2018-19 Villanova Basketball Player Preview: Jahvon Quinerly

Look out college basketball world. The Main Line just got a little more Jelly.

Villanova’s top-ranked recruit, Jahvon Quinerly, is no stranger to crossovers and finesse. The five-star’s sharp visibility and keen sense of the game allows him to orchestrate elite offenses and dismantle defenses. The true freshman is expected to impact the Wildcats’ backcourt immediately after the departures of Player of the Year, Jalen Brunson, and Big East Sixth Man of the Year, Donte Divincenzo.

The 26th overall prospect, by ESPN’s metrics, found his way to Villanova a little less conventionally than some of his fellow classmates. Originally intending on playing for the University of Arizona, Quinerly found himself amidst the NCAA’s FBI probe which caused him to decommit from the university last October. He signed an official letter of intent to play for Jay Wright’s squad in April of this year.

Profile and Stats: Jahvon Quinerly (FR)

Hometown: Hackensack, NJ | Highschool: Hudson Catholic | Height: 6’1” | Weight: 175

Player Preview

While Wright traditionally runs with his veterans, the Wildcats will need to use their young talent if they are going to make a run at back-to-back championships. With senior leadership from captains Phil Booth and Eric Paschall, Quinerly should have some solid pieces around him to help him facilitate the offense along with backcourt mate Collin Gillespie. Booth may share some of the ball handling early on, but as the season progresses the 6’1” guard should take over running the offense.

The McDonald’s All American boasts an impressive resume to go along with his confidence on and off the ball. His ability to create shots for his teammates as well as himself make him an asset to Villanova’s offense. With an improved jump shot, Quinerly should have no issues scoring points for the blue and white. He will, however, need to show Wright that he can be trusted on both ends of the floor. An average defender, Quinerly could use some improvement on his man-to-man and help defense skills. In a Wildcats program that prides itself on toughness, he will need to step up.

Best Case Scenario: Quinerly becomes the next true freshman to command Wright’s offense. He adjusts well into the Wildcats’ regime and makes an immediate impact. Villanova fans can be assured that he’ll add a little jelly, making the Wildcat’s more explosive on offense.

Worst Case Scenario: Phil Booth and Collin Gillespie eat into the point guard responsibilities while Quinerly take time to adjust to the pace and toughness of the college game. While he shows flashes of brilliance, he struggles with consistency.