Dayton Sectional Names to Know in D1
While watching D2-D4 games are fun for the small town atmosphere, seeing new names, and the fundamental focused styles of play, D1 games are when we see big crowds, more athletic teams, and in Dayton almost yearly, a surprise team…
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Continue ReadingWhile watching D2-D4 games are fun for the small town atmosphere, seeing new names, and the fundamental focused styles of play, D1 games are when we see big crowds, more athletic teams, and in Dayton almost yearly, a surprise team or two. This year we have two Cinderella teams as Springboro and Stebbins both advanced in their respective games. Today I look at my top performers from Thursday’s games.
Alex Ball (2021) Miamisburg- Not the tallest player, but plays with a ton of heart. Breaks down defenders on the perimeter and was getting in the lane at ease. Quick footed and strong upper body. Welcomes contact on the defensive end allowing opponent to make contact first. Provided much of the offensive support for the Vikings in a loss.
Willeon Yates (2020) Springboro- Played like he had something to prove in this matchup. Electrifying speed. Crossover is too quick for defenders to read. Liked to push the tempo and try to create fast break opportunities. Had great court vision in half-court setting. Defensively was very good as an on-ball defender, but his help side defense has to improve. Although he’s under 6 foot tall, plays with a high motor and not afraid to defend bigger opponents.
Darren Taborn (2020) Sidney- The Grand Valley State football commit had the toughest matchup of the night, being tasked with defending Stebbins guard Jalen Tolbert. Taborn did a solid job in the first half defending with his size and length. Made Tolbert work for points and forced some tough layups in the half. Knows how to use his size and incredibly tough to screen. Strong build especially arms and upper body. Offensively showed flashes of multi-level scoring.
Jalen Tolbert (2020) Stebbins- Floor general for the Indians. Creates offense with the dribble drive. Shifty at the rim and showed he can avoid contact in the paint. Extremely quick and is hard to defend once he gets his first step. Has longer arms which makes him a threat on the glass and has a high vertical as well. Blew by Taborn in the 2nd half and led Stebbins on both ends of the floor. Very under-the-radar prospect.
Ryan Hickey (2021) Stebbins- Pretty good sized SF and lengthy. Only 6’4 but plays bigger. High post IQ. Kept his dribble alive in the post and is unselfish with the ball. Gave up contested shots for more open teammates to shoot. Defensively has to work on controlling his block attempts and do a better job of getting a hand on shots. Could be a target for D3’s if he adds a little more bulk and can demonstrate an ability to defend wings and bigs.