Balance. The legendary John Wooden stated this is one of the most important factors for basketball success. With the right mix of interior scoring and outside shooting, teams can make it a long night for opposing defenses. With that in mind, we look at some duos that should give opponents cause for concern.
Fort Lauderdale Calvary Christian
Inside: 6’9 SR Taylor Hendricks Outside: 6’4 SR Tyler Hendricks
It is unusual to find twin brothers with a five-inch height difference, but that doesn’t keep the Hendricks twins from playing well off each other. Taylor can step outside and shoot but he also has enough post moves and scoring tools inside to take advantage of smaller defenders. Tyler spaces the floor with his outside shot. He is also a cool customer at the free throw line. The brothers will play together at the University of Central Florida.
Orlando Dr. Phillips
Inside: 6’10 SR Ernest Udeh Outside: 6’3 SR Denzel Aberdeen
These two have played together for a while now, both at Dr. Phillips and with Southeast Elite on the travel team circuit. Their chemistry is very evident. Udeh is an athletic big that is a big time finisher at the basket, rather coming off a ball-screen, offensive rebounds, or running the floor in transition. Aberdeen scores from all three levels and gets to the free throw line a bunch.
Orlando Christian Prep
Inside: 6’9 JR Jayden Hastings Outside: 6’4 SR A.J. Brown
Basking in the glory of a 47-game winning streak, this tandem will key to extending that run. Hastings is regarded as a top fifty player in the national 2023 class. A very good athlete for his size, he moves swiftly on the floor, protects the rim, and communicates well on the defensive end. Brown, an Ohio University signee, is a fierce and dynamic scorer. He isn’t afraid to take the big shot, is an alert defender, and causes defenses fits with his variety of scoring tools.
Fort Lauderdale Westminster Academy
Inside: 6’8 JR Jaylen Carey Outside: 6’5 SR Aiden Able
If these two get the defense in a two-man game on one side of the court, go ahead and put points on the board. Carey is a strong, big-bodied warrior inside with soft hands and good footwork. He will score with either hand around the rim, grab offensive rebounds, and set bone-crunching ball screens. Carey demands double-coverage inside. When the second defender comes, it better not be off of Able. He’s a knock-down shooter with deep range. Able may see time at the point, but he is much better when able to focusing on scoring.
Miami Riviera Prep
Inside: 6’8 JR Osmar Garcia Araujo Outside: 6’0 SR Esteban Llubres
These two players will be the catalyst for a deep playoff run. Garcia Araujo is versatile and can play inside and out, but his strength inside, passing ability, and variety of post moves make him most effective on the block. Llubres will run the offense, but he will keep the defense honest with his perimeter shooting skills. He often will break down the defense with the dribble and find open teammates for easy shots.
OTHERS TO WATCH
Auburndale: 6’8 JR Nehemiah Turner, 6’2 JR Kervin Knaggs
Orlando Central Florida Christian Academy: 6’8 SR Clarence Pierre, 6’6 SO Cam Simpson
Miami Columbus: 6’8 FR Cameron Boozer, 6’2 FR Benny Fragela
Osceola Kissimmee: 6’6 JR Jimarion McKrimmon, 6’0 SR Chris Combs/6’1 JR Sean Combs
Ocala Trinity Catholic: 6’6 SR Elijah Russell, 6’1 SR L.J. Pugh
Miami Senior: 6’8 SR Jesus Rivias, 6’0 SR Brandon Garcia
Riviera Beach Suncoast: 6’7 SO Ian Smikle, 6’6 JR Nate Sasser/5’11 SO Stone Bureau
Windermere: 6’8 JR Sean Stewart, 6’2 JR Jalen Debose
Tallahassee Maclay: 6’8 SR Jaquay Randolph, 6’6 JR Blaise Wallace
Miami Country Day: 6’7 JR Cole McCabe, 6’6 JR Jasai Miles