Central Jamboree: Evaluating the Event’s Top Talent PT 2

One of the best summer leagues currently running in Arizona, the Central Jamboree has been packed with talent and competitive matchups. With teams using this stretch to build chemistry, develop younger guys, and sharpen their approach heading into the upcoming season, the energy in the gym has been high. Through the early action, a number of players have already started to separate themselves. Here are some of the standouts that have caught my eye so far in the league.      He's legit! Gained noticeable explosiveness and is now attacking above the rim with ease. A blur with the ball in his hands, using change of speeds to keep defenders off balance and blow by them. Had the step-back middy working and showed the ability to finish over or around anyone in his path. Pulled off some acrobatic finishes that had him hanging in the air like time slowed down. Scored it confidently at all three levels and looked completely in control the entire time.     Scored it well at all three levels—whether it was downhill attacks, mid-range jumpers, or knocking down threes. Finished through contact at the rim and handled the ball with poise. Ran the offense when needed and showed he can play just as well off the ball. Versatile scorer who stayed in rhythm and made an impact in a variety of ways.     Had the three ball working—didn't matter if there was a hand in his face or not, he let it fly with confidence. Quick release and knocked down two big-time threes to cut the lead against Hamilton. Played with poise whether he was on or off the ball, and kept the defense honest with a solid handle. Always a threat to score, no matter how he was being guarded.     Played with great pace and a real sense of urgency—like he had something to prove every time down the floor. Attacked downhill with purpose, finishing over taller defenders and creating space by getting defenders on his hip. Showed strong buy-in on the defensive end and competed on every possession. He'll be a big-time on-ball defender for Willow this season—if there's a guard that needs to be slowed down, you can trust him to take on that challenge.     One of the most impressive on-ball defenders I saw all weekend. He's a tenacious presence on that end—slides well, stays attached, and takes real pride in locking up the opposing team's top option. You can tell he embraces those match ups and doesn't shy away from the challenge. His defensive motor, quick feet, and ability to disrupt rhythm set the tone for his team. A true stopper who consistently made life tough for whoever he was guarding.     Mr. Washington will once again be a key piece for this group, just like he was last season. He brings the edge and toughness that Mountain Pointe thrives on—always ready to mix it up and make things physical. A strong interior presence who embraces the dirty work, defends with grit, and makes life tough for opposing bigs. Whether he's guarding 4s or 5s, he doesn't let them get comfortable. Sets the tone with his physicality and willingness to do the little things that win games.     Looks even taller and stronger than before—an anchor in the paint who made his presence felt on both ends. Provided strong rim protection, altering or blocking shots around the basket and making it tough for anyone to finish inside. Rebounded the ball well and controlled the glass with physicality. He's a true problem down low, impacting the game without needing to score. The type of player who can walk away with just 4 points but still completely shift the game with his defense, rebounding, and interior presence.     Played at his own pace and never looked rushed. He was in rhythm the entire game—consistently got downhill, finishing over length with his inside hand or getting to the rim before defenders can react. Smooth and controlled with the ball, tough to stay in front of. Had the mid-range jumper going as well, which kept defenses guessing. A true gamer who knows how to take over when his team needs it.     A skilled scorer who can knock down shots off the catch or the dribble. Has a smooth, high-release three that he gets off quickly, and he's comfortable scoring it from the mid-range as well. Moves well without the ball and consistently puts himself in scoring positions. Makes smart decisions with the ball—whether it's the extension pass up the court or finding the open man in the half court. A good overall passer who plays within the flow and rarely forces it. Also rebounds well for his position.

One of the best summer leagues currently running in Arizona, the Central Jamboree has been packed with talent and competitive matchups. With teams using this stretch to build chemistry, develop younger guys, and sharpen their approach heading into the upcoming season, the energy in the gym has been high. Through the early action, a number of players have already started to separate themselves. Here are some of the standouts that have caught my eye so far in the league.