Top 2009 Centers
Words. HShoop
DeMarcus Cousins (photo. Kelly Kline)
Finshing up HighSchoolHoop’s Class of 2009 breakdown are the centers…
1. DeMarcus Cousins: Mobile (AL) LeFlore - Committed to UAB
Cousins is oozing with potential. He hasn’t filled out yet and is already 6’9 245lbs. He can face up to the basket and score as well as using the low post to get his buckets.
2. Daniel Orton: Oklahoma City (OK) Bishop McGuinness - Undecided
Orton is a man-child. He is as strong as an ox and definitely uses his strength to his advantage on the offensive end. Defensively, Daniel is the best shot blocking big man in the country.
3. Keith Gallon: Mouth of Wilson (VA) Oak Hill Academy - Undeclared
The Oak Hill product is a good scorer in the post and has a decent variety of moves. Especially for his size.
4.Greg Echenique: Ridgewood (NJ) St. Benedict’s Prep - Committed to Rutgers
Echenique is a big body. At 6’8 263 lbs, Echenique uses his size to finish. He can take contact and convert buckets with ease. He also is an opposing force on the defensive end.
5. Derrick Nix: Detroit (MI) Pershing - Committed to Michigan State
Nix is a good rebounder who has great footwork for a kid his size. He’ll be a great addition for Coach Izzo and the Spartars.
6. Joe Burton: Hemet (CA) West Valley - Undeclared
Burton’s weight has been a major issue throughout his young career. If he can get that under control he’ll be a solid player at the next level.
7. DaShonte Riley: Birmingham (MI) – Detroit Country Day - Committed to Georgetown
One of the better shot blocking big men in the 2009 Class, Riley runs the floor very well and can get up over the basket. Once DaShonte works on his offensive game he be a serious force in the paint.
8. Jack Cooley: Glenview (IL) Glenbrook South - Committed to Notre Dame
Jack is a hard worker who likes to use his body. He is a mirror image of Luke Harangody. No wonder he is going to Notre Dame.
9. James Padgett: Brooklyn (NY) Lincoln - Undeclared
Padgett is an above average athlete who has good hands and can run the floor.
10. Collin Reddick: Mabelton (GA) Whitefield Academy - Undeclared
More of a defensive presence than an offensive one, Reddick’s upside is his athleticsm. His offensive game could use some polishing.
