Flyin’ to the Hoop Top 2021 Performers

<p>Flyin' to the Hoop allows us to see some of the best prospects not just in the state of Ohio, but in the country. This past weekend, some of the top players took the court and impressed against high level competition. Today, we look at the top juniors from this past weekend's nationally ranked event.</p> <p><strong>Montev Ware</strong> (Woodward)- On a day when the Bulldogs struggled against a high level Walnut Ridge team, Ware impressed where Paul McMillan struggled a bit. On the offensive end, he did a nice job of breaking down the defense and getting in the paint. He was explosive off the dribble drive and provided a spark for Woodward where McMillan struggled.</p> <p><strong>Jalin Billingsley</strong> (Lutheran East)- Showed us versatility making plays on the perimeter and the paint. Great perimeter defender for his size as he used his size coupled with active hands to prevent easy playmaking opportunities. Looked to settle for outside shots more in this game, but was forced to since Alter ran a 2-3 zone against him.</p> <p><strong>Casey George</strong> (Pickerington North)- One of the hardest working individuals on display during Saturday’s action. Has great court awareness and vision, especially against pressure. Did a really nice job of finding teammates off screens. Brought physicality to the dribble drive as he initiated contact against the opposing defense.</p> <p><strong>Elijah Hawk</strong> (Pickerington North)- Great interior presence off the bench. Doesn’t score a ton of points, but did the gritty things. Offensively moved around and spaced out while setting screens and creating pick and roll opportunities.</p> <p><strong>Makail Cottingham</strong> (Garfield Heights)- Found the paint with his ability to attack off the perimeter. Utilized drive-and-kick opportunities for teammates and created assist opportunities for himself as a result. Very talented guard prospect that picked up an offer from Urbana University after this weekend.</p> <p><strong>Malaki Branham</strong> (St. Vincent-St. Mary)- Best scorer throughout the weekend. Gets up and down the floor and excelled in the fast break situations. Lethal at the rim, whether it be layups or put back dunks. Showed off his ability to knock down shots at the midrange level.</p> <p><strong>Garner Wallace</strong> (Pickerington Central)- Excelled getting the ball out in transition. His hustle overall was incredible as he rebounded at a high level, but most importantly he defended MarJon Beauchamp very well and took away many opportunities for him to score in the paint.</p> <p><strong>Ryan Suever</strong> (Ottoville)- Long player. Protects the basketball on rebounds. Keeps the ball in triple threat position and does not allow opponents to contest. Even with his size, impressed with his scoring from multiple levels. Playmaker on both ends of the floor.</p>