Each year, the recruiting landscape becomes more and more challenging for prospects to navigate. The talent pool at all levels is greater than ever before largely due to the ability to play college athletics for an increased period. Ultimately, it’s terrific for coaches and the overall on-court product, but inevitably limits a player’s options. Take the North Lincoln pairing of Kellen Karr and Ty Sanders, for example. Both are productive guys who have performed in every possible setting over the recent years. College coaches certainly covet each of these players, but only time will tell where they ultimately further their respective playing careers. Let’s take a closer look at the path for each guy…
Starting with Karr, whose varsity-level production has been undeniably impressive throughout the years. As a freshman, he averaged 9.7 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.9 SPG, and 1.0 BPG with 51/40/63 splits. Already delivering at an insanely impressive level, his numbers continued to expand. In his sophomore season, Karr posted 14.9 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 4.9 APG, 2.7 SPG, and 1.5 BPG with 50/36/68 splits. His per-game averages grew as a junior, putting up 17.3 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 5.9 APG, 2.7 SPG, and 0.8 BPG with 55/41/70 splits. It probably shouldn’t come as a surprise, as he simply causes matchup problems for every opponent North Lincoln faces. At 6-foot-6, Karr is a highly skilled player and general mismatch on the court. His blend of IQ, size, and skillset make him an extremely versatile player. Karr is a terrific playmaker with the ability to score at a high volume and efficient rate from anywhere on the floor. He’s a great rebounder who can defend multiple positions and push the break in transition. Karr can effectively produce in various roles and is capable of altering his approach based on team needs. There are so many programs that can use a guy like him.
On the other hand, Sanders is quite different. He doesn’t possess a frame like his cohort, so watching his game blossom has been exciting. Starting as a freshman, Sanders had to dominate JV before eventually getting his opportunity to play minutes on the varsity squad. Going into his sophomore year, he clearly took a step forward. Sanders averaged 12.2 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 4.0 APG, and 1.1 SPG with 43/29/48 splits. Although he needed to become more efficient, it was clear that he possessed the makings of a next-level player. Not only did he address the negatives, but Sanders continued to grow and become more athletic. As a junior, he posted per-game averages of 15.0 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.8 APG, and 1.0 SPG with 51/42/59 splits (drastically improving his efficiency on basically the exact same number of attempts). The numbers actually encompass Sanders’ game quite well. He’s a knockdown shooter who can initiate the offense, attack off the bounce, and make smart decisions with the ball in his hands. Sanders is a better athlete and defender than initially meets the eye, yet also understands how to play to his strengths. Whether being a key piece or complementary player, it’s clear that he’s worthy of playing at the next level. Add in his size and academics, and it’s shocking more schools haven’t gotten involved with Sanders.