by: Ethan Reece
2023 Kameron Roberts (Warriors TBT)
Without a doubt the biggest workhorse I saw on the day. He gave defenders the work no matter where on the court, and his unique physique allows him to play and guard any position. He’s got the athleticism and quickness to get downhill and the muscle to bully others down low. Plays so tough on a team that centered totally around defensive intensity and forcing turnovers
2023 Jordan Anderson (Warriors TBT)
Jordan came off the bench in this matchup but immediately made an impact and was recognized as a glue guy. Like teammate Kameron, he plays so physically and has the ability to apply pressure on both ends. Takes care of intangibles and looks to swing the ball and find cutters. Strong and tough finisher but also spotted up and knocked down three triples
2024 Rakease Passmore (NLPB 828)
There’s already been a lot of buzz around Rakease, and deservingly so. He’s got that “it” factor and has been blessed with a lot of gifts you just can’t teach. Natural athleticism and length allow him to smoothly handle the ball and get to the basket at will, basically getting wherever he wants on the court with a quick first step. With only being a rising sophomore, expect him to be blowing up soon and headlining the Western part of the state
2023 Merel Burgess (Carolina Bad Boyz)
At first glance, most anyone will assume Merel will be a slow and steady presence down low. Minutes into the game they’ll be blown away. He’s so quick and explosive for his size, being able to run the floor and get downhill. His frame is good enough to match up with any post while he can still move his feet to handle any guards as well.
2024 Kennard Wyche (VA Havoc 2023)
Talk about stepping up and embracing the moment. Kennard is a 5’6 PG playing up two levels and leaving his impact felt all over the game. Finished with 24 points in a big win for his squad, where he showcased his scrappiness and maturity. He excelled in the tough and quick style of play the game followed, leaving no questions about whether his size mattered, too much fight in this dog!
2023 Wesley Tubbs (Team United)
It just seemed like anytime something good happened, Wesley had his hands involved with it to some degree. He was sensational on the defensive end, applying pressure all game on a strong PG in Keyon Webb. Got all up in his space and forced turnovers, which usually takes quite the effort. Also came up clutch as Team United closed the gap in the second half and came away with the win, made all his free throws to close the game out
2023s Donovan Kirk and Jayden Boyd(York County Legends)
When these guys got going, the tides started shifting. They sparked a 20 point second-half comeback to pull put a solid win against Upstate Select. Donovan led the way as the shifty playmaking PG, creating for himself and others. One of those he created for was big man Jayden Boyd. He towered over the defense, taking his time and letting defenders fly by with pump fakes after quick dish offs