PREVIEWING KC: Most versatile (2019)
PREVIEWING KC: Most versatile
With basketball practice a month away, Prep Hoops takes a look at several players to watch this upcoming season, starting with some of the Kansas City area’s most versatile players in the rising senior class.
Ben Bryant, 6’6, F, 2019, Raytown (United)
The football standout from Raytown brings great size and athleticism to the floor. He’s an athletic 6’6, who can handle the ball inside and out. He has a good shot from outside and can mix things up in the paint as he plays strong defense and is an important competitor for Raytown on the glass. Bryant is also good at rebounding and finishing shots under the basket.
Eli Dowis, 6’3, G, 2019, Maryville, KC Pacers
Dowis is an athletic guard for Maryville who can defend multiple players and score on the other side of the floor. He runs the floor exceptionally well and can play above the rim in transition and overpower opponents in the air. Dowis can shoot, but he prefers to make plays near the basket as he can use his speed and athleticism to beat opponents off the dribble in both half court and full court settings.
Yonathon Elful, 6’3, F, 2019, North Kansas City
Elful is a fine two-way player who can take on responsibilities as a forward or a guard. He is a player who does a lot of the dirty work and finds breakthroughs by staying active and hustling around the basket. He can rebound, make stops defensively and score in the paint with a hand in his face. Elful has the talent to do more if given the chance,
Reed Levi, 6’3, F, 2019, Rockhurst
Levi is an active forward who is constantly moving in and out of the lane. He can stay in front of opponents on defense and can play physical if he needs to. He’s a strong 6’3 with the athleticism needed to challenge taller forwards on the block. Levi does a lot of little things well and can finish shots around the basket due to his eagerness on the block and improved rebounding skills.
Gavin Richardson, 6’3, G/F, 2019, Oak Grove (KC Pacers White)
Richardson is a combo G/F who stays ahead by playing a physical brand of defense. Richardson can often be matched up against taller, stronger players, and his intensity on defense sets a tone. Richardson also has a nice touch on offense, a player who can score around the basket and find his rhythm from behind the 3-point line. Richardson is also smart at directing traffic and can make timely passes to his teammates.
Kaden Spruell, 6’3, F, 2019, Blue Springs (Marcus Denmon)
Spruell is a wide framed athlete who can protect the basket and come up with a big shot on the other end. Spruell has a good feel for the post and can play with his back to the basket or face up and knock down a jumper. He’s a player that fits nicely with his team. He is a good rebounder and team player.