Show Me Showdown: Gamechanging Wings
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Darius Chestnut Darius Chestnut 6'2" | SG Sun Prairie West | 2023 State WI – E2E Elite – Sun Prairie – 2023
Chestnut was the perfect glue guy with E2E, given his ability to make a big impact with minimal usage at 6’3. He was more than capable guarding a myriad of positions one on one or coming to the rescue through alert help defense. Two way athlete comes to mind with Chestnut, as he can get downhill quick with a cross or in and out move. Coaches should take a look at Chestnut, as he makes winning plays with or without the rock.
Cole Peppenhorst Cole Peppenhorst 6'4" | PF Breese Mater Dei | 2023 State IL – Midwest All-Stars – Mater Dei – 2023
Standing 6’4, Peppenhorst has some legitimate hops especially in transition while proving to be a legitimate half-court threat. Peppenhorst is not a strict vertical athlete, showing his scoring versatility by attacking closeouts or hitting threes off the catch. The wing was especially confident attacking with the right hand, where he was more than capable getting to the rim. When combining the vertical pop and aggression, Peppenhorst is a natural at drawing fouls. Division two and three programs should keep an eye out for the young wing, who is also a three sport athlete.
Louis Bailey – Peoria Pride – Manual – 2023
Bailey has an unassuming skillset at 6’4, roughly 300 pounds according to Maxpreps.com. The lefty sharpshooter was a consistent pick and pop or corner shooter specialist, all while doubling down as one of most intimidating screen setters this weekend. Continuing to improve lateral agility will be essential if he has to defend more forwards and wings at a collegiate level.
Kewone Jones Kewone Jones 6'2" | SF Waterloo East | 2023 State IA – Waterloo Salvation – Waterloo East – 2023
At 6’2 roughly 200 pounds, Jones is a versatile offensive weapon due to his excellent touch and positional strength. Given his confidence and strength, Jones was more than capable lobbing pin point skip passes across the halfcourt. Jones was capable hitting threes both off the catch and dribble, with a slow but fairly high release. Given his natural touch, the biggest swing skills will be improving his lateral quickness and handle with the left hand.
Brandenn Robinson – Big Time – Springfield – 2023
Robinson was one of the more alarming athletes this tournament due to his quickness, lean strength, and competitive attitude. Rebounding was the biggest key for Robinson where he consistently boxed out and used his burst to leap above opponents. At 6’5, his quick leap was especially noticeable, as not many guys have his vertical quickness. Shot blocking is another strength, where he averaged 3-4 per game with either hand. Continuing to emphasize his perimeter jump shot and driving on closeouts should aid him at the next level, as he has all the athleticism to garner interest.
Cinco Gary – Major League – Guilford – 2024
The lone 2024 name on this list, at 6’3, Gary was an aggressive rebounder who showed no fear contesting shots around the rim. While only a sophomore, Gary is built like a truck, possessing long arms he can guard a myriad of positions as is. He proved on both ends that he wants the ball off the glass, energy alone displayed his commitment. Gary also flashed some passing chops out of the mid post and short roll, a big deal if he makes it consistent throughout the summer. Continuing to improve his offensive skillset either as a jump shooter or driver will be essential to his long term development.