Brawl for the Ball: New Kids On The Block 17U

The sun has set on inspire courts in Gilbert AZ and Brawl for the ball is over. I had a chance to witness some really good ball this weekend and was really impressed by some of the talent I saw. Here are my New Kids On The Block from the 17U division at Brawl for the Ball. 

Eric Reza G 6’1” El Paso Matrix 2023

Reza has a complete offensive game. He is a three-level player that can score the ball from anywhere on the floor with great efficiency.  He’s a smooth operator with a high basketball IQ and it showed all weekend when he hooped. Doesn’t get rattled, makes the right play at the right time to the right person. A solid prospect.

Salim Arikat F 6’8” Team Rampage Elite 2023

Stretch four who can run the floor and finish in transition. Can finish on the block through contact but is much better in pick and roll and pick and pop situations. Rebounds well from the weak side and is a reliable help side defender. A high motor guy who plays with a chip on his shoulder. Arikat had a very solid weekend here in Arizona.

Travis Torain Travis Torain 6'7" | SF Dream City Christian | 2024 State #181 Nation AZ F 6’6” AZ Unity (EYBL) 2023

A silky smooth wing that can fill it from the outside. Understands the game, knows how to get open to get his shot. Can get to the bucket and drain jump shots off the dribble with a beautiful high release. Torain is cool under pressure, doesn’t allow the defense to rush him into bad decisions. A capable defender and a good rebounder for his position. Upside is very high.

Carlos Meraz F 6’3” El Paso Matrix 2023

Hard nosed prospect who doesn’t take plays off. Can fill it up from behind the three point line. Understands how to use leverage to gain good rebounding position and has the ability to finish strong amongst taller defenders. Plays with a lot of energy, willing to sacrifice personal goals to make all of the winning plays for his team. 

Mykayle McCoy F 6’8” Splash City West 2023

Big body forward that knows how to get the job done. Skilled enough to score inside and outside. McCoy uses his wide frame to take advantage of would be defenders on the low post then steps out and uses his quickness to drive around slower guys. A solid defender and high level rebounder who plays hard and is always in attack mode. 

Xavier Ogle PG 5’9” D1 So Cal 2023

A small guard with a big heart and growing game. An elite defender who loves to pick up opposing guards ninety four feet. A floor general that has total control of his team while on the basketball court. Makes all the right decisions, whether it’s setting up teammates or going to get his own shot. Ogle is good off the pull up and can knock down shots from distance.