KC Clash GameChangers: Bigs
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The talent at the KC Clash was eye-popping. Older guys showcased their talents while young risers gave us a peak at what’s to come. But the impact by a few special players proved they are true “GameChangers.” Here are some bigs who made that type of impact (listed by age):
Aiden Wing, 6-foot-5 forward, 2023, Bishop Miege, KC Spurs:
Wing is fresh off a tremendous senior season at Miege, and now he’s looking for a place to take his highly athletic, dynamic game. He was a GameChanger at the Kansas City Clash over the weekend, due not just to his springy athleticism, nor to his versatile skills, but to his maturity and understanding of the game. He is a leader and a smart decision maker on the court.
Jagger Cornell Jagger Cornell 6'4" | SG Rock Bridge | 2024 State MO , 6-foot-4 forward, 2024, Rock Bridge, Columbia Supreme:
One of the most fun players to watch, Cornell doesn’t necessarily play the forward spot, but we’ll consider him a “big” for this exercise because he is so versatile and effective in the lane. Though he has the range and ball handling of a guard, he mixes it up in the paint, blocking shots and rebounding effectively. Cornell is a GameChanger because he effects the game in so many ways. He can score around the rim, on pullups in the midrange, and from deep. He’s a willing passer and defender too.
Ronnie Bush, 6-foot-4 center, 2025, Schlagle, KC Kings Elite:
Bush stood out for his dynamic athleticism in the paint. A high-riser, Bush can intimidate drivers and thwart posts with his long arms and great anticipation. He doesn’t necessarily get a bunch of shot opportunities, but he showed he can create space for a fadeaway against a post, and he hit some nice midrange jumpers. With his length, high release and spring, Bush can get a shot off almost anytime, anywhere. He rebounded and walled up against bigger posts, and not many big men can run the floor the way he can.
Cooper Crawford Cooper Crawford 6'6" | PF Lansing | 2026 State KS , 6-foot-6 forward, 2026, Lansing, KC Spurs:
One of the most noteworthy players in KC last weekend, Crawford showed off a unique skill set. He’s long and physically imposing, and he makes his biggest impact by receiving a pass on the perimeter, driving through traffic and making laser passes to shooters. He is still honing his ability to hit shots on the drive, but he has the tools. This is a big, athletic and highly skilled player who has a very high ceiling.
Landon Van Pelt Landon Van Pelt 6'7" | PF Lee's Summit | 2026 State MO , 6-foot-7 center, Lee’s Summit, Marcus Denmon 2026
Perhaps the most physically impressive player in Kansas City was Van Pelt. He’s not just tall. He’s a solidly built young man who dominates the paint. He has nice coordination and footwork for his age, and he seems to have a good grasp for the team concept. He hammers the glass and shuts down offense in the paint. Van Pelt has nimble-enough feet to step away from the lane and be a threat to shoot, and he also runs the floor well for his size.