2017 Upstate Scouting Service Throwdown Recap

 

 

Top 20:

 

Michael Ortale, Jr. (2019): Bethlehem Central HS, NY

Ortale is a lethal shooter with sneaky athleticism. He is an exceptional passer/playmaker and constantly makes those around him better. He took home this year’s MVP honors. Look for him to be a standout in Section II hoops this season.

 

Jelani Wiggins (2018): LaSalle Institute, NY

Wiggins was undoubtedly the most physically-gifted player in the gym. Standing 6’4, he rises high and finishes above the rim with ease. His windmill slams were the highlight of the day! His uncanny length and athleticism allowed him to be the ultimate defensive anchor for his team.

 

Josh Rodriguez (2021): Green Tech Charter HS, NY

Impressive young player. As quick as they come with a nice pull-up jumper. Solid defender, as well. Real high motor and not afraid to take it right at the defense.

 

Andrew Patnode (2019): Saratoga Springs HS, NY

The 6’7 big man made his presence known early on. He is adept at scoring around the rim and rebounding the ball–both offensively and defensively. In addition, he has a knack for knocking down the trey ball. His size and strength was obvious.

 

Tresor Niyonkuru (2020): Green Tech Charter HS, NY

Above-average defender with very good physical tools. Does all of the little things for his team. Plays with great poise and provides consistent scoring.

 

Wit Szymanksi (2022): Poland (Europe)

Szymanski was one of the most impressive players at the Throwdown, which is mind-boggling considering that he is just an eighth-grader. He’s a talented guard with skills in all aspects of the game. He plays hard on both ends of the court. A very promising prospect.

 

Braden LaClair (2018): Bethlehem Central HS, NY

LaClair demonstrated the ability to score in a variety of ways, and took pride on the defensive end. Good playmaking skills; wants to make those around him better.

 

Matt Larkin (2018): Saratoga Springs HS, NY

Larkin made a name for himself at the Throwdown. He plays with a remarkable toughness and demonstrated his high basketball I.Q. and feel for the game. He can score or dish out assists and does all of the little things for his team. Another player to keep your eyes on in Section II.

 

William Brown (2018): Amsterdam HS, NY

Brown is a talented scorer with sneaky athleticism. He is excellent in transition and is adept at finishing at the rim. One of the best defensive players in the gym.

 

Cale Sargent (2018): Ogdensburg Free Academy, NY

Sargent, a tough, 6’3 guard, played well at the Throwdown and provided stability for his team. He can score at the rim and is a capable three-point shooter. He possesses the strength and skills necessary to make an immediate impact for a program at the next level.

 

Jesse O’Dell (2018): Schalmont HS, NY

O’Dell, at 6’6, had a great showing and was one of the best back-to-basket players in the gym. His polished post skills and passing ability paved the way for his team’s success.

 

Duncan Tallmen (2019): Mohonasen, NY

Knockdown shooter with deep range. Does all of the intangible things well. Plays with an energy and fire that cannot be matched.

 

A.J. Lawton (2018): Saratoga Springs HS, NY

A skilled guard who will succeed in whatever role he’s placed in. Knockdown shooter from any spot on the court. Great decision maker.

 

Liam Schoonmaker (2019): Saugerties HS, NY

Skilled in all facets of the game. Shoots it well and did all of the little things for his team. Great motor with a winning mentality.

 

Khai Pugh (2019): Fayetteville-Manilus HS, NY

A crafty guard with a variety of skills. He has a great feel for the game and plays with an intelligence beyond his years. He gets to the right spots and is, for all intents and purposes, an ideal point guard.

 

Aaron Satin (2019): Colonie HS, NY

A strong who brings a lot to the table. His toughness was on full display from the outset. His quick first step allows him to get to the lane with ease, but he’s still a very capable outside shooter.

 

Casey Burke (2019): New Paltz HS, NY

One of the standout performers at the Throwdown. He plays with a “no-fear” attitude and has an exceptional ability of breaking down the defense. He is adept at getting his teammates involved and is a lights-out shooter from deep. Perfect player for any system.

 

Shane O’Dell (2020): Schalmont HS, NY

Impressive young player. Skills with size to match. One of the best two-way players in the gym. A bright future lies ahead.

 

Jakub Chadaj (2018): Poland (Europe)

A tad bit undersized at 6’5, but provides you with everything you want in a big man: strength, rebounding, athleticism, etc. He’s great in the screen and roll game and blocks shots with ease. Great motor.

 

Jay-Quan Johnson (2019): Schenectady HS, NY

Johnson epitomizes the statement “speed kills.” Lightning quick. Can score the ball, but is a wiling passer. Ball hawk.