Class Of 2013 Stock Raiser: Nathan Taphorn

By Roy and Harv Schmidt

May 9, 2011

10:45 A.M. CST

While the Illinois Wolves 16-Under traveling team features a number of top prospects from the 2013 class who are already household names, there are also more than a few players on the squad who until now have flown under the radar.  One is undoubtedly 6'6 wing Nathan Taphorn from Pekin High School in Pekin, IL.

Taphorn has turned in solid performances with the Wolves throughout the spring and was absolutely outstanding this past weekend at the Bill Hensley Memorial Run 'n Slam All-Star Classic in Ft. Wayne, IN.  His breakout performance may have come in a pool play contest versus the talented Eric Gordon All-Stars.  In that game, Taphorn finished with 28 points and was on fire from 3-point land.

There is no question that Taphorn has ideal size and shooting range when it comes to projecting as a D1 2-guard.  He is a terrific spotup shooter, utilizes screens well and has a sweet looking stroke as well as a quick release.  While we would like to see Taphorn continue to work on his ball skills, he does possess considerable toughness.   In addition to his shooting prowess beyond the arc, Taphorn has shown the ability to battle around the basket and score in the paint area.

On the recruiting front, it is no surprise that Taphorn has already received a barrage of recruiting attention from several mid-majors.  However, there are a few high majors who have also begun to show interest, including Illinois, Northwestern and Michigan.

Another thing that Taphorn definitely has going for him is bloodlines.  His father played college basketball under Dick Bennett at Wisconsin-Green Bay, while his uncle played at Illinois State University.  The way he has been played this spring, we look for Taphorn's stock to continue rising.

***************************************************************************************************

We welcome comments regarding this story or any other entry published by Illinois Prep Bulls-eye.  They can be made by e-mailing us at royandharv@ilprepbullseye.com.  

Continue to check in with Illinois Prep Bulls-eye for all of the latest as it pertains to recruiting and high school basketball in Illinois.