CIF-SS 2021 Versatile Players to Watch
The CIF Southern Section is filled with versatile players who can provide more than what is expected out of them. Many talents are capable of playing multiple positions or can take on an array of assignments on both ends of…
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Continue ReadingThe CIF Southern Section is filled with versatile players who can provide more than what is expected out of them. Many talents are capable of playing multiple positions or can take on an array of assignments on both ends of the floor. These four 2021 players fit the profile on being a versatile talent for their respective teams.
Justin Rochelin — Heritage Christian
Justin Rochelin’s stock is growing and growing, but the guard’s prowess as a versatile player deserves more recognition. He can score and take on opposing guards. However, his work is also showcased over on defense. He is like a magnet to the ball and has a simplistic focus on creating turnovers by any means. He can jump into passing lanes or strip the ball away from an opponent making a drive to the paint. The 6’5” guard plays with the mindset of like a safety in football where he looks to have an influence anywhere on the court; he has had great success with this playstyle. Rebounding is also a growing strength of his, which adds to his impressive all-around play.
Rochelin’s instrumental impact across the board bolstered the Warriors’ play on both sides of the floor over the 2019–2020 season.
Jack Kresich — Loyola
Jack Kresich is a talent who can take on the responsibilities as both a guard and a forward. The 6’7 talent is a double-digit scorer who opens up the playbook when on the ball, from taking it to the basket after a couple of dribbles to his poised spot-up shooting. His versatility on offense even extends to his post game, which he often goes to after spotting a potential mismatch. As a high IQ talent, Kresich has this same versatility over on defense as well. He can defend in the post and has a keen awareness on cutting off possible off-ball runs from an opponent inside.
An improved senior season can raise his stock even further.
Jake Stryker — Canyon
Jake Stryker found a good role in Canyon as being a menace for opposing offenses. He seemed to consistently aim to produce quality defensive shifts and make any kind of impact, such as by intercepting passes or applying ball pressure on the opposing ball-handler. The 6’4” talent strives to poke passes away to win possession back, but he must be careful to not foul and not be overly aggressive to then provide the opponent with a wide-open driving line to the basket. Stryker also adds to his versatile play by hauling in rebounds as well.
He fit in just well on an improving defensive side and look for him to continue to find different ways to disrupt the flow of opposing offenses next season.
Sam Klaasen — Agoura
Sam Klaasen was the second-leading scorer on the Agoura Chargers last season with an 11.1 average — a figure which is bound to improve next season. Klaasen provides quick offense as a scorer. He has a swift build up on his shot that allows him to get off shot attempts in tight space. He is not a high-volume shooter but rather just takes what is given. He is also comfortable on the ball and is capable of handling pressure from opponent’s traps on the court. The junior was a competent rebounder for a guard with a moderate 3.4 average.