KANSAS: Early season stock risers (wings)
KANSAS: Early season stock risers (wings)
With the Holiday season nearing the rear view mirror and the action on the hardwood about to heat back up, Prep Hoops takes a look at several players who are raising their profile with strong performances through the early stages of the 2017-2018 season.
Kenny Gavin, 6’4, F, 2018, St Thomas Aquinas
Gavin is something of a do-everything forward who is a little undersized for his position but still finds a way to get things done. He rebounds well, runs the floor exceptionally well and finishes in traffic. Gavin has been counted on for leadership and production this season as one of only a handful of returning varsity players for Aquinas.
Larry White, 6’5, F, 2018, Topeka
White is a well-rounded, versatile wing player with an inside-outside game. He can play point forward and help set up his teammates, rebounds well, shoots the 3 a little and is a standout shot blocker.
Davonshai Harden, 6’5, F, 2020, Topeka
Harden has terrific size and athleticism and combines those attributes with a well-rounded skill set, able to do a lot of different things at a high level. He handles the ball a little, can shoot from the perimeter and is a standout rebounder who can put points on the board in the paint.
Elijah Griffin, 6’1, G/F, 2018, Topeka West
Griffin is one of the state’s most unique players, capable of playing inside-out basketball, able to handle the ball and play on the perimeter to play on the wing, but is at his best operating on the block where he is a terrific post-up player. Griffin is averaging 18 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game this season and is shooting nearly 60 percent from the field.
Spencer Jones, 6’5, F, 2019, Bishop Miege
Playing on a deep and talented Miege team, Jones is not yet a big scorer but instead operates as a glue guy, able to handle the ball, rebound, pass and is at his best at the defensive end of the court. He can defend multiple positions and often switches from one position to another seamlessly.
Kenny Stewart, 6’1, G, 2018, Highland Park
Stewart is a bit of a hybrid wing/guard who plays much bigger than his listed height due to his frame and athleticism. He is tough to contain off the bounce, can shoot the 3 a little and is at his best slashing and driving to the basket. He is putting together a big season statistically and helped the Scots start the season 4-2 and is averaging 19.2 points and 5.8 rebounds per game.