Made Hoops: Prospects at West Mania

April 12 | Cerritos, California   When it comes to elite competition, national exposure, and a stage built for breakout talent—West Mania, powered by @EHACircuit x @madehoops, stands alone. Coverage provided on April 12, this event brought together a staggering level of talent, from high-profile programs to rising grassroots squads, all competing in what has become the premier non-live showcase in the country.   Prep Hoops scout Joey Velasquez was in the gym with a sharp eye—not for the big names, but for the under-the-radar prospects ready to make a name for themselves. This write-up is dedicated to those hidden gems who didn't just show up—they showed out.   (In no specific order)   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   [player_tooltip player_id='2646533' first='Taiwo' last='Daramola'] | F | 6'8" | Bakersfield Christian HS | 2027   Taiwo continues to show improvement in his overall skills. He is growing into his frame and finishing at the rim with aggressive dunks for Team CPSA during the opening game at West Mania. Taiwo showed flashes of a superior post-up game that is still developing. He is a solid free throw shooter and runs the floor at a high level, which creates easy scoring opportunities for himself around the rim and allows guards to play at a faster pace during transition. Team CPSA has an under-the-radar recruit on their roster in Taiwo.   Julian Cunningham | C | 6'11 | Palisades HS | 2027   Julian demonstrated all the qualities expected of a standout player for his CPSA team. He covered significant ground on both offense and defense, showcasing his strong frame. His rebounding skills were impressive, and his basketball IQ was evident in various situations throughout the game. Additionally, he effectively communicated while playing help-side defense. Julian is definitely a player to watch this summer, especially for those seeking coachable big men with upside potential.   [player_tooltip player_id='2484289' first='Devaughn' last='Dorrough'] | W/F | 6'7" | Monterey Trail HS | 2028   Devaughn, coming off an impressive Team USA mini camp, carried his momentum into the West Mania event with growing confidence. With his long and lanky frame, he also has significant growth potential. He runs the floor effectively and knows how to position himself to reach his preferred scoring spots on the offensive end for Team CPSA. In game one, he showcased improved footwork and finished consistently at the rim, starting the game with a hot hand. As a result, his stock has risen in the 2028 class.   Junior County | W | 6'6" | Wasatch Academy HS | 2026   Junior showcased his shooting skills during the opening game for his Utah Prospects team. He demonstrated a strong understanding of the game, moving fluidly in transition and making the game tempo seem slow. His passing and scoring abilities were impressive. He knows when to play physically against his opponents, especially when the competition intensifies. As an underrated defender, he excels at making great reads while on defense, particularly with the ball in his hands. His high basketball IQ sets him apart. College recruiters should definitely have his name on their recruiting boards for his position.   Dean Rueckart | W/F | 6'8 | Tempview HS | 2026   Dean is an athletic high-flyer who excels in transition and excels in a fast-paced game for his Utah Prospects team. Dean's strong motor is a key asset, allowing him to consistently finish at the rim and attack the paint. He handles the ball confidently, even in high-pressure defensive situations. He is definitely a player to watch this summer, regardless of the level.   [player_tooltip player_id='1702962' first='Andre' last='Gomez'] | Combo | 6'5" | Grant HS | 2026   Andre is one of the top recruits playing for Team Arsenal at the West Mania event. He possesses a strong mindset and is a smooth left-handed player who can be as physical as anyone on both sides of the court. He has the ability to score and defend at three levels. He needs to continue showcasing his effort for four quarters. Andre demonstrated flashes of a high skill level both off the ball and while handling it. When in attack mode, he is capable of getting significant paint touches, which helps him create opportunities for himself and his teammates.   Jeremias Killebrew | W | 6'4" | Bakersfield Christian HS | 2027   Jeremias continues to demonstrate growth in his game. His athleticism as a wing player enables him to guard his position effectively, and in pick-and-roll situations, his long frame helps him defend against taller opponents. He is a solid rebounder and capable of scoring from various areas on the court. With his athletic ability, he has a high upside for further development.     Joey Velasquez is a West Coast scout and evaluator for prephoops.com. He can be reached at Exposure@youthproelite.org. Don't forget to follow him on X: <a href="http://www.twitter.com/ronmflores">@</a>Hoopswhisperer

April 12 | Cerritos, California