4 Texas Players Make The U16 Field of 16
Allen Pettigrew
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<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Texas is well represented on the Olympic stage. 25% of the field claims the state as home. They’re ranked all nationally ranked in their respective classes. Here’s what each of them can bring to the team if selected on August 19th.</p>
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="787327" first="Jacolb" last="Cole"]</strong></p>
<p>At 6-8, Cole gives Team USA the size and scoring to put jumbo lineups on the court. He has a nice pull up jumper with the size to shoot over defenders. Those qualities make him a difficult shot maker. On the EYBL circuit, he flashed playmaking skills, shifting the defense before finding a shooter in the corner with cross court passes. He’s a multidimensional offensive player with a switchable defensive frame.</p>
<p><strong>Justin McBride</strong></p>
<p>The versatility McBride brings on both sides of the ball is stellar. He left for Oak Hill Academy after his freshman year, steadily improving his body and feel for the game against the nation’s best. On the AAU circuit, the 6-7 forward rebounded and protected the rim. McBride can play in the post, hit open perimeter shots, and take bigs off the dribble. An underrated part of his game continues to be his passing. When you place him on the elbow, his complete package of skills flourish.</p>
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="892162" first="Ronald" last="Holland"]</strong></p>
<p>Energy and intensity are the intangible trademarks of Holland’s game. The 6-8 forward is a known winner in Texas capturing two state titles in just as many years playing high school ball. His perimeter skills continue to develop, making him a more credible inside-out threat. Holland can play above the rim and is a standout transition threat that can push it and finish on the break. His true value is on the defensive end where he can competently guard 1-4, excels in a switching scheme, and has excellent pick and roll defense.</p>
<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="1125933" first="Liam" last="McNeeley"] </strong></p>
<p>The 6-7 forward is just 1 of 5 2024 prospects to make it to the round of 16. He’s the only 2024 Texas resident of the group. McNeeley will bring a jack of all trades game to a talented group of players. His size and athleticism will allow him to compete physically. His shooting will help space the floor to give guards and bigs the space to operate in the paint. The John Paul II transfer will bring IQ and advanced passing to the court, giving the team a big playmaker.</p>
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