Louisiana’s underrated six under 6
The season has been moving fast and furious thus far. There have been big time performances all over the state by players at all levels. Often times, we highlight the big guys and their performances night in and night out. However, guards are the guys who make things happen in today’s free-flowing, three-happy game. Here are six guys under six feet who make things happen when they are on the floor.
Terrell Daniels / 5’10” Sr. / Woodlawn-Shreveport
This senior has practically knocked down every open look that he has seen during the season. When one of the Moton brothers has driven the lane and kicked the ball out to him, he has made defenses pay. Even after a secured rebound, Terrell knows how to fade to the open spot for a dagger three. He also plays great defense on smaller guards who play against Woodlawn-Shreveport. In their first district game against Bossier, he hit the big shot to tie the game late. Daniels is one of those shooters that is not afraid of the big moment. He is as tough as they get mentally.
Jerome Anthony / 5’7″ Jr. / Sophie B. Wright
In the couple of games that I saw Sophie B. Wright play, Anthony showed the ability to be a one man fast break. He would push the ball and score against defenders. In the front court, Jerome displayed a floater that allowed him to score over taller players. Finally, Jerome showed a toughness that let him guard guys in a pitbull fashion. His play gives his team a spark whenever he is on the floor.
Bobby Baker / 5’6″ Jr. / Southwood
Bobby is a junior guard that has shown the ability to be a tenacious defender against bigger offensive players. His small stature allows him to effect larger guards ability to dribble and setup the offense. Bobby has also displayed the ability to use straight line drives to get to the rim and get fouled. These abilities will allow him to be a big contributor for the Cowboys as the season moves into district play.
Tarae Robinson / 5’9″ Jr. / Airline High
All one needs to know about Tarae is that he comes to play when he is on the floor. He might be small, but he can get to the basket and create contact with the best guards I have seen this year. Robinson is also not afraid to take the last shot. In Airline’s six overtime loss to West Monroe, Tarae took the tying free throws or took the final shot in regulation and three of the extra sessions before fouling out. He might not be the most polished offensive player, but no one has more heart. He is definitely the epitome of a floor leader.
K.J. Franklin / 5’8″ Jr. / St. Amant
Franklin is easily one of the quickest guards in the state. He can also shoot the ball from deep. For opponents of St. Amant, this is a nightmare to defend. This combination allowed him to win MVP honors at the Doc Edwards Memorial basketball tournament in Bossier City. On defense, his quickness gives him the ability to move his feet and disrupt offensive sets. Opposing guards in 5-5A better be prepared when they play St. Amant because K.J. will make them work hard on the defensive end.
Cody Deen / 5’7″ Soph.
Even though his high school playing days at Southwood appear to be over, Cody has a body of work that will make him an asset at his next high school. Offensively, he gets it done from deep. Along with the three pointer, he shoots a high percentage of free throws and two point shots. As a sophomore, he has a high basketball IQ. His man to man defense needs to improve. His next coach will probably help with that. Once that improves, he will be one of the most complete players in the state.