Notable Performers: Miami
Richard Nunez, North Miami Beach
The 6-foot-8 Class of 2018 forward embodied rising to the elevated stage during a wild, 73-69 overtime loss to a formidable foe in Winter Park.
Nunez poured in a game-best 37 points, tore down eight boards, and doled out six assists to pace North Miami Beach. He applied the necessary defensive energy, blocking five shots and influencing and manipulating countless others.
Nunez gave North Miami Beach an early spark and never squandered the hot hand. He scored 18 of the team’s first 31 points, demanding amplified defensive attention and double teams.
Toru Dean, South Miami
The day after Christmas, it only makes sense to consider Toru Dean the ST. NICK of Miami.
That’s because the witty point guard gift wraps fireballs and pinpoint passes like presents for his teammates. A pure point guard who takes pleasure in bettering his teammates and knowing their tendencies, Dean has had multiple double digit assists games thus far this season.
He’s authoring staggering numbers, putting up 24 points and 8.0 assists as one of the area’s best and most vastly improved guards.
Dean savors the pure point guard role by shouldering the create first mentality and orchestrating offense on the run. He’s also established himself as a certifiable defensive pest, pick-pocketing opposing point guards and converting turnovers into transition leak outs.
Neftali Alvarez, Miami Christian
Entering the 2017-18 campaign, many envisioned Alvarez as one of the most unheralded and underrated guards in South Florida.
Alvarez, a clutch performer known for big performances when heavy hitters come to town, is adding validation to just how unsung he is.
The 6-foot-2, 175-pound Class of 2018 guard is averaging 23.5 points per game and 10.5 assists, emerging as an early favorite for Player of the Year.
With a knack for hitting timely shots and an advanced skill-set, the three-star recruit deserves more recognition.
Wichita State, Florida International, Akron, Dayton, and Arkansas State have all offered the electrifying Puerto Rican guard.
Arkansas State would be an ideal place for Alvarez to grow and prosper.
This program has special resonance with the Miami area because first year head coach Mike Balado is a local 305 product with a wealth of experience coaching and recruiting in South Florida.