Team Preview: A breakdown of the Carolina Riptide (16U)
The Carolina Riptide are already having quite the spring on the AAU circuit on the 16U level. I’ve had a chance to get a glimpse of them across a number of different tournaments from BigShots to PhenomHoops and continue to…
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Continue ReadingThe Carolina Riptide are already having quite the spring on the AAU circuit on the 16U level. I’ve had a chance to get a glimpse of them across a number of different tournaments from BigShots to PhenomHoops and continue to be impressed by this group. If you haven’t gotten a glimpse of them, you should. Here’s a look at their current roster.
Michael Dulin, [program_tooltip program_id='2078471' first='Carolina' last='Riptide']Michael Dulin – 6’2 – Wing
Michael Dulin is an emerging wing prospect that can get to the rim and knock it down from behind the arc. He’s got length on the wing as well as a high-IQ with the ball in his hands, constantly looking to make the right play.
Clay Hodges – 5’10 – Point Guard
Clay “Smoke” Hodges is the lifeblood of his team with his on-hands approach to defense. If you’re looking for a player that will guard anybody on the floor, whether it’s a 6-foot-10 player or beyond, Smoke is your guy. He’s an impact player on both ends and typically takes on the task of primary defender for his squad.
Christian Taylor – 6’3 – Forward
Christian Taylor, [program_tooltip program_id='2078471' first='Carolina' last='Riptide']Christian Taylor is still developing at the forward position and is lethal on the fastbreak. He’s got sneaky bounce that’s come out on numerous occasions in the form of big finishes at the rim. As he learns his role, he should emerge as a gritty rebounder and stretch-4.
Callahan Reed – 6’1 – Guard
Callahan Reed is an emerging combo guard that can make plays with or without scoring himself. He’s a versatile backcourt option that can score off the bounce and finishes tough in the paint.
Jacob Morgan – 6’5 – Forward
Jacob Morgan is the X-Factor for his Carolina Riptide squad. When he’s playing well, the results are typically positive for the whole group. He’s a versatile wing prospect at his size at 6-foot-8 and can score on all three levels. As he grows into his wiry frame, look out!
Jonas Courtney – 6’8 – Center
Jonas Courtney is a new face on this Carolina Riptide squad but as he’s worked his way into the rotation, his impact on the boards and in the paint is felt. He’s an emerging big man that is also quite the force on defense. As he figures out his role, look for him to shine.
Trace Forest – 5’9 – Guard
Trace Forest takes on the “Never back down” mentality of Clay Hodges in a very positive way. He can knock down 3-pointers and defend as well as step in and get his nose dirty by taking charges. Don’t look the blonde hair fool you.