The Expo: Big Seasons Loading For These MVPs After Showcase

The Expo gave us plenty of reasons to believe these MVPs are just getting started. Each player brought a different skill set, but the common thread was clear with confidence, competitiveness and the ability to impact winning. Their performances showcased players ready for bigger roles, tougher challenges and another level of production. What they showed at The Expo has us expecting them to make a serious impact when the season tips.    Ayon was one of the guards who made his impact felt at The Expo, putting his ability to create and finish on full display. His combination of speed, shiftiness and change of direction made him extremely difficult to contain, routinely beating defenders off the bounce and getting to his spots before they could recover. He plays with excellent pace and has the ability to completely change a possession with his burst. His perimeter shooting adds another layer, as he can knock down shots when set up or manufacture his own looks. This performance reinforced our belief that Ayon is poised for a major season     Wittler brought an attacking mindset and consistently created pressure with his combination of speed, explosiveness and feel. He was a constant threat in transition, getting downhill with purpose and finishing through openings without sacrificing control. His instincts stood out as he naturally found gaps, understood where to be and turned defensive mistakes into scoring opportunities. He was also shot ready on the perimeter, confidently knocking down catch and shoot looks. Just as impressive was the leadership he displayed as you could see the growth in his voice, presence and confidence on the floor. The Expo showed us a guard who has taken a clear step forward and looks ready for a significant season     McDonald looked like a different level of athlete at The Expo, and the difference showed immediately in how much ground he covered on both ends. He played with an attacking mentality, using his burst to get downhill, earn trips to the line and create space for controlled mid range jumpers. He also proved he cannot be ignored beyond the arc. Defensively his activity was a major part of his impact, applying pressure well beyond the perimeter, forcing turnovers and consistently getting hands into passing lanes. We especially liked his willingness to take ownership with the ball and make plays. This version of McDonald has the tools to become a true two way difference maker this season     Robinson displayed a level of competitiveness that immediately stood out. He actively sought out the toughest defensive assignments and repeatedly challenged himself by taking on the top players in the gym rather than looking for easier matchups. He showed more shooting range than we knew, confidently stepping into threes, while also making quality reads as a passer and finishing with either hand. His athleticism was on full display around the rim, where he controlled his body, rebounded well beyond his size and could immediately turn a board into transition offense. Then came the dunks which were explosive, high level finishes that reinforced just how much athletic upside he brings. The Expo made it clear Robinson is a player who's ready and can impact winning in multiple ways     Williams showing left us with plenty to like after The Expo, especially the way his athleticism translates into offensive pressure. He has the physical tools to turn the corner, get into the paint and make things happen around the basket. He repeatedly beat opponents off the bounce and once he got downhill defenders had to account for his ability to finish at and above the rim. He showed he can string together scoring bursts and create offense without needing everything drawn up for him. Just as encouraging was his willingness to stay involved as a playmaker when shots weren't open. The explosiveness is real, the scoring upside is evident and it gave us another reason to expect Williams to make major noise this season     Baca played with a kind of confidence and edge that immediately grabbed attention. He carried himself with real swagger, but more importantly, backed it up with his play and scoring ability. He consistently created matchup problems, using his confidence and skill to put defenders in uncomfortable situations. His three point shot was particularly impressive, giving him a dangerous weapon whenever he found space beyond the arc. He played with purpose, competed with intensity and showed no hesitation in attacking opportunities. There was a clear belief in his game and a willingness to impose it. Everything we saw at The Expo points toward a big season incoming for Baca     Johnson used The Expo to reinforce what we have believed about his game and he is ready for a bigger stage and a bigger role. He looked comfortable running the point, controlling the tempo, creating advantages and keeping the offense moving without taking himself out of scoring opportunities. His handle gives him the freedom to attack defenders and manufacture shots when possessions break down, and his three point shot is becoming a legitimate problem for defenses to solve. He played with poise and purpose throughout, showing the confidence of a guard who is ready to take another step. His showing only strengthened our belief that Johnson is ready for what comes next

The Expo gave us plenty of reasons to believe these MVPs are just getting started. Each player brought a different skill set, but the common thread was clear with confidence, competitiveness and the ability to impact winning. Their performances showcased players ready for bigger roles, tougher challenges and another level of production. What they showed at The Expo has us expecting them to make a serious impact when the season tips.