Tark Classic Preview: Deep Sleepers Part 1
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The Tarkanian Classic gets underway this week. The event will feature 100’s of teams from around the globe. Starting with the Prep School Division on Dec 16th the event runs all the way until the Finals of the Platinum division…
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Continue ReadingThe Tarkanian Classic gets underway this week. The event will feature 100’s of teams from around the globe. Starting with the Prep School Division on Dec 16th the event runs all the way until the Finals of the Platinum division on Dec 22nd. Best thing about the event, is the fact that it has different brackets, allowing teams to compete against comparable competition. An event like this is the perfect opportunity for players who may not be at the top of the recruiting board, to show their value and make a name for themselves. In this article, we preview some sleepers who could have big impacts for their teams this week.
Role player for the Trailblazers has size. Durango will be competing in the Platinum division, so it will be all hands on deck, if Baletic can provide anything for the 5A contender, it would go a long way to helping them make a repeat semifinal run.
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Bright is still a work in progress but expect him to get thrown into the fire in this event. He has size, and good back to the basket ability, and is playing with a group of guards that know how to feed the post. I don’t expect double doubles, but don’t be surprised if he contributes to a win or two.
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I’m excited to see what Baudreau brings to the table this weekend. His size and athleticism could be a factor as the tournament goes on. Last year Gorman took home the title with a relatively small team, adding the 6’8 bouncy big will provide another weapon for the squad as they seek a repeat.
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Stephenson has size, athleticism and versatility. Looking to see how he is used this week, as the Cougars look to make a run for the Platinum division crown. He has the ability to impact the game in other ways besides scoring, so look for his rebounding, and defense to be a factor in the event the Cougars make a deep run.
Coleman is coming off a career high in his last game, and that could be just the springboard the freshman needs. Desert Pines has its eyes set on a Nike Bracket crown, and production from the freshmen could go a long way to helping them reach that goal. Coleman’s ability to shoot it and create for himself, gives him a great opportunity to produce for the undefeated Jags.
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This is an easy one, as Jackson will look to solidify his place in the upcoming class of 2025 rankings. I saw the sophomore guard a couple of months ago when I went to view the Rattlers, he looked good then and is looking even better now. Really, it’s an opportunity for me to gauge where he lands in the rankings, and what if any level of prospect he ultimately becomes.
The Falcons have gotten off to a fast start this year, and Roberts deserves a lot of the credit. He probably deserves higher than his 85 ranking as well. I’ll get an opportunity to validate both POV’s this week, as they open up in Spalding bracket play this week.