As times change, the emphasis on pure development has seemingly decreased in many basketball circles. Some coaches would prefer to play countless games and live with the results, regardless if the kids are actually improving. Instead, it’s refreshing to see a group like MOT Elite 2028 (coached by former pro Ronshad Shabazz) and how they’ve progressed throughout the travel ball season. They opened the year going 2-4 in their first two events and followed it up by finishing 5-0 in their last two appearances. Currently sitting at 7-4, let’s take a look at a few of their pieces…
Although they are a fairly balanced group with a slew of intriguing prospects, Lincoln Burns might have as much upside as anyone on the roster. At 6-foot-6 with length, mobility, and a solid interior presence, he knows how to impact the game within his role. Despite this being his first basketball season, Burns already stands out as a useful piece who plays hard and positions himself for success on both ends of the floor. He’s still getting stronger and more athletic but does a great job of battling for rebounds, running the floor in transition, and finishing around the basket. Burns is also capable of walling-up to alter shots defensively. His steady presence should allow him to mesh with any collection of teammates, so it’ll be interesting to follow his development over the coming years.
Additionally, their guard duo of Colin Cook and Robert Beasley consistently stood out for this group. Both guys operated as interchangeable ball-handlers and penetrating threats who understand how to initiate the offense and get others involved in the action. Whether getting downhill and finishing, setting up others, or getting to the line, they proved to be difficult for opponents to contain. This team will definitely be worth more viewings as we analyze their entire roster over these next few months, but it’s easy to see the massive strides they’ve made since March.