2021-22 Preview: Scholarship Sleepers
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Playing college basketball requires one of two things: an undeniable talent cache or an echoing passion for improvement that manifests game after game. The former is usually obvious; the latter requires a more detailed eye test. Below we look at…
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Continue ReadingPlaying college basketball requires one of two things: an undeniable talent cache or an echoing passion for improvement that manifests game after game. The former is usually obvious; the latter requires a more detailed eye test.
Below we look at those potential scholarship players, particularly Wisconsin’s gradual improvers and unsung prospects. These players are talented in their own right, but don’t have the same draw as the nationally recognized prospects.
Josiah Butler
Josiah
Butler
6'3" | CG
Fox Valley Lutheran | 2022
State
WI
– 2022
There’s a reason I’ve raved about Butler for the past two summers — he’s a bona fide bucket-getter. There are no major weaknesses in his offensive game — try to nitpick and it’s still difficult. When he isolates, he’s as technical as he is unpredictable. The jumper keeps improving, his instincts in the paint are only getting better, and his volume continues to increase. Dakota State and St. Cloud State offered, but more schools should extend that list.
Marshawn Robinson
Marshawn
Robinson
6'3" | SG
Waukesha South | 2022
State
WI
– 2022
Although his rankings may not show it, Robinson is up there as one of the most improved players in his class from start to finish. He came in as a freshman with no mold — he was athletic and played up a grade, but there wasn’t any real direction to his growth. Season by season, as scattered parts turned into a fully functional basketball machine, he’s developed into a scholarship-caliber two-way wing. His mid-range game has blossomed, and in the past few months, his ball-handling has followed suit. Defensively the narrative is the same: long-arms and great instincts make for a formidable opponent.
William Whorton
William
Whorton
6'8" | PF
Rufus King | 2023
State
WI
– 2023
Whorton is gifted with every desired basketball intangible. He’s 6’8”, has a fantastic wingspan, and shows instincts above the rim. Those features alone will woo scouts. He could be an effective forward as an underclassman in college, but that’s just his floor. He’s been in the same practices as his backcourt teammates on WPC, cultivating an isolation driving ability and a tight handle. Watch him become a versatile weapon on the perimeter with the right development.
Mason Prey
Mason
Prey
6'4" | CG
Newman Catholic | 2023
State
WI
– 2023
Prey knows his strengths and he knows the defense’s weaknesses — and he explodes when he’s in his sweet spot. His best showings feature a high dosage of 15-foot pull-ups and driving to the rim. His fervor for transition adds another nice quirk to throw at defenses. Essentially what you’re getting is a wing with fantastic offensive instinct and IQ. After two summers of consistent production and dominant summer performances, he’s set his value as a scholarship-level player.
A.J. Lieuwen
A.J.
Lieuwen
6'0" | CG
Bay Port | 2023
State
WI
– 2023
The gamer of the Midwest Collision this summer, Lieuwen spearheaded a hungry Team 1848 against a strong 16U field. Lieuwen makes plays anywhere in the half-court, combining deep range with a shifty inside presence. He does not have the same rap sheet as some of his peers on this list, so colleges will need to see more from him in the coming seasons.
Devon Fielding
Devon
Fielding
6'1" | PG
La Crosse Central | 2022
State
WI
– 2022
He’s unquestionably a college-caliber athlete, but does his remaining skillset follow suit? The answer to that is a certain yes, and he’s proved it this summer. In addition to athleticism, he’s built. Athletic, built guards are tanks when they’re attacking downhill. From the perimeter, he’s developing a solid jump shot, which has been great in flashes this summer. He could be smoother on the outside and a bit more explosive, but that doesn’t take away from his unique college potential.