Septembers Best: Guards
September was a month filled with open gyms, showcases and expos across the state of Ohio. And with the help of the Friar’s Club, Triple Double Prospects and of course Prep Hoops, I was able to see lots and lots of talent throughout the month from the Cincinnati area. Here is part one my list of Cincinnati guards who caught my eye during the month of September.
DeAirius Barker/6’0-G/Princeton (2020)- Barker had a very good showing at the Prep Hoops Top 250, and it was his floor game that impressed the most. DeAirius accounted for numerous assists while also making hockey assist on lots of plays as well. And as always, he was deadly from 15-17ft. Coach Steve Wright will have a tough decision to make when it comes to his starting backcourt this fall with all that guard talent.
DJ Brewton/6’2-G/Dohn Prep (2019)- Having re-classified to 2019 after spending last season at Hughes, this 2018 top 60 player again showed why he is arguably the best scorer in the city. At the Triple Double Prospects/Cincinnati Friars Club Fall Showcase Brewton was at his best off the dribble, which allowed to get in the paint and finish at the rim or to get separation for pull-up jumpers. Many project DJ as a two-guard but he has the handle, athleticism and passing ability to play either guard spot.
MeKell Buries/6’1-G/Dohn Prep (2019)- A powerful lefty with a smooth stroke, Buries showed just how complete his game is at the TDP/Friars Showcase. Not only did he knock down jumpers, he showed his ability to get to the rim off the bounce and finish through contact. MeKell also showed he can run a team, playing with good pace with the ball in his hands and making very smart decisions. It was a very good Saturday for the former Newport (KY) product.
Alex Dotson/6’4-G/Purcell Marian (#78 2019)- Dotson made winning basketball plays during the 5 on 5 portion of the TDP/Friars event looking real comfortable playing on and off ball, making smart passes off dribble penetration and competing hard on the defensive end. But what was most impressive about Dotson’s day happened during the shooting drills. Alex knocked down mid-range jumper after mid-range jumper and even showed a capable three-point stroke as well. It could be the beginning of a big senior season for the Cavalier.
D’Marco Howard/6’1-G/Hamilton (#68 2019)- After his performance at the Top 250, where he was named Upperclassmen MVP, and the TDP/Friars Showcase Howard has proven to be one of the more athletic guards in SW Ohio. The Big Blue senior showed quick and easy bounce off the floor, quickness off the bounce and the potential to be a lockdown defender. And with his strength and athleticism he is very good at finishing in traffic and through contact.