2021 Rankings Update: Forwards
The forward crop in the 2021 class is especially thin. While there are surely plenty of players out there we have yet to see and others who will hit growth spurts and transition into the front court, there aren’t many in the class right now. Only one forward is in the top 10 of this guard heavy class. Here’s a look at the top forwards in the crop of rising sophomores:
Isaiah Mason, Bowling Green – Long and athletic, Mason is an excellent rebounder and continues improving as a scorer outside of the paint. Isaiah can put his head down and get to the rim but has to improve his perimeter shooting. Mason will need to continue to develop his ballhandling and passing as he ages. If Isaiah grows, he should be a good small forward prospect. If he doesn’t grow, Isaiah will need to transition to being a combo guard. Isaiah plays AAU for Manimal Elite.
Mason Moore, Paintsville – Looking at statistics, Mason was one of the top freshmen in the state this season. In only his freshman season, Moore was likely the best player in the 15th region. Mason has good size for the position but will need to grow and become a combo forward or improve his mobility to be able to guard wings at the next level. Moore does not play AAU due to baseball.
Sam Conley, Spencer County – One of the stronger and more athletic forwards in the 2021 group, Conley looks different physically than your typical freshman basketball player. Sam has been playing varsity for two years at Spencer County and figures to end his career holding every major record in the Bears record book. Conley needs to continue developing his perimeter skills as he continues in his career as he looks to be close to done growing. Sam can be found playing with the Louisville Magic on the Adidas Circuit.
Anthony “Rooster” Woodard – Rooster is a kids whose motor never stops running. He plays with energy and effort on both ends of the floor and it makes a visible difference. Woodard is long and athletic and is improving as a scorer and perimeter shooter. As this group of prospects age, Woodard could move up the rankings if he continues developing his skills and doesn’t lose his motor. Rooster is playing alongside Isaiah Mason with Manimal Elite 15u.
Jared Wellman, George Rogers Clark – Wellman faced a difficult transition after scoring 17 points per game as an 8th grader at Lawrence County. Jared enrolled at GRC last summer and started the season as a role player for a good Cardinal team. As the year progressed, Jared’s role grew and he’s now a more complete player than he was a year ago. This past weekend the 6’4″ forward went for more than 20 points and 20 rebounds, showcasing what a complete player he is. You can see Jared playing with 15u M.A.T.T.S. Mustangs this spring and summer.
Other Names to Know:
DeAjuan Stepp, West Jessamine
Isaiah May, Johnson Central
Spencer Baird, Casey County