CIAC Preview – West Haven High School

West Haven High School will have the biggest home-court advantage in the state, even without fans. Their court is one of the best, if not the best, I’ve seen, ever. Coach Sullivan and his staff exceeded expectations last season and look to take a bigger step this season. They have a strong senior core which includes an All-State backcourt and key transfers.

Malcolm Duncanson Malcolm Duncanson 6'1" | PG West Haven | 2021 State NLG , 6’0″ PG, 2021 – 1 of 2 returning All-State players, Malcolm will pick up where he left off last season. Immediately I noticed Malcolm has been in the weight room during the delayed start. He looked physically advanced and confident on the basketball court. As usual, he was able to get downhill and get into the lane off of dribble penetration. Throughout the day he effortlessly made the right pass and served as a complete facilitator. His confidence seemed to be on a different level, he was already in midseason form.

Eli Blackwell Eli Blackwell 5'9" | PG Notre Dame | 2022 State NLG , 5’8″ PG, 2021 – The Amistad School transfer will be an immediate impact player after being named to the All-State team last season. He’s a quick aggressive point guard with a high basketball IQ. He uses his speed to get to his spots and create from himself as well as others. Eli is capable of attacking the paint or beating defenders with his consistent jump shot. Although he’s a smaller guard he rarely gets his shot block, finishing at a high level with good touch.

Kairon Hooks, 6’4″ W, 2021 – Kairon is an exceptional shooter with length and athleticism to complement his overall game. In transition, he’s able to get downhill and explode to the rim. He will also be an immediate impact transfer after playing with Notre Dame-West Haven last season.

Javaun Calhoun, 6’6″ F, 2022 – Javaun is a tall wiry prospect with a ton of upside. He has very long arms which will aid his ability to block shots and protect the paint. Coach Sullivan and his staff are in the process of exploring his versatility while developing him into a wing. 

Manny Belcher, 6’1″ WG, 2022 –  Manny will take the pressure off of Malcolm and Eli this season in the backcourt. He has a fluid stroke from the perimeter and good touch on his runner. Manny has the potential to be a threat in transition and benefit from the attention his teammates will get this season.