Jr. EYBL Chicago: Pool H Superlatives
Hampton, VA — The grassroots basketball world began a new and historic chapter as the Nike Jr. Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) made its highly anticipated debut with the introduction of a “Super Regional” event held in the Tidewater region…
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Continue ReadingHampton, VA — The grassroots basketball world began a new and historic chapter as the Nike Jr. Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) made its highly anticipated debut with the introduction of a “Super Regional” event held in the Tidewater region of Virginia this past weekend. This gathering at the esteemed Boo Williams Sportsplex signified a new era in youth hoops and provided a platform to showcase much of North America’s future basketball stars.
Identical to my eight-part, Jr. EYBL Chicago feature, in these articles I’ll spotlight standout performers from each pool match-up at the respective event through a series of superlatives. Once again, it’s important to note that the first year of the Nike Jr. EYBL encompasses only eighth-grade teams, thus the included prospects are exclusively from the Class of 2028. Beginning with Pool A and culminating with the final group in Pool H, this sequence of exclusive recaps is intended to capture the essence of talent participating in this inaugural circuit.
Event Superlative Award: BEST ATHLETE
Heaven Chea
Heaven Chea
Heaven Chea’s performance at the Jr. EYBL Chicago Super Regional was nothing short of remarkable, earning him recognition across a multitude of superlative categories. As a key player for the LivOn Select squad, Chea showcased his versatility by stuffing the stat sheet with impressive numbers. Not only did he handle the ball with precision and create scoring opportunities for his teammates, but he also shouldered the scoring load with aplomb. Chea’s competitive spirit and alpha mentality were evident throughout the tournament, as he consistently rose to the occasion and led by example on both ends of the court. With his exceptional athleticism and well-rounded skill set, Chea undoubtedly established himself as a standout performer, leaving a lasting impression on spectators and opponents alike.
Event Superlative Award: BEST BALL-HANDLER
Jordan Evans
Jordan Evans
Ethen Pendergrass proved to be an indispensable asset in Darius Garland Elite’s triumphant journey at the NY2LA Swish ‘N Dish Tournament, playing a pivotal role in their success. His versatility was on full display as he seamlessly transitioned between both guard positions, showcasing his adaptability and basketball IQ. Not only did Pendergrass excel offensively, but he also made significant contributions on the defensive end. His ability to defend effectively and make pivotal stops guarding the ball underscored his defensive prowess and commitment to team success. Pendergrass’s multifaceted skill set and defensive tenacity undoubtedly played a crucial part in Darius Garland Elite’s championship run, solidifying his status as a key player to watch in the coming months.
Event Superlative Award: BEST DEFENDER
Trace Lopez
Trace Lopez
Trace Lopez’s size indeed gives him a significant advantage on the court, allowing him to assert dominance as a post presence on both ends of the floor. While many players his age excel primarily in one area, Lopez stands out for his advanced skills on the offensive end, where he displays a level of proficiency beyond his frontcourt counterparts. However, what’s equally impressive is Lopez’s commendable defensive effort, as evidenced by his performance at the Jr. EYBL Chicago Super Regional. His ability to impact the game on both offense and defense sets him apart from his peers in the Class of 2028, highlighting his potential to become a rare two-way threat at such a young age.
Event Superlative Award: BEST REBOUNDER
Zach Crummey
Zach Crummey
Zach Crummey emerged as a pleasant surprise at the Jr. EYBL Chicago Super Regional, making a significant impact with his relentless effort on the boards. His tenacity in competing for offensive rebounds not only created scoring opportunities for his team but also limited second-chance opportunities for opponents, demonstrating his understanding of the game’s nuances. Crummey’s combination of size, strength, and underrated athleticism sets him apart as a promising addition to the incoming freshmen class of frontcourt talent.
Event Superlative Award: BEST SCORER
Kainoa Patton
Kainoa Patton
Kainoa Patton is swiftly building a reputation on the West Coast, drawing attention with his highlight-worthy performances showcasing an impressive scoring repertoire and remarkable above-the-rim athleticism. At the Jr. EYBL Chicago Super Regional, Patton continued to impress, leading his team to an unbeaten record in pool play and a coveted appearance in the Platinum Bracket. His electrifying flashes of talent were impossible to ignore as he soared above defenders and unleashed a diverse scoring arsenal.
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