2029 New Additions Volume 1 Report

The class of 2029 is shaping up to be an exciting group, with a number of talented new additions ready to make their mark. This incoming class features a diverse mix of skill sets, athleticism, and potential, representing schools from across the region. As these young players join the ranks, their impact on the court will be closely watched by coaches, fans, and scouts alike, all eager to see how they contribute to their teams and develop over the coming years.    [player_tooltip player_id='2981285' first='Yusuf' last='Zaid'] is a talented 6-foot-2 prospect in the Class of 2029. Given the effortless way he scored the ball, it was easy to recognize his impact. Yusuf is a smooth, well-rounded guard with great IQ, size, and athleticism. He handles the ball well and can create for himself and others off the bounce. Yusuf is a willing playmaker but is arguably at his best when looking to fill it up as a scorer from all three levels. He's an active defender and rebounder. Next in his development process is working on getting stronger, as it would make him a more physically imposing player. Yusuf displayed a lot of ability with the ball in his hands. Consistently found ways to apply scoring pressure. Great at attacking in transition. Hits jumpers at a nice rate and sees the floor well as a passer. Competes defensively and rebounds well for his size/position.” Yusuf stood out as one of the incoming freshmen in the DMV area. A young productive player on display should be a key contributor for The Landon School this season.     He made a lasting impression through his nonstop motor, rugged defensive presence, and well-rounded array of skills. Brooks is a capable scorer from all levels but arguably found the most success when attacking the basket and finishing. He handles the ball well to create his own shot but can also find opportunities as a cutter. Brooks provided a very impactful defensive presence, showing the ability to contain his assignment and force turnovers at a strong rate. Next in his development process is working on improving his passing ability, as it would make him a more reliable creator. Brooks has a great attitude and several leadership qualities. He's able to push the tempo of the game with his consistent energy and effort. Outworks opponents to make hustle plays.” Brooks did a lot of things well during John Lucas Be-Elite camp in September and should be a useful piece at CH Flowers playing for his father.     [player_tooltip player_id='3072034' first='Mason' last='Watkins'] is a tough young point guard. He highlighted a dynamic identity with the IQ, pace, and creation skills to reliably run a team. Watkins is a poised, heady floor general with a lethal penetration sense. He possesses a tight handle and sharp vision, which allows him to reliably break down opponents and set up others. Watkins finishes really well, especially for his size, and can knock down jumpers at a respectable rate. He's also a terrific defender with great positioning and anticipation. Next, in his development process is working on his ability to move without the ball, as it would allow him to find more opportunities as a spot-up threat. Mason is a strong point guard who takes (and makes) high-level shots. Good shooter and penetrator. Has the ability to get to the paint and finishing at the basket. Plays good on-ball defense. Doesn't quit on possessions.” Watkins found success during his time at camp and should be a difference-maker for Aberdeen over the coming years.     Next, [player_tooltip player_id='3072041' first='James' last='Gordan'] is a 6-foot-2 prospect for the Concordia Prep program. He showcased a highly polished identity with the IQ, skillset, and defensive presence to stand out as a leader. Gordan creates extremely well off the dribble, displaying the ability to create for himself and others while filling it up as a scorer from all levels. He's a reliable penetrator and perimeter shooter who can dictate the action or find success without the ball. Gordan positions himself well to force turnovers defensively. Next in his development process is working on getting stronger, as it would make him a better finisher through contact. James is a very skilled player offensively. He keeps defenses off balance with changes of pace and shiftiness. He can create for himself and others. He displays a great feel for the game and can turn defense into offense when locked in. James has the potential to be a 3-level scorer.     Kam is a hustling young guard. In addition to his motor and skill, he consistently stood out through his ability to play bigger than his size. Milam is a versatile, high-motor wing with a reliable jumper, physical defensive presence, and quality rebounding instincts. He's able to guard multiple positions and find opportunities in transition. Kam is a solid wing player who possesses the ability to play on or off the ball. He can create for himself and others. He's a willing defender with the versatility to toggle between all positions on the court. Offensively, he has a nice midrange jumper and can shoot the three-pointer. Look for Kam to found success under the tutelage of coach Shackleford and the Friendship Tech Prep program over the next three years.

The class of 2029 is shaping up to be an exciting group, with a number of talented new additions ready to make their mark. This incoming class features a diverse mix of skill sets, athleticism, and potential, representing schools from across the region. As these young players join the ranks, their impact on the court will be closely watched by coaches, fans, and scouts alike, all eager to see how they contribute to their teams and develop over the coming years.