2023 Lamont’e Cousar (Watch Us Work): Cousar continues to elevate his game and rise up the rankings in my mind with his play. We are talking about a 6’6, sturdy body that can operate on so many levels. Whether it is being physical down low in the paint, step out and showcase his confidence with his perimeter game, or put the ball on the deck and get to the bucket, Cousar fills it up and has been incredibly consistent this summer.
2023 Takorrie Faison (NLPB): Faison was strong all throughout the day. His game 1 was impressive, showing his improving game while continuing to be a force with athleticism. Faison’s overall offensive game continues to grow and expand but also is an impact on both sides of the ball. It is great to see him back in action and just a reminder that he is a player in the Class of 2023 to really watch.
2024 Will Hurd (NLPB TN): What can one say… Hurd absolutely went off late on Game 1 and looked unstoppable, putting up an impressive 38 points and doing it all inside the arc. He really plays hard and is a scrappy player, moving well without the ball but also staying aggressive to find his shot. He went off for 28 in the second half, really playing at a big-time level. Loved his touch on his floater and just how he moved without the ball to get open and create opportunities for himself.
2023 Jaydin Spillman-Martin (NLPB): One of the top bigs in his class, Spillman-Martin showed us just how special he can be and the rising upside with his game. You don’t see too many bigs that move like he does, running the floor, and showing how fundamentally sound he is. He just continues to expand his game, knocking down threes from outside as well as being a force down in the paint.
2023 Xavier Tubbs (Watch Us Work): Tubbs was spectacular in the second half of the day, going for 32 points but overall, he was strong all throughout. The tough guard was all over the place, giving us a taste of his explosive play on the floor and really showing how he excels in getting to the basket. Also displayed a confident pull-up jumper, as he was connecting all day long.
2022 Charles McClennahan (Team Howard): I remember watching and writing about McClennahan back in 2019 as there was intrigue then and he continues to shine each time he steps on the court; which is why I think he could be a nice steal for a program. But he is a versatile prospect with great size and mobility. He shows he can handle and put it on the floor, finish strong around the rim, while also popping out on offense. McClennahan also does a nice job on the boards.