PREVIEWING KC: POY Candidates (2019)
PREVIEWING KC: POY Candidates
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 Player of the Year candidates in the rising senior class.
Javaunte Hawkins, 5’11, G, 2019, Lee’s Summit North (MoKan Elite)
Hawkins is an elite shooter and all-around scorer who can fill out a stat sheet in a hurry. Hawkins brings great leadership to the floor and the confidence to take big shots when a bucket is needed. He has solid court vision and can spin through traffic and get to the basket. He’s also a competitive defender who can play through contact and is always looking for a steal.
Darrius Hughes, 6’5, F, 2019, Rockhurst (Team Rush)
Hughes is an impressive prospect with a game that colleges take note of. He has good size at 6’5 and the skill and makeup to play contact and finesse ball on a moments notice. Hughes is constantly looking better as a shooter and his shooting percentage from behind the 3-point line is increasing. He still has a way of making baskets in the paint and the grit on defense to block shots, rebound and protect the basket at a high level. He fights for the ball and can use his speed to blow past opponents in search of a layup or a drop off pass for his teammates.
Dalen Ridgnal, 6’5, F, 2019, Rockhurst (KC Spurs)
Ridgnal is an aggressive forward who brings great intensity to the floor. He has good size at 6’5 and an enthusiasm around the basket to go after loose balls, rebounds out of his way and block shots. He’s very smart in the paint and can anticipate plays before they happen and come away with steals. Ridgnal can also finish plays in transition.
Lamel Robinson, 5’10, PG, 2019, Park Hill South (Team Rush)
The Nebraska-Omaha commit showcases great offensive skill and a knack for coming away with the ball on defense. Robinson is a quick scoring point guard who can find his way to the basket and shoot well from deep. He is good at maintaining control when he leaves the ground and passes or looks to score in the air. Robinson is a threat from deep and even has a smooth jumper if he sees the lane is full. He’s always going to be a threat.
Nick Zeil, 6’8, PF, 2019, Park Hill (KC Pacers)
A physical post player who is a strong scoring threat and rebounder around the basket. He spent a lot of time on the perimeter where he showcased a nice 3-point stroke, which has been a big addition to his game since the spring. He hit four 3-pointers in a game against Marshall. He is also a solid rebounder and excellent screen setter who does all of the little things to help his team.