2023 Forwards with the Most to Gain this AAU Season
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This AAU period is critical for prospects across the nation as the end of the NCAA dead live period is coming to a close. The opportunity to play in front of D1 coaches will happen in June, meaning players have…
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Continue ReadingThis AAU period is critical for prospects across the nation as the end of the NCAA dead live period is coming to a close. The opportunity to play in front of D1 coaches will happen in June, meaning players have good opportunities to hone their skills before than. This is especially true in 2023 with a lot of forward prospects getting an opportunity to show their skills. Here are the top 2023 forwards with the most to gain this AAU season.
Carson Howard Carson Howard 6'7" | PF Archbishop Wood | 2023 State PA , 6’7 PF Lacey
Howard has been dominant for Lacey over his first two seasons, but this spring period with Team Final is key for him. The 6’7 forward plays with good footwork down low and has a nice touch around the basket. Howard can knock down jumpers in the mid-range and is an underrated ball-handler. He skies for rebounds on both ends of the floor and is a solid post defender. Howard is a talented post prospect whose best basketball is ahead of him.
Jackson Tindall, 6’6 SF St. Peter’s Prep
Tindall is part of a talented NJ Scholars team, but his skillset will allow him to make an impact. The 6’6 wing has a good release on his jumper and does not waste a lot of motion in his shot. Tindall is more than just a shooter as he can also put the ball on the floor and get to the basket. He fights for rebounds on both ends of the floor and has the athleticism to defend multiple positions. Tindall is a two-way prospect who should see his stock rise over the course of the spring and summer.
Darrius Phillips Darrius Phillips 6'7" | PF Seton Hall Prep | 2023 State NJ , 6’7 SF/PF Seton Hall Prep
Phillips is a true combo forward with the ability to play either the three or the four at the next level. The 6’7 forward has a strong frame which he uses to draw contact on his way to the basket. Phillips is more than just a slasher as he is comfortable stepping outside and knocking down perimeter jumpers. He is a strong rebounder and is a solid shot blocker. Phillips’ versatility to either play on the wing or in the post is something that will help his stock this AAU season for the NJ Panthers.
Noah Barnett Noah Barnett 6'8" | PF Don Bosco Prep | 2023 NLG , 6’8 PF Don Bosco Prep
Barnett is on the cusp of shooting up boards and it starts this AAU season with the NY Jayhawks. The 6’8 forward is a big-time athlete who finishes above the rim with authority. Barnett has a nice release on his jumper and has the ability to handle the ball on the perimeter. His motor does not stop on either end and is an underrated rebounder. Barnett is a breakout star waiting to happen as he should take advantage of this AAU season.
Jalen Pichardo Jalen Pichardo 6'6" | SF St. Thomas Aquinas | 2023 State NJ , 6’6 SF East Brunswick
Pichardo had a solid sophomore season for East Brunswick and is primed for a strong AAU circuit with NJ Legacy. The 6’6 forward has a nice touch around the basket and knows how to draw contact. Pichardo has a good release on his jumper and is getting more comfortable playing on the perimeter. He hustles for rebounds on both ends of the floor and works hard on the defensive end. Pichardo is a tough forward prospect who should help his stock in a big way this AAU season.
Other Prospects to Watch:
Charles Ekotto Nelle Charles Ekotto Nelle 6'7" | SF Olympus Prep | 2023 State NJ , 6’6 SF Olympus Prep
Chris Santner Chris Santner 6'10" | PF St. Thomas Aquinas | 2023 State NJ , 6’8 PF Roselle Catholic
Ian Imegwu Ian Imegwu 6'8" | PF Blair Academy | 2023 State NJ , 6’8 PF Blair Academy
Dasear Haskins Dasear Haskins 6'8" | SF Camden | 2023 State NJ , 6’6 SF Camden
Zach Davis, 6’7 SF Ranney School