Noble Classic Tip-Off: Underclassmen on the Rise

The Noble Classic brought together some of the region's most competitive programs and emerging talent. Several players used the spotlight to elevate their stock, proving they're ready to make serious noise this year. Here are the standouts who left a clear impression at the Noble Classic.    [player_tooltip player_id='2446638' first='Eden' last='Onwe'] played with a complete two-way versatility that made him one of the most impactful players on the court. He was everywhere making plays however and wherever he could. A true Swiss Army knife, playmaking, slashing, face-up scoring off the dribble, post scoring ability, and a stretch element. His blend of size, skill, feel, and basketball IQ helped him change every facet of the game from beginning to end.     [player_tooltip player_id='2558245' first='Garrison' last='Pitts'] was the type of lead guard who set the tone by upping the tempo of the game starting on the defensive end. First play of the game he came down the court, hit a between-the-legs stop dribble that sent his defender's momentum flying forward, and calmly pulled up to knock down the three. Throughout the game he showcased poise and high-level decision making, retreating to reset when nothing was there, passing and relocating, drifting into open pockets against a set defense, and manipulating the floor with mature pacing. Defensively, his quick and active hands were always in the cookie jar. Pitts iced the ball to one side of the floor, sat on driving angles, and swiped it away the moment the ball-handler tried to change directions. He controlled tempo on both ends like a true floor general.     Quick, shifty, and crafty, he twists and turns around defenders, snaking through traffic with body control that allows him to contort his reverse finishes from impossible angles. His ability to stay composed while changing speeds and directions makes him a tough cover at the point of attack.     [player_tooltip player_id='2399285' first='Ayden' last='McClinton'] played with phenomenal transition habits as he ran the floor with purpose following defensive possessions, resulting in several fastbreak scoring opportunities for him where he scored with explosion by himself and power against contact. The moment his team secured the rebound or forced a turnover, he was already sprinting into space, reading the floor and hunting early offense. Whether it was a leak-out, a rim-to-rim sprint, or pushing after a steal, he consistently flipped the defense into offense.     Silky smooth and easy shot release with deep range. Paul showed no trouble getting his jumper off over contests, whether he was fouled, off-balance, or fading, he kept the same quick-trigger mechanics. Pierce oozes high-level shot-making potential, and the fact that he's doing this as a 2030 prospect makes the projection even scarier.

The Noble Classic brought together some of the region's most competitive programs and emerging talent. Several players used the spotlight to elevate their stock, proving they're ready to make serious noise this year. Here are the standouts who left a clear impression at the Noble Classic.