Vantage Hoops Combine: 2017 Standouts (Part 2)
Kimani Donovan (Deep Run)
Kimani Donovan is a skilled combo guard who demonstrated good explosiveness. On Saturday, he used his quick first-step and tight handle to attack the basket and create space for himself to operate on the perimeter. Donovan caught fire. He went on a notable hot streak, cashing in about 3 or 4 consecutive shots from deep. The US Virgin Islands Junior National Team standout is a hot prospect who’s due for a break-out season at Deep Run.
Aaron Martin (Martinsville)
A two-sport standout (football) at Martinsville, Aaron Martin came in and put together a strong performance at Spectrum on Saturday. He’s a big, strong, athletic 6’3 wing who showed the ability to create for himself or his teammates offensively. He demonstrated a very good mid-range game and finished efficiently around the rim. He also rebounded the ball very well. Martin should begin attracting more college interest as he will inherit an even bigger role during his junior season.
Malik Johnson (George Wythe)
Up to about 6’4 1/2 now, Malik Johnson is a big, skilled guard with a marvelous understanding of the game. He’s an ambidextrous passer who can thread the needle from just about anywhere on the court. His length enables him to effectively rebound in traffic and harass opponents on the perimeter. His shooting touch has improved as well. His size and remarkable feel make him an attractive point guard prospect. He will lead a talented George Wythe team with high hopes this season.
Brendan Newton (Faith Christian)
Few were surprised to see Brendan Newton absolutely dominate the Mikan drill exercises during the initial phases of the combine. The 7’2 center alternated hands, repeatedly slamming the ball through the basket. Newton demonstrated much improved quickness and athleticism throughout the afternoon, dominating as a rim protector and defensive anchor. He is becoming comfortable knocking down the 10-15 foot mid-range jumper now as well. He’s a gym who continuously improves each time we see him.
Dominique Joyce (Patrick Henry)
Dominique Joyce is a mobile, athletic 6’5 forward who owns nice footwork and strong hands. Joyce is versatile enough to defend in the post or on the perimeter. He ran the floor well, finished efficiently, and effectively contested shots at the rim on the defensive end. The lefty displayed a confident perimeter jump shot. He is becoming more comfortable shooting with his feet set out to the three point arc. The PH standout should break out in his junior year.
Vonkuren Saunders (Patrick Henry)
Vonkuren Saunders brought consistent energy on both ends of the floor on Saturday. He’s a shifty PG who carves up defenses off the bounce. Saunders distributed the ball evenly and accurately to his teammates. He’s making the switch from Fleming to PH, and should pair nicely alongside fellow junior Dom Joyce.
Joe Davis III (Battlefield)
Joe Davis III exhibited a nice all-around performance on Saturday. The lanky 6’2 guard is a talented scorer who revealed an exceptional ability to break down defenders off the dribble and create space. He displayed good patience and shot selection offensively. Defensively, he did a good job using his length and quickness to pressure his opponents into mistakes. He’ll need to continue to add strength to his frame, but he’s developing a reputation as a tough cover.
Austin Malone (Kettle Run)
Kettle Run SG Austin Malone is not the biggest guard, but compromises well for it with his solid skill-set and endless work-rate. Malone is a workhorse who attacked the offensive and defensive glass hard. Although he was a bit bashful at times, passing up a few open looks, he displayed good shooting form. He did a good job of slashing to the basket and finishing ambidextrously around the rim. Malone announced himself as a nice under-the-radar prospect who we will continue to track moving forward.