Replacing Top 2023s: Part Two
In this article:
The high school season is officially underway next week but many of the state’s top teams are faced with having to reload their rosters to make a return trip to Rupp Arena in March. Here’s a look at how some…
Access all of Prep Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingThe high school season is officially underway next week but many of the state’s top teams are faced with having to reload their rosters to make a return trip to Rupp Arena in March. Here’s a look at how some schools will look to replace their 2023 D1 Seniors who are now playing college ball.
Jerone Morton was a starter for GRC for a long time and was the MVP of the 2022 Sweet Sixteen before heading to Morehead after being runner-up last season. He leaves behind a big time legacy at GRC but Reshaun Hampton Reshaun Hampton 6’0″ | SG George Rogers Clark | 2024 State KY is ready to step into a bigger role. Hampton is a big time shooter with the ability to put the ball on the floor or thrive in the catch and shoot. For the reigning 10th region champs to repeat, Reshaun will need to step up and fill a large void for the Cardinals.
Highlights
Covington Catholic is in the familiar position of having to reload their roster after graduation but they’ll have to replace Evan Ipsaro after he finished as one of the best guards to come through the school in a long time. Sophomore Athens McGillis Athens McGillis 5’10” | CG Covington Catholic | 2026 State KY should get first crack at replacing Ipsaro and it’s likely that McGillis and Cash Harney Cash Harney 5’9″ | PG Covington Catholic | 2026 State KY will step in for Athens’ older brother and Ipsaro in the starting backcourt. McGillis is frail but isn’t afraid to go into the paint and finish against bigger bodies. He’ll have a chance for a breakout season for the Colonels.
Highlights
Now at Youngstown State, Simon Kenton’s Gabe Dynes went from unknown to D1 over the course of a year. It remains to be seen what the prospect ceiling is for Bode Stone Bode Stone 6’7″ | C Simon Kenton | 2025 State KY but he should be able to replicate Dynes’ offensive numbers and will attempt to provide some of the rim protection that the 7’3 Dynes did for the Pioneers. Stone is a big forward who can shoot a little and put the ball on the deck. Look for him to take advantage of a lot more playing time in his Junior season.
Woodford made a run to Rupp Arena last season after John McCrear returned from injury to give them a post presence as well as rim protection and rebounding. Carson Probst Carson Probst 6’11” | C Woodford County | 2025 State KY will look to do the same this season after spending the summer growing into his body and getting more and more reps on the court. Probst is a legitimate 6’10 with a nearly 7 foot wingspan and he keeps improving. Woodford will be guard heavy but Carson can provide them a legitimate post presence as well as much needed rebounding help.
Highlights
Charlie already had a big role last season for Pikeville but look for him to have a bigger spot in the offense for the Panthers as a Senior. Replacing Rylee Samons offense is a tall task and Fitzer won’t be able to replicate the three point shooting that Samons provided. The 6’9 Center should be able to get more buckets from the elbow and in off of designed plays instead of making his living on putbacks. Charlie could be a dark horse candidate for regional player of the year.