2027 Daniel Abass looks to make impact at DeMatha as a freshman

October 14, 2023 by Colby Giacubeno

DeMatha Catholic boasts one of the most impressive freshmen classes in the country as they welcome five extremely talented prospects who all project somewhere in the MM-HM level. Included in that group is 2027 Daniel Abass, a 6-foot-7 combo forward who already shows promise due to his relentless competitive motor.

“If I had to describe my game that first things that I like to pride myself on is being hard-working,” Abass told MADE Hoops. “I have a strong motor. I’m a defense-first type of guy, for sure. I want to rebound and push the ball and get my teammates involved. I’ll find other ways to get involved from there.”

Head coach Mike Jones is known for playing an up-tempo system that includes pressing the full length of the floor and reaching deep into his bench to sustain this style. The starting lineup is far from being set, but Abass has a good idea of what is expected early on.

“Coach Jones knows what I can do, so he just wants me to play my game. Drive into the defense to kick-out for others, bring energy to the floor and defend at all levels.”

Abass has true grab-and-go skill that for a player his age and size immediately catches your eye. Although he has mentioned a concentration on getting others involved early on in this article, he can also go the length of the floor and finish strong at the rim.

“I’ve always played the game really hard. That’s just me. I play with a lot of heart.”

Abass was a key cog for Team Durant throughout his middle school years.

“Team Durant is a great program. They really helped me with a lot of different things in my game. Offensively, they helped me with my mid-range and stepping into my three-point shot.”

Developing more of his perimeter skills is a focus for Abass going forward in order to be a true wing. Things like handling the ball with more control and becoming a more consistent shooter are the next steps in his mind.

“Paolo Banchero and Jayson Tatum are guys that I study a lot. Also Joel Embiiid just because I feel like he is always playing so hard.”

Obviously Abass’ recruitment is in the infant stages, but throughout fall workouts, his abilities have him on the radars of college coaches.

Maryland, Delaware and Mount St. Mary’s have all expressed early interest.

“Michigan and UConn have been dream schools of mine. Michigan because Dug McDaniel went there and I always watched him play at Paul VI. I like head coach Juwan Howard. UConn because Isaiah Abraham is going there and I look up to his game, too. Also, Jordan Hawkins from Team Durant went there and won a National Championship. I like how they develop their players.”

Abass is currently ranked as the No. 106 player in the 2027 rankings. Those will continue to take shape as prospects hit points within their development over the next couple of years, but I’d be willing to bet that Abass makes a strong rise as he proves himself with the Stags this season.

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