Freshman Showcase Film Review: Buzz-Worthy Names – Part 2

Freshman Showcase Film Review: Buzz-Worthy Names &#8211; Part 2

Daniel Siehndel September 18, 2025 @ 02:58 PM

Talent from across Kansas and Missouri took the floor Sunday afternoon in Kansas City, as the Freshman Showcase featured a strong mix of established names and emerging prospects from the Class of 2029. Several well-regarded players lived up to expectations, while lesser-known prospects seized the opportunity to raise their stock and make a name for themselves.   After watching and analyzing the film from the camp, I've highlighted ten standout players who caught my eye, featured in this two-part series.   [player_tooltip player_id='2896263' first='Connor' last='Mullen'] | 5'11" Guard | Blue Valley | MOKAN   Mullen played with control, consistently creating separation and generating advantages for both himself and his teammates. He used an elusive handle to navigate defenders, showing the ability to probe in the half court and get into the paint. Once there, he made smart reads -- either finishing at the rim or kicking out to open shooters. Connor's poise with the ball and ability to manipulate the defense stood out, especially in tight spaces. On the other end, he showed a clear willingness to compete defensively, staying engaged on the perimeter and using his quickness to contain ball handlers.   [player_tooltip player_id='2917497' first='Junior' last='Hunter'] | 5'9" Guard | Wichita East | Team One of Us   Junior was the top perimeter defender throughout Sunday's showcase, showing intensity and applying on-ball pressure. He consistently disrupted opposing guards, turning defense into offense with deflections, steals, and transition opportunities. His quick-twitch athleticism and ability to change speeds made him a tough cover, especially when attacking downhill. Offensively, Hunter stood out with his elusiveness around the basket. He showed impressive body control and touch, converting tough finishes through traffic and around multiple defenders.   [player_tooltip player_id='2951093' first='Jayce' last='Acklin'] | 5'10" Guard | Pattonville | [program_tooltip program_id='2078454' first='KC' last='Run GMC']   Acklin stood out as a smooth, pass-first lead guard who played with poise and control. He consistently pushed the pace in transition, keeping pressure on the defense by advancing the ball quickly -- either by pitching it ahead or creating looks for teammates off the dribble. Jayce showed strong decision-making with the ball in his hands and didn't force the action, instead letting the game come to him. He also displayed a tight handle and a fluid left-handed shooting stroke, knocking down shots from the perimeter with confidence.   [player_tooltip player_id='2516886' first='Milton' last='Proctor III'] | 6'0" Wing | Christian Brothers College | F1rst Class   Milton made his presence felt and jumped off the screen throughout the day, impacting games without needing the ball in his hands. He consistently created opportunities through effort and feel, using his strong frame and athleticism to secure rebounds -- particularly on the offensive glass. Proctor sprinted the floor hard in transition and moved with purpose off the ball, putting himself in position to make plays. Defensively, he brought toughness and versatility, showing the ability to guard multiple positions and even hold his own in the paint.   [player_tooltip player_id='2925520' first='Elijah' last='Pendergrass'] | 6'7" Forward | Blue Valley North | MOKAN   Pendergrass stood out immediately with his physical presence, bringing impressive size and length to the forward position. He took up space effectively in the paint and made a consistent impact on both ends of the floor. Defensively, he looked ahead of the curve -- altering shots, disrupting plays inside, and anchoring the interior with smart positioning and timing. He also rebounded at a high level on both ends, consistently securing boards and creating second-chance opportunities. While his offensive game is still developing, he showed the ability to finish around the rim when opportunities presented themselves.

Talent from across Kansas and Missouri took the floor Sunday afternoon in Kansas City, as the Freshman Showcase featured a strong mix of established names and emerging prospects from the Class of 2029. Several well-regarded players lived up to expectations, while lesser-known prospects seized the opportunity to raise their stock and make a name for themselves.