Practice Report: Gresham Gophers
Practice has started around the state and PrepHoops Oregon continues to make the rounds to get a look at teams before the season starts. Tuesday evening’s visit was to see the Gresham Gophers. The Gophers haven’t won many games the past two seasons but head coach Erik Lyslo is making progress with his program and they could very well fight for a playoff spot.
Here are observations on some of the team’s top players at practice:
Ethan Abrahamson (2020)
The lanky 6-foot-3 junior was one of the state’s top scorers last season and should have similar numbers this season. Always known as a deadeye shooter from long range, Abrahamson has worked hard on creating off of the dribble and it was evident in this practice. He also didn’t play selfishly at all, often looking for his teammates off of drives. There’s no question Abrahamson is a college player based on his shooting ability alone but what level will depend on how much strength he builds and how he further develops his skills.
Daello Portin-Chapman (2019)
Portin-Chapman comes to Gresham from Barlow where he was in the rotation for the Bruins state tournament team. It’s clear that he will be a major contributor offensively for the Gophers and as a good compliment to Abrahamson in the way that he scores the majority of his points creating off the dribble. Portin-Chapman excels in the open court and was a one-man press-breaker, often taking it coast-to-coast for the score. His three-point shot is a bit of a set shot, but he knocked it down when open.
Jalen Welch (2020)
A 6-foot guard, the lefty junior showed a very nice touch from three-point range, especially in the corners. Welch can also handle the ball a little bit, but he will likely benefit most from defensive attention on Abrahamson and Portin-Chapman.
Eric Puclic (2019)
Puclic should be another one that benefits from defenses geared towards stopping Abrahamson and Portin-Chapman. The offensive-minded senior had a nice touch from the outside and could also create off the dribble. The key with him appears to be shot selection.