10 players worth watching in D-III
Division III boys basketball featured one of the wildest playoff competitions in any Interscholastic League sport in 2022-23.
None of the top four seeds reached the championship game at Rhode Island College. No. 5 North Providence pulled away from No. 10 Juanita Sanchez in the second half to clinch the crown.
The Cougars made the most of a drop from Division II, rebuilding their program quickly. The Cavaliers took out Central Falls, Moses Brown and West Warwick along the way — the talent on their roster gradually became clear.
North Smithfield and the Wizards both accumulated enough power points to reach the state tournament. West Warwick fell at Shea in a preliminary matchup while the Northmen pushed Barrington to the limit in the Round of 16.
Who could emerge as a threat in 2023-24? The following list of 10 players offers a bit of a guide as the regular season enters its second full week. Part of the fun over the next couple of months will be watching this group perform and newcomers emerge into more prominent roles with their respective programs.
Juan Bedoya, Blackstone Valley Prep
Senior, Forward
Bedoya was one of the premier players in his league last season. He was named to the Division III first team thanks to a 6-foot-6 frame, constant activity on the glass and an ability to finish around the rim.
Donovan Clement, Moses Brown
Sophomore, Forward
Clement is just scratching the surface of what could be considerable potential. He’s a rangy 6-foot-5 wing who can knock down 3-pointers and was named to the Division III-D first team in his debut season.
Jamilson DePina, Central Falls
Junior, Center
DePina also stars on the volleyball court with the Warriors. His size at 6foot-4 and natural leaping ability make life tough on opposing frontcourts. DePina was named to the Division III-D first team last season.
Tyson Green, North Smithfield
Senior, Guard
Every great team needs a leader — in
Kyle Prete does the dirty work for North Providence.
basketball, it’s preferably your point guard. That’s what the Northmen have in Green, a veteran presence and returning selection from the Division III first team.