Hoop Mountain Fall Showcase Standouts: Part 1

On Saturday, September 8th, I attended the Hoop Mountain Fall Showcase at Mass Premier Courts in Foxborough, MA. Over 100 players came from all over New England and beyond. They did some skill work with college coaches from around the area and then got into 3v3 and 5v5 scrimmaging. Here are my part 1 standouts -- parts 2 and 3 will be coming out Monday and Tuesday!   If you'd like to read our articles but aren't currently subscribed, use the code "Hodin30" for 30% off any annual subscription!    Miller is the type of player you want running your offense. He's confident and controlled with the ball, and he has great decision-making instincts out of the pick and roll. He knows how to set up his defender and get them on his back, and he can make all of the passes once he gets his feet into the lane. He's also a good off-ball player as a result of his three-point shotmaking. Miller should absolutely find a mid-level D3 fit somewhere as a guy who can control the show. I could even see high level D3 if he continues to get stronger and improves his foot speed.     Much like Miller, Velyvis is quite comfortable running an offense. He's a really solid ball-handler with great change of pace and misdirection moves. He can also knock down the open three ball, although he's got to make his shot a bit quicker for the next level. He could also use some work in the weight room if he wants to play mid D3 college hoops. However, his skills are already there, and those are enough to earn him a low D3 spot.     Silveria is certainly an unconventional player — he has interesting movement patterns and a fascinating dribble package — but he gets it done offensively. He has great touch off the glass and is excellent at finishing with weird angles at the rim. He's also a capable three point shooter. The 6-foot-2 wing is only a junior, so he still has some potential growing room, both vertically and strength-wise. I would slot him as a mid level D3 guy right now.     Olinto is only entering his sophomore year, but he's got the skills and mind of a seasoned senior. He's tall and lanky with really solid craft and feel. He had a “smitty” spin move during the showcase that turned some heads, and he's also a capable finisher at the rim. Olinto can also hit the open three and consistently finds his teammates for on time, on target assists. Most impressive was Olino's mentality and effort, which never waned throughout the day. Very bright future ahead for Olinto.     Pimental was maybe the most physically imposing player at the showcase, and he's only entering his sophomore year. His defensive positioning, timing, effort and athleticism make him an excellent rim protector; he was blocking players of all sizes throughout the day. He also showed some impressive switchability against shorter, quicker guards on the perimeter. Pimental's offensive skills are still coming along, but he definitely had flashes of impressive, coordinated finishes at the hoop. Keep an eye on him moving forward — this will be a big year for him.

On Saturday, September 8th, I attended the Hoop Mountain Fall Showcase at Mass Premier Courts in Foxborough, MA. Over 100 players came from all over New England and beyond. They did some skill work with college coaches from around the area and then got into 3v3 and 5v5 scrimmaging. Here are my part 1 standouts -- parts 2 and 3 will be coming out Monday and Tuesday!