River City Run: Five 17U Standouts
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I got the pleasure of covering the 17U division this past weekend at PGH’s River City Run and there were many players that really made their presence known. I only picked one player from each team in my initial standout…
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Continue ReadingI got the pleasure of covering the 17U division this past weekend at PGH’s River City Run and there were many players that really made their presence known. I only picked one player from each team in my initial standout articles, but I wanted to mention 5 other players that really stood out throughout the weekend. On top of the following players, I also want to give a shoutout to one team in particular that could have their entire roster included in this article: United Family 3SSB. If you get the chance to watch this group compete, I highly recommend taking the time to do just that. They were extremely fun to watch this weekend and their entire roster is capable of playing at the highest level in college.
Bender has always impressed me on the offensive end and there was no shortage of offense in her game this weekend, but I was really impressed by her defense as well. She was constantly coming up with steals, deflections, and blocks. She consistently showed her ability to score at all 3 levels, whether creating looks herself or finishing off of passes from her teammates.
Wallace is long and athletic. Her overall game is very smooth. She’s a 3 level scorer who can do whatever you want her to do on the court. Rebounds, defends, makes shots, great handles, solid passes, etc. She didn’t force and made great decisions with the ball. Ran the floor well and played great defense. Illinois is getting a star in Wallace.
Sipes had a fantastic weekend. She is a big threat offensively as she can knock down shots with deep range or finish strong at the rim. She made great moves to get past defenders and she finished in crafty ways around the basket. She has a quick release on her outside shot and can utilize shot fakes to get better looks. Solid ball handling skills and made great passes as well. Major potential.
Highlights
Victory Sledge
Victory Sledge
Sledge is strong and impacts the game on both ends of the floor. Makes strong drives to the hoop and can handle contact. Has very active hands defensively that help her come up with steals both on and off of the ball. Crashes the boards and has a knack for getting rebounds. Can double clutch in the air to get better looks at the basket. Really solid all-around.
Couch is an excellent offensive threat, but she really contributed in every way possible. Plays great defense and is really solid rebounder, can score in so many different ways, great hands, great moves down low, and simply tough. Plays through contact and isn’t afraid of physicality. I didn’t see any consistent weakness in her game all throughout the weekend.