2032 Xaviar James (1 of 1 Elite)
There are a lot of enticing prospects on 1 of 1 Elite, including James and his impressive all-around game. He’s young but already possesses a highly polished skillset a strong combination of IQ, ball-handling, and scoring prowess to operate as an offensive focal point. James possesses superior size and athleticism relative to his peers, and understands how to use his physical tools to his advantage. He’s also a quality rebounder and defender across multiple positions. Given his age, there’s already a lot to like.
6’3 ’29 Braylon Armstrong (Charlotte Mavs)
Easily one of the most intriguing prospects on display, Armstrong has a lot of appealing tools at this stage in his development. He’s quite skilled with the ability to pass, dribble, and score in a variety of different ways. Armstrong utilizes his body well around the basket to secure rebounds and absorb contact defensively. He appears comfortable spacing the floor and attacking opposing forwards/big men off the bounce. If he continues to grow, Armstrong has the chance to be a phenomenal talent.
6’4’ 30 Darren Carey (Team Grind)
In terms of physical appeal, Carey is easily one of the more advanced players on display across all age groups. There are plenty of middle-schoolers with size, but it’s uncommon to see guys with his level of strength, coordination, and general athleticism. Carey rebounds the ball at a nonstop rate and protects the paint very well defensively. He’s legitimately overpowering and physical enough to consistently play through a lot of contact on both ends of the floor. Already built like a tank, it’ll be interesting to see how his game progresses going forward.
6’3 ’30 Sonny Watkins (Team Loaded)
Although we watched him several times last summer, it’s easy to see how much Watkins has improved and physically developed. He’s long, mobile, and naturally impacts the game on both ends of the floor. Watkins already understands how to control the glass, force turnovers defensively, and finish around the basket. Watkins’ motor and athleticism allow him to produce with or without the ball in his hands. It’s easy to see his long-term upside.
5’9 29 Kenard Howell (NLPB)
It’s easy to appreciate the balance from NLPB, but Howell was clearly their most reliable contributor in this contest. He’s a quick, heady lead guard who touches the paint, knocks down three-pointers, and defends with phenomenal energy at the point of attack. Howell handles the ball well and looks to create for others while applying pressure as a penetrator and finisher. Playing up an age group, he’s stood out as a key piece for this group.