UAA Session 1 Standouts – In State Prospects
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With shoe circuit basketball out in my back yard for the first time all season, it was mandatory that I got down to Rock Hill in order to see UAA Session 1 unfold. With many talented guys playing their first…
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Continue ReadingWith shoe circuit basketball out in my back yard for the first time all season, it was mandatory that I got down to Rock Hill in order to see UAA Session 1 unfold. With many talented guys playing their first games on the circuit for the grassroots season, we saw some new faces and were reacquainted with some older ones as well. Check out five guys from NC teams playing in the event that caught my eye and stood out in their performances.
Helgason is going to be a star sooner rather than later, and his welcome to the party moment on a national stage was Friday night, as he went for 26 points, 9 boards, and 3 blocks over Shoreshots Rio. He’s so fluid with his scoring movements, getting to his spots and hitting jumpers off the dribble really well with a high release point. Can shoot the pull-up mid range or triple with ease. Also has great length which allows him to block shots when he’s got separation from his matchup. Can see him being a rapid riser this summer and next year.
It’s good to see Nick Hailey Nick Hailey 6’6″ | SG Providence Day | 2025 State NC back on the scene after an ACL injury last year, and he’s showing everyone why he’ll be a recruitable prospect. Lefty combo guard/wing that is a pure scorer, really comfortable breaking down opponents or shooting the jumper over them. He didn’t make the shots he took when I saw him, but they were good looks and I’m confident he can make them based on past appearances. I saw him play composed in the middle of a zone yesterday, making reads and not getting sped up in trying to make the wrong play. Still has an athletic pop and burst to him that makes him dangerous when he has space and an ability to attack in transition or a double gap in the half-court.
Highlights
Slay was an all-around force for Team Curry 17’s as he posted a 17 point and 6 assist stat line in their first game, an OT loss against Pro One. He’s got great size at the guard spot, making it hard for defenders to contest him and getting more open looks because of his superior frame. Smooth looking jumper and shot it well when I saw him, I really like what his game has. Also a + intangibles guy for his effort and visible passion for the game whenever he’s on the floor.
Hammond came up just short of a double double in Team Charlotte ‘s Friday night contest against B. Maze Elite, posting 11 points and 9 rebounds while playing against a physical and talented frontcourt on the other side of the court. A physical guy himself, he’s not someone who’s going to play above the rim or dazzle athletically, but has good size and good footwork down on the low block. He’s got good touch and feel as well, not being sped up and trying to hit home runs, but looking to make the simple play. Solid defender and can hold his ground consistently.
Highlights
Nick Arnold Nick Arnold 5’11” | PG Lake Norman | 2026 State NC is making things click for Team Charlotte ‘s 16U group, attacking the interior, distributing the ball to his shooters, and continuing to operate as a defensive nightmare. He exploded for 20 in a win over Storm Basketball, and is really showing signs of breaking out and being a high level prospect. The defensive intensity and toughness he brings game in and out is unmatched, constantly hounding ball handlers, not being afraid to put his nose on the hardwood, and staying constantly active in order to force mistakes.