Recruiting Report: Colby Kyle (2018)
In basketball, a stretch four (sometimes called combo forward or stretch big) is a player who plays in the power forward position. “Stretch” describes the effect such a player has on the opposition defense, and the power forward position is also known…
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Continue ReadingIn basketball, a stretch four (sometimes called combo forward or stretch big) is a player who plays in the power forward position. “Stretch” describes the effect such a player has on the opposition defense, and the power forward position is also known as the “four position”; hence “stretch four”. The stretch four is a fairly recent innovation in the NBA (with an “explosion” of players coming through since the 1999-2000 season), but is still becoming increasingly common in today’s game, as many NBA coaches now use the “small-ball” line-up/tactical play.
Stretch fours are tactically employed in this way to “stretch” the opponent’s defense. The ability to score a high percentage of catch-and-shoot three-point shots from distance (the distinct feature of a stretch four) causes defensive problems for the opposing team, as it pulls the opposing (and crucially, defending) power forward out of the low post area, opening up driving lanes for guards to exploit (these can be running lanes or passing lanes). This also creates more post space and potentially scoring and rebounding opportunities for the center player.
At 6-7, 2018 Monroe prospect forward Colby Kyle loves to play defense, specifically block his opponents.
Kyle isn’t only a shot blocker, he has an overall game that stands out. He describes himself as a versatile player, defensively and offensively.
Kyle has a knack for hitting short jumpers, but can also step out to shoot a three if he needs to. Another aspect of his game that he prides himself on is rebounding, which at 6-7 and long arms comes easily.
Kyle plans to play in college and has heard from multiple different colleges including; Seattle University, Seattle Pacific University, Eastern Washington University, University of Incarnate Word and University of Montana.