DMV Roundtable: Top 250 Expo Stock Boosters, First Impressions And Benefits Of Attending
For this week’s edition of the DMV Roundtable, Adam Ayalew and I come together like Paul George and Kawhi Leonard in Los Angeles to take on multiple questions concerning this past Saturday’s Top 250 Expo. The turnout was nothing short…
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Continue ReadingFor this week’s edition of the DMV Roundtable, Adam Ayalew and I come together like Paul George and Kawhi Leonard in Los Angeles to take on multiple questions concerning this past Saturday’s Top 250 Expo. The turnout was nothing short of spectacular and the talent level was high. Countless players caught eyes, made a splash and for many, kick started their recruitment.
Without further ado, let’s dive in…
1. Which player boosted his stock the most after Saturday’s event?
Giacubeno: You can’t answer this question without Nate Lacey. The 6-foot-4 guard imposed his will throughout the duration of the event. He had a number of impressive rim rattling finishes that demanded the attention of onlooking coaches. It seemed as if prior to the event, Lacey had significant Division III offers, but at least a couple of Division II coaches were drawn to him when the event concluded. Lacey seems to be a lock as a Division II player, now programs just need to follow him this season. His athleticism, motor and skill set fit the blueprint for what it takes to be a successful player at said level.
If programs were unaware of Ryan Prather Jr. prior to Saturday, they should be well informed now that he is a consistent scorer. At 6-foot-4 and brute strength, Prather continuously attacked the rim and finished through contact. He also hit more than a handful of jumpers throughout the afternoon. As far as who added to their interest list, Prather is somewhere among the top.
Ayalew: I think Tyrae Washington and Nate Lacey could both make a case for biggest stock riser from the event. They both played extremely well throughout the day and set the tone respectively with their effort. Both are looking like bonafide division one prospects who should warrant a ton of interest from schools in need of immediate help.
2. Who were a couple of players that you hadn’t seen going into Saturday who left strong impressions on you?
Giacubeno: I have to start off with Dylan Long. The 2022 guard out of St. Vincent Pallotti was flat out dominant for a portion of the early games. The 6-foot guard started off by making his impact from deep off catch-and-shoot situations. He followed by surprising me with his athleticism in the open floor finishing above the rim. It seemed like every time I looked over on his team’s court, Long was making a play on offense or defense. He’ll be one to watch on a very guard talented Pallotti squad.
I finally got to see 2021 wing Jordan Brathwaite. The Glenelg Country standout has a unique blend of size, length and perimeter skills that are highly sought after in today’s game. After seeing his ability to shoot from the perimeter and off the dribble, I understand why Division I programs are getting involved with his recruitment.
Ayalew: The first kid who comes to mind is 2022 Gavin Walsh, a 6’6 post prospect from Loyola Blakefield. Not only is he capable of scoring inside and out, but Walsh moves well for his size. He is adept at defending ball screens and moving his feet to stay in front of smaller opponents. It will be interesting to see how his body continues to develop as his skills improve. Another kid I was really impressed with was Mark Rachic, a class of 2021 guard from Calvert. He just knows how to play and gives max effort at all times while on the court.