This past weekend, NC Spartans Neisler claimed the 16U Championship at our annual Gate City Showcase. They’ve been nothing short of impressive to start the summer season, and that only continued here. Beyond the phenomenal coaching and chemistry, it’s worth noting that they found success despite only having six players available. Let’s take a look at their six…
6’2 ’26 Aidan O’Gara
Although each guy listed brings so much value to the group, O’Gara is easily recognized for his very well-rounded identity. He’s proven to be reliable at running the offense and operating as a main playmaker. O’Gara scores the ball from all levels, but excels at attacking the basket, forcing the defense to bend, and making the proper decision with the ball in his hands. He’s a smart, willing passer who locates open teammates with relative ease. O’Gara doubles as an efficient scoring option from all levels. He’s also a reliable defender and quality rebounder who plays hard and maintains involvement in all facets of the game.
6’4 ’26 Ben Houpt
Since we wrote about him yesterday, we will merely reiterate that Houpt is an incredibly smooth, skilled wing with size and an adaptable game. He’s a high-level shooting threat, both off the catch and bounce, who forces opponents to stay attached at all times. Houpt applies pressure from midrange, beyond the arc, and attacks the basket whenever available. He’s a solid defender who utilizes his length well to disrupt opponents.
6’5 ’26 Andre Gyabaah
It’s easy to see the appeal with Gyabaah, especially as a long-term prospect. Although he’s already quite talented, the versatile forward has shown consistent improvement with each new viewing. Gyabaah is long, strong, and athletic, yet also possesses an impressive amount of skill for his size/position. He’s a natural matchup problem for opponents, as he’s able to physically overpower smaller assignments and draw bigger assignments out to the perimeter (where he can attack or knock down jumpers). Gyabaah rebounds well and is capable of switching across multiple positions defenisvley.
6’1 ’26 Owen Calvert
Given how much production he provides as a scorer and overall offensive catalyst, Calvert brings obvious value to this group. He’s a lethal shooter and reliable creator off the bounce. Calvert mixes it up at a healthy rate from all levels, finishes well through contact (especially for his size), and sets up others with consistency. He’s also a scrappy defender and tough player in general who will do the dirty work whenever possible. Like his cohorts, Calvert’s game translates to the next level.
6’3 ’26 Braxton Davis
In a world where everyone wants to consider themselves a guard, Davis is truly a breath of fresh air. His tough, rugged, high-motor identity makes him as valuable as anyone on the roster. Not only does Davis routinely defend bigs and rebound amongst the trees, but he’s also smart, skilled, and capable of causing matchup problems for opponents. He finishes and shoots the ball at a high percentage, but also has the necessary instincts to make proper reads as a playmaker. That being said, Davis’ blue-collar approach is so easy to recognize and appreciate, as it directly contributes to winning.
6’0 ’26 Mason Dudley
Rounding out their group from the weekend, Dudley stepped up to play a key role for this team. He’s a steady, well-rounded guard who comfortably fills in the gaps on both ends of the floor. Dudley can reliably pass, dribble, and score within the framework of the offense. He’s also a useful defender and rebounder who plays with great energy at all times.
