The glue guy in Monarch’s attack on both ends of the floor, you can immediately see Owen’s impact when he’s on the court. While he’s another physical player who can stretch the floor with his outside shooting, I think it’s his defensive presence that has everyone’s attention right now. He defended multiple positions on Friday and was really tough on the ball, keeping ball handlers in front of him and smothering anyone who tried to get into the painted area. He’s also an aggressive and impactful rebounder on both ends, consistently fighting for extra possessions. I think Laver will be critical to what Monarch Academy can accomplish this winter. Much like Huston, he looks bigger and stronger moving forward, which should only add to his impact.

The talented combo forward from Virginia, who played for Overtime Elite this season, made a strong impression with the Celtics to open the 3SSB circuit. Laver averaged over 10 points and 6 rebounds per game, showcasing a well rounded offensive skill set. He’s a reliable perimeter shot maker with the ability to stretch the floor, and an above average vertical athlete who can finish plays around the rim. His ball skills continue to improve, allowing him to handle and create in spots, and his versatility enables him to effectively play both forward positions.

Laver averaged over 5 points per game in his first season at Overtime Elite, gaining valuable experience against high-level competition. The sophomore is a skilled combo forward from Virginia who projects well as a stretch four. He is a reliable perimeter shot maker with range, pairs that with above-average vertical athleticism, and continues to improve his ball skills. As his all-around game develops, Laver has intriguing upside as a modern, floor-spacing forward.

Another Team Loaded squad continuing to win and move on, their 15 U group is stacked with talented prospects. Laver is a forward who is vertically explosive, can knock down an open shot and moved without the ball to get open looks. The physical gap up and down the roster between Team Loaded and the competition at the 15 U level is sharp as Laver is one of a few physically advanced players for this age group.