Kansas Top Prospects: EYBL Session 1
Some of the highest ranked prospects in Kansas were in action this past weekend in Dallas at the first session of the EYBL. Some of which ranked on a national level while others just on a state level.
Most of Kansas’ top prospects on the Nike circuit play on Mokan Elite as it is the only EYBL team located in the state of Kansas but there are a few prospects scattered onto other teams. Here’s how each of the top prospects performed this past weekend.
- Photo Credit: Jon Lopez
Malik Hall (2019)- Mokan Elite 17U
Malik had a great weekend in Dallas, leading Mokan to a 3-1 record with their only loss coming in double OT.
Malik proved once again that he could put the ball in the basket at a very high level but really showed his strength as a facilitator if his shots weren’t falling.
- Photo Credit: Jon Lopez
N’Faly Dante (2020)- Mokan Elite 17U
N’Faly averaged about 20 points and 10 rebounds for the weekend in Dallas and was a presence in the paint on defense for Mokan.
As one of the top 2020 prospects in the nation, N’Faly is bound to see his stock soar this summer.
Coming off the Nike Hoop Summit in which he was the youngest prospect present, N’Faly continues to show how special he is.
It starts with his measurements as he stands at 6’11” with a 7’6″ wingspan.
Not only is he an impressive specimen but he’s a big man that runs the court effectively, stretches his game out to the midrange area, and has great footwork.
- Photo Credit: Jon Lopez
Christian Braun (2019)- Mokan Elite 17U
Christian saw his stock rise significantly this weekend like many of his teammates.
Christian is a high IQ player who is known for his ability to shoot at an elite level. He did not disappoint this weekend shooting 55% from beyond the arc.
Christian was also surprisingly a huge factor in the boards. He consistently crashed the offensive glass taking advantage of poor box outs from his opponents.
Christian picked up offers from Arizona, Lehigh, and Ole Miss in the past week.
- Photo Credit: Jon Lopez
Austin Crowley (2019)- MEBO Team Hood 17U
While Crowley struggled this past weekend from long range and left during the third game due to an ankle injury, he still showed a lot of characteristics of a high major prospect.
He showed consistent explosiveness and the ability to get his own shots, scoring 19 points in his first game of the weekend.
Look for Crowley to get in rhythm and have an improved 3-point percentage as the summer wears on and gain more attention and notoriety.
Crowley holds offers from Alabama, Memphis, Mississippi State and Ole Miss.
- Photo Credit: Jon Lopez
Javuante Hawkins (2019)- Mokan Elite 17U
Javuante has a smaller role on a loaded Mokan Elite 17U team but is able to contribute with his scoring ability and shooting from 3-point range.
He makes the most of the kickouts received from N’Faly and/or Malik with a growing number of chances as defenses converge on those two.
Look for Javuante to play a limited but important role as the summer wears on, as he will need to consistently contribute in the scoring column for Mokan to have a balanced approach.
- Photo Credit: Jon Lopez
Carlos Paez (2019)- Mokan Elite 17U
Carlos did not see as much time on the court as he has been used to but in spurts was very good. Carlos is a highly skilled, undersized PG who relies on his sound decision-making once in the teeth of the defense.
He had 6 AST and 2 STL in the game he played most against Playaz Club 17U but began to struggle when looking for the home run play at times in subsequent games.
Carlos has low division 1 interest but no solidified offers as of now.