Amari Allen takes backseat to no guard; and others from All-State Camp

Hamtramck 2023 Amare Allen.

Michigan’s 2023 class is stacked with talented point guards. One who didn’t built his rep from middle school highlights but instead forged his game the old fashioned way as a varsity freshman on one of the state’s best teams — 6-2 Hamtramck sophomore Amari Allen. He battled all day against some of Michigan’s elite at the Bank Hoops All-State Camp. Nearly literally, as Allen is born game ready with a rugged body which he’ll carom into the lane to kick the ball out to shooters, or jump passing lanes hustling on defense. Doesn’t indulge, get caught too far in the lane, or generally do dumb things with the ball, particularly for a younger player. Can hit the step-back 3. As that becomes more consistent, could write his ticket as Allen competes and has the presence or a ride or die for the game.

“Fearless competitor with a motor,” a coach said. “Big upside potential.”

Grand Rapids Christian 2021 Devon Boyd.

Devon Boyd  6-4  Sr  Grand Rapids Christian: Piles up points at the rim as he has a big body but quick second and third effort on the glass. Scores there with tips, oops, transition reverses and straight-line drives. A great secondary option to Pierre Brooks at camp, similar to in high school where the Eagles had games with Boyd as their leading scorer playing alongside Kobe Bufkin. Athletic defender who will block dunks or 3s. Not just a highlight defender, he’s vocal, aware, physical, coming from a program that values very much that end of the floor playing for Eric Taylor and GR Christian. A plus guy with his effort and physical tools, a three-position defender at the GLIAC level. Bit of a tweener with points of emphasis on touch and true guard game.

Benzie Central 2022 Nate Childers.

Nate Childers  6-1  Jr  Benzie Central: Last we saw him about a month ago, Childers was thrown into the fire at the Great 8 AAU tournament in Ft. Wayne, yet on the first morning playing with brand new teammates against the eventual champion, he didn’t blink. Nor did he here. Shot it as well as anyone — 3s on the break, 3s on kicks outs, 3s off the dribble. Very strong and competes defensively and will put in his time on the glass. Fundamentally strong and well-drilled, his development as a facilitator will help make Childers a next-level guard. A near 4.0 gpa helps on that front as well.

Shawn Goodman  6-7  Sr  Jalen Rose Academy: He was matched up all day against bigger players — both in physical size and recruiting reputation — and was very credible out there, not conceding anything and likewise making them respect him facing up away from the basket.

“Fast riser who just started playing a few years ago,” a coach said. “Wants to be good and plays with an edge.  Improvement showing on a monthly basis.”

Bronson 2023 Aden Hathaway.

Aden Hathaway  5-9  So  Bronson: Distinguished himself amidst a sea of big-time 2023 guards.

“This kid is going to be really good in two years,” a coach said. “High natural court IQ.  Has the sixth sense of a great point guard.  Once the body strength catches up  — next level cerebral point guard.”

Flushing 2023 Makhi McCombs.

Makhi McCombs  6-3  Sr  Flushing: He was outstanding at the David Barns Showcase and came with the same kind of competitive fire here.

“One of my favorite guards there.  Maybe my favorite,” said one coach. “Athlete. Body. Desire. Size. Competitiveness.  He’s the real deal and can play with anyone.  Saw mostly drives, which were fantastic.  If the outside shot is equally as good — sky is the limit.”

Brent Wiles  6-4  Sr  New Haven: Versatile not just as a generic hoop adjective but in actual practice. In one game, Wiles checked on successive possessions a 5-9, a big and a wing; hit three straight 3s in the first half; went down low to beat up a smaller defender repeatedly in the second half. Did a good job staying in front of Jared Lary, a 6-5 senior with a Cleveland State offer. Dig downs or help-side blocks from the wing. Comes from a championship program, and brings the little things, the competitiveness, caring, and even some team thoughts into a context that doesn’t always happen. Hoop smart and book smart with 3.9 gpa. College coaches like his production want to see above-the-rim finishes.