19th Annual OC North/South Challenge: Top Standouts
19th Annual OC North/South Challenge: Top Standouts
LAS FLORES, CA—The Orange County North/South Challenge is an ideal time to evaluate a number of teams that have a fair amount of college sleeper types that are not normally seen on the recruiting trail.
Top Standouts
David Atencio (Edison)
2018, PG, 6-foot-1, 170 pounds
Joel’s Take: Without a doubt the performance of the night goes to Mr. Antencio. The Chargers were down at half by double digits, and then Antencio put his fingerprints all over the game. He put the Wolverines (Aliso Niguel) defenders on their heels as he attacked relentlessly off the dribble—converting bucket after bucket in the paint with some serious dexterity involved. He can nail the occasional jump shot, but it’s his floor management skill set, savvy, and moxie that led the Chargers to victory.
Ben Carr (Dana Hills)
2019, SG, 6-foot-3, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: Carr was one of the bigger surprises of the night. The 6-foot-3 junior is an excellent all-around player. He has some sneaky bounce, but it’s his jump shooting (nice lift) that caught our attention. He cuts well off of screens, grabs rebounds in traffic, and is a savvy passer. Can play somewhere in college after his senior campaign.
Harminder Dhaliwal (Aliso Niguel)
2018, C, 6-foot-9, 220 pounds
Joel’s Take: Dhaliwai has a big frame with long arms and he has magnetic hands. He doesn’t have great feet, but he keeps the ball high and can score at a high percentage due to his soft touch. To take his game to another level he needs to improve his quickness and court demeanor (has a tendency to lose focus/poise).
Dean Keeler (Marina)
2019, C, 6-foot-8, 195 pounds
Joel’s Take: The willowy Keeler is a definite prospect to watch in the coming months. At his size he has a nice touch to the elbow, knows how to seal in the post, and he keeps the ball high. He can toss in the occasional jump hook and he possesses excellent feet and soft hands. He needs to gain considerable weight to due battle at the next level, but the tools and improved skill are evident.
Lucas Parks (Aliso Niguel)
2018, PG, 5-foot-10, 150 pounds
Joel’s Take: Parks would be a member of the All-Moxie squad if there was such a list in Southern California. He plays both ends with intensity and skill. Defensively, he slides his feet well and has active hands. Offensively, he changes speeds well with the dribble and he has a bag full of crafty moves to keep defenders off balance. If the defender backs off he can knock in the deep jump shot.