K-Low Elite vs. DMV Showcase: Frontcourt eye-catchers

3SSB stalwart [program_tooltip program_id='2078682' first='K-Low' last='Elite'] hosted a mini-jamboree on Saturday afternoon with DMV powers [program_tooltip program_id='2077004' first='Team' last='Takeover'] of the EYBL and [program_tooltip program_id='2077005' first='Team' last='Thrill'] of the UAA heading up I-95 for a series of scrimmages across all three high school age groups. After taking in a few sets of action, we compiled the following standouts among a handful of talented frontcourt prospects.    Continuing to get his feet wet on the circuit level after a breakout junior season in Delaware, Obiora impressed consistently on both ends of the floor with his blend of physical tools, activity, and innate feel for the game. Blessed with naturally graceful and twitchy movement skills to go with plus length, he covers ground rapidly across all situations before popping off the ground for contests or finishes. He switches seamlessly across frontcourt spots and impressed while putting up a respectable fight against more physical players in the post. Where Obiora really intrigues though is with his natural sense for positioning on either end and his steadily emerging skill as a passer, particularly working downhill in short-roll situations. He's still in the process of putting it all together at this level of competition, but the upside is apparent as the 16-year-old continues to stack positive days in his development.     Returning to help lead the storied Takeover program on the 16U level, Abass stood out with his two-way approach and evolving skillset in the frontcourt. Battle-tested through multiple years of rotation minutes in the heat of the WCAC, he brings a maturity beyond his years, quarterbacking the defense with an advanced level of communication and staying steadily receptive to coaching. With quick feet and an increasingly lean and muscular frame, he shows glimpses of high-level versatility defensively that figure to be his calling card at the next level. Offensively, Abass is a natural bruiser inside but has gradually expanded his game, incorporating some basic skill with the ball and an increasingly comfortable standstill 3-point stroke. Even with the increased focus on the transfer portal, it wouldn't be surprising for a few low or mid majors to throw early offers Abass' way by the end of the summer.     Coming off a standout freshman season in which he was a double-double machine, Sloane-Marks looks like he'll be a frequent standout among his age group with a chance to really break out across the state over the next year. Hailing from the same hometown as lottery pick and [program_tooltip program_id='2077005' first='Team' last='Thrill'] legend Jarace Walker, the southpaw shines at the 15U level with his ability to play effectively inside and out while sliding seamlessly across forward positions. Young for his grade with great positional size and blossoming fluidity, Sloane-Marks plays with consistent activity while shining in transition with a budding halfcourt skillset out to the perimeter. While coaches aren't focusing much on the 15U level right now, it's clear the makings of a high-level prospect are all there for the young wing forward with proper development in years to come.     Both literally and figuratively a massive addition for a [program_tooltip program_id='2077005' first='Team' last='Thrill'] 17U looking to add to the program's UAA trophy case, Ibe stands out on any court with his towering size and length in the middle. An imposing rim protector who shows timing and technique to pair with his natural physical gifts, he helped put a lid on the rim as the centerpiece of an intense team-wide defensive approach. Where Ibe impressed most on Saturday was with his developing skillset on the offensive end, showing comfortable post moves over either shoulder and an increased level of physicality in the paint. He's unlikely to be a fit for programs that require a high level of perimeter skill or decisionmaking from their bigs, but it's clear Ibe has the tools and the understanding of what he is to thrive within the right role at the highest levels of D1.     Coming off a freshman season cutting his teeth mostly at the JV level, Knight is getting his first real dose of high-level competition this spring but you wouldn't know it based on his play Saturday afternoon. Built like an SEC left tackle with the set of hands and feet to match, he quickly imposed his will on the game in the paint while throwing his body around for multiple efforts to carve out position on the block or hitting the offensive glass. He has work to do on his technique around the rim but shows an understanding of leverage, how to use his power, and hints of natural touch that provide a strong foundation to work with moving forward. Productive at this stage already and in a strong setting for his development in years to come, look for Knight to emerge as one of the more effective bigs in the Philly area (and potentially beyond) at some point down the line as he continues gaining reps and experience.

3SSB stalwart K-Low Elite hosted a mini-jamboree on Saturday afternoon with DMV powers Team Takeover of the EYBL and Team Thrill of the UAA heading up I-95 for a series of scrimmages across all three high school age groups. After taking in a few sets of action, we compiled the following standouts among a handful of talented frontcourt prospects.