Grit Region Finals: Saturday Superlatives
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The 2024 (and 2025) class continued to show out at the Grit Region Finals in Indianapolis. Here are five totally arbitrary skill superlative categories with an additional honorable mention. Best Prospect Jalen Haralson 6-5 2025 Indianapolis Gets the nod here for…
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Continue ReadingThe 2024 (and 2025) class continued to show out at the Grit Region Finals in Indianapolis. Here are five totally arbitrary skill superlative categories with an additional honorable mention.
Best Prospect
Jalen Haralson 6-5 2025 Indianapolis Gets the nod here for the simple fact that as one of the few 2025’s playing up a age group. He also looks like possibly the most physically advanced. I find it interesting that he lists himself as a point guard. His game reminds me of another tall player who raised eyebrows by claiming that position. Like recent draftee Scottie Barnes he covers so much ground with his long frame. Most players with this extreme length are very skinny. That is not the case here. Thick but bouncy frame appears to be a step ahead of his opponents. Not just an athlete either. Skilled ball handler and passer who also possesses a soft touch. I only saw it out to the mid range in Saturday’s action. Seems to have winning intangibles as well as Team Teague 2025 is undefeated. Has the chance to be a special long term prospect.
Honorable Mention: Nate Johnson 6-4 Grand Rapids Christian (MI)
Best Athlete
Ru Mills 6-2 2024 Cincinnati Woodward (pictured at top of article) A repeat appearance from Friday night. But his high flying act leaves me little choice. Continued to keep the gym buzzing with his his above the rim finishes. It’s not all highlights though. Production is there as well. Scored 27 points in a close victory over a good Breakaway squad (see below) Could possibly be matching up with the top guy on this list for a title. As his Cincinnati Royals squad remains undefeated.
Honorable Mention: Have to go with teammate Jay’Quan Bostic 6-2 Cincinnati Woodward
Best Post
Jake Riemer 6-6 Downers Grove North (IL) An old school back to the basket post who had a big Saturday. Came through big in the clutch in a close victory over Chicago Demons. Only has 11 points but they were timely. Also had a big block near the end. In a losing effort against the aforementioned Cincinnati Royals did his best to exploit their smaller frontline. Nice wide frame that you don’t often see at this age. Doesn’t really need to gain or add any weight. Just needs to improve the overall skill level
Honorable Mention: Reimer’s Chicago Demon opponent Jaylan McElroy 6-5 DePaul Prep (IL)
Best Handle
Dekwon Brown Dekwon Brown 6'4" | PG Simeon | 2024 #273 Nation IL 6-1 Limestone Community (IL) This guard first caught my attention at the Chicago Summer Challenge playing with Illinois Hoopstars. Now playing with an Indiana based team continued to play at a high level. I was impressed with his acceleration and the ability to stop and start on a dime. Also balances having control with a high level speed both laterally and up and down the court. Despite the ball on strong abilities is not a true point guard. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. Ball handling allows him to score and get to the basket with ease. Posted an efficient 29 points in a victory. Team also remains undefeated.
Best Shooter
Shane Rykse 6-2 2024 Schoolcraft (MI) Like Brown and Mills another repeat appearance. But once again his play leaves little choice. Posted 28 points in a dramatic come from behind victory over Indiana Game. I’ve addressed his long range prowess before. But in this contest he showed a mid range floater. This was especially lethal as teams have begun to run him off the line. The outburst also came on the heels of a off shooting first half. Showing the toughness and confidence to work through minor slumps. Also showed a bit of clutch gene by sealing the victory at the line.
Honorable Mention: Nathan Searce 6-1 Bartlett (IL)