Tape Dont Lie: Tulsa Hawks 2025
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In just over a week, the first Live Period Weekend of the 2023 AAU calendar will take place. Let’s take a look at a group of 2025 prospects from the Tulsa Hawks’ program, when they squared off against a pair…
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Continue ReadingIn just over a week, the first Live Period Weekend of the 2023 AAU calendar will take place. Let’s take a look at a group of 2025 prospects from the Tulsa Hawks’ program, when they squared off against a pair of Texas programs (Urban DFW Elite & Southern Assault) from a tournament last month in Texas.
The Bixby Spartan has been on a tear to star the grassroots season. It’s easy to see why with his ability to hit from distance with compact, quick three pointers. When he gets cleans looks in catch and shot situations, he has the range to hit from a foot or two beyond the current three point line. What adds to the dynamism of Driver’s game is he a good burst for a smaller guard, which allows him to pressure the defense. Where at the rim he showed a developing floater and solid job of taking contact. An aggressive defender when the Hawks pressed in the two contests, which led to some easy points in transition. His scoring package in the two wins were abilites, but at his size it will be good to see some more playmaking in future viewings.
Highlights
As a sophomore, Hancuff flashed upside thanks to his motor and physical traits. But didn’t have a true breakout. Still, as covered in late February, there was enough signs to believe that 2025 wing could make a jump that puts him among the top players in this class. It’s early days for AAU season, but it’s possible Hancuff is starting to achieve his high potential upside sooner rather than later.
The biggest thing that stands out when watching the upside player is his fearlessness. While currently skinny, he never hesitates from trying to dunk on any defender when driving. This also applies to the defensive end as he’s also willing to block shots, even against good leapers. Late in the first half against Southern Assault, he met a fellow bouncy player at the rim in transition defense and won the battle with an eye popping rejection. To go along with his fearlessness he looked great as an off the ball mover and finisher in the Hawk’s offense.
Where Hancuff is still finding his way is as an on the ball slasher and creator. There’s some potential there with some developing spin moves and ball handling to get down hill when given face up opportunities. There’s promise as a passer, as while he need to work on some accuracy and touch, he showed of good vision and unselfishness in his attempts. Hancuff recently picked up an offer from Oklahoma City University and the momentum in his development is firmly rolling in the right direction.
The first contest watched against Urban DFW elite was a solid showing for Todd. He has good fundamental game when driving with euro steps, spins and more. His match up against Southern Assault was more impressive, as he fought through some early adversity with turnovers and size at the rim, to produce in a comeback victory. What got him in trouble early, and a couple other moments, was where he fell in love with pounding the rock. When he was more decisive in attacking, he has enough craftiness and tight handles to get down hill. Where he has a good understanding of hesitation and angles to get off shots against bigger foes. While not the quickest guard for high level grassroots, the reps he did win where a good showing of the advantages of playing patience and understanding simpler moves and passes are more effective at this level.
Fresh off a 4A State Championship with Douglass, Williams was a steady catch and shoot option for the Trojans all season long. The two games watched were signs that the 2025 guard is looking to expand his game, with a willingness to drive. The attempted evolution to his game was good, as he was able to score some. But will need to continue to refine his passing and decision making when attacking in the halfcourt and transition. Another plus were signs he knows how to use his long wingspan to be a pest on the defensive end.
Cory Holman Jr
Cory Holman Jr
Another standout from Douglass, Holman Jr will be stepping into a bigger role for the defending 4A Champs next winter. With broad shoulders and a frame that should pack plenty of power as he matures, he gave good minutes in the two contests as a hardworking forward. On the defensive end, he’s a battler when it comes to rebounds, while also willing to step in and take charges. Offensively he had a couple solid finishes through contact.