Practice Report: Century Jaguars
Practice has started around the state and PrepHoops Oregon continues to make the rounds to get a look at teams before the season starts. Wednesday morning’s visit was to see the Century Jaguars. Head coach Scott Kellar is the dean of coaches in the new Pacific Conference and while he doesn’t have much size, he has a young group that could surprise people on any given night.
Missing this season will be Daniel Berger (2019) who unfortunately injured his knee. Here are observations on some of the team’s top players at practice:
Eddy Essien (2021)
The scoring will likely be done by committee, but expect that Essien will be one of the main contributors. The sub 6-foot guard may lack size, but he has a pretty nice perimeter jumper and has the ability to create off the dribble. The sophomore doesn’t force the issue either, instead takes what the defense gives him.
Jospin Mugisha (2020)
Mugisha is a well-built, muscular 6-foot wing who missed last season due to injury. He runs the floor well and uses his strength to help out on the boards and on defense. Mugisha also shows a decent touch from three-point range as he canned a number of open threes.
Ikin Chan (2020)
Chan will be the starting point guard for the Jaguars. The 5-foot-8 junior doesn’t appear to be much of an offensive threat, but he capably handles the ball and runs the offense. Chan did hit a couple of jumpers when he was left open.
Ethan Parish (2021)
Parish is a lanky 6-foot-1 wing. He exhibited a nice feel for the game to go along a pretty nice looking perimeter jumper. Parish lacks strength but his length made a difference on the boards and on defense. Definitely a player whose development is worth watching.
Kyler Somers (2019)
Century lacks size but Somers is a wildcard at 6-foot-5. He’s extremely raw – this is the first time the senior has played organized basketball as his main sport has been baseball – but the lefty has been improving rapidly. Somers isn’t particularly mobile, but he understands how to take up space and he showed the ability to finish plays around the hoop.