2020 Class Preview Part 2
Many talk about how strong certain classes are but the class of 2020 is maybe one the strongest classes we’ve had in a long time. It’s a unique group as they have so many players who have the talent to play at the next level and with their continued hard work and dedication towards their craft after these two years are up, the sky’s the limit. In this article, Prep Hoops shines some light on a special group of student athletes around Colorado, say what makes them stand out in their respective class and also has some updates on how their season’s going so far, here’s Part II.
Darius Hornbuckle 6’1 PG,SG (Thomas Jefferson)
Darius came into TJ and is already arguably their best all-around player. He gets it done on the offensive end and has been the main culprit for their huge turn around after a shockingly disappointing season. He’s a sophomore transfer and has made the best of his new situation. He’s up to 11.2 points a game on an impressive 42% from the field and also averages 2.5 rebounds as well. His Spartans are 7-4 on the season and it’s no surprise that the change came once Darius became part of the group. As long as he’s knocking down three-pointers and shooting the ball effectively, the Spartans have a chance. They go as he goes and look likes a contender for 4A this year.
Quinten Rock 5’11 PG,SG (Smoky Hill)
Rock had one of the best freshman campaigns of any player in the state as he averaged 7.8 points and 2.4 assist a game and shot a team high 49% percent from beyond the arc. He also set a school record with 45 made 3-pointers as a freshman. In only his 1st year Quinten came in and had an immediate impact on Smoky’s season. In his sophomore year, his numbers—better. In 9 games he’s averaging 14.8 points, 3.9 assist and leading the conference in steals with 2.8 a game. He’s progressing as the year goes on and his hard work in the off season is on full display. He’s a player with a high floor, high ceiling and come March, he’ll have his team in position to chase that gold ball.
Christopher Speller 6’3 PG,SG (Rangeview)
Christopher is one half of the dynamic duo of twins that Rangeview has. He’s a combo guard who uses his speed and vision to make plays. In his first year playing varsity he’s shaping up to be a player they can build around in the future and count on to make big plays. He’s averaging 6.8 points, 3.9 assist, 4.2 rebounds and 1.2 steals a game which showcases his versatility and impact. His 6-foot-3 stature combined with his speed makes him a match-up problem for teams. He’ll keep progressing as the season goes along and getting a feel for varsity. He’ll be a key player to watch going forward.
Zion Ruckard 5’9 SG (Eaglecrest)
This season for Zion is more of a learning year with a new head coach and three returning senior guards who just won a championship. He doesn’t have the heavy load some of the other sophomores in the state have but as the season goes on he’s starting to look more comfortable and come into his own. In With limited time, he’s produced. He’s averaging 4.9 points, 1.2 assist and 1.7 steals a game which isn’t numbers that jump off the page, but shows you the type of impact he’ll have when it’s his time to shine.
Elias Curry 6’1 Wing (Denver South)
Elias provides endless energy and is a high motor guy that makes every possession for his team count. Most nights it’s a double-double for him or close to it as he’s averaging 12.4 points and 8 rebounds a game for the Rebels. Although the team aren’t living up to the expectations they set for themselves to start the year as they’re 5-6 on the season, there’s plenty of time to turn it around. League play is just now getting started and I’m sure Elias will be ready to lead the charge in a very strong conference. You can’t teach hustle and heart and Elias has them both.