Texas Circuit Championships: 16U Breakout Prospects

Grant Nash is a bucket getter offensively and tenacious defensively. He is consistently the first to the floor for 50/50 balls. Nash excels at driving and setting himself up going left, using his quick feet, elusiveness, and creative handles to be a threatening scorer and shot creator.     In the open floor, Valrick Halliburton can turn on the jets and blow by a team of defenders. His great lateral quickness makes him one of the best defenders in attendance, sticking to his man so tightly that he easily gets over screens, not allowing the ball handler any space to operate effectively.     Ayden Lara is a spot-up three-point shooter with deep range, letting it fly from well beyond college range right out of the gate. He boasts consistent mechanics and a sharp release, making him a reliable scoring threat from long distance.     Casen Fitts is a dynamic athlete who excels as a rebounder and defensive anchor, consistently challenging layups and limiting second-chance shot opportunities. He often proved to be the toughest and hardest-working player on the court, willing to do the dirty work for the ball. Fitts also showcased his ability to get above the rim and throw down contested slam dunks, demonstrating his strength, ability to absorb contact, and impressive hops.     Kristian Payne showed game changing effectiveness on both ends as a high motor leaper who was quick off his feet with the reach to alter shots and grab rebounds out of nowhere. He showed off his ability to jump out of the gym on several occasions, but really impressed when he exploded for a two-handed power dunk through a bit of traffic.