Postseason 2024: SWFL Players to Watch, Second Five
We have closed out the 2023-24 regular season, and look forward to postseason play which tips-off this week. Every team starts fresh with a record of 0-0 and with a win or go home attitude anything can happen throughout these…
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Continue ReadingWe have closed out the 2023-24 regular season, and look forward to postseason play which tips-off this week. Every team starts fresh with a record of 0-0 and with a win or go home attitude anything can happen throughout these playoffs. A number of SWFL teams would like to build on their successful regular season campaign, and make a deep run into the postseason. Let’s take a close look at some prospects who have excelled on the court and hope to lead their teams through the postseason, in hopes of cutting down the nets.
Jaden Wolner
Jaden Wolner
Wolner, who just recently joined the 1,000 point club, has been Mr. Everything for Naples this year. The 6’4″ CG has scored multiple 20+ point, and multiple 30+ point games this season, including a season-high of 45. He has great size for his position and is a strong kid who can score on all 3-levels. He has the ability to knock down the outside shot, but really excels at attacking the basket, where he can finish with both hands while absorbing the contact. He’s an above-average defender who can guard multiple positions and won’t back down from any assignment. Look for Naples to lean heavily on Wolner in postseason play, and try and make a run at the district title.
Sam Powell
Sam Powell
The dual-sport athlete has been huge for Golden Gate all season long, where he has amassed 420 total points, including 66 three’s made on the year. He has only been held to single-digit scoring 2 times the entire season, and is a player who can take over and score in bunches. Powell never takes a play off and with his size and strength is a huge asset both on the boards and defensively for the Titans. He is averaging 17.5 ppg and 5.6 rpg, and looks to put his team on his shoulders and help lead them to postseason success.
Marcus Kelley Jr.
Marcus Kelley Jr.
Kelley Jr. has helped lead this Tritons squad to a 15-9 record playing one of the toughest schedules in the area, and the #1 seed in their district. He has been extremely productive this season, averaging 16.5 ppg, 6.5 rpg, and 3.7 apg. He scored a season-high of 29 points twice on the year, and has posted multiple double-doubles. The 6’1″ PG has a great knowledge of the game, and is a pesky defender who will pressure you for 94 ft. and look to turn defense into offense. Kelly Jr. is one of leaders of this senior-heavy team, who has their eyes set not only on a district championship, but also a deep run into the postseason.
Lambert is a long, athletic prospect who plays the game hard, and just enjoys being on the court. He has great speed and jumping ability, where he excels in transition and likes to play above the rim. He’s great a rebounder on both ends of the floor and can guard any position. Not only does he lead with his play, but he is also a vocal leader for this Pirates squad. Lambert is a smart player who can score on all 3-levels and also has great court vision and is a tremendous passer. He has helped lead Port Charlotte to a 13-10 record and the #2 seed in their district, who have hopes of securing that district title.