Minden Holiday Classic Difference Makers

The Minden Holiday Classic showcased some of the top high school basketball teams from Louisiana, along with an Arkansas squad eager to make a name for itself across state lines. This bracket-style tournament offered a prime opportunity for teams to earn bragging rights in one of North Louisiana's most prestigious annual invitational events. Held over three days at multiple venues in Minden, the event culminated with an exciting Championship Game between the consistently strong Gibsland Coleman, a Class C powerhouse with multiple Top 28 and championship-level appearances, and Minden High School, who entered the game with a perfect 10-0 record and a roster filled with some of Prep Hoops' top-ranked players. In this article, we highlight standout players who showcased their elite skills throughout this intense competition.    [player_tooltip player_id='2581719' first='Darnell' last='Morris'] has firmly established himself as a college-level prospect with his outstanding play this season. A truly complete player, his strengths are difficult to pinpoint because he excels equally on both ends of the floor. Offensively, he is versatile and efficient, while defensively his impact often leads to winning outcomes. With a college-ready frame, elite athleticism, and an impressive basketball IQ, Morris stands out not just for his scoring ability but for his unselfishness and willingness to play the role of facilitator — a rare trait in an era where many players focus solely on highlights and individual achievements.   Morris has been a key contributor for his team, averaging 15 points, 8 rebounds, 5 steals, 3 assists, and 1 block per game throughout the tournament. His all-around game makes him a player to watch for college scouts. Recently, Morris received an offer from Centenary College, and with his continued development, it's likely that more offers will follow as the season progresses.     [player_tooltip player_id='1679407' first='Jaiden' last='Franklin'] is another standout on an already impressive Minden High School roster, which boasts talent at every position. Franklin is one of those rare players who can make an impact in multiple ways. As a three-level scorer, he thrives when driving downhill, consistently putting pressure on opposing defenses. He also possesses a college-ready build and plays with a level of poise that helps steady his teammates in high-pressure moments. Unfazed by the spotlight, Franklin isn't just an offensive weapon; he's a motivated defender who always competes on both ends of the floor.   Recently, Franklin received an offer from Centenary College, and it's easy to see why. His well-rounded game and elite basketball skills have caught the attention of scouts, and as he continues to develop, more will certainly take notice. During the tournament, Franklin averaged 13 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds, 3 steals, and 1 block per game, playing a pivotal role in Minden's Championship victory over the Gibsland-Coleman team. His ability to impact the game in so many facets makes him one of the top prospects to watch moving forward.     [player_tooltip player_id='2794988' first='Herman' last='Gill'], a 6'1 guard for Camden High School in Arkansas, quickly established himself as a player to watch during the tournament. A motivated and versatile scorer, Gill excels at putting points on the board from all areas of the court, with a particular knack for making an impact at the rim. While he is capable of scoring at all three levels, it's his ability to create turnovers and capitalize on them that truly sets him apart.   Gill applies relentless pressure on defense, forcing mistakes from opponents and converting those turnovers into fast-break opportunities. His athleticism allows him to finish through contact with ease, and he's also a reliable three-point shooter. Even when his perimeter shot isn't falling, Gill finds ways to contribute, consistently scoring at the basket and making his presence felt. His size and physicality allow him to overpower smaller guards, and he uses his strength to win key matchups.   For coaches looking for a high-upside player with a tenacious, aggressive mentality, Gill is definitely one to keep an eye on. His ability to impact the game in a variety of ways makes him a valuable asset and a rising prospect to watch across state lines.     Demarquis “Juicy” Durham is one of the most physically imposing players you'll find on the basketball court. Standing at 6'0" and weighing 200 pounds, he is a basketball machine — a true force on both ends of the floor. Durham plays with a bulldog mentality, bullying his way through defenders on offense and using his strength to dominate on defense as well.   While he has recently added a three-point shot to his game, it's not his primary weapon. Durham excels at getting to his spots and rising up for mid-range jumpers, though his true strength lies in his downhill attacking style. Once he's in motion, he becomes nearly unstoppable. His ability to finish through contact is unmatched, as he is often the strongest player on the court. On top of his physicality, Durham is an explosive athlete. A high flyer, he can dunk with ease off one or two feet and is always a lob threat.   As part of a balanced Gibsland Coleman team with several weapons, Durham is a key piece of their success. Currently, he averages 20 points, 9 rebounds, 2 steals, and 1 block per game. Given his multi-sport athleticism, it's highly likely that Durham will become a two-sport recruit, as he is equally impressive in track and field. With his combination of strength, skill, and athleticism, Durham is a player to watch and a prospect who could make an impact at the next level.     [player_tooltip player_id='2896549' first='Kristofer' last='Jackson'] was undoubtedly the most impressive big man at the Minden Classic, and what truly set him apart wasn't just his size, but his relentless energy and effort on both ends of the court. Jackson is a high-motor player who thrives in the paint, constantly working to secure position and create scoring opportunities. He's not a stretch player by any means; he earns his points inside, where he is active, demanding the ball, and looking to make an impact in the post.   Standing at a solid 6'5", with room to grow, Jackson combines strong footwork with excellent hands, making him a formidable presence in the paint. He has the ability to score in bunches, especially when he's hustling and outworking defenders for position. Whether it's grabbing offensive rebounds or securing 50/50 balls, Jackson's work ethic is unmatched. He is the kind of player who can put up 25 points and 15 rebounds without ever stepping outside the key.   With his all-state size and athleticism, Jackson is poised to be a primary scoring option for the Arcadia team this season. His commitment to working hard, playing with intensity, and dominating the paint makes him a player who can truly impact the game on both sides of the ball. As he continues to develop, Jackson will be a force to reckon with in Louisiana high school basketball.       In a tough matchup against Arcadia, [player_tooltip player_id='2407966' first='Cameron' last='Parker'] emerged as the secret weapon for the loaded Minden team, delivering a standout performance with 21 points. Parker proved to be the team's sniper, knocking down five three-pointers and helping Minden maintain control of the game despite Arcadia's efforts to close the scoring gap.   While Parker is more than capable of handling the ball and making smart, timely passes, it's his shooting ability that truly stands out. He's a cerebral player who understands the flow of the game and knows when to strike. On defense, Parker doesn't shy away from his responsibilities — he's committed and plays with intensity. Offensively, he is lethal from beyond the arc and will punish opponents who leave him open.   If you're looking for a pure shooter, [player_tooltip player_id='2407966' first='Cameron' last='Parker'] is a player to watch. He's a knockdown artist with the ability to change the course of a game with his shooting.    This wraps up the list of difference-makers from the Minden Holiday Classic, though it's worth noting that many other players also stood out throughout the event. Devin Burton, an undersized yet physically imposing post player for Lincoln Prep, showcased his ability to dominate inside despite his size. [player_tooltip player_id='1543668' first='Caleb' last='Evans'], a crafty and shifty point guard for Parkway, orchestrated his team's offense in a big win over Lincoln Prep, scoring 19 points and making key plays in a tough matchup. And of course, Demarquis Durham, the second half of the dynamic Gibsland Coleman duo, played a crucial role in his team's journey to the finals, helping power them through to the championship game.   While these players may not have received as much spotlight, their contributions were essential to their teams' success and deserving of recognition.

The Minden Holiday Classic showcased some of the top high school basketball teams from Louisiana, along with an Arkansas squad eager to make a name for itself across state lines. This bracket-style tournament offered a prime opportunity for teams to earn bragging rights in one of North Louisiana's most prestigious annual invitational events. Held over three days at multiple venues in Minden, the event culminated with an exciting Championship Game between the consistently strong Gibsland Coleman, a Class C powerhouse with multiple Top 28 and championship-level appearances, and Minden High School, who entered the game with a perfect 10-0 record and a roster filled with some of Prep Hoops' top-ranked players. In this article, we highlight standout players who showcased their elite skills throughout this intense competition.