2024’s to Watch in the MPA
In this article:
Year after year, the Maine Principal’s Association (MPA) consistently produces college level talent in boys’ basketball. However, the northeastern most state in the country often doesn’t get the recognition it deserves as a state that is passionate about its hoops!…
Access all of Prep Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingYear after year, the Maine Principal’s Association (MPA) consistently produces college level talent in boys’ basketball. However, the northeastern most state in the country often doesn’t get the recognition it deserves as a state that is passionate about its hoops! Hopefully this year we can change that, and we’ll start today by covering some of the top MPA prospects in the class of 2024.
Gabe Galaragga
Gabe Galaragga
The two-time state champion is a good athlete that has developed into a real inside-out threat over the past 12 months. He has the ability to play above the rim and showed glimpses this summer of the ability to be a rebound-and-go guy as a decision maker in transition. With a college-ready build and above average lateral mobility, Galaragga is already a quality defender with the ability to switch on screens and guard the perimeter.
Ashton Leclerc
Ashton Leclerc
One of the state’s best scorers last season, Leclerc is adept at getting to his spots. Not the most athletic or dynamic, he just knows how to play. He’s a high-level shooter that knows how to find his spots within the flow of the offense. Defensively, he’s a little undersized, but makes up for it with a solid understanding of the game and where he needs to be within a team scheme.
Zach McLaughlin Zach McLaughlin 6'1" | CG Hampden Academy | 2024 State New E
Zach McLaughlin Zach McLaughlin 6'1" | CG Hampden Academy | 2024 State New E
Maybe the most dynamic scorer in the state, McLaughlin’s game has improved as much as anyone’s in the past year. He is a true three-level scorer, although right now he’s at his best when he’s attacking the rim. Plays with surprising athleticism that indicates his skill set should translate to the next level and also shows that he could be a disruptor on the defensive end. With a college ready body, scoring mindset, and solid athleticism, he’s a prospect that should be on the radar of numerous college programs before the season ends.
Chance Mercier Chance Mercier 5'11" | CG Ellsworth | 2024 State New E
Chance Mercier Chance Mercier 5'11" | CG Ellsworth | 2024 State New E
Had arguably the most impressive season in the state statistically last year. More of an off-guard than a true lead-guard, Mercier impresses in transition and as a three-level scorer. While he has a high basketball IQ and is a gifted natural scorer, his most impressive attribute might be his competitiveness. He’s a guy that’s going to do whatever is needed for his team to win and should be able to fill a variety of backcourt roles at the next level.
Evans Sterling
Evans Sterling
True wings seem to be at a premium in this class; Sterling is probably the best of the bunch. He’s a solid athlete that showed an ability to score above the rim last winter while also making great strides with his jump shot. He can guard up and down a spot and shows a willingness to rebound on the defensive end. He shines in transition, where he can use his quickness and athleticism to make plays both for himself and for others.
Pierce Walston Pierce Walston 5'11" | PG Orono | 2024 State New E
Pierce Walston Pierce Walston 5'11" | PG Orono | 2024 State New E
After leading his team to a state championship last winter, the dual sport athlete (football) had an impressive spring and summer on the travel circuit. A natural leader, Walston is efficient running his team and does a good job of finding his guys in spots where they can be effective. He put up huge numbers across the board last season and is another guy who is ultra-competitive.