Scouting Toledo: Underclassmen Notes
We went to Toledo last week for a three-game slate, seeing six programs who have consistently produced college prospects over the last 20-plus years. Tuesday, we began at Toledo Central Catholic for their game against Whitmer. Thursday, a match of…
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Continue ReadingWe went to Toledo last week for a three-game slate, seeing six programs who have consistently produced college prospects over the last 20-plus years.
Tuesday, we began at Toledo Central Catholic for their game against Whitmer. Thursday, a match of 9-0 teams in the Northern Lakes League, Southview at Perrysburg. Then, finally, a Friday rivalry game between Toledo St. Francis and Toledo St. John’s.
We saw a few underclassmen for the first time and, also, drew new observations on kids we’ve tracked throughout their careers. This particular Scouting Toledo recap is about the underclassmen!
Before we cover the players, you’ll notice an italicized game description of each game. Those are meant to provide context. Every game isn’t created equal. It’s important to understand the context, in order to fully understand the individual contributions.
Whitmer (38) at Toledo Central Catholic (57)
Central did pretty much whatever they wanted offensively. Very efficient performance from the Irish. Whitmer was missing 6-foot-7 freshman center Ja’Vaughn Jones. Their lack of size on the interior was capitalized on by Central.
Kasey Hunt (2022) | 6-2 SG | Toledo Central Catholic
stats: 5 points, 1 rebound
Very intrigued by the flashes we’ve seen from Hunt — this being our second time observing the sophomore. He’s skilled, shoots it well, and makes sound basketball moves. Tuesday, Hunt impressed with a clever step-through around the basket and a 3-pointer. Although Hunt is slight of frame, he’s young with room to grow. Promising bloodline.
Bottom line: Hunt’s physical development will be vital for him as a prospect; as I do believe he will possess the necessary skill to play at the next level.
Chico Johnson (2023) | 6-1 G | Toledo Central Catholic
stats: 3 rebounds
Johnson 100-percent looks the part. He has springy legs and a lot burst athletically. Promising size for a freshman guard, too. Although he didn’t do much against Whitmer, his shooting mechanics and handle looked more than capable.
Toledo St. Francis (45) at Toledo St. John’s (60)
High-energy environment. Halfcourt game with occasional fastbreaks off turnovers. St. John’s executed and consistently made 3-pointers, proving to be the difference in the game.
Martin Beredo (2022) | 6-7 PF | Toledo St. Francis
stats: 9 points, 2 rebounds
Beredo is a high-upside pick-and-pop forward with an appealing combination of traits. On Friday specifically, Beredo nailed three 3-pointers with his feet set. Beredo showed confidence coming off the bench, hitting a shot on what I believe was his first touch of the game. His jumper is a clear strength.
Furthermore, the sophomore is a legitimate 6-foot-7 with a lanky, rangy build. Although young, he’s slight of frame, which makes him more suited to defend the perimeter than the basket. Crucially, he moves his feet well in space and makes use of his length by staying wide in passing lanes. Impressive quickness for his size and he can be seen chasing guards around screens away from the ball. Excited to see more layers to Beredo’s game as he adds playing time and comes into a bigger role — both in the high school and grassroots seasons.
Steven McCoy (2022) | 5-8 PG | Toledo St. Francis
stats: 12 points
McCoy looked much more comfortable Friday than he did in their first game of the season, when he came off the bench against Stritch and never found a rhythm. The sophomore dual-sport athlete (football), used quickness and change of pace to get into the teeth of the defense. Converted balanced two-foot floaters consistently, also adding four three throws. Compact build.
Michael Greenlee (2023) | 5-9 PG | Toledo St. John’s
stats: 5 points, 2 rebounds
This was the best version of Greenlee we’ve watched since the Toledo Top 64 back in September. He showed poise, pace, and on-ball defensive prowess. Although undersized for now, Greenlee gets to his spots on the floor with pure skill. As he adds size, he will become very dynamic as a playmaker. Sat down and stayed attached at the point of attack defensively.