Six 2025s Ready for the Next Leap
In this article:
These next few players have all shown they have the skills to be some of the top players in their respective leagues. Some had big sophomore seasons while others were just starting to break out. Either way, these six players…
Access all of Prep Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingThese next few players have all shown they have the skills to be some of the top players in their respective leagues. Some had big sophomore seasons while others were just starting to break out. Either way, these six players have big junior years written all over them.
Henton played his AAU ball with Jones Academy, a group of highly talented players that played up in the 17U division. Playing against that kind of competition seems to have really helped Henton slow the game down and he’s looked the part of a very confident player this summer. He keeps getting stronger and that long-range shot continues to get better and better. He did put up some big numbers last season, but I think he can do even better this year and help his Interlake team find more wins while being a tough team in the KingCo.
McClendon dealt with some nagging injuries this summer and wasn’t able to play all that much, but what has me excited about his junior year is his move over to Auburn Mountainview. He’s a big guard who’s still working to develop his skills as a point, so being able to play alongside another budding junior who can play both point and off-guard ( Sebastian Arius Sebastian Arius 6’5″ | CG Auburn Mountainview | 2025 State WA ) should free up some space for McClendon to use his strength and size to get inside and make some things happen. He’s a kid who can bring a lot of varying looks on the offensive end that will keep defenses guessing.
Highlights
The power and aggression that Tita plays with is what has me so high on him coming into this season. There are still some nuances to iron out in his game but the pressure he can put on defenses with his ability to get to the rim in the half court, and out run and jump kids in transition should help get defenders leaning back a little and create some more space on the perimeter for him to mix in jumpers. Kentwood will be a fun team to watch and Tita will be one of the guys at the center of it.
Highlights
The big combo forward out of Tenino had a monster year as a sophomore, showing his versatility as well as some good instinctual play. He was a bit thin last year but has come out of the summer looking much stronger especially in his lower body. Schow gives off point-forward vibes at times with his ability to handle the ball and spot gaps in the defense. He should be a stronger finisher inside and could be a threat to operate with his back to the basket more with his increased strength and his ball skills.
Vanvoorhis was an electric player with the ball last season, but his finishing came and went. He looked even more threatening with the ball this summer and is honestly one of the toughest kids to stay in front of in the 4A. Give him an inch and he’ll get to the rim, and now he’s converting at a much higher rate and looks ready to tap into his all-league potential this season.
Gilderhus really stood out last season for his quickness with the ball, ability to create space with the dribble, and of course, shoot the three at a high level. However, this summer he’s shown a much more diverse approach to the game and a promising skill set as a more traditional point guard. His passing looks to be at a high level, he’s using his tight handle in different ways now, keeping defenders at bay and controlling the pace of the game. He could be a rising junior if he continues to display this level of growth.