Unsigned Senior Spotlight - Justin Tedeschi
Smithfield High School’s senior Justin Tedeschi will graduate as one of the top 20 scorers in program history despite playing only three years of varsity basketball. While "JT" has always been known for his scoring, and specifically his shooting, his high school basketball journey is more accurately described by his continued improvements throughout the years.
It began by building up his body and becoming a more physical player in order to compete at a high-level in the D1 ranks where Smithfield plays. He added 15 pounds of muscle, became a better finisher at the rim, and learned to get his jumper off more quickly.
His coaches attribute that transformation from a spot-up shooter into a complete offensive threat to his "never-ending dedication to the game." He spent the summers attending various camps in order to better his skills and expand his game while playing his entire AAU career for the Rhode Island Magic.
By the Numbers
Height/Weight: 6'0", 170lbs
Position: PG/SG
Season Stats: 16ppg (scored in double figures in 21 of 24 games), 4.0rpg, 3.6apg, 2.3spg,
Academics: 4.0 GPA, 1190 SAT *over 20 college credits earned*
Awards & Accolades
* NERR Super 16 1st Team All-Tournament
* 2x RIIL 2nd Team All-Division I
* 2x RIIL All-Academic
* RIBCA-Joe Hassett Sr Scholarship Award
* 900+ varsity points in 3 seasons
* National Honor Society member
Recommendation
"JT has transformed his game to be a complete player with the ability to play at the collegiate level. His hard work personified the inner drive of the 'too small' player who never believed the doubters. He played with a chip on his shoulder right in line with playing for the smallest public school ever in Rhode Island Division 1. One of the most driven players I have coached in 29 years."
– Michael Tartaglia, Head Coach, Smithfield High School
"Justin is a multifaceted guard with a high motor. He is one of the top guards in Rhode Island. His ability to handle the ball and shoot off the catch or bounce will allow him to play at the next level. He has played point for us during the AAU circuit and has competed against the top teams in New England. He is able to control the game and does a great job handling pressure. Justin is also a pure shooter with extended range. He predominantly played on the wing during his high school season and excels coming off screens and using his body to get to the rim. Justin is a fearless competitor and has a fire that you can't teach. In addition, he is a stand out student. The thing that I have been most impressed with over the last 5 years of coaching Justin is his basketball IQ. He is one of the smartest basketball players I have coached. He understands the game from all positions and is a great leader on the court. His knowledge of the game helps him read defenses and see the court in ways that most his age struggle with. I believe that Justin can play at the next level as a 1 or 2 guard and be a great addition to a program."
- Brandon DiPaola, Rhode Island Magic
Scouting Report
He may not be the biggest or most athletic, but Tedeschi has a very mature, almost old-school, type game. He's fundamentally sound in the way that most kids aren't anymore. The soft, fluid release on his jumper from behind the three-point line is easy to see, as too is his complimenting pull-up. But he also has a very good left hand, advanced perimeter footwork with various pivots and jabs, lay-up making ability around the rim, an understanding of how to cut and move without the ball, good court vision and passing skills. And those are the subtleties that make him both unique and also a good fit in the offensive structure that the next level will feature. He's a true combo-guard who can play on or off the ball, has continued to enhance his playmaking skills off the dribble, and has the type of basketball I.Q. and high-motor you would expect from a coach's son.
Video Highlights
Justin Tedeschi