Top 250 Expo: Central Ohio Prospects (Part 2)
This week, we will highlight the top players from each region of Ohio, in an effort to show love to the prospects who had memorable performances at Saturday’s Top 250 Expo.
Zane Leitwein (2020), 6’2” G, Gahanna Lincoln
Leitwein was extremely efficient as a scorer. The sophomore hardly dribbled the basketball, as he mostly scored on quick lay-ups off a cut and catch-and-shoot. That being said, he also didn’t miss many open looks. As he diversifies his scoring package, look out for Leitwein.
Conner Maciag (2020), 6’2” G, Pickerington Central
First of all, Maciag had a scary moment during the 5-on-5 play when he had to be helped off the floor, with what appeared to be an ankle injury. We’ve since learned, from the Maciag family, that, upon being evaluated by the ER, he is “fine.”
Before being taken out of action, Maciag’s on-ball defense was causing problems for whoever he was checking. The kid was quick hands and feet. Also, the spot-up jumper looked rather solid. Playing off the ball, Maciag cut towards the rim whenever he had a chance to get a quick layup.
Cole Metzler (2020), 6’5” F, Canal Winchester
Metzler is primarily a shot-blocker. When slashers took it to the rim, he consistently challenged their shots high in the air, often ending in an emphatic swat. Metzler is also a pretty strong kid, which should give him the ability to defend 4s and 5s at the varsity level next season.
Jake Warriner (2020), 6’3” W, New Albany
After playing the forward position during the grassroots season in July, Warriner was the primary ball-handler and creator for his squad on Saturday. He excelled in the role, as he protects the ball and makes appropriate passes to teammates. Warriner even hit some pull-up triples on the secondary break, when defenders slacked off. Watch out once Warriner becomes more consistent at finishing in traffic.
Marcus Stewart (2021), 6’2” G, Wellington
Stewart’s length, ball-handling, shooting, and court-vision, gives him a spot on our (unofficial) 2021 watch list. Relative to other young prospects, the lefty is rather consistent as a shooter off the dribble. He uses the shooting threat to find chances to get all the way to the rim, where he finishes with athleticism. On the drive, Stewart also keeps his head up and finds open teammates. Pretty mature player whose body is yet to catch up.