NEA Prospects Competing at a High Level

In a region known for its grit, pride, and blue-collar basketball roots, a new wave of Northeast Arkansas athletes is brewing. Whether it's small-town gyms or summer showcases, NEA hoopers are showing they belong. Keep us updated on ALL prospects over on “X“ and “Instagram,” just tag @PrepHoops_AR & @VortexSportsArkansas.    TJ's game continues to evolve with purpose. His attention to detail stands out in the way he times cuts, sets angles, and reads defenders—especially in stagger screen action, where his improved shooting has added a new layer of threat. Whether attacking closeouts or pulling up off movement, TJ's confidence and mechanics are translating. Around the rim, he's a skilled and powerful finisher, combining body control with physicality to convert through contact and length.     Daley plays with a relentless motor and a mindset that refuses to back down. Every possession is a battle he's willing to win. That intensity fuels his offensive development, where he's becoming more confident and capable as a scorer. He's learning to pick his spots and attack with purpose. Whether it's a hard drive, a second-chance bucket, or a timely jumper, his production is starting to match his effort, and that's a dangerous combination.     Dew brings a high-level basketball IQ that shows up in every phase of the game. He sees plays develop, communicates on both ends, and makes the right read under pressure. Defensively, he's locked in, with active hands, sound positioning, and a willingness to take on tough assignments. What really sets him apart is his mature feel with the ball. He doesn't rush, doesn't force, he probes, and delivers.     Jaydin's quickness jumps off the floor—whether he's sliding defensively to cut off drives or bursting into gaps on offense. He plays with urgency and purpose, constantly hustling to make winning plays that don't always show up in the box score. Off the ball, he's intentional about creating space for teammates, setting timely screens, relocating with pace, and keeping the defense honest. His energy fuels possessions, and his ability to impact both ends makes him a glue guy with growing upside.     Kyler's growth as a shooter is coming along; his mechanics are cleaner, his confidence is rising, and he's becoming more willing to hunt open looks. He's also showing more comfort operating in space, whether it's relocating off the ball, slipping into soft spots, or making reads. What really stands out is his coachability. He listens, applies feedback, and competes with purpose. That mindset, paired with his evolving skill set, makes him a player you trust to keep improving.     KJ's three-point shooting continues to trend upward—his release and his footwork are more consistent, and he's stepping into shots with conviction. Whether spotting up or drifting into space, he's becoming a more reliable threat from deep. That growth is fueling his confidence across the board. You can see it in how he carries himself, how quickly he resets after a miss, and how willing he is to take big shots in rhythm.     Van is emerging as a confident slasher who knows how to finish. He's learning to navigate traffic with better control. Defensively, Van brings toughness and physicality—he's not afraid to body up, contest hard, and make opponents uncomfortable. That edge is valuable, but still raw. With some refinement in positioning and discipline, he has the tools to become a reliable two-way wing.     Larenz may be undersized, but he plays with precision. His form and mechanics, whether it's tightening his handle, sharpening his footwork, or staying consistent with his shot prep. That attention to detail pairs with a high-energy motor that keeps him active on both ends. He competes with urgency, communicates well, and brings a spark that elevates his team. Larenz doesn't just play hard; he works smart, and that combination is going to help him carve out his role.

In a region known for its grit, pride, and blue-collar basketball roots, a new wave of Northeast Arkansas athletes is brewing. Whether it's small-town gyms or summer showcases, NEA hoopers are showing they belong. Keep us updated on ALL prospects over on “X“ and “Instagram,” just tag @PrepHoops_AR & @VortexSportsArkansas.