Bash In The Desert: Prospects With Real Bounce (17U)

In this article, I feature prospects in the 17U division who flashed their potential with their ability to get up and throw one down.    [player_tooltip player_id='2450360' first='Noah' last='Grossman'] was certainly one of the more bouncy athletes getting up at the Prep Hoops Bash in the Desert. He takes a strong penultimate step before exploding toward the rim. He is both a threat to throw it down in transition and on lobs when his teammates put it in the right spot. Outside of his high-flying abilities, he knocked down some solid shots and was constantly hustling on the defensive end. His impact is certainly noticeable, and I like how he can make momentum-swinging plays for his team.     It was my first time catching Davey Harris play at the Prep Hoops Bash in the Desert, and he no doubt entertained while also playing quality basketball. He put his vertical on full display and had one of the more memorable dunks of the weekend, throwing down a tough 360 with authority. He also leverages his height, wingspan, and quickness on defense to give his matchup problems. Overall, he's an intriguing prospect who could boost his stock in the coming months if he continues making the right plays while producing both stats and highlights.     [player_tooltip player_id='2249943' first='Lleyton' last='Leonard'] is a can't-miss prospect whenever he's out on the court. He can essentially catapult himself into the air whenever he wants to rise up for a dunk, and he throws them down with real force. He also uses his long strides to close out on opponents defensively and is the type of player who can block shots or deflect passes when teams try to throw it over him. The tools and size are definitely there, and it'll be exciting to see how he continues to get his name out there this AAU season.     Ja'mir Smith stands around 6'7”, which comes in handy on both ends of the floor. Defensively, he contests shots, alters looks at the rim, and is disruptive. On offense, he can splash in shots from downtown and isn't a player opponents should necessarily challenge at the rim, as he's capable of throwing down some serious slam dunks. The upside is definitely there, and he definitely looks the part of a college prospect.     Ker Lual of Vegas Elite is a dynamic player who is a difficult cover for most defenders. He can hit the gas pedal to get to where he wants to go, and his height allows him to shoot over opponents. His elite athleticism translates defensively as well, where he consistently pesters opponents with his long arms and active hands. All in all, he's a very solid prospect, and I like the way he competes.

In this article, I feature prospects in the 17U division who flashed their potential with their ability to get up and throw one down.