DALTON, Ga. — As Jax Abernathy knows all too well — and it’s something that often causes him to chuckle a bit — looks can be deceiving.
For Abernathy, a 6-foot-4, 180-pound junior guard for Christian Heritage School, his slender frame and smooth stroke immediately invoke thoughts of a classic zone-busting 3-point specialist.
And with a 47% success rate from beyond the arc, Abernathy is every bit a long-range threat, but that’s where the stereotype ends.
Instead of Kyle Korver, think more like Kawhi Leonard.
Abernathy, averaging 29.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.1 assists and nearly four steals per game for the 18-0 Lions, has, according to coach Tyler Watkins, a complete offensive game. Lay off him and he’ll rise up and drain a jumper. Press him and he can use either hand to get to — and finish — at the basket.