Top 250 Expo: 2021 First Team
If it’s possible to pull out any big-picture takeaways from the Top 250 Expo, it’s that the junior class has unmatched depth. That fact is shown in full with our 2021 first-team, a ballot that features three prospects inside the…
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Continue ReadingIf it’s possible to pull out any big-picture takeaways from the Top 250 Expo, it’s that the junior class has unmatched depth. That fact is shown in full with our 2021 first-team, a ballot that features three prospects inside the top-11.
Cade Meyer – Monroe: Meyer was bigger yesterday. He was bigger in a way that made it difficult for me to reach up and snap a picture of him. But he was also bigger by way of rankings. Meyer made back-to-back stock explosions this summer, climbing to the number two spot in the 2021 class. So, when he came to the gym today, his presence was a bigger deal than it would’ve been just two months ago.
On Sunday, Meyer dunked as many times as he attempted a layup or mid-range shot. His jumper was sound fundamentally and his release had more arm extension and flick. In short, everything yesterday pointed towards a scarier, more imposing version of an already scary and imposing forward.
If he wasn’t already an obvious high-major player, it’s now an undebatable fact.
Zac Johnson – River Falls: Numerous buckets fed Johnson’s confidence, as the microwave heated up to levels deserving of a spot on the 2021 first-team.
Johnson is a bona fide shot-hunter, which was evident in his offensive output throughout the Expo. In addition to constant scoring, Johnson’s three-point shot had a lightning-quick trigger that helped him release off the dribble and in tight spots. He has grown physically, too, as he looked more powerful attacking the cup and willing to take on contact.
Brandin Podziemski – Saint John’s NW Military Academy: Yesterday, Podziemski played with more experience and swagger than ever. He went at every possession with an intent to score. Every time he touched the ball he assessed his options like a quarterback in the pocket.
Whether it was when he approached 20 points in the first half of his first game or when he called off his coaches substitution only to hit a bucket in the ensuing possessions, Podziemski had a different confidence yesterday. And it made him a better player.
John Lovelace – Wauwatosa East: It wasn’t long ago that Lovelace was unranked, and in just a few months he has climbed into the 30s in our 2021 rankings. Yesterday was likely a springboard for another boost in stock.
The guard is stuck in a forward’s body, which is the best descriptor I can use for his frame. But in a lot of ways, that has become one of his best traits. His length and bounce have made for some highlight-reel dunks and blocks in these past few months, though he has killed teams with his outside shot. Yesterday he got into a groove from range, shooting absurdly consistent numbers and stringing together impressive stretches from the three-point line.
Grant Asman – Kimberly: The 6’7” power-forward is filling out his frame and massive potential — that should start to scare teams. Asman played efficiently from around the arc once again, seeming coordinated as a ball-handler and outside shooter. His biggest strides were made within the blocks, though. Rebounding seemed to come naturally with his size, and he’s started using his body to create space and leverage.
It’s difficult not to see a silver lining or at least some improvements in his game.