Bigs Ready For More
Some big men get on the varsity floor early because of their size. But some take more time to develop. Every summer, you can see guys who haven’t yet played a big role on their varsity squads, but who look…
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Continue ReadingSome big men get on the varsity floor early because of their size. But some take more time to develop. Every summer, you can see guys who haven’t yet played a big role on their varsity squads, but who look ready for a big leap.
There are plenty of guys around the state who used the summer to prepare for a big school-ball leap. Here are a few forwards who might fit that description:
Morice Ayers
Morice Ayers
Some guys just jump out at you. Ayers is one. His athleticism and ability to rise stands out. He can put the ball on the floor to slice into the lane, and once he’s ready to pull the trigger, he rises to another level above the crowd. He rebounds and blocks shots, and causes a lot of disruption at the defensive end. He has nice ball skills and can get to his own shot off the bounce. This guy should make a big leap this year.
Jordan Buhrle
Jordan Buhrle
One of the biggest players on the club scene this summer, Buhrle brings good fundamentals and a ton of power to the post. He plays with physicality and knows his job is to protect the paint. He has fundamental moves down low, including a hook from a very high release. Buhrle was a productive junior, but should go even bigger this season.
Andover featured a lot of athletes and shooters on the perimeter last season. Neal-McFarthing was a key reserve but didn’t get to show all he’s capable of. He showed this summer he is a big man who can maneuver well, run the floor and finish with power. He’s big. If the Trojans decide to go with a big presence at the forward spot, Neal-McFarthing may be ready to bust out this year.
Highlights
Caleb Noonoo
Caleb Noonoo
Noonoo got in a little action as a reserve last year on a really good Chargers team. But with losses to some key pieces, Topeka West will need lots of guys to step up. Noonoo is a dynamic athlete and high riser who looks to make a big impact as a senior. He chases plays down in transition and swats a lot of shots. He has power to battle in the lane, and more speed than most bigs.
Jarett Steward
Jarett Steward
This guy is very tall, with long arms and a slender build but who works really hard to muscle up in the paint. Steward hasn’t had much opportunity on the varsity yet, but his frame stood out this summer. He moves his feet laterally to stay in position and uses his length to thwart shots. He has soft hands and nice fundamentals in the lane.