Given how much times have changed over the recent years, this current stretch of weeks is undeniably critical for college coaches hunting transfers in the portal. However, there are still a lot of worthy next-level prospects floating around in the travel ball ranks. This number will naturally decline as the months pass, but any programs looking to bolster their roster would certainly be wise to take a closer look at Strictly Ballas Elite. For what it’s worth, Najai Hines played with this group last spring before relocating to New Jersey and becoming a nationally recognized prospect. They have a variety of enticing pieces in the Class of 2026, but we are going to primarily focus on their mix of unsigned seniors. Let’s take a closer look…
It’s pretty easy to see the appeal with Jaevian Alston. At 6-foot-6 with length, athleticism, and a versatile identity on both ends of the floor, it’s surprising he didn’t collect more offers throughout his senior season. Alston truly does it all. He’s comfortable initiating the offense and creating for others, yet assertive enough to consistently take advantage of available scoring chances from all levels. Alston handles the ball well to get downhill and penetrate, but also knocks down jumpers at an efficient rate from midrange and beyond the arc. He makes smart decisions as a creator and finds opportunities as a cutter or spot-up threat. Alston is a reliable defender across multiple positions and quality rebounder who knows how to push the break in transition. Although there are plenty of factors involved, it would be surprising if he doesn’t finish up at a Division I program.
In a similar vein, Brandon Solomon should appeal to several types of scholarship-level coaches. He’s another athletic, versatile piece who can create matchup problems in various ways. Solomon is a smart creator with length, vision, and toughness. He gets downhill with relative ease but can knock down jumpers at a solid rate. Solomon plays hard, guards multiple positions, and regularly overwhelms opponents with his physicality. Add in his rebounding presence, and it’s easy to see all the ways he impacts a game.
Seemingly every program needs size, which is why more schools should be looking at Brandon Hyman. He’s long, fluid, and physical with an understanding of how to anchor the paint on both ends of the floor. Hyman’s tough, rugged, high-motor approach allows him to cause a ton of problems for opponents. He’s a strong rebounder who battles hard and displays excellent activity on the glass. Hyman flies around defensively to block and alter shots at a consistent rate, and runs the floor properly in transition. He also finishes well around the basket and routinely outworks others for extra possessions.
Rounding out this group of unsigned pieces, Evan Dean and Zymier Puckett each bring their own dynamic to the table. Dean is a long, wiry forward who can finish or knock down jumpers along the perimeter. Meanwhile, Puckett is a tough, athletic guard with size, defensive prowess, and the ability to impact the game within his role.