BY ZACH SMART
With a flashy game predicated on a shifty smooth attacking arsenal, a deftness for creating space via his handle, and a knack for using the angles on thorough surges to the rim, Class of 2027 Bronx-bred guard Anderson Diaz has garnered national acclaim this off-season.
The blurrish-quick, left-handed guard is coming off an AAU season in which he secured high major offers from the likes of Syracuse, Providence, UCLA, Illinois, Louisville, and others.
After displaying flashes as a freshman at St. Raymond’s two seasons ago, Diaz transformed his game with a slick passing arsenal and an advanced offensive repertoire which includes a pull-up jumper and perimeter shooting presence.
This was evident on the EYBL circuit, as the 6-foot-1, 160-pound Diaz emerged into a consistent scoring threat while engineering a breakneck attack.
“It was my first time at Peach Jam, so I wanted to make the best of it,” Diaz said.
“I would describe myself as a left handed shooter who facilitates and impacts winning. I really feel like I can get by anyone, that’s my mentality.”
Diaz broke out two seasons ago at St. Raymond’s, playing ahead of his class with clutch shots and extravagant finishes which crescendoed during the Ravens Archdiocesan title and post-season run.
This past year at Lawrence Woodmere Academy on Long Island, Diaz transformed into the focal point.
Diaz will likely know where he will play his junior season rather soon.
“I won’t be returning to Lawrence Woodmere,” Diaz said.
“Right now we are weighing options. Within the next week or so, I should know.”
Diaz said he’s hearing from Louisville, Arkansas, Syracuse, UCLA, and Illinois with the most frequency right now.
While Diaz has spoken with several former players, one memorable Bronx-bred point guard has been a constant presence in his development: Kenny Satterfield.
Satterfield, who starred at now defunct Rice HS and went on to play at Cincinnati and multiple seasons the NBA, has worked with Diaz for two years now.
“He’s my trainer and he makes sure I am in the gym working and doing what I need to be doing,” Diaz said.
