Kansas Juniors Stepping Up Across the State – Wings/Bigs
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The spring season gives juniors a jump start to preparation for their final season. Summer tournaments and showcases will give them a chance to show off their talents, and hone their skills for their moment in the spotlight. Outside the…
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Continue ReadingThe spring season gives juniors a jump start to preparation for their final season. Summer tournaments and showcases will give them a chance to show off their talents, and hone their skills for their moment in the spotlight.
Outside the population centers of Kansas City, Wichita and Topeka, some juniors have made big names for themselves. Louisburg’s Julian Margrave Julian Margrave 6'9" | SF Louisberg | 2022 KS , Abilene’s Kaleb Becker Kaleb Becker 6'4" | SF Abilene | 2022 State KS , and Hays’ Jace Linenberger Jace Linenberger 6'7" | C Hays | 2022 State KS are big men who have established themselves with all-state seasons.
But there are several other juniors across the state hitting the hardwood this summer who are ready to leave their marks. Here are some of the top junior wings and bigs across Kansas looking to step into the spotlight (in alphabetical order):
Nathan Adams, 6-foot-2 forward, Western Kansas Elite, Pratt-Skyline HS:
Adams was a revelation at the Midwest Grind Session in early May. He demonstrated some talent that stood out on the big stage. He hit shots from deep and was equally effective in the lane. He’s not purely a post up threat. He can put the ball on the floor, pull up for jumpers, and create opportunities for himself in transition. He’s a powerful athlete who runs and moves well.
Jaden Boone Jaden Boone 6'3" | SG Quinter | 2022 State KS , 6-foot-3 forward, Team Buddy Buckets, Quinter HS:
Boone has a well-rounded game that allows him to be effective in the open court and in the lane. He has good power in traffic and can score in the post and on follows. But he is athletic enough to defend on the perimeter. He’s a good ball handler who can push it end to end.
Dameion Hattan, 6-foot-3 forward, Team Buddy Buckets, Sedan HS:
Another small-school star on Team Buddy Buckets is Hattan. The Sedan junior is powerfully built but is a smooth athlete. He excels at running the court and using his height and strength to overpower guards on the move. Hattan is tough and gritty. He gets after at the defensive end and throws his body after loose balls.
Jake Underwood, 6-foot-4 post, Western Kansas Elite, Garden City HS:
Underwood is a rugged and powerful post player who is team-first. He works hard to impact the game on defense, on screens and on the glass. He excels at rebounding in traffic and getting the ball out to guards. He’s athletic enough to make an impact in all phases.
Caleb Wiese Caleb Wiese 6'4" | SF Garden City | 2023 State KS , 6-foot-4 forward, Western Kansas Elite, Garden City HS:
Wiese is a coach’s favorite – a guy without an ego who does all the little things. He’s a 2023 who is playing up this summer, and physically he fits right in. Wiese is a powerful forward who combines size and athleticism. He has good moves in the post and versatility, but he doesn’t demand the ball to make an impact. He chases plays, thwarts shots in the lane, and rebounds.