Half-Season Review: Maruan Cicic (6’11” C/PF), Class of 2025
From Coach Nemanja Maric
We are thrilled to spotlight Maruan Cicic, a remarkable talent and a cornerstone of our basketball program at Hoosac Academy. Here’s a mid-season breakdown of this promising athlete:
Dominant Presence
Maruan Cicic is arguably the most dominant big man in @isa.hoosac’s history. This statement carries weight, considering the legacy of standout players such as the Ilic twins (Loyola Maryland), and others who excelled at Marshall University and LaSalle.
Pure 7-Footer with Elite Athleticism
Maruan’s size, impressive wingspan, and ability to play above the rim make him a High Major prospect. He’s not just tall; his athleticism and agility elevate his game to an elite level.
Offensive Skill Set
- Dominates the post with both hands, favoring a smooth left-handed hook shot.
- Creates space efficiently under the basket, presenting a large target for post-entry passes.
- Demonstrates exceptional unselfishness, setting up teammates with smart passes to cutters and shooters.
Relentless Worker
- Runs the floor with stamina and speed that are rare for his size.
- Fights for position under the rim, combining power and technique to outmaneuver opponents.
Team Player with Great Character
Maruan is more than just a skilled athlete; he’s a gentle giant with a humble demeanor. Loved by his teammates and staff, his dedication to team success and positive attitude make him a joy to coach.
Areas for Growth
- Needs to become a more aggressive shot-blocker, leveraging his size and wingspan more effectively.
- Would benefit from the structure and intensity of an NCAA program to fully unlock his physicality and consistency.
The Verdict
Maruan Cicic is a High Major talent who is poised to make an immediate impact at the next level. With the right coaching and development, his potential is limitless. This amazing young man is destined to be a future standout.
Oregon State Lands Commitment from Finnish Forward Olavi Suutela for 2025
Oregon State has made its first big move in the 2025 recruiting class by securing a commitment from 6-foot-10 forward Olavi Suutela from Helsinki, Finland. This follows a successful international recruiting strategy under head coach Wayne Tinkle, whose recent rosters have been increasingly composed of foreign-born players.
Suutela is an intriguing prospect due to his versatility as a forward. Despite his size, he possesses a strong perimeter game, showing solid ball-handling skills and a face-up approach. His ability to get to the paint off the dribble and score using post moves demonstrates a combination of finesse and physicality. His skill set makes him a threat both inside and outside, with notable fluidity and mobility for a player of his height.
In the FIBA U18 tournament, Suutela’s talent was on display as he contributed 55 points, 59 rebounds, 13 assists, and 7 blocks over seven games, making him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor. While his interior game is impressive, there’s room for improvement in his shooting—particularly from the free-throw line and beyond the arc. However, his overall game shows great promise, especially in his ability to score inside and potentially develop into a rim protector.
Suutela’s commitment aligns with Oregon State’s ongoing trend of recruiting players from European countries with international basketball experience. This strategic approach continues to shape the team’s roster, and Suutela’s addition is expected to strengthen the Beavers’ future as they build on this momentum.
Source: Oregon State Lands Commitment from 2025 Finnish Forward Olavi Suutela