CIF-SS Under-the-Radar 2022 Defenders to Watch

The CIF-SS rank has a multitude of all-around superb defenders. From stout on-ball defenders to shot blockers, the section has an array of under-the-radar players in this area of the game. These four 2022 defenders are surely ones to watch for next season.

Kristian Jemerson Kristian Jemerson 6'4" | SF Fairmont Prep | 2022 State CA-S — Fairmont Prep

Kristian Jemerson Kristian Jemerson 6'4" | SF Fairmont Prep | 2022 State CA-S is growing as an offensive talent, but the potential is also there on defense. The Fairmont Prep guard covers a good amount of space on the floor. He is quick to jump in for steals and can clog up passing lanes within the paint. He wound up averaging 1.2 steals per game this past season. He is simply a magnet with creating turnovers -- an area of his game which he is excelling at. His work on isolation situations will be an aspect of his game to watch next season. But as mentioned, the talent is there for him to grow and develop on the defensive end. 

Xavier Thompson — Maranatha

Maranatha has several under-the-radar talents, including guard Xavier Thompson. He is someone who reads offenses well as he often takes advantage by intercepting passes or jumping in to corral loose balls. He is also very quick and can switch from one side of the floor to the other with ease, which helps when tracking opponents who are susceptible to cutting runs inside. Defensive positioning is one area of his game which he must continue to develop, but it currently does not pose much of a grand concern.

Thompson is growing as a 3-point shooter, but his work on defense is beginning to catch on as well.

Powel Mousaian — Village Christian

Powel Mousaian could have been added as an under-the-radar scorer or playmaker, but his defensive work is one that is most noteworthy of attention. Mousaian is developing as a defender. He is active in both corralling defensive rebounds and steals. He certainly has the stamina to be active and ready for any given defensive assignment. His isolation defending within the perimeter is an area of his game which he must work on, especially when tasked to defend elusive guards. Being a more physical and assertive defender can elevate his efficiency in such situations. Still, he should certainly show great improvement in this component of his play next season. 

As mentioned, Mousaian is also a game-changer as a scorer and playmaker, so look for him to continue to develop in these areas of his game as well. 

Jalen Rutledge — La Mirada

Jalen Rutledge grew into his own as both a rebounder and defender for La Mirada. He does a good job of boxing out within the paint to win rebound battles down low. He recognizes the vast importance of positioning and setting up to haul in board after board, which is why he had several double-digit rebound performances. He finished the campaign averaging a fair 6.5 rebounds per game. The 6’6 talent is also not afraid of moving out of the restricted area to defend against outside shooters.

Rutledge can soon be an efficient player on the defensive end and one that will cause trouble for opposing low post scorers. The talent is there for him to continue to grow here.