PA Class of 2023 Rankings Update: WPIAL Leading Scorers
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Our Prep Hoops Pennsylvania updated rankings for the 2023 class include a tremendous amount of players. With 300 young men on the list, we take an in-depth look at some of the WPIAL leading scorers from this season who are…
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Continue ReadingOur Prep Hoops Pennsylvania updated rankings for the 2023 class include a tremendous amount of players. With 300 young men on the list, we take an in-depth look at some of the WPIAL leading scorers from this season who are highly ranked in our state. These super six performers “lit up” the scoreboard during high school games and continue to “fill up” the stat sheet in the AAU campaign.
Vinnie Cugini Vinnie Cugini 6'2" | PG Aquinas Academy | 2023 State PA – 6’2 combo guard – Aquinas Academy High School – Mason Elite (AAU)
During the high school season, this prolific scorer led the WPIAL in scoring average (nearly an amazing 40 points per game) from beginning to end. With his team playing up-tempo, this young gun is able to score in bunches in transition or quick half-court sets. Now that Vinnie has added some strength to his lanky body, his ability to get to the rim has improved tremendously. His arsenal includes many other different ways to put up points during a game, which creates difficulties for the defense. Also, during the AAU season with Mason Elite, Vinnie has taken advantage of more opportunities to showcase his talent.
Damon Astorino Damon Astorino 6'2" | CG Eden Christian Academy | 2023 State PA – 6’2 combo guard – Ambridge High School – Urban Impact 2023 (AAU)
This high-level scorer played in one of the toughest sections in the state of Pennsylvania, while still amassing well over 20 points per game. A strong, physical combo guard that likes contact when penetrating the lane for finishes at the basket, which gives him opportunities to build on the 90% free-throw shooting with “and 1’s.” Damon can play a variety of positions on the floor that make him extremely difficult to guard due to match-up problems. Also, he rebounds very well on both the offensive and defensive ends of the court. Damon plays with the improving Urban Impact program on the AAU scene to continue developing his skill set.
Matt Stanley Matt Stanley 6'0" | PG Union Area | 2023 State PA – 6’0 point guard – Union High School
He has a high basketball IQ and is a proven leader on the court. This season he averaged over 20 points per game and was able to not only score buckets for himself but facilitate the ball to his teammates. Matt’s quickness on the defensive end of the floor creates transition baskets on the offensive end from steals and deflections. His long-distance shooting provides opportunities that open up the offense for his team to score in a multitude of ways during a game. Lastly, Matt wants the ball in his hands at the end of a contest when the game is on the line.
Rodney Gallagher Rodney Gallagher 6'0" | CG Laurel Highlands | 2023 State #176 Nation PA – 6’0 combo guard – Laurel Highlands High School – Team Durant EYBL (AAU)
The top-ranked player in the class of 2023 in Pennsylvania already holds many division 1 offers in basketball and football. While being a highly regarded two-sport athlete, he still continues to develop his game with one of the premier AAU programs in the country, Team Durant. His ability to lead his team with scoring, passing, defense and leadership help us understand exactly why he is sought after by D1 institutions. Rodney is a smooth performer that brings confidence to each game and continues to “light up” the scoreboard this summer with his high school and AAU teams. He averaged close to 20 points per game this winter.
Jimmy Kunst Jimmy Kunst 6'2" | CG Highlands | 2023 State PA – 6’2 combo guard – Highlands High School – Team Wildcat (AAU)
An above-average player with the credentials to not only put up points in a hurry but to create opportunities for his teammates with his excellent knowledge of game situations. As a freshman, he was a starter on a WPIAL championship team, which prepared him for the next step in the development of his skills. Jimmy can handle the ball, drive to the basket, and knockdown perimeter jumpers on a consistent basis. The toughness he exudes causes havoc on the defensive end of the court as well. Jimmy averaged close to 20 points per game this high school season and plays for talented Team Wildcat on the AAU circuit.
Dante DePante Dante DePante 6'3" | PG Central Catholic | 2023 State PA – 6’1 shooting guard – Central Catholic High School – Mason Elite (AAU)
A talented, skilled shooter that can score from deep range with an extremely quick release on his shot. He looks to come off screens on the perimeter but is deadly with floaters in the lane. Dante has a high IQ and passes well in transition, which makes him a very difficult player to defend during a game. When he gets “hot” it is nearly impossible to stop him on the floor. Also, Dante has improved on the defensive end of the floor. This young man averaged around 20 points per game this winter and continues his torrid scoring with his AAU team, Mason Elite.
Only being rising juniors, these players continue to work hard at developing their game, while loading up on the points in a variety of ways. If you get a chance this summer and next winter check them out and I guarantee you will not be disappointed.