Notebook: DR1VEN Timesland Invitational
The talent in the state of Virginia is so deep and spread out that at times the 540 and Roanoke area can be overlooked. Don’t get it confused however, there is plenty of next level talent out there, and we…
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SubscribeThe talent in the state of Virginia is so deep and spread out that at times the 540 and Roanoke area can be overlooked. Don’t get it confused however, there is plenty of next level talent out there, and we saw that first hand on Sunday at Northcross School. The trainers at DR1VEN Timesland put on a one day event for a select number of coaches that featured 14 of the best players in the area, and Vantage Hoops was given exclusive access to it. It was a terrific day of basketball, and here's some of what we came away with.
Brody Hicks is a Scoring Machine
Lord Botetourt Wings Impress
Nick Price a Star in the Making
Malik Johnson a Point Guard Maestro
The 6’4 point guard out of George Wythe (Wytheville) continues to impress with his feel for the game and translation to the next level, and was possibly the best next level prospect at the event. Johnson was especially impressive with the ball in his hands in transition, where he was able to blow by defenders and finish at the rim, or making them commit and delivering a solid pass when his team had numbers. His vision and decision making were exceptional, and as he improves his ability to score it on the perimeter he could be a division one point guard prospect.
Versatile Bigs Put on a Show
Extra Notes
- Salem senior guard Trevon Hill was one of the best shooters in attendance, with a pretty stroke from deep and a quick trigger on the pull. The 6’0 combo guard is an above average athlete who is always looking for the next opportunity to let it fly.
- Reigning state champion Jay Dandridge of Martinsville was pesky and scrappy throughout the event, this just two days after playing on the football field. A high motor and athletic 6’1 point guard, Dandridge was one of the better on ball defenders in attendance, turning opposing ball handlers the length of the court and giving them fits. His toughness will be big for Martinsville as they look to repeat this season.
- Ryan Drippel, a 6’6 senior out of William Byrd high school, showed good athleticism on the glass and the ability to stretch the defense with a couple threes. He’s a long and smooth big that can work both inside and out, and should be a go-to guy for Byrd his senior season.
- Matt Palumbo, a junior from St. Anne's Belfield School in Charlottesville, showed a quick release and good looking perimeter stroke. STAB will look to get up and down, and his ability to stretch the floor will be vital for his team's success. He is a knock down shooter and must be accounted for on the perimeter.
- Jefferson Forest's Chase Van Horn showed a terrific motor. He's a skilled 6'4 scoring wing who produces on both ends. He's a good play-maker with the ball in his hands too. He's a name to keep tabs on as his stock is on the uptick.