Way-Too-Early Season Preview: Class B forwards to Watch
It’s never too early for Way-Too-Early season! With the AAU season ending at the end of July, there’s plenty to digest from the end of last year leading up to the start of next winter season. Here are some of…
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Continue ReadingIt’s never too early for Way-Too-Early season! With the AAU season ending at the end of July, there’s plenty to digest from the end of last year leading up to the start of next winter season.
Here are some of the top forwards to watch in Class B
Jaden Mitzel, Shiloh Christian
Mitzel is one of the returning all-state guys at the Class B level and will be among the school’s all-time leading scorers by the time his career ends. He’s not the tallest guy but at 6-foot-2, he’s a walking mismatch because of his ability to shoot, play in the post, rebound, drive and pass. Shiloh always seems to reload with talent but given the amount of newcomers the Skyhawks will likely have next winter, it’s shaping up to the Mitzel show.
Gavin Keller, Kindred
Keller is one of the best prospects in the 2021 class and will likely be an all-state pick the next couple years. The 6-foot-8 junior to be can handle the ball and shoot from the perimeter but he also showed this summer that he’s willing and able to get gritty and mix it up in the paint. He’s also a smart defender and will once again be the anchor for a Kindred defense that should be strong.
Bronson Walter, Four Winds/Minnewaukan
Four Winds/Minnewaukan has a number of really talented perimeter pieces and the Indians can overwhelm the competition. But when they need to slow the game down, they’ve got one of the state’s best big men inside in Walter. The 6-foot-9 junior to be consistently scores in double figures, using a big frame and soft touch to efficiently produce.
Joe Hurlburt, Enderlin
Hurlburt is one of the top prospects in the state heading into his sophomore year. The 6-foot-9 big man averaged 17.7 points and 13 rebounds per game a year ago and showed promise playing with D1 Minnesota on the grassroots circuit. He’s a good shooter and if he continues to fill out and improve as a finisher inside, the Division I offers (UND offered this summer) will continue to come in.
Mayson Bolme, Oak Grove
Bolme had a breakout junior year for the Grovers, averaging 12 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game. At 6-foot-4, Bolme’s versatility is valuable as he’s a decent outside shooter, a strong ball handler and slasher and active on the glass. His defense is a plus and he’s capable of guarding up or down in big or small lineups.
Seth Nelson, Carrington
Nelson is arguably the best senior forward in Class B and will have to put up huge numbers if Carrington is going to compete for a region title again. The 6-foot-4 combo forward is difficult to match up as he’s smooth, explosive, skilled and plays with good energy. He’s a solid ball handler and good passer and he finishes at the rim as well as anybody.