Live Period Primer: 16U Teams
The Live Period carries a little extra weight for the 2020 prospects this spring and summer, in comparison to last year. Expect coaches to surround the court this weekend for certain Ohio teams. After detailing the circuit teams yesterday, here’s some quick analysis of Ohio’s 16U teams that have impressed so far this spring.
The Pitt Jam Fest is host to one of the top non-circuit events in the country this weekend. Here are the top Ohio 16Us taking the court there.
All Ohio Red EYBL: One weekend before their EYBL debut, Red will be one of the top teams in Pennsylvania today through Sunday. Coffman point guard Dom Penn is their lead man. Penn should draw looks from MM/HM programs, who will want to see him take care of the ball and play strong on-ball defense. It’s also a crucial summer for 6’9” center John Hugley, who showed development as an interior scorer this winter for Brush.
Others on the roster: Isaiah Wilson, Marcus Johnson, Devontae Blanton, Carl Blanton, Josiah Fulcher, DJ Gordon, Nekhi Smith, Max Mollman
Ohio Bulldogs: The Bulldogs went 4-1 and won the Silver bracket of the Mid Ohio Classic last weekend. Truthfully, we don’t know a ton about this team, other than that they carry two quality point guards in CJ Anthony and Isaiah Kennedy. Anthony is especially intriguing for LM and D-II programs. He’s a disciplined player who commands attention from deep as a shooter.
Others on the roster: unavailable
All Ohio Rebels: The Rebels have come out swinging this spring with strong performances in Columbus and Grand Rapids the previous two weekends. The high-energy roster likes to hurt opponents from deep and are led by D-I prospect Garvin Clarke. Clarke has developed a 3-point threat since last summer and is an excellent on-ball defender. Corey Floyd and Dakota Cochran have also been strong members of their starting five this spring.
Others on the roster: Amarion Dickerson, Nicholas Ferguson, Marcus Johnson, Devin Hightower, Connor Boclear, Zach Chapmon, Dylan Jones, Noah Peoples, Jalen Ross, Scott Minor
Indianapolis hosts the entire Mid Ohio Pumas program at the 16U level this weekend, but one team in particular has stuck out this spring.
Mid Ohio Pumas Black (Staib): To our knowledge, this Pumas team is yet to drop a game this spring. Jack Santa Emma, Nate Staib, and Nate Griggs, combine for a trio of ball-handlers that protect the ball and shoot it with range. Brandon Noel is a versatile offensive forward from Chillicothe. Meanwhile, Gage Keys from Hilliard Davidson compliments Noel in the frontcourt with his ability to switch on defense.
Others on the roster: Paul Burris, Nick Nesser, Jalen Orwig, Logan Slubowski
Making the trek all the way to Illinois for the Nike Spring Showdown is a first year team from Northeast Ohio.
All Ohio Cleveland: They’re back in action after surprising everyone with a First Place finish at the Nike Cup two weekends ago. Richmond Heights 6’4” prospect Gbolahan Adio has upside as a scorer on the wing. He shot the ball well off the dribble and has the ability to attack also. Otherwise, forwards Anthony Maxie and Brent Darby Jr. can hurt you with the athleticism and size.
Others on the roster: unavaiable