Underrated 2021 Forwards in the DFW Area

<p>High school basketball coverage has become extremely comprehensive, but there will always be talented prospects that slip through the cracks. There are so many players to observe, especially in a big state like Texas. Some guys just don’t get the same amount of attention that others are afforded. It may not be fair, but it’s reality.</p> <p>I wanted to highlight a few 2021 forwards in the Dallas-Fort Worth area who have flown a bit under the radar. </p> <p><strong>Cale Martens - 2021 6’7’’ Power Forward Flower Mound Marcus HS</strong> - I saw Martens have a monster game vs. a talented Lewisville team this past season. He dominated the glass at both ends from start to finish. He was nearly unstoppable down low on offense as well. Martens has soft touch around the rim and does a great job of following his shots. His high motor is also noticeable. </p> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="779895" first="Chase" last="Ross"] - 2021 6’5’’ Shooting Guard/Small Forward Plano West HS</strong> - Ross currently sits at No. 60 in our <a href="https://prephoops.com/texas/rankings/2021-rankings/">2021 rankings</a>, but I believe he has the potential to significantly climb the rankings this year. He is an exceptional athlete with a lot of bounce. He can finish above the rim with power or with acrobatic layups. While his shot can be inconsistent at times, he can hurt you from all three levels when he gets hot. If he improves his shooting a bit, he has the potential to be a superstar. </p> <p><strong>Gannon Parker - 2021 6’7 Power Forward/Center Richardson HS</strong> - He is often overshadowed by Richardson’s dynamic tandem of guards, but Parker does a lot of the dirty work for his team, and he does it very well. He is a big bodied player in the post who isn’t afraid to throw his weight around in the paint. Parker is also a good passer from the interior. His ability to dominate the boards and make the most of his limited shot attempts is incredibly valuable. </p> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="887077" first="Alec" last="Zambie"] - 2021 6’5’’ Small Forward/Power Forward John Paul II HS</strong> - Zambie is ranked just outside the top 100 in our rankings. The skilled forward will have the opportunity to improve his stock this year. He came off the bench for the Cardinals last season, but he will almost certainly be inserted into JPII’s starting lineup as a senior after the departures of <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="766973" first="Nate" last="Dominick"] </strong>and the Tot twins. He can knock down catch and shoot threes and defends numerous positions. I’m excited to see what he can do with an increased role. </p> <p><strong>Gabe Collins - 2021 6’5’’ Shooting Guard/Small Forward Prestonwood Christian Academy</strong> - Collins is an excellent three-point shooter from the catch. He is particularly effective from the corners. His off-ball movement is solid too. He is deceptively athletic in the open court and loves to throw it down on the break. Additionally, he crashes the glass and plays tough defense in the interior and on the perimeter. Prestonwood has a chance to be dangerous next season with the majority of their team returning. </p>