Top 250 Expo: Best Big Performances
A great mix of outstate/metro, known/unknown, and traditional/new-age big men showcased their talents at the Minnesota Top 250 Expo last weekend. NHR runs through the most eye-catching in the 2019/2020 classes.
Tyler Baribeau (PF, 6-6, 2019, Mesabi East) – A reliable rim-runner and rebounder who has made great leaps since we first saw him in his 16U grassroots campaign. His footwork and balance have improved and his hands are quick to finish at the rim.
Cole Chapman (C, 6-10, 2020, Mahtomedi) – Cole’s rim protection is there with even more effort than before. He’s got good agility for his size and flashed some post moves that are promising.
Zach Gazda (C, 6-9, 2019, North Branch) – Zach’s got some stretch game to him and it was clear he has natural shooting touch to go with his rebounding and defense. Loved how he competed against the other top bigs in the event.
Carter Henry (PF, 6-7, 2019, BOLD) – His athleticism is most evident in these games and Carter dominated the open floor. I was happy to see him setting tough screens and rolling hard to the rim in the halfcourt.
Austin Jentzen (C, 6-8, 2019, STMA) – I’m really excited to watch Austin have a productive year for the Knights in a lot of ways. What caught our eye quickly was how willing and proficient he was passing out of the post. Multiple times he executed jump hooks with both hands as well, showing advanced footwork and balance.
Cooper Olson (PF, 6-6, 2020, Champlin Park) – Cooper’s expanding his game quickly. He’s able to play as a traditional post on the block against smaller guys but his faceup game is becoming hard for slower defenders to keep up with. Has a solid jumper from midrange as well.
Luke Schwartzhoff (PF, 6-7, 2020, La Crescent) – I liked the prospects of Schwartzhoff when I saw him at BatL this spring and he’s exactly what I remember: runs well, handles surprisingly good for a big, and puts in effort on the glass that wins him extra possessions time and time again.
Robert Jones (C, 6-11, 2019, Prior Lake) – One of the MVPs on the day dominated his games with blistering strength on both ends. It was cool to see him competing so hard and having fun just playing the game.
Dane Zimmer (PF, 6-7, 2019, Hopkins) – We gush about Dane’s prowess as a defender every time we watch him. NSICs were watching closely and the active, consistent power forward will have plenty of options to choose from.