I had a chance to catch some games last weekend at PH Live in Kansas City. It was a high-level event with good teams in every division. The talent was through the roof! Big names, stock risers, and sleepers were all well represented. Here are some of the players that stood out to me in the games I watched from the 17U division.
Ethan Scott | Team Buddy Buckets 2022
Ethan was super fun to watch. His ability to move without the ball and find open space is next level. He has great shot preparation and a quick release. When defenses tried to run him off the 3pt line he showed his package of crafty finishes around the rim. He did a great job of taking care of the ball all weekend too.
Sharrod Taylor | GAME Winner Basketball 2022
Sharrod was in his bag all weekend. In his first two games, Taylor had 29pts and 27pts. He scored from all 3 levels and did it in a variety of ways-- athletic rim finishes, middy pull-ups, and deep 3’s. I was most impressed with his defense. He competed on that end which led to steals and some incredible chase-down blocks. Big motor!
Arterio Morris | Dallas Showtyme
Morris was impressive all weekend. He is a high-level athlete and understands how to use it. In transition, he is elite. He has all the euro-steps and swing-step pickups in his bag, plus he’ll dunk on you too. In the halfcourt, defenses couldn’t keep him out of the paint.
Leland Walker | Team Teague 2022
Walker is a high-major PG. He did a good job of controlling the tempo and knowing when to push or slow it down. He got his teammates easy shots. He played with great pace in the pick and roll. He also competed on the defensive end.
Tijan Saine | International Elite 2022
Simply put, Tijan is a dog. He competes and plays hard every possession. He is lighting quick and has a shifty handle to go with it. He lived in the lane all weekend. He has an array of finishes around the basket and has no problem doing it over bigger defenders. Coaches buy stock now because he is a major stock riser in 2022.
Max Alexander | Team Buddy Buckets 2022
Alexander, a tough lefty guard, was in attack mode all weekend. He is a sneaky athlete with a quick first step. He got to his spots well and showed his ability to score at all three levels. I was most impressed with his rim finishing. Double pumps, veer finishes, euro steps-- he has them all.
Maleek Arington | Seattle Stars
Maleek was a consistent source of offense for his squad this weekend. He is a strong guard that understands how to use his body to create space when attacking the basket. He also showed his playmaking ability by getting his teammates easy shots. Maleek isn't just one of the best players in WA, he is one of the best in the country for 2022.
*all pictures used were taken by PrepHoops photographers. GWB does not own the rights to any of them.
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