Top 250 Expo: Top Defenders
Prep Hoops Dakotas Top 250 Expo: Top Defenders The Prep Hoops Top 250 Expo hit Sioux Falls Sunday, as high school players from North and South Dakota braved the snow in an effort to get into the gym and compete.…
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Continue ReadingPrep Hoops Dakotas Top 250 Expo: Top Defenders
The Prep Hoops Top 250 Expo hit Sioux Falls Sunday, as high school players from North and South Dakota braved the snow in an effort to get into the gym and compete.
While the play, in general, favored the offensive players, there was plenty to glean from how guys represented themselves on the defensive end of the floor. Here were some of the top defenders from Sunday
Antoine Durband
On a day where defense is naturally at a massive disadvantage, Durband had a good day holding his own defensively. He played with great competitiveness and did a good job altering shot attempts in his vicinity, and protecting against dribble-penetration. He’s got the quickness to stick to opposing ballhandlers and he’s more than capable of being physical on the perimeter.
Jaeden Haefs
Haefs did a great job consistently limiting dribble-penetration Sunday, using a combination of quick feet, active hands and excellent anticipation. His length is certainly an asset on that end of the floor, as he’s able to divert drive attempts and not only limit his own man, but apply help in the passing lanes when necessary.
Adam Jenkins
Jenkins is an imposing young big man who can make a big impact as a rim protector, using his ability to elevate at the rim with his size to consistently bother opposing slashers. His fluidity is impressive for a underclass big man, as he’s able to run the floor (which impacts both his offensive game and defensive game) and change ends efficiently. He rebounds his area at a high rate and he’s got active hands inside, which he put to use deflecting interior passes.
Michael Nhial Michael Nhial 6'7" | SF West Fargo Sheyenne | 2022 State NDNhial has a lot of tools to be excited about but perhaps his best value is his flexibility on the defensive end of the floor. He’s got the athleticism and smarts to not only get out and guard people on the perimeter, but he’s aware and can protect the paint over the course of a possession. He’s not a jumping jack of a big man, but he’s got plenty of length to block shots and alter looks at the rim, and he’s physical enough to limit penetration and easy interior touches.
Ethan Burnett
The Rapid City lead guard had a great day particularly on the defensive end of the floor, setting the tone at the point of attack and limiting easy dribble penetration. He did a good job fighting through screens and sticking to his counterpart when off the ball. His awareness as a helper was a positive, and his aggressiveness off the ball allowed him to create transition opportunities for his teammates.