With our updated rankings coming out late last week, there were some big movers. But we also saw some familiar names at the top of the list. Here, we look at the top Centers in the class of 2018. There are only a handful of true centers in the 2018 class. One has already committed to a high major school, another looks to be a high major football player while the others are looking for their college homes.
Jake Walter, Covington Catholic – Without a doubt the best center in the state regardless of class, Big Jake is already committed to Xavier heading into his senior season. The only 7 footer in the state, Walter is highly skilled offensively and has smooth post moves to go with advanced passing. Xavier coach Chris Mack likes to use a big, bruising center to go with a more finesse power forward and Jake can be that bruiser for sure. Not sure if he’ll see the floor much as an underclassman but look for Jake to have an impact in the Big East before he graduates.
Oumar Keita, Cordia – A fixture in the 2018 class since he was starting at Cordia as an 8th grader, it feels like Oumar has been in high school since the George W. Bush was president. Keita is at his best as a rebounder and scoring at the rim. He has flashed some skill and shooting ability over the years but Keita hasn’t developed as much as he should have. Once holding D1 offers as a freshman and sophomore, Keita probably projects as a D2 or NAIA college player at this time and could be a good candidate for the junior college level.
Dalton Perkins, Mason County – Standing almost 6’10 and possessing a monstrous wingspan, Dalton Perkins is still waiting for his offense to catch up with his defense. With interest ranging from D3 to D1, Perkins is probably best suited for a high academic institution. Perkins is possibly the best shot blocker in the commonwealth but health has been a concern throughout his high school career. If Dalton can stay healthy, Mason County has a chance to make a run to Rupp Arena.
Ethan Driskell, Louisville Holy Cross – Standing at a massive 6’9 and likely close to 280 pounds, Driskell’s future is most likely on the football field. Ethan recently visited Kentucky on an unofficial and projects as an offensive lineman in college. On the hardwood, Driskell averaged 7 points and 7 rebounds for Holy Cross last season. He had a good summer with Louisville Prospects AAU and could see basketball offers from lower level schools if he has a good senior season.
