Montanari was so dominant in Dana Barros’ first game of the weekend against Team Ready that he was getting the SGA and Ant Edwards treatment (a double team at half court) for most of the game. Even so, the 6-foot-2 wing/guard was too quick and athletic for the defense at times, showcasing some incredible quick-twitch movements and finishing ability. He looks more controlled and under balance than I’ve seen him in the past, and he is certainly better at making kickout passes as well. After an entire season of double teams, Montanari looks more ready to play within an offensive system, and he’ll probably find a D3 fit shortly.

Montaneri, a wing out of New Bedford High School in Massachusetts, makes his first appearance in the rankings at #178. A long and explosive 6’2″ wing, Montanari makes plays all over the floor with his physical gifts and instincts. He has a quick first step off the bounce, allowing him to get into the paint where he finishes it and creates for others. He elevates nicely into his jumper, showing the ability to get it off over any defender. On top of that, he does a great job of creating turnovers defensively, both on and off the ball, and then converting them as scoring opportunities in transition. He remains undecided on his college destination.

Montaneri is a freak athlete at the guard position who relentlessly attacks the hoop and simply won’t take no for an answer. He’s constantly looking to get downhill and has the quickness and strength to do so. Once he’s in the paint, he does a phenomenal job taking contact in the air and can finish in a variety of ways. Montaneri should be one of the best players in the MIAA and will probably score TONS of points for New Bedford High School this season. He’s a really interesting post-grad candidate for prep schools looking for a scoring punch and a competitor.