Class of 2022: Smaller Guards With Big Game
The class of 2022 rankings were updated earlier this week and one thing that you may notice is several guards 5’10 and below ranked in the top 35. The sophomore class does not have a load of size, but there…
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Continue ReadingThe class of 2022 rankings were updated earlier this week and one thing that you may notice is several guards 5’10 and below ranked in the top 35. The sophomore class does not have a load of size, but there are several smaller guards that have big hearts and big game. A fair amount of our coverage revolves around taller guards, wings and posts, but as a state that has produced countless high level smaller guards, including Isaiah Thomas, we have to give a nod to the next crop rising up.
Smaller Guards With Big Game:
2022 5’9 PG Braeden Smith (Seattle Prep) – A floor general and player that produces on both sides of the ball. Braeden has a very good basketball IQ and plays with outstanding pace in transition. On the defensive end, he is quick laterally and slides his feet with the best of them. A two year starter for Seattle Prep, I really expect Braeden to take a big jump next year and lead Seattle Prep to some more big Metro League wins. In the meantime, he helped lead his team to a huge District win over Mercer Island, guaranteeing Seattle Prep a spot at regionals. He’s put together a very solid high school career to this point.
2022 5’10 CG DaeKwon Watson (Auburn HS) – A combo guard capable of handling it and getting his team into half court offense, but he is probably best at putting it in the hoop. Watson can take over games getting to the basket, hitting from the outside and just playing with a ton of energy. His stock has risen and he is a player to watch as the playoffs come to a close and moving forward into the Spring and Summer. *Feature image
2022 5’7 PG Earl Riley (Franklin HS) – Riley stands at about 5’7 max and he is thin framed, but he has the heart of a lion! Statistically, his season did not go as planned if you ask him, but I expect him to have a big Spring and Summer season and get back on track for his junior season. He is cat-quick and a pest on both sides of the ball. Obviously, people will knock him for his stature, but he is entertaining to watch and capable of making big plays. He held his own as a freshman at the WIBCA D1 viewing event last June.
2022 5’8 PG Bryson Metz (King’s Way Christian) – Standing at 5’8 and 140 pounds, Metz is not the largest player anytime he steps on the floor, but his basketball IQ, toughness and will to win is right up there with anyone. He has led his team to a top 10 ranking at the 1A level all year and appear to be right on track to make the state tournament again.
2022 5’10 PG Asjon Anderson (Mt. Tahoma HS) – A big time stock riser this Winter! Previously unranked, Anderson catapulted himself into the top 35 with an outstanding sophomore season so far. He has the ability to shoot it from deep, get to the basket and score with skill. Anderson is really just a crafty basketball player all around. His development and on-court performance has been impressive and if he keeps it up, he will find himself in the top 15-20 at this rate.