After watching this group closely throughout the travel ball season, it’s easy to recognize the strides that River City Reign has made—both individually and as a group. The played up all spring and summer despite only having one actual senior on the roster. This clearly helped their overall progression in the long run, as they’ve quietly hit their stride over the last month or so. Let’s take a closer look at their core pieces…
It’s no secret that Donovan Stinney brings so much to the table, especially as a two-way interior anchor. He typically operates in the paint, where he’s able to control the glass, apply pressure as a finisher, and block or alter shots at a strong rate. However, Stinney is comfortable spacing the floor, hitting trail three-pointers, and attacking bigger opponents effectively off the bounce. He can score out of the post or knock down jumpers at a respectable rate. Stinney also moves extremely well for his size and displays quality instincts on both ends of the floor. In addition to everything stated above, he consistently set the tone through his undeniable production for this group. Stinney is a clear next-level piece.
However, guys like Isaiah Jones, Jamell Smith, and Will Zaudtke each bring their own dynamic to this group. Jones has really blossomed as an all-around scorer while making strides as a creator and playmaker for others. He effortlessly fills it up from all levels, showing the ability to create for himself or find opportunities as a cutter or spot-up threat. Jones competes well defensively and shows a willingness to make hustle plays whenever possible, but it’s difficult to ignore his incredibly efficient scoring prowess. He’s also made clear strides as an overall playmaker. Meanwhile, Smith is a tough, heady guard with the quickness and scrappiness to cause problems for opponents on both ends of the floor. He breaks down defenders well to touch the paint and make proper reads with the ball in his hands. Smith finishes well for his size and possesses a useful array of runners/floaters, but doesn’t need to score to impact a game. He’s a scrappy defender with a high motor and pesky on-ball presence. Rounding out this group, Zaudtke is an intriguing prospect whose best basketball is likely still ahead. He’s a long, wiry wing with excellent shooting ability and positional size. Zaudtke knows how to move without the ball, position himself for success, and attack closeouts as needed. That being said, he’s at his best when getting to his spots and capitalizing on late contests or missed rotations. Zaudtke can get hot quickly and fill it up, but doesn’t force the action. He utilizes his length and motor well to be involved in the action defensively.