2024-‘25 Season Preview: Underrated Shot Blockers

<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2569625"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-671f456559da9"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2569625' first='Jonathan' last='Babcock']'s the most underrated rim protector in the state, putting up over 2 blocks per game since his sophomore season. This elite shot blocker showed his dominance as a defensive anchor on a game-to-game basis, producing 10 games with 3 or more blocks, with season-high of 7 blocks in a game. His understanding of defensive schemes, rotations, and positioning have been crucial to his success. His discipline and patience set him apart as he rarely fell for pump fakes, staying on his feet until the perfect moment to contest, which allowed him to stay in control and avoid unnecessary fouls.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2554885"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-671f456559e21"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='2554885' first='Jacob' last='Oman'], with an impressive 1.5 blocks per game as a junior, standing out as a shot-blocker defined by his impeccable timing and reach. His effectiveness stems from a keen ability to read opponents as they elevate, allowing him to anticipate and meet shots with precision.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2628394"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-671f456559e8e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">As a rim protector, [player_tooltip player_id='2628394' first='Noah' last='Ayala'] understands angles exceptionally well, often positioning himself perfectly to alter shots even without direct blocks. Ayala effectively uses his size to wall up, challenging shots without always needing to leave his feet, making it tough for opponents to score over him without forcing difficult, high-arching shots as he's difficult to shoot over cleanly or drive through.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2333781"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-671f456559ef6"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='2333781' first='Glynn' last='Clements'] averaged a block per game last season, showcasing his shot-blocking skills through impressive timing. He often makes his blocks at the peak of his opponent's release, right before the ball leaves their hands, showing his anticipation and ability to disrupt shots effectively.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2233711"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-671f456559f61"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">On the defensive side of the floor, [player_tooltip player_id='2233711' first='Brennen' last='Byrd'] proves to be a reliable helpside defender whose hands are always ready, he shows great anticipation, and timing for the shot underneath the basket. His hops and length allow him to stop layups before they get above the cylinder. Byrd has a knack for baiting players before swatting their shots out of the air, often timing his leap with the release to get a hand on the ball at a high point, taking away the opportunity for his man to adjust midair.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->