Names worth knowing, who can shine in their roles.

The High School season is on the horizon. We will talk about the stars and centerpieces a lot as the high school season gets going. This article will focus on the role players and the glue guys who can make the teams go. Every team needs them, and the truth is, when the stars cancel each other out, the role players are the ones who can make all the difference in a win or a loss. Let's take a look at a few who could make an impact this season.    Smith is a polished, poised combo guard that can be a steady, calming presence for his team. Smith is not flashy; he is effective, fundamentally sound, and has all the makings of a highly successful system player. He plays both sides of the ball under control and disciplined, and he is the type of player that coaches like because he is always in the right position and allows the game to come to him. He makes the right decision with the ball in his hands and moves well, affecting the game in other ways even when the ball is not finding him..     Russell has impressive size, and when he's fully engaged, he can impact the game on both ends of the floor by controlling the boards. If he maintains his energy and effort, he could easily average a double-double this year. He's also a strong shot blocker and can finish above the rim with power, bringing energy to his teammates. While he may play more of a secondary role this season, he has the potential to become a top prospect in the area if he keeps expanding his skill set while capitalizing on his strengths on the court.     Whittington is a player determined to make an impact. He's someone you can rely on to play the right way and focus on the fundamentals. He won't over-dribble, take too many bad shots, or slack off on defense. He's ready to catch and shoot, and he makes smart reads. This season, expect him to keep developing and finding ways to contribute to winning. As his ball-handling improves and his confidence grows, he could become a key player by consistently making the right plays.     Oster is a tough, passionate, and energetic player who gives his all on the court. He's a willing passer, spreading the ball around effectively when handling primary guard duties. With a solid mid-range game, he can score in bunches when getting into the teeth of the defense. Oster is also a capable on-ball defender who can step up in pressure situations. This season, he'll finally have the chance to be a key piece for his team, and the added responsibility should help him thrive.     Rivero is a perimeter scoring threat who makes solid reads in pick-and-roll actions. He has a reliable jumper and, while streaky at times, has the confidence to take the next shot. If he improves his passing out of pick-and-roll situations, he'll become even harder to guard. Rivero can also play off the ball as a floor spacer and excels in catch-and-shoot situations. Defensively, he has the potential to be a solid team defender. This season will depend on his ability to make the right reads and plays. If he succeeds, he could become a player who makes smart, simple plays that contribute to winning.     Benz is a tall, lanky player who operates both around the basket and on the perimeter. At first glance, his build brings to mind a shorter Chet Holmgren. Benz is capable of blocking shots, grabbing rebounds, and is a solid shooter and facilitator in the high post. He has the advantage of playing on the perimeter at times instead of being fixed to the paint, which gives him opportunities to develop at his natural position if he reaches the next level. If Benz continues to develop, gets stronger, and improves his ability to contain perimeter ball handlers and funnel them to help defense, he could significantly enhance his prospects as a collegiate player and make a big impact for his team this year.

The High School season is on the horizon. We will talk about the stars and centerpieces a lot as the high school season gets going. This article will focus on the role players and the glue guys who can make the teams go. Every team needs them, and the truth is, when the stars cancel each other out, the role players are the ones who can make all the difference in a win or a loss. Let's take a look at a few who could make an impact this season.