Five Intriguing Prospects Of The 2022 Class
Throughout the next week, I’ll be taking a look at five prospects from each class that bring intrigue. There won’t be a set criteria for who I choose, but they will all be prospects who are still available on the…
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Continue ReadingThroughout the next week, I’ll be taking a look at five prospects from each class that bring intrigue. There won’t be a set criteria for who I choose, but they will all be prospects who are still available on the college market. The DMV is flooded with talent that could very well play this game for money some day, so there really is no right or wrong answer as to who shows or doesn’t show on this list.
Favour Aire | 6’10 | Bishop McNamara/New World
Aire is the no. 1 ranked prospect in our 2022 rankings. Obviously his height alone is something that will attract plenty of college programs, but his skill to go with that size at his age makes him a unique prospect. Aire finishes with soft touch when contested around the rim and knows how to finish strong over the top when the opportunity presents itself. Defensively, his extremely long arms paired with his height make for a nightmare as a shot blocker. He gets good position on his box outs and has good timing on grabbing the ball at its peak. His athleticism should improve as he grows into his body and if that happens, sky’s the limit.
Cesar Tchilombo | 6’9 | John Carroll/Global Squad
Tchilombo is another prospect of the 2022 class that presents great length at 6-foot-9. It took him some time to adjust to the American game since moving from Congo last summer, and while both he and his coaches will say there is much progress to be done, Tchilmbo saw immense improvement through his freshman campaign. He impacted games the most with his ability to alter or block shots in the paint. Much of the rebounding responsibilities fell on his shoulders and he came through strong in that category as well. His offensive game still needs some work, but he showed to be an efficient finisher around the rim and a decent free-throw shooter for his position. As he expands his offensive skill set and gets stronger, Tchilombo will likely become a household name in the region.
Tyrell Ward | 6’5 | DeMatha/New World
Ward is the type of prospect that every team needs: a dynamic wing player who can score and guard multiple positions. The 6-foot-5 sophomore possesses impressive athleticism and length that results in poster finishes. He can also shoot it with precision from three and mix it up off the dribble from the mid-range. Defensively, his versatility comes into full effect with him being able to guard multiple positions. He has the quickness to stay with guards and wings, while his length allows him to disrupt bigger player’s shots around the rim.
Tyson Commander | 6’3 | John Carroll/Team Melo
Commander proved to be one of the best scorers in the DMV as a freshman last season. The 6-foot-3 southpaw shoots it effectively from three, can finish with craft around the rim and showed flashes of a mid-range pull up off the bounce. As he looks to improve off his strong showing, many will be watching how he becomes more of an impact on the defensive end. Continued improvement on that end of the ball while becoming a vocal leader should catch the attention of mid major programs in the next year or so.
Noah Batchelor | 6’7 | Glenelg Country/Mid-Atlantic Select
Batchelor has used a productive spring and summer to boost his stock maybe more than anyone in this class. The 6-foot-7 wing received an invite to USA Basketball mini-camp, which resulted in multiple offers from high major programs. His combination of size and ability to shoot the outside shot fits the blueprint of what is coveted at his position in today’s game. Batchelor has athleticism as well as passion that is easy to see when he plays. He’s an active presence defensively when it comes to shots around the rim. The next vital progression in his development is being able to guard multiple positions competently. Once he does that, his rising stock will boom.