Litherland made a junior year leap at McLoud, with a new level to his strength and fluidness as a mature scorer. So far this July, he’s backed that up with impressive highlights of his ability to gain separation to hit in the mid-range. Or explode all the way to the rim. Plays with a nice fluid light on his feet pace which keeps defenders on the heels. With good size and wingspan, he’s more than just a scorer. However his ability to put the ball in the bucket should help him open coaches’ eyes and lead to next level opportunities. Where the rest of the coach’s son’s game should lead to next level success.

Litherland has performed well for Team Oklahoma thus far across the prep circuits. Most recently, the junior showed why he will be one of the top players in the state for his senior season next winter. Edan had the ball in his hands a lot, providing both high-level passing and efficient scoring to help boost his team in Pro 16 Team competition in Bryant, Texas last week. Litherland routinely got into the paint and played under control, showing an ability to finish both at the rim and in mid-range situations. The McLoud standout uses his length well and can get separation by playing with a strong base. Edan utilized a step back move to create space while also incorporating turnaround jumpers from the post over smaller defenders.

Litherland has taken to leadership and all around role for his new program. Regularly paces McLoud in multiple stat categories. Along with the intangibles, he’s also elevated his scoring. Last fall, he looked to have taken the junior year leap when it comes to athleticism. Looking stronger and twitchier in getting to his spots. Unfortunately, the one in person viewing of McLoud this season came when Litherland on the mend from a bout with the flu. He was still productive, hitting tough mid-range jumpers and getting to the rim. But the impact of the illness was clear as his lift didn’t look the same.

A few days later, he was back to his normal self with a 30 ball against 3A contenders Chandler. He is clearly part of the pack of 2027 guards who should be priority targets for regional D2, NAIA and JuCo co programs. And very well could be leading that pack by the end of the summer.

The junior has had an outstanding season. He leads his team in scoring, rebounding, assists and steals per game. Litherland continued to show his all-around game in a win over Tecumseh. Edan came out strong and helped propel his team to a 14-point lead at the half. They would not need to worry from there, as they answered each rally from the Savages. Edan is one of the top leaders in the state for his class, his ability to communicate and help direct his team continued in this game. Tecumseh had no answer for his size and play-making with the ball in his hands. He routinely made the right play after breaking down defenders off the bounce early in the game. As a scorer, he showed that he can make a difference from all three levels. When he is hitting his 3-point shot consistently, the opposition must look to adjust. This is when he is at his best; reading the defense and creating “winning plays” for both himself and others.

The signs were there this summer and fall that Litherland was close to putting it together as a scorer. His first two years showed he had the skill foundation. But importantly over the last six months is the development of his strength and fluidness. After good consistent performances in wins for top 20 4A team McLoud, Litherland torched Harrah for 40 points and the dub. This month he’s also put 26 points on top tier 4A team, Mount Saint Mary. Plays with great control and feel, either getting to the rim or pulling up off the dribble with ease.

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Litherland is building momentum to be one of the more complete scorers in Oklahoma. Has deep range off the bounce, which helps open his ability to navigate to the basket. Footwork and handles are vital for him to carve up the defense. His spin moves and euro steps are now stronger and more graceful. Very good at creating that inch of space and that extra split second to find an opening at the rim or hit a tough pull up.

Litherland has some of the most experience on this list, as he’s been a two starter in 5A with Shawnee. Now with his father making the move west on I40 to become the head coach at McLoud, he’ll have a chance to be among the best scorers in loaded Class 4A. The skill level has been there. Now a summer of his body maturing and hitting the weights has him moving different. Played stronger on drives, with even a dash of flash to his dribble moves and gathers on drives to to the rim.

Even with the flash, the coach’s son fundamental aspect is still there. Stopping and popping to use the backboard in the mid-range. To slipping great passes to find teammates in crowds. Exciting mix of craftiness and improved athleticism makes him a top name to watch in Oklahoma’s small town ranks.

A productive freshman campaign, adding a little more height, stronger and quicker moves could have Litherland develop into one of the tougher covers in the mid-range this season. His body control was evident in the smoother stops for the mid-range, or his ability to elevate, hang and finish. Along with the scoring chops, has the background of being a coach’s son. Giving him a good full understanding of the game. So should be able to impact winning even when his shot isn’t falling.

Edan Litherland Edan Litherland 6'3" | PG/SG McLoud | 2027 State OK had an extremely impressive day at The Expo where he scored from all three levels and competed non-stop. He has a crafty handle and was able to get to his spots with ease which he converted with a wide variety of made threes. He also does a great job of attacking the rim and finishing strong. One aspect that caught my eye was how well he adjusted in the air after absorbing contact.

Edan is a smart player who showed his ability to move without the basketball. Knew how to move around to spread the floor and set screens that freed up the offense. Was good at being in the right spots to score as he made many cutting layups. Also showed his ability to dribble and bring the ball up the court to set up the offense. That led to many fast breaks being executed well by his ability to dribble past defenders and pass to the right guy or go score.