Players to Watch – NE Kansas Bigs
There are always players who haven’t made big varsity impact who stand out in the summer. These players bear watching to see if they can translate their summer growth to a role at their high school. Here are some NE…
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Continue ReadingThere are always players who haven’t made big varsity impact who stand out in the summer. These players bear watching to see if they can translate their summer growth to a role at their high school.
Here are some NE Kansas bigs to watch as we transition to school ball:
Aden-Jay Baker, 6-foot-5 forward, 2022, Veritas:
With heavy losses to graduation, including star forward Will Rau Will Rau 6'4" | SF Veritas | 2021 State KS , the Eagles will be looking for some players to step up. Watch for Baker to really build on his 5.3 points and 4.3 rebounds a game from last year, with the paint now open with Rau’s departure.
Phillip Doebele, 6-foot-3 forward, 2022, Hanover:
Despite a couple of key losses to graduation, don’t expect Hanover to take a step back. Guys like Doebele will take on bigger roles, and the Wildcats will be there at the end again. He was an important reserve on the state champs, with a couple of big outings, like the 23 he produced against Washington County.
Ismael Fadiga, 6-foot-4 forward, 2022, Junction City:
Fadiga has patiently waited to make his mark on the varsity level at Junction City. He’s demonstrating this summer that he has a lot of game ready for the opportunity. He is long and lean and athletic, which allows him to guard a variety of positions. He defends the rim and goes high for rebounds in traffic. He has the athleticism to fit right into the Blue Jays up-tempo, guard-oriented style.
Tyler Hobrock, 6-foot-4 forward, 2022, Concordia:
Concordia graduates some good players, which should open the door for more opportunity for Hobrock and other returners. He showed occasional spurts, like the 15 points he put up against Smoky Valley.
Sylvester Jackson, 6-foot-3 forward, 2024, Junction City:
One young guy to watch contend for playing time is the long, lean Jackson. He has put in a lot of good work for SSA Hoops Elite this summer, playing against top competition and quietly developing his game. He gets after it on the boards and runs the floor, letting his length and athleticism impact the game. Jackson is a team-first big who will put in the work to develop his post play.