Top Freshmen and Sophomores from Putnam City Invitational
The Putnam City Invitational at Putnam City High School included a lot of potential college talent. From a go-ahead three to an and-one to take the lead and win by one, young players shined for their squads throughout the tournament.…
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Continue ReadingThe Putnam City Invitational at Putnam City High School included a lot of potential college talent. From a go-ahead three to an and-one to take the lead and win by one, young players shined for their squads throughout the tournament.
Here are a few of the most notable freshmen and sophomores from Jan. 6 to 8 in the PCI.
Carlsheon Young, Freshman, 6’4 Guard, Putnam City West
Young, out of Putnam City West, is exemplary for a freshman. With nerves of steel, Young converted a tough and-one in the clutch to secure the victory by a point over Muskogee in round one of the PCI. Young’s ability to handle the ball well along with his size aid him in being a great shot-creator. It is clear that Young is one of the best player’s on the court against whoever the opposition is based solely on the flow of his game. Young plays at his own pace, picks his spots and hits his jumpers. A 17-point performance for a team-high in the second round saw PCW fall short of a championship bid. For Young to lead his team in a defeat shows maturity and composure. Playing older than he is, the young guard clearly has a high ceiling and will certainly garner attention by some Power Five colleges come his senior season.
Jordan Warrior Jordan Warrior 6'0" | CG Putnam City West | 2024 State OK , Sophomore, 6’0 Guard, Putnam City West
Warrior is a defensive cornerstone for the Putnam City West Patriots. With a high motor and hustling attributes, Warrior has the perfect recipe for a scrappy guard. Picking pockets, drawing charges and diving for loose balls displays a unique talent in Warrior. Not only that, but the sophomore can also hit a three when open. Warrior is cemented as a lockdown defender in my eyes. It is essential for a basketball team to have a player of his defensive caliber. Colleges should keep an eye on this guard.
Isaac Williams, Sophomore, 6’0 Guard, Putnam City
William’s performance in the first and second rounds of the PCI showed glimpses of college talent for the PCO Pirate. Williams separated himself in the first game of the tournament, leading his team to a 56-49 victory over the 13-5 Hirschi Huskies (Wichita Falls, Texas). Scoring 15 points in the win, Williams did not shy away from contact, converting many tough contact layups including an and-one layup in the first quarter. With a big frame for a 6’0 guard as a sophomore, Williams is a prospect to look at as he has good ball-handling skills and can get a bucket when needed. Williams is able to drive by you and finish among the trees, or he can pull-up for a jumper at the elbow.
Bryson Buckingham, Sophomore, 6’0 Guard, Edmond North
Buckingham’s contribution as a role player helped propel Edmond North to winning the championship in the PCI. A smooth jumper, Buckingham’s form is impeccable and generally accurate from 3-point range. Draining a three in the championship game, the sophomore feels the pressure and can embrace it, which is a great sign from a young player. Along with his shooting ability, Buckingham keeps the ball on a string. In the second quarter of the championship, Buckingham ran to a loose ball and spun to maneuver around a defender, rose up against a taller defender and extended his arm out to flip the ball up and in. Buckingham will be one to watch this season as his shot is enjoyable to see.
Dylan Warlick Dylan Warlick 6'6" | SF Edmond North | 2024 State #226 Nation OK , Sophomore, 6’4 Forward, Edmond North
Warlick did more than impress in this tournament as the 6’4 forward led his team to a title game victory. Eloquent footwork in the post, Warlick scored the ball with ease. The unanimous MVP of the tournament is a Swiss army knife. Running transition, sinking jumpers, working in the post and assisting his teammates showed Warlick is a very special talent. As a sophomore, scoring 22-points in the championship game of a tournament is no usual feat. For a 6’4 forward, he is quick on his feet and with the ball. It should be recognized that Warlick will continue to grow into a greater player through his next two and a half years at Edmond North, and he is already performing like a star. Warlick will be turning heads in any game that he competes in this season and beyond.