MP Hoops Scouting & Analysis

Michigan high school boys basketball teams are starting to take shape as summer camps roll through June.

Hope College has a number of intriguing teams taking the court over the weekend, with varsity through freshman teams getting some early exposure.

Due to the soccer/baseball/softball finals taking place the same weekend, we were only able to attend one day, but there was plenty of intrigue.

Here are five players who helped their recruiting stock Wednesday at Hope:

Michael Lindquist, 5-10, Jr. Greenville – Lindquist played with a lot of poise in a convincing win over Whitehall, who was without Western Michigan commit Camden Thompson Fall. Lindquist had a firm command of the offense and had little trouble creating his own shots. Lindquist was aggressive without being selfish and looked up for any challenge thrown his way. He could be in for a big junior year.

Kal Koehler, 6-3, Sr. Whitehall – Despite looking a bit shorter than advertised, Koehler was extremely impressive Wednesday, especially in the second half. He showcased the ability to shoot from 3-point range, but really excelled when driving to the basket, taking on defenders and finishing with poise. He could see a big increase in scoring this season if he carries that aggressiveness into the regular season.

Carter Mekkes, 6-5, Sr. Coopersville – Arguably the most impressive athlete to take the court on Day 1. Mekkes displayed his impressive wingspan by getting to the basket with ease and making some acrobatic plays around the rim. He will need to get better at finishing drives with buckets, but he showed flashes of brilliance. All the D3/NAIA/JUCO teams in the area should pay close attention to his development this season.

Braden Latimer, 6-3, Jr. Greenville – Latimer wanted the ball. That’s always a good sign from a prospect. He has 3-point upside and nice body control around the basket. His foot speed needs work to truly reach his full potential. Latimer and Lindquist should make a great duo for the next two years. Latimer probably has a little more upside because of his height and versatility, but they were both very impressive.

Brooks Hadden, 6-0, Jr. Coopersville – He impressed off the bench in last season’s district semifinal win against Rockford. Hadden struggled in the first half Wednesday but found his footing after the break. He has great size for a point guard. He’s also quick and strong. Hadden showed nice touch around the basket, played with his head up and showed signs of a developing shot. He will certainly be a prospect to watch the next two years.