Vermont's Stretch Run Standouts

Today, our Stretch Run Standouts series heads to Vermont, where we'll take a look at the Vermont Principals Association.   Below are five prospects from across the state that we believe will have an impact on the postseason race in the coming weeks.    Abdirahman, a sophomore guard out of Burlington, has helped team to a 15-1 record, sitting 1st in Division 1. A shifty guard with the ball in his hands, Abdirahman can really go in transition, showing the ability to push the pace in transition, find shooters off his penetration, or score himself at the rim. He does a nice job of sliding off the ball and filling a scoring role, particularly as a catch and shoot guy from behind the arc. His ability to keep opposing ball-handlers out of the paint with his quick feet and quick hands stands out, as does his ability to create turnovers at a high rate. Burlington is a favorite in Division 1 and if they want to hoist a trophy at the end of it all, Abdirahman will need to play a big role.     Potter, a senior forward from Rutland, has guided his team to a 10-5 record, sitting 4th in Division 1. A throwback forward that isn't afraid to do the dirty work that's required to win, Potter adds an element of strength and physicality for his team. He's a big time rebounder that can control the defensive glass, does a nice job of protecting the rim without fouling, and is a good outlet passer that can start the break. He has good hands, shows nice footwork in the post, and can score through contact with either hand. Rutland will need to pull off a few upsets to make a deep run this winter and a guy like Potter, who's willing to do the little things, could help them do just that.     Cody, a senior guard at Montpelier, has led his team to a 15-1 record, sitting 1st in Division 2. A big time shooter from behind the arc, Cody has the ability to get hot in a hurry and point a lot of points on the board. He does a good job of moving without the basketball, has a quick and high release on his shot, and consistently is shot ready off the catch. He has long arms and quick hands, allowing him to create steals as an on-ball defender that led to easy run-out baskets. When he gets to the rim, he does a nice job of finishing with length. Montpelier is in a good spot right now and having a shooter like Cody only helps their chances at making a run this postseason.     Almeida, a senior guard at Fair Haven, has helped his team to an 11-4 reocrd, sitting 4th in Division 2. A scoring guard that can get it done at the rim or from behind the arc, Almeida does a nice job of impacting a game on both ends of the floor. He has the strength to finish plays through contact, moves into passing lanes to get open when off the ball, and can knock down multiple threes in a game. Defensively, he's tough on the ball, adds something on the defensive glass, and normally does a good job in rotation from the help side. He's a big piece to the puzzle for Fair Haven, as they'll look to make a deep run in a few weeks.     Donavan Craven, a senior forward at White River Valley, has guided his team to a 16-0 record, sitting 1st in Division 3. A physical forward that has a good feel as a decision maker out of the low post, Craven provides both scoring and rebounding for his team. He plays with a high motor, isn't afraid of contact, and does the little things that lead to winning. He can score in the post using either hand, but also shows the ability to pass out of double teams, finding open teammates for easy scoring opportunities. He's a strong defender that guards in the paint and rebounds at a high level. White River Valley has had a terrific season and to cap it all off in a few weeks. they'll look to Craven for some big minutes.

Today, our Stretch Run Standouts series heads to Vermont, where we'll take a look at the Vermont Principals Association.