Jerry Easter II demonstrates high-level guard abilities during Jordan Brand Classic

All-star-type events, such as the Jordan Brand Classic, can have a different feel depending on the players who are involved. During the boy's version of the game, there were many up-and-down possessions that focused more on the transition game and making a highlight reel.

For a lot of it, though, the competitiveness took over, and with it, the defensive intensity. In these games, if someone gives up an easy bucket, it isn't necessarily something worth worrying about or overanalyzing. When it's clear that both sides are giving it their all, however, something like this becomes a great chance to evaluate similar talent.

USC signee Jerry Easter II looked every bit deserving of the recognition, as he had good offensive moments when the defensive switch was flipped on for both teams. In what ended up being a close game down the stretch, he did his part to keep Team Flight in it, as his team would go on to lose to Team Air 141-124. 

According to the broadcast, the rosters agreed to step it up during the second half, and they gave fans a fun finish to the Jordan Brand Classic. The USC signee showed what he'll bring to the Trojan program as a guard who can be aggressive and get his own shot while also looking to set up his teammates and run the offense.

Creative, team-first backcourt player

His ability to handle and win his matchup put pressure on the defense and opened up the court for his teammates. With Easter's head up, he did a nice job of keeping his head up and finding the right option within the half-court set. Maybe it was a coincidence, maybe it was in part influenced and spearheaded by him, but the time he was on the court gave a good, early glimpse of what he can bring to coach Eric Musselman's program.

Between him and Alijah Arenas, USC has two extremely talented freshmen who have a solid basketball foundation and will look to provide immediate high-impact minutes for the Trojans this fall.