Freshman Showcase Film Review: Buzz-Worthy Names – Part 1

Freshman Showcase Film Review: Buzz-Worthy Names &#8211; Part 1

Daniel Siehndel September 17, 2025 @ 02:56 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='2962651' first='Sidney' last='Paulding'] | 6'0" Wing | Lee's Summit North | Gamespeed Family   Sidney was the top offensive performer of the day, displaying a dynamic and well-rounded skill set that made him a constant threat on the floor. He shot the ball well from the perimeter, knocking down shots with consistency, and used a quick first step to attack closeouts and get downhill. In transition, Paulding was especially effective. Whether pushing the ball himself or filling the lane, he used his athleticism, pace, and feel for the game to put pressure on the defense and finish strong at the rim. Defensively, he made just as much of an impact -- rebounding well for his position and taking on the challenge of defending some of the other top offensive players.   [player_tooltip player_id='2382452' first='Jovan' last='Welch'] | 6'0" Guard | Wichita East | Team One of Us   Jovan was one of the more intriguing guards at the showcase, displaying a high basketball IQ and well-rounded skill set on both ends of the floor. Offensively, he showed a confident handle and the ability to create off the dribble, slashing into the lane and finishing through contact in a variety of ways around the rim. His feel for spacing and timing allowed him to take advantage of driving lanes and make quick decisions under pressure. Welch also made a noticeable impact on the glass, using his athleticism and aggression to generate extra possessions with offensive rebounds.   [player_tooltip player_id='2918995' first='Jacob' last='Schlutow'] | 6'5" Forward | Blue Springs | [program_tooltip program_id='2400647' first='KC' last='Sixers Supreme']   Jacob was easily the most productive frontcourt player of the day, with his length and offensive skill set standing out. He consistently established deep position inside, finishing around the rim with touch and control -- using both hands effectively. His footwork and patience in the paint allowed him to operate efficiently, even against size or pressure. What set Jacob apart was not just his scoring ability, but his unselfish approach. He showed great vision for a big, routinely finding open teammates out of the post and keeping the ball moving. Defensively, he used his length to alter shots and control the glass, contributing as both a rebounder and shot blocker.   [player_tooltip player_id='2703199' first='Matthew' last='Oyewole'] | 6'4" Wing | Southern Boone | MOKAN   Matthew brought a unique blend of size, length, and confidence to the floor, showing flashes of offensive versatility throughout the day. He stood out with his ability to stretch the floor, knocking down shots from deep with a smooth, repeatable stroke. Oyewole also displayed an effective mid-range game, using a variety of touch shots -- floaters, pull-ups, and soft runners -- to score in different ways. His calm demeanor and skill level allowed him to play within the flow of the game while still finding opportunities to impact play.   [player_tooltip player_id='2917496' first='Trace' last='Dold'] | 6'2" Wing | Kapaun Mt. Carmel | Team One of Us   Trace was another long, athletic wing who played well in transition, running the floor hard and positioning himself well for easy finishes. His off-ball movement was also impressive -- cutting with purpose and finding gaps in the defense to create scoring opportunities. Around the basket, he showed the ability to finish through contact with either hand, demonstrating toughness and touch under pressure. Dold also contributed on the offensive glass, using his length and motor to secure rebounds and generate second-chance opportunities. His activity, effort, and feel for the game allowed him to make a consistent impact without needing the ball in his hands.

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.