2019 Hidden Gems 2nd Team
In the next part of the Hidden Gems honors, we have 5 more players who are having strong junior seasons for their respective teams. This set of 5 is unique and these guys are ready to solidify themselves even further this travel season.
Kevin Hester (North Cobb)- A double-double machine, Hester has taken his region by storm this year. He is a huge reason why North Cobb has gone from 3 wins last year to 14 and counting this season. Hester may be an undersized post at 6’5” but his physicality and motor definitely make up for it. He is a burly forward who bangs inside with anyone and can go for a 20-15 double-double like it’s nothing. Hester uses his body to carve out space, has nice touch, and is consistent with his production. He made 1st Team in a region with some very talented players, doing so with a worker’s mentality. You will continue to hear Hester’s name throughout the spring and summer.
Reco Hallmon (Grayson)- Playing on an exceptional Grayson team, Hallmon cannot waste any opportunities he gets. He hasn’t. Just last week, Hallmon went for 22 points on 75% shooting and 80% from 3. You won’t find that type of efficiency from many guys. He stays ready and contributes in other areas during the games in which he doesn’t get as many touches. Hallmon is an energetic player with solid all-around skills who will always get himself on the court because he brings it on defense. You’d probably be hearing much more about him if he was on a different high school team. Grayson could end up making a deep playoff run, but I am excited to see Hallmon and the rest of his loaded travel team soon.
Mitch Ganote (Lambert)- Ganote is a guy I love to watch because of the passion and effort he plays with every game. He brings tons of value and does so many different things for the Longhorns. He may be the only player outside of Ashton Hagans who has multiple triple-doubles this season. Ganote has excellent vision, is a terror defensively, and is a well-rounded scorer also. He is one of the most versatile players you’ll find and he has stepped up in big moments for Lambert. Ganote was recently selected as Region Tournament MVP and made 1st Team All-Region, leading his team to a region championship. Lambert will look to advance to the Sweet 16 this Saturday against Mill Creek.
Miles Herron (Roswell)- The Silent Assassin, Herron is as steady as they come and just gets it done night after night. He is never rattled for the Hornets and always seems to come through with big plays. Herron is a high IQ player who can score at all 3 levels and gets to the free-throw line better than almost anyone. He may not be the biggest or flashiest guard, but his production is undeniable, evident by another 1st Team All-Region selection. Herron makes sure things run smoothly and settles the Hornets on offense, which will be very important as playoffs start. He has received constant interest from MM’s in the region this year, including visits to Wofford and Presbyterian. Expect this trend to continue for Herron.
Brandon Barron (Alpharetta)- One of the most athletic guards in the state, Barron’s electric play-style results in frequent highlights. He is not just a highlight machine though. Barron can get anywhere on the court whenever he wants and creates so much for the Raiders off the dribble. His ability to hang, adjust, and finish at the basket is exceptional, but he is also consistently hitting outside shots. He puts nonstop pressure on the opponent in transition and makes play on defense as well. Barron earned 1st Team All-Region honors for Alpharetta, but he is already shooting for POY for next year. Look for him to come into the travel season determined and ready to dominate.