Top 250 Expo: Forwards who raised their profile (2021)
Here is a look at several 2021 forwards who raised their profile at the Prep Hoops Kansas Top 250 Expo held on Sunday at Blue Valley West.
26 — Miles Cole, 6’8, F/C, 2021, Shawnee Mission North (Kan.)
Big man who brought good activity to the floor and worked hard for rebounds and paint touches. Cole showed his toughness and ability to work hard in the paint and battle other talented, perhaps older, big men throughout the camp and often held his own — scoring points around the basket and getting key offensive rebounds for his team. He’s a player to watch in the rising sophomore class due to his size and motor.
32-Branden Eckles, 6’6, F, 2021, Olathe South (Kan.)
A post player who can spin around defenders and score with a hand in his face. Eckles has a sweet game up close and can use his body to create as much room as he needs. He is good through contact and can make shots in a crowd. He’s also solid on defense. He keeps his hands up and tries to contest every play around him.
73-Andrew Orr, 6’7, F, 2021, Blue Valley North (Kan.)
A nice post man who plays well facing the basket. He has a way of moving well through the lane and can flip in shots through contact. One of the few centers who are used to the position, Orr took advantage of every mismatch he was given. Pounding the ball down the paint and scoring over smaller players. Orr has good size and feel for his game. He flows in and out of the paint and can defend and score when given the chance.
86-Liam Smith, 6’4, F, 2021, Kapaun Mt Carmel (Kan.)
Smith is a strong forward who likes to handle the ball and direct traffic. He has a good sense of the game and is smart with the ball and on the move. He’s a strong passer and can push the tempo whenever he has the floor. He’s comfortable playing a variety of positions and can make solid plays when he’s out of position and double-teamed in a corner. A very smart player.