Top 250 Expo: Northeast Ohio Prospects
This week, we will highlight the top players from each region of Ohio, in an effort to show love to the prospects who had memorable performances at Saturday’s Top 250 Expo.
Kyle Goessler (2019), 6’1” G, Brunswick
Coming in, we thought of Goessler as a knock-down three-point shooter. He built upon his evaluation this weekend by hitting tough shots in the mid-range. He has a variety of moves he can go to inside the arch, including a one-foot fall-away that he hit once or twice. Tough kid.
Khalil Mitcham (2019), 6’6” F, Villa Angela-St. Joseph
Although Mitcham didn’t convert on too many jumpers, his mechanics are definitely not broken. He has a high-release. If he’s able to become a consistent shooter, recruitment will likely follow shortly thereafter. Mitcham’s biggest impact right now, though, is on the glass and as an interior scorer. He moves pretty well for a lengthy 6’6” prospect.
Tim Smith Jr. (2019), 6’6” F, Lakewood
Smith is another 6’6” prospect who moves pretty well. He impressed us mostly on the perimeter, during a skill development — both catch-and-shoot stuff and 1-on-1. He has a solid first step and can rise to hit the jumper with fluidity.
Simon Blair (2020), 5’8” PG, South Central
Blair is a lightning quick kid who uses his speed to disrupt on defense and get to spots with the ball. He scatters around the mid-range and finds shooters on the wing once he draws two defenders. If the defense slacks off, Blair is also capable of hitting jumpers off the dribble. We also are a fan of his defensive abilities, as he shows discipline away from the ball and is able to apply pressure against the opposing point guard.
Blair started point guard for South Central as a freshman.
Brent Darby Jr. (2020), 6’6” W/F, Garfield Heights
Darby continues to be one of the best athletes on the floor every time we watch him. His strong chest and shoulders allow him to burrow through traffic. Even when the defense is soundly positioned to defend Darby, he absorbs contact for finishes. Darby also rebounds extremely well. However, his most notable contributions came as a defender, where his length, leaping ability, and activity really shine.