Midwest Melee: Day 3 Guard Standouts

Elgin, Illinois – On May 19th – 21st, programs across the country faced off at The Centre of Elgin, and competed at an extremely high level!

The players in the building all had their heart set on showing just why they work so hard on their game. Each game had highlight worthy plays, and players looking to prove their team was worthy of a Championship Title. Although there can only be one champion, there was no shortage of intensity throughout the entire weekend in each division. This event had one of if not the best talent thus far on the NEXT circuit. Below, I highlighted the “Day 3: Guard Standouts” that I was able to watch at “Midwest Melee”.

Brady Bowman |G| All Heart | All Heart

Bowman made an impact while playing up a grade for All Heart 2027. He did not back down to the pressure with the ball in his hands, nor did he refrain from applying it on opponents. He stamped himself as a floor general who drove and kicked to teammates which led to fluid offense. His patience and poise shined bright on Day 3 of the Midwest Melee. 

Luke Howery |G| College Bound Elite

Howery could not be left open at all for a deep College Bound Elite team. His motor and willingness to fill the lanes in transition allowed him to get open looks and he rarely let them go to waste. The sniper from range needed to be accounted for once he crossed half court. Most impressive was his decision making when ran off the line, he was able to create for himself and others being deemed “the shooter” by many of his opponents over the weekend.

Riley McQueen |G| All Heart 

McQueen was a major spark as an energy leader for All Heart 2027. His approach to on-ball defense was reliable atop full court pressure. The combo guard scored timely baskets using his tight handle. Most impressive was his crafty finishes and absorbing contact.

Christian Williams |G| College Bound Elite 

Williams is a tough as nails guard that helped his team to the championship game. He made countless plays on the ball in their half court trap, and was able to absorb contact on his drives when turning defense to offense. He carries with him a next level motor and heart that makes for winning basketball. 

Keshaun Manney |G| Team Illinois 

Manney had a two-way impact for Team Illinois over the weekend and was a major contributor to their run to the championship title game. His energy on defense caused steals and deflections which gave his team points in transition. Outside of fast paced finishes at the rim, he also poured in some momentum shifting corner threes. Most impressive was his ability to control the speed of the game when at the helm.