Most Intriguing Columbus City League Junior Guards

<p>The Columbus City League class of 2022 is really talented and loaded with intriguing players at the guard position. Most junior guards are coming into this season as starters on their teams and will be matched up head-to-head which will make for some interesting games. Players are intriguing for different reasons, with each player being asked to do different things. Headed into the shortened season, these players will be crucial for their teams success. <br /> <strong style="font-size: 1rem; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;"><br /> Devonte Curry- Briggs:</strong><span style="font-size: 1rem; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;"> Curry is the consummate point guard, he is able to set up the offense and run it as the typical coach on the floor. He understands his floor duties and plays at a pace that his coach loves. Curry is a reliable shooter than opposing defenses cannot leave open, with a smooth looking shot and good form on his jumper. On defense, Curry plays with intensity while using his high basketball IQ and being able to defend without fouling. He also plays passing lanes very well, allowing him get steals and easy transition buckets. What intrigues this writer about Curry is the role he will have this season with the emergence of Javian Williams. Williams was not able to play due to grade issues but the scoring machine will be there this season and it will be up to Devonte Curry to get him the ball in favorable positions. If Curry can ingratiate the young man Williams into the Briggs offense then the Bruins will be able to pull off some big wins in the Columbus City League south. </span></p> <p><strong>Ricky Taylor- Walnut Ridge:</strong> Taylor had an impressive summer, including some showings where he really put his game on the forefront and proved he could be a major player in the Columbus City League south. His long arms allow him to be a gem on defense, playing physical and showing an understanding of what offenses want to do against him. Offensively, Taylor showed real potential, attacking the basket with power and anger which fits right in with the way the Scots play basketball. Taylor has good enough handles to take the pressure off the other guards and passes well enough to get the ball to his big men for easy buckets. It will be intriguing to see the step Taylor takes this season, after not playing much varsity ball last year. He has the talent and the make-up to be a very effective player if he can take that next leap this upcoming season. </p> <p><strong>Aamir Carter- Walnut Ridge:</strong> The transfer from Beechcroft could not have asked for a better program to walk into because both the Cougars and Scots have similar styles of games. Carter comes from a physical, tough-minded program and steps into another one. Carter can shoot the ball very well which gives Walnut Ridge a guy that can stretch the floor and someone who can finish at the rim. This young man is a really good rebounder and can push the ball himself or throw a picture perfect outlet pass. He can defend most players on the court as well because he is taller than most guard/wing players in the Columbus City League. How he will fit in the Scot offense is what intrigues this writer the most, he is a natural plug and play kind of player that can start at any school in the Columbus City League. But with an already established team coming back, can Carter find his way into the offense without disrupting the flow of it? He can, but it remains to be seen. </p> <p><strong>Tabree Beacham- Northland:</strong> With a breakout summer under his belt, Beacham looks to continue his good play into this upcoming season. This young man is more athletic than spectators think and can get to the basket consistently without being lightning quick. He has worked on his jump-shot relentlessly this summer and it showed with his ability to consistently knock down deep mid-range shots. On defense, Beacham is tough minded, sound and does not overplay his responsibilities. The intriguing thing with Beacham is figuring out his role with this Viking team. An experienced team with a couple of flat out studs around him, it will be interesting to see how he will expand his game this season. If Beachem can find his role and embrace it early, then the Vikings will find themselves in the hunt for the Columbus City League north title. </p>