#HardWorkSZN Kickoff: Sunday Standouts
In the final day of the Hard Work Kickoff, we took a deeper look into the 2023 and 2021 class to find talent.
Cal Klesmit
Cal
Klesmit
6'2" | CG
Neenah | 2023
State
#235
Nation
WI
– Wisconsin Blizzard – 2023:
I didn’t see him play a full game all weekend, but in just a few 10-minute windows he showed potential as a pure point guard. He is an unselfish player, always scanning for teammates that are pushing the fastbreak or cutting in the lane. Klesmit also showed patience and high IQ in the lane, using pump fakes and good footwork to score.
Ethan Heck
Ethan
Heck
6'5" | SG
West Depere | 2023
State
WI
– Wisconsin Crusaders – 2023:
Heck is a fluid scorer that shot the ball particularly well today. There were flashes for him being a strong inside player, and if he grows more in the coming years he’ll be dangerously versatile on offense.
Levi Birkholz
Levi
Birkholz
5'2" | SG
Lakeside Luthersn | 2023
State
#290
Nation
WI
– Wisconsin Crusaders – 2023:
Birkholz jumped out to me today as a guy who could ascend to the top of his class. He can accelerate and pick up speed in transition but also has a high vertical for his grade. He is best around the rim and is especially good at finding ways to finish around taller defenders.
Dustin Beauprey
Dustin
Beauprey
6'3" | PG
Mt Top Christian | 2021
State
WI
– Wisconsin Crusaders – 2021
I could never gauge his level while playing at a small school, but today it was clear that he would be a blessing at any division two university. He’s a poised prospect that stays level-headed and relaxed throughout the game. He rarely missed against Indiana Red Storm this morning despite shooting the most on his team. He also brings more size to the table than most guards allowing him to stay strong against defenders pressing full court or playing physical down low.
James Graham
James
Graham
6'9" | SF
Nicolet | 2021
#59
Nation
WI
– Wisconsin Playground Club – 2021:
As much as I want to look at new players, I keep finding myself talking about Graham. The 6’8” small forward shined in perimeter action today. He could find multiple ways to isolate his defender then use his body to back them down or create separation by hopping backward into a jumper.
JJ Paider – Wisconsin Blizzard Donaldson – 2022:
Paider’s scoring arsenal was on full display this afternoon. At one point the big man rattled off three straight threes then got to the free-throw line twice in the following minutes. He also moved well off the ball, not just hovering in the paint or three-point line but crashing for rebounds and cutting to the block when guards attacked the rim.