After nearly six months of summer basketball, the travel season has ended and the yearly shift towards high school hoops has finally begun. Although there is still a lot of basketball going on between camps, fall leagues, and other preseason jamborees, this is typically the quietest time of the year for the grassroots community. Which, in turn, means there’s no better time to highlight individuals who have the tools and ability to be breakout players over the next eight months. While this notion could certainly apply to a variety of prospects, the emphasis is primarily on younger guys with an increased role, new school situation, or those who simply take the next step in their progression. After showcasing a ton of enticing flashes during the summer, Isaiah Tsolenyanu (Cleveland) clearly has the tools to be a player worth noting. Let’s take a closer look…
Already standing at 6-foot-7 with quality length, mobility, and natural two-way instincts, the intrigue is obvious. Tsolenyanu is a nice athlete, particularly for his size and age, who moves very well for a young, developing big man. Right now, he’s able to impact the game in several ways as a low-maintenance option. Tsolenyanu finds consistent success through his motor and general activity on both ends of the floor. He patrols the paint well to secure rebounds, block shots, and make hustle plays. Tsolenyanu knows how to properly fill the lane in transition and make himself available for drop-offs around the basket. He utilizes his length well to finish, but will only become more physically imposing as he adds weight.
Although his ability to impact the game without touches is certainly appealing, folks should expect Tsolenyanu to be a key contributor to this Cleveland squad. He should emerge as a very nice complement next to their star in Tjay Brunson, as he’s able to do the dirty work and little things on a regular basis. Tsolenyanu finds opportunities within the flow of the action, but should only become more comfortable and assertive as he gains reps. It’s still early in his progression, but it’s difficult to ignore the overall appeal of a prospect like Tsolenyanu. Should he continue to improve, he has the tools to be among the top players in the state.