Great Seattle Shootout Stock Risers

<p>Franklin High School was the destination for hundreds of basketball community members last Friday evening as people lined up to watch some showcase games put on the the Hoop Salem Circuit. The 9:00pm ML20 (adidas) versus Seattle Rotary (Nike) was the flagship game that everyone was looking forward to. Rotary led by double digits for most of the game and never looked back, ultimately winning 81-70. Here are some of the players who helped their stock after a strong showing on Friday!</p> <p><em>Friday's Stock Risers:</em></p> <p>2021 6'1 PG <strong>Nolan Hickman</strong> (Seattle Rotary) - It's quite possible that no one has seen their stock rise more than Nolan Hickman this spring. He averaged over 17 points per game in the EYBL and he showed more of the same versus ML20. His ability to play at different speeds and keep the ball on a string with his handle makes him a very difficult matchup. Pressure defense does not seem to speed him up too much. One thing that was eye opening with Nolan's game is just how bouncy he is. He was reportedly playing through some injuries during the high school season, but I didn't know he could finish above the rim so well. Nolan is making his case for being a top 100 level player nationally. </p> <p>2020 6'5 SF<strong> Jacob Slifka</strong> (Team Fly White) - My first time personally watching the Oregon native in person and I came away impressed with his skill set. Jacob's game is not super flashy, but he displayed some fundamental footwork in his moves that caught me off guard at times. In a game where raw athleticism gets most of the attention, Jacob's game was refreshing to witness. He is a very skilled player that has solid shooting form and the footwork withing his moves to get to his spots. Solid small college prospect and he can be an impact player at the right level in college. </p> <p>2020 6'6 SG <strong>Marjon Beauchamp</strong> (ML20) - How does a top 30 national recruit boost his stock? How about 26 points versus the best team in the northwest region in Seattle Rotary. Marjon has improved in getting to the basket and his first step appears to be quicker than just a few months ago. 2021 6'5 G Shane Nowell of Rotary was tasked with stopping Beauchamp, but it was of no avail. Marjon got multiple dunks in transition, scored from the 3-line, mid range and got into the paint using his quick step and length. Despite ML20's loss, Marjon showed that he was the best guard on the floor. </p> <p>2020 6'9 PF <strong>Aiden Clark</strong> (Team Fly White) - Aiden is a big body, but he also showcased a solid motor inside the paint. He can finish through contact and alter/block shots at a high rate. Oregon's leading shot blocker should get a good amount of college attention by the end of the summer, but no offers have been reported at this time. </p> <p>2021 6'9<strong> Paolo Banchero</strong> (Seattle Rotary) - How does the number six player nationally rise his stock? Well, Paolo is doing everything in his power to do so. Paolo showed off everything on Friday from a tight handle, to powerful dunks, soft shooting touch and an ankle breaking triple threat move that has since gone viral. Coming off of a strong EYBL showing where Paolo made All Third team in session 1, the sophomore sensation seems to be out to prove that he should be in contention for the number one ranking in the country. </p>