We are writing on some 2021 four men that fit the mold of active power forwards.
Ashawn Burbridge (6-5 PF, Joliet West)
A very high-energy four, Burbridge plays with a ton of activity on both ends. He doesn’t have great size for a post player, but he has toughness and good athleticism to make up for it. Burbridge cleans the glass, using his quickness to his advantage. On one of the top teams in the state, look for more colleges to take a look at Burbridge.
Kyle Engstler (6-5 PF, Downers Grove North)
Engstler is a strong athlete that can score with his back to the basket or from the perimeter. While he will play more four in college, he is athletic enough and shows enough handling ability to play the three. Engstler has good balance on his shot with the frame to get to the rim and finish with power. The versatility is there for Engstler to start to pique the interest of more coaches.
Michael Hamilton (6-6 PF, St. Patrick’s)
Hamilton is a springy four man who is difficult to keep off the glass. He understands how to separate on penetration to give his guards an angle to pass. Hamilton can finish above the rim with ease, showing a lot of bounce around the basket. There is no question that there are teams in need of active rim-running bigs like Hamilton.
Ahmad Tims (6-5 PF, Hinsdale South)
Tims is a solid finisher that has length to help him convert. He is more of a paint scorer, either in transition or off of post seals. As his face-up game develops, he will be able to step out on the perimeter more often. His outside shot is workable and should continue to improve. Tims brings athleticism and a projectable skill set.