Freshman Contributors: Big School Guards
It’s rare that a freshman is good enough to make a contribution to the varsity team. Whether it’s that they aren’t physically up to the size and speed of the action, or that their skills are not fully developed, most…
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Continue ReadingIt’s rare that a freshman is good enough to make a contribution to the varsity team. Whether it’s that they aren’t physically up to the size and speed of the action, or that their skills are not fully developed, most ninth graders just aren’t able to beat out the older guys for playing time.
Of course there is the rare exception, like T.J. Williams, already an all-state honorable mention performer at Wichita Heights. Williams was a team leader for the Falcons, pitching in 8.3 points and 3.0 boards.
But there are occasionally other ninth graders who are pressed into duty for a depleted team, or who are physically up to the task and are ready to be challenged.
Here are a few 2024 guards who were contributors to their varsity teams last year (alphabetical order):
Kaiden Abasolo, 6-foot guard, 2024, Mulvane:
Not many ninth graders play for top-ranked teams, particularly in the bigger school ranks. But Abasolo was a key contributor for the Wildcats, who were considered one of the top 4A clubs all last year. It’s not fair to expect Kaiden to live up to the standards set by recently graduated brother Trey, but he’s off to a great start. Kaiden averaged 6.2 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists for one of the best teams in 4A.
Robert Basks, 6-foot guard, 2024, Wichita West:
Basks might just be an up-and-coming sharpshooter to watch. As a ninth grader, he poured in 41% of his 3-point attempts. The rookie came on strong, averaging 9.7 points in his last seven games. On the season, he averaged 5.9 points for West.
Kale Staats, 6-foot-1 guard, 2024, Aquinas:
Developing as one of the top young guards in KC, Staats got some great experience as a freshman. Known for his defense on the club circuit, Staats held his own with 3.5 points and 1.2 boards for the Aquinas varsity last year. But it’s his defense that earns him extra playing time.
Tesean Williams, 5-foot-7 guard, 2024, Wichita Northwest:
The quick ball handler got some great minutes as a support to a tough veteran cast at Northwest. Williams produced 5.7 points and 1.7 assists for the Grizzlies. He also contributed nearly one steal per game. He started the season strong, with 12 points in two of his first three games.