Sunday Spotlight: 2021’s Who Could Take A Leap
Diving right into it, I think these players could really take leaps as a junior, for various reasons. More playing time, for some, or because they have took those leaps you expect to see. I picked five players in the…
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Continue ReadingDiving right into it, I think these players could really take leaps as a junior, for various reasons.
More playing time, for some, or because they have took those leaps you expect to see.
I picked five players in the area, that could see big improvements within the next year, in the 2021 class.
2021’s:
• Garner Wallace (6’5” / WF / Pickerington Central): Garner Wallace had a couple breakout moments last season when he showed he was a two-way player that could fill it up. Since then, Wallace has showed he’s continuing to perfect his craft and getting better. Getting faster and stronger the Tiger is getting to the hoop with ease and bettering his shooting. Still aggressive on defense, guarding multiple positions with a long frame. Stepping up into a lead role, Wallace will produce more in many categories. A step I believe the junior is more then capable of.
• Ayden Rich (6’2” / WG / Marion Harding): When you watch Ayden, you get a feel that there’s plenty of upside there. A force on defense, a good vertical and athleticism, Rich certainly holds his own on defense. Most of his scoring comes on back cuts to the basket or back-downs. If Ayden can come around on the offensive end, and gain the confidence I think he could be more of a force in the MOAC. The Harding guard could be a nice D3 player when it’s all said and done.
• Henry Hinkle (6’0” / G / Olentangy Liberty): A rotational role last year Hinkle was in, and often played well. The junior guard works well off of the catch-and-shoot. Capable to work off the bounce, a summer of workouts could tremendously help Hinkle’s strength to the hoop. With Olentangy losing a lot to graduation, Hinkle is going to move into a bigger role.
• Jackson Izzard (6’2” / G / Jonathan Alder): Jackson Izzard broke onto the scene back in his freshman season, but has improved tremendously since then. Capable shooter, getting stronger which allows him to be tough through the lane. Able to play either guard spot, the versatility is there. Solid on ball defender too. Jackson should take another step forward this year as he continues to grow. One of the more underrated scorers in Central Ohio in my opinion.
• Jack Pugh (6’6” / WF / Hilliard Bradley): Injuries have been tough for the Bradley wing-forward in his first couple years. But, this could be the year where Pugh stays healthy and shows what he can do in a full season. At 6’6” and a strong frame, Jack is a man amongst boys a lot of the time. Tough inside on the block, also doesn’t give up much room on defense. Pugh can play above the rim, and has a nice touch. Could very well be a huge season for Pugh and the whole Bradley team as a whole.