Prep Hoops Series- Kansas City: 17U Glue Guys
Here are some of the top 17U glue guys who stood out this weekend on the courts that I was able to catch.
Thomas Lipscomb (2018)- KC Pacers Blue
At 6’8” Thomas is definitely a prospect worth watching. He can do a little of everything as he showed sound principles on defense, rebounds using his length, and can play on the wing or on the block depending on what his team needed.
Jacob Thionnet (2019)- Team Unity 17U
The 6’4” wing player gave us a glimpse of multiple facts of his game. He was aggressive going towards the basket which allowed him to get opportunities at the free throw line Sunday morning.
He rebounded well this weekend, used his athleticism to play above the rim, and was effective in leading the fast break at times- converting in transition for Unity.
Keion Fletcher (2020)- KC Pacers Red 17U
Keion was playing an age group up but you certainly couldn’t tell. He was electric Sunday morning as the primary scorer for the Pacers.
He got it done in transition on many occasions and showed his versatility with good outside shooting. He also showed signs of a good teammate, cheering from the sideline and communicating while on defense.
Trey Duffey (2019)- SSA Elite Black 17U
Although inconsistent at times this weekend, Trey showed his upside by providing whatever SSA needed depending on the game.
He was the leading scorer some games, battled against bigger and stronger prospects on defense, and was active on the boards in certain matchups.
Nic Zeil (2019)- KC Pacers Blue 17U
Nic plays on the same team as fellow glue guy, Thomas Lipscomb but on Sunday morning the Pacers subbed in platoons, always resulting in the two on the court at different times.
With similar skill sets, this strategy worked out well. Nic is an inch shorter at 6’7” but is a great 3/4 player who can stretch the defense with his outside shooting. He is also comfortable on the low block as he came down with many rebounds in each matchup this weekend.
Once he sharpens up his touch around the rim, Nic will be an even more dangerous prospect for the next level.
William Shumpert (2019)- Mokan Select 17U
At 6’5” Shumpert is someone who can play on the wing or on the block as he has the strength to bully defenders in the paint for easy baskets.
He had solid outings both Saturday and Sunday scoring in double figures and being a major factor on the glass. He’s versatile and showed his explosiveness on the break this weekend.