High school hoop stars turning heads with offseason play

This time of year, many Utah teens receive their first exposure when they head out on the AAU basketball circuit, where college recruiters are allowed to gather, gawk and generally codify their talent.

Some, like Provo High's 6-foot-6 guard Kyle Collinsworth, have seen their stock rise significantly since last April's Easter tournament in Las Vegas.

Collinsworth, an already known commodity by BYU and Utah and other MWC schools, turned a lot of heads in Las Vegas with his athleticism, which included half a dozen dunks in one game against stud competition.

Since that time, Kansas, Virginia and Oklahoma State have joined Stanford and most Pac-10 schools in seriously looking him over.

Collinsworth, the younger brother of BYU's 6-10 Chris Collinsworth — currently serving a mission in Australia — simply fills up a stats sheet and did so impressively for the Utah Pump and Run 17-and-Under team this spring.

"He may not score a ton, but he posts all the numbers across the board, and he makes his teammates better," said one recruiter, who asked his name not be used.

Typically Collinsworth can score a dozen points, but also get 10 rebounds, 8 steals and 9 assists. At 6-6, he handles the ball so well he can play the point.

His quickness off the dribble, a first-step move that reminds many of Andre Miller, gets him past defenders on the glide. And once he has them on his hip, he smartly finishes or gets off shots. He can get to the rim and smartly sets up teammates.

I spoke to some experts involved in recruiting and evaluating Utah talent and asked for a breakdown of up-and-coming players, some who are already known and a few that will become known in coming months.

In July, college recruiters can personally evaluate prospects at two major youth tournaments — in Las Vegas July 22-26 (Super Adidas 64) and the Best of the Summer Tournament July 27-31 in Los Angeles.

Other locals to watch:

Grade 11

Neal Monson, 6-10, Waterford: Big strong 5-man being recruited by all the Ivy league schools; USU, BYU, Utah and Stanford have also shown interest. Stock rising as he has gotten out and played with his travel team. Many MWC teams waiting to see him compete against taller competition instead of 6-2 post players. Father is Reed Monson, who played at Utah and coaches at Waterford. Good shooter, runs the floor well for a big guy. First exposure to national recruiters came in April at Las Vegas. Great academics.

Ben Clifford, 6-8, Bingham: A power forward that committed to Utah State last fall. Great motion for big man. Quick around the basket and has an effective range of 17-feet in. Great fit for the Aggies and has been in USU's camp for some time.