One of the more competitive games I saw all weekend was Midwest Pumas Benson Vs Love 4 The Game as that was one of two overtime games I was at all weekend. Rucker was a standout in that contest as he did a nice job of attacking closeouts and using his strength to finish at the basket. I always like players who excel at multiple sports and Rucker has a strong frame developed from playing quarterback that allows him to take contact and still finish at the basket, Rucker had a couple lefty finishes at the rim that were tough plays to make. Rucker is also a knockdown shooter with his feet set and hit some impressive shots from downtown as both he and Cooper Stoneking Cooper Stoneking 6'2" | SG/PG Chillicothe | 2026 State OH caught fire in the second half. I thought Midwest Pumas Benson had a handful of small college targets and are a team college coaches should be checking out as the grassroots season continues.

It’s been a slow start to the hoops season for Wheelersburg after Rucker and a handful of his teammates just finished off another deep playoff push. With two wins to close out the new year and some big games from Rucker, momentum is building before a clash with unbeaten South Webster on January 3rd. If Wheelersburg is going to pull the upset, they’ll need Rucker to knock down shots from the outside and take care of the basketball, two skills he’s shown he’s capable of performing.

The shooting specialist on his team, Rucker was making it rain on Saturday with his quick release and confident stroke. Able to knock down shots off the bounce or the catch, Rucker was shot-ready when catching passes and doesn’t need much time or space to let it fly from long distance. I also was impressed with Rucker’s ability to finish with his left hand at the rim. Rucker was even a couple inches away from throwing down a left-handed dunk on a defender but ended up laying it up as he went above the rim. Really liked what I saw offensively from Rucker and in my next scout will try and focus more on what he brings to the table defensively.