Show-Me Showdown (Defensive Gems 2023-24)
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Prep Hoops Missouri takes a look at some of the top defensive players that we saw over the weekend at Show Me Showcase, which was held at the Center of St. Louis Sports. CJ Lang CJ Lang 6'1" |…
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Continue ReadingPrep Hoops Missouri takes a look at some of the top defensive players that we saw over the weekend at Show Me Showcase, which was held at the Center of St. Louis Sports.
CJ Lang CJ Lang 6'1" | CG Webster Groves | 2023 State MO (Gateway-Knights 2023): The 6’1″ point guard from Webster Groves is a game-changer on the defensive end because he can impact a game in so many ways. He’s a terrific on-ball defender who can keep ball handlers in front of him and he can also pick pockets. He has great anticipation to dart into the passing lanes for steals and he is always in the right position to create disruption.
Evan Bland (Hardwood Elite 2023): A 6’1″ Homeschool point guard who was capable of changing the flow of the game when he entered the action with his defensive intensity and energy. He was equally effective at applying on-ball pressure and creating turnovers with his work in the passing lanes. His motor was very impressive.
Jayden Banks Jayden Banks 5'10" | PG MICDS | 2024 State MO (Gateway-Knights 2024 UA): The 5’10″ 2024 point guard from MICDS was one of most impressive on-ball defenders that I watched during the weekend. He has good quickness and he used it along with his determination not to get beat on the dribble.
Cade Altadonna (Illinois Bears-Parr 2023): A 6’1″ 2023 guard from Highland (IL) who was an excellent position defender who always seemed to be in the right place on the defensive end. His instincts were excellent as he jumped the passing lanes and had several steals during the weekend.
James Bennett (COMO-TNT Black 2023): A 6’7″ 2023 forward from Smith-Cotton who enters the game and has an immediate impact with his defensive presence. He is active and very athletic and he does a good job at playing on the help side. He can block shots and he can also step out and defend smaller guards on switches with his athleticism.
Quinn Sunderland Quinn Sunderland 6'10" | PF Lindbergh | 2024 State MO (Gateway-Knights 2024 UA): A 6’8″ 2024 forward from Lindbergh who specializes in blocking shots. He is a good athlete with a long wingspan and excellent timing to block shots without ever fouling. He uses his mobility to come over from the weak side to get swats to start the fast break.