Kansas City Classic Recap (Class of 2019 Forwards)
Here is a look at some of the top Class of 2019 forwards from last weekend’s Kansas City Classic in Lawrence, KS:
Tyem Freeman 6’4″ MoKan Elite: One of the most dynamic athletes in the state, Freeman’s slam dunks are well beyond highlight-reel quality. They are becoming quite outrageous. He had one dunk in pool play that had everyone in the gym buzzing for the rest of the weekend. In addition to his feats of athleticism, Freeman has a growing offensive repertoire with jumpers, inside moves and drives to the basket. He is definitely one of the state’s top young prospects.
Darrius Hughes 6’5″ Team Rush: A big bodied combo forward who combines his size and physical strength with an excellent skill set. I enjoyed watching him play because he has quick feet, good handles and explosive leaping ability, which enabled him to finish with several emphatic slam dunks around the basket. All of these attributes make him a tough matchup problem for opposing defenders.
Dylan Rigdon 6’5″ KC Spurs Black: A capable combo forward who helped lead the Spurs to the championship of the 16U Platinum Division. He is a hard working performer who competes for every rebound he can get his hands on. He runs the court well and gets his share of transition buckets, plus he is good at hitting the 15 foot jumper from the high post.
Jason Montgomery 6’3″ Arsenal Hoops: A blue collar performer who helped lead his team to the Silver Division championship. His combination of hard work and good fundamentals leads to high productivity. He is a threat to produce a double-double every game because he attacks the boards and can score inside, even against bigger opponents. Jason will also step out and knock down mid-range jumpers off the catch.
Luke Vanderslick 6’5″ Springfield Hawks: The young forward put in a productive weekend in helping the Hawks to a 5-1 record and the Gold Division championship. He is a capable inside scorer and rebounder, but he also displayed some versatility with his passing and shooting from the mid range area.
Michael Peake 6’6″ MoKan Elite: A big, young power forward with a big body who competes hard in the lane. He is a physical player who plays with a high motor. He enjoys rebounding on both ends of the floor and he finishes well around the basket.
Latre Morrison 6’7″ MoKan Select: A big strong lad with a nice basketball body. He is a work in progress on the offensive end, but he excels as a rebounder and shot blocker. He has excellent length to go along with his size. His good timing enables him to block shots without getting into foul trouble.