By: Nicolas Chapman
2025 Landon Shirk (15u Tennessee impact)
When watching Tennessee Impact play in their tournament, number 24 stood out to me with his shifty play and crafty layup package. Landon Shirk plays with confidence and knows that he can take over and win a game down the stretch. He’s almost unblockable at the rim with the way he twists his body and arms to become out of his defender’s reach. His elite handles and passing ability create opportunities for the rest of his team and he can know down a three from steps behind the arc.
2023 Elijah Strong (17u Team Curry)
Elijah Strong is a 6’8” power forward going into his senior season at Myers Park High School. He’s a very strong post player and plays great, physical defense. He displays elegant post moves and fights to get every rebound and both sides of the ball. He also has great court vision and passing ability, he effortlessly finds open teammates and makes difficult passes.
2023 Riley Allenspach (17u Team Curry)
6’11” Riley Allenspach is a great prospect and holds offers from East Carolina, Furman, Mercer and more. He attacks the basket with force and is a rebound machine. His interior and perimeter defense is outstanding with his size and length. Not only is he a great center, but he can also dribble well and has an incredible mid-range and three-point shot. He shoots a very efficient percentage and is great at stretching the floor and clearing up the drive for his slashing teammates.
2023 Larson Gazzaway (17u bigger than basketball)
When playing in a later game it’s easy to be overlooked because people don’t want to stay for it, but Larson Gazzaway made Bigger Than Basketball’s win an incredible one. Although it’s easy to be tired at the end of a long day, watching Larson play filled me with so much energy just watching him play. He also filled the stands with enthusiasm as he made big play after big play in a closely contested game. He plays with a great sense of leadership that you want from your players and especially your guards. He shot the ball well and made dazzling circus shots at the rim, evoking numerous “oohs” and “aahs” from the crowd. His electric play eventually lead to a big win and an even bigger performance.