MidStateHoops.com :: Player Focus: Diante Watkins

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Diante Watkins

Player Focus: Diante Watkins
by Pat Benninger
January 16, 2008

We've often labeled Dion Dixon as the most underrated guard in the city of Chicago, in which, he is. However, the windy city features a possible top fifteen talent who isn't even on the map in the minds of the majority, as they've never heard of him. Fans of Illinois prep hoops, let us introduce to you the state of Illinois' most overlooked player: Diante Watkins.

Watkins is a 5'7" 140 lbs senior at Chicago Hubbard High School. Yes, he is small but his affect on a game is much bigger than his listed height. Diante has been a four year varsity performer but didn't start until this season as he played behind current UAB point guard Aaron Johnson. During his senior campaign, he is averaging over 23 points and 7 assists per contest and is consistently dropping double-doubles. He's ultra quick and a master ball handler who rarely gets it stripped. He's an outstanding passer and a marksman from beyond the arch as well. He's also got great speed. Diante is one of the most skilled players in the state and is very exciting to watch.

Watkins played on the AAU circuit with Fastbreak, where he averaged over 25 points and just under 10 assists per contest. MidStateHoops.com first discovered him at the 2007 17U State Qualifier Tournament, this past April, and he is still consistently putting up monster numbers throughout the winter and spring.

Because of his size, MidStateHoops.com projects Watkins as an impact mid major prospect. He's had a lack of exposure and would be an ABSOLUTE STEAL for any Division I program. He may just be the best senior point guard in the city of Chicago and the second best (after Kevin Dillard) in the Chicagoland Area.