Big Shoes to Fill: 3A
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Some special players have departed the 3A level. Teams across the state are figuring out how to overcoming graduations. But in the following cases, there are talented players ready to take on bigger roles in the absence of a 3A…
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Continue ReadingSome special players have departed the 3A level. Teams across the state are figuring out how to overcoming graduations.
But in the following cases, there are talented players ready to take on bigger roles in the absence of a 3A all-state graduate:
Jimmy Dorsey graduated, taking 22 points and 8 boards with him. His younger brother Willie (pictured) is not the same player, but has a lot of attributes that make him a good candidate to take a big step forward next year. Willie is a slasher who can score at all three levels. He put up 12 points per game as a sophomore. His accuracy from deep and ability to finish on the move will likely see that number go up considerably.
Nolan Juenemann was a 6-foot-7 beast in the paint for the Blue Jays. He put up 14 points and 7 boards as a senior. Hauser will pick up some of the role Jueneman played next season. Hauser is an excellent passer for a big man. He averaged 6.5 assists as a sophomore. He will see his scoring and rebounding increase.
Highlights
Trace Kopper
Trace Kopper
Braxton Harrison was the Bluejays leader with 18 points per game as a senior. But Kopper was in the lineup as a ninth grader, creating havoc at the defensive end and gaining a ton of valuable experience. He averaged 6 points and nearly 3 assists per game. He will take over the reins and will produce a lot more next season after testing himself with Western Kansas Elite this summer.
Cason Richardson is the big name to replace in Hesston, but Proctor has already established himself as the top returner. When Richardson recouped from injury, the group took up the slack. By the end of the season, Proctor was an all-state performer in his own right. He averaged 15 points per game during the season, then put in 33 points in a three-game sweep of the state tournament. He looks to be one of the biggest stars in 3A this season.
Jalen Smith
Jalen Smith
Landon Watkins was an honorable mention pick in the 3A classification. Watch for Smith to step into the void. He is a big forward who plays with soft hands and good ball skills. He floats on the perimeter in the half-court offense and runs to spots in transition to find 3-point attempts. He has a smooth, high release that hits a high percentage.