Next to Blow C/O 2020
In our Next to Blow series we have looked at the classes of 2018 and 2019, now it is time to show love to the underclassmen. With tons of rising sophomores in the Cincinnati area, these are the gentlemen who will have the biggest impact on their teams won/loss record for 2017-18. So here is my list for those players from the class of 2020 that are Next to Blow.
Sean Ealy- 5’10 G/ Clark Montessori High School
A player that was featured last month on Prep Hoops, Ealy’s production should see a huge spike this season. With the graduation of Jacob McElfresh, do not be surprised to see Sean double or maybe even triple the 5.8ppg he averaged last season. The combination of Ealy and D’Shawnti Hawkins could prove to be the best backcourt in the Miami Valley Conference.
Nekhi Smith- 6’5 F/ Shroder High School
After spending most of the summer playing with Hughes, Smith made the decision to return to Shroder which was a major boost for the Jaguars. A team hit hard by transfers, Smith’s ability to play on the perimeter and the paint will be a major help to Coach Will Johnson. During his freshman season Smith averaged 8.4ppg, good enough for 5th on the team.
Nick Smith- 6’5 F-PF/ Walnut Hills High School
Abba Lawal transferring to Withrow left a big hole in the middle for the Eagles, a hole Smith will be tasked with helping to fill. Nick showed in spurts during his freshman season and all summer that he can rebound at a high rate. Where he must continue to improve at is finishing with both hands around the rim and becoming a better free throw shooter. If he does continue to improve in those areas, Nick could flirt with averaging a double-double for the season.