Kansas City Classic Recap, Part II — Inside the Stock Risers

Multiple regional names flashed over the weekend in Kansas City, each bringing a different edge with their dynamic and unique play. Their fingerprints were all over the action, with noticeable growth on both ends of the floor that separated them from the rest. This group looks primed for a jump this summer and could do more than enough to generate interest from next-level programs along the way.    While Rooks was streaky over the weekend, he had stretches where his offensive package really came to life, and his ability to take and make tough shots was noticeable. Crafty with the dribble and elusive enough to create space, he found openings in the defense and was able to shoot it effectively from both the mid-range and behind the arc. His range is deeper than most, and his stroke stays consistent. While he was used as an effective, attacking primary ball handler, he also showed well off the ball — using screens and different actions to free himself up for open looks or downhill attacks. If Brandon can continue to add to his frame, improve his quickness in tight spaces, and take the next step defensively, it should pay dividends as he continues to move forward.     McCollum was one of the top lead guards throughout the weekend, as his floor game was both calculated and efficient — creating opportunities for teammates while still staying aggressive in hunting his own offense. Everything really opened up for Tate off of his perimeter shooting. A threat from distance at all times, he forced defenses to account for him and adjust their ball screen coverages. He showed good feel getting to empty-side actions, where he could manipulate help defenders and make the right play. Tate had stretches where he was locked in as a shooter, showing a quick, confident release when left alone. His movement off the ball was also effective, consistently relocating into open space and making himself available off drives. He may have been the best guard in attendance when it came to pitching the ball ahead in transition, consistently putting defenses into scramble situations.     It's always interesting to see the different types and molds of perimeter players, and Harris definitely fits the bill as a strong, physical guard who likes to get downhill toward the rim. In doing so, he put consistent pressure on opposing bigs to protect the paint on Saturday and Sunday. Yahya uses his body well to initiate contact and create space, showing success finishing through and around longer defenders. He doesn't look to overdribble when in isolation, typically making one or two quick moves before attacking his primary defender. He also crashes the offensive glass regularly, creating extra scoring opportunities around the rim. There's a lot to like about Yahya's overall game and the strides he can still make moving forward. If Harris can take care of the basketball and become more consistent with his approach, there's little doubt his game will continue to evolve. Look for his perimeter shooting to also play a big part in the future which should allow him to see more space to operate.     Physically, Mosala was extremely tough to match up with as he's comfortable operating both inside and out. His size and strength on the wing are apparent, but it's how he moves and operates in space that makes him a complete player. He was clinical in ball-screen actions — whether popping or ghosting into space, he consistently found daylight, and his shooting ability took over from there. More than capable from distance, he knocked down multiple deep looks and looked right at home shooting from range. CJ also handled high closeouts well, putting the ball on the floor and getting to the rim, and he even showed he could operate with his back to the basket against smaller defenders. His patience on the offensive end allows him to stay in control and consistently find openings against primary defenders. Hop on board now — there's no question his name will continue to trend up in the near future. He's a legitimate next-level player.     Moore's defensive impact and anticipation flashed in Kansas City, as he consistently read and disrupted opposing offenses. He's another player who can turn defense into offense in a hurry, pushing into the open floor and attacking before defenses get set. An unselfish player, Tra keeps teammates engaged with his feel for the game and his ability to read how defenses are moving. He created a number of clean looks at the rim by finding openings and delivering accurate passes. Defensively, he can really lock in — beating ball handlers to the spot and generating deflections. With his quick hands and lateral movement, it's easy to see how he can shut down opposing guards. He also plays bigger than his frame when attacking the rim and has an efficient stroke from deep. You'll see stretches where Moore can string together buckets on his own and take over games. With his ability to play both on and off the ball, he's well-positioned to expand his versatility and show next-level programs he can fill multiple roles.     Minnix's combination of length and skill immediately pulls you in, as he's taken strides over the last year. He had moments in Kansas City where he showed he could defend different skill sets in ball screens — whether switching onto perimeter players or handling both the ball and the roller at times. His length also showed up at the rim, where he was able to alter or turn away multiple shots, often keeping the ball in play and creating extra possessions for his team. Offensively, he was at his best as a face-up shooter and floor spacer who connected from range. From a rebounding standpoint, he wasn't afraid to mix it up and pursue the basketball. As he continues to use his body and improve his positioning, you should see his rebounding take another step as well. With a sky-high ceiling, there's no telling where he could be in another year of development. If he can continue to add weight and strength to his frame, it could help accelerate his growth on both ends of the floor.

Multiple regional names flashed over the weekend in Kansas City, each bringing a different edge with their dynamic and unique play. Their fingerprints were all over the action, with noticeable growth on both ends of the floor that separated them from the rest. This group looks primed for a jump this summer and could do more than enough to generate interest from next-level programs along the way.