REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio -- The Newark Wildcats took care of Reynoldsburg with relative ease in Friday night's 45-30 win and did so with strong defense and quality play from the guard position.

While Reynoldsburg struggled to shoot the ball, some of the Raiders underclassmen talent gave a glimpse of some intriguing potential.

Below, we highlight the top performers from the game for our Prospect Scouting Report.

Ethan Stare (6'1 Guard / Newark / 2024) The MVP of the evening, the junior guard finished with a game high 13 points and did so on a collection of impressive moves. Stare is a sound ball-handler and was able to drive and finish with both his left and right hand. While he did not force many outside attempts, Stare showed a nice touch on a turnaround midrange jumper. Listed at 6'1 and 175 lbs., Stare has a nice build and isn't hesitant to get physical, as he led the Wildcats with five rebounds and also added two assists. Newark is a factory for producing disciplined and tough guards that can shoot the ball and it appears Stare fits the bill. 

Grant Burkholder (5'9 Guard / Newark / 2023) Burkholder is the quintessential senior floor general that nearly any high school coach would want to have. Even at just 5'9, the Newark guard gets himself involved in nearly every play on both ends, whether it's leading the offense (as he did with a game high three assists) or drawing a charge on the defensive end. While not necessarily an exceptional athlete, Burkholder makes up for it with his creativity. Often times, you'll see Burkholder use an array of pump-fakes and a good use his off arm to get past or create separation from his defender. He connected on an early three-point attempt and has shown in the past an ability to be a lethal shooter. The combination of Burkholder's IQ, discipline and ability to shoot should allow Division III programs to overlook his size and instead recognize his impact on winning games.

Toby Nwokolo (6'5 Wing Forward / Reynoldsburg / 2025) Although it was not a banner night for the Raiders, I couldn't help but enjoy watching sophomore Toby Nwokolo. While the stat book may not have reflected any gaudy figures, the wing forward had several standout plays, most notably a stolen pass and slam-dunk finish in transition. Nwokolo put forth an admirable effort on the glass and also showed an ability to create offense with his two assists. At 6'5, Nwokolo moves really well for his size, but looks like he's still growing into his body some and should only become more developed as his young career progresses. Put Nwokolo on your radar and don't be surprised if he starts to blossom into a sought-after prospect by this time next year. 

An honorable mention for Newark sophomore Braylon Morris. The 5'11 shooting guard looked very sharp from behind the arc, as he connected on three triples and also collected four rebounds. If Morris' hot shooting is a sign of things to come, the Wildcats will have three guards that are a threat from deep. 

I can't wait to see Reynoldsburg freshman Jorden Bowens continue to gain experience. Listed at 6'6, Bowens simply has the look of a promising athlete.  Still in just his first month of high school ball, his numbers were modest; two points, two steals, two rebounds and an assist, but Bowens has the build and athleticism that gives the impression that he will begin to make a significant impact sooner than later.