Coach Burns Mega Scrimmage: Guard Standouts
In this article:
The Coach Burns Mega Scrimmage brought 15 teams to the NEO Sports Plant for one of the best preseason events in Ohio. In this article I'll break down my standout guard performers from the day of action.
One of the top defensive guards in Ohio, Hill was getting after it on the defensive end of the court with tremendous on-ball pressure. Hill also won the game with a steal as a help side defender on a drive from a Canton McKinley guard. Taking charges as well, Hill puts his body on the line for his team. Hoping to see Hill continue to gain confidence as a spot-up shooter and secondary distributor in the half-court this winter with a loaded Lutheran East squad.
Highlights
Thompson had a really nice showing as a downhill attacker off the dribble, making some tough finishes off two feet in the paint. Thompson plays with no fear in his eyes and wants to go at the top players on the other team. Impressed with his scoring and ball handling ability against a top team, Thompson did force the issue a couple times but you'll take that with how often he's successful by being aggressive as an attacker. Canton McKinley has a lot of talent on their roster and they looked impressive even without
Jamar Keyes Jr
Jamar
Keyes Jr
6'7" | PF
McKinley | 2027
State
OH
who should provide an extra offensive punch with good size.
Highlights
This was my first time really getting to watch Melton play and safe to say he impressed. I liked how Melton played fast with the ball in his hands but didn't look rushed while on the ball. Melton provided a lot of rim pressure as a downhill attacker and even tried playing above the rim with a poster dunk attempt. Big fan of what Melton brings to the table, I expect a breakout season for him at Saint Ignatius after waiting his turn on an experienced team as a freshman.
Highlights
The new look Panthers impressed on Saturday with some impressive wins against top talent. Asberry made shots off the catch and fit in with a top defensive team. While I was most impressed with the depth and amount of players who made an impact for Euclid, Asberry stood out as their most talented scorer as just a sophomore. With Head Coach Quentin Rogers bringing in talent from around the area, including Asberry from his old job at Richmond Heights, Euclid is a team to watch this winter.
Highlights
The freshman Gambrell impressed for a Padua squad that was maybe my biggest surprise of the day. Gambrell is an impressive athlete and didn't look out of place at all as a freshman on varsity. Making some plays as a slasher, finding success going up in the paint or making a live dribble pass to a teammate. Gambrell also had some bright flashes as a defender, something that is required to see the floor as a freshman. Don't sleep on Padua this winter!
