I witnessed hoopers ready to take the next jump in their development this past weekend in Hammond, Indiana. A competitive group of young athletes fighting for the future of NXTPRO Basketball. Quick highlight of a couple stock risers from over the weekend.
#23 | PF/C | Arian Gashi | Illinois Express 15U
Arian’s frame was wiry and for a big man at his height, but he used his long arms and agility to get around the opposing big man. Sat down in the bottom of the zone nicely when the ball was swung from side to side. He played the 5 at times with different lineups in the game, but I feel as if Gashi excelled in the 4 slot with his quick movement and ability to score at all 3 levels. His footwork makes him a dangerous cover down low with the added length. His relocation in the paint created pockets in the defense that were easy enough to find. He makes for a talented forward with guard skills and quick twitch.
#25 | SF | Kendall McDowell | Road2Greatness 17U
Kendall was a physical offensive presence when he got into the game. Brought a spark to the second unit and his activity on the glass and on loose balls was infectious to his teammates. Puts his imprint on the game as soon as he steps in to create chaos with his versatility on the defensive end, guarding larger centers and switching onto guards out on the perimeter. Found different spots to rebound the ball with ferocity and intensity while putting the shot up without even touching the ground; one seamless motion made it look like he’s done this before. A game wrecker, ready to make his mark on the scene this season.
#9 | SF |Devan Davis | Road2Greatness 17U
Devan instantly stood out to me with his defensive awareness and timing. His first step was as lightning quick as his opponent, beating them to the spot on multiple dribble drive occasions. Used his hands very well shadowing the basketball without fouling and constantly sliding his feet to keep himself active on the ball. His offensive game is still growing which may be a scary thought for such an intense player. Gets downhill and playmakes with the best of them. His relentless rim pressure encourages defenders to sag off around the 3 point arc, which frees up his jumper from deep. Potential to change an organization with his motor and passion for the game.
#15 | SG | Jaxx McKinney | Hoop Dreams 12U
Jaxx looked like a varsity starter the way he was hooping without looking afraid of the moment. Knocked down 3 of 3 triples from deep to continue the offensive clinic from his Hoop Dreams squad. It looked as if the ball barely hit the net in those first 3 attempts for McKinney. A solid defender with not a lot of flash to his game, but even the best hoopers make their noise in silence. Seemed to be playing the game from a different point of view because of his smooth stroke and confidence to knock down 3’s when his team needed him most. A very gifted shooter that added multiple winning plays for his team. I have high hopes for one of the best young shooters in the NXT League.
#96 | PG | Jeremiyah Johnson | Train For The Best 14U
Johnson got his steps in all over the court on Friday night in Hammond, Indiana. Everywhere on the court for his squad, filling up the stat sheet on both offense and defense, and I think that is attributed to how hard he plays the game. His guard skills will pop out from the jump, but the consistent drive every single time down the court is what drew me in. Handling the ball and getting downhill seemed to be a strength of his and his playmaking once he demanded help side was beautiful. Fearless driver to the cup who is willing to challenge every center at the summit. Scoop layups through 2 defenders off of a tough step through just shows the upside he has as a scorer in traffic. Johnson has been a joy to watch attack the basket and I look forward to seeing perform again.
Whether it was 12U, 14U, or 17U, these athletes are putting it all on the line for a chance at getting seen by the best coaches and scouts in the country. Great film by these young and talented hoopers this weekend in Hammond, Indiana.
