Hustle Region Finals: The Best 15U Wings and Forwards

These athletes proved capable matching up with multiple positions, adept at setting the tone on defense. While bringing in a wide range of skillsets, these athletes all proved capable as versatile defenders who made opponents work on both ends.    Possibly the most impactful wing within this age group, Haslerig's production and efficient scoring aided [program_tooltip program_id='2144495' first='Team' last='Elevate'] in a 3-1 effort this weekend. Capable attacking closeouts, he is a fluid ball handler while attacking full speed. Adept converting finishes at the rim with either hand, he was an impressive scorer around the rim, particularly for this age group. Haslerig was possibly the most refined two-way prospect at his 6'4 frame, within the 15U division. Knocking down a few three pointers behind the arc, Haslerig is especially refined at this stage in his career, set for a viable high school career in due time. Alternatively on the defensive end, he was flying all over the pace on help defense, levearging his wide reach and mobility to disrupt opposing shotmakers.     Maingu was instrumental in Kansas Players success, bringing in a wiry frame to guard up when necessary. His high motor around the rim combined with the aggressive help defense played into that group's identity as a gritty and aggressive defensive team. Routinely flying all over for doubles and helping defense to mitigate uncontested shot attempts, Maingu added another layer of depth to this group on the defensive end.     Carlson's wide reach provided 5280 with immediate rim protection value, fairly mobile at his height. Bringing in active hands while cnotesting drives or shots along the perimeter, Carlson is already an intriguing defneisve prospect at this stage. The forward looked to back down opponents in the post, capable converting turnaround hooks and pivot moves against ideal matchups. His defensive upside cannot be overlooked, bringing plenty of value protecting the rim at this age group.     Smith brings in an impressive frame for his grad class, excellent playing on or off the ball. Adept at slipping the screen past over aggressive perimeter defense, he alraedy has quick instincts to read the defense. A physical prospect, his hard screens created numerous scoring looks for playmakers with this Collective-Andrews group. He put the ball on the floor quite a few times, most dependable while attacking the rim with the right hand.     Schustedt provided dependable passing out of the elbows or high post to cutting teammates, willing to set up teammates with great looks in the paint. Often attempting short jumpers if the pass or hand-off is not there, he is getting more confident attempting such shots thanks to his height advantage. Defensively, Schustedt was the beneficicary of plenty of blocks, excellent rotating in a timely manner onto opposing drivers.     Cook's active hands and assertiveness protecting the rim kept Hardwood competitive throughout the majority of their matchups. Bringing in a wide reach at roughly 6'4, the forward was tasked with defending the biggest opponents, holding his own in the post. Cook's continued growth along the perimeter will be key to determining his upside at the varsity level, although his defensive motor and toughness cannot be overlooked.

These athletes proved capable matching up with multiple positions, adept at setting the tone on defense. While bringing in a wide range of skillsets, these athletes all proved capable as versatile defenders who made opponents work on both ends.