Prep Hoops Next Nationals: 14U Top Lead Guards

All roads lead to the beautiful Hyvee Arena in Kansas City. Teams from across the country showed up and showed out. Safe to say teams were cooking and competing at a high level regardless of the bracket. The energy on the sideline and in the stands were second to none in an electric environment, teams fought tooth and nail for Championship honors. It was hard to highlight only a few out of so many impressive prospects competing this weekend but here are my “Top Guards” who competed in Prep Hoops Nationals.

Will Verkuilen | Next Level Grind Elite

Verkuilen played a major role in their championship run at nationals. He was the calming presence at the helm for Next Level Grind. His versatility and high IQ makes him hard to prepare against. He wields a selflessness paired with supreme confidence when his team needs him the most. A star in his role, his production allowed others to rise to the occasion. Next Level Grind’s offense ran with fluidity with him on the floor. The versatile guard finds a way to win whether he is scoring or facilitating. His understanding of the game is next level ready.

Archie Weatherspoon | College Bound Elite

Weatherspoon V used his size well to see the floor a great deal. Very comfortable in fast paced games. He took on the responsibility of getting everyone involved in transition, knowing when to advance the ball and when to attack himself. Around the basket he has next level touch and the ability to hang in the air and adjust around contesting defenders. Most impressive was his ability to fill the stat sheet in all the categories, and be a catalyst without the ball in his hands.

Isaiah Fox | Wisconsin Elite

Fox stood out all weekend at Prep Hoops Next Nationals. Atop his highlight plays over the weekend was his ability to find the open man. Fox’s willingness to share the spotlight kept opponents honest on the defensive end and allowed him to be productive attacking the basket well with either hand. Shifty and strong at the lead guard position, when played for the drive he was able to raise and fire from range a great deal. Most impressive was his energy on the defensive end, picking up the ball full court and ending possessions on the glass. 

Avant Riley | Kansas Players

Riley was able to get anywhere he wanted on the floor all weekend, his patience and ability to use his body allowed him to set the table for the Kansas Players. Riley was very productive in the pick and roll. Slowing the game down and using the advantage, Riley was able to get to his floater and find teammates in space. Against drop coverage the heady guard confidently shot off the dribble at a high clip. The poised guard was a tough cover when he caught fire and his production led to a deep run at Prep Hoops Next Nationals.

Jayvon Irby | OPS 

Irby made plays on both sides of the ball on a consistent basis and led the way with his energy. As quick as they come the OPS guard was a menace on defense causing opponents to be sped up and made ill advised decisions. OPS was able to play fast and score in a hurry with Irby pressuring the ball handler in pressing situations. Irby wields a combination of strength and agility that sets him apart from other guards. He was able to play through contact and shoot a great clip from the free throw line.