Gussler Invitational Wednesday Standouts
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The Gussler Invitational featured some intense action at Thomas Worthington High School for a two day event, I caught the boys action on Wednesday and this article will feature some standouts from those games. Antwaun Hathcock OH #122 PF #12…
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Continue ReadingThe Gussler Invitational featured some intense action at Thomas Worthington High School for a two day event, I caught the boys action on Wednesday and this article will feature some standouts from those games.
A consistent top performer during the spring and summer on the Prep Hoops Circuit, it was good to catch Hathcock with his high school program as well. Hathcock plays with a good motor and had an early dunk which sparked some energy from his team. He doesn’t have a flashy game, but his ability to finish in the paint through contact is efficient and productive and will translate to the next level. Ponitz was a little sleepy early and Hathcock made some key plays to keep them competitive until they went on a big run in the second half to pull away with the easy victory. The Panthers are one of the more talented teams in the Dayton metro area.
A new name for me, McClure was the leading scorer as Dublin Coffman got an impressive victory over Wadsworth at this event. McClure showed off his quickness and ability to handle the ball, attacking closeouts and despite being undersized, using his body to throw defenders off with his unique pace. Able to score effectively in the mid-range, McClure could create for himself or others off the bounce. Dublin Coffman has a lot of shooters and skilled players in their rotation and McClure really stood out on Wednesday as a player to watch in central Ohio as the years move on.
Kirkby is one of my favorite sleepers in central Ohio’s 2023 class with his skill and frame for his size. At 6’5 Kirkby can put the ball on the floor and despite shooting with his left hand, he prefers to finish and pass with his right. He can attack from the face up on the perimeter and uses jump stops effectively at the rim. Kirkby has made a huge jump in production from Junior to Senior year and seems to keep improving, I think Division III programs should be looking at him as a skilled forward to fill out their roster.
Recently off the board, Zalewski announced he would be committing to Tiffin to continue his football career. Despite being a football prospect, I love a lot of what Zalewski brings to the basketball court. Zalewski is tough and used his strength to gather loose balls and finish through contact. I also thought Zalewski passed the ball at a high level, creating open looks for his teammates as well.
Another new name Provitt showed some intriguing flashes with a monster dunk and block. Standing at 6’7 Provitt moved pretty well and played a majority of the game. Small college coaches are always asking for size and Provitt has some physical tools to work with and is getting good experience playing heavy minutes for the Cardinals. I think Division III and JUCO programs should be giving Provitt a look if they want to bring in a big man for the 2023 class.