2024 Multi-Positional Defenders at the Top 250 Expo
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Owen Alleman Owen Alleman 6'10" | C Thomas Jefferson | 2024 State CO – Thomas Jefferson – 2024 Alleman came up big at this event both physically and on the box score. At 6’9, the forward may be skinny however…
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Continue ReadingOwen Alleman Owen Alleman 6'10" | C Thomas Jefferson | 2024 State CO – Thomas Jefferson – 2024
Alleman came up big at this event both physically and on the box score. At 6’9, the forward may be skinny however he has continued to improve his athleticism throughout the summer, notably through an increased volume of dunks. Given his exceptional reach and budding footwork, the incoming junior is already capable matching up 2-4 while showing flashes against smaller guards and some stronger forwards. Throughout the event, Alleman put up anywhere from four to seven blocks a game, both on the interior and perimeter. On the offensive end, Alleman still has plenty of room to grow as a versatile weapon. Within the halfcourt, he showed poise attacking baseline off of backdoor cuts and continued to get more comfortable using hook shots in the low post. Given his high center of gravity, maximizing his perimeter skillset through spot-up shooting and aggression attacking closeouts will be necessary for his two-way success at the next level. Alleman comes in ranking 102nd in the 2024 class and 10th among centers.
Realiti Smith – Coronado – 2024
Coming from Colorado Springs, Smith made a major impact with his motor and ability to match up with three positions on defense. At roughly 6’4, Smith possesses substantial reach, allowing him to deflect mid-air passes with ease. One on one, the wing possesses the strength to take hits while using his length to suffocate the opponent, should they pick up their dribble. Smith proved to be an excellent system player who was advantageous cutting through open lanes, where he showed no fear finishing through contact. The incoming junior currently ranks 76th in the class and 16th among power forwards. Continuing to get more comfortable with the jump shot will be key to his offensive upside.
Cass Henry – Arapahoe – 2024
The 6’6 forward is proving to be especially mobile on both ends after slimming down this summer. Henry brings a unique blend of size, strength, and ballhandling equity that is just too much to handle when he’s aggressive getting downhill. With his improved lateral mobility, Henry has been especially effective as a help side disruptor and instigator within the passing lanes. Henry currently sits as the fourth overall prospect within the 2024 class and 2nd among power forwards. Continuing to leverage his playmaking upside will be something to keep an eye this high school season.
Carson Mcdonald – Vista Peak – 2024
McDonald brings upside as a two-way forward who has steadily improved as a knockdown shooter. At roughly 6’8, McDonald is mobile on the break, typically one of the first down the floor going either way. He is capable getting up to the rim, where he can catch lobs or throw it down on his own accord. When committed, McDonald is capable guarding three positions, with room to grow against opposing centers. A couple areas of intrigue revolve around his confidence playmaking off of closeouts and his progression as a defender on the perimeter. McDonald sits as the second overall player in the 2024 class and top power forward. The junior recently transferred to Vista Peak, get ready to see him dominate at the JV level there.