Washington State positional rankings (power forwards)
The power forward (PF), also known as the four, is one of the five positions in a regulation basketball game. It has also been referred to as the “post” position. Power forwards play a role similar to that of center in what is called the “post” or “low blocks”. They typically play offensively with their backs towards the basket and position themselves defensively under the basket in a zone defense or against the opposing power forward in man to man defense. The power forward position entails a variety of responsibilities, one of which is rebounding. Many power forwards are noted for their mid-range jump-shot, and several players have become very accurate from 12 to 18 feet (3.7 to 5.5 m). Earlier, these skills were more typically exhibited in the European style of play. Some power forwards, known as stretch fours, have since extended their shooting range to three point field goals.
Lets take a look at the top power forwards in the state of Washington:
The USC Trojans had built one of the best recruiting classes in the nation coming out of the summer. However a big piece to that class has now decided to re-open things. Four-star power forward J’Raan Brooks decided open up his recruitment in light of the ongoing FBI investigation, and no longer plans to attend USC.
“Due to unforeseen circumstances stemming from the recent news that has come to light in regards to the Trojan basketball program – I have decided to reopen my commitment to examine other options,” Brooks announced.
Brooks is a versatile power forward who can play in the mid-range or on the interior. He had a tremendous summer with Dream Vision on the adidas Gauntlet, and continues to improve his skills to go long with his athleticism and length. Look for Brooks to now become one of the most heavily recruited prospects on the West Coast.
Class of 2018 Philip Pepple from Shorecrest High is an absolute beast in the paint. Pepple is a physical post player who loves to bang and battle with the best. He is very athletic, catching the ball on the block and jumping through defenders for aggressive dunks at the rim. He is solid at blocking shots also, meeting dunks at the rim.
Class of 2019, 6’9, power forward Abdul Mohammed is a man amongst kids. Abdul can stretch the floor and make threes but one of his biggest strengths is his leadership and basketball IQ. He needs to focus on adding muscle mass and becoming more physical in the post. While Abdul does have perimeter skill, he needs to spend the lead-up to his junior season working on becoming a more consistent shooter and get more comfortable putting the ball on the floor.
Class of 2019 Jacob Dahlstrom is solid post player, which much more room for growth. He is improving each day and becoming a better post player by the high level competition in the metro league. He will have a much bigger impact for the crusaders next season, but this season is all about growth and development for Dahlstrom. He has a nice post presence, blocking shots and holding down the paint. He gives the extra effort, doing everything his team needs to win games. He can knock down shots and finish at the rim. Dahlstrom can improve on becoming a stronger post player and adding more post moves to his game, but he has a very high ceiling.
At 6-7, 2018 Monroe prospect forward Colby Kyle loves to play defense, specifically block his opponents. Kyle isn’t only a shot blocker, he has an overall game that stands out. He describes himself as a versatile player, defensively and offensively. Kyle has a knack for hitting short jumpers, but can also step out to shoot a three if he needs to. Another aspect of his game that he prides himself on is rebounding, which at 6-7 and long arms comes easily.