Emerging Stars: Big School

Scott Strode November 30, 2024 @ 03:19 PM

These players are likely to have big seasons whether it be scoring or just playing their respective roles. They've shown huge potential and now have the opportunity to shine.   [player_tooltip player_id='2313271' first='Evan' last='Hughes'] has stretched out to an imposing 6'6" and will have ample opportunity on this young and talented Knights squad to be a huge difference maker. From Hughes film and stats from previous season, he could be and maybe should be a walking double double every night out. At least, that should be the goal. A 4A squad without any true big or post player, Cabell Midland could rely on Hughes for interior support on both ends and he has the talents to get it done.   [player_tooltip player_id='2395960' first='Lucas' last='Raney'] should see plenty of floor time and while some of the Flying Eagle studs are garnering much attention from opponents defenses, Raney could take advantage and make them pay. He shoots it at a high rate and defends well enough to be a key player in the 4A division. Look for Raney to have some breakout moments this season whether he starts or comes off the bench.   [player_tooltip player_id='2605714' first='Zay' last='Hall'] packs about as much raw talent and athleticism as one kid can in a 5'9"ish frame. He's quick, he's fast, he's bouncy and finishes at the rim. He can play point or compliment someone else at point. Also a player that can guard 94 feet and be a problem for opponents ball handlers. Being a year older and having a great cast of studs around him, Hall will have some Wow moments this season.   [player_tooltip player_id='2337570' first='Kayden' last='Knapp'] was certainly his teams best all around player by the end of last year and seemed to put up double doubles frequently. A banger on the boards and put back specialist, Knapp has an incredible nose for the ball and plays well against bigger defenders. The Monarch's quarterback in the fall uses his great anticipation and good feet to track rebounds and make quick moves around defenders. Those that haven't heard of him will this year.   [player_tooltip player_id='2633207' first='Bryer' last='Mullins'] is coming off a great offseason including an incredible AAU season where he shined in several tournaments and certainly impressed us when we saw him. Just a sophomore, Mullins has a strong skill set and plays downhill with a purpose on both ends. I think this is a name we'll hear quite often from the Riverside squad.   [player_tooltip player_id='2340458' first='Marshall' last='Dorado'] transferred to Expressions Prep (we will lump them with big schools) this year and looking to make a huge jump in improvement and raise his level of play. Dorado is athletic and strong for a guard at his age and will have the opportunity to work on his game while being alongside other rising players in that program. Look for him to start making noise in the second half of the season and have some highlight moments.   [player_tooltip player_id='2561856' first='Mitch' last='Cox'] who's also in the Expressions Prep program has already had a broke out season early. Mixing in some athletic plays, exceptional passing, big time contested three's and even showing his hops with a few dunks. Cox is a special talent and is showing he could be at a higher level than previously projected.   [player_tooltip player_id='2462324' first='Tyler' last='Peros'] is the workout warrior we've came to know and admire for his obvious work in the offseason training rooms. Peros is a big and imposing guard who can guard up to four spots, shoots it well enough you have to account for him and has the strength and length to be a problem off the dribble. He'll help make a push to Charleston for the Winfield Generals squad and if he gets there he'll surely create a buzz if not before.

These players are likely to have big seasons whether it be scoring or just playing their respective roles. They've shown huge potential and now have the opportunity to shine.