Noble Notables: Still-Available Guards
Tyrieke Blakeney, West Oaks Academy
The 6-foot-2 transfer from Agape Christian (FL) has shed the tag of chucker and become more of a controlled, highly productive scoring guard. Blakeney has incorporated a nifty stepback, floater, and other tools into his arsenal. He’s been a consistent supplementary scoring piece for West Oaks, which features a top-shelf Class of 2019 guard in Tyrell Jones.
Tino Sebalj, Arlington Country Day
The 6-foot-8 sharpshooter shouldered the role of stretch four this past season at now-defunct Sebalj. Beyond providing high-level and deep 3-point shooting ability, Sebalj is the type of instant impact scorer who can spark a run with a couple of momentum rolling shots. His quick release, length, and consistency from beyond the arc make him appealing at the ensuing level.
Sebalj, who will likely be taking the JUCO route, also has developed a back to the bucket game. He’s got the ability to hit transition 3-pointers and stretch out defenders.
Madiaw Niang, DME Academy
The 6-foot-8 guard/forward is multi-dimensional on both sides of the ball. A key scorer and rebounder on DME’s national team under head coach Dan Mondragon this season, Niang relished the leadership role. He became more of a reliable shooter from mid to long range and called his own number during pivotal moments. Niang has offers from Coastal Carolina, Wyoming, Stetson, Florida International, and a slew of others.
The Class of 2018 prospect had multiple 30+ point games this season.
Donavvan Bonilla, The Nation Prep
The 6-foot-6 forward has a smooth, reliable 18-20 footer that enables him to bring bigger rim protectors away from the rim. Bonilla’s toughness on the glass and crafty inside allowed him to shoulder the go-to guy role at various times this season. A high Division-II caliber prospect, Bonilla has offers from programs such as Franklin Pierce. He needs to get stronger and develop his body, albeit his hustle and awareness inside have improved considerably this past season.
Idrissa Bivens, The Nation Prep
The long, Class of 2019 point guard is adept at creating his own shot off the bounce. Bivens, who opened eyes with a 18-point (as well as six assists, seven boards) performance against NBA prospect Anfernee Simons and IMG Academy. Bivens displayed a crafty arsenal in that particular matchup, scoring on the drive and freeing up space to score the ball. Has a facilitator’s mentality and creates for his teammates.
Dwain Williams, The Nation Prep
Tough, hot-shooting guard has been a Chris Lofton type presence for the first year program in Port St. Lucie this winter. Williams’ catch-and-stick game and ability to hit big shots under heightened pressure are key, noticeable attributes of his game. Had several breakout performances in which he got hot on a low number of shots.
Julian Surla, Potter’s House
The quick-strike 3-point shooter has reaped the rewards of an increased strength of schedule in 2017-18. The smooth off guard has become more proficient in creating his own shot and scoring off the dribble. He’s improved as an on-ball defender while simultaneously developing a tighter handle. Expect the Class of 2020 prospect to be flushed into a more prominent role next season.
Thomas Fortier, The Conrad Academy
Well-built guard brings toughness and wall to wall defensive pressure, an aspect of his game he’s ramped up on the past two seasons. At 6-foot-4, Fortier also brings 3-point shooting and sound on court awareness.
Milan Stakic, NTSI Orlando
At 7-foot-1 and 238 pounds, Stakic has the size to be a very imposing figure at the next level. Having increased his scoring aptitude tremendously over the last two seasons, Stakic has the potential to be a European-style forward/center. He’s got a feathery and steady touch from 15-18 feet out. If he can buys in and can work up to the rate that’s demanded of him, he’s got a chance to be your prototype late bloomer recruit.