Grind Region Kickoff: FROM DEEP

Ha! You likely thought the article would be about the top shooters from the 17U Divison at the PrepHoops Grind Region Kickoff. While some of these prospects can light it up from deep, this is a detailed look at a handful of prospects that really caught the eye for their longterm potential.    A lanky 6'5 wing-forward, Dixon makes for a very interesting prospect going forward. One of the first things that stood out about him was how he competed on the defensive end. High motor energy, plus awareness and his athletic profile made him very disruptive. Long arms and the, bounce to either block shots at the rim, cause havoc with deflections in passing lanes and even pick pocket sloppy handles. While he plays aggressive, he also plays smart. At one point he forced a travel on a guard by staying with him laterally then using verticality to play defense without fouling.   The ground he covers and the plays he makes on defense will surely endear him to college coaches. In the two games watched, his offense was built around off the ball movement which utilized his explosiveness as a finisher around the rim. Very intriguing prospect, who seems to have the right mindset by competing and doing the little things. All while understanding his role and current skillset.     The east coast big was playing for one of [program_tooltip program_id='2078402' first='Team' last='Griffin'] Academy's squad, and the upside was obvious. Has the skillset to play along the perimeter, while also having the size and emerging athleticism to be an interior player. On Saturday afternoon he got it going with smooth catch and shoot triples. Then flashed his possibly underrated ability to put it on the deck to attack closes out and open lanes. Was impressed with the recovery he made on a drive after the ball was knocked loose. Quinn quickly gathered it back up and still scored. The offensive skillset to play at the next level, and a high level, is clearly there.   On defense there were promising moments, including the burst he showed in a chasedown block attempt. Continuing to add to those moments on the defensive end will be crucial as his recruitment likely heats up. Because given his size and skillset, college coaches will likely ask "who can he guard" as their nitpick/concern. And especially with college basketball getting older, the quicker a player can lock in defensively, the quicker offers and eventual playing time will come.     There's something to be said for simply running your own race. The rise of Cooper-Kelley over the last year is a good case for that. Waited his turn as a freshman at a 6A program, then saw a growth spurt, that also included a boost in strength and athleticism. Which turned him into an impact player for a good Timberwolves team. He seems to be quietly stacking days, and is getting better with each viewing.   This weekend at the 17U level he was in control throughout. Making his smart gambles and havoc causing on defense. While also getting to his spots and scoring with the poise of an older player on offense. Right now, he's at his best on offense as a sneaky slasher, while also having an effective old school mid-range game. Assuming he makes strides as a three point shooter this spring and summer, look for Cooper-Kelley to be among the most impactful players in Oklahoma next winter, regardless of class.     While my focus this past weekend was the 17U Divison, there was an open window on Sunday morning and a chance to check out "who's next" in 15U was too good to pass up. Sutton is a well drilled player, who has a smooth way in how he sets up opponents to attack off the dribble. At his age group, he's a three level scorer. Fluid mid-range pull ups, knocking down open threes and a nice burst to get downhill, finishing at the rim. And there's the potential there for that to continue.   Sutton made it look easy against fellow 15U competition. Which should help earn playing time as a sophomore for one of the best high school programs in Oklahoma. Setting the stage for huge junior and senior seasons. Especially as he looks like he'll keep growing and become an even more dynamic athlete and scorer.     Physical downhill scorer, who plays with a good combination of quickness, strength and control. Stops on two feet, capable of powering through contact or hitting jumpers off the dribble. Williams Jr was particularly impressive on Sunday morning. Doesn't need much space to get off his jumper in the mid-range, with quick elevation and a good form. Definitely has a scorer's DNA, which goes well with his long arms and overall athletic gifts. Attack mode player, who makes it happen in transition and in the halfcourt.

Ha! You likely thought the article would be about the top shooters from the 17U Divison at the PrepHoops Grind Region Kickoff. While some of these prospects can light it up from deep, this is a detailed look at a handful of prospects that really caught the eye for their longterm potential.