Eugene Manning isn't the top recruit in his state, let alone the nation. Yet for one fleeting weekend earlier this offseason, Manning may have been one of the best point guards in America.
Case in point: The crossover you see at the start of the video above.
Manning, a rising senior at Racine (Wis.) JI Case High, dropped an unsuspecting defender from Rock Island (Ill.) High with a wicked crossover straight out of the Allen Iverson repertoire during a game at the ScoutsFocus Minnesota showcase. In the process, Manning stole the point guard show from Tyus Jones, the Apple Valley (Minn.) High prospect who is widely considered one of the top-1o overall prospects in the Class of 2013.
The open court move was so overwhelming that afterward Manning could have coasted all the way in for a layup or easy running jumper. Instead, Manning pulled up for an elbow jumper at the free throw line, draining it as coolly as if he had ice in his veins.
Naturally, that wasn't Manning's only highlight of the multi-game event. Rather, Manning spent the time tearing apart defenses with long pinpoint passes and incisive drives.
Still, he hasn't hit the recruiting radar of any significant programs. That may change in the days to come. If it does, Manning may serve as the latest litmus test in the power of one magical, viral highlight.
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