A few standouts before championship Sunday at GRBA Nationals in Fort Wayne Indiana.
Deshaun Thrower ACB Bankhoops 5’11” 190 lbs PG- Most now him for being a quarterback for the state-finalist Muskegon Big Red football team, but many do not know that he has talents on the court. When it comes to hoops, he brings out his football toughness and skills as an advantage. He can lower his shoulder, and use his explosive quickness to get around weaker defenders and get into the lane. Another area I like of Thrower’s is his pull-up game, whether it be from three point land or mid-range he needs to be accounted for when coming down in transition. Plays hard on both sides of the ball and is one of Michigan’s underrated point guard prospects in the class of 2014.
Bronson Kessinger Spiece Indy Heat 2015 6’7″ 180 lbs SF/PF- Bronson is simply put an explosive athlete. Playing against a 17U team in tournament play, Kessinger went up and brought the entire court down with a one handed power slam over a defender. He played hard at both ends of the court, rebounding and playing down low in the post. Could turn into a nice pick-and-pop wing with a improving jumper. Has a majority of low to mid-major interest, but that can and will change by the time high school season comes along.
Xavier Simpson King James Shooting Stars 15u 5’9″ PG- Simpson played with his fellow King James Shooting Stars against a 16u team in Platinum play and was not phased at all playing older opponents. Many young guards would be scared to run the ball on the break against older and bigger guards, but not Simpson. Xavier always pushed the ball when he had the opportunity either creating for himself or his teammates. In the second half when Nashville decided to go zone, Simpson quickly spotted the adjustment and was making picture perfect dimes. But what stood out to me more was the fact that he plays bigger than his size would indicate. Not afraid to take and make big shots. Plays with heart.
Henry Baddley King James Shooting Stars 15u 6’3″ Wing- Another member of King James’ deep class of 2016. Baddely is a long athletic wing that excels in space and getting to the basket. Has nice bounce and athleticism on put backs and lay ins. It will be scary to see the day when his jump shot matches his driving abilities.
Mahir “Baby Earl” Williams Young and Reckless 15u 5’10” PG- Although Mahir has not played in a high school game yet, the future Proviso East Pirate has the savy and poise to one day blossom into a star. In one game against the heavily favored Illinois Wolves 15u, Williams put the team on his back scoring a game high 19 points leading Young and Reckless to the victory. Mahir played defense that resulted in a few easy run out opportunities, scored in a variety of ways, and rarely made a bad decision when it came to passing. He is a rare willing passer these days when it comes to point guards. With a some growth and weight gain, he could be a very well known prospect in a few years.
Follow me on Twitter: @mdhsathletics
The Prep Ball Report 