Joel Francisco's take on a trio of NorCal talents

Here's Joel Francisco of ESPN on some NorCal ballers he witnessed at the recent SoCal Hoop Review:

* Marcus Lee (Antioch, Calif./Deer Valley)
2013, PF, 6-foot-9, 200 pounds

Lee, who may remind some of current UNLV redshirt PF Khem Birch, is a sinewy 4-man who can affect the game in a variety of ways. First and foremost, is his ability to change the game with his shot-blocking prowess. He possesses that lethal combination of extreme length and cat-like quickness. His offensive game is raw, but he is an astute passer with a nice feel for the game. If his assertiveness stays consistent and his offensive game develops, he is potentially a top-15 prospect in the class. He claims offers from the entire Pac-12 and Big 12, but he says VCU has been recruiting him the hardest.

* Dakarai Allen (Sacramento, Calif./Sheldon)
2013, SG/WF, 6-4, 175 pounds

Allen is one of the more unique prospects in the country. His jump shot needs consistency, but his length, feel for the game and assertiveness is impressive. He is the ultimate slasher and his knack for locating open teammates off the bounce is notable. In addition, his intangibles (long arms, quick hands and competitiveness) make him a possible lock-down defender at the next level. Most of the Pac-12 is heavily involved.

* Stanford’s Johnny Dawkins should be proud of the improvement of his son 6-5 junior Aubrey Dawkins (Palo Alto, Calif./Palo Alto). He has a deceptive burst to the rim where he can hang in the air, absorb the contact and finish -- not too mention his jump shot is much smoother.