The Heat Check Ruston Edition: Underclassmen to Watch

The Heat Check kicked off a series of highly anticipated events hosted by Donnels Cann in Ruston, Louisiana, attracting teams from across Louisiana and East Texas. This inaugural tournament provided a thrilling platform for young athletes, highlighting standout players ready to transition from middle school to high school, as well as underclassmen gearing up to move from Freshman teams to Junior Varsity and Varsity basketball.    [player_tooltip player_id='2623511' first='Joseph' last='Metoyer']'s growth was evident all weekend, showcasing a rising skill set that excels in both on- and off-ball situations. Combining size and athleticism, he effectively competes against larger guards. Metoyer scores efficiently from mid-range, drives to the lane with confidence, and demonstrates the ability to facilitate for his teammates. As a dedicated gym rat with a three-point shooting range, he is certainly a player to watch as he continues to develop his game.     Polly is a fast guard who showcased his scoring ability throughout the entire weekend. His game revolves around getting to the rim and playing strong with two feet in the lane. With the size and strength to score through physical contact, he embraces the tough aspects of the game. As he continues to grow and develop, he is definitely a player to watch for future success.     Kennedy showcased his size and strength throughout the showcase, opting to attack the paint instead of settling for three-point attempts. Dominating in the post, he proved nearly unstoppable. While he can operate effectively away from the basket, his quick decision-making allows him to consistently identify mismatches to either score or set up teammates. A physical player with strong rebounding skills, Kennedy utilizes his size to gain an advantage in every situation, making him a formidable presence on the court.     Brooks was one of the standout players in the gym, demonstrating a high motor and impressive skill level. He is not only a trusted scorer but also unselfish, using the opportunity to showcase his playmaking abilities. His speed and athleticism consistently frustrated opponents on both ends of the court, making his game fun to watch. With continued growth, he could become a key contender in the "next up" conversations in North Louisiana, potentially earning a spot on the already loaded Huntington High School Varsity squad.     Carter Cook is a hidden gem within the Shreveport area, and his elite game was on full display in the gym. A versatile player, he can effectively operate in the post or on the wing, shooting the three-ball or posting up. His exceptional footwork highlighted his versatility throughout each game. Playing with confidence and intensity while maintaining control, Cook demonstrated a high basketball IQ. As he continues to grow at Evangel, he is certainly a prospect to watch, adding his name to the list of intriguing players emerging from Louisiana.

The Heat Check kicked off a series of highly anticipated events hosted by Donnels Cann in Ruston, Louisiana, attracting teams from across Louisiana and East Texas. This inaugural tournament provided a thrilling platform for young athletes, highlighting standout players ready to transition from middle school to high school, as well as underclassmen gearing up to move from Freshman teams to Junior Varsity and Varsity basketball.