Summer league players to watch: Central Bobcats seniors
The Central Bobcats basketball team finished the 2017-18 season at 13-13, but lost no seniors to graduation.
Now one of the most experienced, senior-led teams in the state, Central brings back its same starting unit from last season. With length at every position, and another year under their belts with coach Darren Bustos, Central has a realistic shot at contending for a playoff spot in 6A.
Here are four players to keep an eye on in summer league and the season moving forward:
- Cinsere West: Guard
West is the type of lead guard that can take over a high school game. He’s quick-footed, dribbles well with both hands, and can get to the rim for lay ups and shooting fouls. In an offensive pinch, he can utilize his athleticism to beat his man one-on-one and get to the basket to make a play for himself or a teammate. He is a bit of a risk taker on defense, which opposing guards sometimes exploit, but allows him to pile up steals and lead the team into transition opportunities.
- Greg Butler: Guard
Butler is big, tall and strong for a high school shooting guard, and possesses something necessary for any team that plays at the fast pace Central has often played at in summer league: a solid, quickly-releases jump shot from the perimeter. His shooting ability, especially from the corners, opens up a lot on the offensive end. Just like West, he is a good on-ball defender and uses his size to rebound well for a guard.
- Kelyl Harrington: Forward
With sneakily-long arms, Harrington makes it difficult for opponents to dribble anywhere near him, for fear of getting the ball swiped away. He has solid leaping ability, which allows him to collect rebounds on both ends. When he drives, Harrington is a clever finisher around the hoop, using his size and strength to move his body into position for good chances at lay ups.
- Jailind Bunton: Guard
Another lengthy, quick guard with dribbling skills, Bunton adds to Central’s depth in the back court. With the ability to be the main ball handler when the other guards rest, he can distribute and run the offense as about the same clip as when the full starting unit is on the floor. Much like the others at the position, Bunton has keen finishing ability near the hoop,and can be relied on to get a few buckets in the one-on-one game.