Back to School Special: Top of the Class ’23
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As schools across Kansas head back in session, we are starting to look at some “Back to School” themed lists before we update our rankings before the fall hits! Starting off with some of the Top names to watch in…
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Continue ReadingAs schools across Kansas head back in session, we are starting to look at some “Back to School” themed lists before we update our rankings before the fall hits! Starting off with some of the Top names to watch in the class. (Not in Any Particular Order)
Big time scoring guard and playmaker that excels with the ball in his hands but can be effective playing off the ball in a more can and shoot or catch and create way. Top notch scorer from the paint, getting into the mid range off the bounce, and from three in multiple ways. Continued to flash great passing skills as well throughout the summer and can impact the game in a wider fashion now as he heads into a big senior year.
Had a monster spring and summer on the grassroots scene picking up a ton of momentum and a wide range of solid mid major offers from across the country. His length, athletic spring, and elite three point shooting are the standouts with Shetlar on the recruiting front, but he has also become a good distributer, rebounder, and break leader or runner in transition. Has the ability to pour it on in bunches from behind the arc and is super efficient on offense.
Another name that picked up major steam this spring and summer with the college level picking up some quality offers after running with multiple grassroots clubs and performing well in different events. Top tier athletically and with his motor with a nice skill set behind it. Savvy off the dribble with his crossover, can get through small gaps when attacking, and has the ability to rise up and play above the rim in any situation. Continues to get consistency behind the three point line as well. Very instinctual on defense with active hands and passing lane jumping ability.
Highlights
Another player on this list that garnered massive momentum in recruiting with multiple MIAA offers and a mid major offer. The long and bouncy wing showed off his versatility on both ends of the floor and on defense primarily having to guard more traditional forwards on a ton of occasions. Improved in the mid range game, finishing sot with either hand, his rip drive attack was effective, and continued to shoot the three ball well. His highlight dunks were also a major note from the grassroots season.
Was consistent again in the grassroots scene playing a nice complimentary wing/stretch 4 role surrounded by some great guards. The Southeast of Saline product has great court vision, hands, touch on his jumper, and defensive versatility. Crafty finisher with his back to the basket or on rip drives with either hand. Good passer, can set solid screens and relocate, big time offensive rebounder, and plays with a prime motor.
Another talented and versatile guard in this class who picked up a Washburn offer in the summer. Elite off the ball with his basketball IQ reading screens, understanding spacing, and willingness to relocate off passes and post entries. One of the most consistent shooters from all three levels in Kansas and is super efficient. Great range and stroke from the three point line, big time one dribble pull up or into a floater game, and is a crafty paint finisher. Competes on the defensive end as well.
Coming off an injury, Ratzlaff hopped back into the swing of things during the summer and progressed nicely and impacted winning for his club. Has a big time handle going side to side to create driving angles, handles pressure with poise, plays downhill effectively, and finds his shot with solid burst. Really top level court vision and passer and gets his teammates great looks.