AJ Morgan’s elite athleticism figures to pay huge dividends for Vernon Hills down the street.
But the 6-foot-4 sophomore wing is embracing his secondary position to supply the Cougars with a lift early within the season.
“I feel like every game I play is a learning experience,” Morgan mentioned. “It could be playing good defense and rebounding, and if I don’t have the ball in my hands, it’s setting screens to help get someone open.”
Being a varsity newcomer is a giant step for many gamers, however that hasn’t eroded any of Morgan’s perception in himself. The son of former Chicago Bears huge receiver Anthony Morgan is also self-aware sufficient that he’s not tempted to hurry issues. Instead, he focuses on making incremental progress for the Cougars (3-4).
“He’s like a sponge in practice, really coachable,” Vernon Hills coach Matt McCarty mentioned. “The physical skills he has are a great foundation, and you have a feeling there will be a breakout game in him at some point.”
In the closest factor to such a efficiency to date, AJ Morgan had 10 factors and 6 rebounds within the Cougars’ 60-39 win in opposition to Northridge on Nov. 22. In that sport and others since, Morgan flashed a number of the athletic expertise that make his future brilliant and show enviable versatility.
At least a part of that athleticism comes from his father. Anthony Morgan performed within the NFL for six seasons, beginning his profession with the Bears in 1991.
“I feel I can use my height to shoot over people, I can go down low and I can stretch my shot into the midrange,” AJ Morgan mentioned. “I feel like the work I’m putting in will show at some point.”
Playmaking Powers: Once hesitant, Lake Zurich’s Brendan Powers has change into far more confident in his third varsity season.
The Bears (4-2) are reaping the advantages.
“From then until now, I’ve grown a lot,” Powers mentioned. “I appreciate how everyone has pushed me and had confidence in me. Now I know my teammates can count on me to make a play.”
The Bears’ 50-45 win in opposition to Prospect on Nov. 29 completely illustrated that. After Lake Zurich had squandered a 10-point benefit early within the fourth quarter, Powers made a steal and a layup to regain the lead for good.
“That was an aggressive, smart play that a year ago he maybe doesn’t make,” Lake Zurich coach Terry Coughlin mentioned. “He’s levelheaded and always has a ‘we’ll get the next one’ mentality.”
Powers, a 6-5 senior ahead, chips in on many fronts. He averages a team-high 16.0 factors and 5.0 rebounds, and his shot comfortably extends into 3-point territory. His midrange sport has additionally gained traction.
On protection, Powers’ lengthy arms make him a menace for opposing groups. He spearheads the Bears’ 1-2-2 full-court press, scanning for errant passes or monitoring opponents to probably assist entice.
“I keep my hands up, and when they pass it to the wing, I drop down and see where they’ll throw it from there,” he mentioned. “With my height, it makes it a little easier.”
Cooper-duper: There’s usually some extent in a sport when a crew wants a response. Cooper LoPriore has change into a participant who can present that for Lakes (4-4).
“He bided his time last year, not playing much, but he’s really emerged this year,” Lakes coach Chris Snyder mentioned. “He shows a lot of effort and is a great example for our young guys.”
LoPriore also can play. Although his position because the Eagles’ sixth man delays his preliminary entry in any sport, he’s virtually all the time in the midst of the motion come crunchtime.
The 5-10 senior guard is powerful sufficient to physique different guards, which helps late in video games. On offense, he’s not a quantity scorer however makes a distinction as a rule.
For occasion, LoPriore hit a 3-pointer originally of the fourth quarter in a 48-41 win in opposition to Vernon Hills on Nov. 29, setting the tone because the Eagles closed out the sport.
“I might not score a lot, but I take pride in hitting baskets when it matters,” he mentioned.
LoPriore missed important time with a thumb damage final season. But he stay engaged.
“It really helped growing with these guys even though I was hurt,” he mentioned. “You always need to find a positive in everything.”
Steve Reaven is a contract reporter for the News-Sun.
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Source: www.bostonherald.com