2023 Watch List: New Additions
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Most of the class of 2023 in North Carolina have finished their high school seasons at this point, but for some, they are moving on to the next level to continue their basketball careers. Here are some new names that…
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Continue ReadingMost of the class of 2023 in North Carolina have finished their high school seasons at this point, but for some, they are moving on to the next level to continue their basketball careers. Here are some new names that were added to the rankings this week that certainly deserve your attention.
Tymber Thompson averaged a near double-double this season for her team. It was almost a sure thing that she would score double digits as she continued to find dominant ways to get the ball through the hoop as she powered her way in the paint. She used her height to shoot over people, and she knows how to use her defender’s position to her advantage scoring even with contact inside. She is sure to get inside to grab rebounds on both ends of the court, too.
Deja White has excellent height and wingspan to be a huge factor on any basketball court. She is certain to grab rebounds no matter who is around her, and she can jump in front of passing lanes grabbing the steal to push the other direction. Opponents certainly pay for not sealing her or boxing her out as she can easily score from offensive boards or off the pass from the top of the key.
Riley Smith has been an excellent ball handler for Marvin Ridge being a big reason for their success over the years. She controls the tempo of the game knowing when to settle down to run an offensive play or push the ball up the court finding an open teammate for a fast break. She can score herself taking it for solo fast breaks or even step outside for three. She’s a tough defender keeping her opponent in front of her with her lateral quickness, too.
Jada Steele was a critical piece of the victory in the state championship game with Concord Academy bringing a strong inside presence to the court. She does a nice job sitting on the block and sealing off her defender constantly moving her body to have the best angle for an entry pass. She knows exactly how to use her post moves to turn to the basket and score some points. Her strength is another asset being able to move people out of the way as she grabs rebounds.
Laila Bush has nice athleticism where she can jump for rebounds against most people, and she uses her ball fakes to get around opponents. Her jab step and spin moves create space for her to pull up for her shot or attack the basket. Her height and length are also critical when it comes to blocking shots and protecting the basket. She anticipates passes, too, being able to jump into passing lanes for the steal.
Laurel Zlotkowski is a bit of a Swiss army knife on the court knowing exactly what to do each possession to help her team get some points. She can step outside knocking down a three pointer, and she easily gets lost with backdoor cuts being ready for the pass and two points. Her vision and awareness are excellent knowing when to make her move or find the gap to shift the defense. She hustles up and down the court on both ends making sure she can guard any player on the court whether that is a post inside or defending the basket against a good ball handler.