Stock Risers: Uncommitted 2018 big men flying under radar
rep Hoops Kansas takes a look at some 2018 big men who are uncommitted that are flying under the radar and should be on college program’s radars.
Xavier Cason, 6’5, PF/C, 2018, Junction City
Cason is among the most improved players we’ve seen this season. He’s always been a big, physical presence for Junction City with broad shoulders and the power and strength to impact a game in the paint. But he has seemingly taken things to new heights this season and has been big on the boards and scoring the ball around the basket. He’s a little undersized in height for the college game and mostly has a below-the-rim game, but we feel if he continues to improve he could be an impact player for a program.
Peyton Hatter, 6’7, F, 2018, Wichita North
Hatter is a skilled forward who can play inside-out basketball. He is a good finisher around the basket, can defend a little in the post, and can also step out and knock down perimeter shots and handle the ball a little. He has put together a productive senior season, averaging better than 18 points per game for North.
Peyton Sieck, 7’0, C, 2018, Goodland
Sieck is a developing big man who runs the floor well and has good agility for a 7-footer. He is a good shot blocker with terrific timing and is averaging nearly five blocked shots per game. Offensively, he is still developing a post game, but shows flashes of being able to score on the block. He has work to do in the weight room and adding strength and muscle mass will help him get position and absorb contact.
Thomas Lipscomb, 6’8, F, 2018, Heritage Christian
Lipscomb has flown under the radar as a college prospect as best we can tell, but he fits the modern game quite well as a long, rangy big man who can shoot the 3, handles the ball well and is agile enough to move his feet on the perimeter. He still needs to get strong and a little more aggressive on the boards, but he is certainly a player to watch and likely has a place at the next level.
Grant Owens, 6’8, PF/C, 2018, Buhler
At 6’8, 250-pounds, Owens is a huge presence in the paint for Buhler and has proven to be a difficult match-up for most of the teams the Crusaders face. He works hard for position in the paint, provides a good target for his guards and has good, soft hands. He is tough on the block and looks to work his way into the paint offensively. Does a good job of finishing around the basket and is a willing passer out of the post.