The EXPO: MVPs and Honorable Mentions

In this article, we will highlight the Dual MVP selections along with honorable mentions. With such an abundance of talent in one place, choosing just one MVP was impossible; instead, we're spreading the accolades and recognizing more players who excelled at the showcase. Our MVPs are both new to the PrepHoops platform and are poised to make a big splash in the next ranking cycle. These players have proven their ability to perform under pressure and have bright futures ahead.    [player_tooltip player_id='2919651' first='Tyrie' last='Spencer'] is one part of our Dual MVP Selections 2026 MVP for The Expo. Spencer plays the game with poise and pace like a college player. He has the size, skill, athleticism, basketball IQ and plays with efficiency that only comes with experience and reps. He did not miss many shots on the day, and just when you thought he showed everything he is capable of, he showed something else. He was highly discussed at the camp and is one one of those players that was just a surprise at the camp considering he is unranked. I saw him in Monroe and was impressed with his game, and when he showed up he continued to prove his is a top player in the state. He does everything at an elite level. He is a next level player and could easily be considered a hidden gem in Louisiana Basketball.     New to the Louisiana basketball scene, Tyshawn Gipson left no doubt after the expo that everyone will soon be asking, “Who is 613?” The 6'4” point guard comes to Louisiana via the Netherlands, bringing an impressive international background that is evident in his fundamental skill set. At his first major competitive showcase, he didn't disappoint. He did everything you want from a guard, and he did it with style. His ball handling on a string, using his imagination to enjoy every moment with the ball. He is an elite shooter from anywhere on the court and gets to the rim with ease and can finish with his left, right or with a dunk. His international upbringing didn't prevent him from showing up as Louisiana's new "dog," engaging in some healthy trash talk to keep the games interesting. Gipson held his own against some of the top players in the state, never missing a beat, and capped off the showcase with a game-winning shot in overtime. Gipson is our Co-MVP for the EXPO.     Colbert earns his spot as an honorable mention because of his ability to just keep scoring the ball. He was competitive on both sides, but the thing that stood out was he just kept getting buckets. He was getting to the rim and finishing through contact. He was walking up and knocking down three point shots, he was hitting mid range shots and he was knocking them down with ease. A special scorer has to be recognized because when the lights were bright he stepped into them with confidence. He is a constant competitor that is ready to step into the spotlight. Look for a big season from Colbert.     Thompson earned his position as an Honorable Mention for being another surprise of the showcase. For me it was just his elite mid range shot and glaring athleticism. He was intense, but never out of control. He has the skills to be the next notable player coming out of St. Augustine. In addition to his shooting ability, he locked in on defense just like his offense. Working hard on every play will never go unnoticed, and he was locked in all day. He is truly deserving of this additional recognition.     Bridges and his performance was just a testament of hard work and dedication. In a showcase setting sometimes it is difficult to pick for acknowledgements, but Bridges wins the hard work award. Coaches always talk about effort, and never giving up on a play. Doing all the little things like boxing out, running the floor, rebounding, making the extra pass and playing with good energy. Brody was always able to effect the game because he locked in on the details of the game. He truly deserves his Honorable Mention Selection.    Be on the lookout for the final round of player evaluations from The Expo coming in the following days.

In this article, we will highlight the Dual MVP selections along with honorable mentions. With such an abundance of talent in one place, choosing just one MVP was impossible; instead, we're spreading the accolades and recognizing more players who excelled at the showcase. Our MVPs are both new to the PrepHoops platform and are poised to make a big splash in the next ranking cycle. These players have proven their ability to perform under pressure and have bright futures ahead.