Grit, Hustle and Winning Plays

Not all star performances are defined solely by scoring. Someone has to do the dirty work, the unpopular work. Someone has to do the things that dont show up in the box score, and get you in the local newspaper. Someone has to lock in on the intangibles. These five players earned their spotlights by doing the heavy lifting, diving for loose balls, locking up opposing stars, and making the crucial, high-IQ plays that directly translate to wins.    Cabrera was one of the most talked-about players of the camp, prompting numerous coaches to ask where Natchitoches Central found this high-energy spark plug. He is a high-IQ, high-motor player who not only makes tough shots but consistently makes winning plays that don't always show up in the box score. After watching him in Dallas a few weeks ago, it is no surprise that he returned home and put on a clinic on effort and competing. Remember the name, because he is a true difference maker. His toughness and dedication were key factors in his team's dominant camp showing.     Joiner was incredibly consistent all weekend, demonstrating a polished ability to score the basketball at all three levels. He proved highly effective at exploiting mismatches on the perimeter and showed great physical toughness when driving downhill. His smooth style and willingness to take what the defense gives him without forcing shots makes him a highly projectable prospect.     Adams is a name that continues to gain heavy traction in basketball circles, and his physical growth is highly evident. He has clearly dedicated himself to the weight room, building a strong frame designed to handle physical play. His performance was right in line with what he has done on the AAU Circuit helping the La Cardinals to their reputation as one of the toughest teams on the circuit. He is a high-energy prospect who embraces the dirty work, fights for every possession, and will be a vital piece for Evangel Baptist this upcoming season.     After serving as a key piece on a talented LakeView squad last year, Reliford looks entirely ready to take over as both the offensive focal point and emotional leader of his team. His game has taken a massive leap forward, particularly his perimeter shooting. Built like a college player already, his physical tools and high basketball IQ make him fully prepared for the next level.     Wetmore's game continues to evolve, showcasing new offensive wrinkles every time he steps onto the floor. The firs thing you will always see is his intensity, and if he gets going from deep, he can really light it up. The kid has a long range shot that can cause a coach to change defensive strategy. Defensively, he is an absolute pest, sitting and wearing down opposing guards over the course of a game. Coaches will deeply appreciate his grit, overall toughness, his long range threat.    We are getting into the thick of the evaluations, but still have plenty more to go. Stay locked in for more player evaluations from the JSE Camp in West Monroe.

Not all star performances are defined solely by scoring. Someone has to do the dirty work, the unpopular work. Someone has to do the things that dont show up in the box score, and get you in the local newspaper. Someone has to lock in on the intangibles. These five players earned their spotlights by doing the heavy lifting, diving for loose balls, locking up opposing stars, and making the crucial, high-IQ plays that directly translate to wins.