St. John’s College High Practice Notebook
CHEVY CHASE, D.C. — This year’s version of Head Coach Sean McAloon’s team at St. John’s should not be taken lightly. The Cadets return seven players who gained valuable experience during last year’s 30-5 WCAC Championship run. Below are some notes from…
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Continue ReadingCHEVY CHASE, D.C. — This year’s version of Head Coach Sean McAloon’s team at St. John’s should not be taken lightly. The Cadets return seven players who gained valuable experience during last year’s 30-5 WCAC Championship run. Below are some notes from practice this past Saturday.
Richard Njoku a force in the paint
Richard Njoku has undergone a noticeable physical transformation since last season. The 6-foot-8 big man has added considerable strength and power to his game and that was evident with each of his forceful dunk attempts. Expect Njoku, who received a wave of division one scholarship offers this summer, to provide a valuable paint presence in what should be a productive junior campaign.
Qwanzi Samuels set for a breakout season
There is no denying the potential Qwanzi Samuels exhibits on the wing at the next level. Samuels showcased the ability to consistently stretch the floor with his jump shot, which along with his size makes him a difficult matchup on the perimeter. Another junior who received a flurry of scholarship offers this summer, Samuels should continue to see an uptick in his recruitment.
Tre Wood ready to run the show
From baseline to baseline, there aren’t many point guards in the country who can push the pace with the ball like Tre Wood. One thing that stood out about Wood on Saturday was how confident he looked while consistently hitting shots from the perimeter. The explosive playmaker is quite possibly in for some big games as the Cadets’ primary ball-handler.
Additional Notes
Casey Morsell is showing significant signs of improvement as he continues to grow into his body. The athletic sophomore guard exhibits good potential as a high level defender as a result of his length, physicality, and instincts.
L.J. Bryan should be regarded as one of the better available senior big men in the area. At 6-foot-8, Bryan has a substantial frame and moves bodies with relative ease down low.
Available senior guard Reese Mona, who returns as the the team’s leading scorer from a season ago, will no doubt play an integral role for the team on both ends of the court. Look for Mona to provide lockdown defense, leadership, and the ability to consistently stretch the floor from beyond the arc.
San Diego commit Emanuel Hylton brings experience and leadership to the Cadets back court. Expect Hylton to add an important element to this team with his physical play and playmaking ability.