Summer Recap – Program Profile: Marlin Elite Academy
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When trying to figure out how to best recap the summer basketball scene there was, at first, some paralysis by analysis. With so many great programs featuring talented prospects it is quite the daunting task to try and give everyone…
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Continue ReadingWhen trying to figure out how to best recap the summer basketball scene there was, at first, some paralysis by analysis. With so many great programs featuring talented prospects it is quite the daunting task to try and give everyone the coverage they deserve. Especially with teams spread out across different circuits it can be hard to find a natural way to efficiently break down everything. I’ve decided that the easiest way to do this, and provided the most individual coverage, will be to simply go team-by-team across the state. This exercise will run through the end of August so be patient as we work through all of the teams. With a rankings update coming at the beginning of the month we will have a lot of other content being pushed out as well.
In these program spotlights we will feature a top prospect, a top stock-riser, and an under-the-radar name. Then, I will simply empty out the notebook with some other thoughts and takeaways that have been compiled over the last few months as it pertains to that team. Let’s dive on in.
Top Prospect: Austin Willoughby Austin Willoughby 6'3" | SF Chca | 2023 State IN (Whiteland H.S. 2023/Marlin Elite 2023)
There is a lot to like about Willoughby’s game. The 6’4″ wing/forward is as versatile as they come on the offensive end. Willoughby is a strong, athletic driver, has showcased the ability to knockdown open outside shots, and is a very underrated passer. As a secondary playmaker in the half court he can be a real matchup problem for opposing defenses. He plays extremely hard on both ends of the floor and has the physicality to mix it up around the basket and on the boards. Really like his potential as a small college prospect.
Top Stock-Riser: Max Booher Max Booher 6'3" | SG Greenwood Christian | 2024 State IN (Greenwood Christian 2024/Marlin Elite 2024)
Booher has elite catch-and-shoot ability. That is the thing that stands out right away when watching him play. The 6’2 guard knocked in three-pointers at a 45% clip over the summer and averaged just shy of 20 points per game for Marlin Elite’s 16u group. He’s also a gym rat that just keeps getting better and adding to his game. Booher has proven himself over the summer as a playmaker off the bounce along with his great shooting ability. He has the potential to be a high assist guy while playing without turning it over. Definitely turned some heads during the AAU season.
Under-the-Radar Name: Ethan McComb Ethan McComb 6'1" | SG Center Grove | 2023 State IN (Center Grove H.S. 2023/Marlin Elite 2023)
This shifty 6’1″ guard brings a lot of offensive skill to the table. He handles the ball well enough to be your point guard as a table setter with playmaking ability. Additionally, he is a knock down three-pointer shooter making him a constant threat when playing off of the ball as well. McComb plays off of the ballscreen well, can make threes off of the dribble, and has a nice intermediate game when attacking downhill to the rim. Solid small college guard prospect.