Rising Rams–Spring&Summer AAU Circuit
South River enjoyed what was a banner season in 2021-2022, finishing with a 20-8 record and winning a game in the state tournament. In breaking down some of the top returning players in the GMC, this 2023 heavy squad gets…
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Continue ReadingSouth River enjoyed what was a banner season in 2021-2022, finishing with a 20-8 record and winning a game in the state tournament. In breaking down some of the top returning players in the GMC, this 2023 heavy squad gets a special focus. They will be one of the contenders in the division, county and section next season, with several 2023’s to watch.
Lazaro Rodriguez Lazaro Rodriguez 6'4" | SF South River | 2023 State NJ | 6’4” | F | South River 2023
A strong and physical player, Rodriguez is a leader for the Rams. He gets out in transition and can draw contact at the rim, has good footwork in the post and can handle the ball. He’s active on defense and a good shot blocker. He will likely cross 1,000 points on opening night this winter and would have last year if not for the ‘Rona shortened 2020-2021 season. He plays AAU for the NJ Bulldogs . His size has him as an in-between type of player who would be a good fit at any D-3 program in the region. He carries a near perfect GPA and is in the National Honor Society, which should catch the eye of higher academic schools looking for an athletic player capable of scoring in multiple ways. Keynote performances were against South Plainfield(19) and South Brunswick(23).
Jeremy Grospe Jeremy Grospe 5'10" | CG South River | 2023 State NJ | 5’9” | G | South River 2023
Grospe went from being a capable contributor in his first two years to becoming one of the Rams biggest threats from beyond the arc and a backcourt leader. He drained nearly 70 three pointers, dished out 80 assists and averaged just about 11 points per game, including a 21 vs South Plainfield and 25 vs Asbury Park. As a four year varsity player, he’ll be a valued member of the Rams lineup next year and his productivity will continue to rise. He’s the kind of player who looks unassuming and then lights you up for 5 or 6 three pointers. D3 coaches looking for crafty guards who can score should pay attention. Grospe has played with the NJ Bulldogs .
His younger brother Alex Grospe was a freshman regular on the team and is also a player to watch. Crafty, high motor and fits perfectly in the never-slow-down offense. Alex’s best game was 17 vs Roselle. The pass first guard gained valuable experience and will carry the burden once the 2023s graduate.
Kobe Taylor| 6’2” | F | South River 2023
Taylor was one of the more unsung heroes of last year’s 20 win team for the Rams. While his totals don’t jump off the charts at 9&5, he was steady for the Rams every night. His willingness to hit the glass helped them in a number of contests. His height may a be a bit undersized for a main forward spot at 6’2”-6’3” but he is a strong, physical player who has a mature frame and he can use that to his advantage. Best games were Timothy Christian(20&9) and Middlesex(18&7). Held his own against the better competition as well(South Plainfield, Keyport, Raritan). Interesting player that D3 schools should like because of his rebounding ability and can fill a role as a strong player capable of battling in the post.
Roman Santos Roman Santos 6'5" | SF South River | 2023 State NJ | 6’5′ | F | South River 2023
If South River wins the divisional or sectional titles in 2022-2023, Santos may be the X-Factor. He burst on the scene as a junior and averaged nearly 15ppg for a team that saw balanced scoring across the board. One of his best leadership moments came in a blowout against Middlesex. The Blue Jays keyed on Grospe and Rodriguez and limited their involvement and it was Santos who led the way with 19 points. He’s got size and is capable of beating a defender in more than one way. After his strong junior season, D3 coaches should be entering the summer and the next HS season saying “Ya’ know…15PPG on a 20 win team…6’5”…I better go see this kid play.”