Rock N Ball League: Black Magic 22 vs Showtime
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PHI took in the action from the Rock N Ball High School Winter League! We dive into a fun contest with a ton of prospects in Rock N Ball League: Black Magic 22 vs Showtime. Grant Newell Grant Newell…
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Continue ReadingPHI took in the action from the Rock N Ball High School Winter League! We dive into a fun contest with a ton of prospects in Rock N Ball League: Black Magic 22 vs Showtime.
Grant Newell Grant Newell 6'7" | PF Whitney Young | 2021 State IL (Whitney Young – 2021)
There were five potential high-major 2022 and 2023 prospects in this game, but the most dominant player on the floor was an unsigned senior. Newell has been a top 20 prospect his entire career and was primed for a breakout senior campaign after the way he had played in the summer and fall. His progress continues especially in the production category. Newell was dominant right from the start with a monster dunk on a dump off pass. He was most effective using his quickness in the paint catching passes in the mid-post and taking them to the basket. Scored through or around contact on numerous occasions. Handles have greatly improved which allows him to score off the bounce from almost anywhere on the floor. Had an impressive spin move in the paint. Also stretched it out to three on one occasion. The potential is now being realized! Mid-major and low-majors would be wise investing some time with Newell.
AJ Casey AJ Casey 6'8" | PF Whitney Young | 2022 State #55 Nation IL (Whitney Young – 2022)
Casey is the top 2022 prospect in the state. Early on we liked what he did from a passing stand point as he set up Newell on multiple occasions for scores on quick dump off dishes in the paint. As the game went on he ran the floor for scores. His most impressive move came on a baseline spin move that was so fluid and easy looking.
Javonte Taylor Javonte Taylor 6'7" | PF Donda Academy | 2023 #41 Nation CA-S (Kenwood – 2023)
Taylor is the best 2023 prospect in the state of Illinois. The Kenwood forward has a long and lanky frame with a high skill level. At the beginning of the game he got loose in transition for several big dunks. Then he took it to the perimeter where he used his shot fake to set up threes. Drilled them from all over with a feathery touch against contested coverage. Five-star talent no doubt!
Davius Loury Davius Loury 6'8" | PF Phhoenix Prep | 2024 State AZ (Kenwood – 2023)
Loury is a power forward that has really improved his all-around game. He is a strong four that has thinned out some which has helped with his versatility. He drilled a pair of threes looking smooth and confident letting it fly. Was more than comfortable putting it on the deck and getting to the hoop where he finished with runners on slashes over and over. His combination of quickness, athleticism, skill, and strength are very impressive.
Donaven Younger Donaven Younger 6'8" | C Bolingbrook | 2023 State IL (Bolingbrook – 2023)
Younger is a high level prospect at the power forward position. He was most effective in this game as a rim protector blocking shots on the defensive end with his long arms and timing. Rebounds both in and out of his area. Had a nice reverse layup for a score.
Mekhi Cooper (Bolimgbrook – 2023)
Cooper is a point guard with shifty ball handling and deep range on his three point shot. The point guard brings toughness, handles, and shot making in the backcourt.
Matas Buzelis Matas Buzelis 6'9" | SF Sunrise Christian | 2023 #2 Nation NLG (Brewster Academy – 2023)
Buzelis was a top in-state prospect before his recent move out east. Highly skilled and athletic small forward that has a feel for the game. Weaves in and out of the defense getting to the rim. Sweet baseline pull up. Ton of upside. Landed an offer from Syracuse over the weekend.