CIF-SS Promising 2023 Prospects to Watch (Part 2)
There is never a shortage of talent in the CIF Southern Section. As a multitude of seniors departed off to the college level, many sophomores this upcoming season are now ready for an increased role on their respective teams with…
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Continue ReadingThere is never a shortage of talent in the CIF Southern Section. As a multitude of seniors departed off to the college level, many sophomores this upcoming season are now ready for an increased role on their respective teams with the hope of orchestrating a breakout season. These four sophomore talents are among those that have the potential to put together a stout second-year campaign.
Collins Acheampong Collins Acheampong 6'8" | C Fairmont Prep | 2023 CA-S — Fairmont Prep
Fairmont Prep was a potent team in the post on both sides of the floor last season. This trend should carry over into this upcoming campaign with 6’8” Collins Acheampong Collins Acheampong 6'8" | C Fairmont Prep | 2023 CA-S among the ones leading the way. Acheampong provides for a defensive presence in the paint thanks to his sheer shot-blocking ability. He has the reach to get up and swat away shot attempts or contest shots at the basket. The sophomore has quick feet to track back and challenge opponents in the restricted area. He is agile enough to cover enough space on the floor to work against even the shiftiest on-ball guards.
While Acheampong’s offensive game is a work in progress, the forward’s defensive prowess is what will be a factor to watch in his sophomore campaign.
Terrance Hampton Terrance Hampton 6'6" | PF Maranatha | 2023 State CA-S Jr. — Maranatha
Terrance Hampton Terrance Hampton 6'6" | PF Maranatha | 2023 State CA-S Jr. is slated to be a forward to watch with Maranatha. The forward is a quality low post player who does well to continually contest shots in the restricted area. He can go up for a block and even halt quick transition sequences. Positioning in the low post will be crucial for his development, whether it is for winning rebound battles or to prevent a big from maneuvering his way to the basket with ease. Mobility and post awareness will be two key factors to watch for this upcoming season. Look for Hampton to take a promising step in his game during his sophomore campaign.
Malik Khouzman — Walnut
Walnut has one creative on-ball talent in Malik Khouzman. The 5’10” guard finds ways to simply get to the basket, from angling his body as he hovers inside the paint to initiating contact at the rim. He has a quick first step that makes it difficult for defenders to contain when outside the painted area. Scoring-wise, Khouzman can improve by polishing on how he finishes at the basket. The sophomore guard poses a threat in fast-break situations as well due to his quick awareness in tracking back following a turnover.
Parker Turner — Brentwood
Parker Turner is a 3-point shooter to watch for. The sophomore possesses an excellent follow through on his shot. He is a magnet to the corner three spots on the floor, which can open up the offense for Brentwood. Turner will find a way to get to his spots and get shots off. His growth as a 3-point shooter will inevitably come down to efficiency. He is a streaky shooter but has the potential to become a player who can consistently hit multiple shots from beyond the arc per game.