Colorado’s Top Small-School Guard Prospects To Watch In July — Part I
This month is a big one for the class of 2017. While much attention is paid nationally to the major shoe circuits, there are players in countless other tournaments across the country aiming to be noticed by schools of all levels.
With many of these players beginning their big month as early as tonight and tomorrow, we are taking a look at some of the top Division II, III and NAIA level prospects at various positions still searching for a landing spot.
This isn’t to say some of these players couldn’t possibly land with a Division I program, but who would have a strong shot at making a strong impact at the D-II level and below.
Oscar Maldonado, 6-3, Colorado Titans
Playing at the Next Level Invitational with the Titans this weekend, Maldonado will no doubt put has versatile set of talents on display, including a good nose for the bucket on the offensive end. He reminds one a bit of Colorado Mines standout Gokul Natesan in the way he finds multiple ways to score the ball, understanding how to use angles to get by quicker defenders.
Luke Wilson, 6-1, Colorado Titans
While slightly undersized, Wilson has an next-level skill as a long range shooter. The lefty is one of the state’s best behind the 3-point arc. He also brings a great set of intangibles to the table as an extremely high-academic student-athlete, and his coaches rave about his bottom-line desire to win.
Michael Ward, 6-1, Colorado Titans
Ward has continued to grow in leaps and bounds over the past year, showcasing an ability to run a team from the point guard position. He’s a strong decision-maker and has the ability to guard well on the perimeter.
Jamison Washington, 6-2, Colorado Chaos
A combo guard who has shown he can be equally effective off the ball and on it while playing alongside standout Colbey Ross. We know Washington has worked hard on adding a mid-range game to an already strong ability to get to the rim. This could be a big month for him.
Tanner Ervin, 5-10, Power 2 Play
Local small-college coaches can get a shot to see Ervin at this weekend’s 5280 Championships in Golden. He’s one of the best small-school players in Colorado and was among Colorado’s leading scorers last season, regardless of classification. He’s got great range.
Joe Abiakam, 6-2, Shining Stars
A pass-first point guard who can also play off the ball, Abiakam is a player who will do a lot of little things at a high level. Smart with the ball in his hands.
Malik Salley, 6-3, Colorado Miners
Salley is an essential glue piece for a talented Miners squad. He’s a great athlete who is a quality rim protector, even at only 6-3. Salley has worked hard to improve his ball-handling ability and jump shot, as he’ll likely have to play a guard spot at the next level. His motor and athleticism make him an intriguing small-school prospect.