Super 16: Backcourt 16U
The Super 16 is heralded as a staple of the spring for Ohio programs. Before the schedules even come out, we know we’ll be there for it. This year was no different, as plenty of our state’s best showed out.
Amongst 16U guards, we even had a few fabulous freshmen take the stage and dominate games.
CJ Anthony (2020), 6’0” PG, Ohio Bulldogs / Harvest Prep
We really like the way Anthony handles his business on the court. The young combo guard doesn’t waste dribbles nor any motion with his shooting form. He was on fire from deep on Saturday and nearly brought his team back from a late-game deficit when he became aggressive. Anthony is built like a running back, and we’re talking about the ones that run people over. His strength allows him to handle contact and finish and-one opportunities. Disciplined team defender.
Kaden Warner (2021), 5’10” G, BTC Trojans / Gamble Montessori
Although he’s not the most polished offensive talent, Warner continually gets the ball into the basket against older competition. The unorthodox shooter is capable of scoring from a step beyond the 3-point line. He can also athletically get a bucket in transition or use his bounce to rebound in traffic. Warner plays with hunger.
Meechie Johnson (2021), 6’0” G, Hard Work / Garfield Heights
Johnson plays the game like a true gym rat. His ability to anticipate cuts and deliver timely passes is a mature skill — a playmaking asset that results in numerous fast break assists. The high-profile recruit from Garfield Heights opens up those passing lanes with the attention he draws as a lethal outside shooter. He has a sneakily quick release and twitchy handle. It goes without saying but Johnson is knock-down shooter.
Simon Blair (2020), 5’9” PG, Wooster Warriors / South Central
Blair showed a lot of true point guard qualities in a Saturday afternoon game that went down to the wire. He doesn’t force shots but is able to make plays with his cerebral court awareness. Blair shows patience at the top of the key and knows when to get into the mid-range for his own shot. The rural, small-town guard also shows quickness in a couple of ways — with his handle and laterally on defense. Blair has added on upper body muscle since we last saw him at our Top 250 Expo at Pick North last September, giving him more of an athletic build. Could be a difference-maker at the Division III collegiate level if he doesn’t nab scholarship offers.
Kade Ruegsegger (2020), 6’3” G/W, Wooster Warriors / Dover
Ruegsegger, a Division I All Ohio Special Mention performer last season, flashed exciting potential on the wing this weekend. He’s a very long athlete and is able to utilize that advantage on defense and the drive. In other words, he takes long steps to get to the basket in a hurry. Ruegsegger also smartly relocates as an off-ball guard and can hit jumpers with range.
Taquan Simington (2020), 6’2” G, Ohio Hoopsters – LBC / Columbus South
The Columbus City League prospect played with inspiring effort and a chip on his shoulder at the Super 16. Meaning, Simington jawed with the other team and seemed to take his one-on-one matchups personally. Offensively, he routinely blew-by defenders in the halfcourt and finished with verticality. In general, Simington can create separation whenever.
Although he needs to tighten up his handle and be a more consistent shooter, Simington has real potential because of his athleticism. Occasionally converted tough jumpers inside the arch.
Brendan Lamb (2020), 5’10” PG, Mid Ohio Pumas Blue (Jayaraman) / Clinton-Massie (formerly Lebanon)
On Saturday evening, Lamb was on the other end of Simington’s tenacity and responded accordingly. The physical lead guard loves to partake in chippy play, but impressively keeps his composure during the battle. Most importantly, Lamb converted shots on drives to the rim. He is undersized, yet fast and strong. With just an inch of space, the Clinton Massie transfer is able to use his strength to create enough space for a layup. Impressive on-ball defensive player.