2024 3 And D Standouts
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Floor spacing is an essential part of today’s game, especially for off-ball players. When a player can consistently knock down threes to stretch the floor, and guard at a high level on the defensive end, they make it extremely difficult…
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Continue ReadingFloor spacing is an essential part of today’s game, especially for off-ball players. When a player can consistently knock down threes to stretch the floor, and guard at a high level on the defensive end, they make it extremely difficult to take them off the court. Let’s discuss a few of those players who have made big impacts on both ends this summer.
Jaden Jackson Jaden Jackson 6'1" | SG Bellevue West | 2024 State #312 Nation NE | Bellevue West
Jackson is one of the best spot-up shooters in the state, and an equally skilled defender. At the point of attack, his defensive skills remind me a lot of 2022 Westside point guard Chandler Meeks Chandler Meeks 6'1" | CG Omaha Westside | 2022 State NE . He is physical without fouling, and he moves very well in all directions. A driver can have a step or two on Jackson, and in the blink of an eye that space is erased and Jackson is back in front of his man.
Jake Hilkemann Jake Hilkemann 6'4" | SF Lincoln Southeast | 2024 State NE | Lincoln North Star
This summer has been my first look at Hilkemann, and I have been impressed with his consistency from game to game. It seems he is always creating a positive impact for Nebraska Supreme UAA with his excellent off-ball defense and serviceable point of attack defense. He is very capable as a spot-up shooter and his attempts rarely ever feel forced or out of the flow of the offense.
Treyson Anderson | Pius X
Treyson is still getting a feel for moving around in his frame, but the potential is clear. On defense he is usually in the right places, and has proven he can anticipate actions and react accordingly. I feel a little guilty labeling him a 3 and D player because he is a skilled scorer inside, too, but his shooting at 6’7″ has really stood out this summer.
Camden Monie | Millard North
I see a lot of potential in the younger Monie brother. His help defense stands out the most, because he is constantly scanning the floor for defensive gaps to fill in. He moves well horizontally when containing drives, but can also body up in the post and defend without fouling. Right now, he is a good shooter, not a great one, but I don’t see anything to suggest he won’t improve with more repetition.
Mynor Strong | Omaha North
Mynor has work to do in terms of defending the point of attack, but he has shown an ability to read the floor and make defensive plays off the ball. He is disruptive in the passing lanes, and will sneak in from the weakside to swat a shot every now and then. As a scorer, he has a smooth jumper from all areas on the court, and can really heat up from the three-point line. He is another player who has elevated his ceiling as a shooter because of his ball-handling ability.