10 Underrated Northwest Ohio Scorers
For what makes these prospects premier scorers, we will dive into that on an individual basis down the page. They’re “Underrated,” though because they don’t have a Division I offer and are currently not verbally committed to a college program.…
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Continue ReadingFor what makes these prospects premier scorers, we will dive into that on an individual basis down the page.
They’re “Underrated,” though because they don’t have a Division I offer and are currently not verbally committed to a college program.
Let’s get back to the scoring part now:
AJ Adams (2021) | 6-4 SF | Findlay
Adams, a prospect we believe will eventually receive a Division I offer, is an obvious choice for this article. We’re enamored with his mid-post ability where he displays power or skill moves based on the matchup. His ability to change speeds on crossovers is also impressive. Adams put up 17.0 points per game last season, a number that will grow if he hits 3-pointers more consistently.
Tony Delvaux (2020) | 6-2 SG | Whitmer
Delvaux’s compact body and shifty handle allow him to create space for high-percentage shots off the dribble. Routinely gets to his spot in the middle of the floor right in front of the free-throw line for a pull-up jumper. Plays with great pace. Delvaux can also finish through contact on layups.
TaVaz Lawler-Showers (2020) | 5-11 PG | Start
A transfer from the state of Michigan, Lawler-Showers impresses with his dynamic speed and handle. Very tough to contain in the open floor, a trait that will prove useful in the Toledo City League. Shoots it well from distance and off the dribble. Able to size-up opponents in one-on-one scenarios and create separation without a ball screen. Confident.
Brady Lichtenberg (2021) | 6-2 SG | Toledo St. John’s
Lichtenberg utilizes one of basketball’s most underrated maneuvers: the jab step. Creates separation quickly by jabbing one way and slashing the other. Plays with balance in traffic, often jump stopping and pivoting from there to score in the mid-range. Elite shooter with his feet set. Smooth side-to-side crossover.
Mason Loeffler (2020) | 6-3 SG | Evergreen
Loeffler has collegiate size and a terrific skill set as a scorer. Shoots it well from distance, which leads to eager close-outs from defenders. He can put the ball on the floor, though, taking advantage of those sprinting defenders. Effective straight-line-driver who can also juke side-to-side to get to the lane in traffic. Athletic finisher.
TJ Pugh (2021) | 6-5 SF | Shelby
Pugh keeps the defense honest with his passing ability, but his scoring is often the most pressing threat. Shows skill and power on spin moves and other creative gathers as a slasher. Displays touch on short-range finishes from any number of angles — fading away baseline, off-balanced heading towards the rim, etc. Patient in the paint.
Jamir Simpson (2020) | 6-5 PF | Lima Senior
Simpson starting tearing up the TRAC on day one last season, averaging 12.1 points per game in his first year in Northwest Ohio after spending underclassmen years at Pickerington Central. Frequently dominate around the elbow area as a rim-diver and face-up forward. Can string his jumper out to the 3-point line. Bouncy finisher with soft touch. His size is a handful in transition, too.
Caleb Smith (2020) | 6-4 SG | Start
Smith averaged 13.2 points at Toledo St. John’s last season and will now bring his talent to Start, his third high school in as many years. He’s very comfortable catching inside the arch and scoring on a one-dribble pull-up. Good use of the jab step. Shoots it well. Creates his own shots. Gets heated up quickly, too.
Tahj Staveskie (2020) | 6-0 PG | Sandusky
Staveskie occasionally creates immense separation with his handle and quickness. Very dynamic with the ball in his hands. He can also hit shots in the lane with a defender on his hip, namely a running floater. Consistent outside shooter. Puts a lot of pressure on the defense as a primary ball-handler.
Josh Thorbahn (2021) | 6-5 SG | Ottoville
Thorbahn may be known for his outside jumper but he’s a truly complete scorer. Able to burrow inside off the dribble with his strength. Often takes advantage of smaller guards by taking them to the block and scoring through contact. Underrated ball-handler who makes defenders regret reaching in with his crossover. Changes speeds.