PREVIEW: Kansas’ underrated bigs (2020)
As part of its 2018-19 preview series, Prep Hoops Kansas takes a look at some of the state’s top players in a variety of positions in the rising junior class.
Below are some of the state’s most underrated big men prospects in the 2020 class.
Noah Cubit, 6’8, F/C, 2020, Liberty (Primetime Ballerz)
An active big man, Cubit is one of the state’s premier young shot blockers in the rising junior class. An athletic 6’8 big man, Cubit’s offensive game is still raw, but he brings a lot of activity, the ability to play with a big motor and a willingness to challenge shots around the rim. His calling card is at the defensive end, but he shows the ability to finish around the basket and is active on the offensive glass.
Chandler Marks, 6’6, F, 2020, Manhattan (SSA Elite 16U Black)
Marks is poised for a breakout season at Manhattan this year after waiting his turn behind several talented seniors last season. He put together a strong summer, including in June team camp and on the grassroots circuit with SSA Elite. He has a strong, athletic frame and the ability to score in a variety of ways. He can knock down outside shots and can score in the paint as well.
Andrew Sonner, 6’4, F, 2020, Olathe East, Speed 2020
We’re excited to see what type of season Sonner puts together at the high school level this season as he impressed with his play at the Kansas Prep Hoops 250 Expo. He has the potential to be a standout stretch 4 as he plays much bigger than his listed 6’4 height, and can really shoot it from the perimeter. He is a big, thick forward with the ability to mix it up in the paint, but can also knock down perimeter shots.
Jacob Owens, 6’9, F, Blue Valley, KC Run GMC
Owens has a lot of potential due to his size, length and athleticism. He runs the floor exceptionally well, is a good shot blocker and is able to finish around the basket and will likely play a much bigger role for the varsity this season and beyond.
King Sutton, 6’4, F, 2020, Topeka (SSA Elite Black)
Sutton isn’t a traditional big man as he is somewhat an undersized forward, but he is an elite level athlete who brings a hard work attitude to the court and a willingness to compete in the paint. He is a bouncy 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.