PHI Freshman Showcase Notebook: Lacking Size But Projects Available
FISHERS, IN | The 4th annual Prep Hoops Indiana Freshman Showcase this past Sunday was another successful run for the state bringing together 100 of the top players in the 2022 class. Overall, the day ran smooth and provided a solid look at those top players in the state.
Now, it is time to figure out what this class has to offer. Here is our breakdown from the event and thoughts on the class on first viewing.
Looking For Size, Some Projects Available
The biggest noticeable thing, and this was seen on paper before the event even began, was the lack of size in the class. There are a good handful of bigs but most aren’t ready to contribute at a major level yet. However, there were some solid performances to note.
Biggest of not only the post players but of the entire event was that of Jalen Washington of Gary West (IN). The 6’7 power forward is probably going to be a national level recruit really quick. So skilled and aggressive and really mobile with a decent amount of athleticism. So advanced with his toughness and skill.
Then there were guys like Thomas Barone of Valparaiso (IN) and Dayton Devaughn of Martinsville (IN) who look like they are going to keep growing, getting over 6’10 and with frames that hold some strength already. They just need some seasoning but capable of getting up and down the court and contributing a bit.
There were some promising players down the list as well but when looking for potential guys on first viewing without reviewing film yet, there don’t seem like a ton more guys to really hold at that level yet. However, guys like Max Sullivan (Whiteland), Ethan Oakley (North Harrison), and Charlie Williams (Carmel) are some 6’6+ posts that are more of true posts that could develop. All three have some build on the frame and in the right system.
As most classes come around, there are a few guys that will pop up as the years come and go, some kids developing quite a bit later in their careers than others but right now, the class looks like on that upper tier of talent but some pieces that could get close before the end of their senior years.