Ohio’s Top 250 Expo Top Frontcourt Performers

<p>When watching post players and forwards play, I usually am looking for specific traits. Can a prospect play on the block only or can they extend their range? How do they defend against other posts? What about their motor? All 5 of the top forwards from the Top 250 Expo showed these traits and impressed over other prospects on display.</p> <p>Troy Scowden (2022) 6’7 Buckeye Valley</p> <p>Scowden was one of the younger players on display Saturday and made an impact on both ends of the floor. On the defensive end, he uses his feet to move side-to-side and even impressed using his body to play physical with his opponent. On the offensive end, he excelled in pick-and-pop situations although never was given an opportunity to show off his shooting touch. He possesses a nice ball-handling touch which makes him such a weapon.</p> <p>Nathaniel Paarlberg (2022) 6’5 Franklin</p> <p>Paarlberg impressed me with his offensive touch. A smooth lefty, he has a soft shooting touch and finished several layups in traffic. Also a proven rebounder, Paarlberg was difficult to defend and keep off the glass as he has such a high motor. Given what he showed at the expo, he will have an opportunity to make a difference at the varsity level for Franklin this upcoming season.</p> <p>Frank Waganfeald (2021) 6’8 Oregon Clay</p> <p>I really liked what I saw out of Waganfeald on Saturday. One of the tallest players on display, he has a nice arsenal of post moves he utilized all day. Specifically using a spin move and up-and-under, the Clay HS product has a very strong upper body which made things extremely difficult for defenders to keep him contained. With his size and skillset, I believe Frank will be a player worth watching this upcoming season as well as next year.</p> <p>Ben Westrick (2020) 6’7 Ottawa-Glandorf</p> <p>I specifically liked the hustle in Westrick as he moved up and down the floor extremely well for a post player. A strong power forward, he did a nice job making a difference other than scoring as he set ball screens which was rare in a showcase setting. A lengthy athlete, Westrick contests jump shots in the paint and played above the rim with several thunderous dunks during play.</p> <p>Brenton Walker (2021) 6’7 Canton McKinley</p> <p>The most physically imposing forward on display, Walker was my favorite frontcourt prospect to watch. Play after play he overpowered his defender backing them down on the block. Such a strong athlete, there was no one I saw that was able to contain him. In terms of offensive skillset, Walker had several dunks throughout the day. On the defensive end, he was an elite rim protector that blocked several shots as well. A low post force, he is without a doubt a difference maker for McKInley for the next 2 years.</p>