Friday Focus: Available 2025s

An double header in Norman, with an afternoon at the YFAC to watch a strong Class 5A Lawton MacArthur squad, then the top available seniors in the Crosstown Clash.    Big frame guard, who thrived in a set up role in an dominating Friday afternoon win for the Highlanders. Good vision as a creator, including true no looks where he fired good passes to open teammates. Strong off the dribble, finished well at the rim. On defense, he was a hunter who forced turnovers to complete his showing as an all around guard. The clear leader for a tough Mac squad, and he should have big time moments come February when the playoffs come around.     Bailey has the type of shot that when his feet are set and he gets a good look, you'd swear it's always going in. Which it often did in Mac's victory on Friday afternoon. Very good rhythm shooter, with ideal size and wingspan for an off the ball guard. Solid athlete, would've preferred to see him finish a late transition layup with a dunk instead, but the room for athleticism to grow is there. Transferred over to the Highlanders after playing at rival Eisenhower, should be a name for Region 2 JuCos to check on in the spring.     Few forwards in the 405 are having a more productive start to the year than Amous for Norman. When the Tigers raced out an early lead, it was on the back of Amous being too strong, too active and explosive around the rim. Had a highlight reel slam in transition. But most of his damage was on the offensive glass or establishing deep position and scoring strongly at the rim. Continues to be a strong target for Region 2 JuCo programs who are looking for a hardhat wearing forward, who plays bigger than his size. Had 20 and 12 on the night.     Double digit scoring game, with 14 points for the do it all wing. Helped out on the glass with 4 boards as well. Can be tough off the dribble, with a bit of a herky jerky, unpredictable style. He also benefits from his long arms giving him more finishing angles. Will knock down open shots. Type of balanced player that often finds way to help Norman get it done in ways even beyond the boxscore.     The usually impressive scoring Green was held a bit in check but he caught the eye for the toughness and versatility he showed on defense. Was the Timberwolf who stepped up in the second half and did a better job of containing Amous in the paint. While also still having the agility and tenacity to switch out onto guards. Scoring should come this year for Green, but the ready to battle mentality he showed in the second half will be crucial for the Timberwolves to make a playoff run.     An ankle injury wiped out Bauman's scrimmage season. Leading to the intriguing wing-forward prospect to have flashes but overall a slow start for the Timberwolves. Perhaps clutch plays in the rivalry contest will be the catalyst to jump start his senior season.   It was a late triple by Bauman that tied up the game and sent it to overtime. In the extra possession, he made the type of athletic, hustle play that should help endear him to college coaches. He crashed the glass and got a huge tip in that cut the deficit to one. There was more of that energy on Friday night, the same energy that made him a high flying prospect this past summer. Mix in some more toughness around the rim, and the signs are there for Bauman to finish his senior season strong and be a very interesting option to colleges.     It's another week, it's another strong performance from the old school floor general. Tough and quick with the ball on drives, often looking to set up his teammates over scoring himself. Even though he's proven to be a reliable finisher and can hit off of pull ups.   Pride and attention to detail set him apart defensively. Usually has one moment each game where he harasses a ballhandler into turning and then "pulls the chair out" to force a turnover. Played with more composure down the stretch, making right passes to teammates, scoring when needed and valuing the ball more. Is one of the late bloomers of Oklahoma's class of 2025, with clear collegiate traits.

An double header in Norman, with an afternoon at the YFAC to watch a strong Class 5A Lawton MacArthur squad, then the top available seniors in the Crosstown Clash.