I do not have the knowledge of the 2010 class as I do for the 2011 and 2012 classes. The 2010 class has seen a lot of top players transfer to prep schools. I feel confident in my rankings although I haven't seen a couple of players that would be ranked if I had seen them play in person.
H=High major H- = High major Stretch
M+ = Mid-major, higher possibly, M=Mid-major, M- =Mid-major stretch
L+ = Low major, higher possibly, L= Low-major, L- = Low-major stretch
D2=Division 2/NAIA /High Level D3
D3=Division 3
1. Deshaun Thomas 6’7 Bishop Luers H
2. Terone Johnson 6’3 North Central H-
3. Chrishawn Hopkins 6’2 Manual H-
4. Travis Carrol 6’8 Danville H-
5. Jesse Berry 6’1 Lafayette Jeff H-
6. Erik Fromm 6’8 Bloomington South M+
7. Ethan Jacobs 7’0 Tipton H-
8. Russell Byrd 6’7 Blackhawk Christian M+
9. Donnie Hale 6’7 New Albany M+
10. Tyrae Robinson 6’1 Bowman Academy M
11. Jordan Manual 6’8 Howe M+
12. Khristian Smith 6’3 Pike M
13. Jack Isenbarger 6’3 Zionsville M
14. Daniel Turner 6’6 Mount Vernon M
15. P.J. Hubbert 6’5 Mount Vernon M
16. Jake Kitchell 6’8 South Central M-
17. LaTroy Taylor 6’2 Gary Wallace M-
18. Michael Harris 6’1 East Chicago L+
19. Julian Boatner 6’3 Bloomington North L+
20. Kegan Clark 6’4 Jeffersonville L+
21. Brandon Demmings 6’2 Washington L+
22. Chris Welker 6’4 Zionsville L
23. Andre Hampton 6’1 Howe L
24. DeArmond Davis 6’6 Mount Vernon L
25. Christopher Bond 6’4 Bowman L
26. Greg Miller 6’6 North Miami L-
27. Mitchell Patton 6’9 South Knox
28. Mike Kibiloski 6’7 Elkhart Memorial L-
29. Neal Beshears 6’6 Winchester M
30. Robert Kitzinger 6’6 Carmel L
31. Jake Browne 6’6 Hamilton Southeastern D2
32. Thomas Anderson 6’7 Terre Haute North L-
33. Andrew Rudakas 6’5 Wheeler L-
34. Scott Lascowski 6’4 Carmel L-
35. John Michael Jarvis - Terre Haute South L
36. Roddy Richardson 6’2 Lafayette Jeff L-
37. Leland Brown 6’4 Noblesville L-
38. Brad Elam 5’10 Ben Davis L-
39. Jordan Weidner 6’1 Danville L-
40. Willie Rhodes 6’2 Warren Central D2
41. KeVan Ford 5’11 Bowman D2
42. Cyllk Joesph 5’11 Bowman D2
43. Brad Karp 6’2 Valparaiso D2
44. Parker Staufer 6’6 Southridge L-
45. Justin Gill 6’6 Munster D2
46. Kyle Ritz 6’0 Munster D2
47. Zach Starr 6’1 Hamilton Southeastern D2
48. Trip McFall 6’3 North Central D2
49. Jeff Sustarcic 6’1 Union County D2
50. Aaron Bluitt 6’1 North Central D2
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
New Rankings
New rankings for 2010, 2011, and 2012 will be posted after the New Year holiday. I will then update them again after the high school season is complete before the AAU season starts.
I'm working on a preliminary 2013 rankings list so if you know any that I should look for leave me a comment.
The basketball season is going quickly (too quickly) and I'm trying to make it to as many big games as possible. I've added a good amount of players to my database and many will make their debut on my rankings when they come out.
Happy Holiday! I hope everyone has a safe holiday season!
I'm working on a preliminary 2013 rankings list so if you know any that I should look for leave me a comment.
The basketball season is going quickly (too quickly) and I'm trying to make it to as many big games as possible. I've added a good amount of players to my database and many will make their debut on my rankings when they come out.
Happy Holiday! I hope everyone has a safe holiday season!
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
IPSAC Midwest Basketball Challenge-Detroit Country Day/Luers
The main event of the IPSAC Midwest Basketball Challenge...Detroit Country Day against Fort Wayne Bishop Luers. Ray McCallum against Deshaun Thomas. Two potential All-Americans.
Well, the team match-up didn't live up to the hype. Ray McCallum certainly did. McCallum finished with 36 points including 3 dunks that made the crowd go crazy. He was impressive. Great quickness, crafty moves, superb shooting from the outside, tough rebounds, strong defense. McCallum was good in every phase of the game. He should definitely be an All-American candidate.
Deshaun Thomas was met with double and triple teams right from the tip. Detroit Country Day didn't let him catch the ball and if he did then they made sure he had no choice but to pass. DCD decided to make another Luers player beat them other than Thomas. No Luers player was able to step up.
DCD stretched their lead to 30 points in the third quarter. I believe the final margain was 17 points. Thomas did most of his damage in the final minutes of the third quarter and in the fourth quarter. He ended with 33 points by my count.
Ken Mullen 5'9 junior point guard impressed me with his quickness. He was able to get around DCD defenders and into the lane most of the night. He finished with 22 points on 9-12 shooting. He never looked for his outside shot until the game was decided. He is probably a stretch for mid-majors, but definitely is a D1 player.
Amir Williams 6'10 junior center controlled the paint and boards for Detroit Country Day. He was really impressive with his outlet passes. He started most fast breaks for DCD. He allowed the guards to leak out and he could hit them on the move with a 40 foot outlet pass. I had him down for 10 points and 9 rebounds.
Well, the team match-up didn't live up to the hype. Ray McCallum certainly did. McCallum finished with 36 points including 3 dunks that made the crowd go crazy. He was impressive. Great quickness, crafty moves, superb shooting from the outside, tough rebounds, strong defense. McCallum was good in every phase of the game. He should definitely be an All-American candidate.
Deshaun Thomas was met with double and triple teams right from the tip. Detroit Country Day didn't let him catch the ball and if he did then they made sure he had no choice but to pass. DCD decided to make another Luers player beat them other than Thomas. No Luers player was able to step up.
DCD stretched their lead to 30 points in the third quarter. I believe the final margain was 17 points. Thomas did most of his damage in the final minutes of the third quarter and in the fourth quarter. He ended with 33 points by my count.
Ken Mullen 5'9 junior point guard impressed me with his quickness. He was able to get around DCD defenders and into the lane most of the night. He finished with 22 points on 9-12 shooting. He never looked for his outside shot until the game was decided. He is probably a stretch for mid-majors, but definitely is a D1 player.
Amir Williams 6'10 junior center controlled the paint and boards for Detroit Country Day. He was really impressive with his outlet passes. He started most fast breaks for DCD. He allowed the guards to leak out and he could hit them on the move with a 40 foot outlet pass. I had him down for 10 points and 9 rebounds.
IPSAC Midwest Basketball Challenge-Munster/Cathedral
The Munster vs. Indianapolis Cathedral game was the one I looked forward to the most. I wanted to see how the much hyped Collin Hartman was and I wanted to see how good Munster was when they played outside of the region. Well, both passed with flying colors. Munster was impressive as was Hartman.
Munster jumped out early by hitting 3's against Cathedral's zone. When I say Munster I should say Brian Stolarz as he went 4-4 from 3 in the first quarter. Munster led 17-7 after the first and 29-15 at the half. It always seemed like Munster was up by more since their defense was so good. Munster plays really hard and they are physical. A guy in front of me said something that was very true..."if you are going to beat Munster you are going to have to be tougher than they are." Not many teams can match Munster's toughness.
Collin Hartman is counted on to do a lot for Cathedral. They have totally rebuilt from last year's team. Hartman is very good, but he can't carry them to wins against teams like Munster. His shooting form is great and he cuts really hard. Most seniors don't cut as well as he does. He handles the ball very well and can lead a fast break. Once he adds muscle he will be very tough to handle.
Joe Crisman 6'4 junior guard is more of a small forward right now. He can shoot it, strong, rebounds, a good defender. He doesn't handle the ball to well right now. It also looked shaky when he was dribbling like he could lose control at anytime. In order to be a D1 player he will have to tighten that up immensely as well as working on getting his shot off quicker. It seemed like it took him a decent amount of time to get off his shot.
Brian Stolarz 6'4 junior small forward had the fast start and didn't do much after the first quarter. If he can shoot it like he did against Cathedral than he can play at the mid-major level. He is strong, a good rebounder, and tough. He doesn't have guard like handles though and he is still not a great defender although it seems like he is making a great effort to get better defensively. I still think he is a low-major player unless he becomes a lights out consistent shooter.
Kyle Ritz 6'1 senior point guard is a true point guard if you will. He is Munster's leader, he is the floor general. He is very sure with the ball and has very good court vision. He did not look for his shot at all. I only had him down for two shot attempts. I think he would be a good NAIA point guard. He can score if he needs to. I think he just understands his role as the distributor on a good team.
Kevin Owens 6'9 senior center had some solid post moves. Owens could probably be a very good player if he was more aggressive and assertive. It seems like he has the physical tools to be very good.
Munster jumped out early by hitting 3's against Cathedral's zone. When I say Munster I should say Brian Stolarz as he went 4-4 from 3 in the first quarter. Munster led 17-7 after the first and 29-15 at the half. It always seemed like Munster was up by more since their defense was so good. Munster plays really hard and they are physical. A guy in front of me said something that was very true..."if you are going to beat Munster you are going to have to be tougher than they are." Not many teams can match Munster's toughness.
Collin Hartman is counted on to do a lot for Cathedral. They have totally rebuilt from last year's team. Hartman is very good, but he can't carry them to wins against teams like Munster. His shooting form is great and he cuts really hard. Most seniors don't cut as well as he does. He handles the ball very well and can lead a fast break. Once he adds muscle he will be very tough to handle.
Joe Crisman 6'4 junior guard is more of a small forward right now. He can shoot it, strong, rebounds, a good defender. He doesn't handle the ball to well right now. It also looked shaky when he was dribbling like he could lose control at anytime. In order to be a D1 player he will have to tighten that up immensely as well as working on getting his shot off quicker. It seemed like it took him a decent amount of time to get off his shot.
Brian Stolarz 6'4 junior small forward had the fast start and didn't do much after the first quarter. If he can shoot it like he did against Cathedral than he can play at the mid-major level. He is strong, a good rebounder, and tough. He doesn't have guard like handles though and he is still not a great defender although it seems like he is making a great effort to get better defensively. I still think he is a low-major player unless he becomes a lights out consistent shooter.
Kyle Ritz 6'1 senior point guard is a true point guard if you will. He is Munster's leader, he is the floor general. He is very sure with the ball and has very good court vision. He did not look for his shot at all. I only had him down for two shot attempts. I think he would be a good NAIA point guard. He can score if he needs to. I think he just understands his role as the distributor on a good team.
Kevin Owens 6'9 senior center had some solid post moves. Owens could probably be a very good player if he was more aggressive and assertive. It seems like he has the physical tools to be very good.
IPSAC Midwest Basketball Challenge-Howe/ECC
The Howe/East Chicago Central game was the closest game of the day. Early it looked like Howe was going to run away with it. Howe let ECC back into the game during the 2nd quarter though and it was back and forth from there.
PJ Boutte scored a go ahead basket with around 30 seconds left in the game. ECC attacked and Howe fouled Anthony Williams. Williams,who was hot most of the day, knocked down both free-throws to give ECC a one point lead. ECC came out of the time-out in a 2-2-1 press and Howe throw right over the top to Jordan Manuel. Manuel drove to the hoop and was unsuccessful on this attempt. After many tips and a scramble later the game was over. ECC escaped with a 62-61 victory.
Anthony Williams 6'1 junior forward for ECC impressed me. I had never heard of him before but he made a lot of big shots for the Cardinals. He was a tough defender and scrappy player all game. I hope to see him more in the future.
Michael Harris 6'3 senior guard was only 5-11 from the field, but he easily could have been 8-11. He made numerous nice plays and great moves. He hit the open shot and was the leader for ECC. He is definitely a D1 player...how high is the question though. I think he could play major minutes early for most mid-majors depending on the system.
Isiah Hill 6'10 junior center has lost a lot of weight and has gained a lot of mobility from it. He still has some work to be done in the conditioning department, but he has made great strides. I had him down for 10 points and 5 rebounds. He could be a very good post for mid-majors if he continues to lose weight. As of right now, he is a low-major prospect.
Giovantae Hazelett 6'7 senior forward showed glimpses of a very good player. He might only be 6'5 or 6'6 though. He had some athletic finishes while showing good free-throw form going 4-4 so he has a base to develop. He appears to be more of a D2 type of player, but this is the first time I have seen him.
Jordan Manuel 6'8 senior wing is committed to Detroit. He didn't play until the 4th quarter. He came in cold to start the 4th quarter with the game tied. I'm not sure that is a great situation to put a kid into. Even if he sat out for discpline reasons I think I might have just held him out the whole game or gotten him in during the 3rd quarter. He could be a big-time player for Detroit if he gets after it...that is a big if though.
PJ Boutte 5'9 junior point guard is also committed to Detroit. He was questionable due to spraining his ankle last week. He played major minutes though. I had him with the stat line of 1-4 from 2pt, 1-4 from 3pt, 3-6 from the free-throw line with 1 assist to go along with 4 turnovers.
PJ Boutte scored a go ahead basket with around 30 seconds left in the game. ECC attacked and Howe fouled Anthony Williams. Williams,who was hot most of the day, knocked down both free-throws to give ECC a one point lead. ECC came out of the time-out in a 2-2-1 press and Howe throw right over the top to Jordan Manuel. Manuel drove to the hoop and was unsuccessful on this attempt. After many tips and a scramble later the game was over. ECC escaped with a 62-61 victory.
Anthony Williams 6'1 junior forward for ECC impressed me. I had never heard of him before but he made a lot of big shots for the Cardinals. He was a tough defender and scrappy player all game. I hope to see him more in the future.
Michael Harris 6'3 senior guard was only 5-11 from the field, but he easily could have been 8-11. He made numerous nice plays and great moves. He hit the open shot and was the leader for ECC. He is definitely a D1 player...how high is the question though. I think he could play major minutes early for most mid-majors depending on the system.
Isiah Hill 6'10 junior center has lost a lot of weight and has gained a lot of mobility from it. He still has some work to be done in the conditioning department, but he has made great strides. I had him down for 10 points and 5 rebounds. He could be a very good post for mid-majors if he continues to lose weight. As of right now, he is a low-major prospect.
Giovantae Hazelett 6'7 senior forward showed glimpses of a very good player. He might only be 6'5 or 6'6 though. He had some athletic finishes while showing good free-throw form going 4-4 so he has a base to develop. He appears to be more of a D2 type of player, but this is the first time I have seen him.
Jordan Manuel 6'8 senior wing is committed to Detroit. He didn't play until the 4th quarter. He came in cold to start the 4th quarter with the game tied. I'm not sure that is a great situation to put a kid into. Even if he sat out for discpline reasons I think I might have just held him out the whole game or gotten him in during the 3rd quarter. He could be a big-time player for Detroit if he gets after it...that is a big if though.
PJ Boutte 5'9 junior point guard is also committed to Detroit. He was questionable due to spraining his ankle last week. He played major minutes though. I had him with the stat line of 1-4 from 2pt, 1-4 from 3pt, 3-6 from the free-throw line with 1 assist to go along with 4 turnovers.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
IPSAC Midwest Basketball Challenge-Bowman/Broad Ripple
The Bowman Academy/Broad Ripple game was fast paced from the start. Both teams were pushing the ball, creating turnovers, forcing passes, and looking to attack the rim. Bowman led 27-19 after one period to give you an idea of the pace.
In the second quarter, Bowman increased the gap. Cyllk Joesph had a big first half. Joesph had a couple of 3's and a couple of dunks. Not to be out done, Chris Bond also had great success around the rim including a monster dunk. Bowman was up 14 at the halftime break.
The second half was mainly the Tyrae Robinson show. Robinson got to the rim nearly anytime he wanted. Most of the time he would finish the basket and the rest of the time he found open teammates for easy baskets. Robinson ended with 18 points on 6-10 shooting from 2point range and 2-4 from 3.
The game became a true blow out in the third. DeJuan Marrero dominated the paint getting multiple blocks and clearing every rebound. Marrero ended the night with 15 points and 14 rebounds. I did not keep track of his blocks.
In the fourth quarter, Broad Ripple made the game respectable. Steven Jamison started to be really aggressive and capitalized on it. He ended the night with 27 points. Ron Patterson was quiet for most of the night other than 2 big first half dunks. Patterson finished with 16 points.
Tyrae Robinson 6'1 point guard might have turned the most heads of college recruiters. Robinson did a little bit of everything. He showed his quickness and explosiveness getting to the basket. He consistently made the correct play while leading his team. Robinson also displayed a smooth jumper. Robinson looks like a solid mid-major point guard.
DeJuan Marreo 6'6 small forward is the most hyped player for Bowman. He is and will be a very good high school player. I'm not sure how that will translate to the next level for him. At the high major level, he will have to be a 3 and I'm not sure he has those skills in order to handle the ball, shoot from the perimeter, or the quickness to guard a small forward in the Big Ten for instance. He's not big enough to be a power forward unless he grows which I think is unlikely. I think he projects to be a very good mid-major player, but would struggle in the major conferences.
Cyllk Joesph 5'11 shooting guard was 3-6 from 3 and 2-2 from 2 including a dunk off a nice alley-opp. His shooting form looked really good...smooth and quick. He didn't handle the ball very much because Robinson handled those duties. He might be an undersized shooting guard but he can make up for that with his athleticism.
Christopher Bond 6'4 forward showed great atleticism and ability to finish in the paint. He has great springs and very good lateral quickness. He is more of a power forward, but he can handle the ball a little bit and is quick enough to guard a small forward at the mid-major level. He would be really good at the low-major level.
Steven Jamison 6'7 small forward was the main bright spot for Broad Ripple. He is a legit 6'5 and maybe 6'6. He is a streaky outside shooter and he will take some shots that leave a lot to be desired. He is long and is a good finisher especially above the rim. I see Jamison as a solid mid-major prospect. I think he would be really good in a style like IUPUI's.
Ron Patterson 6'3 shooting guard is a big time player. Today was not his best game though. In the first half, he wasn't real aggressive looking for his shot although he had 2 dunks including 1 over the top of a Bowman player. He is explosive off the floor while also being a good shooter from the outside. I saw him play in a D1 open gym this year that featured NBA players and he fit right in.
Aaron Payne 6'1 point guard is a promising young player for Broad Ripple. He struggled with decision making against the Bowman pressure but a lot of good senior guards would struggle too. He did have 6 points on 3-6 shooting. He got to the rim a few times and had shots rim out.
In the second quarter, Bowman increased the gap. Cyllk Joesph had a big first half. Joesph had a couple of 3's and a couple of dunks. Not to be out done, Chris Bond also had great success around the rim including a monster dunk. Bowman was up 14 at the halftime break.
The second half was mainly the Tyrae Robinson show. Robinson got to the rim nearly anytime he wanted. Most of the time he would finish the basket and the rest of the time he found open teammates for easy baskets. Robinson ended with 18 points on 6-10 shooting from 2point range and 2-4 from 3.
The game became a true blow out in the third. DeJuan Marrero dominated the paint getting multiple blocks and clearing every rebound. Marrero ended the night with 15 points and 14 rebounds. I did not keep track of his blocks.
In the fourth quarter, Broad Ripple made the game respectable. Steven Jamison started to be really aggressive and capitalized on it. He ended the night with 27 points. Ron Patterson was quiet for most of the night other than 2 big first half dunks. Patterson finished with 16 points.
Tyrae Robinson 6'1 point guard might have turned the most heads of college recruiters. Robinson did a little bit of everything. He showed his quickness and explosiveness getting to the basket. He consistently made the correct play while leading his team. Robinson also displayed a smooth jumper. Robinson looks like a solid mid-major point guard.
DeJuan Marreo 6'6 small forward is the most hyped player for Bowman. He is and will be a very good high school player. I'm not sure how that will translate to the next level for him. At the high major level, he will have to be a 3 and I'm not sure he has those skills in order to handle the ball, shoot from the perimeter, or the quickness to guard a small forward in the Big Ten for instance. He's not big enough to be a power forward unless he grows which I think is unlikely. I think he projects to be a very good mid-major player, but would struggle in the major conferences.
Cyllk Joesph 5'11 shooting guard was 3-6 from 3 and 2-2 from 2 including a dunk off a nice alley-opp. His shooting form looked really good...smooth and quick. He didn't handle the ball very much because Robinson handled those duties. He might be an undersized shooting guard but he can make up for that with his athleticism.
Christopher Bond 6'4 forward showed great atleticism and ability to finish in the paint. He has great springs and very good lateral quickness. He is more of a power forward, but he can handle the ball a little bit and is quick enough to guard a small forward at the mid-major level. He would be really good at the low-major level.
Steven Jamison 6'7 small forward was the main bright spot for Broad Ripple. He is a legit 6'5 and maybe 6'6. He is a streaky outside shooter and he will take some shots that leave a lot to be desired. He is long and is a good finisher especially above the rim. I see Jamison as a solid mid-major prospect. I think he would be really good in a style like IUPUI's.
Ron Patterson 6'3 shooting guard is a big time player. Today was not his best game though. In the first half, he wasn't real aggressive looking for his shot although he had 2 dunks including 1 over the top of a Bowman player. He is explosive off the floor while also being a good shooter from the outside. I saw him play in a D1 open gym this year that featured NBA players and he fit right in.
Aaron Payne 6'1 point guard is a promising young player for Broad Ripple. He struggled with decision making against the Bowman pressure but a lot of good senior guards would struggle too. He did have 6 points on 3-6 shooting. He got to the rim a few times and had shots rim out.
IPSAC Midwest Basketball Challenge
The first game of the day due to Gary Roosevelt not showing up was Lew Wallace against Indianapolis Tech.
The game was only close for the first quarter. In the second quarter, Wallace started to pull away and they never looked back. Wallace was led by Branden Dawson and LaTroy Taylor. Everyone knows Dawson, but Taylor might be a new name for people.
LaTroy Taylor 6'2 guard was the game's MVP finishing with 27 points and 7 assists. He played mostly the off guard in this game, but it looks like he could play the point at the next level. He showed very good vision while getting to the basket constantly against the Tech defense. He might be a stretch for the good mid-major programs because I'm not sure about his outside shooting. His free-throw form looked good though.
Branden Dawson 6'7 forward was impressive with his length and athleticism. He is listed at 6'6 but looked taller than that and taller than he looked in the summer. He is still developing his shot and it was very inconsistent this game. He dominated around the rim though and showed good quickness. Dawson handled the ball a little bit, but not where you would want to put the ball in his hands all the time. He was better than my first impression of him last year.
Isaac Mack 6'1 guard was the main bright spot for Tech. He hit numerous 3's although he also took a lot of them. He wasn't on fire by any stretch. He has a nice lefty shooting form though.
Mo Cross 6'3 forward was in foul trouble the whole game. He actually picked up his fourth foul in the first half...fouling a jump shooter to make things worse. It was disappointing not to get a better look at Cross.
Beecher Ward 6'4 forward looked like he could make a good post at the NAIA/D2 level with his athleticism and quickness. He could guard a 3 or 4 at that level.
The game was only close for the first quarter. In the second quarter, Wallace started to pull away and they never looked back. Wallace was led by Branden Dawson and LaTroy Taylor. Everyone knows Dawson, but Taylor might be a new name for people.
LaTroy Taylor 6'2 guard was the game's MVP finishing with 27 points and 7 assists. He played mostly the off guard in this game, but it looks like he could play the point at the next level. He showed very good vision while getting to the basket constantly against the Tech defense. He might be a stretch for the good mid-major programs because I'm not sure about his outside shooting. His free-throw form looked good though.
Branden Dawson 6'7 forward was impressive with his length and athleticism. He is listed at 6'6 but looked taller than that and taller than he looked in the summer. He is still developing his shot and it was very inconsistent this game. He dominated around the rim though and showed good quickness. Dawson handled the ball a little bit, but not where you would want to put the ball in his hands all the time. He was better than my first impression of him last year.
Isaac Mack 6'1 guard was the main bright spot for Tech. He hit numerous 3's although he also took a lot of them. He wasn't on fire by any stretch. He has a nice lefty shooting form though.
Mo Cross 6'3 forward was in foul trouble the whole game. He actually picked up his fourth foul in the first half...fouling a jump shooter to make things worse. It was disappointing not to get a better look at Cross.
Beecher Ward 6'4 forward looked like he could make a good post at the NAIA/D2 level with his athleticism and quickness. He could guard a 3 or 4 at that level.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Hamilton Southeastern @ North Central
The first quarter was highly competitive...that was about it. Hamilton Southeastern led after one quarter 25-23. The Royals were led by Zach Starr. Starr had 7 of HSE's first 9 points and didn't stop most of the night. I had him down for at least 17 points on the night. I wasn't planning on keeping his stats so that number might be low.
Not to be out done by Starr, Terone Johnson had 19 points in the first half. Johnson and D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera dominated the second quarter which helped North Central open up a 49-30 halftime lead.
The second half was much of the same. Gary Harris got a little more aggressive for HSE. Harris had a nice breakaway dunk but he only finished with 11 points on the night.
North Central ended up winning with a score of 88-61. Johnson led North Central in scoring with 23 points. Smith-Rivera had 21 points on 9-17 shooting. Patrick Ingram had 9 points by going 4-5 from the field.
Hamilton Southeastern was without Jake Browne. I'm unaware of why he was not in uniform for this game.
Zach Starr 6'1 senior did most of the ball handling for HSE and was the Royals main scoring option. He has a good looking shot and also finished inside the lane against contact a few times. I think he is a shooting guard in a point guard body. He looks like a NAIA/D2/D3 prospect.
Gary Harris 6'4 sophomore is a highly rated player for the 2012 class in Indiana. He didn't look for his shot much at all in the first half. Harris was especially passive when North Central was in a zone (they played zone most of the game). He has the skills, but I think he needs to be more aggressive trying to score. His team needs him to do it that in order to be successful. Harris is definitely a mid-major or higher prospect at this point.
Dzenan Mrkaljevic 6'7 senior...don't ask me or the public address announcer at North Central how to say his name. He didn't do much scoring, but he looks like he can. He has small forward skills with good mobility and athleticism. He had 5 rebounds and a couple of blocks, but only 4 points. I only had him down for 1 shot attempt although he play a majority of the minutes.
Terone Johnson 6'3 senior is very good. He will give Purdue another scoring option with his outside shooting next year. If DeShaun Thomas wasn't in his class, he would be in the discussion for Mr. Basketball this year.
D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera 6'4 sophomore is listed at 219 lbs. He is a tank and he knows how to use his body. He is crafty with the ball using hesitation moves and head fakes to get defenders out of position. He is definitely a mid-major or higher prospect and I'm not doubting his determination to be able to play at the highest level.
Trip McFall 6'3 senior showed his ability to defend, get to the rim with the dribble, and to shoot from the outside in this game. I think he has the skills and athleticism to play at the NAIA/D2 level. He seems like a competitor and most teams need those type of guys.
Not to be out done by Starr, Terone Johnson had 19 points in the first half. Johnson and D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera dominated the second quarter which helped North Central open up a 49-30 halftime lead.
The second half was much of the same. Gary Harris got a little more aggressive for HSE. Harris had a nice breakaway dunk but he only finished with 11 points on the night.
North Central ended up winning with a score of 88-61. Johnson led North Central in scoring with 23 points. Smith-Rivera had 21 points on 9-17 shooting. Patrick Ingram had 9 points by going 4-5 from the field.
Hamilton Southeastern was without Jake Browne. I'm unaware of why he was not in uniform for this game.
Zach Starr 6'1 senior did most of the ball handling for HSE and was the Royals main scoring option. He has a good looking shot and also finished inside the lane against contact a few times. I think he is a shooting guard in a point guard body. He looks like a NAIA/D2/D3 prospect.
Gary Harris 6'4 sophomore is a highly rated player for the 2012 class in Indiana. He didn't look for his shot much at all in the first half. Harris was especially passive when North Central was in a zone (they played zone most of the game). He has the skills, but I think he needs to be more aggressive trying to score. His team needs him to do it that in order to be successful. Harris is definitely a mid-major or higher prospect at this point.
Dzenan Mrkaljevic 6'7 senior...don't ask me or the public address announcer at North Central how to say his name. He didn't do much scoring, but he looks like he can. He has small forward skills with good mobility and athleticism. He had 5 rebounds and a couple of blocks, but only 4 points. I only had him down for 1 shot attempt although he play a majority of the minutes.
Terone Johnson 6'3 senior is very good. He will give Purdue another scoring option with his outside shooting next year. If DeShaun Thomas wasn't in his class, he would be in the discussion for Mr. Basketball this year.
D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera 6'4 sophomore is listed at 219 lbs. He is a tank and he knows how to use his body. He is crafty with the ball using hesitation moves and head fakes to get defenders out of position. He is definitely a mid-major or higher prospect and I'm not doubting his determination to be able to play at the highest level.
Trip McFall 6'3 senior showed his ability to defend, get to the rim with the dribble, and to shoot from the outside in this game. I think he has the skills and athleticism to play at the NAIA/D2 level. He seems like a competitor and most teams need those type of guys.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Lafayette Jeff @ Noblesville
This game was not as crisp or as well played as I expected it to be. Noblesville jumped out to a early lead by attacking the basket, but then Lafayette Jeff switched to a 2-3 zone which really changed the game. Noblesville wasn't getting many good looks against the zone and when they did get the looks...they weren't making the shots.
Senior guard Roddy Richardson looked to be pressing a little too much. He was 3-10 for the half and most of the shots were closely contested. Richardson did a good job defensively all-night though.
Fellow senior Jesse Berry also struggled most the night. Berry struggled to finish plays in the lane that he normally does. He did get to the foul line 14 times, but went 1-4 down the stretch that could have made the game closer. Berry ended with 23 points on the night.
In the second half, Noblesville started to attack the Jeff zone more and started to knock down outside shots as well. The Millers scored 26 points in the third quarter after they scored 24 points in the whole first half. Andrew Lively hit some big 3's and had a big second half. Jake Yeary consistently got great post position and scored down low. Yeary has very good post moves and was even better at sealing his defender. Yeary scored over bigger guys all night. Michael Deines had some very good drives to the rim and finished them each time. All of the Noblesville players mentioned are seniors.
Noblesville ended up controlling the 4th and was helped by Jeff's inability to make free-throws when it counted most. Noblesville got extra possessions by back tipping missed free-throws.
Rashad Richardson is a 6'4 sophomore small forward for Lafayette Jeff. He handled the ball, but definitely needs to tighten up his handles. He was also 1-2 from outside the arc. He looks like a potential college prospect with some skill development especially if he grows a little bit more.
Leland Brown had a very quiet night for Noblesville. He finished with 8 points and I only had him down for 3 shot attempts.
Senior guard Roddy Richardson looked to be pressing a little too much. He was 3-10 for the half and most of the shots were closely contested. Richardson did a good job defensively all-night though.
Fellow senior Jesse Berry also struggled most the night. Berry struggled to finish plays in the lane that he normally does. He did get to the foul line 14 times, but went 1-4 down the stretch that could have made the game closer. Berry ended with 23 points on the night.
In the second half, Noblesville started to attack the Jeff zone more and started to knock down outside shots as well. The Millers scored 26 points in the third quarter after they scored 24 points in the whole first half. Andrew Lively hit some big 3's and had a big second half. Jake Yeary consistently got great post position and scored down low. Yeary has very good post moves and was even better at sealing his defender. Yeary scored over bigger guys all night. Michael Deines had some very good drives to the rim and finished them each time. All of the Noblesville players mentioned are seniors.
Noblesville ended up controlling the 4th and was helped by Jeff's inability to make free-throws when it counted most. Noblesville got extra possessions by back tipping missed free-throws.
Rashad Richardson is a 6'4 sophomore small forward for Lafayette Jeff. He handled the ball, but definitely needs to tighten up his handles. He was also 1-2 from outside the arc. He looks like a potential college prospect with some skill development especially if he grows a little bit more.
Leland Brown had a very quiet night for Noblesville. He finished with 8 points and I only had him down for 3 shot attempts.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Upcoming Games
I plan on going to the Noblesville/Lafayette Jeff game on Friday night. Then on Saturday I plan on attending the North Central/Hamilton Southeastern game. Both games feature one team I've already seen this year and one team I want to see.
Lafayette Jeff features Dayton commit Jesse Berry and senior shooter Roddy Richardson. Hamilton Southeastern has a pair of sophomore guards. The more hyped player being Gary Harris who is a 6'3 versatile guard. The other being Jacoby Bledsoe who is a point guard that can score the ball.
I think both games will be competitive while showcasing a good amount of talent!
Lafayette Jeff features Dayton commit Jesse Berry and senior shooter Roddy Richardson. Hamilton Southeastern has a pair of sophomore guards. The more hyped player being Gary Harris who is a 6'3 versatile guard. The other being Jacoby Bledsoe who is a point guard that can score the ball.
I think both games will be competitive while showcasing a good amount of talent!
Saturday, December 12, 2009
North Central @ Carmel Game Report
No, I am not a Carmel fan. They have just played two teams I have wanted to see play so far. I will see more teams than just Carmel.
Game Report
Carmel stormed out and control the first few minutes. There were a ton of foul calls especially in the first half. It really hurt the rhythm of the game. North Central benefited from Carmel turnovers through full-court pressure applied by North Central. After one quarter, the score was tied at 17.
The second quarter was dominated by Carmel. They scored 31 points in the quarter. Eleven of those points were scored by junior Josh Baldridge who connected on 3 of 4 from 3-point range. Carmel was up 48-36 at the half.
After halftime, North Central had the same type of quarter that Carmel had in the second. Ronnie and Terone Johnson really picked up the scoring for North Central. They both hit multiple 3's in the quarter. North Central fought back to have the game tied at 63 heading into the final quarter.
D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera battled foul trouble all night and wasn't very aggressive when he was in the game. They may have been because of the foul trouble or the fact that he was unable to get into a rhythm from all the fouls being called. He ended up with just 10 points on the night.
The final quarter was back and forth. Terone Johnson hit some big shots in the quarter. No shot was bigger than Baldridge's 3-pointer with under a minute to go that put Carmel up 3 points. Trip McFall had a 3-point attempt go half way down and come out that would have tied the game up. Carmel ended up winning 83-79.
Terone Johnson, 6'4 SG commit to Purdue, ended up with an unofficial 30 points by my count. He was 5-9 from 3-point range and 5-8 from 2-point range. He didn't look as explosive as he did over the summer. He had his calf taped and that might have had something to do with it.
Darius Latham, 6'4 PF freshmen, started and had a solid game inside for North Central. He is not built like a freshmen just like DSR wasn't last year. He also had a big 3-point play the old fashioned way when he took contact from A.J. Hammons and finished over him.
Robert Kitzinger, 6'6 SF senior, shot very well this game. I had him 4-5 from 3 and 2 for 2 from 2-point. He is good at catch and shooting. His height allows him to get his shot off over people. I haven't seen him come off a screen and bury a shot or a 2-dribble pull-up over someone.
Ben Gardner, 5'11 PG sophomore, is very good with the ball. He is quick and can finish at the rim. He is pass first and get to the rim second. He doesn't look for his outside shot too much. I like what I have seen from him in the two games I have seen.
AJ Hammons, 6'10 C sophomore, doesn't get enough touches and he gets pushed out away from the basket by smaller guys. He has great footwork and great touch when he catches the ball on the lane line. He also is very good at passing out of double teams which is why I would like to see Carmel get him a touch every possession because he makes good things happen for them.
Alex Payne, 6'0 PG senior, just gets the job done. It is ugly and the defense knows he is going to the basket, but he still finds a way to score or to find the open guy. I had him down for 17 points. He uses the glass well when he gets to the rim.
Ronnie Johnson, 5'10 PG sophomore, is Terone's younger brother. Ronnie is a quick point guard that can shoot from the outside. I would have liked to see him attack the basket more against Carmel. He ended up fouling out of the game with 8 points. He had 27 earlier this year against Pike.
Game Report
Carmel stormed out and control the first few minutes. There were a ton of foul calls especially in the first half. It really hurt the rhythm of the game. North Central benefited from Carmel turnovers through full-court pressure applied by North Central. After one quarter, the score was tied at 17.
The second quarter was dominated by Carmel. They scored 31 points in the quarter. Eleven of those points were scored by junior Josh Baldridge who connected on 3 of 4 from 3-point range. Carmel was up 48-36 at the half.
After halftime, North Central had the same type of quarter that Carmel had in the second. Ronnie and Terone Johnson really picked up the scoring for North Central. They both hit multiple 3's in the quarter. North Central fought back to have the game tied at 63 heading into the final quarter.
D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera battled foul trouble all night and wasn't very aggressive when he was in the game. They may have been because of the foul trouble or the fact that he was unable to get into a rhythm from all the fouls being called. He ended up with just 10 points on the night.
The final quarter was back and forth. Terone Johnson hit some big shots in the quarter. No shot was bigger than Baldridge's 3-pointer with under a minute to go that put Carmel up 3 points. Trip McFall had a 3-point attempt go half way down and come out that would have tied the game up. Carmel ended up winning 83-79.
Terone Johnson, 6'4 SG commit to Purdue, ended up with an unofficial 30 points by my count. He was 5-9 from 3-point range and 5-8 from 2-point range. He didn't look as explosive as he did over the summer. He had his calf taped and that might have had something to do with it.
Darius Latham, 6'4 PF freshmen, started and had a solid game inside for North Central. He is not built like a freshmen just like DSR wasn't last year. He also had a big 3-point play the old fashioned way when he took contact from A.J. Hammons and finished over him.
Robert Kitzinger, 6'6 SF senior, shot very well this game. I had him 4-5 from 3 and 2 for 2 from 2-point. He is good at catch and shooting. His height allows him to get his shot off over people. I haven't seen him come off a screen and bury a shot or a 2-dribble pull-up over someone.
Ben Gardner, 5'11 PG sophomore, is very good with the ball. He is quick and can finish at the rim. He is pass first and get to the rim second. He doesn't look for his outside shot too much. I like what I have seen from him in the two games I have seen.
AJ Hammons, 6'10 C sophomore, doesn't get enough touches and he gets pushed out away from the basket by smaller guys. He has great footwork and great touch when he catches the ball on the lane line. He also is very good at passing out of double teams which is why I would like to see Carmel get him a touch every possession because he makes good things happen for them.
Alex Payne, 6'0 PG senior, just gets the job done. It is ugly and the defense knows he is going to the basket, but he still finds a way to score or to find the open guy. I had him down for 17 points. He uses the glass well when he gets to the rim.
Ronnie Johnson, 5'10 PG sophomore, is Terone's younger brother. Ronnie is a quick point guard that can shoot from the outside. I would have liked to see him attack the basket more against Carmel. He ended up fouling out of the game with 8 points. He had 27 earlier this year against Pike.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Carmel Vs. Noblesville Report
I went to the Noblesville/Carmel game Friday night at Carmel. Noblesville controlled most of the first half, but Carmel ended the half well and was only down 24-23 I believe. Noblesville really attacked A.J. Hammons in the first half and if they didn't finish the first attempt they got a lot of put-back points.
In the third quarter, Carmel dominated and took a 49-37 lead into the 4th quarter. Carmel used a 2-3 zone and looked to run when they got the ball which led to lay-ups for Carmel. Scott Laskowski finished a bunch of shots in the lane in the second half.
The fourth quarter was a completely different story. Noblesville chipped away and had a 3 point lead with 9 seconds left. Laskowski ended up taking and hitting an open 3 from the wing as time expired. It would have been a great spot to foul for Noblesville, but they elected not to just like Memphis elected not to against Kansas in the 2008 National Championship game.
Overtime was back and forth until it was tied with 3 seconds left when Noblesville took a shot that was rebounded and tipped towards the rim by Daniel Purvlicis that missed, but there was a foul called on the play. Purvlicis rolled the first free-throw in and missed the second on purpose so Carmel couldn't throw an inbounds pass long.
Leland Brown was very impressive for Noblesville. He was the main Noblesville player attacking the rim and Hammons. Brown was taking body contact and finishing over the 6'10 Hammons. He also knocked down a couple of 3's and really got after rebounds. I would rate Brown as a low-major/D2 recruit.
A.J. Hammons did not get many touches in the post, but when he did...good things happened. He showed some very good post moves and good touch around the basket. He also passed well out of double teams. Carmel just didn't look for him enough for my liking.
Robert Kitzinger is a 6'5 senior wing for Carmel. He showed the ability to put the ball on the floor but he didn't finish well in the lane especially if there was any contact. He is a good shooter, but not an elite shooter from what I have seen. Probably a D2/NAIA prospect.
In the third quarter, Carmel dominated and took a 49-37 lead into the 4th quarter. Carmel used a 2-3 zone and looked to run when they got the ball which led to lay-ups for Carmel. Scott Laskowski finished a bunch of shots in the lane in the second half.
The fourth quarter was a completely different story. Noblesville chipped away and had a 3 point lead with 9 seconds left. Laskowski ended up taking and hitting an open 3 from the wing as time expired. It would have been a great spot to foul for Noblesville, but they elected not to just like Memphis elected not to against Kansas in the 2008 National Championship game.
Overtime was back and forth until it was tied with 3 seconds left when Noblesville took a shot that was rebounded and tipped towards the rim by Daniel Purvlicis that missed, but there was a foul called on the play. Purvlicis rolled the first free-throw in and missed the second on purpose so Carmel couldn't throw an inbounds pass long.
Leland Brown was very impressive for Noblesville. He was the main Noblesville player attacking the rim and Hammons. Brown was taking body contact and finishing over the 6'10 Hammons. He also knocked down a couple of 3's and really got after rebounds. I would rate Brown as a low-major/D2 recruit.
A.J. Hammons did not get many touches in the post, but when he did...good things happened. He showed some very good post moves and good touch around the basket. He also passed well out of double teams. Carmel just didn't look for him enough for my liking.
Robert Kitzinger is a 6'5 senior wing for Carmel. He showed the ability to put the ball on the floor but he didn't finish well in the lane especially if there was any contact. He is a good shooter, but not an elite shooter from what I have seen. Probably a D2/NAIA prospect.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Season in Full Swing
Well it is December and basketball is officially in full swing. I finally made it to my first few high school games this past weekend. I have been preoccupied with my season to make it to many high school events.
I went to the Hinkle Showcase Saturday night. I was in attendance for the Zionsville game against Guerin Catholic and also the Lawrence North/Brebeuf game.
Zionsville returned basically everyone from their 18-3 team last year. Senior Jack Isenbarger led Zionsville to victory 80-70. The 6'3 point guard is as steady as they come. He can get to the rim while also having good range. He is their leader and is rarely out of control.
Chris Welker is a 6'5 senior who is committed to Army. Welker is very polished in the paint with a variety of moves. He has range, but it is usually of the catch and shoot variety...not off the dribble or coming off screens. He is solid and should be a good player for Army.
Guerin Catholic was scrappy and fought Zionsvile down to the end. The Rapp brothers really stood out. Jordan Rapp is a 6'4 lanky senior. He showed a full game from posting up to shooting the 3 to crashing for offensive rebounds. He looks like he could be a solid NAIA player. Riley Rapp is a 6'0 sophomore that can really shoot the ball. He drove only a few times, but it looked like he was quick enough to do it more and a good enough ball handler to do it more. I would like him to become more of a point guard that shoot than a shooter that can handle it if needed.
In the second game, Brebeuf battled Lawrence North for 3 quarters before LN pulled away. Brebeuf was definitely undersized in the match-up but they put a good effort out.
Mike Lenz is a 6'1 sophomore guard for Brebeuf. He really impressed me with his ability to drive and finish in the lane against LN. He is very thin right now and needs to put on some muscle. He showed toughness and good quickness.
Aloyis Gray was out with an injury which was disappointing. I wanted to see what he could do against the talent of LN. Gray is a 6'3 sophomore.
Brad Altum and Alex Kugar both looked like NAIA/D2 prospects. Altum is a 6'3 senior guard that showed a good dribble pull up game. While Kugar is more of an undersized post that battles and competes.
Saying Lawrence North is talented is like saying the sky is blue. The question is if they will play well as a team or play hard enough to win big games.
They have two Louisville commits in 6'5 Ryan Taylor and 6'10 Michael Chandler. Taylor is transitioning from a power forward to a small forward for college and it is still a work in-progress. Chandler runs very well for a guy nearly 7 feet tall. He also has good timing for blocking shots. He has a soft shooting touch although he is on the block most of the time.
Farooq Davis might give LN the needed guard play they need to go along with their talented big men. He showed very good lateral quickness hounding Brebeuf ball handlers all over the floor. He also knocked down a couple 3's and if he can do that all year LN will be really tough.
I went to the Hinkle Showcase Saturday night. I was in attendance for the Zionsville game against Guerin Catholic and also the Lawrence North/Brebeuf game.
Zionsville returned basically everyone from their 18-3 team last year. Senior Jack Isenbarger led Zionsville to victory 80-70. The 6'3 point guard is as steady as they come. He can get to the rim while also having good range. He is their leader and is rarely out of control.
Chris Welker is a 6'5 senior who is committed to Army. Welker is very polished in the paint with a variety of moves. He has range, but it is usually of the catch and shoot variety...not off the dribble or coming off screens. He is solid and should be a good player for Army.
Guerin Catholic was scrappy and fought Zionsvile down to the end. The Rapp brothers really stood out. Jordan Rapp is a 6'4 lanky senior. He showed a full game from posting up to shooting the 3 to crashing for offensive rebounds. He looks like he could be a solid NAIA player. Riley Rapp is a 6'0 sophomore that can really shoot the ball. He drove only a few times, but it looked like he was quick enough to do it more and a good enough ball handler to do it more. I would like him to become more of a point guard that shoot than a shooter that can handle it if needed.
In the second game, Brebeuf battled Lawrence North for 3 quarters before LN pulled away. Brebeuf was definitely undersized in the match-up but they put a good effort out.
Mike Lenz is a 6'1 sophomore guard for Brebeuf. He really impressed me with his ability to drive and finish in the lane against LN. He is very thin right now and needs to put on some muscle. He showed toughness and good quickness.
Aloyis Gray was out with an injury which was disappointing. I wanted to see what he could do against the talent of LN. Gray is a 6'3 sophomore.
Brad Altum and Alex Kugar both looked like NAIA/D2 prospects. Altum is a 6'3 senior guard that showed a good dribble pull up game. While Kugar is more of an undersized post that battles and competes.
Saying Lawrence North is talented is like saying the sky is blue. The question is if they will play well as a team or play hard enough to win big games.
They have two Louisville commits in 6'5 Ryan Taylor and 6'10 Michael Chandler. Taylor is transitioning from a power forward to a small forward for college and it is still a work in-progress. Chandler runs very well for a guy nearly 7 feet tall. He also has good timing for blocking shots. He has a soft shooting touch although he is on the block most of the time.
Farooq Davis might give LN the needed guard play they need to go along with their talented big men. He showed very good lateral quickness hounding Brebeuf ball handlers all over the floor. He also knocked down a couple 3's and if he can do that all year LN will be really tough.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Metro Indy Fall League Wrap-Up
Well the Metro Indy Fall League has been completed. I thought the games were very competitive and hard fought for the most part. There is nothing to win except pride so at times effort will be less than desired. I saw a lot of people playing hard this year especially the "big name" players. When the best players are playing hard than the less talented guys see they must put their best effort out there.
I'm going to do a breakdown by class of the league. The junior class had the most representation so some good players might be left off that list.
2013
There were only 3 freshmen in the league. The one that stood out for me was Alex Etherington 6'1. Yes, he is Austin's younger brother. He's not quite where Austin was at the same age, but Alex can definitely play. He plays hard and can shoot it pretty well. I expect him to get quality minutes for a solid Hamilton Heights team.
2012
The sophomore class was well represented in the league and a few really stood out against the older competition. DJ Ballentine 6' of Kokomo was a big time player in the league. Ballentine can really score mainly through outside shooting, but also has a good mid-range game. Mitchell Paige 5'10 (Guerin) really impressed me. Paige can shoot it very well to about 22 feet consistently and when players closed out recklessly he drove to the rim creating plays for others. I would say his biggest knock is that he is probably only 5'8 although listed at 5'10. He is quick, but to play at the D1 level you have to be ultra quick to make up for that lack of size.
Brad Hartman 6'6 (Union County) had some very good performances. He showed that he was more than a post-up and rebound type of player. He shot very well from 3 when he got his feet set. He is getting a little more bounce in his legs with his strength training that should help his game. I would say he is a mid-major prospect at this point.
Eron Harris 6'1 (Lawrence North) caught my eye with his defensive ability. Aggressive, long, smart defensively. He, also, was very good getting to the rim and finishing. His shot needs work.
2011
The junior class is going to be hard to mention everyone I need to without making this go on for pages.
Surprises
Greg Dickey 5'10(Tipton), most are probably wondering how Dickey can be a surprise since most people who follow Indiana basketball know of him, well he surprised me with how well he shot it from distance and with his ability to beat guys off the dribble then most importantly finishing at the rim. He finished at the rim consistently when people came to contest. He was very good the whole time.
Robbie Howell 6'5 (Tri-Central) played very well in the mid-range game. I had watched him over the summer a few times, but he was also in the post and didn't do too much. When he was away from the basket he showed a nice shot and the ability to beat guys off the dribble at a strong 6'5. I would rank him as a low-major prospect at this point. For sure, NAIA/D2-type of prospect with his ability to play multiple positions.
Brandon Burtner 5'11 (Western Boone)played a solid game every time out. He doesn't pop out at you, but he takes care of the ball, plays good defense, knocks down the outside shot, and isn't afraid to get after the ball. Probably a small college prospect with a chance to be a low-major prospect if he continues to improve.
Seth Small 5'10 (Hamilton Heights) is best described by his last name. Small definitely can play though and is a great competitor. He shoots it very well and will pull-up from the mid-range. He was tough to guard throughout the league. He is definitely a small college prospect up to a low-major prospect. He is a leader and fighter that can shoot...I know coaches like those type of players.
All-Junior Team
Max Landis 6'1 (Perry Meridian)-Competitor, smart, shooting it better from long distance.
Greg Dick 5'11 (Tipton)-See above
Steven Jamison 6'5 (Broad Ripple)-I believe his only offer right now is from IUPUI. I think he would be great as a wing for any team that wants to get up and down the floor. He could be very good at the top of a 1-3-1.
Austin Etherington 6'6 (Hamilton Heights)-The IU committ hit 2 game winning 3's and really crushed the boards hard. An extreme competitor doing whatever it took to win games...in a fall league.
Tyler Greathouse 6'9 (Columbus North)-The big man that can really stroke it from 3 also showed that he has a solid post game. Aggressiveness is his key to what level he can play at in college.
Demetrius Lawson 6'1 (Zionsville)-A strong guard that has a nice looking shot. To be a solid mid-major guy I think he needs to be able to handle the ball at a point guard level and be a little more consistent from the outside.
2010
There weren't a ton of seniors in the league so I will just put my All-Senior team up.
All-Senior Team
Chrishawn Hopkins 6'1 (Manual)-Butler commit dazzled fans and players with his dunks and play making abilities.
Cody Rohrer 6'1 (Arlington)-A surprise...strong, power guard that was unstoppable at times. He would just put his head down and get to the rim.
Khristian Smith 6'5 (Pike)-More athletic than I had previously given him credit for. I think he is a very good prospect for mid-majors and lower.
Ethan Jacobs 7'0 (Tipton)-The big man played on the perimeter most of the league and did a good job. He can run the floor really well. He has a good shot from the outside, but his post game still needs to be developed.
Neal Beshears 6'6 (Winchester)-The Junior All-Star shined at times. If he was more consistent from the outside he would be a bigger prospect. I love his length...with added muscle he would be able to finish at the rim better against contact.
I'm going to do a breakdown by class of the league. The junior class had the most representation so some good players might be left off that list.
2013
There were only 3 freshmen in the league. The one that stood out for me was Alex Etherington 6'1. Yes, he is Austin's younger brother. He's not quite where Austin was at the same age, but Alex can definitely play. He plays hard and can shoot it pretty well. I expect him to get quality minutes for a solid Hamilton Heights team.
2012
The sophomore class was well represented in the league and a few really stood out against the older competition. DJ Ballentine 6' of Kokomo was a big time player in the league. Ballentine can really score mainly through outside shooting, but also has a good mid-range game. Mitchell Paige 5'10 (Guerin) really impressed me. Paige can shoot it very well to about 22 feet consistently and when players closed out recklessly he drove to the rim creating plays for others. I would say his biggest knock is that he is probably only 5'8 although listed at 5'10. He is quick, but to play at the D1 level you have to be ultra quick to make up for that lack of size.
Brad Hartman 6'6 (Union County) had some very good performances. He showed that he was more than a post-up and rebound type of player. He shot very well from 3 when he got his feet set. He is getting a little more bounce in his legs with his strength training that should help his game. I would say he is a mid-major prospect at this point.
Eron Harris 6'1 (Lawrence North) caught my eye with his defensive ability. Aggressive, long, smart defensively. He, also, was very good getting to the rim and finishing. His shot needs work.
2011
The junior class is going to be hard to mention everyone I need to without making this go on for pages.
Surprises
Greg Dickey 5'10(Tipton), most are probably wondering how Dickey can be a surprise since most people who follow Indiana basketball know of him, well he surprised me with how well he shot it from distance and with his ability to beat guys off the dribble then most importantly finishing at the rim. He finished at the rim consistently when people came to contest. He was very good the whole time.
Robbie Howell 6'5 (Tri-Central) played very well in the mid-range game. I had watched him over the summer a few times, but he was also in the post and didn't do too much. When he was away from the basket he showed a nice shot and the ability to beat guys off the dribble at a strong 6'5. I would rank him as a low-major prospect at this point. For sure, NAIA/D2-type of prospect with his ability to play multiple positions.
Brandon Burtner 5'11 (Western Boone)played a solid game every time out. He doesn't pop out at you, but he takes care of the ball, plays good defense, knocks down the outside shot, and isn't afraid to get after the ball. Probably a small college prospect with a chance to be a low-major prospect if he continues to improve.
Seth Small 5'10 (Hamilton Heights) is best described by his last name. Small definitely can play though and is a great competitor. He shoots it very well and will pull-up from the mid-range. He was tough to guard throughout the league. He is definitely a small college prospect up to a low-major prospect. He is a leader and fighter that can shoot...I know coaches like those type of players.
All-Junior Team
Max Landis 6'1 (Perry Meridian)-Competitor, smart, shooting it better from long distance.
Greg Dick 5'11 (Tipton)-See above
Steven Jamison 6'5 (Broad Ripple)-I believe his only offer right now is from IUPUI. I think he would be great as a wing for any team that wants to get up and down the floor. He could be very good at the top of a 1-3-1.
Austin Etherington 6'6 (Hamilton Heights)-The IU committ hit 2 game winning 3's and really crushed the boards hard. An extreme competitor doing whatever it took to win games...in a fall league.
Tyler Greathouse 6'9 (Columbus North)-The big man that can really stroke it from 3 also showed that he has a solid post game. Aggressiveness is his key to what level he can play at in college.
Demetrius Lawson 6'1 (Zionsville)-A strong guard that has a nice looking shot. To be a solid mid-major guy I think he needs to be able to handle the ball at a point guard level and be a little more consistent from the outside.
2010
There weren't a ton of seniors in the league so I will just put my All-Senior team up.
All-Senior Team
Chrishawn Hopkins 6'1 (Manual)-Butler commit dazzled fans and players with his dunks and play making abilities.
Cody Rohrer 6'1 (Arlington)-A surprise...strong, power guard that was unstoppable at times. He would just put his head down and get to the rim.
Khristian Smith 6'5 (Pike)-More athletic than I had previously given him credit for. I think he is a very good prospect for mid-majors and lower.
Ethan Jacobs 7'0 (Tipton)-The big man played on the perimeter most of the league and did a good job. He can run the floor really well. He has a good shot from the outside, but his post game still needs to be developed.
Neal Beshears 6'6 (Winchester)-The Junior All-Star shined at times. If he was more consistent from the outside he would be a bigger prospect. I love his length...with added muscle he would be able to finish at the rim better against contact.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Hopkins Back to Manual
Chrishawn Hopkins said tonight he would be transferring back to Manual High School from Herron High School after the IHSAA ruled him ineligible for this basketball season. The Butler recruit transferred to Herron to work on his academics, but the IHSAA ruled otherwise. Hopkins said the IHSAA told him he would be eligible immediately when he transferred back to Manual. He added that he was confident he could qualify academically for college at Manual.
Although there were other factors that made his transfer look scretchy, I believe the IHSAA made a mistake ruling him ineligible. That being said...I hope everything works out for Chrishawn and he is able to go on to a good career at Butler University.
Although there were other factors that made his transfer look scretchy, I believe the IHSAA made a mistake ruling him ineligible. That being said...I hope everything works out for Chrishawn and he is able to go on to a good career at Butler University.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Fall League Impressions
I did not do a week 3 wrap-up from the Metro Fall League this past week. So, I decided to give my overall impressions of what I have seen so far in league play. I think the energy and effort as been good for an informal league. It can die off when they don't have anything to play for in theory. Most have realized that it is a good time to get better though and have used the time wisely.
Austin Etherington 6'6 Hamilton Heights has impressed me with his effort. He is one of the big names in the league, but he is also playing the just as hard as anyone. He is crushing the boards, playing defense, and taking every possession seriously on offense. He did a good job containing Chrishawn Hopkins last week which is a very hard task.
Chrishawn Hopkins 6'1 Herron has probably been the most impressive. He has done a little bit of everything. He plays defense, rebounds extremely well, is a leader on the court, a play maker on offense while being pretty unselfish. He is a competitor that puts winning first.
Point Guard play has been very good. Greg Dickey (Tipton) and Max Landis (Perry Meridian) have been two that have really stood out. Dickey is a competitor that gets after it while creating opportunities for his teammates. Landis is a little bigger and stronger than Dickey but plays the same way. Landis uses a lot of change of pace to exploit defenses. Seth Small (Hamilton Heights)was super impressive last week. Small is a heady point guard that is usually pass first, but he is really good shooting from distance. His name describes him well, but he is a player to watch for D2+.
The league is wing dominated. Most of the scorers in the league play the 2/3 positions. Khristian Smith (Pike) has had a good showing. I have been impressed with his athleticism. He is more of an athlete than I had previously given him credit for. Smith also has a good stroke from 3. Steven Jamison (Broad Ripple) is a similar player. He wants to finish at the rim or above it first, but also can hit the outside shot if left open. I would be curious how much Jamison's game could grow with some added muscle. Neal Beshears (Winchester) is another solid wing in the league. When Beshears is shooting it well he is hard to stop because he can finish at the rim. He is streaky from the outside though. I think all 3 of those guys will be D1 players.
Ethan Jacobs 7'0 Tipton committed to Ohio could very well be a pro one day. He runs the floor extremely well and becoming more coordinated everyday. He already shoots it well from 19 feet, but probably shoots it a little too much instead of polishing up his inside game. He is impressive to watch run and handle the ball on a fast break though.
That certainly isn't everyone that has played well, but those are the people that have really stood out in my eyes when I have been watching games.
Austin Etherington 6'6 Hamilton Heights has impressed me with his effort. He is one of the big names in the league, but he is also playing the just as hard as anyone. He is crushing the boards, playing defense, and taking every possession seriously on offense. He did a good job containing Chrishawn Hopkins last week which is a very hard task.
Chrishawn Hopkins 6'1 Herron has probably been the most impressive. He has done a little bit of everything. He plays defense, rebounds extremely well, is a leader on the court, a play maker on offense while being pretty unselfish. He is a competitor that puts winning first.
Point Guard play has been very good. Greg Dickey (Tipton) and Max Landis (Perry Meridian) have been two that have really stood out. Dickey is a competitor that gets after it while creating opportunities for his teammates. Landis is a little bigger and stronger than Dickey but plays the same way. Landis uses a lot of change of pace to exploit defenses. Seth Small (Hamilton Heights)was super impressive last week. Small is a heady point guard that is usually pass first, but he is really good shooting from distance. His name describes him well, but he is a player to watch for D2+.
The league is wing dominated. Most of the scorers in the league play the 2/3 positions. Khristian Smith (Pike) has had a good showing. I have been impressed with his athleticism. He is more of an athlete than I had previously given him credit for. Smith also has a good stroke from 3. Steven Jamison (Broad Ripple) is a similar player. He wants to finish at the rim or above it first, but also can hit the outside shot if left open. I would be curious how much Jamison's game could grow with some added muscle. Neal Beshears (Winchester) is another solid wing in the league. When Beshears is shooting it well he is hard to stop because he can finish at the rim. He is streaky from the outside though. I think all 3 of those guys will be D1 players.
Ethan Jacobs 7'0 Tipton committed to Ohio could very well be a pro one day. He runs the floor extremely well and becoming more coordinated everyday. He already shoots it well from 19 feet, but probably shoots it a little too much instead of polishing up his inside game. He is impressive to watch run and handle the ball on a fast break though.
That certainly isn't everyone that has played well, but those are the people that have really stood out in my eyes when I have been watching games.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Fall League-Week 2
This week, I got a chance to play against the two teams I didn't see play much last week and there were a few impressive performances.
Greg Dickey 5'11 Tipton finished in the lane possession after possession and also hit a few shots from 3pt. land. He is a solid playmaker that can finish when he needs to like he did all night tonight.
Ethan Jacobs 7'0 Tipton continues to "wow" people with his range. He hit multiple 3's on the night and also ran the floor really well for a man his size.
Alexander Hutson 6'1 Tipton is streaky but he can go from cold to hot in a matter of a couple possessions and when he is on he is one of the better shooters I have ever seen.
Robbie Howell 6'5 Tri-Central might be the surprise of the team. A good spot-up shooter to about 17 feet and the ability to put it on the floor and go by a defender.
DJ Ballentine 6'0 Kokomo can really shoot the basketball. The sophomore is also good at getting into the lane and creating shots although he did not do much of that tonight.
Evan Dodd 6'5 Columbus North is similar to Howell in build and style. Dodd is probably a little bit better shooting off the dribble right now than Howell is. Dodd hit multiple pull up jumpers from about 15 feet.
Tyler Greathouse 6'8 Columbus North struggled shooting a little bit tonight, but they all looked like they were going in on the release. He also posted up well a few times. He has good post moves, but he rarely displays them.
Michael Onuorah 6'2 Brebeuf is a strong wing from Indianapolis. He rebounded well and also penetrated into the lane for a few lay-ups. I will plan to watch him more closely in the next few weeks.
Eric Harris 6'1 Lawrence North had the challenge of guarding Chrishawn Hopkins most of the game and did a good job overall. What surprised me was Harris' ability to score on Hopkins on the other end.
Eron Harris 6'0 Lawrence North hit a number of floaters and pull-up jumpers off the glass. He consistently beat defenders to the lane. It appears the sophomore needs to tighten up his range from 17 feet out.
Mark Fennerty 5'11 Carmel is known for his shooting ability and rightly so, but he uses his body really well to get defenders off of him in the lane and also has good vision to find teammates spotting up. Hopefully, he gets some good minutes for Carmel this year.
Jeff Sustarcic 6'1 Union County showed his ability to knock down open 3's in the second game of the night. Sustarcic is also a solid defender from the guard spot. He is probably an NAIA-type recruit.
Steve Malone 6'1 Arlington has played well for me the first two weeks. Malone pressures opposing point guards and is a good shooter. He takes some undesired shots at points but overall he is a good, tough player.
Cody Rohrer 6'2 Arlington is a bull/running back getting to the rim. He got to the rim and finished consistently tonight especially when baskets were needed. He is also a good spot-up shooter.
Brandon Burtner 5'11 Western Boone is a junior point guard and hit some big 3's tonight off of kick outs from Chrishawn Hopkins. Probably another D2/NAIA type of prospect.
Wade Thomas 6'8 Western Boone is a fast developing post. That being said, he still has a lot of weight to gain and a lot of skills to refine. He has a good looking 15 foot jumper, but it gets flat at times right now. He works hard and should continue to keep growing as a player. D2+ by the time he is done, he is a junior right now.
Greg Dickey 5'11 Tipton finished in the lane possession after possession and also hit a few shots from 3pt. land. He is a solid playmaker that can finish when he needs to like he did all night tonight.
Ethan Jacobs 7'0 Tipton continues to "wow" people with his range. He hit multiple 3's on the night and also ran the floor really well for a man his size.
Alexander Hutson 6'1 Tipton is streaky but he can go from cold to hot in a matter of a couple possessions and when he is on he is one of the better shooters I have ever seen.
Robbie Howell 6'5 Tri-Central might be the surprise of the team. A good spot-up shooter to about 17 feet and the ability to put it on the floor and go by a defender.
DJ Ballentine 6'0 Kokomo can really shoot the basketball. The sophomore is also good at getting into the lane and creating shots although he did not do much of that tonight.
Evan Dodd 6'5 Columbus North is similar to Howell in build and style. Dodd is probably a little bit better shooting off the dribble right now than Howell is. Dodd hit multiple pull up jumpers from about 15 feet.
Tyler Greathouse 6'8 Columbus North struggled shooting a little bit tonight, but they all looked like they were going in on the release. He also posted up well a few times. He has good post moves, but he rarely displays them.
Michael Onuorah 6'2 Brebeuf is a strong wing from Indianapolis. He rebounded well and also penetrated into the lane for a few lay-ups. I will plan to watch him more closely in the next few weeks.
Eric Harris 6'1 Lawrence North had the challenge of guarding Chrishawn Hopkins most of the game and did a good job overall. What surprised me was Harris' ability to score on Hopkins on the other end.
Eron Harris 6'0 Lawrence North hit a number of floaters and pull-up jumpers off the glass. He consistently beat defenders to the lane. It appears the sophomore needs to tighten up his range from 17 feet out.
Mark Fennerty 5'11 Carmel is known for his shooting ability and rightly so, but he uses his body really well to get defenders off of him in the lane and also has good vision to find teammates spotting up. Hopefully, he gets some good minutes for Carmel this year.
Jeff Sustarcic 6'1 Union County showed his ability to knock down open 3's in the second game of the night. Sustarcic is also a solid defender from the guard spot. He is probably an NAIA-type recruit.
Steve Malone 6'1 Arlington has played well for me the first two weeks. Malone pressures opposing point guards and is a good shooter. He takes some undesired shots at points but overall he is a good, tough player.
Cody Rohrer 6'2 Arlington is a bull/running back getting to the rim. He got to the rim and finished consistently tonight especially when baskets were needed. He is also a good spot-up shooter.
Brandon Burtner 5'11 Western Boone is a junior point guard and hit some big 3's tonight off of kick outs from Chrishawn Hopkins. Probably another D2/NAIA type of prospect.
Wade Thomas 6'8 Western Boone is a fast developing post. That being said, he still has a lot of weight to gain and a lot of skills to refine. He has a good looking 15 foot jumper, but it gets flat at times right now. He works hard and should continue to keep growing as a player. D2+ by the time he is done, he is a junior right now.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Metro Fall League
Metro Fall League started Sunday night at Arlington High School and will run through the first weekend of November. There is a solid line-up of D1 commits and D1 prospects including Chrishawn Hopkins (Butler), Austin Etherington (Indiana University), Ethan Jacobs (Ohio University)along with prospects Khristian Smith (Pike), Neal Beshears (Winchester), Brad Hartman (Union County), Tyler Greathouse (Columbus North), Max Landis (Perry Meridian), Steven Jamison (Broad Ripple), and Demetrius Lawson (Zionsville).
Steven Jamison 6'5 Broad Ripple showed a full offensive game. He converted a few jump hooks over smaller defenders and also showed range to about 21 or 22 feet. Definitely a mid-major type of wing and maybe higher depending on the program.
Max Landis 6'0 Perry Meridian is vastly underrated right now. He is good with hesitation moves and was getting into the lane at will Sunday and finishing which is just important. There isn't a lack of 6'0 point guards though. I think he would be great at a low major school although he can probably play higher depending on his development.
Khristian Smith 6'5 Pike showed a little more athleticism than I thought he had on an alley-opp that was thrown too high and he went up and got it with 2 hands. It was very impressive. He, also, came over from the weak side to block some shots high off the glass. He has a good outside stroke when he is spotted up.
Austin Etherington 6'6 Hamilton Heights hit some big shots down the stretch in one of his games to lead his team to a win. It looks like he has added some muscle which will be key for his collegiate career. He can do everything on the court.
Chrishawn Hopkins 6'2 Herron blows my mind at how unselfish he is even in games like this fall league. He does take a lot of shots but he could shoot every time down the court and it would rarely be a bad shot because he can elevate over a defender for a shot, he can beat most defenders to the rim and then finish the play way above the rim. He is always screening and setting up teammates for easy baskets. Butler definitely has a good one with Hopkins.
Demetrius Lawson 6'2 Zionsville had a good night showing that he can finish at the rim and shoot the ball from the outside. I would like him to develop into more of a point guard, but he is good enough to play the 2/3 at most colleges. He uses his strength to get by people a lot right now which he probably won't be able to do at the next level.
Neal Beshears 6'6 Winchester looked really good playing against Austin Etherington. He did a good job defending him and really bothered Etherington with his length. I really think if he can add some muscle that his game will grow immediately.
Christian Ford 5'10 Ritter had a good first night. He is a solid spot up shooter that can create shots for people but struggles with shot selection. He is probably a D2 prospect right now heading into his junior year.
I didn't get a chance to see much of 2 teams. The team with Ethan Jacobs and DJ Ballentine was impressive but I did not get to see them play very much. I did not get to see much of Coach Stang's team play either which has Greathouse, Dodd, and Eric Harris. I hope to see them more this weekend.
Steven Jamison 6'5 Broad Ripple showed a full offensive game. He converted a few jump hooks over smaller defenders and also showed range to about 21 or 22 feet. Definitely a mid-major type of wing and maybe higher depending on the program.
Max Landis 6'0 Perry Meridian is vastly underrated right now. He is good with hesitation moves and was getting into the lane at will Sunday and finishing which is just important. There isn't a lack of 6'0 point guards though. I think he would be great at a low major school although he can probably play higher depending on his development.
Khristian Smith 6'5 Pike showed a little more athleticism than I thought he had on an alley-opp that was thrown too high and he went up and got it with 2 hands. It was very impressive. He, also, came over from the weak side to block some shots high off the glass. He has a good outside stroke when he is spotted up.
Austin Etherington 6'6 Hamilton Heights hit some big shots down the stretch in one of his games to lead his team to a win. It looks like he has added some muscle which will be key for his collegiate career. He can do everything on the court.
Chrishawn Hopkins 6'2 Herron blows my mind at how unselfish he is even in games like this fall league. He does take a lot of shots but he could shoot every time down the court and it would rarely be a bad shot because he can elevate over a defender for a shot, he can beat most defenders to the rim and then finish the play way above the rim. He is always screening and setting up teammates for easy baskets. Butler definitely has a good one with Hopkins.
Demetrius Lawson 6'2 Zionsville had a good night showing that he can finish at the rim and shoot the ball from the outside. I would like him to develop into more of a point guard, but he is good enough to play the 2/3 at most colleges. He uses his strength to get by people a lot right now which he probably won't be able to do at the next level.
Neal Beshears 6'6 Winchester looked really good playing against Austin Etherington. He did a good job defending him and really bothered Etherington with his length. I really think if he can add some muscle that his game will grow immediately.
Christian Ford 5'10 Ritter had a good first night. He is a solid spot up shooter that can create shots for people but struggles with shot selection. He is probably a D2 prospect right now heading into his junior year.
I didn't get a chance to see much of 2 teams. The team with Ethan Jacobs and DJ Ballentine was impressive but I did not get to see them play very much. I did not get to see much of Coach Stang's team play either which has Greathouse, Dodd, and Eric Harris. I hope to see them more this weekend.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Zionsville Open Gym
I've had a chance to see a couple of Zionsville open gyms this week as I will be coaching in their program this year. Here are some of the observations that I had during the open gyms.
Chris Welker 6'5 has great footwork in all parts of the offensive game. Welker is really strong, can shoot it well to 22 feet, is a great leader, and has a very good basketball IQ. He verbally committed to Army over the summer and is planning on sticking with that. If he decides to change after the coaching change is determined, I would get on him if I was a mid-major or lower.
Demetrius Lawson 6'1 is a strong, combo guard at this point but I think he can make the transition to point guard in the future. He has great form on his outside shot and is a good athlete. He plays the game very unselfishly. Lawson is a sleeper at this point, but will probably have a big year for a very good team.
Reed McLaughlin 6'5 is an inside/outside threat from the 3/4 spot. He is really good from 3 when he gets his feet set. He is a a good small college prospect. Right now, his favorite is Williams College on the east coast for their high academics.
Will Dixon 6'1 freshmen is long for his height, good shooter from the outside, handles it and creates well for others, good defensively for his age. A very smart player for a frosh.
Andrew Dakich 5'11 freshmen is a heady, crafty, smart player. He can shoot it a little bit but in a program of good shooters he can make them look good by creating for them at this point. I think he will be more of a scorer once he grows a little bit more.
Zionsville has a very good looking freshmen class. It will be interesting how they develop over the next few years.
Jack Isenbarger (mid-major recruit), Chris Roberts, Blake Luers (football recruit) all play fall sports.
Chris Welker 6'5 has great footwork in all parts of the offensive game. Welker is really strong, can shoot it well to 22 feet, is a great leader, and has a very good basketball IQ. He verbally committed to Army over the summer and is planning on sticking with that. If he decides to change after the coaching change is determined, I would get on him if I was a mid-major or lower.
Demetrius Lawson 6'1 is a strong, combo guard at this point but I think he can make the transition to point guard in the future. He has great form on his outside shot and is a good athlete. He plays the game very unselfishly. Lawson is a sleeper at this point, but will probably have a big year for a very good team.
Reed McLaughlin 6'5 is an inside/outside threat from the 3/4 spot. He is really good from 3 when he gets his feet set. He is a a good small college prospect. Right now, his favorite is Williams College on the east coast for their high academics.
Will Dixon 6'1 freshmen is long for his height, good shooter from the outside, handles it and creates well for others, good defensively for his age. A very smart player for a frosh.
Andrew Dakich 5'11 freshmen is a heady, crafty, smart player. He can shoot it a little bit but in a program of good shooters he can make them look good by creating for them at this point. I think he will be more of a scorer once he grows a little bit more.
Zionsville has a very good looking freshmen class. It will be interesting how they develop over the next few years.
Jack Isenbarger (mid-major recruit), Chris Roberts, Blake Luers (football recruit) all play fall sports.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Crews Out at Army
Jeff Goodman of Fox Sports is reporting that Jim Crews will part from Army. Crews played under Bob Knight at Indiana and also was the head man at Evansville for many years. Crews always used his Indiana ties to recruit Indiana. This summer he picked up a verbal commitment from Zionsville's Chris Welker. So, Welker's recruiting might re-open depending on the outcome of this situation.
Another player has transferred out of Indiana from the class of 2010. Power guard Kennis White from South Bend Washington has moved out of state. The 2010 class has been depleted from transfers and people moving out of state. Hopefully, this trend does not continue with future classes.
Another player has transferred out of Indiana from the class of 2010. Power guard Kennis White from South Bend Washington has moved out of state. The 2010 class has been depleted from transfers and people moving out of state. Hopefully, this trend does not continue with future classes.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Jake Kitchell to Indiana State
The Indy Star's Kyle Neddenriep is reporting that Jake Kitchell of South Central has committed to Indiana State. I think it is a good fit for both parties. The 6'8 Kitchell will bring some toughness inside for the Sycamores with his rebounding and defensive toughness.
He has some work to do offensively to contribute, but I expect him to play early at Indiana State because of the other things he can provide. He needs to be more aggressive and assertive offensively. During AAU, he didn't even think about making a scoring move when he got the ball in the post against the solid teams. That should change when he moves to the next level.
Overall, I like the move by both sides.
He has some work to do offensively to contribute, but I expect him to play early at Indiana State because of the other things he can provide. He needs to be more aggressive and assertive offensively. During AAU, he didn't even think about making a scoring move when he got the ball in the post against the solid teams. That should change when he moves to the next level.
Overall, I like the move by both sides.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Update
August and September are slow months for high school basketball. Recruiting is heavy right now with coaches being able to attend open gyms and work outs. College coaches also have to organize and conduct individual work outs while balancing time to hit the road and recruit. So, by no means is this time of the year slow for them.
I don't have much player news right now. The annual fall league that I coach is will be starting up in the next few weeks. If there are any players with college potential in the Indy area that want to play in the league contact me or just leave a comment.
I have been to a couple sets of individual work outs so far. I plan to attend more in the near future. D1 schools are allowed one hour of team work outs a week in the preseason and hopefully I will be able to make a few of those soon.
The season is fast approaching!
I don't have much player news right now. The annual fall league that I coach is will be starting up in the next few weeks. If there are any players with college potential in the Indy area that want to play in the league contact me or just leave a comment.
I have been to a couple sets of individual work outs so far. I plan to attend more in the near future. D1 schools are allowed one hour of team work outs a week in the preseason and hopefully I will be able to make a few of those soon.
The season is fast approaching!
Friday, August 28, 2009
More Transfers
Well, two big names in Indiana high school basketball transferred to the same prep school this week. Justin Martin, the recent Xavier commit, and Ronald Ross transferred to Mountain State University Academy in West Virginia. They both have stated academics as the reason why they transferred.
All these transfers leave me thinking about the Indiana All-Star team for the class of 2010. It was already recognized as a below par class by Indiana standards, but now it is getting worse with all the transfers. It will definitely give some others a chance to fulfill a dream that many aren't able to do. It should be interesting to see how steps up and takes advantage of a great opportunity.
All these transfers leave me thinking about the Indiana All-Star team for the class of 2010. It was already recognized as a below par class by Indiana standards, but now it is getting worse with all the transfers. It will definitely give some others a chance to fulfill a dream that many aren't able to do. It should be interesting to see how steps up and takes advantage of a great opportunity.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Out of State Transfers
Indiana has avoided prep school transfers better than most states. Indiana for the most part have kept their players in the state. This year it seems to be a little bit different. Dominique Ferguson will attend Hargrave Academy this year. Ferguson is one of the highest rated players in Indiana and recently committed to Isiah Thomas' (or Thompson as his President knows him by) Florida International. Last year, Evan Gordon transferred out of North Central to attend prep school as well. Most will remember Robert Vaden leaving Pike to attend prep school...a move that received him and Mike Davis a lot of flack from the Indiana fan base.
Xavier Jones of Gary West Side announced that he will not be returning to school there because of a lack of recognition. I find that hard to believe especially since he played for SYF this past summer. He has offers from multiple D-1 programs. He will not be transferring to a prep school though but instead just a school somewhere in Ohio.
Jan Maehlen, formerly of Lawrence North, transferred to Arizona but I believe that is less basketball related than the other transfers. Lawrence North lost a lot of height with Jeff Robinson (Xavier) graduating, Chris Read graduating, Ferguson and Maehlen transferring. It should be an interesting year and LN like it is most years.
Enique Mason, formerly of Brownsburg, is also said to be transferring out of the state. He is rumored to be attending a school in Ohio. An interesting note, all the players listed in this article (Mason, Maehlen, Ferguson, Jones) all played on SYF this past summer. It may very well be a coincidence but it is interesting to me.
Xavier Jones of Gary West Side announced that he will not be returning to school there because of a lack of recognition. I find that hard to believe especially since he played for SYF this past summer. He has offers from multiple D-1 programs. He will not be transferring to a prep school though but instead just a school somewhere in Ohio.
Jan Maehlen, formerly of Lawrence North, transferred to Arizona but I believe that is less basketball related than the other transfers. Lawrence North lost a lot of height with Jeff Robinson (Xavier) graduating, Chris Read graduating, Ferguson and Maehlen transferring. It should be an interesting year and LN like it is most years.
Enique Mason, formerly of Brownsburg, is also said to be transferring out of the state. He is rumored to be attending a school in Ohio. An interesting note, all the players listed in this article (Mason, Maehlen, Ferguson, Jones) all played on SYF this past summer. It may very well be a coincidence but it is interesting to me.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Winter Plans
I have decided to dedicate my winter to making this site the best it can be. I have come up with a list of schools I want to see play or at least practice. The list includes these schools...
Avon
Ben Davis
Bishop Chatard
Bloomington North
Bloomington South
Bowman Academy
Broad Ripple
Carmel
Centerville
Chesterton
Danville
Hamilton Southeastern
Howe
Lake Central
Lawrence Central
Lawrence North
Luers
Merrillville
Michigan City
Muncie Central
Munster
New Castle
North Central
Park Tudor
Rushville
Southport
Tech
Valparaiso
Warsaw
Winchester
Whitko
Zionsville
I'll definitely try to make it to games where teams on my list play each other and I will try to make it to some practices and individual work outs.
I will also spend my winter going to college games and practices. I plan on attending practices at Butler, Xavier, Indiana, Purdue, University of Indianapolis, and St. Joe's College.
It should make for a good winter. I should learn a lot about players and have a lot of player reports and game reports. I strive to make this site the best in player evaluations for college potential!
Avon
Ben Davis
Bishop Chatard
Bloomington North
Bloomington South
Bowman Academy
Broad Ripple
Carmel
Centerville
Chesterton
Danville
Hamilton Southeastern
Howe
Lake Central
Lawrence Central
Lawrence North
Luers
Merrillville
Michigan City
Muncie Central
Munster
New Castle
North Central
Park Tudor
Rushville
Southport
Tech
Valparaiso
Warsaw
Winchester
Whitko
Zionsville
I'll definitely try to make it to games where teams on my list play each other and I will try to make it to some practices and individual work outs.
I will also spend my winter going to college games and practices. I plan on attending practices at Butler, Xavier, Indiana, Purdue, University of Indianapolis, and St. Joe's College.
It should make for a good winter. I should learn a lot about players and have a lot of player reports and game reports. I strive to make this site the best in player evaluations for college potential!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Lots of Commitments
This past week has brought a lot of commitments from Indiana preps. Today, P.J. Hubert of Mount Vernon committed to IUPUI. One of the best shooters in the 2010 class in Indiana, Hubert should be able to come in and contribute for the Jaguars.
Recently, P.J. Boutee and Jordan Manuel of Howe High School in Indianapolis committed to Detroit on a recent visit. Manuel is a class of 2010 recruit and Boutee is a class of 2011 recruit. Manuel is a 6'8 wing with a lot of upside. Boutee is a 5'10 point guard that should be a good fit for Detroit.
Jack Isenbarger of Zionsville was rumored to be committing to Western Michigan, but has put that off for now.
Chrishawn Hopkins committed to Butler recently and Austin Etherington committed to Indiana University.
Recently, P.J. Boutee and Jordan Manuel of Howe High School in Indianapolis committed to Detroit on a recent visit. Manuel is a class of 2010 recruit and Boutee is a class of 2011 recruit. Manuel is a 6'8 wing with a lot of upside. Boutee is a 5'10 point guard that should be a good fit for Detroit.
Jack Isenbarger of Zionsville was rumored to be committing to Western Michigan, but has put that off for now.
Chrishawn Hopkins committed to Butler recently and Austin Etherington committed to Indiana University.
Monday, August 10, 2009
2012 Point Guard Rankings
Easily the deepest position in 2012 is the point guard spot. Especially if you put Gary Harris and Patrick Ingram as point guards. Both might be ranked as point guards in future rankings.
Again, I only rank players I have seen play so if I am missing someone that is probably the reason why they are not listed
Point Guards
1. D’Vauntes Smith-Rivera 6’3 North Central H- Can play 4 positions in high school and maybe 5 because he is so strong. Point guard is the position he will play at the higher levels. Crafty and competitive he just finds a way to get it done.
2. Yogi Ferrell 5’11 Park Tudor M+ Point guard that can score. Ferrell is very good with change of pace and hesitation moves. He has a good floater when he gets into the low. Becoming a three-point threat more consistently.
3. Kellon Thomas 5’10 Southport M Solid floor general, strong with the ball. Above average shooter needs to become a lights out shooter because I’m not sure if he has any growing left.
4. Harry Willis 6’1 Ben Davis M- Quick first step, good defender. Unsure of his outside shooting.
5. Logan Irwin 5’11 L Whitko M- Heady, strong point guard. Lacks the elite explosiveness right now.
6. D.J. Ballentine 5’10 Kokomo L+ Good shooter, finishes well in the lane.
7. D.J. Neal 5’11 Fort Wayne North L+
8. Ronnie Johnson 5’8 North Central L+
9. Mitch Yeagy 5’10 Alexandria L
10. Jacoby Bledsoe 5’10 Hamilton Southeastern L
Again, I only rank players I have seen play so if I am missing someone that is probably the reason why they are not listed
Point Guards
1. D’Vauntes Smith-Rivera 6’3 North Central H- Can play 4 positions in high school and maybe 5 because he is so strong. Point guard is the position he will play at the higher levels. Crafty and competitive he just finds a way to get it done.
2. Yogi Ferrell 5’11 Park Tudor M+ Point guard that can score. Ferrell is very good with change of pace and hesitation moves. He has a good floater when he gets into the low. Becoming a three-point threat more consistently.
3. Kellon Thomas 5’10 Southport M Solid floor general, strong with the ball. Above average shooter needs to become a lights out shooter because I’m not sure if he has any growing left.
4. Harry Willis 6’1 Ben Davis M- Quick first step, good defender. Unsure of his outside shooting.
5. Logan Irwin 5’11 L Whitko M- Heady, strong point guard. Lacks the elite explosiveness right now.
6. D.J. Ballentine 5’10 Kokomo L+ Good shooter, finishes well in the lane.
7. D.J. Neal 5’11 Fort Wayne North L+
8. Ronnie Johnson 5’8 North Central L+
9. Mitch Yeagy 5’10 Alexandria L
10. Jacoby Bledsoe 5’10 Hamilton Southeastern L
2012 Shooting Guard Rankings
The guards in the 2012 class look like they could be really special. They have multiple high-major guys...Rafael Davis has already committed to Purdue.
Shooting Guards
1. Ron Patterson 6’3 Broad Ripple H Explosive, good shooter, can be a great defender when he wants to. Weakest part of his game is his ball handling although it is not bad…it needs to be tightened up a little bit.
2. Gary Harris 6’3 Hamilton Southeastern H Didn’t play in July when I saw his team playing. He is a long, solid shooting guard that can play the point.
3. Rafael Davis 6’5 Fort Wayne South M+ I’m not as high on Davis as others just because I think he is physically matured and he isn’t very explosive to me. If he grows a little bit more than he doesn’t need to be very explosive because he will be so big.
4. Patrick Ingram 6’0 North Central M Quick, water bug type with a good outside stroke.
5. Travis Britt 6’3 Culver Academy M Power guard that can really get up and down the floor.
6. Mike Ramey 6’3 Southport M-
7. R.J. Hunter 6’2 Pike M- Rail thin but can really shoot the ball also very long wingspan.
Shooting Guards
1. Ron Patterson 6’3 Broad Ripple H Explosive, good shooter, can be a great defender when he wants to. Weakest part of his game is his ball handling although it is not bad…it needs to be tightened up a little bit.
2. Gary Harris 6’3 Hamilton Southeastern H Didn’t play in July when I saw his team playing. He is a long, solid shooting guard that can play the point.
3. Rafael Davis 6’5 Fort Wayne South M+ I’m not as high on Davis as others just because I think he is physically matured and he isn’t very explosive to me. If he grows a little bit more than he doesn’t need to be very explosive because he will be so big.
4. Patrick Ingram 6’0 North Central M Quick, water bug type with a good outside stroke.
5. Travis Britt 6’3 Culver Academy M Power guard that can really get up and down the floor.
6. Mike Ramey 6’3 Southport M-
7. R.J. Hunter 6’2 Pike M- Rail thin but can really shoot the ball also very long wingspan.
2012 Small Forward Rankings
The small forward position in 2012 could also be loaded depending on who you classify as a 3. You could make a case for Ron Patterson, Rafael Davis, Austin Burgett, Dejuan Marrero, and Travis Britt all being called a small forward. I decided to rank those guys in different positions for now.
Again, I only rank players that I have watched. That is why the list is relatively small.
Small Forwards
1. Jeremy Hollowell 6’6 Lawrence Central H Huge upside, extremely long, good outside shooter, gets to the rim from the perimeter at will. Struggles at time finishing at the rim, but strength should take care of that.
2. Rhett Smith 6’6 Sullivan M Most complete inside/outside player in the 2012 class that I’ve seen. Great post moves, very good pump fake and drive from the perimeter. A legit 6’5 if not taller, if he can get a couple more inches than his stock could really jump.
3. Mo Cross 6’3 Indianapolis Tech M
4. Jared Drew 6’4 Lawrence Central M- Good athleticism, gets to the rim at will right now, but can get out of control while driving.
5. Aloyis Gray 6’5 Brebeuf M- Extremely long, active rebounder.
Again, I only rank players that I have watched. That is why the list is relatively small.
Small Forwards
1. Jeremy Hollowell 6’6 Lawrence Central H Huge upside, extremely long, good outside shooter, gets to the rim from the perimeter at will. Struggles at time finishing at the rim, but strength should take care of that.
2. Rhett Smith 6’6 Sullivan M Most complete inside/outside player in the 2012 class that I’ve seen. Great post moves, very good pump fake and drive from the perimeter. A legit 6’5 if not taller, if he can get a couple more inches than his stock could really jump.
3. Mo Cross 6’3 Indianapolis Tech M
4. Jared Drew 6’4 Lawrence Central M- Good athleticism, gets to the rim at will right now, but can get out of control while driving.
5. Aloyis Gray 6’5 Brebeuf M- Extremely long, active rebounder.
2012 Power Forward Rankings
2012 is very deep in the 4 spot. If you classify Rhett Smith and Aloyis Gray as power forwards, which you could, then the position is very deep. I decided to put them as small forwards.
Again, I only rank kids I have seen play. That is why the list isn't very long.
Power Forwards
1. Austin Burgett 6’8 SF Avon H Can shoot, can put the ball on the floor, passes well, also rebounds. Added strength and aggressiveness could take his game to the next level, which is a very elite level.
2. Dejuan Marrero 6’6 SF Bowman M+ Active rebounder, good defensively, good motor. Doesn’t have many offensive skills right now.
3. Nick Osborne 6’6 PF Muncie Central M
4. Joel Smith 6’5 Heritage Christian L+
5. Brad Hartman 6’5 Union County L+
6. Jordan VanTreese 6’6 Lawrence North L+
Again, I only rank kids I have seen play. That is why the list isn't very long.
Power Forwards
1. Austin Burgett 6’8 SF Avon H Can shoot, can put the ball on the floor, passes well, also rebounds. Added strength and aggressiveness could take his game to the next level, which is a very elite level.
2. Dejuan Marrero 6’6 SF Bowman M+ Active rebounder, good defensively, good motor. Doesn’t have many offensive skills right now.
3. Nick Osborne 6’6 PF Muncie Central M
4. Joel Smith 6’5 Heritage Christian L+
5. Brad Hartman 6’5 Union County L+
6. Jordan VanTreese 6’6 Lawrence North L+
2012 Center Rankings
This is basically a rough draft for my 2012 rankings. I'm confident in the guys I rank, but I haven't seen a ton of 2012 kids. I only rank kids I have seen play so the list is a bit small.
Centers
1. A.J. Hammons 6’10 Carmel H Great size mixed with a bit of a mean streak makes him a top level prospect.
2. Edward Seay 6’8 Merrillville M+ Game could really go to another level if he was more aggressive and played a little bit tougher.
3. Brent Calhoun 6’7 Warren Central M Big time potential. College coaches love lefty big men because it is easier for them to block shots.
4. Keith Cochran 6’9 Bluffton M Very thin right now, strength would boost his game a lot.
Centers
1. A.J. Hammons 6’10 Carmel H Great size mixed with a bit of a mean streak makes him a top level prospect.
2. Edward Seay 6’8 Merrillville M+ Game could really go to another level if he was more aggressive and played a little bit tougher.
3. Brent Calhoun 6’7 Warren Central M Big time potential. College coaches love lefty big men because it is easier for them to block shots.
4. Keith Cochran 6’9 Bluffton M Very thin right now, strength would boost his game a lot.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Chrishawn Hopkins to Butler
Chrishawn Hopkins of Manual High has committed to Butler University. The 6'2 Hopkins blew up this spring and carried it into a good July that brought him multiple offers.
More here: http://hoosierhoopsreport.com/wpm/blog/2009/08/09/chrishawn-hopkins-cuts-recruiting-short-makes-his-choice/
More here: http://hoosierhoopsreport.com/wpm/blog/2009/08/09/chrishawn-hopkins-cuts-recruiting-short-makes-his-choice/
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Monday, August 3, 2009
Etherington to IU
Apparently, Austin Etherington has committed to Coach Tom Crean and IU. The 6'6 junior-to-be was offered by IU in June I believe. He also had offers from Butler, Oklahoma State, and Xavier.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
2010 Center Rankings
Center position is always limited which is one reason most colleges play 4 out and 1 in motion offense now. I took Jan Maehlen off the rankings because he is living in Arizona now. It is a very short list now.
2010 Centers
1. Travis Carrol 6’8 Danville H- The big fundamental, range to 17 feet. Weakness=Athleticism and needs to grow to be a big contributor for Purdue. He can still help them at his current height, but if he grows he will be very good for them. Verbal commit to Purdue
2. Ethan Jacobs 7’0 Tipton H- Long (obviously), good shot to 17 feet, developing post game, big time potential. Weakness=Raw, not very aggressive. Verbal commit to Ohio University.
3. Parker Stauffer 6’6 Southwood L- Smart, tough, good motor. Weakness=height, not a great offensive skill set. Verbal commit to Indiana Wesleyan.
4. Enique Mason 6’7 Brownsburg L– Wide body, developing some offensive moves. Weakness=motor, skill set.
2010 Centers
1. Travis Carrol 6’8 Danville H- The big fundamental, range to 17 feet. Weakness=Athleticism and needs to grow to be a big contributor for Purdue. He can still help them at his current height, but if he grows he will be very good for them. Verbal commit to Purdue
2. Ethan Jacobs 7’0 Tipton H- Long (obviously), good shot to 17 feet, developing post game, big time potential. Weakness=Raw, not very aggressive. Verbal commit to Ohio University.
3. Parker Stauffer 6’6 Southwood L- Smart, tough, good motor. Weakness=height, not a great offensive skill set. Verbal commit to Indiana Wesleyan.
4. Enique Mason 6’7 Brownsburg L– Wide body, developing some offensive moves. Weakness=motor, skill set.
2010 Power Forward Rankings
2010 has a good group of power forwards. DeShaun Thomas can broke Damon Bailey's Indiana state scoring record which is unbelievable but with another deep run in the state tournament it is within reach. Fromm and Hale are both very good players who will play their college basketball within the state.
2010 Power Forwards
1. DeShaun Thomas 6’7 Bishop Luers H Complete inside game, developing range, solid handles. Weakness=quicks as a 3 in the Big Ten, Height as a 4 in the Big Ten. Verbal commit to Ohio State
2. Erik Fromm 6’8 Bloomington South M+ Fundamental footwork, strong, finishes very well inside. Weakness=range although improving. Verbal commit to Butler.
3. Donnie Hale 6’7 New Albany M+ Quick, athletic, good rebounder, good shot blocker. Weakness=right hand and perimeter shooting. Verbal commit to Purdue
4. Jake Kitchell 6’8 South Central M- Good motor, solid athlete, can rebound out of his area. Weakness= not polished offensively.
5. Greg Miller 6’6 North Miami L- Good motor, strong, smart, range to 16 feet. Weakness=Height and doesn’t play AAU.
6. Jake Browne 6’6 Heritage Christian L Solid springs, pretty long, has a mid-range jumper, rebounds well.
7. DeArmond Davis 6’7 Mount Vernon L Okay motor, good athlete, but not a great athlete, raw. Weakness=Rawness
8. Thomas Anderson 6’7 Terre Haute North L- Solid frame, decent inside Weakness=athleticism
2010 Power Forwards
1. DeShaun Thomas 6’7 Bishop Luers H Complete inside game, developing range, solid handles. Weakness=quicks as a 3 in the Big Ten, Height as a 4 in the Big Ten. Verbal commit to Ohio State
2. Erik Fromm 6’8 Bloomington South M+ Fundamental footwork, strong, finishes very well inside. Weakness=range although improving. Verbal commit to Butler.
3. Donnie Hale 6’7 New Albany M+ Quick, athletic, good rebounder, good shot blocker. Weakness=right hand and perimeter shooting. Verbal commit to Purdue
4. Jake Kitchell 6’8 South Central M- Good motor, solid athlete, can rebound out of his area. Weakness= not polished offensively.
5. Greg Miller 6’6 North Miami L- Good motor, strong, smart, range to 16 feet. Weakness=Height and doesn’t play AAU.
6. Jake Browne 6’6 Heritage Christian L Solid springs, pretty long, has a mid-range jumper, rebounds well.
7. DeArmond Davis 6’7 Mount Vernon L Okay motor, good athlete, but not a great athlete, raw. Weakness=Rawness
8. Thomas Anderson 6’7 Terre Haute North L- Solid frame, decent inside Weakness=athleticism
2010 Small Forward Rankings
I have Dominique Ferguson still ranked although he is going to go to prep school next year. I will probably take him off the rankings once school starts and everything is official. Other than that, just minor changes to the small forward rankings.
2010 Small Forwards
1. Dominique Ferguson 6’9 Lawrence North(Prep School now) H Long, athletic, decent handles, improving shooter. Weakness=decision-making.
2. Justin Martin 6’7 Lawrence North H- Streaky shooter, athletic, long. Weakness=motor and consistency.
3. Russell Byrd 6’7 Blackhawk Christian H Long-range shooter, solid quicks. Weakness=handles. Verbal commit to Michigan State.
4. Jordan Manual 6’8 Howe M+ Long, streaky shooter, decent athlete. Weakness=motor
5. Daniel Turner 6’6 Mount Vernon M Strong, decent athlete, good touch around the basket, good motor. Weakness=range.
6.Khristian Smith 6’4 Pike L+ Long, decent athlete, streaky shooter. Weakness= motor and handles
7. Neal Beshears 6’6 Winchester L+ Slasher, good motor, rebounder, solid shooter, very long. Weakness=strength and finishing strong in the lane.
8. Andrew Rudakas 6’5 Wheeler L- Strong, physical, good motor, decent set shooter. Weakness=quicks, handles.
9. Chris Welker 6’4 Zionsville L- Strong, good motor, fundamental in the post. Weakness=quickness. Verbal commit to Army.
10. Leland Brown 6’4 Noblesville L- Solid athlete, decent penetrater. Weakness=motor, range.
11. A.J. Adams 6’4 Jeffersonville L- Strong body, solid athlete. Needs to improve offensive game.
12. Scott Lascowski 6’4 Carmel L- Kind of long, decent motor. Weakness=handles, shooting.
2010 Small Forwards
1. Dominique Ferguson 6’9 Lawrence North(Prep School now) H Long, athletic, decent handles, improving shooter. Weakness=decision-making.
2. Justin Martin 6’7 Lawrence North H- Streaky shooter, athletic, long. Weakness=motor and consistency.
3. Russell Byrd 6’7 Blackhawk Christian H Long-range shooter, solid quicks. Weakness=handles. Verbal commit to Michigan State.
4. Jordan Manual 6’8 Howe M+ Long, streaky shooter, decent athlete. Weakness=motor
5. Daniel Turner 6’6 Mount Vernon M Strong, decent athlete, good touch around the basket, good motor. Weakness=range.
6.Khristian Smith 6’4 Pike L+ Long, decent athlete, streaky shooter. Weakness= motor and handles
7. Neal Beshears 6’6 Winchester L+ Slasher, good motor, rebounder, solid shooter, very long. Weakness=strength and finishing strong in the lane.
8. Andrew Rudakas 6’5 Wheeler L- Strong, physical, good motor, decent set shooter. Weakness=quicks, handles.
9. Chris Welker 6’4 Zionsville L- Strong, good motor, fundamental in the post. Weakness=quickness. Verbal commit to Army.
10. Leland Brown 6’4 Noblesville L- Solid athlete, decent penetrater. Weakness=motor, range.
11. A.J. Adams 6’4 Jeffersonville L- Strong body, solid athlete. Needs to improve offensive game.
12. Scott Lascowski 6’4 Carmel L- Kind of long, decent motor. Weakness=handles, shooting.
2010 Shooting Guard Rankings
Some minor shifts in my shooting guard rankings. Chrishawn Hopkins is now a household name for college coaches. His grades are the only thing that could hold him back from going to a good program.
2010 Shooting Guards
1. Terone Johnson 6’3 North Central H- Great shooter, strong, improving slashing game. Weakness=handles for PG or height for SG. Verbal Commit to Purdue
2. Chrishawn Hopkins 6’1 Manual M+ Athlete, quick, consistent shooter to 23 feet. Weakness=Decision-making although he finds people well, he forces the pass at times.
3. Ronald Ross 6’3 Northwest M Strong, athletic, good finisher in the lane. Weakness= range
4. Julian Boatner 6’3 Bloomington North M- Quick, long, solid shooter. Weakness=handles and rail thin. Verbal commit to William and Mary
5. P.J. Hubbert 6’5 Mount Vernon M- Shooter, long, good rebounding guard, solid one dribble pull-up game. Weakness=handles
6. Kegan Clark 6’4 Jeffersonville L+ Very good defensively, long wingspan, finishes well although not a super athlete. Verbal commit to Wright State
7. Xavier Jones 6’2 Gary West L+ Solid athlete, slasher, decent handles. Weakness=finishing in the lane against bigger post men
8.Willie Rhodes 6’2 Warren Central L+ Quick, good motor, good slasher, good defender. Weakness=range
9. Roddy Richardson 6’2 Lafayette Jeff L+ Scorer, great motor, very tough. Weakness=consistency shooting.
10. Jordan Weidner 6’1 Danville L- Slasher, strong, decent shooter from the perimeter, finishes well at the rim for a small guard. Weakness=handles, decision making.
11. Brad Karp 6’2 Valparaiso L- Shooter, motor, rebounds well for a guard, smart player. Weakness=handles, quicks
2010 Shooting Guards
1. Terone Johnson 6’3 North Central H- Great shooter, strong, improving slashing game. Weakness=handles for PG or height for SG. Verbal Commit to Purdue
2. Chrishawn Hopkins 6’1 Manual M+ Athlete, quick, consistent shooter to 23 feet. Weakness=Decision-making although he finds people well, he forces the pass at times.
3. Ronald Ross 6’3 Northwest M Strong, athletic, good finisher in the lane. Weakness= range
4. Julian Boatner 6’3 Bloomington North M- Quick, long, solid shooter. Weakness=handles and rail thin. Verbal commit to William and Mary
5. P.J. Hubbert 6’5 Mount Vernon M- Shooter, long, good rebounding guard, solid one dribble pull-up game. Weakness=handles
6. Kegan Clark 6’4 Jeffersonville L+ Very good defensively, long wingspan, finishes well although not a super athlete. Verbal commit to Wright State
7. Xavier Jones 6’2 Gary West L+ Solid athlete, slasher, decent handles. Weakness=finishing in the lane against bigger post men
8.Willie Rhodes 6’2 Warren Central L+ Quick, good motor, good slasher, good defender. Weakness=range
9. Roddy Richardson 6’2 Lafayette Jeff L+ Scorer, great motor, very tough. Weakness=consistency shooting.
10. Jordan Weidner 6’1 Danville L- Slasher, strong, decent shooter from the perimeter, finishes well at the rim for a small guard. Weakness=handles, decision making.
11. Brad Karp 6’2 Valparaiso L- Shooter, motor, rebounds well for a guard, smart player. Weakness=handles, quicks
2010 Point Guard Rankings
Some minor shifts in my 2010 point guard rankings. The 2010 isn't has deep as we are used to in Indiana. The point guards are good, but not many big-time prospects.
2010 Point Guard Rankings
1. Jesse Berry 6’1 Lafayette Jeff H Scoring PG, quick, good range. Weakness=decision making and defense although he has improved both areas lately. Verbal commit to Dayton
2. Tyrae Robinson 6’1 Bowman Academy M Quick, strong, good vision. Unsure of his range.
3. Jack Isenbarger 6’2 Zionsville M Long, smart, solid shooter. Weakness=quickness to guard PG’s at high or mid-major level.
4. Kennis White 6’1 South Bend Washington M- Athlete, best post passer I have seen in class. Weakness=SG in PG body.
5. Brandon Demmings 6’2 Washington L Slasher, good mid-range game, long. Weakness=shooting range
6. Michael Harris 6’1 East Chicago L+ Haven’t seen enough for a true assessment.
7. Andre Hampton 6’1 Howe M- Scoring/Shoot first PG that is basically a SG. Weakness=handles and motor
8. Aaron Bluitt 6’1 Bishop Chatard L+ Scorer, finishes well, shooting range. Weakness=handles, defensive intensity
9. Jon Michael Jarvis - Terre Haute South L+ Penetrating PG, decent shooter
10. Brad Elam 5’10 Ben Davis L- Good range, solid pull-up game. Weakness=height and handles against pressure.
11. Taylor Wayer 5’11 Bishop Chatard L- Good range, strong, solid defender. Weakness=more of a SG in a PG body
2010 Point Guard Rankings
1. Jesse Berry 6’1 Lafayette Jeff H Scoring PG, quick, good range. Weakness=decision making and defense although he has improved both areas lately. Verbal commit to Dayton
2. Tyrae Robinson 6’1 Bowman Academy M Quick, strong, good vision. Unsure of his range.
3. Jack Isenbarger 6’2 Zionsville M Long, smart, solid shooter. Weakness=quickness to guard PG’s at high or mid-major level.
4. Kennis White 6’1 South Bend Washington M- Athlete, best post passer I have seen in class. Weakness=SG in PG body.
5. Brandon Demmings 6’2 Washington L Slasher, good mid-range game, long. Weakness=shooting range
6. Michael Harris 6’1 East Chicago L+ Haven’t seen enough for a true assessment.
7. Andre Hampton 6’1 Howe M- Scoring/Shoot first PG that is basically a SG. Weakness=handles and motor
8. Aaron Bluitt 6’1 Bishop Chatard L+ Scorer, finishes well, shooting range. Weakness=handles, defensive intensity
9. Jon Michael Jarvis - Terre Haute South L+ Penetrating PG, decent shooter
10. Brad Elam 5’10 Ben Davis L- Good range, solid pull-up game. Weakness=height and handles against pressure.
11. Taylor Wayer 5’11 Bishop Chatard L- Good range, strong, solid defender. Weakness=more of a SG in a PG body
2011 Small Forward Rankings
2011 Small Forwards
1. Branden Dawson 6’5 Gary Wallace H Athletic, good motor, finishes well in traffic against contact, okay shooter. Would like him to improve shooting.
2. Ryan Taylor 6’5 Lawrence North H- Strong and athletic right now. Needs to be more consistent from the outside and has been so far this summer. His game is expanding from a PF to a SF but he still has some work to do.
3. Austin Etherington 6’6 Hamilton Heights H- Shooter, long wingspan. Good ball handler and court vision. Lateral quickness is a question but has picked up offers from Indiana, Xavier, and Oklahoma State.
4. Dontray Chavis 6’4 Princeton M+ Skilled tweener(small forwad and power forward), quick, athletic, solid body, has some range to his jumper. Gets a bit out of control at times.
5. Steven Jamison 6’4 Broad Ripple M+ Long, streaky shooter, okay handles, good motor. More consistency from perimeter shooting would make him a great mid-major or higher prospect.
6. Chandler Thomas 6’5 Howe L+ Very good post player, good athlete, strong. Needs to become a wing.
7. Brian Stolarz 6’4 Munster L+ Strong, good jumper, okay set shooter, good rebounder. Not great with the ball…needs to improve ball-handling and overall perimeter skills.
8. Brandon Muncie 6'4 Lawrence North L+ Athletic, long windspan. If he can build his game around his great athleticism he could be very good.
9. Jackson Renshaw 6'4 Columbus East L+ Strong, solid athlete, decent ball-handling skills. Needs to improve consistency on jumper and decision making.
10. Jon Trawick 6’2 Richmond L Strong, athletic, good set shooter. Needs to improve ball handling and defense
11. Levi Garner 6'4 Edgewood L Strong, good penetrating skills. Lacks a consistent jumper..
12. Dwight Cliff 6’3 Ben Davis L Strong, good set shooter, solid rebounder. Needs to improve ball handling on drives and shooting off the dribble
1. Branden Dawson 6’5 Gary Wallace H Athletic, good motor, finishes well in traffic against contact, okay shooter. Would like him to improve shooting.
2. Ryan Taylor 6’5 Lawrence North H- Strong and athletic right now. Needs to be more consistent from the outside and has been so far this summer. His game is expanding from a PF to a SF but he still has some work to do.
3. Austin Etherington 6’6 Hamilton Heights H- Shooter, long wingspan. Good ball handler and court vision. Lateral quickness is a question but has picked up offers from Indiana, Xavier, and Oklahoma State.
4. Dontray Chavis 6’4 Princeton M+ Skilled tweener(small forwad and power forward), quick, athletic, solid body, has some range to his jumper. Gets a bit out of control at times.
5. Steven Jamison 6’4 Broad Ripple M+ Long, streaky shooter, okay handles, good motor. More consistency from perimeter shooting would make him a great mid-major or higher prospect.
6. Chandler Thomas 6’5 Howe L+ Very good post player, good athlete, strong. Needs to become a wing.
7. Brian Stolarz 6’4 Munster L+ Strong, good jumper, okay set shooter, good rebounder. Not great with the ball…needs to improve ball-handling and overall perimeter skills.
8. Brandon Muncie 6'4 Lawrence North L+ Athletic, long windspan. If he can build his game around his great athleticism he could be very good.
9. Jackson Renshaw 6'4 Columbus East L+ Strong, solid athlete, decent ball-handling skills. Needs to improve consistency on jumper and decision making.
10. Jon Trawick 6’2 Richmond L Strong, athletic, good set shooter. Needs to improve ball handling and defense
11. Levi Garner 6'4 Edgewood L Strong, good penetrating skills. Lacks a consistent jumper..
12. Dwight Cliff 6’3 Ben Davis L Strong, good set shooter, solid rebounder. Needs to improve ball handling on drives and shooting off the dribble
2011 Shooting Guard Rankings
2011 Shooting Guards
1. Zac VanDeWater 6’5 Whitko M+ Good shooter, solid handles, good defender although not super quick. Had a great July, shot very well and showed his complete game. Some muscle might improve his game greatly.
2. Kendall Griffin 6’4 Avon M+ Good shooter, rebounds well from a SG/SF, very fast up and down the floor, solid athlete. Would like him to handle it better and make better decisions at times
3. Spencer Turner 6’2 Bloomington South M Best shooter in the class, strong, smart player. Would like him to develop into more of a PG unless he grows. He might still grow and he is a gym rat so I expect him to expand his game.
4. Kenny Enoch 6’3 Howe M- Solid athlete, pretty long, good motor, good set shooter.
5. Conner Rich 6’3 Tipton L+ Pure shooter with legit range to 24 feet. Lacks great lateral quickness, but has good length. I’d put him as the 2nd best shooter behind Spencer Turner.
6. Evan Blackmon 6’1 Fort Wayne Luers L+ Explosive athlete, streaky shooter. Needs to be better with the ball i.e. limit turnovers and run an offense more often to become a point guard.
7. Chris Page 6’3 Plainfield L Solid length, good finisher inside, good shooter. Needs to improve ball handling
8. Colin Lynch 6’3 Roncali L Slasher, good set shooter, okay athlete. Needs to tighten up handles and passing a bit.
1. Zac VanDeWater 6’5 Whitko M+ Good shooter, solid handles, good defender although not super quick. Had a great July, shot very well and showed his complete game. Some muscle might improve his game greatly.
2. Kendall Griffin 6’4 Avon M+ Good shooter, rebounds well from a SG/SF, very fast up and down the floor, solid athlete. Would like him to handle it better and make better decisions at times
3. Spencer Turner 6’2 Bloomington South M Best shooter in the class, strong, smart player. Would like him to develop into more of a PG unless he grows. He might still grow and he is a gym rat so I expect him to expand his game.
4. Kenny Enoch 6’3 Howe M- Solid athlete, pretty long, good motor, good set shooter.
5. Conner Rich 6’3 Tipton L+ Pure shooter with legit range to 24 feet. Lacks great lateral quickness, but has good length. I’d put him as the 2nd best shooter behind Spencer Turner.
6. Evan Blackmon 6’1 Fort Wayne Luers L+ Explosive athlete, streaky shooter. Needs to be better with the ball i.e. limit turnovers and run an offense more often to become a point guard.
7. Chris Page 6’3 Plainfield L Solid length, good finisher inside, good shooter. Needs to improve ball handling
8. Colin Lynch 6’3 Roncali L Slasher, good set shooter, okay athlete. Needs to tighten up handles and passing a bit.
2011 Power Forward Rankings
2011 Power Forwards
1. Mitch McGary 6’9 Chesterton H Great touch around the basket, good shooting form to 18 feet, quick/good feet. Grades are a question mark for him.
2. Cody Zeller 6’8 Washington H- A Zeller nuff said. Runs well, shoots well, passes well. Developing quickly, but still ranked mainly off of potential. He has made huge strides since last summer and I expect him to continue that type of development.
3. Justin Gant 6’8 Terre Haute North M+ Solid set shooter from outside, good length, skilled. Aggressive/toughness on the defensive end and while rebounding will decide what level he plays.
4. Tyler Greathouse 6’8 Columbus North M Good outside shooter, good post moves. Very similar to Justin Gant, Greathouse needs to be more aggressive offensively and rebounding.
5. Tim Simmons 6’6 Pike L+ Good post moves, decent shooter, best thing going for him is his body...looks like a grown man.
6. Rontray Chavis 6’4 Princeton L+ Skilled tweener, quick, athletic, solid body. Can put the ball on the floor from the perimeter to get to the basket. Gets a bit out of control at times and more of a power forward than his brother.
7. Robert Pittman 6’7 Washington L Athletic, can put it on the floor a little bit. Needs to improve all around game.
8. Alex Prichett 6’6 Bedford North L Finishes well, solid body. Needs to improve post moves and expand range. He recently picked up an offer from Wright State
9. Brandon Herbert 6’6 Rushville L Good rebounder, good motor. Needs to improve shooting range and become more of a PF instead of pure center.
10. Colin Bowles 6’7 Franklin Central L Good motor, great timing for shot blocking. Needs to improve offensive game.
11. Matt Howard 6’5 Carmel L- Good pick and pop shooter, decent athlete. Good small college prospect if he gets playing time at Carmel.
1. Mitch McGary 6’9 Chesterton H Great touch around the basket, good shooting form to 18 feet, quick/good feet. Grades are a question mark for him.
2. Cody Zeller 6’8 Washington H- A Zeller nuff said. Runs well, shoots well, passes well. Developing quickly, but still ranked mainly off of potential. He has made huge strides since last summer and I expect him to continue that type of development.
3. Justin Gant 6’8 Terre Haute North M+ Solid set shooter from outside, good length, skilled. Aggressive/toughness on the defensive end and while rebounding will decide what level he plays.
4. Tyler Greathouse 6’8 Columbus North M Good outside shooter, good post moves. Very similar to Justin Gant, Greathouse needs to be more aggressive offensively and rebounding.
5. Tim Simmons 6’6 Pike L+ Good post moves, decent shooter, best thing going for him is his body...looks like a grown man.
6. Rontray Chavis 6’4 Princeton L+ Skilled tweener, quick, athletic, solid body. Can put the ball on the floor from the perimeter to get to the basket. Gets a bit out of control at times and more of a power forward than his brother.
7. Robert Pittman 6’7 Washington L Athletic, can put it on the floor a little bit. Needs to improve all around game.
8. Alex Prichett 6’6 Bedford North L Finishes well, solid body. Needs to improve post moves and expand range. He recently picked up an offer from Wright State
9. Brandon Herbert 6’6 Rushville L Good rebounder, good motor. Needs to improve shooting range and become more of a PF instead of pure center.
10. Colin Bowles 6’7 Franklin Central L Good motor, great timing for shot blocking. Needs to improve offensive game.
11. Matt Howard 6’5 Carmel L- Good pick and pop shooter, decent athlete. Good small college prospect if he gets playing time at Carmel.
2011 Point Guard Rankings
2011 Point Guards
1. Marquis Teague 6’2 Pike H One of the top players in the country for his class. Explosive, solid shooter, good handles. Can question his focus at times
2. Dee Davis 5’10 Bloomington South M+ Great decision maker, good handles, good outside shooter, quick. Height might hold him back from being an elite PG at the next level.
3. Matt Carlino 6’2 Bloomington South H- quick, smart, strong, slasher that is looking to pass first. Not a great shooter, but has time to improve that.
4. Jalen Packer 6’2 Princeton M Slashing point guard, long, leads well. Reminds me of Verdell Jones of IU…long, good creator, but gets loose with the ball at times.
5. Nic Moore 5’10 Warsaw M Solid shooter, strong although small, finishes well in the lane. Needs to be a knock down shooter so he can run an offense and knock down 3’s if he is left open
6. P.J. Boutee 5’9 Howe M- Quick, flashy, decent shooter. I would like him to cut down on his spin dribbles…asking to be trapped at higher levels. Right now, he gets away with it.
7. Jordan Hahn 5’10 New Castle L+ Leader, good decision maker,good defender at this level, improving shooter. Needs to handle intense ball pressure better
8. Jonny Marlin 5’11 Center Grove L+ Smart, solid shooter, good ball handler. Would like him to be more aggressive offensively but he runs a team well,would like him to add some muscle.
9. Ken Mullen 5'11 Fort Wayne Luers L+ Strong, good defender. Needs some work on the offensive end.
10. Greg Dickey 5’11 Tipton L Feisty, good worker, solid with the ball. Downside is height and not a lights out shooter
11. Phil Miller 5’10 Fishers L- Good slasher, quick, finishes pretty well when he gets into the lane. Not a great shooter.
12. Brandon Ledford 5'11 Decatur Central L Slashing pass first point guard or looking to finish in the lane.
13. Christian Ford 5’10 Pike L Score first PG, very good penetrator. Will get out of control and force bad shots
1. Marquis Teague 6’2 Pike H One of the top players in the country for his class. Explosive, solid shooter, good handles. Can question his focus at times
2. Dee Davis 5’10 Bloomington South M+ Great decision maker, good handles, good outside shooter, quick. Height might hold him back from being an elite PG at the next level.
3. Matt Carlino 6’2 Bloomington South H- quick, smart, strong, slasher that is looking to pass first. Not a great shooter, but has time to improve that.
4. Jalen Packer 6’2 Princeton M Slashing point guard, long, leads well. Reminds me of Verdell Jones of IU…long, good creator, but gets loose with the ball at times.
5. Nic Moore 5’10 Warsaw M Solid shooter, strong although small, finishes well in the lane. Needs to be a knock down shooter so he can run an offense and knock down 3’s if he is left open
6. P.J. Boutee 5’9 Howe M- Quick, flashy, decent shooter. I would like him to cut down on his spin dribbles…asking to be trapped at higher levels. Right now, he gets away with it.
7. Jordan Hahn 5’10 New Castle L+ Leader, good decision maker,good defender at this level, improving shooter. Needs to handle intense ball pressure better
8. Jonny Marlin 5’11 Center Grove L+ Smart, solid shooter, good ball handler. Would like him to be more aggressive offensively but he runs a team well,would like him to add some muscle.
9. Ken Mullen 5'11 Fort Wayne Luers L+ Strong, good defender. Needs some work on the offensive end.
10. Greg Dickey 5’11 Tipton L Feisty, good worker, solid with the ball. Downside is height and not a lights out shooter
11. Phil Miller 5’10 Fishers L- Good slasher, quick, finishes pretty well when he gets into the lane. Not a great shooter.
12. Brandon Ledford 5'11 Decatur Central L Slashing pass first point guard or looking to finish in the lane.
13. Christian Ford 5’10 Pike L Score first PG, very good penetrator. Will get out of control and force bad shots
2011 Combo Guard Rankings
2011 Combo Guards
1. Jeremiah Davis 6’3 Muncie Central H Power guard, athletic,can get to the rim at will right now, solid set shot from the perimeter. Needs to improve his decision making.
2. Alexander Hutson 6’1 Tipton M- Shooter, deceptively athletic, solid vision. Would like better ball handling and better defense without so much unwarranted gambling.
3. Torrey Nibbs 6’1 Brownsburg L+ Athlete, great first step, strong. Needs to improve handles, decision making and shooting
4. Spencer Comer 6’3 Rushville L+ Great lateral quickness, strong, good motor, works very hard, good leader. Needs better handles and consistency from the outside.
5. Matt Schauss 6’2 Centerville L+ Lights out shooter, long, okay handles. Probably not big enough to be a pure shooting guard at the D-1 level and probably not quick enough to be a pure point guard. Lacks great intensity at most times.
6. Eric Harris 6’2 Lawrence North L+ Long, crafty, good rebounder. Needs to improve handles and more consistent shooting. I would like him to become a pure point guard.
7. Max Landis 6’0 Perry Meridian L Good shooter, finishes well in the lane, decent handles. Not a great defender, would like him to add some muscle.
8. Tyler Hall 6’2 Danville L Smart, pass first, good defender. More consistency from the outside is needed.
1. Jeremiah Davis 6’3 Muncie Central H Power guard, athletic,can get to the rim at will right now, solid set shot from the perimeter. Needs to improve his decision making.
2. Alexander Hutson 6’1 Tipton M- Shooter, deceptively athletic, solid vision. Would like better ball handling and better defense without so much unwarranted gambling.
3. Torrey Nibbs 6’1 Brownsburg L+ Athlete, great first step, strong. Needs to improve handles, decision making and shooting
4. Spencer Comer 6’3 Rushville L+ Great lateral quickness, strong, good motor, works very hard, good leader. Needs better handles and consistency from the outside.
5. Matt Schauss 6’2 Centerville L+ Lights out shooter, long, okay handles. Probably not big enough to be a pure shooting guard at the D-1 level and probably not quick enough to be a pure point guard. Lacks great intensity at most times.
6. Eric Harris 6’2 Lawrence North L+ Long, crafty, good rebounder. Needs to improve handles and more consistent shooting. I would like him to become a pure point guard.
7. Max Landis 6’0 Perry Meridian L Good shooter, finishes well in the lane, decent handles. Not a great defender, would like him to add some muscle.
8. Tyler Hall 6’2 Danville L Smart, pass first, good defender. More consistency from the outside is needed.
2011 Center Rankings
Not much change in my center rankings for 2011.
Centers
1. Michael Chandler 6’11 Lawrence North H Big man with solid hands, runs pretty well, aggressive for a young big man. Will he continue to work on his game or be happy for what he has got?
2. Tony Springmann 6’7 Fort Wayne Dwenger M+ Powerful big man, great motor and rebounder, solid shot to 14 feet. A face-up game would shoot him up the rankings.
3. Isiah Hill 6’10 Howe M- Huge kid, doesn’t run too well. Has been out most of the spring.
4. Ben Davisson 6’9 Renesselar Central L+ Huge body, huge hands, decent touch around the basket. Can hit 15 foot jumper if left open, struggles when he puts the ball on the floor in the post.
5. Alec Peterson 6’9 Carmel L Long, finishes okay in the lane. Plays passively and without much energy.
6. Michael Nesbitt 6’6 Evansville Memorial L Solid body, good rebounder, needs to work on offensive skills.
7. Wade Thomas 6’8 Western Boone L Super raw, good motor, plays with energy, good form on shot to 15 feet. Just needs experience and work on post game along with added strength.
Centers
1. Michael Chandler 6’11 Lawrence North H Big man with solid hands, runs pretty well, aggressive for a young big man. Will he continue to work on his game or be happy for what he has got?
2. Tony Springmann 6’7 Fort Wayne Dwenger M+ Powerful big man, great motor and rebounder, solid shot to 14 feet. A face-up game would shoot him up the rankings.
3. Isiah Hill 6’10 Howe M- Huge kid, doesn’t run too well. Has been out most of the spring.
4. Ben Davisson 6’9 Renesselar Central L+ Huge body, huge hands, decent touch around the basket. Can hit 15 foot jumper if left open, struggles when he puts the ball on the floor in the post.
5. Alec Peterson 6’9 Carmel L Long, finishes okay in the lane. Plays passively and without much energy.
6. Michael Nesbitt 6’6 Evansville Memorial L Solid body, good rebounder, needs to work on offensive skills.
7. Wade Thomas 6’8 Western Boone L Super raw, good motor, plays with energy, good form on shot to 15 feet. Just needs experience and work on post game along with added strength.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Orlando Update
I've been in Orlando for a full 24 hours now. It has been pretty laid back with lots of stories being told in our "coaches suite" that we have.
I've only watched a few games and only one game involving an Indiana team. I'm in the process of re-ranking all my players and working on new evaluations if necessary. There isn't a lot of movement in my rankings, but I think there is a need for slight adjusting.
I do my rankings based on current skill set and potential for development and potential of their game translating well to the next level. Some things just do not translate well from level to level.
I'll have more updates tomorrow night as I expect to get some solid game watching in tomorrow. Tuesday will probably be a full day of observing games. Then tournament play begins in the 17U AAU Nationals.
I've only watched a few games and only one game involving an Indiana team. I'm in the process of re-ranking all my players and working on new evaluations if necessary. There isn't a lot of movement in my rankings, but I think there is a need for slight adjusting.
I do my rankings based on current skill set and potential for development and potential of their game translating well to the next level. Some things just do not translate well from level to level.
I'll have more updates tomorrow night as I expect to get some solid game watching in tomorrow. Tuesday will probably be a full day of observing games. Then tournament play begins in the 17U AAU Nationals.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Orlando
I'm sitting in the Indy Airport as we speak on my way to Chicago and then heading to Orlando. It will make for a long evening, but that is expected when you are "ballin on a budget" as some would say.
AAU Nationals is the tournament I am going down to coach in. The actual AAU tournaments have seen a decline in attendance in recent years. The national tournament is still attended pretty well, but they fill in a lot of spots with Florida teams. The state tournament is almost dead in Indiana. Lots of teams use out of state players and too many players on their team are grade exceptions to compete in the state tournament.
Also, most teams opt to go to Vegas in July so they have no reason to play in the state tournament other than bragging rights. Most don't want to go through the paperwork to compete in what works out to be a one weekend tournament (if they aren't going to go to the national tournament if they qualify).
Orlando is a good set-up with a good amount of courts in one location. Vegas is spread out a lot and a good portion of game sites only have one or two courts. Orlando also has the Nike Showcase tournament the week before the National tournament which allows teams to stay in one location for 10 days which makes travel easier.
Time to board!
AAU Nationals is the tournament I am going down to coach in. The actual AAU tournaments have seen a decline in attendance in recent years. The national tournament is still attended pretty well, but they fill in a lot of spots with Florida teams. The state tournament is almost dead in Indiana. Lots of teams use out of state players and too many players on their team are grade exceptions to compete in the state tournament.
Also, most teams opt to go to Vegas in July so they have no reason to play in the state tournament other than bragging rights. Most don't want to go through the paperwork to compete in what works out to be a one weekend tournament (if they aren't going to go to the national tournament if they qualify).
Orlando is a good set-up with a good amount of courts in one location. Vegas is spread out a lot and a good portion of game sites only have one or two courts. Orlando also has the Nike Showcase tournament the week before the National tournament which allows teams to stay in one location for 10 days which makes travel easier.
Time to board!
Saturday, July 18, 2009
2011 Center Rankings
True Centers are hard to find especially in Indiana. I tried to limit who I put into this category because most kids are more like Power Forwards than they are Centers.
2011 Centers
1. Michael Chandler 6’11 Lawrence North H Big man with solid hands, runs pretty well, aggressive for a young big man. Will he continue to work on his game or be happy for what he has got?
2. Tony Springmann 6’7 Fort Wayne Dwenger M+ Powerful big man, great motor and rebounder, solid shot to 14 feet. A face-up game would shoot him up the rankings.
3. Isiah Hill 6’10 Howe M- Huge kid, doesn’t run too well. Has been out most of the spring.
4. Ben Davisson 6’9 Renesselar Central L+ Huge body, huge hands, decent touch around the basket. No range, struggles when he puts the ball on the floor in the post.
5. Alec Peterson 6’9 Carmel L Long, finishes okay in the lane. Plays uber passively and without much energy.
6. Wade Thomas 6’8 Western Boone L+ Super raw, good motor, plays with energy, good form on shot to 15 feet. Just needs experience and work on post game along with added strength.
2011 Centers
1. Michael Chandler 6’11 Lawrence North H Big man with solid hands, runs pretty well, aggressive for a young big man. Will he continue to work on his game or be happy for what he has got?
2. Tony Springmann 6’7 Fort Wayne Dwenger M+ Powerful big man, great motor and rebounder, solid shot to 14 feet. A face-up game would shoot him up the rankings.
3. Isiah Hill 6’10 Howe M- Huge kid, doesn’t run too well. Has been out most of the spring.
4. Ben Davisson 6’9 Renesselar Central L+ Huge body, huge hands, decent touch around the basket. No range, struggles when he puts the ball on the floor in the post.
5. Alec Peterson 6’9 Carmel L Long, finishes okay in the lane. Plays uber passively and without much energy.
6. Wade Thomas 6’8 Western Boone L+ Super raw, good motor, plays with energy, good form on shot to 15 feet. Just needs experience and work on post game along with added strength.
2011 Power Forward Rankings
2011 Power Forward Rankings
1. Mitch McGary 6’9 Chesterton H Great touch around the basket, good shooting form to 18 feet, quick/good feet. Grades are a question mark for him.
2. Cody Zeller 6’8 Washington M+ A Zeller nuff said. Runs well, shoots well, passes well. If he adds a dribble game to his offense he will go high major.
3. Justin Gant 6’8 Terre Haute North M+ Solid set shooter from outside, good length, skilled. Needs to be more aggressive and improve handles.
4. Tyler Greathouse 6’8 Columbus North M Good outside shooter, good post moves. Needs to be more aggressive offensively and rebounding.
5. Tim Simmons 6’6 Pike L+ Good post moves, decent shooter, best thing going for him is his body...looks like a grown man.
6. Rontray Chavis 6’4 Princeton L+ Skilled tweener, quick, athletic, solid body. Gets a bit out of control at times and more of a power forward than his brother.
7. Robert Pittman 6’7 Washington L Athletic, can put it on the floor a little bit. Needs to improve all around game.
8. Brandon Herbert 6’6 Rushville L Good rebounder, good motor. Needs to improve shooting range and become more of a PF instead of pure center.
9. Colin Bowles 6’7 Franklin Central L Good motor, great timing for shot blocking. Needs to improve offensive game.
10. Alex Prichett 6’6 Bedford North L Finishes well, solid body. Needs to improve post moves
1. Mitch McGary 6’9 Chesterton H Great touch around the basket, good shooting form to 18 feet, quick/good feet. Grades are a question mark for him.
2. Cody Zeller 6’8 Washington M+ A Zeller nuff said. Runs well, shoots well, passes well. If he adds a dribble game to his offense he will go high major.
3. Justin Gant 6’8 Terre Haute North M+ Solid set shooter from outside, good length, skilled. Needs to be more aggressive and improve handles.
4. Tyler Greathouse 6’8 Columbus North M Good outside shooter, good post moves. Needs to be more aggressive offensively and rebounding.
5. Tim Simmons 6’6 Pike L+ Good post moves, decent shooter, best thing going for him is his body...looks like a grown man.
6. Rontray Chavis 6’4 Princeton L+ Skilled tweener, quick, athletic, solid body. Gets a bit out of control at times and more of a power forward than his brother.
7. Robert Pittman 6’7 Washington L Athletic, can put it on the floor a little bit. Needs to improve all around game.
8. Brandon Herbert 6’6 Rushville L Good rebounder, good motor. Needs to improve shooting range and become more of a PF instead of pure center.
9. Colin Bowles 6’7 Franklin Central L Good motor, great timing for shot blocking. Needs to improve offensive game.
10. Alex Prichett 6’6 Bedford North L Finishes well, solid body. Needs to improve post moves
2011 Shooting Guard Rankings
2011 Shooting Guards
1. Zac VanDeWater 6’5 Whitko M+ Good shooter, solid handles, good defender although not super quick. Some muscle might improve his game greatly.
2. Kendal Griffin 6’4 Avon M+ Good shooter, rebounds well from a SG/SF, very fast up and down the floor, solid athlete. Would like him to handle it better and make better decisions at times.
3. Spencer Turner 6’2 Bloomington South M Best shooter in the class, strong, smart player. Would like him to develop into more of a PG unless he grows.
4. Kenny Enoch 6’3 M- Howe Solid athlete, pretty long, good motor, good set shooter.
5. Evan Blackmon 6’1 Fort Wayne Luers L+ Explosive athlete, streaky shooter. Needs to be better with the ball i.e. limit turnovers and run an offense more often to become a point guard.
6. Chris Page 6’3 Plainfield L Solid length, good finisher inside, good shooter. Needs to improve ball handling
7. Colin Lynch 6’3 Roncali L Slasher, good set shooter, okay athlete. Needs to tighten up handles and passing a bit.
1. Zac VanDeWater 6’5 Whitko M+ Good shooter, solid handles, good defender although not super quick. Some muscle might improve his game greatly.
2. Kendal Griffin 6’4 Avon M+ Good shooter, rebounds well from a SG/SF, very fast up and down the floor, solid athlete. Would like him to handle it better and make better decisions at times.
3. Spencer Turner 6’2 Bloomington South M Best shooter in the class, strong, smart player. Would like him to develop into more of a PG unless he grows.
4. Kenny Enoch 6’3 M- Howe Solid athlete, pretty long, good motor, good set shooter.
5. Evan Blackmon 6’1 Fort Wayne Luers L+ Explosive athlete, streaky shooter. Needs to be better with the ball i.e. limit turnovers and run an offense more often to become a point guard.
6. Chris Page 6’3 Plainfield L Solid length, good finisher inside, good shooter. Needs to improve ball handling
7. Colin Lynch 6’3 Roncali L Slasher, good set shooter, okay athlete. Needs to tighten up handles and passing a bit.
2011 Small Forward Rankings
Continuing my update of 2011 rankings, this time I have the small forward position.
2011 Small Forwards
1. Branden Dawson 6’5 Gary Wallace H Athletic, good motor, finishes well in traffic against contact, okay shooter. Would like him to improve shooting.
2. Ryan Taylor 6’5 Lawrence North H- Strong and athletic right now. Needs to be more consistent from the outside and has been so far this summer.
3. Austin Etherington 6’6 Hamilton Heights M+ Shooter, long wingspan, still trying to get back to where he was before surgery. Lateral quickness is a question but has picked up offers from Indiana, Xavier, and Oklahoma State.
4. Dontray Chavis 6’4 Princeton M+ Skilled tweener(small forwad and power forward), quick, athletic, solid body, has some range to his jumper. Gets a bit out of control at times.
5. Stevie Jamison 6’4 Broad Ripple M+ Long, streaky shooter, okay handles, good motor. More consistency from perimeter shooting would make him a great mid-major or higher prospect.
6. Chandler Thomas 6’5 Howe L+ Very good post player, good athlete, strong. Needs to become a wing.
7. Brian Stolarz 6’4 Munster L+ Strong, good jumper, okay set shooter, good rebounder. Not great with the ball…needs to improve ball-handling and overall perimeter skills.
8. Brandon Muncie 6'4 Lawrence North L+ Athletic, long windspan. If he can build his game around his great athleticism he could be very good.
9. Jackson Renshaw 6'4 Columbus East L+ Strong, solid athlete, decent ball-handling skills. Needs to improve consistency on jumper and decision making.
10. Levi Garner 6'4 Edgewood L Strong, good penetrating skills. Lacks a consistent jumper.
11. Jon Trawick 6’2 Richmond L Strong, athletic, good set shooter. Needs to improve ball handling and defense.
12. Dwight Cliff 6’3 Ben Davis L Strong, good set shooter, solid rebounder. Needs to improve ball handling on drives and shooting off the dribble.
2011 Small Forwards
1. Branden Dawson 6’5 Gary Wallace H Athletic, good motor, finishes well in traffic against contact, okay shooter. Would like him to improve shooting.
2. Ryan Taylor 6’5 Lawrence North H- Strong and athletic right now. Needs to be more consistent from the outside and has been so far this summer.
3. Austin Etherington 6’6 Hamilton Heights M+ Shooter, long wingspan, still trying to get back to where he was before surgery. Lateral quickness is a question but has picked up offers from Indiana, Xavier, and Oklahoma State.
4. Dontray Chavis 6’4 Princeton M+ Skilled tweener(small forwad and power forward), quick, athletic, solid body, has some range to his jumper. Gets a bit out of control at times.
5. Stevie Jamison 6’4 Broad Ripple M+ Long, streaky shooter, okay handles, good motor. More consistency from perimeter shooting would make him a great mid-major or higher prospect.
6. Chandler Thomas 6’5 Howe L+ Very good post player, good athlete, strong. Needs to become a wing.
7. Brian Stolarz 6’4 Munster L+ Strong, good jumper, okay set shooter, good rebounder. Not great with the ball…needs to improve ball-handling and overall perimeter skills.
8. Brandon Muncie 6'4 Lawrence North L+ Athletic, long windspan. If he can build his game around his great athleticism he could be very good.
9. Jackson Renshaw 6'4 Columbus East L+ Strong, solid athlete, decent ball-handling skills. Needs to improve consistency on jumper and decision making.
10. Levi Garner 6'4 Edgewood L Strong, good penetrating skills. Lacks a consistent jumper.
11. Jon Trawick 6’2 Richmond L Strong, athletic, good set shooter. Needs to improve ball handling and defense.
12. Dwight Cliff 6’3 Ben Davis L Strong, good set shooter, solid rebounder. Needs to improve ball handling on drives and shooting off the dribble.
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