Prospect Report: Kellen Ball (2020)
The Hazel Dell North standout Class of 2020 baller Kellen Ball is forward who is poised to have a break out sophomore campaign.
The small forward (SF), also known as the three. Is one of the five positions in a regulation basketball game. Small forwards are typically somewhat shorter, quicker, and leaner than power forwards and centers, but on occasion are just as tall. The small forward position is perhaps the most versatile of the five main basketball positions. One common thread among all kinds of small forwards is an ability to “get to the line”, that is, having opposing players called for committing shooting fouls against them, as fouls are frequently called on the defense when offensive players “take the ball hard” to the basket; that is, the offensive players aggressively attempt post -ups plays, lay-ups or dunks. Therefore, accurate foul shooting is an imperative skill for small forwards, many of whom record a large portion of their points at the foul line. Small forwards who are defensive specialists are very versatile as they can often guard multiple positions using their size, speed, and strength.
Kellen Ball to me is a small forward. He embodies all of the traits and skill sets of a small forwards. He is a very intriguing combination of size, fluidity and physicality on the wing. He’s capable of knocking down perimeter jump shots, but can also use his strength to overpower and expose mismatches against smaller defenders in the paint or off the dribble in transition and half-court situations. Kellen had his defensive versatility on display Saturday as his strength, length and lateral speed allow him to guard all five positions on the basketball court. Kellen has a knack for jumping passing lanes and corralling steals which lead to easy baskets on the other end. The rising sophomore has improved his ball skills and ability to create his own shot over the course of the spring and summer.
“AAU was fantastic; I grew as a player and a person. I played for Cagers Basketball Academy. This off-season I have been working on my footwork and ball handling skills. This upcoming season I am look forward to my new team and teammates. I am excited to play for my school. Recruiting has been bad. Nothing from any coaches but I am still waiting. I did get a call from the University of Washington though.