2010 Breakout Player: Donnie Hale

Donnie Hale is a 6'8 combo forward out of New Albany high in Indiana. Hale's ever growing skill set and expanded game helped him to average 18 points per game last season. Hale recently switched AAU teams and told us that he is very excited about playing facing the basket more. As opposed to always squatting in the post.

It is evident that Hale has been working hard both in the gym and the weight room. This kid has really improved since we last watched him play about a year ago. Hale has added range to his jump shot and he looks more nimble and quick while on the court. I was also intrigued by Hale's new found ability to put the ball on the floor, if he can continue to expand this part of his game then he will truly be a threat at all times at the high major D1 level. I was very impressed by the noticeable leaps that this kids game has taken across the board. Hale, in our opinion has progressed to the point where he is among the top 75 players, in the entire class of 2010.

Hale is basically down to his final two college choices in Xavier and Purdue. Now, with Purdue there are some questions as to how many scholarships will be available in the 2010 class. Coach Painter has done a great job of landing in state talent at Purdue, however all indicators at this point suggest that Hale's most likely destination will be Xavier. With Xavier, first year head coach Chris Mack, (who returned to Xavier in 2004 after serving as two-time team captain) laid the groundwork with Hale and has to be excited about the potential of adding the underrated Hale to his teams roster. At this point all indicators point to Xavier is his leader.