Byhre Adding to His Game
WAUKESHA — Those who have watched Catholic Memorial 2019 power forward Rich Byhre over the last few years have seen a post prospect that lives around the rim.
During Sunday’s Preseason Shootout at Carroll College, we saw a different side of Byhre.
Playing point forward for the Crusaders, Byhre showed off some new tricks — bringing the ball up the floor, taking defenders off the dribble on the perimeter, and even coming off screens for catch-and-shoot 3-point opportunities.
“Earlier in my career, I was strictly a post guy,” Byhre told Prep Hoops Wisconsin. “I never really shot from the outside or brought the ball up. This summer, I really worked on my ball handling and my shot.
“I haven’t shown it a lot. This year, I’m going to play a lot of point guard. Hopefully, schools will see my versatility.”
Division 2 programs are becoming highly intrigued by the 6-foot-8 senior. Last month, Minnesota-Crookston was the first to offer Byhre.
“It was good to get that first offer out of the way,” said Byhre. “I’m hoping to get more during my senior season.
“They like that I’m a stretch four who can shoot the ball and run the floor. I can bring guys down into the post too and score.”
Byhre took an official visit to Crookston in the fall.
Byhre averaged 17 points and 8 rebounds as a junior.“They think I can make an impact as a freshman right away,” said Byhre. “I like their team. I think it fit in really well there.”
Winona State, Quincy, Minnesota-Duluth, Moorehead State, and Division 1 Miami OH are also expressing interest in Byhre going into his senior season.
“Winona State and Duluth seem serious,” said Byhre. “They just say I need to work harder on the defensive end and prove night in and night out that I’m one of the best players in the state.”
As a junior, Byhre averaged 17.1 points and 8.1 rebounds per game. However, Catholic Memorial won just five games in 2017-18.
Down three starters on Sunday, Byhre and the Crusaders were competitive with Sussex Hamilton, who is coming off an appearance in the Division 1 state tournament.
“Last year we were a young team,” he said. “A lot of guys took a big step over the summer. I’m really excited for this year.”
Byhre plans on playing out his senior season before making a collegiate decision. Teams who can offer early playing time, may have the inside track.
“I think I’m going to play out the entire season,” he said. “I just want a program where I can fit in right away, contribute as a freshman or sophomore. A good system, good coaches, and a place that feels like home.”