Stockrisers: Class of 2023
The 2019-20 season has come and gone, and each year we see different players rise up and take on expanded roles for their respective teams. Sometimes freshmen are able to step in right away and make a big impact. Older…
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Continue ReadingThe 2019-20 season has come and gone, and each year we see different players rise up and take on expanded roles for their respective teams. Sometimes freshmen are able to step in right away and make a big impact. Older players take on a bigger role.
For the class of 2023, they got their first taste of high school basketball. Now that they know what to expect, they have a better sense of what role they could fill. Here’s a look at some of incoming sophomores that I’ve been able to see who could take another leap next season.
1. Darius Carr – St Bernard
Carr has a bright future ahead of him; he made an impact immediately for the Vikings as a freshman. He’s a good playmaker in the half court who looks to get his teammates involved with easy shot opportunities. Can score when the team needs him to. He’s quick off the dribble and finishes at the rim. Can shoot from the outside. Runs the floor well on the break.
2. Kory Blunt – Birmingham
When I first saw Blunt play, it was over the summer in a showcase event. He showed off a nice ability to score and has all the makings of being a solid wing scorer at the high school level. He can put the ball on the floor and attack the rim. Once he’s at the rim, he can finish strong. Sees the floor well in transition whether it’s making the pass to a teammate or taking it himself all the way to the basket.
3 Blake Yamada – Rolling Hills Prep
Yamada is a playmaker first and foremost. He’s always lookin.g to get his teammates involved in the offense. He’s also a very good shooter from three-point range; can’t be left open. He’s not afraid to take the shot when it presents itself. He has the makings to be an effective guard at the high school level for the next couple of years.
4. T.J. Waters – Valley Christian
I first saw Waters play in this season’s CIF playoffs. He stood out the most for his defensive ability against a very good Heritage Christian team. He’s an overall tough player who doesn’t back down on the defensive end. He reads the passing lanes well and can pick off passes to start a break. Offensively, he attacks the rim; isn’t afraid of shot blockers.