Breakdown Sports Fall League: Top Sleepers (Week 3)

Max Wagner November 5, 2019 @ 09:52 AM

As always, the Breakdown Sports Fall League featured some of Minnesota's elite talents facing off in preseason competition. But alongside the big names were a number of sleeper prospects who made their presence felt. Who are some of those under-the-radar names to know? NHR has you covered with seven sleepers who stood out. Kenji Scales (6' 2022 PG, Eastview)- Kenji played for Eastview's sophomore team last year, and though he still may not see the floor much on varsity this season, he's a player to watch for the future. He saw some time with Eastview's top team against Eden Prairie, and didn't shy away from the competition. He has a very mature feel to his game, and handles the rock with poise and patience. Against St. Paul Washington playing with Eastview's second team, Kenji was more aggressive scoring the ball. He is a tough finisher around the rim, and has a smooth stroke from beyond the arc. Whether scoring the rock or dishing the ball to open teammates, Kenji was an impact player on the floor at all times. Drew White (6'4 2020 W, St. Paul Washington)- Drew White has a lot of good pieces to work with, it's all a matter of consistency that will determine where he goes at the next level. He has the physical tools of size, strength, and vertical leaping ability. Drew is also a strong attacker off the dribble with the ability to fight through contact to finish. He can knock down shots from the mid-range, and if he can show more consistency in the outside shot, he'll be a dangerous player. Put up big scoring numbers in two fall league games, a trend that should continue into the season. Danny McGraw (6'6 2020 F, Cretin-Derham Hall)- I only caught the first half of CDH's game against Prior Lake, but Danny McGraw put in the best performance that I've seen out of him. Scoring 9 or 10 points in the first half alone for the Raiders, he showed off a versatile scoring package. He finished a couple of opportunities in the paint, while also stepping outside to knockdown a couple of jump shots. He won't be called upon to have a large offensive role during the winter, but he can contribute at times with his size and touch around the rim. Worth a look from D3 schools in need of some size. Xavier White (6'5 2021 W, Hopkins)- It isn't likely that Xavier will remain a sleeper much longer, as his game screams potential. He has a long and wiry frame on the wing, and has the athleticism to both take defenders off the dribble, and defend multiple positions on the other end. Against Minneapolis North he showed off his range that extends past the college three point line, with a smooth and high-arcing shot that goes in at a consistent rate. As the younger brother of Royce White, Xavier has a great mentor to teach him the game, and it will be exciting to watch his development over his remaining two seasons. Jacob Butler (6'3 2022 W, Minneapolis North)- One of the young players that will be called upon to contribute for North this season is Jacob Butler. A lanky young wing with tenacity around the rim, Butler is an intriguing prospect with a nice looking ceiling. With North taking on Hopkins, Butler stepped up and was able to get to the rim to finish on multiple occasions. He has also been impressive all fall with his outside shot, adding to his versatile offensive game. Part of one of the state's most talented 2022 groups at Minneapolis North. David Ijadimbola (6'2 2020 PG, Park Center)- David isn't a traditional sleeper as he is a relatively well known name at Park Center, but due to the talent around him it isn't entirely recognized just how good he is. He got the chance to shine at times over the weekend with his agility and tenacity defending on-ball. He forced multiple turnovers with his effort to pick up opposing ball handlers full court. On offense he has a quick pull-up jumper from mid-range and can blow by defenders to get to the rim. Has multiple NAIA offers after a strong AAU season. Evan Lind (6'8 2020 C, Bloomington Jefferson)- I watched Bloomington Jefferson as a chance to get another look at Manny Montgomery, but came away impressed with the potential of Evan Lind. A post prospect standing in the 6'7-6'8 range (couldn't find a listed height), and he has mobility that isn't always found in players his size. In the paint he plays with an edge, and although he isn't the most built player, he has strength to power through contact, as well as the touch to finish off opportunities around the rim. A deep sleeper post player who averaged 6.2 ppg last season as a junior, Evan Lind looks like a player worthy of D3 looks as he continues to improve.