Last weekend, Martin Brothers 15, 16, and 17u competed in the Ultimate Club Championships in Las Vegas. Playing against some of the top teams in the country from 3SSB, UAA, and excellent independent teams, the 2024 squad went 3-2, gaining wins over Compton Magic 3SSB, AE5 (Anthony Edwards Elite) 3SSB, and Las Vegas Punishers. This team proved they can compete with anyone, showing their excellent talent and execution.

Carson Johnson | 2024 | 6’0 | G | Ankeny

Johnson had as good of a weekend as anyone on Martin Brothers in Las Vegas. The guard was play making at a high level, controlling the game offensively at times from the guard spot. He was great attacking off the bounce with quick crossover moves. Once he gained separation, Johnson had the midrange pull up going, got to the rim, and hit kick outs or cutters with excellent vision. From three, his jumper looks solid and needs to be respected, increasing his efficiency from this range will be important this year for Johnson. On the other end, Johnson is very good on the ball, navigates screens well, and forces turnovers for high quality transition looks at the basket for himself or others. Johnson will be a positive addition to a college program.

Cade Courbat | 2024 | 6’8 | F | Cedar Falls

Courbat has been having a very good offseason this Spring and Summer, demonstrating his elite defense and offensive upside. This has helped the incoming senior gain offers from UMKC (Division 1) and Truman State (Division 2). As he does consistently, Courbat was erasing shots in Las Vegas, reading drives and getting up to protect the rim. On the other end, I was impressed with his passing. Courbat was consistent hitting cutters off the block or dunker spot. In addition to the passing, the forward was strong converting in the paint through contact.

Owen Larson | 2024 | 6’2 | G | Estherville Lincoln Central | South Dakota State Commit

The South Dakota State commit continues another strong grassroots season with Martin Brothers. As usual, the guard’s vision was on full display in both transition and half-court offense. Off the dribble, Larson got to the rim attacking closeouts and in screening action with crafty finishes, stopped short for efficient floaters, or hit teammates when help got to him. His decision making, scoring prowess, and overall efficiency with the ball in his hands will give him a shot at contributing for the Jackrabbits.

Redek Born | 2024 | 6’3 | G | Norwalk | UNI Commit

Born had an excellent weekend coming off his commitment to the University of Northern Iowa, following his brother’s footsteps. His multi-level scoring was on full display, scoring at an elite level both inside and out. Using his frame, ability to finish with both hands, and contact finishing, Born is a very effective driver. Both pulling up in transition and hitting catch and shoot threes, Born was also hot from beyond the arc. His ability with the ball in his hands will make him a good addition to the Panthers.

Matthew Noll | 2024 | 6’7 | F | Bishop Heelan

Noll had his two-way impact on full display in Vegas. As usual, Noll excelled blocking shots, moving on the perimeter, rebounding on both ends, and making plays in transition. Offensively, the forward is a knockdown three-point shooter from the corners and can finish above the rim with his size and athleticism. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill make him an intriguing prospect, already holding offers from DIIs Wayne State and Truman State.

Gavin Thomas | 2024 | 6’2 | G | Aplington Parkersburg

Thomas thrives in his three and D roll with Martin Brothers. Coming off the bench, he provides a spark on the defensive end with his athleticism and positioning. On the other end, Thomas is great from the three-point line, has the explosion to get to the rim, and is a good decision maker as a passer. Overall the AP guard makes a lot of positive plays for this squad.

Jackson Kutcher | 2024 | 6’3 | G | Mount Vernon

Kutcher gave some highly valuable floor spacing for Martin Brothers in Las Vegas. He was a flamethrower from the three-point line. With the solid size and athleticism to make an impact on the defensive end as well, Kut her should get some looks to play at the next level. Watch for a huge senior year from him at Mt. Vernon.

Cole Marsh | 2024 | 6’6 | W | Waverly Shell Rock | Iowa Football Commit

Marsh is an excellent athlete coming off the bench for this MB 2024 team. His versatile defense, transition impact, finishing, and flashes of ball skills bring positive plays off the bench. The Wing just committed to be a PWO at Iowa for Football next year, finishing up a huge week.