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 power forwards in the class of 2018. The power forward group already has two kids with D1 offers and a couple others with lower level offers. Here’s a look at the highest ranked power forwards in the 2018 class.
Carter Hendricksen, Lexington Christian – Much has been written about Carter in the past few months. The 6’8″ Stretch 4 recently took a visit to University of North Florida, who gave Carter his lone D1 offer at this time. Several other D1 schools have gotten involved with Hendricksen recently and no one would be surprised if he sees a major increase in his offer list before pledging his services to a school in the spring.
Zach Kelch, Simon Kenton – An early commit to The Naval Academy, Kelch is a 6’9″ post who should be one of the top big men in the state this season. Kelch will need to increase his junior year averages of 12 points and 8 rebounds per game if Simon Kenton is going to have a successful 2017-18 season. Kelch can stretch the floor with his shooting when given the opportunity and looks to have a bright future in the Naval Academy. Both on the court and on the water.
Clint Wickliffe, Fern Creek – A versatile big man at 6’7″, Clint Wickliffe is a high school version of Draymond Green. Wickliffe can stretch the floor and make threes but one of his biggest strengths is his leadership and basketball IQ. Clint holds an offer from NAIA Powerhouse Georgetown College and could see more college attention come his way as he goes through his senior season. One way to catch more coaches eyes would be to increase his rebounding rate as Clint only averaged 3.5 rebounds per game as a junior.
Michael Burns, Butler – Standing 6’7 and playing with a high motor, Burns reminds some of current Georgetown College big and fellow Louisville native Chris Coffey. Burns only averaged 5 points per game as a junior but continues to improve under coach K.C. Goodin. Big Mike definitely has a high ceiling and his best basketball certainly lies ahead. Butler had a highly successful summer and could make a run to Rupp Arena in March. If they do, Burns will be a big reason why.
Pierce Kiesler, St. Xavier – Standing 6’7 and controlling the paint for St. X, Pierce Kiesler is coming off a very strong junior season where he averaged nearly 17 points and 6 rebounds per game. Kiesler was also named to the All 7th Region team last season and hopes to lead his team on a deep run in March. Pierce currently has college interest from every level, all the way from D3 to D1. If he has a big senior campaign, he should see his stock rise big time.
