Midwest Live: Friday Guard Standouts

Midwest Live brought out dozens of college coaches from every level to the Cedar Point Sports Center to scout the best talent Ohio and Michigan have to offer. In this article we'll break down five standout guards from the action.    In a marquee battle of some of the most talented teams in their respective states, McKenney and Orchard Lake St. Mary's were on a mission going up 18-0 Vs Reynoldsburg to start the game. McKenney was getting after it on the defensive end of the court with multiple steals that turned into transition buckets. A tough shot maker, McKenney can knock down contested turnarounds and spot-up jumpers. Also possessing a college ready frame, McKenney has an excellent body and used the strength on both ends. I was really impressed with McKenney's overall impact on winning and defensive production. One of the top wing guards in the 2025 class nationally.     I had a late change to my schedule which allowed me to catch Toledo Central Catholic a day early. I was impressed with how Johnson shot the ball from 3-point range, a key swing skill for him. Skilled with both hands, Johnson had a couple lefty finishes at the rim and made some passes with his left hand as well. With a ton of upside physically left to reach and skilled with the ball in his hands, Johnson looks poised to become one of the top guards in Ohio's 2026 class when it's all said and done.     One of the top shooters in the midwest, Elwer was getting to his spots for Delphos St John's on Friday. While everybody knows about his elite 3-point game, I was impressed with how Elwer found the range to score inside the arc. Doing a nice job of creating contact first and playing off defenders, Elwer can use his body to get the right angle and position to shoot and score. When he gets a head of steam, Elwer is shifty enough to get around the first defender at the rim to score as well. One of the most productive high school players in northwest Ohio, Elwer has already become a staple for regional high school fans, expect his college offers to come soon as well.     Having a great day in both games, Washington was productive for a Margaretta squad that's coming off a regional final appearance. Making shots from 3-point range is key for Washington and he knocked down maybe four in the game I caught. An impressive athlete, Washington is tough to stay in front of at the point of attack and even shiftier in transition. His athleticism allows him to make an impact defensively with an impressive block from behind. One of the more naturally talented prospects to come through the Sandusky Bay Conference in a long time, Washington brought a handful of Division I coaches to his games as his offer and interest list continues to grow.     Elyria has a talented squad with a nice blend of 2025 and 2026 talent. After catching them at the Ashland Team Camp, I wanted to get a second look at their team this month and caught a competitive battle with Delphos St John's. Grimmett makes shots off the catch with his feet set, playing well off Elyria's star wings. Also able to attack long closeouts off the bounce and move his feet defensively with a good body, Grimmett checks a lot of boxes. Should be a breakout star for Elyria and will likely get small college recruiting attention starting next spring.

Midwest Live brought out dozens of college coaches from every level to the Cedar Point Sports Center to scout the best talent Ohio and Michigan have to offer. In this article we'll break down five standout guards from the action.