The West Coast Kickoff was the first stop on our Prep Hoops Next Middle School circuit. The event took place in Ladera Ranch, February 6th, and 7th. In addition to being our initial event, it also provided our first look…
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Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log inThe West Coast Kickoff was the first stop on our Prep Hoops Next Middle School circuit. The event took place in Ladera Ranch, February 6th, and 7th. In addition to being our initial event, it also provided our first look at several outstanding young prospects. This event featured buzzer beaters, heart-stopping moments, and some fantastic performances. In this article, we take a look back at the West Coast Kick-Off.
Top Storyline: The Dominance of Sneaker Steal
Sneaker Steal brought an absolutely loaded squad and a complete team to the WCKO. They featured the PG play of Tyler Johnson, wing scoring from DJ Spencer, shooting from Jordan Mize, and rebounding from Braxton Caruso. The team cruised to some easy pool play victories, before turning it on in bracket play, winning the championship game by 24.
Breakout Player: Mckel Shedrick
During a phone call with coach Marvin Lea, he mentioned several players as key guys for his 2025 squad. Shedrick’s name was mentioned right along with the rest of them, however, I don’t think anyone expected him to play as well as he did. The lefty combo guard went from just another guy to one of the fastest rising prospects in the class of 2025. His versatility and playmaking have been off the charts, as he’s been one of the lead guys for Team Eleate during Circuit play.
Stars In Their Roles: Archie Graves (AEBC) Daylon Mike (YBA) Eddie Ramey (WOGW)
Each of these players played on talented teams. In the case of Graves, and Mike, their teams went on to win the Championship, while WOGO played in the Championship game. Neither of these teams would have had the success they did without the contribution of these players. Graves was the steady hand for AEBC, getting the ball to their talented scorers. Mike, was a facilitator and big shot maker for YBA, and Ramey provided consistent leadership for WOGW’s championship run.
Memorable Moment: Jason Crowe’s Game Winner
There were quite a few buzzer beaters that weekend, but none tops c/o 2026 PG Jason Crowe’s deep three to defeat the San Diego Prospects in what was one of the best Circuit games of the year.
Top Sleeper: Xander Werner AZ Select
Keep an eye out for Werner. At 6’3 he plays with a tremendous motor. While not the first or second option, he still managed to score off sheer effort and hustle, offensive rebounding, and finishing in transition. With his effort, length, and talent, Werner is a definite prospect to keep an eye on moving forward.
Top Prospect: Koa Peat
Peat is one of the top players in his class, so it should come as no surprise that he was one of the top prospects. His rebounding and rim protection are a given, what allows him a chance to be special is his ball skills. Several times throughout the weekend, the 6’7 forward was able to grab the ball off the backboard before starting the break.