Five Take aways: Bishop Miege-Free State
LAWRENCE — Two of the state’s premier teams squared off on Saturday as part of the 810varsity Sunflower Showcase as Bishop Miege held off host Lawrence Free State, 60-55.
Here, Prep Hoops Kansas takes a look at five things that stood out in the contest.
Earley tough in the paint (pictured)
Bishop Miege 2019 power forward Josh Earley showed he is among the state’s premier big men on Saturday as he was all over the boards at both ends of the court and tough to contain in the paint. He has explosive athleticism and is a terrific finisher around the basket where he is capable of throwing down power dunks.
Jones emerging as a threat
Bishop Miege 2019 wing Spencer Jones is an emerging prospect in the junior class and brings a lot of impressive physical tools to the court. He has an athletic frame and and a long wing span that belies his listed 6’5 height. He is a versatile defender, capable of competing against multiple positions at a high level. But on Saturday, he showed an improved offensive game, knocking down perimeter shots out of the corner. He has mostly deferred to his talented teammates, but has flashes of offensive brilliance.
Garrett a steady hand at the point
Jeremiah Garrett doesn’t get a lot of pub for Bishop Miege, but he is a terrific all-around point guard with terrific leadership qualities. He handles the ball well, defends, works hard at both ends of the floor and is full of heart and hustle. Garrett is strong getting to the bucket and to the free throw line. We’re not sure what his long term upside is as a college prospect, but he’s one of our favorite high school players to watch.
Luinstra still turning heads
Speaking of favorites, Free State 2018 point guard Garrett Luinstra rarely disappoints and always puts on a show for Free State. He is a well-rounded and capable scorer, gets to the bucket off the bounce, shoots the 3 and is capable of leading a team. He put together a big third quarter run for Free State on Saturday and helped the Firebirds take a short lived lead. Luinstra has announced he will walk on for his home town Kansas Jayhawks.
Robinson-Earl impresses — again
Bishop Miege 2019 forward Jeremiah Robinson-Earl is among the state’s top players and holds numerous Division I offers. At 6’8, he is tough to contain in the post where he combines great hands and the ability to catch tough passes in traffic with great footwork and the ability to score nearly at will in the post. But what makes him a special player is his versatility. He can handle the ball, shoot a little from the outside and guard multiple positions. On Saturday, Robinson-Earl took a few turns defending Free State 2018 point guard Garrett Luinstra and held his own.