Union County: Best Playmakers

<p>Union County is arguably the top county in the state. They feature powerhouse programs that are always in contention for the TOC title. In our recent ranking mentioning the top guards, we highlighted the best talent at the position. Players like [player_tooltip player_id="850498" first="Jonathan" last="Kuminga"], Corey Floyd, [player_tooltip player_id="850752" first="Simeon" last="Wilcher"], and [player_tooltip player_id="787655" first="Jayden" last="Pierre"] could be mentioned on every list. Here, we will take a look at a new group of playmakers in the county.</p> <p><b>Logan Howland (2022) | Westfield</b></p> <p>Westfield has been led by [player_tooltip player_id="896680" first="Griffin" last="Rooney"] over the last two years but Howland showed this season that he will be an impact performer moving forward. He is a double-double threat every time he steps on the floor because of his rebounding prowess on both ends. Howland is an agile forward that can step out and guard along the perimeter if need be.</p> <p><b>Amari Thompson (2021) | Rahway</b></p> <p>Thompson was part of a two-headed monster for Rahway. Along with [player_tooltip player_id="900316" first="Ernest" last="Carter"], Thompson provided a threat on both ends. He led the team in steals and knew how to turn defense into quick offense. Thompson led Rahway in scoring with 14.4 points per game. He is a quick guard with or without the ball and knows how to lead a fast break.</p> <p><b>Josh Jackson (2021) | Dayton</b></p> <p>Jackson put up impressive numbers for Dayton this season. He proved to be a scoring threat from all three levels on the floor. He knocked down 20 three’s but thrived at getting to the basket and scoring with contact. He led the team in free throws made. Jackson is strong with the ball in his hands and knows how to make the correct play.</p> <p><b>Michael Pirone (2023) | Oratory</b></p> <p>Pirone had himself a nice campaign in his first high school season. Oratory seems to have their next star and that will show even more in his sophomore year. He established himself as a capable shooter and strong finisher down low.</p> <p><b>Arjun Petgrave (2021) | Cranford</b></p> <p>When Cranford needed a big play, they knew who to turn to this season. Petgrave proved to be a player with strong hands and quick feet. His versatility was extremely important for Cranford. He knocked down 21 three’s during the year and led the team in free throw shooting.</p> <p><b>Jaylan Hodge (2023) | Linden</b></p> <p>Hodge is going to be one of the top players in the county very soon. He passed the eye test with flying colors. When you watch him play, it is hard to ignore his raw ability at such a young age. The effort and motor are there too. He does not give up on any play and is always moving.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>