2024 Rankings Update: The Top 5
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Andrew Crawford CO #1 CG #1 HEIGHT 6'6" POS CG CLASS 2024 View Profile Andrew Crawford Instagram Twitter State: Colorado School: ThunderRidge Club: KC Run GMC Crawford remains atop the class as the leader for the state’s most talented roster…
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Continue ReadingCrawford remains atop the class as the leader for the state’s most talented roster in ThunderRidge. Effective attacking the rim for athletic finishes with either hand while remaining dangerous facilitating in the halfcourt. Active passing the ball on kickouts, the 6’6 guard has a unique blend of vision and guard skills unusual among prospects at his height. His versatility on the defensive end is particularly valuable for an already massive ThunderRidge program. Active utilizing his wide reach to deflect passes or get up to block shots, Crawford returns as the face of a program vying for the 6A title.
Austin has been nothing short of excellent throughout the summer and previous season with Pueblo South. Pushing that team to a Great 8 appearance, the lead guard does just about everything you could ask for. Through high level decision making under chaotic circumstances, Austin finds ways to blow past the defense for finishes around the rim or quick pull-ups. Given the immense gravity he commands, Austin has been consistent passing out of double teams, finding the open man. Defensively, he is strong against bigger opponents, leveraging his low center of gravity to hold his position. Another area of value has been his ability to read the opponents, snatching passes in traffic to get going in transition.
Spann is a strong downhill scorer whose quick first step and raw power has catapulted him into a high volume scoring role. Certainly productive scoring around the rim, they do an excellent job gaining immediate entry into the middle, leveraging position for finishes or pull-ups in the mid-range. Particularly productive attacking the rim for putbacks, Spann can get up for second chance opportunities with ease. Although a high volume scoring threat, his growth as a facilitator will be important for ThunderRidge’s long term success, given the gravity he possesses while getting downhill. When committed, he is one of the tougher matchups at the point of attack, bringing a unique blend of strength and quickness at his size.
Caldwell brings very unique offensive skills as a stretch big man, continuing to refine his perimeter shooting on spot-up attempts. There simply are not many guys at his height who bring consistency stretching out the floor. If against a favorable matchup in the post, Caldwell can get to pivot finishes or short hook shots when presented the opportunity. Defensively, they possess a wide reach that stifles drives, particularly for incoming guards. He has continued to improve his discipline while defending the rim, fouling less and committing to both arms straight up. At his best on the help side, Caldwell and Lutheran will be an incredibly difficult program to contain both on the glass and in the paint.
Carter is lightning quick in transition, utilizing his supreme vision and awareness to maximize his quick pace of play. There are few opponents who can match his acceleration, complemented by a twitchy handle to free up space on drives. Not to mention his three point shooting has continued to progress over previous seasons. Defensively, the guard is quick laterally and vertically, getting up with ease to contest shots at the rim. Carter continues to refine his skillset as a dynamic lead guard, likely taking Chaparral to a notable playoff stretch this year.