Mid-February Breakdown: Defensive-Minded Guards Commanding Stops

Yesterday, we broke down which wings have established themselves so far this month. Today, let's give the guards who prioritize defense a platform to be recognized. From locking up the perimeter to creeping in between passing lanes, these hoopers are getting the job done on the defensive end of the floor. We'll be covering a wide variety of classes and leagues, so buckle up! Let's talk about it.    [player_tooltip player_id='2396489' first='Javelle' last='Taylor'] is one of the most underrated guards in the senior class this season, and he's been on his A-game, focusing on defending all five positions at a high level of intensity. Tacking on a dominant 8 steals in his most recent matchup against the Hinkley Thunder, Taylor brings massive sparks of energy to an undefeated 20-0 Fusion squad who wastes no time getting the job done. On the offensive end, Taylor is still able to produce a consistent volume of scoring around the interior, using his 5'11 frame to dominate other guards. It will be an exciting finish to Taylor's final season as he seeks out a state championship to seal the deal.     [player_tooltip player_id='2396005' first='Jarius' last='Dicks'] is a pest defending the perimeter, acquiring just under 5 SPG along with a crucial 22 PPG and 4.3 APG on the campaign. Dicks has plenty to be proud of this season, especially considering his exponential growth going from just 3.2 PPG last season and having doubled his minutes in his senior year. Dicks' acceleration and quickness off the triple threat allow him to maneuver past defenses and kick to open shooters on offense. Look out for Dicks to turn up the heat in March too.     [player_tooltip player_id='2391125' first='Trey' last='Hall'] is easily one of the most well-rounded guards in the state, crashing the glass relentlessly while oozing physicality in the paint. Totalling his all-time best, 18 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 3 APG, and 4.8 RPG, Hall remains locked in and focused throughout all four quarters. The 6'1 SG has a burner on him, knocking down 58% of his looks from the field in his junior campaign. What's most impressive with Hall is his dedication to his defense, elevating his intensity and pressing his matchup like no tomorrow. Expect the #14-ranked SG to take off big time.     [player_tooltip player_id='2831783' first='Caleb' last='Arellano'] has been a prominent scorer during the backend of his high school career, capitalizing on every opportunity and amassing 15.8 PPG with a side of 3.4 RPG, 3.6 APG, and 4.6 SPG. Arellano took his junior year off to work on his craft, and it's paid off big time in his final curtain call. As his Pinnacle Timberwolves are thriving at 16-4, his hard work and consistency have shone through big time. The 5'9 combo guard takes pride in his defense, and his lateral quickness speaks volumes to his determination to get stops. Leaking in between passing lanes, Arellano is always prepared for the big moments.     [player_tooltip player_id='2763256' first='Zephyrus' last='Schuessler'] is a key impact player for the Clear Creek Golddiggers who has made leaps and bounds while progressing his game. His scoring has become as prolific as it gets, while his defense has become immensely more intense. Schuessler closely guards his matchup and is more than capable of guarding all five positions at 6'2. Coming up with 4.6 SPG alongside a consistent 20.8 PPG, Schuessler showcases what it's like to be a dominant 2-way guard in the box state.

Yesterday, we broke down which wings have established themselves so far this month. Today, let's give the guards who prioritize defense a platform to be recognized. From locking up the perimeter to creeping in between passing lanes, these hoopers are getting the job done on the defensive end of the floor. We'll be covering a wide variety of classes and leagues, so buckle up! Let's talk about it.