Top Performing Underclassmen at MLK What It Takes Showcase

The MLK What It Takes Showcase wasn't just a stage for upperclassmen to impress—the event also spotlighted a dynamic group of underclassmen who rose to the occasion. These talented young players demonstrated remarkable poise, skill, and competitive spirit, making a strong case for their future impact in high school basketball. Their performances highlighted both individual promise and the depth of emerging talent, offering a glimpse into the next wave of prospects ready to make their mark as they continue to develop and contribute to their teams.    Although other players on this roster tend to receive more attention, Khadir brings so much value to this group. He's a natural leader by example, setting the tone with his high IQ, unselfishness, and rugged defense at the point of attack. Khadir simply knows how to run a team. He calmly dictates the offense, breaks down defenders to touch the paint at a high volume, and consistently makes the right read with the ball in his hands. Khadir is a sharp playmaker with the ability to score as needed. He also forces turnovers and secures rebounds at a nice rate for his size/position. With continue improvement and maturity look for Khadir to be a college scholarship prospect.     It's easy to appreciate the intelligent, balanced way that Bontzolakes played on or off the ball. He's a crafty, unselfish combo guard who simply knows how to dictate the action as the primary creator. Bontzolakes does a terrific job of breaking down opponents and navigating where he wants off the bounce. He sees the floor extremely well so that he's able to evade extra defenders and quickly locate the best available shot on a regular basis. Bontzolakes consistently got others involved, but elevated his scoring as needed late in the game, scoring 16 points, knocking down three 3's. He also defended with energy and rebounded well for his size. This young man has a lot of potential to be a college level prospect with continued growth in his game.     In a contest against a notable opponent, Schneeberg arguably stood out as the main x-factor for Sidwell Friends. With the absence of [player_tooltip player_id='2194783' first='Judah' last='Washington'] from the lineup the 6-5 freshman guard was the primary ball handler. And he just simply knows how to run a team, and that certainly applies to Schneeberg. Coach Shackleford admitted he tried to speed him up. But couldn't do it. Elijah handles pressure well. He understands how to lead by example while providing a strong blend of penetration, playmaking, and perimeter shooting. Schneeberg dictates the action with IQ, poise, and pace as the main creator. He offers terrific balance between scoring and playmaking, showing the ability to consistently alter his approach based on team needs. Schneeberg is a tough, sturdy frame defender at the point of attack and anticipates well to force turnovers.     Ngalieu was the difference-maker in this contest. Not only does his production confirm this notion, but anyone who watched the game can attest to his nonstop impact on both ends of the floor. He completely led the charge in the first half, showing the ability to consistently rebound, push the break, and get downhill to finish or set up others. Ngalieu's high IQ, terrific motor, and versatile two-way identity make him a matchup problem for most opponents. His ability to play much bigger than his size allows him to defend multiple positions and outwork opponents on the glass. However, Ngalieu possesses the skillset to do basically everything on the floor. He can adapt to whatever role his team requires. It's difficult to say anything other than positives about Ngalieu from this contest. Finish the game with 10 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block.     I really liked what I saw overall from the lengthy and bouncy young prospect, as Kaleb really looked to assert himself throughout this game. Kaleb did a nice job in attacking by scoring over defenders, using his athleticism well, but also showing he can be an offensive option from multiple levels. Looked comfortable stroking two three pointers at the top of the key. Kaleb provided positive minutes as a scorer, rebounder, and as a defensive presence for his team.     Although the Friendship Tech Prep have a variety of intriguing pieces, Corey was arguably their most impressive performer in this weekend. He's a crafty, skilled big wing who can absolutely fill it up as a scorer from all levels. Sutton displays an offensive skill set. He's more than comfortable setting up the offense and creating for others but is arguably at his best when looking to fill it up. Sutton showed the ability to heat up quickly and effortlessly apply pressure as a penetrator, pull-up shooter, or threat from beyond the arc. He sees the floor well and can generate clean looks for himself off the bounce. Sutton is an intriguing young prospect to keep tabs on going forward. Given his steady growth, he has the tools and

The MLK What It Takes Showcase wasn't just a stage for upperclassmen to impress—the event also spotlighted a dynamic group of underclassmen who rose to the occasion. These talented young players demonstrated remarkable poise, skill, and competitive spirit, making a strong case for their future impact in high school basketball. Their performances highlighted both individual promise and the depth of emerging talent, offering a glimpse into the next wave of prospects ready to make their mark as they continue to develop and contribute to their teams.