Julius Avent
"6”8 guard/wing Class of 2026 Bergen Catholic High School/ PSA Cardinals Eybl ig: Juliusavent"
Michigan State
Rankings sourced from 247Sports, ESPN, On3, and Rivals. Learn how we aggregate data →
Scout Report
When a 6-7 power forward can consistently knock down shots from beyond the arc, college coaches take notice fast. Julius Avent has that rare combination of size and shooting touch that makes offensive coordinators start scribbling plays on napkins.
Background
Bergen Catholic has become a pipeline for high-level basketball talent, and Avent represents the latest product of their program in Oradell, New Jersey. The North Jersey basketball scene is competitive and well-coached, giving players like Avent exposure to high-level competition year-round. Bergen Catholic's reputation for developing fundamentally sound big men who can play multiple positions has clearly influenced his development. Growing up in this basketball-rich environment has prepared him for the intensity he'll face at the next level.
Playing Style
Avent plays with a modern power forward skill set that translates perfectly to today's pace-and-space game. His decision-making shows maturity beyond his years, particularly in choosing when to attack the rim versus stepping out for jumpers. He affects winning through efficient offense rather than overwhelming athleticism, making smart reads and rarely forcing bad shots. Defensively, he uses his length well and has solid instincts for help defense, though he's still developing his lateral quickness. His basketball IQ allows him to impact games even when his shot isn't falling. The kid understands spacing and how to make his teammates better by drawing defenders away from the basket.
Strengths
The shooting ability is legitimate and separates him from most players his size at the high school level. His stroke is consistent with good rotation, and he shows confidence pulling the trigger from NBA range. Avent has soft hands around the rim and can finish through contact when he gets good position down low. His fundamentals are rock solid, from footwork to shot preparation, which speaks to quality coaching and his work ethic in skill development.
Areas to Watch
Adding functional strength will be crucial as he faces bigger, more physical competition at the college level. His lateral quickness on defense needs refinement to guard quicker forwards who can put the ball on the floor. Developing a more aggressive mindset attacking the rim would add another dimension to his offensive game and make his outside shooting even more effective.
Player Comparison
There are shades of Ryan Anderson in his game - that same ability to stretch the floor as a big man while maintaining solid fundamentals. Like Anderson, Avent has the shooting touch to play alongside traditional centers or function as a small-ball five in certain lineups. The comparison fits because both players make their living through precision rather than pure athleticism.
Recruitment
With 10 Division I offers already in hand, Avent committed to Michigan State, choosing the Spartans over quality programs like Xavier, Providence, and Penn State. Tom Izzo's track record with developing forwards who can shoot clearly played a role in his decision. The commitment gives Michigan State a versatile piece who can contribute immediately in their system. His ranking at 86 nationally suggests he could be a steal for the Spartans if his shooting continues developing.
Projection
At Michigan State, Avent projects as a solid rotation player who could develop into a starter by his sophomore or junior season. His shooting ability gives him a clear role from day one, and Izzo's system should maximize his skills. Professional basketball isn't out of the question if he continues developing his overall game, particularly overseas where his skill set would be valued.
Updated Apr 29, 2026 · Analysis by PrepRadar Scouting Team
Career Journey
Michigan State
COLLEGE
Bergen Catholic
PREP SCHOOL
Career Highlights
Offers
10
Michigan State
Committed
Chose Michigan State over 9 other offers
Penn State
Xavier
Providence
Seton Hall
Mississippi StateOffers sourced from 247Sports and social media monitoring.
Social Activity
Game 19 Player of the Game @_julius26x. 🏆 #HHClassic https://x.com/HoophallClassic/status/2012923173835071606/video/1
Julius Avent 1,000 point game !!! @PSACardinals @NJHoopRecruit @RealScoutBBall https://x.com/shotbycozy/status/2011816733594558761/video/1
🏀 Avent Milestone Headlines Bergen Catholic Victory! 🏀 Bergen Catholic controlled the action in a matchup of state heavyweights, defeating Christian Brothers Academy 92-75. Michigan State commit Julius Avent scored 23 points and reached 1,000 career points on a late dunk, https://t.co/fGHulHiEOd
NYC Invitational: back at it again 🏀🎶⚡️ https://x.com/PSACardinals/status/1988259189638992249/photo/1
"Julius is one of those hybrid guys...he can defend multiple positions, he can shoot the three...and he's a pretty tough kid." @_julius26x https://t.co/knQEV5H1gm