5 Breakout Candidates from Topeka
Time to turn the corner and start looking toward the high school season. Now is a good time to consider who might be ready to bust out. Here are five “breakout candidates” from Topeka: Jaret Sanchez KS #23 SF #5…
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Continue ReadingTime to turn the corner and start looking toward the high school season. Now is a good time to consider who might be ready to bust out.
Here are five “breakout candidates” from Topeka:
There’s hardly a player in Topeka we’re looking forward to seeing more than Sanchez. He got his feet wet on the varsity as a freshman. But after a summer of development in the club environment, he should be much more prepared for the athleticism and intensity of varsity ball. He is a big man who can really fill it up. He is a dangerous shooter from deep who knows how to find open opportunities. He can also play with power in the paint.
Caleb Noonoo
Caleb Noonoo
The Chargers return a lot of experience from their state tournament team of last year. But they lack one thing you don’t just easily replace – an athlete who can put the team on his shoulders and physically dominate the opposition. The Chargers had that in Elijah Brooks. One athlete who might be able to help fill that void is Noonoo, a long, springy athlete who blocks shots and chases down plays. He can physically hold his own in the post and could be a big man for West’s talented guards to play off.
Dominik Ridley
Dominik Ridley
Hayden combines some solid returning contributors with some interesting new pieces. Ridley (pictured) was part of the group that placed fourth in 4A a year ago, playing a key role off the bench. He is a powerfully built guard who was unfazed by the pressure of the state tournament last year. He battles taller guards with his strength and sheer determination. He is a disruptive force on defense, particularly in the open court where his anticipation leads to lots of interceptions. There will be minutes available for guards to grab and Ridley has the experience to step in.
Evan Will
Evan Will
Cair Paravel graduated a lot of talent from a really good team. They will particularly need scorers to step up. Will is one of the primary returners, but he’ll be asked to do a lot more this year than the 6 points and 2 rebounds he put up as a sophomore. A multi-sport athlete, Will plays with intelligence and toughness.
Preston Ross
Preston Ross
The Junior Blues have a new coach and will be looking for veterans to lead the transition. And they will certainly be looking to rely on big, athletic playmakers like Ross. The senior is a long wing who can play inside and out. He shoots it well in the midrange and is athletic enough to get his shot off, as well as to crash the boards. He moves without the ball to give his teammates a target and he catches and shoots it smoothly. He explodes to the basket and can finish.