Under the Radar No More: Risers Who Stood Out at the Tuneup

Several prospects used the Colorado Tuneup to make a strong first impression. These were players who weren't widely known entering the weekend but turned heads with their production, energy, and feel for the game. With standout performances and undeniable impact, they've officially put their names on the map and should be tracked moving forward.    Tomlinson played a key role in Premier's gritty win on Day 1, doing a bit of everything on the floor. When pressure mounted, he stepped up handling traps, finishing through contact, and making big plays. He hit timely shots, stayed composed, and kept his team steady with mature decision-making. Even when they were losing big, he still played hard and tried to keep the team's energy up with strong play, diving for loose balls and trying to get stops. Jack is a poised guard who thrives under pressure and showed leadership beyond the stat sheet despite being the team's best player.     Wolf impressed with his physicality and high motor, scoring efficiently at the rim with floaters, putbacks, and transition finishes. Defensively, he made his mark, and that is where he will be the biggest difference-maker. He navigates screens, defends well on-ball, and rotates well in help which covered some holes. He will have to be more of that if he wants to be THE guy as the lead slipped away in games the moment that he got off the floor. That's impact. His strength and anticipation stand out, showing traits of a multi-sport athlete. He's also a tone-setter on both ends. Wolf is a name to track this season and has my attention.     Smith showed flashes of high-IQ play and great feel for the game. Though raw, he made advanced reads, directed teammates, and delivered precise passes. He knocked down threes, ran the baseline effectively, and created easy scoring chances. His length, patience, and ability to process plays quickly suggest long-term upside. If he stays locked in, the game will continue to slow down for him, and he will be a player to watch for the next couple of years. Anarchy has a special player; just want him to realize that with his aggressiveness and taking over in games.     Hassan is a confident 6'4" guard/wing who showcased a complete scoring package. He shot it well from deep, attacked closeouts, and created both for himself and others. His timing on cuts and ability to play off the ball stood out. He's versatile and tough, and his ability to be a microwave scorer is what separates him as he plays with purpose. He was one of the weekend's most complete performers, and now he just has to consistently take over in games for everyone else to know that.     Culbreath emerged as a standout throughout the event with pure effort and hustle. He was a defensive pest as he was jumping passing lanes, applying pressure, and turning steals into layups. Off the ball, he moved with purpose, always hunting impact plays. He brought contagious energy and made winning plays that don't always show up in the box score. Culbreath proved he's a young name worth tracking and kept his team in games with his play.

Several prospects used the Colorado Tuneup to make a strong first impression. These were players who weren't widely known entering the weekend but turned heads with their production, energy, and feel for the game. With standout performances and undeniable impact, they've officially put their names on the map and should be tracked moving forward.