The size in the paint was a key advantage for the Illinois Wolves 16 U group on Friday and Payne did a nice job of using his size and frame to his advantage. Payne blocked a couple shots at the rim and more importantly created second and third chances for his team to score with his offensive rebounding. A load to stop in the paint and not afraid to be physical, opponents have to seek out Payne and box him out or he will eat on the offensive glass. Strong team performance where I could’ve picked another couple guys to spotlight from the Illinois Wolves 16 U group.

Another rising name around the state of Illinois, Payne really came on strong as the weekend progressed, consistently utilizing his size and dynamic play to his advantage. One of the more effective forwards in attendance, he showed a strong ability to create and exploit angles around the basket, finding positions where he could do the most damage inside. His sense of awareness of how defenders were shading and defending him in the post allowed him to adjust and finish effectively. Kyler played through contact well, and at times, even flashed deep range, giving him a legitimate inside-out scoring presence. His efficiency on the offensive end, combined with his ability to control the glass, should continue to define his play throughout the summer.

Payne is a skilled big man listed at 6’5” that looks taller than that.  He is a big bodied post that plays with physicality around the hoop.  Soft hands and has excellent touch around the hoop.  Broad shouldered big man rebounds well in his area.

Payne’s a 6’5″ W from Waubonsie Valley and Breakaway . I was impressed with his movement off the ball on offense along with his physical frame, which was one of the best at the showcase.