5 Takeaways: Springfield Parkview (Mo.) vs. Pittsburg (Kan.)
2019 G Tyem Freeman is a human highlight
Even on a day where he didn’t play his best basketball, Freeman still finished with 17 points with a dirty dunk and monster block. At this point he is must-see action every time he steps on the floor. The 6-foot-5 wing has shown noticeable improvement in his ability to create offense for others as a primary play maker, as well as his perimeter jumper so far this season. The fact that he’s averaging nearly 28 points, seven rebounds and three assists proves that he’s developed into more than just a great athlete.
.@TyemFreeman with a solid Saturday edition of #NoLayups … Parkview junior makes it look easy, man. pic.twitter.com/mh9dKR7huI
— George Balekji (@GeorgeBalekji) December 17, 2017
Gavyn Elkamil one of the best 2020s in the nation?
This will continue to be the question surrounding the 6-foot-3 guard. He projects as a point guard at the next level but plays a 2-3 for Pittsburg. He’s still adjusting to playing off the ball, but in this game he rebounded well and scored at all three levels. He doesn’t have elite athleticism, but he’s one of the most skilled kids you’ll see at his age. He’s also a reclassification candidate because of how young he is, which would easily put him in the discussion as one of the top 2021 PGs in the nation – especially after the work he put in during the summer.
2020 G Dontae Taylor grows offensively
There’s never been any question surrounding Taylor’s ability defensively. He again proved that by defending Elkamil for stretches and doing a tremendous job. But Taylor also looked much better offensively. He’s an improved finisher and his mid-range game looks much more consistent. He’s quickly developing into one of the top two-way point guards in his class, averaging nearly 17 points and five assists so far this season.
Dontae Taylor with the basket! #BeParkview @Parkview_Viking @PHSVikingBBall pic.twitter.com/ICyMrBejj8
— Papa Viking (@TheView_Sports) December 13, 2017
Uncommitted Seniors
Pittsburg senior Marque English had yet another big game, scoring 20 points and defending Freeman for extended stretches of the game. The 6-foot-4 wing is long and athletic with the ability to shoot the jumper and even provide a point-forward look. For Parkview Gage Clark and Daru Elliott both had great games. Clark, a 6-foot-4 forward, has found a role as a stretch big for Parkview and his 16 points and four triples were pivotal in the win. He’s averaging 7.3 points and 5.1 rebounds, also shooting nearly 40 percent from 3-point range. Elliott is a 5-foot-10 guard that defends at a high level and creates offense for others. Several times he got into the teeth of Pittsburg’s defense with every intention of drawing two defenders and kicking it out for 3-point looks.
Limitless Potential
The two players that were the most intriguing to see were also the game’s tallest and shortest players. Parkview 2019 F Tre Morrison is 6-foot-8 with a long frame and bounce. He’s a true rim protector but he’s still developing the ability to do so without fouling. His numbers continue to be limited because he’s constantly saddled with foul trouble, but you can see all the tools coming together. Meanwhile for Pittsburg, 5-foot-6 2021 G Javon Grant is going to be electric. He’s lightning quick which allows him to pressure the ball and attack the rim. He also plays with a chip on his shoulder. As he matures physically he will be a handful to deal with.