Breakout Juniors Part 1
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After posting two articles about some potential breakout seniors, it’s not time to turn our attention to some juniors that have the chance to really break out this season. Marlon Barnes Jr. Marlon Barnes Jr. 6'6" | SF Brush |…
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Continue ReadingAfter posting two articles about some potential breakout seniors, it’s not time to turn our attention to some juniors that have the chance to really break out this season.
Marlon Barnes Jr. Marlon Barnes Jr. 6'6" | SF Brush | 2023 State #161 Nation OH , 6’5 SF Brush 2023: Barnes took a year outside of Ohio to play for Ypsi Prep and this is the main reason that he’s on this list. Many Ohio fans know about his talent, but Barnes hasn’t had the opportunity to make a name for himself on the varsity level yet. I expect that to change this season as Brush is projected to be one of the top teams in the state this season.
Darius Stratford Darius Stratford 6'8" | C St. Vincent-St. Mary's | 2023 State OH , 6’9 C STVM 2023: I thought Stratford deserved to play a little more than he did last year, but I expect big things from him as a Junior. Stratford improved his motor and stamina during his Sophomore season and should be expected to take on a starting role this season. With more of an opportunity to play this season, I think Stratford will see his numbers skyrocket as a Junior.
Donovan Hunter Donovan Hunter 6'7" | PF Spire | 2023 State OH , 6’8 PF Westerville Central 2023: Hunter is well known around Ohio as he was a starter on the runner’s up in Division I last season and is already committed at the Division I level, but I think he could break out this season. For starters, Hunter was the fourth or fifth offensive option for the WarHawks last season, but they graduate a ton of senior talent. Hunter will be looked upon to pick up for what walked out the door from last season, giving him the chance to fully unleash his offensive skillset.
Eian Elmer Eian Elmer 6'6" | SF Taft | 2023 State OH , 6’6 PF Taft 2023: Another transfer from an out of state program, Elmer has a chance to be a pivotal role for a team expected to compete for a state title. Elmer is great in transition and Taft will look to push the pace whenever they get a chance. Another thing benefitting Elmer is that he won’t be the primary scorer for Taft, allowing him to cut off ball and take advantage of being guarded by worse defenders.
Nelson Johnson Nelson Johnson 6'6" | PF Lutheran East | 2023 State OH , 6’6 PF Lutheran East 2023: Johnson played the first two years of his high school career at University School but will be headed to Lutheran East as a Junior. A high flyer, Johnson has the potential to put anybody on a poster. I’m hoping Johnson continues to produce for Lutheran East, as their schedule will be loaded with difficult opponents.