The development of shoe-circuits and their constantly expanding list of teams has been an interesting exercise for the grassroots community. While these secondary circuits have basically fallen flat, they haven’t seen much issue in getting kids and parents to sign up year after year. However, the contrast lies within the ascension of programs like 1 of 1 Elite/Rare and how going against the grain has actually benefitted players more than the vast majority of travel ball situations. While most of their players have seen a clear uptick in their respective recruitments, this article will take a closer look at two specific guys—Gevonte Ware and Tayeshaun Smith.
Given everything Ware has shown since arriving on the scene, it should come as no surprise that he’s starting to blow up. The appeal should be fairly obvious as a strong, mobile 6-foot-9 big man with touch, soft hands, and the ability to reliably anchor the paint on both ends of the floor. He’s a fluid athlete who moves well for his size, runs the floor properly in transition, and understands how to produce as a low-maintenance piece within the flow of the team structure. Ware can finish above the rim or over either shoulder, and is capable of spacing the floor at a quality rate from beyond the arc. Add in his screening, rebounding instincts, and rim-protection ability, and it’s easy to see what makes him one of the top prospects in North Carolina’s Class of 2025.
Meanwhile, Smith is someone who should probably have more action within his current recruitment. Although multiple schools have gotten involved, there should be more programs enticed by his steady, productive presence on both ends of the floor. At 6-foot-7 with long arms and a strong frame, Smith is able to compete physically with essentially any type of matchup. He outworks opponents for rebounds and loose balls, and shows a clear willingness to do whatever possible to provide his team with an edge. Smith can finish around the basket, score out of the post, or hit jumpers at a healthy rate from midrange or beyond the arc. He moves very well for his size, rebounds nicely on both ends, and displays the ability to contain big men while actively switching (and containing) smaller opponents. Both guys have proven their worth as players and long-term prospects, and should only continue to collect offers over the coming months.