By Jordan Burton (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
The basketball season has officially kicked off in Missouri and with that comes the anticipation for some exciting games and amazing talent. Here is a list of the Class 2 Boys Basketball Players to Watch this season.
Landen Campbell, Mansfield Senior
Campbell has been patiently waiting for his moment to shine as Mansfield has been filled with exceptional talent in the past few years. Now, it’s his time to step into the spotlight. He scored an impressive 500 points over the last two years as a key player on Final Four-caliber teams. Now, as a 6-foot-5 senior, Campbell returns as the leading scorer after averaging 9.1 points and shooting 55 percent from the field. His performance in big games against Fair Grove, Thayer, and Fatima, where he averaged 15 points, makes him a player to keep an eye on this season.
Ethan Cotter, Bakersfield Senior
Cotter is a guard known for his electrifying and jaw-dropping moves on the court. His unbelievable stats of averaging 24.9 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists make him one of the most dynamic players in the Ozarks. Standing at approximately 5-foot-9, his agility and skills make him a force to be reckoned with every time he steps onto the court.
Jalon Cryer, Hartville Senior
As the latest Eagle to receive all-state honors, Cryer has shown his prowess on the court. Averaging 14.4 points and 3.1 rebounds as a junior, he led Hartville back to the Final Four. His ability to get to the paint and shoot at a 36 percent 3-point accuracy sets him apart as a crafty and skillful player.
Grant Culver, Hartville Senior
Culver, a 6-foot-5 big, brings skill and intelligence to the game. His capability to shoot the 3 and make astute passes makes him a valuable asset to the team. With an average of 10.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists as a junior, he certainly poses a challenge for opposing teams.
Noah Drake & Peyton McDaris, Norwood Juniors
This duo, along with Copper Vaughan, forms one of the most productive trios in the Ozarks. McDaris, being the floor general, leads the team in assists (4.6). On the other hand, Drake and Vaughan are the point scorers, with Drake averaging 17.7 and Vaughan adding 15.1 points. Their combined skills make their team one of the most formidable in their class.
Gage Johnson, Weaubleau Senior
Johnson’s knack for scoring, along with his exceptional shooting ability, sets him apart from the rest. Averaging 19.2 points and shooting 45 percent from 3-point range, he has proven himself as an all-state selection and the Polk County League Player of the Year. His unique skills make him a standout player in Class 2.
Cody Jones, Galena Sophomore
Jones, a freshman who has quickly made a name for himself, averaged 17 points and 4.3 rebounds, showcasing his exceptional talent. His impressive performance on the court makes him a player to watch out for this season.
Carter Keeling, Purdy Junior
Keeling, standing at 6-foot-3, is known for his sharp shooting skills. His impressive stats of averaging 15.1 points and 5.2 rebounds as a sophomore, along with earning All-Conference and All-District honors, make him one of the best shooters in his program’s history.
Easton McGee, Gainesville Senior
McGee, an All-Summit and all-district selection last year, is known for his all-around game. Averaging 13.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.7 assists, he has the ability to impact the game in various ways, making him an invaluable asset to his team.
In conclusion, with these exceptional players showcasing their talents and skills on the court, this basketball season in Missouri promises to be an exciting and electrifying one. These players are definitely the ones to watch as they carve out their paths to success in the world of basketball.