The Hoop State League has kicked off and Week 1 was off the charts, but we still have several weeks ahead that you and college coaches will not want to miss. We have been taking notes early on and we can tell you, there are a few players in the Class of 2023 that should garner more attention. Here are four players to look out for more and should be bigger priorities this upcoming high school season.
2023 Jaiden Thompson (Central Cabarrus): Thompson is one that I can't quite put my finger on, but I do really think that he is a guard that can help a program in a big way. When watching him at the Hoop State League, you can see that he has put in the work on developing his game, getting stronger as a player, improving his athleticism, and still being effective both offensively and defensively. Thompson brings a nice balance in helping run the show but also presents a strong scoring game, scoring in a variety of ways and finishing strong. But he can also bring it on the defensive end, creating steals or creating havoc for opponents overall. Really do believe this is a guard being overlooked but could be a great get for a program down the road.
2023 Rashad McCormick (Hough): Watching McCormick this summer and several times after that, he is a 6'6 prospect that has steadily improved and is showing more of how he can be used. Whether it is his long frame that allows him to finish over defenders or at the rim, or his ability to step out and knock down shots from multiple levels, McCormick just allows the game to him and takes what is given to him. He checks off several boxes that a program would like, and as we have said, he could be a nice hidden gem for the right program.
2023 Clinton Efinda (Combine Academy): We haven't had several chances of watching Efinda in action, so it was great to get an updated look at the 6'6 combo guard from Combine. The 2023 prospect already holds a few offers but he could continue to add more as he looks to lead his team this year. He is a strong, sturdy 6'6 prospect that can play above the rim and finish over defenders or at the rim with authority. He slashes and finishes really well but he can also make plays outside as well, displaying more of his overall feel. Strong, physical, and aggressive… he is one to watch out more for this year.
2023 Nick Dorn (Chambers): Dorn has a great opportunity this season and it starts at the Hoop State League. One of the clear leaders for JL Chambers, Dorn quickly looks the part of a college prospect with his 6'6 strong frame, his ability to be a game-changer from deep, and his ability to get downhill and finish strong. Dorn continues to add more to his game every time we see him, and with the losses Chambers faces from last year, he looks to be the senior to lead the way. He can fill it up quickly and should only see his recruitment continue to rise this season.
