Frank was the MVP of the 1996 IHSA state championship game as a Sophomore. Da'Monte was no where near that level, as he was primarily thought of as a mid-major prospect at this time last year. He's gotten better and it's possible that he could get to Frank's level, but he just isn't as dominant at the high school level as Frank was. As a college prospect, not being a pure PG also lowers his stock, at least in my eyes.
Frank put together one of the greatest seasons I've ever seen any player put together during the 1997-1998 season. He played all five positions for Manual and single handedly made Manual one of the best teams in the State in spite of the fact that Manual had lost two High Major D1 players and started 5 Guards. He was a McDonald's All-American and Mr. Basketball in the State of Illinois (over Corey Maggette and Quentin Richardson). He averaged 23 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists a game. That's an absurd stat line, even at the High School level.
Frank was clutch and could take over any game at any time. I just don't see that in Da'Monte, yet. I grew up in Peoria and am the same age as Frank, so it's hard for me to say anyone is better than he was. He was already a legend by the time he was a Sophomore in High School.
I liked what I saw Da'Monte do at the Pontiac Holiday Tournament. He is so much more dangerous when he attacks the rim. Until recently, he's just settled for mid-range jumpers, which is ridiculous when you consider how much more and athletic and bigger he is than just about anyone who is guarding him. Against Joliet West and Curie, he was driving to the basket and at least getting to the foul line if he wasn't able to finish.
As a PG, he actually reminds me of a shorter version of Shaun Livingston, at least in the way he brings the ball up the court. He slows the game down, which I'm not really a big fan of. You don't see this when other players for Manual bring the ball up the court.
I admit I haven't seen Damonte Williams play a whole lot, but my initial impression is that he reminds me a bit of Charles Matthews who went to Kentucky. Seems to be more of gamer than Matthews, for all the athleticism I saw from Matthews his potential never seemed to match his production. Damonte is way ahead of Glynn Watson (st joes) at same stage and not the true PG or shooter that Brunson was. But Damonte is bigger and athletic than Brunson as well.
For those who say Damonte is taller, more athletic, and better shot than Frank. Why do you still say he is not at the same level Frank was at high school. I agree, I've seen Damonte do some things athletically I don't recall Frank being able to do (dunk with ease). One thing I do recall of Frank was his strength, passing ability, and intangibles (winner).
