SWIC Blue Storm Team Camp (Top Wings)
Here is a look at some of the top wing players from last weekend’s SWIC Blue Storm Team Camp in Belleville, IL.
A’tavian Butler 6’2″ McCluer North ’19: The explosive wing player has been a big stock riser during the spring with his work with the St. Louis Majestics 17U squad. He is tough to handle because he plays above the rim and he attacks the basket relentlessly and finishes well. His best work is within 10 feet of the basket as a scorer and tenacious rebounder. The next part of his game for his to develop is a consistent perimeter jumper. That would make him truly a problem to defend.
Jason Montgomery 6’4″ Marquette ’19: The talented wing missed most of the spring with a stress fracture in his foot, but he was back in June and show little signs of the injury has he displayed his versatile game. He is a still a beast in the post as a scorer and rebounder, but his perimeter game has become well-rounded as he can knock down jumpers, handle the ball and make plays for others through his passing. He already has a Division II offer and a lot of other interest.
Ray Adams 6’3″ Webster Groves ’19: The knock down 3-point shooter will become one of the focal points of the Webster Groves offense in 2019. He displayed his normal long distance shooting throughout the weekend. He also did his share of ball handling and facilitating the offense and he did a good job. He is also impressive when he moves without the ball and cutting to the basket, always keeping the defense guessing.
Patrick Evans 6’3″ McCluer North ’19: Another athletic wing who combines with his teammate Butler to form one of the state’s most explosive duos at the guard position. Evans is big and strong and attacks the rim with a lot of aggression, which usually ends up in a strong finish or a dunk. He is a matchup problem because he can handle the ball well and beat defenders off the bounce. I would like to see him become more consistent with the perimeter jumper, which would make him an even better prospect.
Dylan Branson 6’5″ Mehlville ’20: A big-bodied combo guard who is comfortable handling the ball and running the offense or playing off the ball where he can get buckets. His best asset is his court vision as he can locate open teammates before they know they are open. If you are not ready, you will get one bounced off your noggin. He is really good when he buffalos his way to the basket to score against smaller defenders. He also brings an element of toughness to his team.
Dallas King 6’0″ Webster Groves ’19: In the two games I watched him, he was very productive and he didn’t have to score a lot of buckets to do it. His activity was tremendous on both ends of the court as he defended, collected rebounds on both ends, went after loose balls and delivered some excellent passes. His high motor and high basketball IQ will make him an ideal swiss army knife because he can perform a lot of duties and always be in the right position.
Peyton Long 6’1″ Warrensburg ’19: He is a very solid performer who can knock down perimeter shots on a consistent basis. He made five 3-pointers in a game I watched against Mascoutah. He is constant motion on offense, never giving his defender a chance to rest. Or else, he is shooting another open triple. He also has a nice dribble move when he can get into the lane and shoot the short jumper.