The Top Gun Invitational tournament in Ottawa, ON was a showcase of some of the best basketball prospects in Canada. Including representatives from 4 provinces, I had the chance to watch some of the games and take notes on the players that impressed me the most. Here are my scouting reports for eight of them:
Hudson Ward (6'8, WCPA): A versatile forward who can score inside and out, Ward impressed with his ability to stretch the floor, attack the rim and finish through contact. He also showed good defensive instincts, rebounding and passing skills. Ward has a high motor, a good feel for the game and a mature approach. He is a prototypical modern wing who can play multiple positions and impact the game in various ways.
Sam Akot (6'7, CTA): A smooth and athletic wing who can create his own shot, Akot displayed his scoring prowess throughout the tournament. He has a quick first step, a nice handle and a soft touch around the basket. He can also knock down mid-range and three-point shots with consistency. Akot is a confident and aggressive player who can take over games with his offensive arsenal. He has the tools and the talent to be a high-level prospect.
Shadrak Lasu (6'8, Northstar Prep): A long and explosive forward who can dominate the paint, Lasu was a force on both ends of the floor. He has great size, strength and athleticism for his position. He can finish above the rim, block shots, run the floor and crash the boards. He also showed some flashes of a developing perimeter game, hitting a few jumpers and handling the ball in transition. Lasu is still raw, but he has a huge upside and a lot of potential.
JR Brutus (6'3, CTA Red): A quick and crafty guard who can run the show, Brutus was one of the best playmakers in the tournament. He has great vision, passing and ball-handling skills. He can set up his teammates, break down defenses and get to the basket. He can also score from different levels, hitting pull-up jumpers, floaters and three-pointers. Brutus is a smart and savvy player who knows how to control the tempo and run an offense. He needs to improve his defense and athleticism, but he has a lot of upside as a combo guard.
Amare Allen (6'6, CODE Academy): A strong and skilled forward who can do it all, Allen was one of the most versatile players in the tournament. He has a solid frame, a high IQ and a well-rounded game. He can score from inside and out, posting up, driving or shooting. He can also rebound, defend, pass and handle the ball. Allen is a jack-of-all-trades who can play multiple positions and roles on the court. He needs to improve his consistency and aggressiveness, but he has a lot of potential as a two-way player.
Matt Anglo (6'3, Tri City Prep): A sharp-shooting guard who can light it up from deep, Anglo was one of the best shooters in the tournament. He has a quick release, a smooth stroke and a range that extends beyond the arc. He can catch-and-shoot, pull-up or shoot off screens. He can also put the ball on the floor and get to the rim or create for others. Anglo is a confident and clutch player who can change the game with his shooting ability. He needs to improve his communication & vocal leadership, but he has a lot of value as a floor general.
Arafan Diane (7'0, Dynastie): A towering center who can protect the rim, Diane was one of the most imposing players in the tournament. He has great height, length and physicality for his size. He can alter shots, grab rebounds and start fast breaks with his outlet passes. He can also finish around the basket with dunks or hooks. Diane is still learning the game and needs to work on his skills and conditioning, but he has a rare combination of size and athleticism that makes him an intriguing prospect.
Raj Dhadda (6'4, CTA West): A smooth and skilled guard who can score in bunches, Dhadda was one of the most efficient players in the tournament. He has a good frame, a nice touch and a knack for scoring. He can make shots from all over the court, using screens, dribbles or cuts. He can also create for himself or others with his handle and vision. Dhadda is a smart and composed player who knows how to pick his spots and make plays. He needs to improve his defense and explosiveness, but he has a lot of potential as a scorer.
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