Post by blackandgold on Dec 29, 2012 17:57:05 GMT -5
Yante Maten - 6'8", 210 pound junior for Bloomfield Hills Lahser.
I can't find any lists of teams looking into Yante Maten, but I read somewhere recently that Ray McCallum was at one of his games. I hope Oakland is looking at him after reading some about him. He's obviously already had a much better prep career so far and seems headed for more success, but reading about his game and body type reminds me of a young Kito. If this guy has a growth spurt like Kito, watch out!
He was ranked as the third best player in Oakland County by an Oakland Press high school writer who called him "arguably the best inside force not only in Oakland County, but possibly in the state."
ESPN recently made a profile for him:
I can't find any lists of teams looking into Yante Maten, but I read somewhere recently that Ray McCallum was at one of his games. I hope Oakland is looking at him after reading some about him. He's obviously already had a much better prep career so far and seems headed for more success, but reading about his game and body type reminds me of a young Kito. If this guy has a growth spurt like Kito, watch out!
He was ranked as the third best player in Oakland County by an Oakland Press high school writer who called him "arguably the best inside force not only in Oakland County, but possibly in the state."
ESPN recently made a profile for him:
Strengths:insider.espn.go.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/player/evaluation/_/id/171274/yante-maten
Seems to be the kind of inside player who has few illusions about the strength of his game. Will catch, seal and put someone in the cylinder. Uses his strength to his advantage and seems to operate well using the angles. Like the variety of offensive skills he possesses. Talks to teammates and is open to coaching. Verbal big man which is rare, especially in younger bigs.
Weaknesses:
Narrow through the shoulders so his body has a ceiling. The good part is he's not afraid to use it and is only moderately strong. Need to see him develop his post up game and demonstrate the ability to play out of double-teams and pass.
Bottom Line:
This is a kid who halfway through his high school career is pinging the radar of mid-major programs and should be evaluated by the bigger schools, especially the ones who are diligent about tracking growth of players. Looks you in the eye, responds well to coaching and has a good attitude towards getting better.