I was very impressed with how well Knox moved at 6’6. And what I mean is, laterally Knox is very fluid, he is quick off his feet to finish and board, Donjae runs really well, and he is does that in a strong frame. That is the first part in being a guy that I think should fly up our charts, and on the white boards that are in the offices of many coaching staffs. The next part is seeing that movement lead to consistent numbers. We saw that this weekend, seeing it in fall league and next winter will be big. And if that happens, I think he could be a top spring signee (assuming somebody doesn’t step in in the next month).

Knox had a load of open floor finishes that made the highlights which is great as it showcases how well he gets up and down the floor at his size. But what I loved to see from Knox was two very important things: 1) Knox moves well laterally in a way that gives him outstanding ball screen defensive potential, and out standing help defense potential, and 2) this is a player that I think can be a state wide rebounding leader. Similar to the way that Sambrew just decided 17u was his double-double playground leading to success, I think Knox can do the same thing this winter at Eagan if he puts that level of work to it. He has the potential for it.

Donjae turned in a fantastic day at The Expo, looking like he is in for a breakout senior season at Eagan. He was relentless attacking the basket, showcasing his strength, speed, and high motor. He would simply overpower defenders at the rim, as he was not afraid of finishing through contact. Knox also looked great defending on the ball, picking up a couple steals that led to fast break scores.

New Coach: Isaiah Robinson. Robinson goes from Two Rivers to Eagan and I think it’s a great move for the Eagles. Isaiah is one of the best up and coming coaches in the state and he gets a lot out of his guys. He did well for Hoop Habits 16s and while it was rough at Two Rivers last year, I think that experience will really help him.

Watching Hoop Habits, I thought Robinson got a lot out of his best players and I think Knox is a 6’6 frontcourt player that could have a great senior year playing for him. Knox was on the road so much in 17u that few local coaches saw him, and with next to nobody from Minnesota committing to schools outside of the five/six area these days, there was little chance for Knox to be seen by those locals that are giving opportunity. But with Knox being the top returning scorer/player for the Cats, I think he could have a big senior season that draws eyes.