The Game Changers of The Mitten State Mash

The Mitten State Mash featured no shortage of talent, but this group separated itself. Some commanded the game with pace and decision-making, others imposed their will physically or defensively, but all of them exhibited traits that translate beyond just a single weekend of basketball.    Anderson plays off two feet in the paint, giving himself options after a low, tenacious rip-through that allows him to get downhill. This offensive approach translates well in every level of the game.     Kalen is the poster child for what a lead guard looks like. He handles full-court ball pressure with relative ease, squaring up his defender and working him down. He attacks the hip to get to the rack, where he draws contact and finishes with an extended arm, creating space between the ball and the shot contest. Along with a solid look from beyond the arc, Hester also provides great ball pressure on the defensive end.     Treyton has the unique ability to play both smaller and bigger than his listed height. His ability to guard both bigs and guards makes it difficult to create mismatches against him. On the offensive end, Selbig creates his own looks from all three levels, although he must convert those quality opportunities at a higher rate.     When Adams' number is called, he does exactly what is asked of him. Boussi enters the game with instant high energy and a positive presence. He runs the break well, pushing the ball forward and making the correct read — sometimes dropping it off and other times taking it himself. Adams also finishes plays through the whistle, helping generate extra possessions for his team.     At his size, Koul offers a deep bag that you might not expect at first glance. He rim-runs very well, has soft touch around the basket, and displayed a post fade that seemed nearly uncontestable. Koul also isn't afraid to operate on the perimeter, showing solid vision by finding teammates cutting to the rim. On the defensive side of the ball, though, you'd be safer judging a book by its cover. Koul is a very effective shot contester — maybe not always getting the block, but definitely making it harder for the offense to get quality looks off.     On top of being a phenomenally skilled and effective guard, Braylon possesses intangibles that impact the game just as much. He remains stoic in the face of adversity, responding to runs from the opposition with deafening threes that turns the tide back in his team's favor.

The Mitten State Mash featured no shortage of talent, but this group separated itself. Some commanded the game with pace and decision-making, others imposed their will physically or defensively, but all of them exhibited traits that translate beyond just a single weekend of basketball.