michael_gilchrist

St. Patrick's small forward Michael Gilchrist is the latest basketball prodigy to come out of the talent-rich area of New Jersey. Under coach Kevin Boyle, the Celtics have been a national powerhouse for nearly 20 years and the storied St. Patrick's program has produced the likes of Derrick Caracter (Louisville), Samuel Dalambert (Philadelphia 76ers), Corey Fisher (Villanova), Al Harrington (New York Knicks) and Mike Nardi (Villanova).

Gilchrist as been on the national radar for some time now. The 6-foot-7 small forward raised more eyebrows last summer, more than holding his own against much older players at the Lebron James Skills Academy in Akron. A versatile slasher with elite athleticism, Gilchrist uses his 7-foot-1 wingspan to dominate the glass and block shots as well.

Just like everyone else it seems, Gilchrist was tuned in when Calipari left Memphis to take over the reigns at Kentucky. But Gilchrist, who had been high on Memphis, has been largely unaffected according to his mother, Cindy.

"We hadn't really discussed it honestly," Gilchrist said. "We all watched ESPN when the news was breaking, but we haven't talked about it at all. We're happy for Coach Cal, but we don't really feel any way one way or the other."

Other than Calipari and his style of play, Gilchrist said there are other reasons her son is drawn to the Memphis program.

"He's still high on Memphis," Gilchrist said. "Dajuan Wagner is very close to my family. He just identified with Memphis because of Coach Cal and Dajuan. We've never been contacted by (Kentucky). We're still far from the decisoin making process."

Gilchrist said that outside of his rare basketball talent, her son is just the typcial high school sophomore.

"He's just a normal kid," Gilchrist said. "He's having a good time. He doesnt view basketball the way others do. He's just focused on working hard and getting better. That's all that's on his mind honestly."

Scouts, Inc. Evaluation

February, 2009: Gilchrist affects the game in number of positive ways. Although he did not have great scoring numbers (Nike Super 6 Invitational) he seems to find a way to make his presence felt on the court at all times. Gilchrist is a terrific rebounder on both ends. He is quick to the ball, has great timing and excellent hands. He has long arms and does a great job of using his length to rebound over or around opponents. He is very athletic and finishes above the rim in transition and on all clear paths to the rim in the half court. He scores with mid range jumpers off the catch, drop off passes created by guard penetration and offensive glass tip ins. Gilchrist is a excellent shot blocker from the weak side in the half court and will run down an opponent in transition. Gilchrist is also a good interior passer from the high post and an improved ball handler when he is driving from the wing or attacking in the open court. He must add strength and work to become a consistent perimeter shooter because at times he plays more like a power forward than a small forward. Gilchrist is a high energy defender that has quick hands and active feet. He can defend both wing positions with ease. It will be fun watching this young gifted athlete continue to develop.