Hardwood Classic: Underrated Forwards (17U)

<p><b>Hardwood Classic: Underrated Forwards (17U)</b></p> <p>LAWRENCE, Kan. — The 2019 Hardwood Classic wrapped up on Sunday at the Kansas Sports Pavilion with MoKan Elite 2021 defeating the Missouri Flight in the championships game.</p> <p>Here, Prep Hoops takes a look at several of the tournament’s most underrated forwards from the Missouri side.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>21 — Dylan Brougham, 6’7, F, 2020, Park Hill South, MoKan 2020</strong></p> <p>Brougham has some bounce and length in his game and is emerging as a player to watch this season in the Kansas City area. He works hard at the defensive end of the court and shows the ability to block shots or defend on the perimeter where he shows good agility and quickness. Brougham is a terrific finisher capable of throwing down dunks and runs the floor exceptionally well.</p> <p><b>11-Kolten Griffin, 6’4, F, 2020, Lafayette,<span class="Apple-converted-space">  </span>Yobo</b></p> <p>Griffin is an athletic two-way player who plays inside but can operate with the ball in open space. He can put it on the floor and get to the basket and fight through traps and when the paint is clogged. Also a physical defender and clean up player in transition who outworks his opponents.</p> <p><b>(F) Akoy Mangol, 6’7, G/F, 2020, North Kansas City, Carroll GoLive</b></p> <p>Mangol is among the Kansas City area’s most underrated prospects and despite a thin frame, is capable of playing inside-out basketball. He is excellent in transition, runs the floor well and has a smooth handle and an emerging outside shot. He has some bounce around the basket and threw down several dunks throughout the weekend in Kansas City.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p><b>35 — Eric Northweather, PF/C, 2020, Mid-Mo Elite</b></p> <p>A bouncy big man with some hops and a good feel for the game. Makes smart passes on offense, can score around the basket off drop offs and offensive boards and can even step out and shoot the 3. Defensively, he brings good length to the floor and challenges opponents in the lane.</p> <p><b>24 — Garrett Simmerman, 6’8, F, 2020, New Covenant, Missouri Flight</b></p> <p>Simmerman is among southwest Missouri’s most underrated players bringing good size, length and toughness to the court. He has a long, rangy frame, some bounce and has good fundamentals at the defensive end of the court. He works hard to gain position against opposing post players and challenges shots well. Simmerman has a developing offensive skill set and shows good form on an emerging outside shot.</p>