Havoc in the Heartland: Garcia’s Top Out-of-State Performers
Although Ohio’s premier programs in attendance were my primary focus this weekend, a few non-Buckeye State players caught my eye at Havoc in the Heartland:
Fernando Perez (2022) | 6-0 SG | Epic Hoopz 15U / Larkin (IL)
Perez is shot-making guard from both inside and outside. He has an over-the-head shooting release and the rotation on his shot is stunningly tight. Most importantly, his jumper goes in the basket. Athletic build with length. Finished a couple tough runners in traffic. Plays extremely hard, winning loose balls and soaring to the rim in transition without fear.
Brandon Leach (2021) | 6-1 PG | Wisconsin United 16U / James Madison (WI)
Leach was able to get to the rim every time he wanted on Saturday afternoon. Very skilled and quick ball-handler who broke down his man and finished in traffic with either hand. Leach is an undersized guard, but for what he lacks in stature he makes up for it with quickness. Also made plays for others when he drove, mostly tallying assists on drop-down passes to forwards. Good shooter.
Ethan Dunn (2022) | 6-9 C | MBA 15U / East Lansing (MI)
Dunn, simply, rebounded the crap out of the ball in 15U semifinal game on Sunday. He controlled the glass because of his sheer size but he also proved capable of tracking down balls across the lane, which speaks to his mobility and athleticism. Gets up and down the floor at an impressive pace for a 6-foot-9 rising sophomore.
Jack Karasinski (2022) | 6-5 SF | MBA 15U / Grand Rapids Central Catholic (MI)
Karasinski is a skilled wing who can really shoot the ball and creates shots efficiently. Hits shots over the top of smaller defenders and has a mature game. Shot-maker from the mid-range and distance. Lengthy athlete who can move his feet and defend quick guards.
Linden Holder (2021) | 6-0 PG | Michigan Goonies 16U / Warren De La Salle (MI)
Holder’s shifty handle allows him to breakdown defenders on a regular basis. Consistently gets into the second level of the defense with his changes of speed and shows impressive footwork and creativity with the ball on finishes. Holder is more of a scorer than passer when he drives. He can shoot it off the bounce, too, which is important because of his ability to separate. Quick hands and caused a few turnovers by poking the ball away.
Cooper Laufenburger (2021) | 6-3 SG | Wear Out The Net 16U / Lakeville North (MN)
Having been impressed with Laufenburger a few weeks ago in Madison, we were excited to get another look at the 2-guard in Indy. He showed defensive ability by staying in front of his man and using his strength to guard the drive. Strong kid with good positional size. Also like his offensive game for its simplicity. He doesn’t over-dribble, makes the right play quickly, and is an elite shooter out of a stand-still or pull-up.
Josh Streit (2021) | 6-7 PF | Wear Out The Net 16U / Eden Valley Watkins (MN)
Minnesota’s no. 11 rising junior brings a unique combination of skill and size to the table. Not a remarkably explosive athlete yet, but Streit can put it on the floor and get past defenders on the face-up with shot fakes. He is both a playmaker and scorer when he slashes. Makes the right play. Would like to see him get into the habit of seeking contact around the basket. Lean, athletic build.