Arkansas is historically known for producing some of the best athletes in all the major sports.  2022 G Darrian Ford is molding himself into becoming the next big name out of the state.  The 6’3 G out of Magnolia High in Magnolia, Arkansas is one of the most explosive and electric prospects in the country.  He is a gym who wakes up every morning with the determination to improve in a new area of his game.  His potential ceiling is off the charts and he is will not be satisfied until his name cemented with the top talent nationally.

The term athlete is an understatement in terms of what he brings to the table.  He is almost impossible to guard because of his ultra-quick first step and his ability to get to the paint and finish.  He is naturally left-handed but can handle the ball and finish at ease with either hand.  His range has expanded to deep beyond the three-point line which makes it nearly impossible for defenses to plan against him.  He has the upper body strength to bully smaller guards and create space to get his shot off.  When teams double team, he has great court vision and can easily find open teammates.  He is the most dangerous in the open court where he makes a living off jaw dropping dunks as well as highlight reel level assists.  He shoots it very well from the free throw and is a great decision maker in the half court.  He is always in control of the game and can dictate the pace and flow anytime he is out on the court. 

Defensively he loves the challenge of shutting down the opposing team’s best player.  He is active and puts pressure on guards which causes teams to turn the ball over.  He is great in passing lanes and gets a lot of his steals and easy transition buckets because of this.  Another area on the defensive end where he is good is in his ability to rebound.  His mental toughness and determination allow him to simply outwork his opponents and secure rebounds which leads him to transition baskets when he pushes the tempo.  He is the ultimate package for a combo guard and some of the biggest schools in all the land are making him their top priority for the 2022 recruiting class.  

Coming off a state championship season last year, he was able to grow his list of offers to upwards of 20 schools.  Some of the schools that are making him a top priority are Alabama, Alabama, Arkansas, Baylor, Florida, and Kansas State.  Others that are in the mix are Rice, Houston, Kansas, Oklahoma St, and Texas A&M.  We fully look for this impressive list to only grow over the next 12-18 months as he continues his upward stride in terms of potential on the basketball court.