Phenom Hoops had a tremendous opportunity to go out to Kansas City to check in and help out with the US Open Basketball. It was terrific to check out new talent from all over the country once again, learning plenty of new names and new programs. Here were some of the best players I saw from the weekend.
2027 Chase Branham (KC Run GMC)
Branham is a known name coming in and he showed why on several occasions this past weekend in Kansas City. Branham, a strong, high-IQ point guard was able to flourish in leading his team to a championship. He consistently showcased his ability to knock down shots and create, being a threat in catch-and-shoot situations from outside but also using his size, playmaking ability, and creativity to score off the bounce. This is a guard that holds multiple high-major offers from schools like Creighton, Iowa, Kansas State, Indiana, and others, and he showed why throughout the event.
2028 Titus Moore (KC Run GMC)
Moore was another prospect who performed well and should be a target for schools in the coming years. He has a football-like frame, can be used in a variety of ways, and finds ways to bring production to the table. Moore has a strong and physical offensive skillset, getting to where he wants, using his 6’6 frame to his advantage, and also battling on both ends of the court. He will be one to monitor down the way for college coaches in that area more.
2028 Dylan Betts (Tru Colorado)
Many people already knew about Betts, but we were eager to see how he has progressed. As we wrote about him earlier over the weekend, the 7-footer continues to show glimpses of what he could ultimately be but also a big man that has a way to go to reach his full potential. But Betts was able to showcase his improved offensive game, his improved strength, touch around the basket, and also his impact on the glass and protecting the paint. He has already earned a few impressive offers and believe more will be coming shortly.
2029 Josiah Akognon (Pivot Life Jayhawks)
This was my first time watching this young man operate on the court, and I was highly impressed. A young point guard who was dynamic with the ball in his hands, and one who did a great job in creating for himself and others. Akognon, the son of Josh Akognon, who played several years overseas and a short time with the Dallas Mavericks, was able to flourish with the ball in his hands. Crafty handles to create space, attacks and battles through defenders to get to his spots, scores well over defenders at his size, and was able to set up his teammates also. He will be a name you hear more about in the coming years.
2030 Hudson Heim (KC Run GMC)
Heim may be the prospect I’m most excited about watching growing up, as we covered him extensively. We had this to say to sum up his game: “Though that may be a few years down the road, the potential with his overall game and at his size are quite impressive. Heim is such a versatile piece that can be used in several areas. Whether he is running the floor at his size and finishing in transition, operating down in the paint and finishing with touch, handling and looking to create, or his ability to operate and knock down shots from three, Heim gives you a little bit of everything. And again, this is a young man going into the eighth grade and still has room for tremendous growth with his game.”