Rock N Ball: Steve’s 2022 First Half Standouts
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We look to recap some of the best players in the 2022 class that have made an impact in the Rock N Ball Winter League so far. Kyle Thomas Kyle Thomas 6'8" | C St. Joesph | 2022 State…
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Continue ReadingWe look to recap some of the best players in the 2022 class that have made an impact in the Rock N Ball Winter League so far.
Kyle Thomas Kyle Thomas 6'8" | C St. Joesph | 2022 State #183 Nation IL (St. Joseph)
It is very rare to be surprised by a top three player in his class, but Kyle has made a huge leap from his sophomore year. He is becoming the prospect many thought he could be. Thomas is very athletic and mobile at 6’9”. He’s added muscle and has improved on his shot. He has extended his range from 15 feet to the three point line. Kyle’s defense has improved as well as he does a better job at rebounding out of his area and he has shown better timing on blocking shots. A serious high major college player in the works.
Xavier Lewis Xavier Lewis 6'7" | PF Tf South | 2022 State IL (TF South)
Lewis has continued to play well in the winter league. He can change the game on both sides of the ball when he is on the court. As a combo forward Xavier makes plays from both elbow spots and can put the ball on the ground with straight line attacks. Lewis uses his athleticism very well as he rebounds at a high rate on offense and defense. His major draw is how quick he is off his feet when attempting to block shots. Xavier is one to continue to track as he can be a help to any college program.
Robbie Avila Robbie Avila 6'9" | PF Oak Forest | 2022 State #225 Nation IL (Oak Forest)
Robbie is a treat watch. Highly skilled big man who has the passing tools of a guard. Avila can work down low or on the perimeter. He does a good job at drawing attention being able to score in various ways. Robbie has good footwork that makes it easy for his teammates to look for him in the post when his team needs a score. Avila has gotten attention from many mid to high major colleges.
AJ Casey AJ Casey 6'8" | PF Whitney Young | 2022 State #55 Nation IL (Whitney Young)
AJ continues to get better as he plays with a ton of confidence. Casey has been consistent in his play. Mixing up ways to score from the low post to knocking down shots. Casey’s athleticism allows him to play above the rim at times and a several instances he has caught a body. As the top player in his class Casey is making a statement at Rock N Ball that most are not even close to him.
Nick Martinelli Nick Martinelli 6'6" | SF Glenbrook South | 2022 State #235 Nation IL (Glenbrook South)
Martinelli only played a handful of games but his contribution to his team was huge. Nick is a shifty forward who can score around the rim with either hand. His good footwork and mobility keeps defenses guessing. He has a nice feel for setting up teammates. On defense he has a nose for the ball and often ends up in the area of missed shots. Martinelli should see a major bump when the next rankings are released. Mid-major schools should be all over this kid.
Jaylen Drane Jaylen Drane 6'2" | PG Simeon | 2022 State IL (Simeon)
Drane is an instrumental part of his team’s success. He brings a tough mental approach to every game. Jaylen can lock up guards on defense and turn those into flashy dimes or creative finishes for himself. JRock is another Chicago Simeon guard who has the ball on the string. He has shown he can score from all three levels and his ability to get teammates involved is very underrated. Drane’s biggest asset in the winter league is being able to stand out in what is a deep roster of talented guards