Players to Watch – Topeka Bigs
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There are always players who haven’t made varsity impact who stand out in the summer. These players bear watching to see if they can translate their summer growth to a role at their high school. Here are some Topeka bigs…
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Continue ReadingThere are always players who haven’t made varsity impact who stand out in the summer. These players bear watching to see if they can translate their summer growth to a role at their high school.
Here are some Topeka bigs to watch as we transition to school ball:
Ketralius Aldridge, 6-foot-4 forward, 2023, Highland Park:
No Topekan was more impressive this summer than Aldridge. He has the combination of athleticism and length to be very productive on the varsity level. He has a nice handle and ability to beat a defender on the perimeter that is special for someone his size. He explodes to the goal and finishes with authority. The Scots will need replacement parts this fall, and Aldridge has demonstrated great potential this summer.
Xavier Alexander, 6-foot forward, 2023, Topeka West:
Alexander isn’t a big forward, but he plays a wing position and hits the glass hard, so he fits in this category. He got some good experience as a sub for the Chargers last year, wich is impressive when you consider they finished one step away from the 5A state title. Watch for Alexander to get a much bigger role this year.
Tyson Baumgardner, 6-foot-2 forward, 2025, Washburn Rural:
Would the Junior Blues give significant minutes to a freshman this year? Well they did two years ago with Jack Bachelor Jack Bachelor 6'0" | CG Washburn Rural | 2023 State KS , and Baumarder played up this summer to prepare for the opportunity. He’s a long, lanky forward with the athleticism to play up. He’s an active defender and long presence for his age.
Wyatt Conklin Wyatt Conklin 6'2" | SF Washburn Rural | 2023 State KS , 6-foot-2 forward, 2023, Washburn Rural (pictured):
Probably the most anticipated JV player in the city, Conklin has been on the Prep Hoops radar for more than a year now. He had to wait his turn behind a bunch of high-quality seniors this year, but should be ready for a big increase in minutes this fall. He’s a strong driver, top-notch shooter and a heady ball handler with the physical development to step right in.
Mason Gomez Mason Gomez 6'3" | SG Topeka | 2023 KS , 6-foot-2 forward, 2023, Topeka West:
Nobody shot it better than Gomez this summer. He was lights out at a lot of tournaments, shooting it on the move, off the dribble, and particularly on the spot-up catch-and-shoot. He has a solid build and good length to do more than just shoot too. Depending on what the Chargers need to fill holes this fall, Gomez may be a big riser on the Topeka high school scene.
Ty Gossard, 6-foot-3 forward, 2024, Cair Paravel:
The Lions come back loaded for another season. But they trusted Gossard enough to give him some important minutes as a freshman. So he may be called upon for a bigger role this year, particularly if he developed his physique. His length and ability to move and run the floor could make him a key piece for what might be a top 1A team this year.