4A State Tourney: SEPA Prospects to Watch in 2nd Round

Below is a preview of prospects from southeastern Pennsylvania who college coaches need to watch during the 2nd round of the PIAA 4A state tournament.    This stretch-4 style forward posted a memorable senior season. In 2024-25 Griffin averaged 16 points along with 8 rebounds per game, led Shanahan to the District 1-4A title and was named as a 1st team All Ches-Mont selection. Griffin posted a slew of double doubles this winter including two last month -- 24 and 11 against PJP as well as 19 and 12 versus Collegium Charter. The trifecta of Griffin's length, solid frame and polished footwork enables him to score on post ups and by working the offensive boards. Griffin can operate out of the high post too. From there he can pop jumpers, execute pick-n-roll action, or score off the dribble. His ability to get out in transition for buckets is underrated. On defense, Griffin is an intimidating rim protector.     On an Eastern York squad loaded with all-league players, Nicholson (5 ppg.) is a fantastic “glue guy.” On offense he does the bulk of his scoring damage in mid-range and around the rim. He is especially effective on dives to the low post and then finishing over his shoulder. Nicholson will crash the offensive glass for second chance opportunities too. Plus, this long, and athletic small forward owns an accurate jump shot with 3-point range. During his junior campaign, Nicholson posted a season high 12 points in a win over Dover. We expect Nicholson will have a breakout spring / summer on the grassroots circuit.     One of the under the radar point guards in the Mid-Penn conference posted his breakout season this winter. During his junior year Slappy averaged 13.8 points per night on the strength of 3 made triples per game. On the season Slappy has knocked home 71 threes. He posted seven games this winter with 5 or more made threes. In addition to hitting jumpers from deep, Slappy is a remarkable floor who can direct half court sets or push the rock in transition for scores and assists. Slappy's quick first step and elusive handles get him into the paint for floaters, lay-ins and kick out passes.     In 2024-25 Thear was a starter for DP who contributed 11 points, 4 assists and 4 rebounds per game. Earlier this season Thear poured in 27 points (4 for 4 on threes) in DP's win over La Salle. Last week, Thear scored 14 points (2 threes) during DP's 1st Round 4A stat tourney win. Thear possesses an accurate jump shot with a quick release and range well beyond the three-point line (45% from deep). He also owns the quickness and handles to score in transition as well as on straight-line drive to get to the hoop in the half-court. Thear's positioning skills and nose for the ball make him a plus rebounder.

Below is a preview of prospects from southeastern Pennsylvania who college coaches need to watch during the 2^nd round of the PIAA 4A state tournament.