Lindenwood Team Camp (Friday Standouts)
Prep Hoops Missouri was in St. Charles on Friday for the first day of the Lindenwood University Team Camp. Here is a look at some of the top standouts from Friday’s games:
A’Tavian Butler 6’2″ McCluer North ’19
The explosive wing player had a big performance in a last-second loss to Alton with 22 points and at least a dozen rebounds. He was relentless at both ends of the floor with his athleticism and high motor. From 10 feet in, he’s about as good as anybody around with his ability to finish around the rim over anyone. He goes after rebounds as if he were a 6’9″ giant. As the game wears on, he continues to get stronger as his effort never stops.
Jason Montgomery 6’4″ Marquette ’19
The skilled wing player scored a game-high 20 points in a victory over St. Mary’s in pool play. He is a threat to get buckets anywhere on the floor with his strength and versatility. He had some creative finishes off the drive, plus he added several tough buckets inside and on offensive rebounds. He is a very unselfish player who worked to get his new teammates involved in the action. He has already received offers from Maryville and Missouri Baptist.
Malik Smith 6’3″ Alton (IL) ’19
The multi-skilled wing had the biggest shot of the day when he sank a pull-up 3-pointer in the final seconds to give the Redbirds a 64-62 victory over McCluer North in an excellent game. He has the handles and offensive skills of a playground wizard, but he fits it into the team concept where the Redbirds have several scoring threats. He can change directions on the dime and is seemingly able to create a shot for himself whenever he wants.
Dylan Branson 6’5″ Mehlville ’20
The burly wing player had a dominant performance in a victory over Jennings in an early-morning pool play game. He was tough in the open court where he was able to display his handles and finishing ability on the break at different angles. He used his body to post up smaller defenders to get buckets, then he would take his man outside to sink perimeter jumpers. He really had it working in this particular game.
Avery Taggert 6’4″ Eureka ’19
The two-sport standout gave a verbal commitment to play football at Southern Illinois University earlier this week. On Friday, he showed up at Lindenwood and got plenty of buckets in a victory over Howell Central. His skill set and agility for a kid is size is excellent as he maneuvered his way to the basket for buckets and pulled up for mid-range jumpers. He scored a bunch while also playing an unselfish game to help bring along a younger supporting cast.
Chevy Brenson 6’4′ Christian-O’Fallon ’21
A versatile young wing player who led his team to three victories on the day. He has size and the skill level to play multiple positions on the court. He played the point at times, went to the high post against zone defenses and also excelled in the low post. Wherever you need him, he would go. He eat hearty on the offensive glass with several put backs, plus he plays excellent defense.