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While the current group of Kentucky Wildcats seem to be hitting their stride, one of the signees in the 2021 class continues to impress. That is Nolan Hickman.
Hickman and the Wasatch Academy basketball team competed in the St. James NIBC Invitational this weekend in Springfield (VA), facing off against Oak Hill Academy (VA), La Lumiere (IN), and the Bishop Walsh School (MD). Going against some of the top talent in the country, Hickman continued to show he belongs in the conversation as one of the top guards in the country.
Against Oak Hill, Hickman put up 19 points, six rebounds and three assists. He then put 21 points and eight rebounds against Bishop Walsh. He also showed off some of his ball handling ability with this:
Nolan Hickman taking on EVERYONE #BBN @TheStJames @Nolanhickman2 pic.twitter.com/mnWQiJ5Fbo
— Who's Next (@WhosNextHS) January 10, 2021
Hickman also drew praise from 247 Sports’ Dushawn London as a standout performer at the event.
What stood out the most last night was Hickman’s slashing ability and three point shooting. Kentucky is getting a very talented guard who’s creative, versatile, and competes on both sides, making him very valuable to the team.
With a body build like we saw with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Hickman is able to get to the rim at ease and use his length to finish over his defender. He slashes to the rim effectively when he isn’t creating for himself, and by all accounts his three-point shot is looking better and better.
The versatility that Hickman brings will also be a plus to what the roster make-up next year should need. Place him along side Devin Askew, or let him handle the ball and create some open looks for Dontaie Allen, and the offense should be able to keep opposing defenses off balance.
The 6-1, 171-pound Hickman is listed as a four star prospect by all three major recruiting services. He is 32nd in the country by 247 Sports, 52nd by Rivals, and 28th by ESPN.
Check out some of his highlights below!
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