Poplar Bluff Showdown: Top Forwards
The 32nd Annual Poplar Bluff Showdown was loaded with talented prospects and featured several talented forwards who should be on the radar of college coaches at all levels. Here’s our rundown of the best of the best from this great…
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Continue ReadingThe 32nd Annual Poplar Bluff Showdown was loaded with talented prospects and featured several talented forwards who should be on the radar of college coaches at all levels. Here’s our rundown of the best of the best from this great event.
6’7 So Tamaury Releford – Fayetteville (*pictured above, credit fhsbulldogs.com)
The Bulldog’s bruising sophomore big man caused all kinds of problems for defenses throughout the tournament. Despite being an underclassmen, he has a very imposing frame and polished footwork and touch around the basket. He used his body extremely well to gain positioning for seals and lobs over the top and was an absolute monster on the boards. He was named to the All-Tournament team and amassed 51 points and a pair of double doubles over the weekend. He is ranked the #7 overall ’21 prospect by ArkansasBasketballRankings.com and if he continues to progress at this rate he will be a very highly sought after commodity in the years to come.
6’4 Sr Kyle Moore – Jonesboro
The ultra athletic Hurricane forward is a very versatile athlete that creates match-up problems regularly. He is lethal in transition and is a big time high flyer (as evidenced by his Slam Dunk Competition title). He can attack from the perimeter and finish above the rim. He is very smooth in the post and showed off impressive footwork and touch with either hand. We were also very impressed with his ability to block and alter nearly every shot within his reach. He is a winner and a two time state champion who currently holds an offer from D2 Pittsburgh State.
6’5 Sr Anthony Jones – Humboldt
Speaking of gifted athletes, my goodness. Anthony Jones can absolutely fly. The soaring Viking hybrid forward introduced himself to Poplar Bluff’s rims with 5 rim rocking jams in the first half of their opening round game. He looks to throw down at every opportunity and is an absolute must box-out for the defense if they want to avoid being on the wrong end of a poster. He was a top 5 scorer for the weekend and was named to the All-Tournament team. Anthony checks in at #52 in the Prep Hoops Tennessee 2019 rankings.
6’3 Sr Dominique Hardimon – Poplar Bluff
Yes, I know Dom is probably listed as a guard and will be mentioned on that list as well. But let’s be honest here, he can and does play all 5 positions on the floor. And when we are talking about guys who can operate in the paint it would be a crime to not include him in the list. He is a freight train with the most incredible motor I have seen so far this year. He was the catalyst in the Mules run to their second consecutive tournament title and made a living in the lane. He bullied his way to the rim and went right at his defenders finishing with heavy contact. He can post and score. He cleaned up the offensive glass. Not to mention he was the only unanimous All-Tournament team selection. More to come on him in upcoming posts.
6’6 Sr DaQuarius Harris – Kirby
DaQuarius came on strong for the Cougars in the last two games of the tournament. He is an extremely long and bouncy forward that alters shots and cleans up on the glass. His offensive game is improving daily and he has truly developed into a double-double machine for Kirby. His raw talent and extreme athleticism has him at #35 in the Prep Hoops Tennessee 2019 rankings.
6’4 Jr Xavier Joubert – Central
It took Xavier about a half to settle in at Poplar Bluff, but once he did he made himself right at home. Against the hosts in the opening round the bouncy forward had a huge second half that nearly led his team to the upset win. He showcased a smooth mid-range jumper and attacked the rim with a purpose from the high post which led to several free throw opportunities. He has the ability to score inside and passes very well from the block. We expect to see his stock continue to rise moving towards his senior season.