2026 Houston Programs Shine with EYBL Session 4 Standouts

With the stakes rising and the competition intensifying at EYBL Session 4, several Houston-area prospects rose to the occasion, delivering high-level performances and proving they're built for the biggest stage in grassroots basketball. Whether they're rising seniors locking in college looks or underclassmen putting themselves firmly on the radar, these prospects displayed skill, toughness, and poise against elite competition. Their production wasn't just about stats, it was about presence, pace, and making winning plays. Here's a breakdown of the Houston-area recruits who made the most noise at EYBL Session 4.    [player_tooltip player_id='1500800' first='Elijah' last='Williams'] erupted for a remarkable 25-point performance against Houston Hoops, showcasing high-level scoring instincts and an elite understanding of floor spacing principles. He positioned himself perfectly on the wings and in the corners, always shot-ready with a quick, compact release off the catch. His shot preparation was sharp, stepping into his base with balance and minimal dip, allowing for rhythm and repeatability. Whether sprinting to the corner in transition, lifting out of the dunker's spot, or relocating off dribble penetration, he consistently made himself available with impeccable timing. One of the most underrated aspects of his arsenal was his handle — natural feel for the ball, with smooth between-the-legs rhythm dribbles and precise, controlled crossovers. He used subtle change-of-pace shifts to freeze defenders before attacking downhill with purpose.     [player_tooltip player_id='2453368' first='Jirehn' last='Mitchell'] dropped 13 points, including three three-pointers, and was most effective from the right wing. His go-to was a jab-step pull-up from deep, which he hit in rhythm on back-to-back possessions early in the game. He displayed confidence, range, and quick-trigger mechanics, elevating the offense whenever he touched the ball.     [player_tooltip player_id='2132725' first='Ahmad' last='Hudson'] played with an unbelievably high motor, creating defensive chaos with his ability to jump passing lanes and shoot the gaps. His hands never stopped working, always active, whether he was on the ball or in the passing lane. Hudson's defense turned into offense in a flash. In the open court, he combined speed with fluid strides before elevating and finishing above the rim with ease. His effort, quickness, and anticipation made him a two-way menace.     Arguably the best mid-range assassin of the event, Gibson dictated the pace early and often. He got to his spots with surgical precision, using low shoulder dips and aggressive angles to separate, then pulling up with composure and balance. His triple-threat game was textbook, jab steps, pump fakes, and head fakes that created just enough space to launch. He absorbed contact without breaking stride, showing tremendous poise. Defensively, Gibson battled through multiple screens and never gave up on a possession, making strong contests even when trailing. He finished with 22 points and 5 rebounds, flashing high-level isolation scoring and two-way potential.     [player_tooltip player_id='1750107' first='Jaxson' last='Thompson'] played with relentless energy and elite athletic pop. He displayed burst both laterally and downhill, consistently blowing past defenders with deceptive quickness. His ground coverage was elite, allowing him to make plays across the floor on both ends. Offensively, he attacked the glass with violence, finishing putback dunks off two feet thanks to his vertical explosiveness. Defensively, his presence was disruptive. He finished the game with 9 points, 8 rebounds, and a +28 plus-minus, the highest of the game, a true indicator of his impact beyond the box score.     Damian Jung attacked rebounds and blocks with violent verticality and timing. He met shots in the air as a weak-side rim protector, swatting layups off the glass and snatching rebounds at their apex. He also executed pick-and-seal actions at a high level, opening up driving lanes for his guards. His physicality, timing, and willingness to do the dirty work anchored his frontcourt presence.     Elijah Hayeems played with explosive speed and next-play awareness. He attacked with purpose, drawing help and dropping off pinpoint passes through traffic. His motor was unmatched, especially on 50/50 balls, where he out-hustled bigger players to secure possession. His effort directly contributed to his 11 rebounds (5 offensive) and 3 steals, making him one of the most disruptive and active guards on the floor.     [player_tooltip player_id='1583467' first='Aziz' last='Olajuwon'] proved to be a high-value glue guy — the type of player who elevates winning. His versatility, unselfishness, and quick decision-making stood out. He consistently made the right read, whether it was swinging the ball, dumping it off, or letting it fly when defenders gave him too much space. His shooting mechanics were clean and repeatable, and he wasted no time firing off the catch when defenders didn't put a hand up. Aziz embodied the intangible intangibles: team-first mindset, IQ, and efficiency.     Vital's 7 rebounds and 3 blocks were more than just stats, they were momentum-shifting plays. He's a true rim protector, excelling with verticality and defensive discipline. He consistently challenged shots with arms high, chest square, and elite timing. Whether helping from the weak side or defending straight up, Vital altered countless looks. His relentless motor and positioning made him a difference-maker, anchoring the paint with authority.

With the stakes rising and the competition intensifying at EYBL Session 4, several Houston-area prospects rose to the occasion, delivering high-level performances and proving they're built for the biggest stage in grassroots basketball. Whether they're rising seniors locking in college looks or underclassmen putting themselves firmly on the radar, these prospects displayed skill, toughness, and poise against elite competition. Their production wasn't just about stats, it was about presence, pace, and making winning plays. Here's a breakdown of the Houston-area recruits who made the most noise at EYBL Session 4.