GRBA National Championship: Standout 2019 Forwards
Grassroots basketball is now a thing of the past for Ohio’s 2019 prospects. But for those who made a habit of taking care of their business this season, they don’t need to worry about one chapter ending. Instead, other doors will open up as this one closes.
Kevin Davet, 6’9” C, All Ohio Black / St. Ignatius
Davet’s athleticism and touch in the post have trended upwards this entire grassroots season. The burly center scored efficiently from the post this weekend, often going to simple hook shots. He was moving defenders out of the way with his body for high-percentage looks at the rim. Davet is jumping with better quickness/burst off the floor. Being able to see the floor better from the post-up could be Davet’s next step. Super high-academic kid.
Philip Alston, 6’5” F, Nova (James) / Westerville North
Alston’s fearlessness at the basket results in some exciting collisions at the rim and plenty of trips to the free throw line, where he has nice touch. He likes to attack on straight-line drives or go coast-to-coast off a defensive board. Alston finishes at the basket with power. Excellent athlete and build as a combo forward.
Trevon Wells, 6’4” F/C, TNBA East Black / Cleveland Central Catholic
Wells is a throwback! This kid was unstoppable in the paint when we caught him on Saturday. Almost immediately, he drew two fouls against his matchup with post moves, sending him to the bench. The fouls aren’t a product of pure athleticism or Herculean strength. Instead, Wells is tremendously crafty and skilled with his foot work. Don’t let his hefty build fool you, this kid can play and gets buckets inside all day. Would be a nice pick-up for NAIA and D-III programs who are willing to occasionally filter the ball inside.
Damion Williams, 6’7” F, TNBA Ohio / Willoughby South
Williams is quite easily the biggest Ohio 2019 stock-riser from the GRBA this weekend. He has the build of a traditional big man yet moves his feet and elevates with outstanding athleticism. Showed an ability to protect the rim and also move his feet with wings on switches. Williams also has really good hands and can finish through contact with power. He definitely has Division II talent but needs to get up his ACT score and is awaiting the results on his second attempt.
Robert Cole, 6’4” F, Dayton Nets / Wayne
For whatever Cole lacks in height, he makes up for it in discipline and effort. Cole is an athletically built kid who checks all of the boxes on the fundamentals. Excellent sealer in the post. He can go over either shoulder with his back to the basket. Nice touch. Makes quick decisions with the ball in there and doesn’t waste dribbles. Very active on the glass and impressed on some of his box outs also.