Oregon State Player Profile: JaQuori McLaughlin

JaQuori McLaughlin’s eagerly anticipated debut in a Beaver Uniform is less than a month away. The 6’4, 185 lb. Point Guard from Gig Harbor, Washington, was rated as a consensus 4 star Combo Guard in the 2016 recruiting class. He was ranked as the 69th best player in nation by Rivals. In addition, he was ranked 79th in the nation by Scout and 93rd best player by 247 sports. McLaughlin was also named Mr. Basketball in the state of Washington. This award distinguished him as the best player in the state of Washington for 2016. Below is a video of Wayne Tinkle discussing McLaughlin.

JaQuori’s journey to Oregon State was a wild ride. He originally committed to Oregon State as a Freshman in High School. Former Beaver Head Coach Craig Robinson and McLaughlin formed a bond that started when McLaughlin attended basketball camps at Oregon State led by Robinson. Credit Robinson for opening up the doors for JaQuori’s journey to Oregon State. After McLaughlin heard the news about Robinson’s firing in 2014, he withdrew his commitment to Oregon State. Before his Junior season at Peninsula High School, McLaughlin committed to Washington. He would de-commit from Washington in May 2015. Many Husky fans resented McLaughlin for his decision, which will make the Beavers trip to Seattle this January much more interesting.

Throughout the entire recruiting process, Coach Tinkle never stopped recruiting JaQuori. JaQuori and his family built a relationship with Tinkle and his staff. In addition, JaQuori connected with his future teammates and he commented how Corvallis’s supportive environment was a factor in his decision. He announced his commitment to the Beavers in September of 2015, and signed his Letter of Intent in November of 2015.

The Beaver’s Guard position took a hit during the off-season. After a promising finish to a Freshman season, Point Guard Derrick Bruce decided to transfer. Senior Guard Malcolm Duvivier will not play this season due to personal reasons. Duvivier was set to take over the Point Guard position. Now, it is likely JaQuori will take over at Point. He will be competing with JC transfer Ronnie Stacy at this position. In addition, he has excellent shooting ability to play the 2. He has the skills to be a great player in the PAC 12. Will JaQuori McLauglin make an immediate impact in his first year as a Beaver? He has the talent and ability to excel in his first season at Oregon State.

Head Coach Wayne Tinkle described JaQuori McLaughlin as, “a guy that brings the total package.” He has the size and length to be a great defender, which will help him strive in Tinkle’s system. He has great shooting skills, especially off the dribble. McLauglin can hit the mid-range jumper and the 3pt shot consistently. He has been commended for his feel of the game, and his ball handling skills. Tinkle was also impressed with JaQuori’s pass-first mentality, and the way he distributes the ball.

McLaughlin does need to add muscle to his 185 lb. frame, but that is common among incoming Freshmen. Additionally, he may face some challenges as he adapts to the college game. McLaughlin will stand to benefit by playing with talented teammates such as Tres Tinkle, Stephen Thompson Jr., and Drew Eubanks. Tinkle and his staff will help JaQuori transition into the college game. Below are some highlights of JaQuori McLaughlin.