NE Kansas Wings Who Impressed
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We saw a lot of impressive performances in the weeks before the holidays. New faces, emerging players and noteworthy contributions merit attention as we head to the break: Xavier Alexander, 6-foot-1 guard, 2023, Topeka West: When the Chargers graduated some…
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Continue ReadingWe saw a lot of impressive performances in the weeks before the holidays. New faces, emerging players and noteworthy contributions merit attention as we head to the break:
Xavier Alexander, 6-foot-1 guard, 2023, Topeka West:
When the Chargers graduated some all-state caliber seniors last year, the question was where would the firepower come from to support Elijah Brooks Elijah Brooks 6'3" | CG Topeka West | 2022 State KS . The best way to free Brooks up to do his thing is to surround him with shooters who can stretch the defense. Alexander has been shooting the lights out so far this season,
Troy Heiman, 6-foot-2 guard, 2023, Silver Lake:
Heiman is a long, slashing wing who is a versatile complement to Kamryn Kaniper Kamryn Kaniper 6'4" | SF Silver Lake | 2023 State KS . Heiman is good for double figures every night. He can put the ball on the floor anywhere on the court, and his pull up jumper off the drive is deadly. He is explosive enough to score through traffic at the rim, and can hit the three-ball as well.
Korin Koenig, 6-foot-1 guard, 2022, Riley County:
Koenig is a long and active wing who has a smooth jumper off the bounce. He is a slasher at the offensive end, able to penetrate with the ball, or move without the ball to get to open shots. He is really good at grabbing a rebound and taking it up the floor himself, creating havoc for the defense.
Francesco Patrizi, 6-foot-3 forward, 2023, Rossville:
The exchange student from Italy is making quite a contribution to his new school. He gives the Bulldawgs a bouncy scorer who can put the ball on the floor to penetrate, hit the perimeter shot, and make athletic plays. He’s still adjusting to the Kansas high school game, but he brings a lot of ball skills, plus length and competitiveness.
Nate Pewe, 6-foot-4 forward, 2022, Shawnee Heights:
Pewe is about as physical and tough as they come. He plays with a competitive fire that inspires the T-Bird squad. He averaged 10 points and 6 rebounds as a junior, and as a senior his leadership and defense is every bit as important as offensive production.
Jeter Purdy, 6-foot-3 forward, 2024, Atchison:
This is a sophomore to keep an eye on. He is a smooth wing who can make a ton of plays. He is strong and physical for his age, attacking defenses and playing through contact. He rebounds well with his athleticism and length, and he can shoot from deep or put the ball on the floor to get to the midrange.
Zak Zeller, 6-foot-1 forward, 2022, Riley County:
Zeller and Koenig make a nice tandem for the Falcons. Zeller is a versatile and athletic wing who is effective in the post or cutting through the lane. He has a knack for finding openings near the basket to receive passes. He has nice spring and the slipperiness to get shots off in traffic. He moves off screens well and can catch and shoot on the move with a quick release. Zeller also has the ability to create his own shot, but he works really well off his teammates.