6/3 Prospect Spotlight: 2021 Bigs

The prospect spotlight today is on some high-energy frontcourt players.

Ola Ajiboye (6-6 PF, Von Steuben)

Ajiboye looks like a player that is just going to continue to improve. He has length that cannot be taught, allowing him to play much bigger than his 6-foot-6 listing. Von Steuben’s big man is a defensive stalwart that controls that paint as a shot blocker. His offensive game continues to expand outside of dump-off finishes as he becomes more comfortable attacking off a few dribbles and hitting mid-range shots. Everything about his physique suggests that he will see exponential growth in a college training program. College coaches have been impressed with his upside and he currently has multiple Division 1 offers.

Aneas Davenport (6-6 PF, Morgan Park)

Rebounding is about effort and Davenport is relentless on both backboards. Playing a complementary role on one of the more talented teams in the state, he bought into his role as a rebounder and defender. Davenport creates second opportunities frequently by shedding boxouts, positioning himself for offensive rebounds, and out jumping defenders. As he heads into his senior year, he will have a larger offensive role after doing most of his work diving to the rim and as a receiver off dribble drives. Coaches will appreciate the way he plays.

KJ Debrick (6-8 C, Springfield Lanphier)

Debrick is one of the premier rim protectors in the state, blocking over five shots a game as a junior. He’s got good size for a college big at 6-foot-8, but poses as an even bigger threat at the rim with his long arms and timing to reject shots. That interior defense is going to draw a lot of interest, especially for college teams lacking in a true post presence to anchor their defense. Debrick’s offensive game is continuing to develop, with hard rolls and second chances being his primary sources of production. He is ready to produce on the defensive end at a Division-1 level.

Devon Vanderheydt (6-7 PF, Washington)

The 6-foot-7 stretch four has a quick, easy release from the three-point line that makes him a mismatch for most bigs. His ability to space the floor opens up a lot of options for teammates and for his own penetration. More of a combo forward than a natural big, Vanderheydt will run the wings in transition and can attack off a couple of dribble in the half court. He hasn’t even maxed his athleticism out yet, which is saying something seeing how smoothly he moves for his size.

Matt Williams (6-5 PF, Peoria Notre Dame)

Williams has a nice combination of size, energy, and skill at the forward spot. He is a high-rate finisher around the rim, with the ability to score in traffic and make hooks and scoop shots against size. At 6-foot-5, he is a tough matchup with his back to the basket, displaying good footwork and counter moves. With his comfort putting the ball on the ground to attack the rim, he projects as a dangerous face-up scorer as well. As an outlet in the pick-and-roll game, Williams has excellent hands and has improving range out to the three-point line when left alone. His understanding of positioning and his activity level make him a strong defender and rebounder. Williams would be a big addition to a D2 program.