SEC Independence Players To Watch
The focus shifts from Bergen County to Essex County, another area of the state that is overflowing with quality. Today we look at some of the top returning players in the Independence division, which is comprised of some of the…
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Continue ReadingThe focus shifts from Bergen County to Essex County, another area of the state that is overflowing with quality. Today we look at some of the top returning players in the Independence division, which is comprised of some of the smaller schools in Essex County. As the week goes on we’ll work our way to the big school division where certain teams may get their own summer watch lists.
Brendan Oliver Brendan Oliver 6'6" | SG Blair Academy | 2025 State NJ | 6’6” | G | Newark Academy 2025
Oliver has a top tier skillset at a young age. He’s got a long frame and attacks the basket strong. He has elite athleticism and can get above the rim. Mid-range game is advanced for a young player. He went over 20 on seven occasions as a freshman. He holds D1 offers already there will be far more interest to come. Plays AAU with the NJ Scholars.
Joe Ganton | 6’4” | G | West Essex 2023
Strong guard who attacks the basket aggressively and can finish with either hand through contact. Ganton also has good ball handling skills and can hit it from deep. Great court vision and a high basketball IQ. Double digit scorer in all but two contests as a junior and went for 20+ in 6 of his last 10 games. Season high of 26 vs Belleville. D3s throughout the Northeast should be interested. Plays AAU for United NJ.
Deon Mingo Jr | 6’1” | G | Newark Academy 2023
Quick and lean guard with a good first step. A confident shooter with a quick release. He’s a threat from beyond the arc and proved his capabilities against a higher level when he scored 20 against Hudson Catholic in the state tournament, with several three pointers coming on highly contested shots. Nice mid range game and a high motor. He’d be a good fit at a guard-oriented D3 program that likes to get looks for shooters.
Other Independence Division Players To Watch
Ja’Quis Davis and Najee Graham, Newark Collegiate 2024