Deep Dives: Under the Radar 2023 Guards
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With the regular season soon wrapping up, I wanted to highlight some underrated seniors that have the potential to continue their basketball careers. These guys have been solid contributors for their teams all season, and many will have the opportunity…
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Continue ReadingWith the regular season soon wrapping up, I wanted to highlight some underrated seniors that have the potential to continue their basketball careers. These guys have been solid contributors for their teams all season, and many will have the opportunity to play some postseason games. Take a look at some under-the-radar guards before the season is caput.
West may not be one of the big-name guys on Federal Way’s roster, but he has been instrumental in their success and rise in the 4A standings. He’s filled the role as a reliable 3-and-D player, helping space the floor for some of the Eagles slashers, and contributing to a hounding team defense that helps the Eagles get up and down. He’s not just a strong shooter though, West has some sneaky ability to hit the tough shots and can blow be defenders to finish at the rim if they get too concentrated on his outside shooting. He’s a legit player that adds big depth to a team with sights on a 4A title.
Highlights
Evanson maybe isn’t as under the radar as some of the other guards on this list, but his progress from a season ago has been awesome to see. He looks stronger and more assertive which has helped him not only as a scorer, getting better looks and not having to settle for as many contested jump shots, but also as a defender and has helped improve his athleticism on that end of the court. It seems his body is finally catching up to his technical skills and it has allowed him to play a more well-rounded game and expend less energy putting the ball and the basket.
There is something to be said for a player who knows themselves, understanding their role, their strengths and their limitations. Thayer is a great example of someone thriving in his role and not trying to do too much. He’s a stout point guard that is strong, quick, stays on balance, and keeps his head up while staying alive with the dribble. He’s able to be a consistent threat at the rim with his strength and balance. Most importantly, he takes care of the ball, handling pressure well and limiting wasted possessions. He has Stanwood right in the mix of a competitive Wesco 3A.
Makai Bloomfield
Makai Bloomfield
Mariner is fun team to watch as they play an undersized lineup that relentlessly attacks opposing teams on both sides of the ball. Part of that attack is Bloomfield, who has been one of the key guys for them as one of two players taller than 6-foot. He’s been tasked with guarding some tough forwards in the Wesco and has been up to the challenge, using his athleticism and anticipation to bridge the size gap. He plays with good instincts and has a really smooth game on the offensive end, scoring from all levels and doing so mostly off the bounce. He’s capable of taking over a game and could help Mariner make a run during districts.
Granberg has been on a tear recently, putting an exclamation on an already outstanding season. He’s been hyper efficient from the field, netting 29 points on 8 of 11 shooting against Lakewood, and 24 points on 7 of 10 shooting against Blaine. The Burlington-Edison point guard is the motor for their offense and has emerged not just as a leader but as a solid scoring threat who can get to the rim and hit from outside with a sweet stroke.