Becoming a freshman on varsity is an impressive feat but contributing to the cause and becoming a viable option stands out. In the pinnacle level of high school basketball, which draws similarities to 17U basketball in the spring, a young collegiate aspiring prospect can get ahead of the learning curve playing in the speed and physicality that “big boy ball” presents. In an environment that the Elite 14 presented with a plethora of recruitable athletes occupying the gymnasiums, three freshman displayed a skill set that translates to the varsity level and could potentially translate to the next level if they continue to build.
I had the chance to talk to the coaches at Houston Christian prior to their outing against Southwest Christian (AR) and assistant coach Teddy Wheeler mentioned point guard Noah Kon (2021) had the opportunity to be the 6th man and still finish out games. Kon’s play kept himself on the court as the hard nosed guard played physical defense, made plays without the ball and shot it solid off the bounce against division one length. Noah keeps opposing defenses on their feet as he looks to get to the cup but can get himself caught up in a jam. The Houston Christian product is a top 25 TBB prospect in 2021 and Kon’s motor, athleticism and solid skill set makes him a prospect to keep looking at.
Looking at the speed Lancaster possesses especially with the guards is a sight to see and scoring guard Wade Taylor (2021) deameanor and poise in varsity competition felt as if he had years of experience. Taylor can light it up quick from the perimeter and even though he didn’t score a lot, he got to his spots on the floor as he looked to get his teammates involved. Defensively he competed on that side of the ball and when he wanted the ball in his hands he looked to crash the glass. Another top 25 prospect in 2021 that did himself a favor.
With the front court size The Colony possess in 2019 Bryce Okpoh and 2018 Kahliel Spears, Tay Mosher (2021) understands his role at the forward position and made the most of it. Mosher has a promising stroke from 3, finished in the paint with either hand and made a strong contribution on the offensive glass. Mosher was not in the TBB radar before The Elite 14 but now he is and we will keep track of his performances going forward.
Edited by: AB