2025 Preview: NoCo Shooting Guards

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>These guards all possess above average size on the defensive end, providing consistent value on or off the ball.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1848635' first='John' last='Backhaus'] - Windsor</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The tall guard is a consistent shooter off the catch, capable of flowing into the shot or knocking down attempts from a standstill. Backhaus brings a quick, compact form that allows him opportunities to rise above incoming contests with ease. Likely bringing an increased volume this coming season, the junior shows signs as a key floor spacer for one of the most impactful northern Front Range programs. As the guard gains strength, there is no doubt he can bring value on the defensive end, given the wide reach he already brings. Another area of intrigue will be his efficiency around the rim, playing well off the ball both as a cutter or kick out option.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1369826' first='Cade' last='Crutcher'] - Resurrection Christian</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Crutcher is continuing to get more productive handling the ball while attacking closeouts, improving his scoring options off the bounce. Gaining volume on floaters and three point attempts, the junior guard will be entering a key role for another talented Resurrection Group. Another aspect of Crutcher has been added strength, allowing him to take advantage of his wide reach at the point of attack. If there is a loose ball, he will dive for it, you can always count on his hustle. There is no doubt the guard will continue to space the floor, contributing 40% of three point attempts last season.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1479336' first='Walker' last='Shields'] - Fossil Ridge</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Shields showed value throughout the summer as a competitor on defense, all while spacing the floor on the opposite end. The junior guard was capable of stepping into three point attempts right after a pass, getting good elevation on the jumper. Defensively, Shields competes every possession, actively jumping passing lanes or getting a hand up to block an opponent shot. The guard's impact on both ends will likely play a key role for Fossil Ridge's ceiling this season.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1717268' first='Matthew' last='Angelo'] - Mead</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Angelo is a tall scoring guard who brings an efficient offensive skill set and high motor. Especially valuable attacking closeouts, the guard has a consistent handle under pressure, capable of making decisions while attacking downhill. He showed value at recognizing dump off passes once the help defense arrived, continuing to show value as a facilitator. Coming off of a productive season, posting 6.6 points and 3 rebounds for 21-5 Mead. Two areas of intrigue will be Angelo's progression as a lead guard facilitating in the half court and his ability to add strength.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1318041' first='Gage' last='Schminke'] - University</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Schminke brings a consistent motor, comfortable attacking the basket. A fairly strong guard, the junior is active on both ends of the glass. He brings great energy on the defensive end, keeping hands out to pressure opponents. His continued growth as a perimeter playmaker will be an area worth tracking, following the departure of senior Desmond Williams. Through Schminke's previous season with University, the guard posted 10 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->