Way-Too-Early Season Preview: WDA Breakout Candidates
The Grassroots season came to an end at the end of July and while basketball season is still three-plus months away, it’s never too early for way-too-early season. Here are some guys who figure to take on bigger roles for…
Access all of Prep Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingThe Grassroots season came to an end at the end of July and while basketball season is still three-plus months away, it’s never too early for way-too-early season.
Here are some guys who figure to take on bigger roles for their respective teams next winter:
Tallon Klatt, Dickinson
Klatt averaged just less than 10 points and little more than five rebounds per game for a Dickinson team that was towards the bottom of the WDA. The Midgets figure to be much improved this winter and while Klatt will likely be third in the offensive pecking order, he could be a double-double type guy and huge impact on the defensive end if he plays like he did over the summer with ECI.
Max Tschosik, Bismarck
The Demons were senior heavy last year but head into this season with a lot of new faces. Max Tschosik barely played last year but he’ll have an opportunity to step into a starting role and with his combination of skill and smarts, expect him to more than hold his own at the point.
Caden Johnson, Minot
Johnson was a role player last year for the Magicians and while his scoring numbers may not take a huge leap, his impact should. The 6-foot-9 big man has the athleticism and mobility to be a top defensive presence in the conference and with the talent around him, he could push to average a double double by simply setting strong screens, rim-running, crashing the glass and finishing around the basket.
Jayce Lowman, Mandan
Mandan is going to have a lot of minutes available for new faces and a guy who figures to step into a sizeable role is junior wing Jayce Lowman. Lowman looked good over the summer with ND Attack and has length and athleticism to hold his own on the wing. He’s a solid perimeter shooter and does well with and without the ball. I wouldn’t be surprised if he averages double-figures.
Jacob Hilgemann, Jamestown
Hilgemann saw spot minutes last year for the Bluejays and showed signs of promise with a few solid performances. With Jamestown bringing back just one starter, he and fellow junior wing Carson Lamp will have a big opportunity to step into a complementary starring role. He showed he belonged this summer playing with the top 16U ECI team and can score from all three levels.
Ian Ely, Bismarck Century
Bismarck Century is going to be younger and more unproven than in recent years but the Patriots won’t lack talent. Ely is one of the guys in their very talented 2021 class and while he struggled a year ago in a backup role, he’ll have an opportunity to start and run the team this winter and possibly serve as a second or third scoring option behind Cade Feeney.