Sleeper Watch: Dion Ford (MN 2019)

Dion Ford- 6'4 2019 W, St. Paul Central, 44 Elite

In a once again loaded class in Minnesota, Dion Ford is one of the many talented players that often goes under-looked with all of the (well deserved) publicity surrounding the likes of Matthew Hurt, Zeke Nnaji, and others. In my first season observing Minnesota basketball last year, Dion impressed me in his season opener against eventual state champs Cretin-Derham Hall. He put up 23 points against four division one caliber players to keep St. Paul Central within striking distance for most of the game. That first impression of Dion has stuck with me to this day, as he remains one of my highest regarded wing prospects in the state.

Dion is a player who has an uncanny ability to find an opening in the defense, and will expose it to get to the rim. He is one of the best in the state at driving to the hoop, and finishes with ease with his left hand. A lot of Dion's points come off of pure hustle, as he always sprints up and down the floor, creating a lot of fast break opportunities. Dion was one of the top scoring threats in St. Paul, and is one of the favorites to win the City Conference's player of the year award as a senior. 

Dion put up 8 games with 20 or more points while averaging 19 ppg as a junior, which was a true testament to his offensive ability. However, Dion is more than just a scoring threat. His long arms and quickness for his height combine to make a good defensive player as well. Multiple times I have seen Dion meet opposing players at the rim and swat their shots. His length also makes him a solid rebounding guard, often grabbing a defensive rebound and immediately turning to run the fast break.

Every year, Minnesota seems to have a handful of prospects that blow up as seniors and get division one offers. With continued work in the offseason, Dion could very well be one of this year's stock risers. He looks the part of a scholarship level player, and could open up a lot of eyes in the winter.

Dion currently has interest from Northern Iowa, Winona State, St. Cloud State, and Concordia St. Paul.

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