Here are a handful of forwards in the 2021 class with good athleticism and activity.
Donald Coats (6-7 PF, Thornton)
At 6-foot-7, Coats is a combo forward that is going to be able to defend multiple positions in college. He has great timing as a shot blocker and moves his feet well. Coats is a capable ball-handler that gets into the paint in straight lines where he is a threat to put a defender on a poster. Outside shooting is an area where he has promise, with decent touch right now on spot ups. Coats will be a star for Thornton as a senior.
Gary Johns (6-7 PF, Westinghouse)
Johns is another big forward that can play the two through four. He’s got an old school look but a modern game as a lanky shooter. The smooth lefty is a good mid-range scorer and three-point threat. The wing may be his more natural position, but he has the versatility to play the four in college with his size.
Joe Melton (6-6 PF, Norris City)
The 6-foot-6 listing doesn’t do justice to how big Melton can play with his wingspan. A stretch four with length, Melton thrives on slipping screens and connecting on threes. Defensively, he alters and blocks a lot of shots. Rim protection and shooting are a combination that college coaches have pinpointed in bigs.
Danny Mulcare (6-6 PF, Glenbard West)
Mulcare is a strong, athletic four who does a lot of work on the interior. The 6-foot-6 forward is active on the glass and can finish in traffic or out in transition. He gets off the ground well, allowing him to protect the basket effectively. Mulcare is developing more perimeter skills, including his outside shot on the catch. He projects as a high-energy, athletic big at the next level.