The grassroots landscape has gradually (not entirely) drifted away from the competitive balance between independent programs and the primary circuit teams. While it's still evident, we would be na've to think that the current scene is comparable to that of three or five years ago. Regardless, BSA Supreme (formerly CC Elite) has maintained their status as a premier independent program and a squad that can legitimately go toe-to-toe with any opponent in the state. Given their coaching, chemistry, and overall status last season, no one should be surprised at the continued achievements. Coach Phil Watson has done an exceptional job of keeping this group intact and incredibly unselfish'which directly correlates to their on-court success. Let's look at their pieces…
This team has a roster full of next-level prospects, but it would be difficult to properly highlight this group without mentioning the leadership of the Daniel twins, Chase and Carson. In all honesty, this probably wasn't their best showing. They were still incredibly impactful and stood out as difference-makers, but the duo has been better. Though it might sound somewhat negative at first, this should only excite folks about the growth of this program as a whole. It simply meant that other guys needed to step up and perform at a higher level, and they did. That being said, it's impossible to identify Chase or Carson as anything other than leaders. Carson runs the team as the floor general, smartly and unselfishly setting up others with excellent consistency. Meanwhile, Chase continues to shine as a scorer with playmaking ability. Both guys are exceptional defenders with the blend of motor, toughness, and instincts to overwhelm opponents.
In turn, Jaylen Claggett (featured in Bendel's Best) took this opportunity to emerge as another major piece for BSA Supreme. He's always been productive, but the well-rounded guard stepped up and carried the offense for numerous stretches. Claggett is a smooth shooter with IQ, vision, and the ability to apply efficient scoring pressure from all three levels. He's a reliable defender and rebounder who understands how to properly fill in the gaps and make plays within the team concept on both ends of the floor. Additionally, Liam Gates returns as a premier marksman and quietly one of the most lethal spot-up shooters in the state. He's also a capable passer and defender with an active motor and unselfish mentality.
The interior duo of Mason Hagedorn and Edgar Escobedo bring obvious value. Hagedorn possesses the makings of a modernized center with his ability to finish, rebound, stretch the floor, and protect the rim. He's long, plays hard, and embraces his identity on both ends of the floor. Though his growth has been visible to this point, Hagedorn still has a ton of upside remaining. He should keep developing into a Division I big man, assuming he continues to work. On the other hand, Escobedo is probably among the more underrated guys on the roster from afar. His status as a tough, blue-collar big man with a high motor and willingness to make the hustle plays will probably never get the appropriate attention'but it's still valuable nonetheless. Both guys are already scholarship-level players, and should keep trending in a positive direction.
Despite being new additions to their group, Tyler Showalter and Maddox Watson have fit seamlessly as a pair of unselfish, well-rounded wing/forwards who have clearly bought-in to the bigger picture. Both guys play hard, do the little things, and actively fill in the gaps on either side of the ball. Neither player necessarily needs a ton of offensive touches in order to make a lasting impact, but they are both capable of capitalizing on opportunities within this scheme. Last but certainly not least, Landon Foley continues to operate as their adaptable all-around piece. He's a natural glue-guy with a fairly complete skillset and the ability to alter his approach based on team need. Foley can reliably pass, defend, rebound, and apply efficient scoring pressure from all levels. His overall adaptability is an undeniably important x-factor to this group, and should certainly appeal to college coaches over the foreseeable future.
Regardless of the name change or new additions to the roster, BSA Supreme remains a team worth noting'both now and going forward. They have a slew of talented prospects and can legitimately compete with anyone in the state. Expect this group's appeal to continually rise throughout the summer season.
