Recruiting Report: Sam Lash (2017)
For Sam Lash (2017), a 6’4” guard for Centerville High School (Dayton), the three-point shot sets up the rest of his offensive attack. “It really keeps that defender in an uncomfortable position,” Lash said, of his three-point threat. If the…
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Continue ReadingFor Sam Lash (2017), a 6’4” guard for Centerville High School (Dayton), the three-point shot sets up the rest of his offensive attack.
“It really keeps that defender in an uncomfortable position,” Lash said, of his three-point threat.
If the opposing defense doesn’t scheme to keep a guy glued on Lash, he’s going to make them pay for it. He shot an impressive 40% from deep as a junior. Lash sometimes uses that attention to his favor by shot faking and driving or cutting off-ball on over-committed defenders.
Playing in a “motion” offense alongside a drive-and-kick backcourt mate, like Keegan Saben, is a recipe for success. Along with team unity, Lash mentioned that a familiar offensive style could be a factor in his college decision.
“The way they run their offense is key to me … If I know how to run motion, that’s what Centerville runs, then I feel like I can start right off the bat, and make an impact on the team,” Lash said.
As far as recruitment, Lash has been receiving significant interest from Division III schools, and a pair of in-state Division IIs.
“I’ve gone on a couple visits, to Heidelberg about two weeks ago. I went to Trine University, that was on Friday. And then I visited Malone University, a Division II school, in Canton [on Tuesday]. And then Marietta is also interested. And Capital in Columbus has been contacting me,” Lash said.
“I really love Trine. That was probably my best visit so far. I really like the guys, they’re all together. No matter what they’re doing, whether that’s eating, playing, or just joking around. They’re all together.”
Trine is a D-III program in Indiana with plenty of talent from the Buckeye State, including former Centerville standout, Kyle Dodson.
Lash will be asked to show some defensive versatility this upcoming season. He mentioned strength and quickness as areas he’d like to improve, and he’ll have plenty of opportunities to showcase that progress this year.
“We are going to be short this year … I’m usually used to playing 2 or 3. But this year I’m going to be asked to play 4, maybe even 5. Just whatever my coach needs me for,” Lash said.
When defending his natural position, the 2-guard, Lash has a length advantage that he uses in passing lanes. Prep Hoops would expect him to move back to guard position in college, but he could show the ability to slide down into a stretch-4 role this season, possibly opening up his recruitment further.
Regardless, in Lash you’re looking at a high-IQ shooter with a 3.0 GPA and a willingness to improve. When asked about his expectations for Centerville this season, his answer showcased maturity.
“I think it’s just get better each and every day,” Lash said. As for him personally, he’s in the weight room to improve his ability in the lane and spending time on his mechanics from the free throw line.
photo: topbillingsports.com