Grit SZN Kick Off Top 16U Guards
The opening day of Grit SZN saw a lot of talented guard play at the 16 U level, which is where I’m specializing this weekend. In this article we’re going to be breaking down the top guards from day 1.…
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Continue ReadingThe opening day of Grit SZN saw a lot of talented guard play at the 16 U level, which is where I’m specializing this weekend. In this article we’re going to be breaking down the top guards from day 1.
Javier Ward Javier Ward 5'11" | CG Holy Cross | 2023 State KY , 5’8 PG 2023 Holy Cross (KY) Kentucky Defenders 2023: Ward is small in size, but came up big throughout the evening for Kentucky Defenders. Ward hit a couple shots from the parking lot, showing off his range. I was also impressed with how Ward found open teammates when the defense collapsed on him.
Nas McNeal, 6’2 PG 2023 Park Heritage (IN) Grand Park Premier: shot the ball with confidence in transition. Not afraid to step into a 3-pointer. Nice anticipation on defense that led to steals. Plays with a little spark in the pick and roll when looking for teammates. Was the most impressive guard I watched today.
Max Murphy, 6’2 SG 2023 Brebeuf Jesuit Prep (IN) Grant Park Premier: deadeye shooter. Used the pump fake to get a defender to fly past him. Nice relocation after a drive to find space to launch a 3. And-1 layup as well. Was pretty consistent when driving to the paint in scoring the ball.
Aaron Gant, 6’0 PG 2023 Joliet West (IL) Illinois Wolves: Wolves hit a bunch of 3-pointers against the zone, but Gant also provided nice defensive pressure to go along with his outside shotmaking ability. They were down double digits for most of the first half but cut the deficit to one possession near the end of the game.
Ayden Barnett, Magoffin County (KY) 6’1 SG 2023 Griffin Elite 2023 Hardewig: efficient scoring performance. Got some easy buckets in transition and made outside shots in the half court. Good athlete, was throwing down self alley-oops during halftime.
Kanye Moreland Kanye Moreland 5'11" | CG Cincinnati Woodward | 2023 State OH , 6’1 PG 2023 Woodward (OH) Cincy Fire Elite: Moreland was efficient because he routinely took the ball to the basket and got layups. While a lot of guards were settling for jumpers or taking wild shot attempts, I thought Moreland got a bunch of easy looks at the rim. Very efficient outing from the field.