Staunch Perimeter Defenders from The Grind Region Finals
Mason Kay – P.L.U.T.O. Prospects – Palmer Ridge – 2025 Although not the most athletic athlete from this list, Kay’s defensive awareness and hustle deserves credit. Kay was arguably the most active rebounder on both ends for PLUTO at 6’1.…
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Continue ReadingMason Kay – P.L.U.T.O. Prospects – Palmer Ridge – 2025
Although not the most athletic athlete from this list, Kay’s defensive awareness and hustle deserves credit. Kay was arguably the most active rebounder on both ends for PLUTO at 6’1. Effort was far and away the leading cause for Kay’s success, where he was moving all over the place to secure the rock. Kay’s quick hands kept opposing playmakers honest through his tipped passes and assertiveness within the passing lanes. One on one, Kay can handle the majority of stronger guards while doing what he can to force quicker guards into help. Another noticeable strength came from his shooting off the catch, where he was especially effective on the wings.
Rico Hernandez – Arnold Elite – Churchill – 2024
Hernandez was electric in transition, both as a high energy defender and pure shooter off the catch. While only 5’11, his wiry frame was more than enough to take bumps from physical guards. He does great digging into their hips, once getting them off balance he stays poised in order to grab the steal. Off the catch, Hernandez is lights out due to his quick shot and confident shotmaking through contests.
Treylan Neal Treylan Neal 6'1" | CG Carroll | 2025 State LA – C&S Hoopstars – Carroll – 2025
At 6’1 Neal is a sturdy and athletic point guard who’s two-way impact kept the Hoopstars competitive versus some of the top 15u teams. Neal does a great job influencing opponents’ direction through his body positioning and active hands. He does not mind diving for loose balls or getting a hand into a live dribble either. Neal proved to be a capable help side shot blocker, where he could rise up and meet the ball after the shot had left the opponent’s hands. Neal’s offense shows some very intriguing flashes, especially as an off the dribble shooter. He plays a simple brand of ball, using jab steps and step backs to create just enough space for the jumper.
Fredrick Moore – Houston Ball Kings – Bridgeland – 2024
Moore has some of the best hustle among guards this class while standing at 5’6. Whether he is crashing the glass or diving for loose balls, Moore was essential to the Ball Kings’ success. Given his low center of gravity and stocky frame, Moore is more than capable taking bumps in traffic. Another key facet of his game comes from his perimeter shooting off the catch, where is incredibly active relocating for jumpers.
Fabian Stringfellow – C&S Hoopstars – Lincoln Prep – 2025
Although only roughly 5’7, Stringfellow allowed no easy buckets one on one due to his low center of gravity and incredibly quick feet. There are few defenders who retain their balance off an opposing dribble move, at least not quite like Stringfellow. Help defense is another area where he is very disciplined, always keeping his head on a swivel and being ready for the next rotation. The combo guard initially caught my eye due to his off the dribble shooting touch. He possesses a lightning quick shot off the catch while keeping that same form off the bounce. In one period versus the Oklahoma Takeover, Stringfellow scored three jumpers in four possessions.