Bash in the Desert: Underclassmen to Know
The Bash in the Desert had talent at a lot of different levels which gave our staff the opportunity to see some of the top underclassmen in the state and west coast. Below is the list of the top underclassmen that everyone should know.
Underclassmen to Know
Xavier Dusell Xavier Dusell 6'4" | SG AZ Compass Prep | 2020 State #299 Nation AZ 6’3 PG/SG 2020 Mesquite (Team Harden)
Dusell might be the best shooter in the entire class. He can shoot off of the catch and does a great job of creating space for himself off of the dribble. Dusell has improved in his ability to put the ball on the floor and attack with aggression as well. He is great athlete with good length and intelligence. Dusell has all of the attributes needed to be a big time player.
Bryce Fitzgerald 6’6 PF/C 2020 Spring Valley (Las Vegas Knicks)
Fitzgerald was a little raw at times. However, his big body and soft hands could mean that he will be a force to be reckoned with very soon. He has a decent motor and can get up and down the court and is willing to find contact on the block on the offensive and defensive end. Furthermore, he is tough on the glass and imposes his will on opposing players.
Dominic Gonzalez Dominic Gonzalez 6'3" | SG Ironwood | 2020 State AZ 6’2 PG/SG 2020 Ironwood (AZU)
Gonzalez played up with the 17U AZU group and was knocking down shots all weekend. He still has a lot of work to do before he reaches his pinnacle; however, he is a knock down shooter who plays tough on ball defense. Moreover, he has good length at the point guard spot which could aid him in being an elite level help side defender and expanding his offensive game.
Anthony Hunter 5’11 PG 2020 Durango (Las Vegas Knicks)
Hunter had one of the highest basketball IQs out of any of the players at the tournament this weekend. He is not looking for the highlight real type play. He just wants to be solid and make plays. When he gets to the second level of the defense, he is making reads and determining where the basketball should go. In addition, he is a monster on the defensive end of the floor. This young man has an unbelievably bright future.
Paul Hayden Paul Hayden 6'5" | SF Sunnyslope | 2020 State AZ 6’4 SG/SF 2020 Sunnyslope (Classics)
Hayden might get lost in the rotation as Sunnyslope has their entire state championship team back next year. However, he is a name to know. He plays tough defense and is relentless on the glass. Even if he is not scoring the basketball, he understands how to make an impact on the game in an array of ways at a young age. He is the type of player who can play almost anywhere and contribute due to his winning mentality. With that said, he is capable of being a big time scorer with the ball in his hands as well.