CIF-SS 2023 Impact Players to Watch
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The CIF Southern Section is stacked with players who just find ways to influence the game. Whether it is with their offensive attack or defensive work rate, such players do what it takes to impact games. These four 2023 players…
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Continue ReadingThe CIF Southern Section is stacked with players who just find ways to influence the game. Whether it is with their offensive attack or defensive work rate, such players do what it takes to impact games. These four 2023 players are among many who can provide just that.
Kenny Manzi Kenny Manzi 6'6" | SF Rolling Hills Prep | 2023 State CA-S — Rolling Hills Prep
One player who has high upside is Kenny Manzi Kenny Manzi 6'6" | SF Rolling Hills Prep | 2023 State CA-S . The 6’6” forward has the size and length to provide mismatch problems for opponents in the painted area. He rebounds well due to not only his reach but also his developing work in boxing out. Still, this area of his game can be one that if improved, it can elevate him into being a player who can post double-digits in rebounds with ease. More so, Manzi runs the floor well and balances Rolling Hills Prep’s offense with low post scoring. This is one talent with overall promising potential as a versatile forward.
Jayden Mojica — Maranatha
Jayden Mojica is a complementary piece to Maranatha’s well-rounded offensive attack. Mojica is one guard who can work his way to creating his own shot. Ball-handling is a work in progress for the 6’0” guard, but he is precise in navigating his way to getting off shots amidst pressure from an opponent. As alluded to, he complements Maranatha’s offense in a number of ways, such as by being a distributor on the court. From drive and kick situations to simple ball movement sequences, he has his way with getting others involved during offensive possessions.
Mojica is one confident and relentless talent who should be on par for an improved sophomore campaign.
Ryan Huston — Canyon
Ryan Huston is one of the many high-energy players on the Canyon team. Huston centers his game on the defensive side of the ball by being a disruptor. He can jump in front of passes for steals or contend shots from the paint to the 3-point line. The high-energy motor that he plays with is one that will bode well as he continues to develop his play on defense. More so, the 5’11” guard often takes the responsibility of being a pass-first ball-handler. Whether on transition sequences or in a half-court setting, Huston aims at being an unselfish distributor when on the ball.
In the big picture, if Huston can take great strides with his overall offensive game, he should be slated to take a significant step with his play over in his sophomore campaign.
Mikah Ballew Mikah Ballew 6'6" | SF Valencia | 2023 State CA-S — Alemany
Mikah Ballew Mikah Ballew 6'6" | SF Valencia | 2023 State CA-S has promise on the defensive end. The 6’3” talent can alternate between taking on assignments in defending guards and forwards as well. Ballew has the potential to provide stout versatility as a defender with the ability to take on isolation sequences or be a help defender in the painted area. His size and frame can help him take on such matchups on the floor. On the other side of the floor, Ballew exerts an influence as an outside shooter. He might not have a swift release, but he can deliver from catch-and-shoot situations.