Skilled Lead Ballhandlers from 15U
These guards all bring notable skill as lead ball handlers, both from a skill and decisionmaking perspective. Within their own skill sets, each of these prospects made winning plays that secured positive records for their requisite programs during this past…
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Continue ReadingThese guards all bring notable skill as lead ball handlers, both from a skill and decisionmaking perspective. Within their own skill sets, each of these prospects made winning plays that secured positive records for their requisite programs during this past weekend’s event.
Jacob Garcia – D1 El Paso Matrix – Chapin (TX) – 2026
Garcia played a pivotal role in El Paso Matrix’s 15U championship run at this event, through his incredible ball handling ability and pure grit. The 5’10 guard had the ball on string, quite possibly the most skilled ball handler at this event. Garcia got anywhere he wanted, on multiple occasions being set up for isolations, given how deep his bag is off the dribble. Through dramatic crossovers and especially refined footwork, the guard was incredibly tough to keep out of the paint. Another facet of his game was hustle and relentlessness on the glass, a common trait among El Paso Matrix players. His hustle made an immense difference on the offensive glass by putting pressure on the opponents at all times. Even if the opponent got the rebound, best believe he will pick up full court and hound the opponents. There were few players with more heart than Garcia, truly embodying what makes this game so great.
Peyton West – Mokan 2026 – Blue Valley West (KS) – 2027
West is a strong guard who got wherever needed on the offensive end, doing well to out muscle opponents while getting to the rim. Although stronger than the vast majority of opposing backcourt opponents, West brought notable finesse scoring to the table. Either through one legged floaters or mid-air readjustments at the rim, West clearly has quite a few tools at his disposal. Complemented by a consistent free throw form and effective jumper off the catch, West is a notably well rounded perimeter prospect. Defensively, West held his own versus both backcourt positions, proving strong enough to take bumps without being moved around.
Matthew Samson – IBA 15U – Grandview – 2026
Samson controlled the pace for IBA, rarely rushing his opportunities at hand. The lead guard had the ball on a string going either direction, proving adept getting into the paint through this clear strength. The guard proved capable of changing speeds when necessary, finding any possible way to fool the defense. While inside the arc, Samson could get to his floater in an instant or step into the jumper when left open. On multiple occasions, the incoming sophomore created space through wide crossovers or other dramatic moves, keeping the defense on their heels at all times.
Brandon Matchem – Hardwood Evolution – Rock Canyon – 2027
Matchem was a knockdown shooter from all over the perimeter, possessing a quick jumper that proved dynamic under various situations. The incoming freshman guard is a capable scorer off the bounce, flowing into pull-up jumpers and floaters when available. He was often a valuable floor spacer from the wings and corners, being shot ready off the catch. Alongside his shotmaking ability, Matchem is a very skilled ball handler under pressure, not fazed by multiple opponents.