Spring Kick Off (2017): 17U Stock Risers
Although there were not a lot of unexpected results after the first night, there were a number of players who improved their stock significantly. The 17U group had a number of stock risers who played extremely well. The following are my list of 17U Stock Risers from Friday night at the Spring Kick Off.
Friday Night 17U Stock Risers
Stock Riser: #5: Gaige Prim 6’8 PF/C 2017 Grandview (Colorado United USS)
Prim had a great showing, particularly in the first half. He possesses good size and length to go along with his skillset. While on the block he demonstrated that he has an array of moves. His favorite from the right block was a baseline counter drop step. Furthermore, he has a really soft touch around the rim and was an absolute handful. As an unsigned senior, he should be getting plenty of looks and an opportunity to play at the next level.
Stock Riser: #4: Ryan Ongala 6’6 SF/PF 2018 Rangeview (Colorado Miners)
Ongala is a physical beast. His capable of playing along the perimeter and has a decent shot. However, the Miners positioned him down low and let him flat out bully the opponent. Ongala has a nice drop step and the strength and athleticism to finish the move. His functional strength to go along with his versatility and quickness were quite impressive to say the least.
Stock Riser: #3 Erick Mitchell 6’0 PG 2017 Mitchell (Colorado Thunder)
Despite not getting the W, Mitchell did a lot of impressive things for the Colorado Thunder. He is a solid on ball defender with great instincts. His ability to generate steals without gambling or getting himself out of position was impressive. In addition, he was able to pick up the opposing point guard full court and harass them. From an offensive perspective, Mitchell finishes really well around the rim and does a great job of getting paint touches and kicking to teammates.
Eaglecrest’s Colbey Ross contests a shot from George Washington’s Calvin Fugett during the 5A state championship game at the Denver Coliseum on Saturday, March 11.Stock Riser: #2 Calvin Fugett 6’0 PG 2017 George Washington (Colorado United USS)
Fugett is a physical point guard who does a masterful job of getting past the first line of defense. Furthermore, he makes great decisions at the second level and has a knack for finding the open player. Defensively, he is a nightmare for opposing point guards. He is quick, strong, and fundamentally sound. His pressure makes it extremely difficult to get the offense set and to feel comfortable.
Stock Riser: #1 Goy Wong 6’5 SF 2018 Overland (The Force Basketball 17U Blue)
Wong is a solid player with a lot of potential. He is long and athletic. Add to it, he has a smooth jump shoot, a good release point, and he is good at attacking the rim. In addition, he has a high basketball IQ and finds his teammates really well. On the defensive end of the floor, he is able to guard an array of positions due to his athleticism and length. He is a solid prospect who is worth a look for many next level suitors.