Top-140 most impactful in AIA: Just missed Part 2
The next in the ’Top-140 most impactful in AIA’ countdown, we look at the last players who just missed. Remember, these are not player rankings but how much they impact their team along with the talent they go against during…
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Continue ReadingThe next in the ’Top-140 most impactful in AIA’ countdown, we look at the last players who just missed.
Remember, these are not player rankings but how much they impact their team along with the talent they go against during the season.
We have already had a couple players move over to the prep world during this journey of the Top-140. I want to look at 16 more who should make an impact.
Here are the last eight that just missed for my Top-140 in AIA:
Jayson Hunt Jayson Hunt 6'7" | PF Paradise Honors | 2022 State AZ (Paradise Honors)
-The long lefty has improved his game every season and this just may be his breakout spot. He is athletic in the open court and his skill keeps progressing. Look for him to be one of team rebounders and shot blockers next to River Bell River Bell 6'5" | PF Paradise Honors | 2023 State AZ (who also should get some quality PT next season.)
Joseph Pompeo Joseph Pompeo 6'0" | PG Paradise Valley | 2022 State AZ (PV)
-The sharp shooter may just be the Trojans starting PG next season. He can sling it from deep and make plays for their stud forwards.
Reed Shuey Reed Shuey 6'5" | PF Gilbert | 2022 State AZ (Gilbert)
-One of the harder working inside players lives on the glass and should bring that much needed toughness and brute strength to help out the Tigers on another deep playoff run.
Rafe Canale Rafe Canale 6'0" | PG Sunrise Mountain | 2022 State AZ (Sunrise Mountain)
-A scoring PG may step in and take the lead role and fill some of the void that the seniors left. He can really score it and should compliment their senior forwards.
Noe Vargas Noe Vargas 6'2" | SF Rancho Solano Prep | 2022 State AZ (Rancho Solano Prep)
-A long wing defender transferred in from Shadow Mountain and played key minutes off the bench in their 2A State Chip. He will most likely score more with an expanded role next season.
Diego Mendoza Diego Mendoza 5'10" | PG Cienega | 2021 State AZ (Cienega)
-The heart and soul of the team now that Jason Elder Jason Elder 6'6" | SF Phhoenix Prep | 2022 State AZ has transferred. He is their team leader, scorer and facilitator. He will make a big impact in Tucson.
Oliver Hinder Oliver Hinder 6'8" | C Corona del Sol | 2023 State AZ (CDS)
-The big man seems to grow every 3 months. He may have a long ways to go but keeps showing you glimpses. The Aztecs staff are high on him and will anchor down their defense in a tough 6A next season.
Kevin Patton Jr Kevin Patton Jr 6'8" | SF Mountain Pointe | 2023 #130 Nation CA-S (Perry)
-Another huge upside player keeps growing as well. Up close to 6’6 and handling and shooting it better in the small sample size I saw. He unfortunately may have injured his wrist (a possible break) but if he can come back before the season starts (which he should) he may make a huge leap up in the East Valley for the Pumas.