2016 Best Available: Guards (Part 1)
As the VHSL and VISAA playoffs get under way, we will take a look at some of the best available seniors left in the state, many of whom will be big players in how the playoffs pan out throughout the…
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Continue ReadingAs the VHSL and VISAA playoffs get under way, we will take a look at some of the best available seniors left in the state, many of whom will be big players in how the playoffs pan out throughout the state. To start, we list eight guards, in no particular order, who have shown time in and time out that they are worth a look for a scholarship.
Devante Carter; 6’2″; Woodside
It’s unsure whether or not Carter will be prepping or not, but whether or not he takes another year he’s still a college ready point guard that would help a mid-to-high major program for four years. He has a college ready body and is a shifty ball handler with a quick first step that can finish in the lane. He’s been injured for a good part of the season, but has been one of the most dominant lead guards in VA when he’s been on the court.
Luther Gibbs; 6’0; Culpeper County
Gibbs is the definition of smooth. He doesn’t look like he’s that explosive when he plays, but he’s shifty and has good burst which makes it hard for defenders to contain him off the bounce. He’s a long guard with great instincts that is a good athlete with a great skill set. He’s capable of playing and guarding both guard positions, and is one of the most underrated guards in the state.
Travis Fields; 5’9; IC Norcom
If there was an All Intangibles Team, Fields would be first team the last three seasons. A born leader, Fields understands the game and what it takes to win. He’s been on a tear all season long, leading Norcom to a 21-1 record with one of the toughest schedules in the VHSL. A quick and tough guard, Fields thrives in big situations, and is relentless in his attack. He holds multiple division two offers, and will be one of the most talked about players as the VHSL playoffs start.
Gus Rowland; 5’11; Henrico
Rowland was an underrated key in Henrico’s undefeated season and state championship last year, as he continually set the tempo on both ends of the floor. He’s a good on ball defender, as he gets in defenders turning them the length of the floor. Offensively, Rowland carves up the paint and reads the ball screen well. He’s also an above average finisher and rebounder for his size.
Keaton Simmons; 5’9; Stonewall Jackson
Simmons is perhaps the most skilled guard on this list. He’s a smooth ball handler that shoot it well off the bounce and create out of any set. He’s capable of breaking pressure on his own and lives in the paint where he can find others or hit an array of tough shots. He’s a smooth scorer that is capable of hanging 30 on a team in any given night, and he plays much bigger than he is.
Keshon Montague; 5’9; Mount Mission
Montague is part of a stable of unsigned senior guards at Mount Mission, the small boarding school in Grundy, VA for foreign exchange students. The Canadian has been a major part of their team, who has garnered national recognition playing the best teams up and down the east coast and competing on a national scale. He’s a small, athletic guard that hounds ball handlers, lives in the lane and has a toughness about him. Is a scholarship level talent for sure.
Kendrick Tucker; 6’2; Northside
It’s tough to say whether Tucker’s a one or a two at the next level, but he’s one of the most productive players in the Roanoke area for the second season. After leading Northside to the state semifinals last season, he looks to be well on the way to repeating that feat and possibly more this year. He’s a lefty that can score it at all three levels, and has great instincts on the ball and off.
Georgie Pacheco; 6’2; Deep Run
Pacheco has always flown under the radar despite his ability to shoot it as well as any guard in the state. He’s a combo with good size that can is deadly from deep and has good feel, allowing him to make plays for others. He recently competed with the Puerto Rican 17U National Team over the summer, and lost over 20 lbs. putting him in great shape. He’s been lighting it up to the tune of more than three three-pointers a game, and has had big outings in their best games throughout the season.