Bracket Busters: The Two Way Players

With the playoffs just around the corner, there are a few players who could make some serious waves and shake up the brackets. These are the players who can be the difference-makers, not just on offense, but also on defense. They lock in and disrupt opposing teams with their relentless defensive efforts, causing nightmares for coaches and players alike. Expect these ballers to step up when it matters most, making pivotal plays that could lead to major upsets. Keep an eye on these players—they're ready to make an impact on both ends of the floor as the postseason begins.    [player_tooltip player_id='2132597' first='Trae' last='Dorsey'] is ready to make a statement and put the state on notice with his complete game and college-level attributes. A three-level scorer with college-sized stature, Dorsey plays with the poise and leadership necessary to guide a top-tier team. He handles the ball like an upperclassman, often playing beyond his classification. While he's the ultimate team player, he can score efficiently and consistently, forcing defenses to stay on their toes. Dorsey thrives when attacking downhill and embraces the physical side of the game, especially in the paint where he's an elite rebounder. Denham Springs' success can be largely attributed to Dorsey's ability to control the game on both ends of the floor. An obvious regular in the weight room, Dorsey's stock is set to rise as he continues to build his body and refine his already impressive skill set.     William Nelson is the type of talent that coaches dream of having come through their program. A long player with guard skills, he has already demonstrated a strong understanding of pace and poise on the court. His confidence and the trust he has earned from his teammates are remarkable for an underclassman, showcasing his leadership ability at a young age. Nelson has a solid foundation in the fundamentals and is comfortable shooting from multiple spots on the floor. He knows how to use his size to his advantage on both ends of the court and makes quick, smart decisions when he identifies a mismatch. With an elite skill set at such a young age, Nelson is on track to become a nationally recognized recruit in the class of 2028. His combination of size, strength, poise, athleticism, and basketball IQ makes him a rare and exciting talent with a bright future ahead.     Clair is a player to watch on the Louisiana Hoops scene because of his unique combination of intangibles and his ability to simply figure out the game. Despite his youth, he plays with the poise of a senior and excels in situations where decision-making is crucial. Clair is exceptional at getting to the rim, but what sets him apart is his understanding of how to make his teammates better. He knows how to set the table and create opportunities for everyone around him. In transition, he's a thrill to watch, and although he may not yet have the physical build of some older players, he has the strength to finish through contact with a variety of impressive layups. The point guard position demands a lot, and Clair checks all the boxes for his age and beyond. With the leadership mentality to guide his team, his teammates respond to him on the court, adding another layer to his status as a rising star.     [player_tooltip player_id='2132769' first='Xzavier' last='Baker'] is a shifty, do-it-all guard who plays with style and flair on a team that values fundamental basketball. An inside-outside threat, he keeps his head up and is always looking for his next move. With a quick first step, Baker effortlessly attacks defenders and can finish in a variety of ways. He's a capable three-point shooter and boasts an elite mid-range game, making him a constant scoring threat. Playing with extreme confidence, Baker is a key piece of this Dunham team, which is poised for a deep playoff run. He's a willing facilitator who can take over as the primary scorer when needed, and his strong frame allows him to play low to the ground, making him a menace on defense. With his ability to rack up steals and create fast-break opportunities, Baker is an athletic guard who genuinely seems to enjoy making plays on the defensive end.     Allen Shaw is a name you'll want to remember in Louisiana, as he's an elite two-sport athlete whose football skills translate perfectly to the basketball court. Known for being a bully on the floor, Shaw is an electric defender and a versatile offensive weapon, capable of producing both on and off the ball. He's the ultimate team player, often passing up good shots to set up better opportunities for his teammates. Playing alongside two of the premier bigs in the state requires sacrifice, and Shaw's playmaking, defensive efforts, and selflessness are key reasons why his team is one of the best in the state. As he matures, his role will undoubtedly expand, but his skill set and basketball mentality are already primed for increased responsibility. Be sure to add this tenacious athlete to your scout board because, as he continues to develop, he's only going to show more in the coming years.

With the playoffs just around the corner, there are a few players who could make some serious waves and shake up the brackets. These are the players who can be the difference-makers, not just on offense, but also on defense. They lock in and disrupt opposing teams with their relentless defensive efforts, causing nightmares for coaches and players alike. Expect these ballers to step up when it matters most, making pivotal plays that could lead to major upsets. Keep an eye on these players—they're ready to make an impact on both ends of the floor as the postseason begins.