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Gonzaga's 2017 recruiting class is set for the time being, so it's time we turn our eye further down the line. Kamaka Hepa, whom we previously mentioned as a prime 2018 target, debuted at #36 in ESPN's Top 60 for the 2018 recruiting class. Hepa is also ranked at #34 in the 2018 class by 247sports.
ESPN's analysis of Hepa requires an Insider subscription, but here's a tidbit of what their scouting report says about his strengths and weaknesses:
Strengths: Hepa is a terrific looking 4-man for the next level. He has ideal length, is a good athlete, and his skill and savvy are quite advanced for a sophomore. He can score with his back to the basket, but appears to be more comfortable facing up his defender. He has a soft touch out to 17-feet, but he gets most of his points crashing the offensive glass.
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Weaknesses: Hepa needs to continue to improve his inside-out game. His face-up skills are on the come, but he needs to improve his triple threat game (1st step, jab step, up-fakes, etc.) as well as his post moves.
Hepa got rave reviews at this summer's Pangos All-American camp where he demonstrated a high basketball IQ and a polished all-around skill set upon which he can continue to build his game. Hepa has significantly expanded his list of offers since moving from Alaska to Portland and hitting the Nike EYBL circuit. He reportedly now holds offers from Miami, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Tulane, Utah and Wichita State in addition the mid-major offers he received back in April.
Gonzaga has been interested in Hepa for some time now, and Mark Few watched him play in person at the Nike EYBL tournament in Indianapolis at the end of April. With Hepa's profile rising heading into his junior season, look for the Zags to try and get him on campus for a visit soon.