UMSL Shootout (Friday Standouts)
The University of Missouri-St. Louis Shootout was a one-day event that featured several talented teams from the St. Louis area. Although some marquis players such as Courtney Ramey and Carte’are Gordon of Webster Groves, Jericole Hellems of Chaminade, Kale Catchings of CBC and Yuri Collins of St. Mary’s did not play on Friday, several other players stood out during the day. Here is a look at some of Friday’s individuals from the event:
Yahuza Rasas 6’6″ St. Mary’s (2018): The talented power forward put in a workmanlike effort in a victory over Webster Groves. He scored, rebounded and blocked shots at a high rate and played with his usual high motor. Rasas is also starting to expand his perimeter game as he is handling the ball and shooting jumpers a little more, which is good to see.
Josh Wallace 6’6″ CBC (2019): He was really tough in the two games I watched against Cardinal Ritter and Webster Groves. He played with excellent energy on both ends of the floor. He was rebounding at a high rate and running the court and getting dunks in transition. Josh has really stepped up the pace on the offensive end as he scored around the basket and displayed some nice offensive moves, including a very effective jump hooks.
Jordan Nesbit 6’5″ Lutheran North (2020): The big combo guard is one of the top young prospects in the state. He is very skilled and can create so many problems with his talent. He displayed the ability to get to the bucket and finish in traffic, plus he could stop on the dime and knock down 15-17 foot jumpers. Jordan also put in plenty of work in the low post where he could use his size as a weapon.
R.J. Wright 6’1″ Webster Groves (2018): The slender shooter continued his excellent play this spring on the offensive end. Without Ramey and Gordon, Wright stepped up and carried a lot of the offensive with his perimeter shooting. Not only was he knocking down 3-pointers, but Wright was also getting buckets in the half court and scoring in transition. He is playing with a lot of confidence.
Rashad McDaniels 5’10” Trinity (2020): The thick point guard is one of many talented young players for the Titans. As the floor leader, he is the one that has to make the team go. He is an excellent scoring threat with his strength and ability to get to the bucket and knock down jumpers, but his passing and playmaking were also very good as he continues to make his teammates better.