Hawthorne Shootout #HHCSO : Standouts Pt. 3/4
Will Banks IV: P.K. Yonge School
Banks is a rising senior who has improved more than anyone on the Blue Wave roster, in my eyes. Usually a post player who can scrap around the rim, hit the low-post jump hook and snag rebounds across the glass, Banks has transformed into more of a stretch-four who can step out and hit the three. His hustle on-court is up. His defense was on-point at the event. Banks will be a guy who will be a defensive anchor for the Blue Wave in his final season.
Tre Mann: The Villages School
He didn’t play particularly long due to a head injury, but he made his impact in the first half with his three-point shooting. Mann is one of the highly-touted wing players coming up in our state. He has the ability to carve through defenses with his smooth handle—and it’s quicker than people realize. He’s also a solid assister, doesn’t mind passing it off to the cutting man for an easy layup.
Byron Smith: P.K. Yonge School
This rising junior is one of the best guards in Gainesville. This summer, it’s been great to see him play more controlled and confident. His outside shooting has improved, he’s also much better at driving the baseline and finishing at the cup. His passing in transition is spot-on. On defense, he can close out quickly on those trying to drive. If the pass is near him, he can snag the steal with ease.