Leading Returning Scorers: Class 4A
As part of our high school season preview coverage, we’re taking a look at some of the top returning players in each class. In this article, we’re taking a look at the top ten returning scorers in Class 4A. …
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Continue ReadingAs part of our high school season preview coverage, we’re taking a look at some of the top returning players in each class. In this article, we’re taking a look at the top ten returning scorers in Class 4A.
Jaleque Dunson (Photo credit: Sioux City Journal)
1.) Jaleque Dunson, Sioux City East (15.8 points per game)
The top 21 scorers from last year in 4A either graduated, are out for the year with injury (Ames’ Tamin Lipsey) or have transferred out-of-state (Kennedy’s Jack Wetzel), leaving Black Raiders 6-3 wing Jaleque Dunson as the leading returnee. And with Aidan Vanderloo and Javonte Keck gone, he could see his numbers get up into the mid-20s this year. A long, athletic wing with range, he should be a scoring machine for the best program in western Iowa.
2.) Quran Owens, Council Bluffs Jefferson (15.3 points per game)
Not much went well last year for the Yellowjackets, who went 2-20, but Owens was a bright spot, averaging over 15 points a game and shooting well above what the rest of the team shot from the floor (46.2 FG% to 36.0%). The 6-3 wing also led the team in steals and blocks as a junior.
Braxton Bayless
3.) Braxton Bayless, Ankeny (15.2 points per game)
A 6-1 lead guard, Bayless was remarkably efficient last year, putting up his 15.2 points a game with shooting splits of 53-47-74. He also led the Hawks in rebounding, assists, steals and blocks. A tough guard with great quickness, he’s a menace on both ends of the floor and is one of the best players in the CIML.
4.) Nate Reed, Sioux City North (15.1 points per game)
A 6-2 senior forward, Reed was efficient last year (53.3 FG%) and could see his scoring numbers skyrocket this year following the graduation of every other player who scored more than 28 points on the season.
5.) Trae Swartz, Ottumwa (15.9 points per game)
A do-everything guard for the Bulldogs, Swartz ranks second among 4A returnees in free throw attempted last year. He’ll use that ability to get to the line to help boost his scoring numbers again this season.
Michael Duax
6.) Michael Duax, Dubuque Hempstead (14.8 points per game)
This is my pick to take the 4A scoring crown this season. A 6-6 wing with incredible length and ability, Duax is coming off a great summer with Martin Brothers and looks primed for a sensational junior year. He had 54-50-73 shooting splits last season, and should be a dominant force on both ends of the floor this year for the Mustangs.
7.) Manny Austin, Des Moines North (14.6 points per game)
Austin put up his numbers at Des Moines Hoover last year, but has made the transfer over to North for this season. A talented junior guard who is at his best playing downhill and getting to the rim, he should thrive in North’s up-tempo system.
8.) Andre Brandon, Iowa City Liberty (14.4 points per game)
A skilled, 6-6 power forward, Brandon tore his Achilles in early April, but is expected to be back for the season. He’s efficient around the rim and has a nice mid-range game that he has been working to expand out to the arc. He’ll be the focal point for a Lightning attack that returns everyone.
Ty Anderson
9.) Ty Anderson, North Scott (13.7 points per game)
A future Northern Iowa Panther, the 6-7 forward has steadily developed his offensive game, turning himself from someone who primarily scored off of dump-off passes or offensive rebounds, to a full-fledged offensive weapon. He’s increased his range and can now step out and knock down an occasional 3, and he runs the floor incredibly well. Look for Anderson to average a double-double this year for a Lancers team that should spend a lot of time within the top five in 4A.
10.) Jaxon Smith, Ankeny (13.5 points per game)
The second Ankeny Hawk guard on this list, Smith also posted great efficiency numbers, scoring his 13.5 points on 51-33-81 shooting. He’s a bit smaller than Bayless, but he’s equally quick, using that quickness to get to the rim routinely. He swiped 48 steals to boot.