Seven Players you Need to Know in Louisiana HS Basketball
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With the basketball season less than three weeks away, it is probably time for the basketball fans and coaches to get more acquainted with some of the better players in the state. These preps are the ones who will be…
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Continue ReadingWith the basketball season less than three weeks away, it is probably time for the basketball fans and coaches to get more acquainted with some of the better players in the state. These preps are the ones who will be vying for district MVPs, all-state, and other notable lists and awards. In this article, we will introduce the public to seven players everyone should know. These preps will be some of the better players we see in Louisiana all season and are worth coaches taking note of.
Brandon Hardy Brandon Hardy 6'4" | SG Zachary | 2023 State #234 Nation LA (6’4″ / Zachary)
The two time state champion will be the unquestioned leader of the 2022-23 Zachary Broncos. Hardy is a two-way player who can score at all three levels and defend multiple positions. He is the second rated player in his class and has fielded a slew of Division I offers since the spring. Zachary should have another banner season and Hardy should be at the center of it with is talent.
Kohen Rowbatham Kohen Rowbatham 6'1" | CG St. Thomas Aquinas | 2024 State LA (6’1″ / Northshore)
Rowbatham had a playoff run that was unrivaled last season. He was the leading scorer for Northshore as he led them to the 5A title game. Then, on the Prep Hoops Circuit, the top rated point guard in the ’24 class kept the momentum going. Rowbatham is another three level scorer who puts pressure on defenses by getting to the rim. He can also shoot from three and has improved his defense in the half court. Rowbatham makes the players around him better and will be a delight to watch this season.
Jamaria Clark Jamaria Clark 6'2" | CG Doyline | 2023 State LA (6’2″ / Doyline)
Class B players have had to prove their mettle more time than not when it comes to hooping in Louisiana. Clark is a player who did just that and showed that he can play with anyone on any level. Clark is arguably the best shooter in the state and has turned into a top tier combo guard. He can pass and shoot with the best of them as well as attack the tin. Clark will try to lead the Panthers to the promised land again as he approaches 3,000 points in his career.
Omarion Layssard Omarion Layssard 6'2" | SG Northwood | 2023 State LA (6’2″ / Northwood-Lena)
Layssard is one of the most exciting players in the Boot and will be in contention for Class 1A most outstanding player. He is a good defender who reads passing lanes very well. Those reads help ignite the Gator transition game more times than not. Layssard is a high flyer who elevates through contact and finishes at the rim. He is also a streaky three point shooter. If he has both of those things going, it is going to be a long night for the defense.
De’Vion Lavergne De’Vion Lavergne 6'3" | CG North Central | 2023 State LA (6’3″ / North Central)
Lavergne is a player who seems to just love getting on the hardwood and competing. Whether it is with his Hurricane teammates or the players he plays travel basketball with, Lavergne gives everything he has on the floor. De’Vion is probably the best defensive guard in the state and reads people and situations so well. He creates turnovers and converts them often. His offense is consistent from all levels as well. Lavergne makes the game look really easy when he is on the floor which speaks to his talent.
Jordan Mathews Jordan Mathews 6'5" | SF Peabody | 2024 State LA (6’6″ / Peabody)
Mathews is one of those players who has a versatile offensive game. He can shoot mid-range jumpers effectively 16 feet in, he can score on either block, and he can rebound and lead the break in transition. His ability to rebound sets up his inside scoring and helps him create extra possessions for the Warhorses. Mathews is a force when he is on the court and is a true difference maker. He is a load in the paint when he is on the floor.
Aries Lewis Aries Lewis 6'6" | SF Port Allen | 2024 State LA (6’6″ / Port Allen)
Lewis is a double-double waiting to happen on a nightly basis for the Port Allen Pelicans. He is a player who can rebound and finish on the offensive boards or attack from the wing and score in that manner. Lewis also uses his long, athletic build to block shots on the defensive end and then fills the lane in transition. He is so active and does so much for the Pelicans on both ends of the floor that he may have a breakthrough season for the Pels.
Even with playoff realignment, most districts in Louisiana remained the same. This means that districts and area awards and recognition will remain intact. Look for these players above to be a part of a lot of the end of the season awards going on in Louisiana.