GWC: Who Shined in the Final Day- Part 3

<p>It was a great week of play at the Great Western Classic, and the tournament’s final day was no exception. So, let’s take one last look at a few players who stood out in their final game of the weekend.</p> <p>Jackson Nelson- 6’6/ F- Salem Hills<br /> Nelson has the size and athleticism to play either the four or five. Nelson comes from an athletic family, and he put his genetics on display on Sunday night. This class of 2023 big is a strong post defender who can decimate opposing bigs on the offensive end. Nelson has an array of post moves to throw at defenders, whether he’s going away from the basket with a fadeaway or into defenders with a drop step. Nelson knows how to use his frame to create separation and does not shy away from contact. His deep bag allows him to score inside vs. bigger defenders as he routinely had success against an opposing seven-footer on the low block. Nelson is also capable of playing outside the paint, where he can shoot it or pump fake and drive to the hoop.</p> <p><br /> [player_tooltip player_id="1116164" first="Jaxon" last="Kerekes"]- 6’1/ CG- Riverton<br /> Kerekes is a physical combo guard who is not afraid to take on bigger opponents. His strength and lateral quickness allow him to shine on defense. In addition, he has an excellent feel for the game and instincts that make him a pesky defender. The class of 2023 combo guard is also a force offensively where he finishes extremally well through contact. Kerekes is tough driving to the basket and does not settle for floaters. He’s also comfortable spotting up and can make defenses pay from the outside. The 6’1 combo guard also does a good job of finding his teammates and rarely settles for a bad shot. Kerekes is a true two way player who’s basketball IQ will serve him well this summer and winter season.  </p> <p><br /> Mason Farr- 6’9/ C- Utah Elite<br /> Utah Elite This class of 2023 big is a mismatch for every team he faces. Farr may not be the strongest, but his length allows him to overwhelm opponents in the paint. The 6’9 big finishes well inside with a pretty jump-hook. Farr also has a nice mid-range shot and is not bothered by contests as he easily rises above defenders. He can also step out to the three-point range, providing more spacing for his teammates. Farr is an excellent rim protector on defense with great timing and anticipation to block shots. He knows just when to rotate over to contest drivers and does an excellent job of getting low on post-ups to not give ground.</p> <p><br /> [player_tooltip player_id="935894" first="Phoenix" last="McWillis"]- 6’5/ F- Crimson Cliffs<br /> McWillis has the size, shooting touch, and handle to play at the next level. His size often leads to him guarding forwards, but his quick feet also allow him to stay with guards. McWillis also has good hands that enable him to poke the ball away and get in transition, where he excels. This 2023 forward often brings the ball up for Crimson Cliffs and is always looking to pressure defenses. He has a swift crossover that allows him to get by defenders, and once he reaches the hoop, he can finish in a variety of ways. In addition, McWills is a confident shooter who can hit outside shots off the catch and dribble. His favorite move is his step-back three; once he gets one to drop, he can be hard to stop.</p>