Player Watchlist: SD Region 1B
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In this article, we are going to look at players that you will want to watch this basketball season from Region 1B. Aberdeen Christian had a great run last season and took 2nd place in the State Tournament. It looks like they will be the favorite again this year in 1B. They bring back multiple talented players, but you never know what will happen. That is why we play the games. Let’s take a look at the watchlist.
1B PLAYER WATCHLIST
(alphabetically ordered)
Aiden Fredrickson (2022) |6-0 G| Britton/Hecla
He will be the floor general and the straw that stirs the drink for the Braves this season. Aiden will be the lone senior on the squad and he will also be tasked with being a leader. He is a strong player that can get into the lane for scoring opportunities or distribute the rock. Fredrickson is also a very good rebounder for a guard. The Braves will be counting on this PG to a have big year for Britton/Hecla.
Andrew Brennan Andrew Brennan 5'11" | PG Aberdeen Christian | 2023 State SD (2023) |5-11 G| Aberdeen Christian
He will take on a bigger role this season for the Knights. His energy, quickness, and handles make him a very exciting player. Andrew brings a bit of everything to the hardwood. He can drive to the basket and hit shots from all over the court. Brennan plays fearless and with tenacity. Opposing defenses will need to give him attention if they want to stay with the Knights.
Ethan Russell Ethan Russell 6'6" | SF Aberdeen Christian | 2023 State SD (2023) |6-5 F| Aberdeen Christian
He is a big kid and Ethan can really shoot it from the outside. This makes him a difficult matchup for most teams. Russell also has the ability to attack off the bounce. Lastly, Ethan can post up on the block and score. He is long and athletic with a college-ready body. The Knights will try to utilize him in many different looks this coming season to help him be successful. Ethan is also an underrated rim protector with the ability to block multiple shots.
Damon Opdahl Damon Opdahl 6'0" | PG Waubay/Summit | 2023 State SD (2023) |6-0 G| Waubay/Summit
He is a smart player with a high basketball IQ and great instincts. The Mustangs are hoping for Opdahl to have a breakout season. Damon can score points from all 3 levels. He runs the show for Mustangs and he directs the traffic. Opdahl is a PG that facilitates and he makes his teammates better.
Hunter Cramer Hunter Cramer 6'1" | PG Warner | 2024 State SD (2024) |6-0 G| Warner
He is an up-and-coming player that everyone will want to see play. Hunter is an athlete that is quick and fast. As a sophomore, Cramer will be the go-to man for the Monarchs. He will run the 1 and he is a good decision-maker. Defenses will struggle to keep this agile and speedy guard in front of them. I am looking forward to watching this young PG play.
Jackson Isakson Jackson Isakson 6'3" | SG Aberdeen Christian | 2023 State SD (2023) |6-3 G| Aberdeen Christian
He is a top-flight and efficient shooter with no wasted movement. Jackson’s catch-and-release shooting is fantastic. He is also a very good athlete with the ability to get into the lane and make plays. Do not forget about his handles, they are exceptional.
Jonathan Johnson (2023) |6-2 G| Waubay/Summit
He is a high-quality shooter that can light up the scoreboard. Johnson is one of the best shooters in any class. Jonathan has improved at putting the ball on the floor and attacking. With his awesome shooting and his added ability to attack, he will be a hard player to guard.
Keegan Stewart (2024) |6-3 F| Aberdeen Roncalli
He will be a mismatch problem for opposing teams. Stewart is a talented player that can go in and out. He has the physical ability to be a strong post player. Keegan can step out and shoot it with consistency. He also moves well on the perimeter. Look out for this youngster.
Maddox Miller (2024) |6-0 G| Aberdeen Roncalli
He is an energetic and smart basketball player. Miller has a high motor and he plays fast. He also understands when the game needs to slow down or speed up. He has a good understanding of the game. Maddox has the talent to be a dynamic playmaker for the Cavaliers.
Malek Wieker Malek Wieker 6'0" | CG Aberdeen Christian | 2023 State SD (2023) |6-0 G| Aberdeen Christian
A smooth guard with a keen knack for putting up buckets. The lefty can really shoot it and he has added the ability to slash to the paint. His handles are excellent, Malek is always under control when he has the ball his in hands. Wieker is an underrated passer because defenses are so worried about how well he scores. Malek plays the game at his pace and he does not let the defense dictate. He changes speeds and tempo to keep the D on their heels.
Peyton Jung (2022) |6-3 F| Warner
This veteran forward can do damage both inside and out. Jung is a tough kid. He works hard and he does the little things that will help the Monarchs. Peyton will do the dirty work, sacrifice his body, and do what it takes to win.
Zee Mounga (2022) |6-0 G| Aberdeen Roncalli
He will be a primary ballhandler for the Cavaliers this season. Zee is an explosive athlete that has the ability to make splashy plays. He uses a quick first step to blow by defenders. Mounga uses his quickness on the other side of the ball as well. He can stay in front of some of the quicker ball-handlers from opposing teams.