Stock rising forwards from 2024 Rankings Update
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Our 2024 rankings update saw some prospects make significant leaps up the rankings, in this article spotlight six forwards who are making noise this spring. Deandre Jones OH #7 PF #4 HEIGHT 6'8" POS PF CLASS 2024 View Profile Deandre…
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Continue ReadingOur 2024 rankings update saw some prospects make significant leaps up the rankings, in this article spotlight six forwards who are making noise this spring.
One of the longest players in the state, college programs are very intrigued by the defensive versatility that Jones has with his quickness, length and shot blocking ability. Holding 10 Division I offers from low to mid major programs, Jones is one of the more sought after prospects in Ohio’s 2024 class. Getting better every time I watch him play, Jones has had some intriguing flashes on the 3SSB circuit with Wildcat Select. It’ll be interesting to track Jones development throughout his senior season and see which college program he chooses to attend.
A prospect who’s come a long way since I first saw him in January, Kuany now holds a couple of Division I offers with Eastern Michigan being the latest school to offer. Playing on the interior in the EYBL, Kuany has shown impressive motor and impact around the rim at both ends. Active on the offensive glass and playing with the length to protect the rim as well, Kuany is tied for second on Indy Heat in blocks. Trying to expand his range as a shooter, Kuany is 1/10 from 3-point range and shooting 58% from the free throw line in EYBL play showing that these skills are a work in progress but he is making some improvements. I expect more low to mid major programs to evaluate Kuany this summer and more schools get involved with his recruitment.
Another bench player making an impact on the EYBL circuit, Njie is the third brother from Centerville after his oldest brother Mo and middle brother Kebba both went to Division I programs. An active forward, Baboucarr is a little shorter than his two older brothers but is a good athlete with impressive vertical pop and moves his feet well. Shooting over 50% from the floor and 11/13 from the free throw line, Njie has been efficient in a simple offensive role where he’s asked to grab offensive rebounds, cut to the basket and attack an extended closeout. I think Njie should be getting a lot of scholarship love due to his athleticism, defensive potential and production on top teams at both the high school and grassroots level.
A prep hoops circuit standout, Holden is one of the most gifted athletes in the state. Throwing down a handful of dunks in every game I’ve seen of him this spring, Holden gets his hands on the rim often. Flashing some perimeter ability with the jumper and ball handling, Holden’s early college role might be best suited as a small ball center where he’s able to use his physical tools against taller bigs. Expect a big senior season for Holden in the GMC and scholarship interest to come sooner rather than later.
Payne is another big capable of playing either the four or the five at the next level and I’ve been impressed with his activity around the basket this spring. One of the more productive players from the Youngstown area last season, Payne will lead a new look Ursuline squad with some talented freshmen in the fold for the 2023-24 season. Expect Payne to put up big-time numbers in 2023-24 as Ursuline looks to win a district title.
A late blooming forward with some really intriguing physical upside, Hudson is a prospect that you’ll want to check out. With his perimeter shooting ability and run and jump athleticism, Hudson can hurt you from the perimeter and slashing to the basket. Starting to turn his skill and natural talent into more consistent production, Hudson recently stood out at the Prep Hoops Grit Memorial Classic. College coaches can check him out with Lexington at Midwest Live later in the month of June.