EYBL Update: MD/DC Prospects Taking Advantage
Over the course of the week, prospects from the MD/DC area have taken advantage of the bright lights that come with playing on an EYBL stage. While some have further added to their argument as being national prospects, others have…
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Continue ReadingOver the course of the week, prospects from the MD/DC area have taken advantage of the bright lights that come with playing on an EYBL stage. While some have further added to their argument as being national prospects, others have used their opportunities to establish themselves in conversations with the onlooking college programs. For this article, we’ll take a look at some prospects who have risen to the challenge and helped both their team’s success and their individual recruitment.
Hansberry’s tear
The top player in our 2023 player rankings has been nothing short of consistent throughout Peach Jam play. The 6-foot-7 forward is a double-double machine and his efforts were highlighted as he collected a miss from Kwame Evans on a lay-up attempt for a quick put-back as time expired to lift Team Durant over JL3. Hansberry is averaging 17 points and 11.5 rebounds per contest. While Illinois, Penn State and Virginia Tech have entrenched themselves in his recruitment, Oregon and West Virginia are the latest to offer the Mount St. Joseph workhorse.
Evans comes up clutch
As if one last-second finish wasn’t enough for this Durant crew, Evans followed up with some late theatrics of his own last night. With the game tied, 2024 Del Jones had his drive to the basket halted and as he pivoted to look for teammates, Evans quickly cut down the middle of the lane, made the catch and drew a foul with .4 seconds left. He made 1-of-2 free-throws, which was ultimately enough to help Durant escape over Mokan Elite (who was undefeated coming in) to secure a spot in the Elite 8. Like Hansberry, Evans has been consistent in the scoring and rebounding category throughout the week and also made headlines after announcing that he will be committing on August 2nd choosing between Auburn, Kentucky, Arizona and Oregon.
Takeover suffers their first loss
Takeover took on City Rocks last night as they looked to protect their undefeated record since traveling to North Augusta. City Rocks came out blazing and it wasn’t until late in the fourth quarter when Takeover made their run to put themselves in position to steal yet another game. Ultimately, City Rocks would end up escaping with a 69-65 victory, but Team Takeover was still able to secure a spot in bracket play. Jacoi Hutchinson has stepped up over the last couple of game with his outside shooting, his willingness to crash the boards and his ability to get paint touches and create for others. Hutchinson finished last night’s game with a sturdy 14 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Jeremiah Quigley has also been key from a primary ball-handler position both as a scoring and pace controlling role.
Commander catching attention
2023 guard Tyson Commander has found his niche with Team Durant at the most important time. The 6-foot-4 southpaw has been in a groove finding his mark from deep, been aggressive in transition while finishing with efficiency and been a frequent producer of deflections off the ball defensively. With so much talent flowing through the Durant roster, it has been a process with Commander, but he’s allowing his activity and buy-in on the defensive end to spark his offensive production and overall energy.
Ward’s ascension starts now
Locally, we’ve been aware of the potential and upside that 2025 Cameron Ward offers. That potential and upside is no longer a secret as he’s put together an impressive showing throughout Peach Jam play that has resulted in high major offers. Illinois and Virginia Tech have offered the 6-foot-7 versatile forward for good reason. At his size and age, Ward is a scoring threat from all three levels. While he still needs to improve on his off the dribble game, he’s able to mix it up and keep his defender honest on any catch. He controls the glass, can push the pace himself and act as a shot disruptor around the rim on defense. Ward is the No. 1 ranked prospect in our 2025 rankings.