CIF Southern Section Divisional Preview: Division 3A Players to Watch (Part II)
With the the 2019-20 boys basketball season ready to kick off next week, we’ll be rolling out some divisional previews taking a look at some of the top teams and players. In this piece, we breakdown some players to watch…
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Continue ReadingWith the the 2019-20 boys basketball season ready to kick off next week, we’ll be rolling out some divisional previews taking a look at some of the top teams and players. In this piece, we breakdown some players to watch in Division 3A based on research combined with what we’ve seen in person this fall.
Division 3A Players to Watch (Part II)
Cory Knutson, Yorba Linda
The 6-foot-6 forward might be undersized for the center position, but he’s as physical as they come, making him a consistent double-double threat.
Gavin Kroll, Patriot
The 6-foot-5 wing averaged 23.1 points and 12.5 rebounds per game last season in leading the Warriors to a 23-8 overall record. Kroll has the ability to score inside and out and will head to Life Pacific University after his senior season.
Matt Lee, Village Christian
Lee has a deep bag of offensive moves in his arsenal. He’s more of a scoring guard than a true point, but the 6-footer can knock down perimeter jumpers consistently off of a rhythm dribble. Lee uses his shiftiness to get by defenders and into the paint where he can absorb and finish through contact.
Gavin Kroll averaged better than 23 points and 12 rebounds as a junior last season.Melian Martinez, Valley Christian
The 6-foot-8 sophomore is a new addition to the Defenders and his impact will be felt on the defensive end. He has the length to match his height and good timing and instincts as a shot blocker.
Malvin Payero, Valley Christian
The 6-foot point guard is one of the better all-around players in this division. Payero is a big time on-ball defender who disrupts passing lanes with his quick hands. The senior is an adept transition finisher and is a willing passer in drive and kick situations.
Jermaine Rogers II, Ayala
Rogers had a big offseason on the camp circuit, showing his shooting ability with range. The 6-foot-1 sophomore can create for himself or others off the bounce and has a quick first step that allows him to get into the paint and finish or draw defenders and kick to teammates.
Daniel Rouzan, Eisenhower
Rouzan is a skilled true post player who can finish with either hand around the basket. A 6-feet-8 with soft hands and sound footwork, the junior is a legitimate back to the basket scoring threat.
T.J. Waters, Valley Christian
Only a freshman, Waters has the toughness and basketball IQ to make an immediate impact at the varsity level. The 5-foot-7 point guard is lightning quick with the ball in his hands and finishes around the basket better than his size leads on.
Mac West III, Lawndale
West was another local player to break out in various showcase events over the spring, summer and fall. The 6-foot-3 wing is a consistent shooter with his feet set, but can also attack poor closeouts and finish in the painted area.