Boys and Girls Players Who Have Impressed Lately
Here are some players who have impressed us early on in the AAU season:
Boys
Joe Bramanti, Andover High School (2011) - Bramanti (pictured left) is getting playing time at the point as well as the off-guard position for the Granite State Jayhawks. He has good size and a strong frame, which is a nice commodity for a point guard. Bramanti has also impressed on the defensive end of the floor with his toughness.
Tim LaRoche, Exeter High School (2012) - The 6'1" off-guard LaRoche has really beeen working hard on his game. He still has things to work on, but you can't teach athleticism and LaRoche is one of the most athletic players in NH. He has been working to become more strong and confident with the basketball in his hands.
Skyler Mitchell, Coe Brown Northwood Academy (2012) - The 6'3" Mitchell is another player who has been working his tail off this AAU season. He has impressed with a very high basketball I.Q., which especially helps on defense. He knows where he's supposed to be on the defensive end and is constantly talking on "D" and helping out his teammates. Mitchell is a strong player and a good post presence.
Girls
Allie Hartford, Manchester Memorial High School (2013) - Hartford showed incredible court awareness, knowledge of the game and unselfishness. Considering she's only a freshman it is obvious she has a bright future. Hartford is 5'5" and is a prototypical point guard - she's an excellent passer and is strong with the ball but at the same time she has the ability to score when needed.
Allie Mahan, Dover High School (2012) - Toughness is the first word that comes to mind with this player. Mahan is not afraid of contact, she's not afraid to be physical on the court, she's not afraid to drive the lane against bigger players, and she's not afraid to step in and take a charge. She's fearless. And at 5'6" she is another player with the size and skill set to play the point guard position.
Brooke Stewart, Masconomet High School (2012) - Stewart has an excellent combination of size, strength, athleticism and skill that is rare to see in a senior let alone a player who is only a sophomore. The lefty is a 5'10" two-guard who can shoot, drive and defend the basketball very well.
