Metro Challenge Takeaways
HYATTSVILLE, MD — The fourth annual Metro Challenge showcased 60 of the best prospects from the greater Baltimore/Washington D.C. region at DeMatha Catholic High School on Saturday for a day of competition and exposure. Here were some of the biggest takeaways:
EARL TIMBERLAKE STEALS THE SHOW
Two years from now, Earl Timberlake will be a household name in the D.C. Metro Area, and four years from now, will probably be making some high major division one coach very happy. The versatile lefty displays significant defensive potential, and that’s where he will earn his bread and butter as he continues to develop. The long & lanky 6’5” forward is a good playmaker who enjoys getting up and down the floor in transition, and can finish efficiently in traffic.
WYNSTON TABBS POISED FOR A BREAKOUT
One of the more intriguing local 2018 prospects, Wynston Tabbs is quickly building a strong resume, and should be considered a top-tier option at the lead guard spot. Tabbs exhibits improved consistency and confidence in his perimeter jump shot, and is a very good paint getter and creative finisher at the rim.
NOAH LOCKE & BRENDAN ADAMS LIGHT IT UP
Good luck finding a more talented offensive duo than Team Melo backcourt mates Noah Locke and Brendan Adams. The polished scoring tandem from Baltimore shot exceptionally well from the perimeter, and did it both from the catch and off the bounce. Both guards have good size, and can really elevate and finish.
MYLES DREAD CONTINUES RUN OF STRONG PLAY
Penn State commit Myles Dread was on fire in the first game set, and didn’t slow down from there. The versatile 6’4 guard led the event in scoring, made threes, and made field goals. Dread’s versatility was on display defensively, where he actively, alertly, and effectively defended both on the perimeter and in the post.
ST. JOE’S GETTING A REALLY GOOD ONE IN JARED BYNUM
Jared Bynum followed up a superb showing at the DMV Showcase with another rock-solid outing at DeMatha on Saturday. The ultra-reliable playmaker finished top five in scoring, assists, and made threes. Bynum’s recent commitment to Saint Joseph’s marks a good early get for Hawks HC Phil Martelli and his staff.
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THE DMV HAS SERIOUS DEPTH IN 2018
Point guard is probably the deepest position locally 2018, but the Metro Challenge showcased some of the best the class has to offer at other positions. Daniel Oladapo, Aapeli Syrjamaki, and Devon Flowers are three attractive options for division one schools at the respective power forward and center positions. 6’6 Mezie Offurum of Georgetown Prep has bulked up, and possesses arguably the best blend of size and skill in the area. Miles Latimer and Matthew Urbach are two wings who are emerging, and should be on the radar of low-to-mid level division one programs, respectively. If you’re a D1 coach looking for help in 2018, the DMV is certainly not a bad place to start.