OK State 2022: Upside Athletes
This past weekend brought players from all over Oklahoma and neighboring states to Solid Rock in Edmond for the 17U Division of the 2022 Oklahoma State Tournament. Here’s a closer look at a group of players that stood out for…
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Continue ReadingThis past weekend brought players from all over Oklahoma and neighboring states to Solid Rock in Edmond for the 17U Division of the 2022 Oklahoma State Tournament. Here’s a closer look at a group of players that stood out for their raw athletic ability or intriguing skillsets for their size.
Darien Luke, 6’3 Wing, Black Diamond Basketball
A long bouncy wing, Luke made his impact on both ends of the court. On offense he’s able to play above the rim with his explosiveness and big wingspan. While on defense those same traits allow him to be an eraser, as evident when he recorded recovery blocks. Athleticism is always nice, but basketball is more than just a game based on athleticism. The Westmoore wing’s shooting form is a little unorthodox. Which led to one bad miss from beyond the arc, but when his feet were set and open in the corner he was able to nail a couple three pointers in a Saturday game.
Julius King, 6’3 Wing, Wichita Magic
When watching King on Saturday he looked like a good athlete. Warranting a note about some athletic upside. On Sunday he proved he was more than a good athlete, he’s a great athlete. The athletic Kansas was playing above the rim, especially with explosive slams and alley oops.
Caleb Crosby, 6’7 Forward, 405 Badboyz
An unsigned senior, it’s clearly not for a lack of athletic ability, size or raw upside that has Crosby still on the market. Not only is he blessed with next level height, he has the quickness and leaping ability to match it. On defense when switched onto smaller guards Crosby has the lateral movement required to not only stay in front of them he’s able to use his size advantage to smoother guards. Add in his high flying finishing at the rim and Crosby is the type of player who’s high potential immediately leaps off the page.
Marcus Pierce, 6’5 Wing, Wichita Magic
Unlike his teammate on the list, Pierce didn’t stand out with eye popping athleticism on dunks. It’s more for the fact that at 6 foot 5 (or possibly taller) he has the body control and skill level to be a be a big guard. He plays good defense for his size on the perimeter and had flashes of good vision and overall playmaking ability. One of his more memorable offensive contributions was a strong and quick spin on a drive.