VT Roundup Pt. 1/2: Intriguing Size from Each Corner of the 802
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Here’s a little taste of the Vermont landscape as I look at the top guys who are 6’4 and up. Get familiar! Paul McGillion, 6’9 F – Kimball Union Academy Class of 2024 The Brattleboro product has reclassed and changed…
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Continue ReadingHere’s a little taste of the Vermont landscape as I look at the top guys who are 6’4 and up. Get familiar!
Paul McGillion, 6’9 F – Kimball Union Academy Class of 2024
The Brattleboro product has reclassed and changed addresses as he heads to Kimball Union in the fall. Paul’s a skillful big with a deep bag of moves around the low, mid, and high post, and he has the length to finish over the top. With his wingspan, feel, and communication in the center of the floor he’ll be a force around the rim on both sides of the ball. I’m excited to see him continue to hone his craft at KUA.
Tucker Tharpe Tucker Tharpe 6'6" | PF Champlain Valley | 2024 State New E , 6’7 F – Blueprint Basketball/Champlain Valley Union H.S. Class of 2024
Reigning D1 State Champ Tucker Tharpe Tucker Tharpe 6'6" | PF Champlain Valley | 2024 State New E has sharpened his toolkit this summer. His handle has gotten crisper and his explosiveness around the cup has improved too. An adept slasher, passer, and off-ball creator for teammates, Tharpe has the intangibles and IQ to make an impact in a lot of ways. A multi-positional defender too, he provides inside/out coverage and extensive switchability.
Drew Bessette Drew Bessette 6'7" | PF Rice Memorial | 2024 State New E , 6’8 W/F – Rens United/VT Elite/Rice Memorial H.S. Class of 2024
At this point I think it’s safe to say Drew is the best shooter in the state. He’s elite at creating space whether he’s coming off screens, in the pick and pop, or relocating on drives, and he catches shot ready every time. Bessette’s efficiency is sky high at each level, and his unselfishness is quickly evident; he’s almost too unselfish. A savvy defender inside and out, Drew is the modern swingman.
Rex Hauser Rex Hauser 6'5" | SF St. Johnsbury Academy | 2025 State New E , 6’5 W – VT Elite/St. Johnsbury Academy Class of 2025
I’ve become a huge fan of Rex this summer; the kid can do everything. He rebounds at a high rate and can play 3-5 when called upon, yet he’s a natural 2-3 who creates chaos in fullcourt press situations. Hauser finishes with efficiency at each level and can comfortably play various positions in the halfcourt against m2m or zones, and his passing + court vision leads to plentiful looks and hockey assists. So much game.
Abdi Sharif, 6’4 G/W – VT Elite/Rice Memorial H.S. Class of 2025
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Abdi is the best perimeter defender in the state. His athleticism and agility are exceptional, and with his impressive length, size, and anticipation, opponents have no advantage. Sharif takes guys completely out of their game. Furthermore, Abdi’s facilitation and scoring have marked improvement. I’m excited to see Abdi in a more robust role come Winter.