Grand Rapids Union Preseason Scrimmage: TOP “BIGS”
Last Tuesday, Grand Rapids Union High School once again played host to its annual preseason scrimmages. The event was definitely a success and gave us a taste of teams and matchups that we can’t wait to see in their full glory this winter! It also allowed us a look at some of the most talented players in the state in a variety of categories and positions, the most impressive of which by far being the bigs. Below are listed some the forwards that impressed the most and are must-sees for colleges and high school basketball fans!
Carlos Johnson – 6’6 – Benton Harbor – 2020
Johnson’s dominance and huge impact for the Tigers make it hard to believe he is just a sophomore. Standing at around 6’6, he has both height and strength that he uses very well. As is expected for a player like Johnson, he scores well in the post, gets some blocks, and grabs rebounds. However, he stands out because he can do so much more. First, he puts effort into getting rebounds; his rebounding column will be in the double digits consistently this year. On offensive boards, you can be sure he’s going back up strong for the put back. On defensive ones, he displays another one of his unique assets. By time he landed in possession of the ball, he had two guards already in the process of crossing half court. He showed an excellent ability to accurately send them long passes, leading to droves of fast break points for Benton Harbor. If the pass isn’t there, he also showed he could handle the ball surprisingly well. He moves his size pretty fast, too, and is able to lead the break himself. Finally, he likes to shoot. His shot from midrange and beyond is by no means deadly accurate, but he did prove he could hit some threes and fifteen-footers, making him all the more dangerous. All these factors combine to make Johnson a top prospect and #3 in Prep Hoops’ class of ’20.
Markeese Hastings – 6’6 – Godwin Heights – 2018
Hastings recently signed to Butler University and it is clear why. Likely because of the atmosphere of the event, he looked to impress and tried to dunk everything. In doing so, we got to view an extremely impressive vertical leap. With his height and position, it is a given he would be able to finish well in the post. However, in addition to his strong power moves, he also showed he could score with some deceptive and creative finishes. Finally, he displayed some versatility by playing outside of the post a bit. He proved he could hit the three as well as handle the ball fairly well. Along with fellow senior Lamar Norman Jr., Hastings will lead Godwin Heights to a successful season.
Seth Millner – 6’6 – Grand Rapids Christian – 2018
Last year at Christian, Millner was a part of a very accomplished team featuring multiple D1 recruits, a high national ranking, and a run at a Class A state title. Despite his great talent, he was not the Eagles’ first option because of the likes of Xavier Tillman (MSU, ’21) and Duane Washington (transferred to Sierra Canyon; Ohio State commit). However, in the absence of last year’s depth, this year will be his to take the leading role, something he proved he was ready for at Union. He was the main scorer for Christian, and they struggled without him. He had lots of rebounds, some monstrous blocks, and strong takes to the basket where he finished well. Finally, he showed a good handle as well as a midrange shot that cannot be ignored. His senior year looks to be very promising.
Luke Maranka – 6’9 – Hoop Heaven (Homeschool) – 2019
(via @HHAngelsVarsity)Standing at 6’9, Maranka may have been the tallest player in the building Tuesday. His height and length are two of his biggest advantages, and he uses them effectively to contest shots, finish at the rim, and shoot over defenders. He prefers to play high where he shoots the three and midrange jumper well. However, when he does play on the inside, he does a good job of finishing and is often sent to the charity stripe where he converts the free points fairly consistently. He has yet to receive an offer but is in conversation with several D1s and D2s. Last year, he earned recognition as the homeschool Midwest Sophomore Post Player of the Year, and, this year, he will be a force to be reckoned with in homeschool competition at the state and regional levels.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zi1WgsmDOQ
(Video by Prep Hoops’ own, Eric Schafer!)