We are giving an early look at some of the 2023 interior players who should be making some noise over the next few years.
Keon Alexander (6-6 PF, Bolingbrook)
Alexander is a springy post that is active around the basket on both ends He is a good finisher as a cutter and screen outlet. Defensively, Alexander is a solid rim protector who gets off the ground in a hurry. He can rebound effectively, especially offensively, due to his tenacity and athleticism. Going forward, Alexander is going to be a player to keep an eye on.
Owen Freeman (6-6 C, Bradley Bourbonnais)
Freeman is arguably the best true center in the 2023 class right now. A legit 6-foot-6 with long arms, Freeman is an efficient low post player that moves well for his size. Freeman has very good hands and looks to finish above the rim whenever possible. His ability to put the ball on the ground from the high post is promising, but his post game stands out. He plays with energy and competitiveness on the defensive end, leading to blocks and deflections. Freeman is a next-level post player.
Jackson Kotecki (6-6 PF, Saint Ignatius)
A long, growing forward, Kotecki fits the mold of a stretch four. He is a terrific shot blocker that does a good job going vertical defensively. As he adds strength, he is going to be able to contain multiple positions. Kotecki’s outside shot is his best weapon at this point, spacing out beyond the arc to connect on threes regularly. Look for Kotecki to show significant growth going into his sophomore season.
Donaven Younger (6-7 PF, Bolingbrook)
Younger has the size and skill to be a very tough matchup for years to come. He can shoot it from three off the catch or get out in transition to attack the basket. More of a combo forward than a true four, Younger handles the ball with confidence and pace. If a smaller defender tries to defend him, he is comfortable using his length to score in the post. Younger has a ton of potential that is already catching the attention of Division 1 schools like Chicago State, Drake, and Wisconsin-Milwaukee.