Cal Men's Hoops Signs Two In-State Backcourt Prospects
Top-Rated Recruits Join Golden Bears
The California Golden Bears men's basketball program has added two of the top high school recruits in the state with the signings of Jalen Celestine and Devin Askew. Both players are consensus four-star prospects and are expected to make an immediate impact on the team.
Jalen Celestine
Celestine is a 6'7" wing from Moreau Catholic High School in Hayward, California. He is ranked as the No. 34 overall prospect in the 2023 class by ESPN and is known for his athleticism, versatility, and shooting ability.
Celestine averaged 22.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game as a senior at Moreau Catholic. He led his team to a 25-7 record and a berth in the CIF Northern California Open Division semifinals.
Devin Askew
Askew is a 6'3" point guard from Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, California. He is ranked as the No. 41 overall prospect in the 2023 class by 247Sports and is known for his ball-handling skills, court vision, and leadership.
Askew averaged 18.0 points, 6.0 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game as a senior at Mater Dei. He led his team to a 29-5 record and a berth in the CIF Southern California Open Division semifinals.
Impact on Cal
The addition of Celestine and Askew gives Cal a much-needed boost in the backcourt. The Golden Bears struggled with turnovers and outside shooting last season, and these two players should help to address those issues.
Celestine is a versatile wing who can play multiple positions. He is a good athlete with a high basketball IQ. Askew is a skilled point guard who can run an offense and create for others.
Both players are expected to compete for starting roles next season. They will join a young and talented Cal team that is looking to make a run at the NCAA Tournament.