Catching Up with Top PG in TN's 2022 Class BJ Edwards

Brian Edwards Jr. is one of the top point guards in the nation in the class of 2022. Recently named Tennessee Mr. Basketball, BJ is one of the hottest prospects holding offers from Vanderbilt, Wake Forest, Virginia Tech, Tennessee, Auburn, Florida, Cincinnati, Georgetown, South Carolina, and more. BJ has taken unofficial visits to Cincinnati, Tennessee, and Vanderbilt recently. BJ won the state title for Knoxville Catholic this year alongside Vanderbilt commit and B-Maze teammate Akeem Odusipe. During his sophomore season, BJ averaged over 19 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds. BJ has always been a standout in Big Shots tournaments and on the circuit for B-Maze Elite UAA.

We had a chance to catch up with BJ Edwards to hear about his recruitment, what he is looking for in a school and his development as a player.

How has the recruiting process been and which schools are showing you the most interest?

BJ: The recruiting process has been very fun and exciting. The schools that are showing the most interest as of now are Tennessee, Virginia Tech, Vanderbilt and Cincinnati (in no order).

What qualities are you looking for in your potential college coach and program? 

BJ: Qualities I’m looking for are a coach that is going to push me, stay on me, and make sure I work hard. A program that makes me feel like family.

How would you describe your game on the court? 

BJ: My game on the court is all around. I like to play defense, press up on guards, and try to get steals for fast-break opportunities. I can also shoot the 3, mid-range, and attack. I’m an all-around guy, can do it all, and bring something different every time I’m on the court.

In what areas of your game would you like to improve as you prepare for the next level? 

BJ: Areas I would like to improve in is just being more of a vocal leader and my shot.

Who is your favorite player to study and why?

BJ: I don’t have a favorite player to study. I just watch several guys, for instance, defensive wise Ashton Hagans I love his game and how he puts pressure on the ball and offensively I study John Wall I like his speed and change of pace.

What was your favorite memory from your state championship run?

BJ: My favorite memory of my state championship run was just seeing the look on my teammate's face after we had won. This was what we worked on all season and I had to lead my team through the way I feel like it was a big task and I’m glad my team and I could do it.

You starred for BMaze Elite over the years how does it feel to be mentored by Bobby Maze?

BJ: Bobby Maze is a very important man in my life, he has helped me through so much. He is the reason why I sat down and told myself that I’m actually going to go as far as I can with basketball. Having him as a mentor and with him knowing the game so much I soak in as much as possible because I know he has played on the college level and he knows what it takes so it’s great to have someone like him.

We look forward to keeping up with BJ and continuing to follow his progression as a very talented player in TN’s 2022 class.