Arizona Top 250 Expo: Top 10 Frontcourt
The Arizona Top 250 Expo saw over 100 young men in its first year of existence. In that one hundred, some of the top post players in the state as well as many up and comers were in the mix. Here is a list of the top 10 bigs during the skill development work.
Top 250 Expo: Bigs
Ajang Aguek (Ironwood 2018) – Aguek has grown tremendously in height and skill. Although Aguek lists himself at a modest 6’3, he is probably closer to 6’5. In addition, his footwork has improved greatly. He is shooting the basketball smoother and at a quicker rate. He is playing more physical, but could still afford to put more weight on and to play a stronger. He could be an X-Factor for the Eagles this upcoming season.
Isaiah Alonzo (Tri-City 2018) – Alonzo demonstrated good athleticism and length. He has a good series of post moves and his mid-range jumper has improved. In addition, he did a good job of rotating in help side and using his length to cause problems on that end. He also showed that he was versatile to guard multiple spots on the floor during the expo skill development.
“BJ” Bryant (2019 NFL Yet) – Much like Exline, he is a 2 or 3, but he plays the game with good toughness and has a solid mid-range jumper. When playing with Tru Heat and NFL Yet, he has been used as a high post flasher, especially when teams play zone, as he is able to force the bottom defenders to be honest due to his shooting abilities. This creates mismatches and high-low entries. He is a talented passer as well.
David Exline (2018 Mesquite) – Exline is definitely more of a 2 or 3. However, due to his size, strength, and skill set, it would not be surprising to see Mesquite use him to create a lot of mismatches. Exline has a good motor, a good drop step and counter, as well as an ability to shoot the ball off of the block. His physical style of play is fun to watch and should aid him greatly in playing post defense and being able to take players to the post. During the skill session, he demonstrated just that as he was able to play solid post defense due largely to his toughness and lower body strength.
Noah Foskit (2017 Ironwood) – Foskit demonstrated an above average vertical at the expo and good strength. He hit a couple of shots from deep as well. There is no question that he is best on the block at this point as he has a good frame, and he uses it to move bodies. Moreover, he is a problem for opponents on the offensive glass. He has a decent motor and good upside.
Andre Harris (2019 Red Mountain) – Two thoughts – it was a lot of fun to watch him and Hibbitt compete at an extremely high level. Second thought, this young man is going to be a handful this season and in years to come. It is crazy watching his footwork and ability to pass out of the block and realize that he is only a sophomore. In the post station, he demonstrated power and athleticism as he was able to move bodies on his drop steps and dunk it off of two feet. Moreover, he showed an improved jump shot that should add even more versatility to his game. Look for Harris and co. to have a solid season.
Geoff Hibbitt (2017 Ironwood) – Hibbitt has played solid two weekends in a row against some high level competition. His footwork in the post station was second to none. In addition, he has added elements to his game like a more consistent shot and sweep through moves. Defensively and on the glass, he uses his size and strength well and plays with good energy. Hibbitt went from being completely off of the radar to many having very high expectations for him this upcoming season.
Kade Maddock (2019 Canyon View Prep) – Maddock was a nice surprise at camp. In the skill sessions, he demonstrated some skills despite being new to the game. His footwork and ball handling skills have improved since the last time I saw him play. His size is uncoachable, he plays with a good motor, and controls the glass well.
Logan Matulis (2017 Moutain Pointe) – A couple of months ago Matulis would not have shown up in this category as he is more of a 3 with the ability to play the 4. However, due to the current situation at Mountain Pointe, it is likely that Matulis will see his time in the front court. At the expo, he demonstrated good footwork on the block and good patience. Moreover, due to being more of a guard, his ability to shoot the basketball from deep and take people off of the dribble make him an all around talent.
Brenden Van Dyke (2017 Westview) – Van Dyke had the most length out of any player at the expo. His versatility makes him a solid talent and someone worthy of playing at the next level. During the skill sessions, he demonstrated an ability to shoot the basketball at an above average level. Moreover, he did a nice job of rotating in help side and using his length to contest and alter shots. He also has a good motor and gets up and down the court well.