Leading Returning Scorers: Class 3A
As part of our high school season preview coverage, we’re taking a look at some of the top returning players in each class. In this article, we’re taking a look at the top ten returning scorers in Class 3A. …
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Continue ReadingAs part of our high school season preview coverage, we’re taking a look at some of the top returning players in each class. In this article, we’re taking a look at the top ten returning scorers in Class 3A.
Bowen Born
1.) Bowen Born, Norwalk (27.8 points per game)
Perhaps the best high school player in the state, the incredibly skilled and shifty lefty will pace a Norwalk team that enters the season ranked #1 by us after finishing runner-up last season. He’s got it all on the offensive end – the ability to shoot from deep, get to the rim and finish, and a beautiful floater game. He’ll end up ranking within the top 15 all-time in scoring, and with a big season, could crack the top 10.
2.) Karson Sharar, Iowa Falls-Alden (24.1 points per game)
The 6-2 off-guard played in just seven games last year due to injuries, but he has cemented himself as one of the state’s premier scorers. With “in the gym” range and a silky smooth jumper, he’s one of just a handful of players in the 2021 class who currently holds a Division I offer (Drake).
Keaton Kutcher
3.) Keaton Kutcher, Mount Vernon (20.5 points per game)
Another player in that 2021 class with an offer to his name (Western Illinois), Kutcher burst onto the scene as a freshman when he went 10-13 from deep in a game against Anamosa. That scoring onslaught has continued, and his 73 made 3s last year are second among returnees in 3A (Born, 79).
4.) Easton Darling, Winterset (20.2 points per game)
Another talented lefty scoring guard, Darling led the Huskies to the state semifinals last year, and will be the focal point of one of 3A’s best teams this year. His scoring numbers could skyrocket if he can improve his perimeter shooting this season (25.6% from 3 last year). He’s at his best when he’s using his quickness to play downhill.
5.) Jake Hull, Grinnell (20.1 points per game)
One of the best grassroots scorers in the state over the last few years, Hull put it together for the Tigers last year, averaging north of 20 a game with 47-46-76 shooting splits. He also led Grinnell in rebounding. Look for him to pace what should be an improved group in the Little Hawkeye.
Kieren Nichols (Photo credit: journalexpress.net)
6.) Kieren Nichols, Knoxville (19.8 points per game)
A 6-0 junior point guard, Nichols showed an impressive shooting stroke last year, knocking down 41.1% of his 3s on the season, in addition to leading the Panthers in assists. With their next three scorers from last year graduated, look for Nichols to get up into the 25 point a game range this winter.
7.) Goanar Biliew, Denison-Schleswig (18.2 points per game)
One of the biggest surprises last year was Biliew and the Monarchs, who finished just shy of the state tournament. You’ll also find this intriguing 6-8 big man on the top 10 returning rebounders list, as he averaged an impressive 18.2 points, 10.8 rebounds double-double last year, with 74 blocks and 68.0 FG% to boot. He was dominant last year, and will be again this year for a D-S team that looks like one of the best in 3A.
Alex Van Kalsbeek
8.) Alex Van Kalsbeek, MOC-Floyd Valley (17.8 points per game)
Van Kalsbeek was one of the most productive players in the state over the spring and summer with South Dakota Attack, as the 6-7 big man showcased impressive athleticism and skill around the rim, backing up his 71.4 FG% from last year. A versatile big man with the ability to occasionally stretch out and knock down shots, he’s going to have a huge year for the Dutchmen.
9.) Jake Schockemoehl, Dubuque Wahlert (17.6 points per game)
One-third of what should be one of the best backcourts in 3A (Cael Schmitt, Isaac Ripley), Schockemoehl has a Division II offer from Truman State. He led the Golden Eagles in scoring and rebounding last year, and could see his numbers skyrocket with some improved efficiency (36-36-77 shooting splits last year). He’s capable of getting red hot and dropping 30+ on any given night.
10.) Logan Shetterly, Pella (17.3 points per game)
The 5-11 guard led a balanced attack for the Dutch which saw four players average in double figures. With two of those players graduated, we could see Shetterly eclipse 20 points a game this winter. Among returnees in 3A, only Bowen Born and Ballard’s Connor Drew attempted more free throws last season than Shetterly.