Prep Hoops Series — Kansas City: Stock Risers (Bigs)
Prep Hoops Series — Kansas City: Standout (Bigs)
LAWRENCE, Kan. — Prep Hoops Kansas takes a look at several bigs who raised their profile throughout the weekend at the Prep Hoops Series in Kansas City.
8 — Ben Bryant, 6’6, F, 2019, Raytown (Mo.), United
Also a football standout, Bryant brings a diverse skill set to the floor, able to handle the ball a little on the perimeter, shoot from the outside and adds some toughness on the boards and in the paint.
32-Max Close, 6’3, F, 2021, Shawnee Mission South, Mokan
A smart post player who bounces well around the rim. He has good size and length and he uses it the way a player his size should. He feels around for space with his shoulders and can finish around the basket through contact around taller players. An active athlete who earns his minutes through hustle plays. He runs the floor well and is always looking for an easy basket.
41 — Trey Duffey, 6’5, F, 2019, Seaman, SSA Elite Black
A skilled forward, Duffey had a good showing throughout the weekend in the post and on the boards. He is comfortable at the high post where he has a smooth jumper out to 17 feet and can also see over the defense and find open cutters. Duffey helped Seaman reach the Kansas 5A state championships in hometown Topeka this past season and is putting together a strong spring so far.
Blaise Keita, 6’9, F/C, 2019, Sunrise (Kan.), KC Pacers
Keita has tremendous size and length and is still learning the game. He runs the floor well, has a strong, athletic basketball frame and brings terrific mobility to the floor for a big man. He is still raw at the offensive end, but shows the ability to score around the basket with both hands and at the defensive end of the floor can challenge shots around the basket.
40-Jared Gerdes, 6’7, F, 2021, Summit Christian Academy, Mokan
Gerdes has a good frame and a nose for the ball. He does work in the paint, a player who can bruise opponents on the block and high post. Even though he has a height advantage, Gerdes continues to work harder than the competition. He makes contact when the ball goes up and is good at separating himself and coming down with the ball.