Breakdown Sports Fall League: Top Sleepers (Week 4)
The Breakdown Sports Fall League wrapped up with its fourth and final week of play at Hopkins High School. Many of the state’s top prospects were in attendance, but there were a handful of sleeper prospects who stood out. Here…
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Continue ReadingThe Breakdown Sports Fall League wrapped up with its fourth and final week of play at Hopkins High School. Many of the state’s top prospects were in attendance, but there were a handful of sleeper prospects who stood out. Here are seven under-the-radar players who are worthy of some college attention for the upcoming season.
Winston Knox (5’11 2020 PG, Wayzata)- Winston didn’t see the floor much last season, but looks ready to make an impact on a youthful Wayzata squad this year. He has a play-style very similar to his teammate Kody Williams, in that he is a stocky guard with elite quickness. He showcased that agility against Prior Lake, getting to the rim at will for crafty finishes. He has the ability to bring the ball up for this team, and excelled as a distributor when penetrating with the ball. Time and time again he was finding the open teammate off of kick-out passes leading to a lot of open looks for his team.
Marcus Owens (6’5 2021 W, Minnetonka)- Marcus is another player who didn’t see the floor very much on varsity last season, but has the length and skill-set to be a big contributor as a junior. A lanky and agile player on the wing, Marcus repeatedly blocked and challenged shots at the rim against Mankato East. He showed off good timing on his jumps that allowed him to avoid fouling and erase what would have otherwise been good chances around the rim. Marcus also contributed with his finishing around the rim, and is capable of shooting from beyond the arc. Very intriguing prospect in the 2021 class.
Deontez Ross (6′ 2022 G, St. Louis Park)- Another stocky point guard, Deontez is built like a running-back, and uses that size to his advantage when attacking the basket. His broad shoulders allowed him to shield off defenders around the rim, and he has long arms so he could outstretch and finish at the basket. Deontez is also a scrappy defender, and proved against Patrick Henry that he isn’t afraid to back down to any opponent. Ross is a promising young talent in the 2022 class, who will see his role increase this year as a sophomore.
Ethan Rens (6’6 2020 F, Champlin Park)- One player who really impressed for Champlin Park in their thrashing of East Ridge was senior Ethan Rens. Like most players on this list, Ethan didn’t have a huge role last year, but could step into a starting spot for Champlin Park as a senior. He has length, some bounce around the rim, and most impressive was his ability to step outside and knock down deep threes with a confident stroke. There aren’t many players who will be able to match up with that athleticism for his size, and the shooting touch makes him a dangerous match-up.
Jordan Jones (5’8 2020 PG, Columbia Heights)- There may not be another player in the state who’s better at 5’8 than Jordan Jones. Jordan was absolutely electric with the ball in his hands for Columbia Heights, and used that quickness and flair on the ball to attack the basket and score against Holy Angels. Jordan also looked the part of a guard who can catch fire from beyond the arc, and has the confidence that allows him to take over a game offensively. Despite being a dangerous scorer, Jordan still possesses the passing vision that makes him a dangerous point guard. Averaged 14 points and 2.9 assists last year, and should be one of the best players in the Tri-Metro this season.
Glentrell Carter (6’1 2020 G, Patrick Henry)- Glentrell is one of the scrappiest guards in the state, and he proved that with his defensive effort against St. Louis Park. He was constantly pressuring the ball and never stopped communicating to his team, which led to him finishing with 3-4 steals at the final buzzer. With that defense, there’s always the treat of offense, and Glentrell was able to make the most of his opportunities with strong attacks to the rim. He isn’t afraid of contact, and is willing to compete every time he steps on the floor.
Jared Walter (6’3 2020 SF, Champlin Park)- Jared can be found just outside the top-100 in our 2020 rankings, and he was able to make an impact in a big fall league win over East Ridge. He is a physical presence for a team with a lot of size all over the floor, and he is able to bang in the post while also stepping outside to knock down threes. Jared did most of his damage from beyond the arc in this particular game against East Ridge. Walter is also a very intelligent player who rarely makes mistakes with the ball. He won’t be a big numbers kinda guy, but he’s someone that a coach can rely on to deliver consistent performances.