Top 5 Deep Dive: 2024 Centers
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The senior crop of centers are an intriguing group. 80% of our top five are committed to play high major basketball. Each of these five centers has a unique skill set, and we’ll dive into them now. Donnie Freeman FL…
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Continue ReadingThe senior crop of centers are an intriguing group. 80% of our top five are committed to play high major basketball. Each of these five centers has a unique skill set, and we’ll dive into them now.
Donnie Freeman Donnie Freeman 6’9″ | C IMG | 2024 State FL is a 6’10 Big with the size, skill, and athleticism to play both frontcourt positions. He’s agile on both ends of the fort and moves like a wing when coming off screens. He’s a valuable shot maker from the midrange and three point line. Freeman is a god off movement shooter who can use four screens and pin downs to get open looks. He’s flashed an off the dribble game as a slasher and acts a vertical threat when rolling to the rim. Has a great frame but is a bit slim for the position. Solid room protector and rebounder. He plays with an edge, especially when matching up against other highly regarded bigs.
Ibrahima Traore Ibrahima Traore 6’9″ | C West Oaks | 2024 State #193 Nation FL ‘s jump from mid-major prospect to Oregon signee is more about his mentality than his game. He’s always looking the part of a big time basketball player because of his 6’9 and muscular frame. The mindset shift has allowed him to use tools to dominate the paint. He rebounds his area and finishes with force. He moves with purpose, and it’s helped him become a double-double machine even when playing against Grind Session competition.
Ian Smikle Ian Smikle 6’9″ | C Suncoast | 2024 State FL has all the tools to have a successful career at the next level. He’s improved his conditioning once again, allowing him to run the run and improve his mobility. He’s strong in the post and has the footwork to shake defenders on the block. He’s a physical rebounder, a good inside scorer with both hands, and uses his size to clog the paint.
The University of Florida commit has an undeniable size at 7’6. While he’s still a raw prospect, few in the state obstruct the rim like Rioux. He’ll benefit from working with Division 1 trainers to improve his mobility.