Thorpe looked like a player trending in the right direction during the two games I was able to watch. His defensive impact stood out immediately, as he showed the ability to guard on the perimeter while also using his frame to eat up space on the interior. That combination of size and mobility gives him intriguing defensive versatility and allows him to affect the game in a variety of ways. He was also effective as a screener, consistently freeing up space for teammates and helping create offensive opportunities without needing the ball in his hands. Thorpe made numerous plays with his ability to alter shots around the basket, using his length and timing to disrupt opposing offenses. While his offensive game is still developing, I appreciated the different ways he found to leave a positive imprint on the contest. Whether it was screening, defending, rebounding, or making hustle plays, he consistently contributed to winning basketball. As he continues to expand his offensive skill set, I expect Thorpe to take on a larger role on that end of the floor this upcoming season. The tools are there, and his recent performances suggest he is beginning to put everything together.

Thorpe, a forward out of the Northfield Mount Hermon School in Massachusetts, checks in at #4 among the power forwards and #21 overall. Thorpe has made a jump in his production this year, in large part to increased strength, which has allowed him to make more of an impact as a finisher and rim protector. The 6’9″ forward has great length, understands how to play the game, and has really good footwork for only being a sophomore. He does a nice job of running the floor in transition, is finishing with more authority around the rim offensively, and has solid timing and instincts when blocking shots on the other end of the floor.

The only underclassman in the rotation for NMH, Thorpe has a case for having the highest upside in the rotation, as shown with his spirited play off the bench in the first round win over Millbrook (NY). An athletic rim-runner with an impressively sculpted frame, Thorpe made his biggest mark on the defensive end, using a blend of length and quick feet to consistently plug gaps on his way to multiple blocked shots. He ran the floor hard for good position in early offense where he shows impressive pop and budding skill as a finisher. Thorpe could catch attention up to the mid-to-high major level with continued skill progression in the coming years.

Thorpe is an ultra-intriguing long term prospect who should improve a lot this season with some good reps and playing time for a talented NMH team. Even though his skillset is still coming along, he has a great understanding of short roll passing and actually has some really solid body control. He also understands screening angles and timing and can be a good rim running center right now with his leaping ability and speed. Definitely watch for him to develop this year.

Thorpe, an intriguing young big out of Northfield Mount Hermon, has had some impressive moments on the hardwood this spring while running with Expressions Elite. An agile big, he moves really well for someone with his height, particularly at such a young age. He’s gotten stronger, and subsequently, more athletic, while continuing to show a good feel for the game. He scores over either shoulder in the post, runs the floor really well in transition, and can knock down shots in the mid-range. He does a good job of rebounding around the rim, offers some shot blocking, and has the mobility needed to guard on the perimeter in stretches.