Transfers: Same Faces, New Places (Part 1)
In today’s world of high school basketball, transfers are a frequent thing. It is a very controversial topic, which often times leads kids to receive harsh backlash even if they were simply just trying to better their life. Kids transfer for a variety of reasons – it could be something as simple as the desire to win more, or something as complicated as issues with the coaching staff. Regardless of the reasons for a particular kid’s transfer, as well as the differing views on the topic as a whole, it happens and will most likely continue to happen for years to come. With all this being said, let’s take a look at some of the transfers that occurred during the offseason.
Thomas Kithier (Macomb Dakota —> Clarkston) – Kithier’s transfer has been well-documented and is undoubtedly the highest-profile transfer of the offseason. The Michigan State commit transferred into a Clarkston team that is fresh off a state championship and is returning most of their core. With fellow Michigan State commit Foster Loyer and Wisconsin commit Taylor Currie, Kithier will form a high-major big three that isn’t matched anywhere else in the state. Kithier’s transfer has caused Clarkston to receive plenty of media attention nationally – they have been ranked up to number 4 in the entire country. Before his arrival, Clarkston was still a favorite to win it’s second straight state title; with Kithier in the mix, they should be considered a clear-cut favorite.
Donavan Moore (Hillsboro, IL —> West Bloomfield) – The 6’3″ combo guard had a fantastic AAU season, going from virtually unknown to nearly a high-major player. While he’s yet to receive that high-major offer, don’t be shocked in the slightest if he gets at least one within the next year. Moore is an elite athlete – he is near that top-tier athleticism that many great hoopers have. He is not just an athlete, however; he has solid handles which he uses to score and facilitate, both at a high level. Moore is a top-10 player in the class of 2019.
Troy Lattimore (Walled Lake Northern —> Old Redford) – The 2019 PG will be 1 of 2 transfers into Old Redford that make them a top team in Class B. Due to transfer rules, Lattimore will be forced to sit the first 5 games of the season, but after that, will likely make a big impact for the Ravens. Before he transferred, he impressed at the DCElite Summer League, where he was consistently solid throughout. If he can bring that same consistency to Old Redford, they will be dangerous this season.
Tariq Woody (Plymouth —> Novi) – Woody’s transfer gives Novi a much-needed presence in the paint. He will join the likes of Tray Maddox (Oakland signee), Jio Miles (several D1 offers) and Trendon Hankerson (D2 offers). The 6’9″ big man does a good job rebounding and finishing inside. Though Novi was already looking like a top team in Class A before his arrival, Woody’s decision to join the squad solidifies that thought. He will play a big role for the Wildcats.