2024 Rankings Update: Rising Forwards
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These forwards have made notable improvements throughout the summer, ready for larger roles stepping into their senior seasons. They have risen either by improving their defensive impact or rounding out their perimeter skillet on offense. Amari Chandler CO #73 SF…
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Continue ReadingThese forwards have made notable improvements throughout the summer, ready for larger roles stepping into their senior seasons. They have risen either by improving their defensive impact or rounding out their perimeter skillet on offense.
Chandler has brought improvements to his perimeter game, continuing to get more consistent on attempts beyond the arc. A sturdy forward with a low center of gravity, they do a great job of seeking out ideal matchups to attack. As he continues to progress handling the ball, Chandler has begun taking greater advantage of smaller opponents for driving lanes for finishes with either hand. Thanks to his growth handling the ball, the forward can get shots off the bounce, particularly in the mid-range following self-created looks. Defensively, he can guard up against taller opponents, certainly possessing the tools to battle down low defensively. Cherokee Trail does not have an easy schedule ahead, although we should get a good look at his impact through his senior season.
One of the new additions to the list, Langenegger is a notable forward with a size advantage and upside hitting spot-up jumpers. Particularly valuable in the paint, his impact grabbing defensive rebounds for potential transition opportunities will be essential for this new look Niwot program. Already fairly strong, he will be an intriguing low post option for this group, complemented by soft touch and consistent footwork down low.
Alleman has so much upside on the defensive end, given his wide reach and quick defensive instincts. With potential as one of the higher upside interior rim protectors, his skill set will be on full display through his final season with Thomas Jefferson. Continuing to add athleticism, the forward is throwing down dunks with a greater willingness when presented the lane. Although still possessing plenty of room for growth on the offensive side, it is tough to neglect his defensive abilities as a rim protector and defender along the perimeter. Now standing at 6’11 without shoes, Alleman will be among the best rim protectors in the state.
Nellesen is an intriguing stretch forward, knocking down an efficient clip beyond the arc throughout his previous season at Monarch and this summer. There is little opponents can do to shut him down, given his notable height advantage. Defensively, the forward is particularly valuable on help side defense, utilizing his particularly wide reach for contests on drives.
A productive forward who has continued to refine his skills over the previous years, Dante will be an exciting follower with Castle View. Gaining greater volume beyond the arc, the forward is becoming an efficient shooter from spot-up attempts when presented the opportunity. A capable athlete, Dante has gotten more athletic around the rim, capable of swatting away shots or throwing down a dunk. His 6’6 frame allows him to match up with a wide variety of opponents, certainly needed to guard up if necessary. Castle View boasts a few intriguing prospects worth a look, Dante has added plenty of excitement to that program, getting plenty of repetition against the state’s top teams.