2023 Rankings Update: Newcomer Big Men
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(141) C Jackson Newell Jackson Newell 6'8" | C Madrid | 2023 IA (Madrid) A 6-8 center, Newell’s offensive game is still a work in progress, but he has been the best shot blocker in the state this season, averaging…
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Continue Reading(141) C Jackson Newell Jackson Newell 6'8" | C Madrid | 2023 IA (Madrid)
A 6-8 center, Newell’s offensive game is still a work in progress, but he has been the best shot blocker in the state this season, averaging 6.9 blocks a night. He’s a long big man who covers a ton of ground, and he has great timing and instincts on the defensive end. He’s averaging 10.1 points and 12.6 rebounds on 52% shooting in addition to his shot blocking prowess.
(169) PF Benton Bixby Benton Bixby 6'5" | PF Dike-New Hartford | 2023 State IA (Dike-New Hartford)
Bixby is a 6-2 power forward enjoying a breakout senior year for the Wolverines, averaging 20.1 points and 8.2 rebounds a game. He does a majority of his damage inside the painted area, but he can occasionally step out and stretch the floor.
(187) PF Bryson Zomer Bryson Zomer 6'4" | PF Rock Valley | 2023 State IA (Rock Valley)
Following the graduations of nearly everyone from last year’s 2A championship roster, the Rockets needed someone to step up, and the 6-4 Zomer has done just that, averaging 14.6 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.1 assists a game. An athletic, physical forward who can score inside and out, he has also served as the team’s best playmaking threat.
(191) PF Zach Mehmert Zach Mehmert 6'5" | PF Crestwood | 2023 State IA (Crestwood)
Mehmert is headed to play football at Northern Iowa, but the 6-4 forward uses many of the same qualities that make him a strong football player to dominate on the hardwood as well, averaging 13.5 points and 9.0 rebounds a game on 62% shooting. He has soft hands and a big, physical frame that he uses to bully smaller opposing players in the paint.
(274) PF Brandon Miller Brandon Miller 6'4" | PF Center Point-Urbana | 2023 State IA (Center Point-Urbana)
A lanky 6-5 forward who handles it fairly well for a young big man, Miller is averaging 12.2 points and a team-high 4.7 rebounds a game for the Stormin’ Pointers on 50% shooting. He has good footwork and touch around the rim, and has shown that he can make plays for his teammates with his ability to put the ball on the floor.