Preseason All-Conference: Greater Metro
Preseason POTY: Patrick Baldwin Jr. – I would call this an obvious pick, but you already know that. The number one player in the nation, the leading scorer for Phenom University-Team Herro, he’s all that and only a junior. Baldwin…
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Continue ReadingPreseason POTY: Patrick Baldwin Jr. – I would call this an obvious pick, but you already know that. The number one player in the nation, the leading scorer for Phenom University-Team Herro, he’s all that and only a junior.
Baldwin averaged 19.0 points and 8.2 rebounds per game last season, which is impressive considering what he sees from a defensive standpoint (hounding defenders, feisty double-teams, and weeks of predetermined planning from opposing coaches). But if I were to provide one bit of criticism — which is more of a preference than anything — it’s that I’d like to see him utilize his frame more when attacking the rim.
Preseason First-Team:
Patrick Baldwin Jr., F, Sussex Hamilton – Baldwin is a shoo-in here. I almost feel condescending explaining why the best junior in the world should make his all-conference team. Next player.
Aiden Flynn, F, Marquette – Flynn has kept a low profile for a while now. He’s not particularly flashy and isn’t the primary option on his grassroots team, but offensively he can score the pill. Last year, Flynn averaged 17.2 points per game, shooting 55.3 percent from the field while hauling in 5.7 rebounds per game.
When watching Flynn this summer, my analysis quickly became about his playstyle. He plays with pace and agenda, as he often attacks gaps with a methodical drive and a counter-move on hand. I see him taking another step into the 20 points per game bracket next season and being an easy placement in the conference first-team.
David Joplin, F, Brookfield Central – I’ve covered Joplin ad nauseum this summer, and everything from his versatility to expanding range signals to a breakout year. As a sophomore, Joplin led Brookfield Central (the division one State champions) in points and rebounds per game. Next season, he and Ben Nau have the unquestioned authority on offense. Expect him to use it to the fullest and become a double-double per game player.
Ben Nau, G, Brookfield Central – Nau will fill his brother’s shoes next season, a task he’s well suited to execute. He played alongside Cole throughout the last two years, and this summer he’s been soaking up knowledge from Phenom University’s 17U squad. He’s been a student for a few seasons now — playing the role of enforcer next season will be different, but well within his capabilities.
Nau is a guard whose offensive toolset is polished beyond his age. Like a seasoned vet (which, in some ways, he has become), Nau works the offense into a well-oiled machine. He scores to the tune of 9.3 per game and repeatedly creates opportunities for his elite frontcourt.
Tanner Resch, G, Sussex Hamilton: Resh eked out a final spot here courtesy of a terrific spring on offense. His jump shot is a high-arcing laser with pinpoint accuracy, and he utilizes it to shred defenses and open up driving lanes. With Patrick Baldwin soaking up defenders, Resch will be a thorn in the side of opposing defenses that struggle to contain Sussex Hamilton’s lethal duo.
Honorable Mentions: Leon Bond, Hayden Doyle, John Lovelace Jr., Steven Clay, Seth Trimble, Malik Abdul-Wahid, Brian Parzych, JT Hoytink