Top Centers for the 2024 Class
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With the new and updated power rankings for the 2024 class, we have seen new players added and players who have climbed up and down looking to make their mark for this upcoming season. Looking at the center positions we…
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Continue ReadingWith the new and updated power rankings for the 2024 class, we have seen new players added and players who have climbed up and down looking to make their mark for this upcoming season. Looking at the center positions we will look at the the top center at that spot and see what makes these players great.
Schmidt-Uili is a new addition to the new and updated power rankings. The 6’10” big man out of New Zealand has the potential to be the best player in the entire class with his versatile skillset. His running and lateral movements make him a tough outing going up against him when he’s on defense. He can shoot well beyond the three-point line making it nearly impossible to get a contest on his shot. His post-game is still raw but with more experience and added weight he will be an unstoppable force in that area. Schmidt-Uili is also a great rebounder looking to use his long arms to grab double-digit boards every game.
Ihekwaba is a strong physical presence at the center position as he likes to seek contact when in the painted area making smaller defenders look silly against him. Once he makes his mind up to put his back against the basket it’s almost an automatic basket for him as he just overpowers defenders and goes straight up for the two-handed slam. On the defensive end, he is a force to be reckoned with. His timing and instincts to block shots are something offensive players think twice about before looking to challenge him.
Highlights
Oberti is a double-double machine every game and is very skilled in the low post area with a bunch of moves at his disposal. His lengthy 6’10” size allows him to grab double-digit rebounds every game. In the post, Oberti has a soft touch around the rim. He has an effective post-hook shot he goes to when backing down defenders. His timing on offensive rebounds and putbacks gives him the advantage because of his quick decision-making to go straight up with the ball. He is also an anchor on the defensive end seemingly blocking anything in his path and coming up with every defensive rebound.
Mbaye is just filled with so much talent and potential that he could very well end up as the best center in this class once the season gets underway. At 7’2″ he moves like a guard and he has a lot of crafty and creative moves he uses to score the basketball. He has a consistent midrange shot that he likes to go to on pick-n-pops. In the post, he has a strong eye fake that always gets defenders falling for it. Mbaye can spin around in the paint and use whatever move he wants because more likely than not he will usually have the size advantage. He is quick off his feet and can guard the perimeter at times and put the ball on the floor in certain situations.
Saleh is a three-level scorer with elite two-way ability as he seems to not have many flaws in his game up to this point. Being 6’8″ gives him the ultimate flexibility to play and guard multiple positions. His offensive game is nearly impossible to stop with how quick he is with the ball along with adding the finesse he plays with. Saleh can attack the rim with force with him flying down the court to go in for the throwdown. His post moves are great with him always getting defenders in the air. He’ll use a lot of up-and-under moves around the basket. He can hit the midrange shot along with his three-point shot coming into form. On defense, he can switch onto anyone and will look to chase down block players any chance he gets.