Top Performers: Vantage Hoops Spring Showcase Seniors (Part 1)
The Vantage Hoops Spring Showcase was held the day after the VHSL state championships at Potomac High School. It featured 55 of the most underrated players in the state, ranging in classes from seniors to freshman. The day included headshots, skill development stations and live games. Here are 10 of the top senior performers from the event.
Guards
- Tayler Brletic; 5’9”; Christ Chapel
We saw the same stuff that he showed at his four years at Christ Chapel, which is a competitive fire and will to show that despite his size, he’s an absolute hooper. Brletic is a dual threat PG that can score it and create for his teammates. He has a very high IQ, and his winning demeanor and craftiness makes him a great option to run the show for any team.
- Bruice Harris; 5’10”; Life Christian Academy
Harris had a huge year for Life Christian, scoring in double figures every game of the season and averaging 15.8 points per game while running the show. He also helped mentor the young guards they have throughout the season. A good ball handler and shot maker, Harris impressed a number of coaches with his ability to handle the ball and score in all situations.
- Dominique Carter; 6’0; Warwick
An under the radar player the last few years at Warwick, we saw Carter play really well at our Primetime Prospects Combine in Roanoke before the season, and he showed the same skillset at the Spring Showcase. He can play and guard both guard positions, and is capable of creating his own shots in the half court set and see the floor in transition. He had more than a few coaches intrigued throughout the event.
- Justin Williams; 6’0; Surry County
One of the best players in 1A the last two seasons, including an All State selection last season, Williams showed that he could’ve been an impact player at any level in the VHSL. A scoring point guard that excels in downhill situations, Williams was especially good in the midrange, and refrained from being selfish in the showcase, only taking good shots and keeping everyone involved.
Wings
- James “Amp” Williams; 6’4”; Meadowbrook
We can call him “microwave” because when he heats up, he heats up quick. Williams is a shooter with deep range that is able to put it on the floor and get his own shot. He’s a talented and hungry competitor that will benefit from a JUCO stint to get bigger. He was perhaps the best pure scorer at the event, and his attitude and willingness to do what it takes to make it is as good as any kid I’ve talked to all season.
- Tyler Lloyd; 6’4”; Osbourn
An athletic wing with a good frame, Lloyd finished around the basket well, including showing some ability to get above the rim. Lloyd played with energy and passion throughout the day, which is good to see from a kid in a showcase or camp like setting. He has a good, strong frame and the work ethic that coaches are looking for.
- Josiah Avington; 6’1”; James Monroe
He was an underrated part of a James Monroe team that really started clicking when everybody bought in. Avington is an athletic shotmaker that is good off the catch and one or two dribbles from the wing. He’s a competitor that worked really hard in stations to get better, and he played with intensity throughout the day.
- Anthony Taylor; 6’2”; Varina
Taylor was hidden in a deep and balanced offensive Varina team, but he showed that he is a talented wing that can play above the rim in transition. He moves well without the basketball, makes quick and good decisions when attacking and is a good rebounder for his size. He also didn’t shy away from anyone around the basket.
Bigs
- Tahkey Williams; 6’5”; LC Bird
Williams is one of those players that helps you win a game, no matter what it takes. He can rebound, defend multiple positions and alters shots in the paint on the defensive end. Offensively, he can shoot the set shot from deep and can finish in the paint through contact. His hustle and energy allowed him to be productive throughout the day.
- Eric Okenchi; 6’7”; Life Christian Academy
He’s still somewhat raw, but what potential this kid has as a project. The 6’7” big is built like a house, gets off his feet well and is an impact defensively right now. He’s a rebounding machine that has solid, and he finishes around the basket, especially on second chance opportunities. With some work, Okenchi could pay off big time at the next level.