Final Four Preview: Unsigned Seniors to Watch
To begin our preview coverage of the Final Four, which begins at 10:45AM on Thursday, let’s pay homage to the seniors. Specifically, the seniors who haven’t quite yet found a home for next season.
These are all players who are likely to play college ball. The players listed range from role players to high school superstars; they’re listed in no particular order.
Daniel McGarry, 6’4” F, VASJ
While McGarry’s shooting mechanics are fine, expect him to operate mostly around the rim. McGarry is a heady cutter. Once he finds himself with the ball around the rim, his game is almost European, using mostly pump-fakes and good footwork to score.
Kelvin Calhoun, 6’6” F/C, Lakewood St. Edward
Calhoun is a big body who utilizes that strength by banging down low. He’ll have his hands full in the Semifinal against Massillon Jackson’s, Logan Hill. While it’s going to be a task, expect Calhoun to try to push him off the block. Calhoun will inevitably drop in a few buckets with his back to the basket. His rebounding/boxing out is going to be crucial.
Torrey Patton, 6’4” G, Trotwood Madison
The public’s pick for Prep Hoops Ohio Player of the Year is an offensive threat, to put it mildly. Patton makes it look easy when knifing to the basket, both in transition and the half-court. Patton does a great job of attracting the defense’s attention then finding open teammates.
Amir Foster, 6’1” G, Trotwood Madison
As important as Patton is to the Rams’ offense, Foster is his equivalent on defense. The high-pressure attack that Trotwood is known for features Foster guarding the point guard full court. Whether it’s Jayvon Graves or Jon Williams, Foster is going to be shadowing one of Akron St. Vincent St. Mary’s Division I guards.
James Johnson, 6’6” F, Roger Bacon
Johnson is going to bring energy and versatility to Roger Bacon in the Division III Final Four. There’s a chance he’ll guard the other team’s best player, regardless of position.
This D-II/D-III prospect has a Recruiting Report coming tomorrow morning, so to learn more about Johnson, check back tomorrow morning.
Justin Johnson, 6’5” W, Roger Bacon
Johnson is one of the most physically impressive guys you’ll see in Columbus. Johnson, who is not related to his teammate James, soars to the rim for finishes. While he’s not the most polished offensively, he’s a weapon on the glass and on defense.
Craig McGee, 6’ PG, Roger Bacon
McGee is the guy who steers the ship for Roger Bacon. He does so with intelligence and defense. McGee, who is a very strong student as well, continually makes this simple basketball play to set up his supporting cast.
Adam Porter, 6’6” F, The Wellington School
Porter is a guy who can play both inside and out, but expect him to operate more so in the post this weekend. The hard-working senior is a nice finisher that’s being recruited by numerous Division III programs. One of the many players on Wellington that gives them elite size at the Division IV level.
Orion Monford, 6’ G, Lima Perry
Lima Perry is red-hot and Monford’s scoring ability is a big reason why. Monford can score the ball at all three levels. The Division III prospect uses his catch-and-shoot threat to set up his penetration.
photo: Adam Baum