Spring Preview Camp Top Performers Part I
Our Spring Preview was the perfect way to bring in the travel season. There were a ton of talented players in attendance competing. There were some performances that stood out. Read on for part I of our camp top performers.
Chase Ballard, Guard, 2021: Of all of the outstanding performers, Ballard may have had the most complete showing. Ballard pestered opposing ball handlers with suffocating on-ball defense. He used his quick hands to get steals which led to easy transition buckets. On the other side of the court, he showed a James-Harden-like ability to hit tough step-back 3-pointers. Ballard is an adept finisher around the rim, and he’s always looking to get open shots for his teammates. - Josh Tec
D’Ante Bass, Wing, 2022: Bass's versatility was on full display throughout the camp. He was effective scoring out on the perimeter and inside the paint. His handle has improved since last travel season, giving him the ability to take defenders off the dribble and make plays from the wing. He also shot well from three. There was a point where he hit three consecutive 3-pointers with the defense in his face. His athleticism is through the roof. His ability to maneuver his way through traffic and change directions in the air is impressive. We all know about his dunking ability. He threw down several powerful dunks during game play, including a monster wind-mill. It should be a big travel season for Bass. - Brianna Patton
Mason Kemp, Guard, 2022: Kemp may be one of the best pure shooters in the area. If he gets any space beyond the arc, he’s letting it fly, and it’s probably going in. While shooting is what makes him most dangerous, Kemp isn’t limited to 3-point range. He puts himself in situations to be a successful rebounder, he moves well off the ball, and he’s an excellent finisher around the rim. - Josh Tec
Mitch Taylor, Guard, 2022: Taylor’s ability to get to the rim and finish can be awe-inducing at times. He uses his athleticism to complete acrobatic finishes around the basket. Taylor showcases his tremendous basketball IQ by choosing the right times to attack the basket and to kick the ball out to an open teammate. He’s the kind of guard that can lead a lengthy run in a game. - Josh Tec
EJ Walker, Guard, 2021: Walker was one of my favorite players to watch at the camp. He is not the most athletic or flashy player, but man it is hard to take your eyes off of him. Good things happen when the ball is in his hands, it is just that simple. He plays with so much poise and patience. He has a good feel for the game that enables him to control the pace. He can score the ball from any spot on the floor. Walker had a lot of success off the drive. He was able to get past the first level of the defense and made good reads at the second level to get to the basket. He also shot it well from outside. His passing ability stood out during the camp as well. He found D'Ante Bass a lot around the basket and kicked it out to open shooters after drawing the defense in. This available senior should be near the top of lists. - Brianna Patton