Orlando Sleepers

Anthony Garcia May 28, 2020 @ 01:42 PM

contributed by Erik Young With Covid -19 robbing the class of 2021 of such an important time in a basketball player’s career, college coaches are relying on film now more than ever. These soon to be seniors are ready to test their metal against the top competition on the AAU circuit, and catch the eyes of college coaches. As our country slowly begins to return to normal with tournaments running in the Tampa area, these are some names to remember.   Michael McCalister (2021) | 6-4 combo forward | West Orange One of Orlando’s most improved players this season, McCalister led a young 17-12 West Orange team in points (17.1) and rebounds (10.2) per game. At a sturdy 6-4 this combo forward is quick enough to defend the perimeter and tough enough to defend the post. Mike was often given the task of defending the opposing teams largest player, giving up several inches. Shooting 56% from the field and a respectable 31% from three, Mike can take you outside or attack the rim for a big dunk. However, his midrange game is the area that stands out the most.   [player_tooltip player_id="714918" first="John" last="Latimer III"] (2021) | 6-1 guard | Apopka Sharing a majority of Apopka’s scoring load this past season with Florida Golf Coast commit Zach Anderson, Latimer was also Apopka’s primary ball handler. Wired to score (18.1 ppg) Latimer uses his quickness to glide to the basket finishing through contact. This 6-1 hard nosed guard was often tasked with guarding the opposing teams best player, a role that he thrived in. Sinking 39% of his threes, John has a well rounded offensive game. As he continues to improve his ability to create for others, the sky is the limit.   Elliot “EJ” Yorke (2021) | 5-11 guard | Windermere Playing in a backcourt with several Division I prospects, Yorke is often the forgotten member of the band. At around 6-0 Yorke led Windermere High in scoring at 19.4 points per night sinking 82 three pointers at 43%. EJ lives in the paint and can score from all over the court. A solid ball handler and defender, Yorke should be on the radar of schools from all levels this up and coming season.   [player_tooltip player_id="818704" first="Elijah" last="Hulsewe"] (2021) | 6-11 post | Windermere Prep “You can’t teach seven feet”. Well, almost. [player_tooltip player_id="818704" first="Elijah" last="Hulsewe"] is all of 6-11 and has been improving each time on the court. Averaging 11 points and 9 boards per night on state quarterfinalist Windermere Prep, Hulsewe does a good job of keeping the ball up high. He scores a majority going over his left shoulder using baby hooks, and is also a guy guards can dump it off to on the block for a big dunk. As he continues to improve his foot speed, more schools will come calling.   [player_tooltip player_id="953007" first="Omar" last="Figueroa"] (2021) | 5-11 guard | Orlando Christian Prep Playing on a team with so many college prospects, this six-foot guard is a bit of an unsung hero. On offense Omar loves to use the runners in the mid range but can also get to the basket for an acrobatic layup or hit the three (41 %). In the state semifinal Omar really put on a show going 3-8 from downtown finishing with 19 points. A member of Puerto Rico’s U-17 national team, this quick guard should be on a lot of college radars after the summertime.