For the sixth season in a row, Bounce and Outside the Huddle are counting down who they feel are the top 50 individual players in northeast Indiana heading into the 2024-2025 season.
Want to know how we come up with our rankings? Click here.
Today, we continue the countdown on the boys hoops side with positions No. 25-21.
No. 25 – Khalyn Williams-Thomas, Wayne
Williams-Thomas is a standout athlete who brings an electrifying presence to the court, widely considered one of the top pure athletes in the area this season. Last year, he averaged 8.3 points and 3.1 rebounds per game, but his impact goes well beyond the stats. With his explosive vertical ability, he plays above the rim and adds a dynamic edge to his team’s offense and defense. Williams-Thomas has a knack for disrupting passing lanes, using his agility and speed to create turnovers and fast-break opportunities.
COACH’S QUOTE WILLIAMS-THOMAS
“Khalyn Williams-Thomas is one of the most exciting players in our area. When he is locked in, he can impact a game in a multitude of ways. His high motor and athleticism create opportunities for him and our team.” – Wayne coach Anthony Brewer
No. 24 – Demarcus Barr, South Side
Barr returns this season as the Archers’ primary offensive weapon, building on a strong campaign last year where he averaged 13.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. Known for his scoring ability, Barr’s impact goes beyond just putting up points—his leadership on the floor will be crucial to the team’s success. As the focal point of the offense, he has the responsibility of setting the tone, guiding his teammates, and stepping up in high-stakes moments. With his scoring prowess and experience, Barr is poised to help propel the Archers to better heights this season.
COACH’S QUOTE BARR
“Demarcus is a senior so in addition to his scoring we will be looking for leadership and more of a focus on the defensive end to accompany his offensive talents.” – South Side coach JJ Foster
No. 23 – Qualyn Clopton, Snider
Clopton is a steady, even-keeled guard who brings invaluable senior leadership to Snider this season. With an average of 10 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game last year, Clopton has shown he can make a significant impact on both ends of the court. His ability to fly around but also have calm, composed presence and strong playmaking abilities will be crucial as Snider works to re-establish itself as a contender in the SAC. Clopton’s experience and reliability make him a central figure in the team’s success.
COACH’S QUOTE CLOPTON
“Qualyn Clopton is a proven veteran around the area. Coming off an all-conference season, Qualyn has continued to improve this off season. He has focused his game around being a playmaker and not just a scorer for our team. Qualyn is a great leader in the locker room and we will look to him to lead us all season to reach our goals as a team.” – Snider coach Josh Riikonen
No. 22 – Stratton Fuller, Columbia City
Fuller is a remarkable athlete who stands alongside the previously mentioned Williams-Thomas as one of the area’s top pure talents, bringing intensity and physicality from his standout football season straight onto the basketball court. Averaging 9.3 points and 3.3 rebounds last year, Fuller brings a fierce, scrappy energy that ignites his entire team. His relentless hustle and determination make him a disruptive force on defense and a constant threat in transition. Fuller’s athleticism, coupled with his competitive spirit, sets a high-energy tone that drives his teammates and makes him an invaluable asset on both ends of the court.
COACH’S QUOTE FULLER
“I’m not sure there is anything I can say about Stratton that people don’t already know. He is one of the greatest competitors that I have had the privilege to coach. He has the ability to score 30 on any given night, or do all the little things on both ends of the court that not many would notice. He is going to do whatever it takes as long as we come away with a win.” – Columbia City coach Matt Schauss
No. 21 – Wyatt Weaver, Homestead
Weaver enters his senior season as Homestead’s top returning scorer, after averaging 9.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.7 assists last year. He should be recognized for his ability to answer the call when expectations are high; he has consistently delivered solidly for Sparty. Weaver brings a well-rounded offensive game, offering a strong inside presence while also being capable from the outside, providing a versatile scoring threat for his team that makes things easier on both he and teammates.
COACH’S QUOTE WEAVER
“Leading scorer back from last year’s team who has really worked on his shooting to be able to stretch the defense.” – Homestead coach Chris Johnson
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