Prospect: Kanon Catchings
Classification: FR
Height: 6’9
Weight: 190
Position: Forward
Stats: https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/kanon-catchings-1.html
Film:
Kanon Catchings: BYU’s Rising Star with a Bright Future
Kanon Catchings may not be a household name just yet, but that’s about to change. The 6-foot-9 freshman forward at Brigham Young University (BYU) is quickly making waves in college basketball. With his size, athleticism, and versatile skill set, Catchings has all the tools to develop into a dominant force in the West Coast Conference and beyond.
Offensive Skill Set: A Versatile Scoring Threat
At 6-9, Catchings has the size and strength to be a force inside. He possesses strong footwork and body control, allowing him to maneuver around defenders and finish efficiently at the rim. His variety of post moves—including hook shots, up-and-unders, and fadeaways—make him a reliable scorer in the paint.
Expanding His Range
What truly sets Catchings apart from traditional big men is his shooting ability. He has a smooth mid-range jumper and can step out beyond the three-point line, making him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. His ability to stretch the floor allows BYU to space out its offense, creating more driving lanes for teammates.
Playmaking Ability
Catchings isn’t just a scorer—he’s also a skilled passer for his position. With solid court vision, he can make smart reads and find open teammates, adding another layer to his offensive game. His ability to facilitate from the post or the perimeter makes him a well-rounded offensive weapon.
Defensive Impact: A Promising Rim Protector
On the defensive end, Catchings uses his length and instincts to disrupt opponents. His timing on shot blocks makes him an effective rim protector, deterring players from attacking the basket. Additionally, his quick hands and anticipation allow him to jump passing lanes, generating steals and fast-break opportunities for BYU.
While he has shown flashes of being a high-impact defender, he will need to improve his physical strength to handle stronger, more experienced players in the post.
Areas for Improvement
Despite his immense potential, Catchings has areas where he can continue to grow:
Physical Strength: While his height gives him an advantage, adding muscle will help him hold his ground against stronger post players and absorb contact more effectively.
Consistency: Like many freshmen, Catchings has flashes of brilliance but also games where he struggles to find his rhythm. Developing greater consistency will be key to maximizing his potential.
Future Outlook: A Star in the Making
With his combination of size, athleticism, and skill, Kanon Catchings has all the makings of a future star. As he continues to refine his game and gain experience at the collegiate level, he has the potential to become a dominant force in the West Coast Conference and a highly sought-after prospect at the professional level.
For BYU, securing Catchings was a major recruiting win, and as he develops, he could play a pivotal role in the program’s success for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Kanon Catchings is a name to watch. His blend of size, versatility, and two-way potential makes him one of the most exciting young prospects in college basketball. If he continues on this trajectory, it won’t be long before he becomes a standout player at the next level.
Physical Attributes:
- Frame & Length: At 6’9” with a long wingspan, Catchings possesses the prototypical size for a modern forward, allowing him to impact both ends of the floor.
- Athleticism: Smooth and fluid for his size, with strong leaping ability (35.5-inch vertical) that makes him a threat in transition and as a finisher.
- Mobility: Moves well laterally, allowing him to guard multiple positions and be a versatile defender.
Offensive Skills:
- Scoring Versatility: A three-level scorer who can finish at the rim, hit mid-range pull-ups, and stretch the floor with his shooting.
- Shooting: Shows promise as a shooter, capable from beyond the arc and mid-range, though consistency needs improvement.
- Ball Handling: Can create his own shot off the dribble but is still refining his handle, especially under pressure.
- Finishing: Uses his length to score over defenders and can play above the rim, making him an effective cutter and transition threat.
Defensive Skills:
- Switchability: His size and agility allow him to guard multiple positions, making him a valuable asset in defensive schemes.
- Shot-Blocking: Displays solid weak-side shot-blocking instincts, utilizing his length to alter shots.
- Defensive Awareness: Can be inconsistent with positioning and defensive rotations, an area for continued development.
Strengths:
Length & Athleticism: Ideal physical tools for a versatile forward.
Scoring Potential: Can operate as a shooter, cutter, and transition scorer.
Defensive Upside: Switchable defender with shot-blocking instincts.
Areas for Improvement:
Consistency: Needs to refine his shooting efficiency and decision-making.
Ball Handling: Improving his ability to create off the dribble will elevate his offensive game.
Defensive Discipline: Must stay engaged on rotations and avoid lapses in focus.
