Havoc in the Heartland Top Defensive Performances
I round out my coverage from the Havoc in the Heartland with notes on some of the better defensive players in the event. One common theme with all 4 names below is they have the mechanics in terms of defending…
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Continue ReadingI round out my coverage from the Havoc in the Heartland with notes on some of the better defensive players in the event. One common theme with all 4 names below is they have the mechanics in terms of defending their own position. While not everyone has the shot blocking skills on this list, all 4 showed they could actively shut down an opponent on the defensive end. Take a look and see who stepped up.
Landen Johnston (2021) Sport-Prep Nothing But Athletes Inc.
Johnston was one of the few 2021s I saw in Indianapolis but he was impactful in their game against Chicago Lockdown. Plays straight up, fundamental defense-focused more on moving laterally than using his hands. Only 6’1 but showed he could contest shots at the rim. Really good feel for the game and awareness of where he needs to be defensively. Surely impressed college coaches looking to add a guard in this upcoming class.
Emondrek Erkins (2022) Y&R 16U
Erkins was an animal against Team Flyght and their athleticism. Standing 6’8 with a wirey frame, Erkins has incredible length and a long wingspan to cover plenty of area. His shot blocking was what really impressed me early on as he used his length and leaping abilities to easily swat shots like Mutambo. Showed he could defend on the perimeter and moved well for a 6’8 player. Combine this with his offensive game and I see Erkins as a D2 target at the moment if not higher.
Tyler Smith Tyler Smith 6'0" | SG Kenwood | 2023 State IL (2023) Y&R 16U
While his teammate Emondrek Erkins protected the rim, Smith was a menace on the perimeter. Created turnovers with his speed as guys simply could not get by him. Reads the passing lanes and has good hands. Disruptive at times with his active hands. Not the biggest player as he comes in at 6’0, but Smith has potential and I see him as a scholarship player.
Jaylane Drane (2022) Mac Irvin Fire 17U
Drane had a chance to show how good of a defensive guy he is against a good EG10 program. Incredible speed when moving side-to-side. Intriguing at 6’4 as he can guard some smaller wings as well as either guard positions. Footwork was some of the best I saw throughout the weekend. I will need to see more of what he can do on the offensive end to see what level I expect, but Drane has the defensive work to be playing in college next year.