Elite 80 Workout Session I Standouts

The Elite 80 Workout came to Capital University in Columbus, Ohio for 2026, 2027, JUCO and college prospects to be seen by a handful of college programs with instruction from college coaches, high school coaches and trainers from across central Ohio. In this article I'll break down my standout performers from Session I.    The lone 2027 prospect competing in the opening session, Hardy still stood out despite being up against older competition all afternoon. Hitting some smooth mid-range jumpers, Hardy was a patient attacker off the dribble and used his body to shield defenders away and shoot over smaller defenders. Also knocking down a 3-pointer on the wing and hitting a floater in the 5 on 5 action, Hardy was confident with the ball in his hands. After averaging nine points and seven rebounds a contest for Cedarville as a Junior, I expect Hardy to clear double-figures easily next season.     One of the most productive players in the Columbus City League this winter, Diedalis was one of the top athletes at the workout and had a sweet dunk off a backdoor cut in the 3 on 3 portion to help set the tone for his afternoon. While I knew Diedalis could score and rebound, he made some really nice passes to cutters this afternoon for easy looks. A priority recruit for numerous small college programs across the state, it'll be interesting to see where Diedalis chooses to play next season.     The point guard for Northland had a great senior season for the Vikings as they fell just short in a district final in Division II. While his perimeter shot wasn't falling today, James made excellent decisions as a passer, as his team moved the ball better than most groups I saw today. I also liked his willingness to pick up full-court and pressure opposing ball handlers, forcing a couple turnovers.     I got to see Chesapeake play last season but unfortunately missed out on the Panthers this year after they fell in the district title game to Eastern Brown. Perkins was one of their top players and impressed as a below the rim finisher who played off two feet and under control. I also thought he had a handful of nice possessions as an on-ball defender, forcing tough looks. Nice to see a small town prospect stand out and make his long commute to Columbus worthwhile.     The Westerville Central guard hit a handful of perimeter shots throughout the day, looking like one of the best shooters in the gym. Finishing well on the left side of the rim with either hand, Gooden was crafty with how he avoided shot blockers on layups. The honorable mention all-OCC guard also used his quick hands for a couple of steals in the five-on-five action.     Maybe the biggest sleeper I discovered all day, Harris is an extremely fluid athlete who could play above the rim, run the floor and finish through traffic. Still needs some time developing as a decision maker and improving his awareness on the court but there is a ton to work with long term for Harris who multiple college coaches told me they were impressed with him on Sunday. Very rare to find a sleeper like Harris at this stage in the calendar for graduating seniors but he certainly checks that box.     A prospect I just saw one week ago, Davis just finished his high school career with Ryle as they fell in the 9th region championship. A wing who hits shots off the catch, played under control and used his length and frame to rebound and defend, Davis was one of the more productive guys I saw all day and showed why he was recently added to Kentucky's 2026 rankings, slotting in just outside of the top 100.

The Elite 80 Workout came to Capital University in Columbus, Ohio for 2026, 2027, JUCO and college prospects to be seen by a handful of college programs with instruction from college coaches, high school coaches and trainers from across central Ohio. In this article I'll break down my standout performers from Session I.