HARDWOOD: Kansas’ Glue Guys
HARDWOOD: Kansas’ Glue Guys
Prep Hoops takes a look at some of most underrated performers n Lawrence.
The Hardwood Classic wrapped up action on Sunday with several standout performances taking place in the final stages of pool play.
Here, Prep Hoops Kansas takes a look at several in-state players who stood out throughout the event.
44 — Matthew Chapman, 6’7, PF/C, 2019, Blue Valley Northwest, Drive5 (pictured)
Chapman is a hard-nosed, tough interior player who works hard at both ends of the floor, bringing energy and size to the court. He mostly came off the bench as a junior for Blue Valley Northwest, bringing post defense, size and the ability to get on the boards. This weekend Chapman did a good job for Drive5 providing a post presence and defending opposing team’s big men.
15 — Spencer Bain, 6’2, PG, 2020, Blue Valley West, MoKan Elite 16U
Bain has been a big part of our coverage in recent months, often earning a spot among our top point guard prospects at various events, but he also brings a certain leadership quality that helps bring a team together. He brings a calm demeanor to the court and helps his team with his quiet, steady play.
5 — Trace Leners, 6’1, G, 2019, Salina, WSC Team Driven
Leners brought defensive intensity throughout the weekend, and put together a big game on Saturday against SSA Elite Black and he went for 14 points and added several rebounds. Leners does a little bit of everything well, whether it’s digging in on the defensive end of the floor, handling the ball and attacking the basket, or knocking down the occasional 3-pointer.
21 — Lawson Monaco, 6’4, G, 2019, Manhattan, SSA Elite Black
Monaco brings a versatile, well rounded skill set and good size to the floor for SSA Elite Black. A guard with good size at 6’4, Monaco came off the bench and brought the ability to handle the ball, knock down outside shots and some defensive versatility throughout the weekend, whether it was defending guards, wing or even an occasional post player.
33 — King Sutton, 6’4, F, 2020, Topeka, SSA Elite Black
Sutton is an undersized forward who brings a hard work attitude to the court and a willingness to compete in the paint. He is a terrific athlete who can play above the rim at both ends of the floor and often surprises opponents with his shot blocking. Offensively he does a lot of his work in the paint, but can also take advantages against mismatched slower players on the perimeter as he can handle it a little and beat others bigs off the bounce.