2023 Rankings: Top Shooting Guards/Combo Guards
As we continue to look at each position group for the 2023 Ranking recaps it is important to point out the amount of talent in the backcourt. Between Points Guards and Shooting/Combo Guards, there is a ton of talent in…
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Continue ReadingAs we continue to look at each position group for the 2023 Ranking recaps it is important to point out the amount of talent in the backcourt. Between Points Guards and Shooting/Combo Guards, there is a ton of talent in Ohio at the guards slots and plenty of Division I talent. Below you will find some of Ohio’s best in the 2023 class when it comes to the 2G position!
Marlon Barnes (Brush)- Barnes has showed why he is the best SG prospect in the state in the 2023 class. At 6’6 he has already lured the interest of Miami (FL) and will likely have more HM schools offer before he’s done. Caught my attention at Flyin’ to the Hoop with his shooting touch, but had a different attribute to watch while running with Bates Fundamentals. Showed he is a solid passer and can be a distribution guy as well as a scoring threat. Not only can he shoot from range but Barnes can also finish at a high level at the rim.
Romel Hightower Romel Hightower 6'5" | SF Toledo Start | 2023 State OH (Cardinal Stritch)- Hightower will be one of the best players in the 2023 class out of NW Ohio this upcoming season. Standing at 6’5, he has serious size for a 2G. Slashes to the rim and creates scoring opportunities for himself. When he attacks, dribbles and penetrates with a purpose. Fights to beat his man off the bounce. Utilizes his length when he can and showed he can be a primary scoring threat.
Lance Hayes Lance Hayes 6'4" | SG St. Vincent-St. Mary's | 2023 State OH (SVSM)- Hayes did not have a chance to be a difference maker last year with SVSM varsity due to the amount of talent on their roster. This season, although the starting backcourt is one of the state’s best, Hayes will have an opportunity to become a role player and has done so with All Ohio Red. Great passer. Finds open guys whether it be dribbling at the defender or using the dribble to great space for a better pass. Controls his body when attacking and doesn’t go off balance.
Will Maxwell Will Maxwell 6'5" | SF Oakwood | 2023 State OH (Oakwood)- Maxwell’s interior play while with Oakwood allowed him to become one of the state’s best CGs in the 2023 class. A 6’3 lengthy guard with inside-out capabilities, Maxwell gets his shoulders squared when attacking off the block. Can step out and hit shots from the perimeter if left open. Showed improved explosiveness on the AAU scene and has now added a good dribble drive aspect to his game. Should be Oakwood’s best scoring threat next season.
Dayjuan Anderson (Ponitz)- Caught my attention at the Dayton Open Runs with his improved defense on-the-ball. Known for his shooting touch, Anderson will be a primary scoring threat for Ponitz as a sophomore. Excelling in catch-and-shoot situations, Anderson cannot be left alone or he will bury easy outside shots. Showed consistency with his midrange shooting.
Kellon Smith Kellon Smith 6'1" | CG Shaker Heights | 2023 State OH (Shaker Heights)- Smith looked solid with OBC this Summer and was one of the more intriguing prospects on display. Longer framed CG. Creates offense with the dribble. Uses a combination of dribbles and moves to be one of the better playmakers on his team. Defends the perimeter with quick footwork. One of several young pieces for Shaker Heights and will have a chance to really impress as he continues his high school career.