Under the radar: Darrin Ryan
Darrin Ryan (5’11” Jr. G), in his first game for the Southmoore SaberCats (6A No. 7) on Tuesday night, scored 15 points, 10 of which came in the first quarter, against Edmond Memorial (6A No. 5). While the Bulldogs came away with the victory, Ryan’s performance was a positive note that will linger and be a staple for the SaberCats this season.
(Quick hits: show-stopper, shooter, glue player, defender)
The Person
Ryan transferred to Southmoore from Enid (6A NR) over the summer and was thrown into the Cats’ starting lineup immediately. He played with Southmoore teammate Jordan Thompson in the offseason. After strong urging from Thompson to transfer, Ryan budged and convinced his mother to allow him to become a SaberCat.
With the Plainsmen, Ryan started as a sophomore and was a scoring fixture in their offense.
“I feel like I can shoot the ball very good and pass and play defense,” Ryan says. “I’m a great two-way player.”
Ryan had multiple scoring nights finishing with 20-plus with Enid last season.
“Better shooting and just getting better dribbling,” are Ryan’s goals this season, he says. He had a solid start Tuesday night.
The Player
Ryan showcased his scoring abilities well in his 15-point showing. Scoring all of Southmoore’s 10 points in the first quarter caught my eye, seeing as he plays alongside Thompson, one of the more explosive scorers in the area.
His production was limited in the latter half of the game, but I don’t see that as a problem being the first game of the season against a defensively-disciplined team in Edmond Memorial. I believe he will become more consistent and have plenty of nights leading the SaberCats in scoring.
The 5-foot-11 junior was able to penetrate the Edmond Memorial defense on more than one occasion, despite Memorial’s height. At times, he finished above taller players or drew a foul.
A few of his points came from pure hustle as well, including a couple of fast break finishes. He has sneaky speed that makes him difficult to guard.
Ryan’s quick release was exceptional as he was well-contested on all three of the 3-pointers he hit for the night. He is a talented spot-up shooter. I’m interested to see how his off-the-dribble shooting improves this season.
He also passed the ball around well and was able to make shot opportunities available for his teammates.
He has flown below the radar in terms of recruiting, but his play has demanded and warranted respect. While he has yet to receive extensive attention from college coaches, I believe his junior season could change that.