2032 Javian Smith (Team Loaded J5)
Already possessing excellent size and highlighting flashes of two-way ability, there’s a lot to like about Smith’s foundation. He’s bigger than the majority of his peers, but also displays an understanding of how to secure position, finish with touch, and play through contact. Smith is fairly mobile for his size and is capable of patrolling the paint well on defense to get rebounds and block or alter shots. He also does a nice job of running the floor in transition. Should he continue to grow and develop, he has the tools to be a quality player.
2031 Thomas Turner (DFE)
Although the DFE squad played up a level, it didn’t stop them from reaching the title game with Turner outperforming all guards in his path. He’s a strong, well-rounded guard with a high IQ and impressive polish as a creator and overall scorer. Turner utilizes his pace, tight handle, and compact frame to effortlessly break down opponents off the dribble, bounce through the paint, and finish or set up others. He hits jumpers at a consistent rate along the perimeter and sets up others at a terrific rate. Add in his scrappy, physical defensive presence, and it’s easy to see his impact.
2032 Jah’Keem Robertson (Team Loaded J5)
Given all the ways he’s able to impact the game as a versatile, well-rounded piece, Robertson clearly stood out as a difference-maker for this group. He’s long, wiry, and athletic with the ability to operate in various different roles. Robertson does a little bit of everything on the court. He can create for himself and others or operate without the ball. Robertson is a nice cutter who positions himself for success on both ends of the floor. He rebounds well for his size, defends multiple positions, and alters his approach to fulfill team needs offensively.
2031 Elnathan Hagos (DFE)
Although both big men on this roster caused constant problems for opponents, Hagos was arguably as impactful as anyone. While he does possess great size and the ability to physically create advantages for himself, he really stood out through his feel and understanding of how to affect the game on both ends of the floor. Hagos operated in the two-man game, finished well as a roller or scorer out of the post, and made his presence consistently felt on the glass. Add in his timing and ability to block shots defensively, and there’s certainly a lot to like.