KJ Ford Spring Classic Players To Watch

The KJ Ford Spring Classic is bringing teams from across the state to Rio Rancho this weekend. With a strong lineup of local talent set to take the floor, this is shaping up to be a must-watch event. The players on this list have been performing at a high level this AAU season and are looking to keep that momentum going. Expect highlight plays on both ends of the court.    [player_tooltip player_id='2813944' first='Eric' last='Hofmann'] has been a catalyst for his team this AAU season. A big-framed forward, he uses his body well in the paint and embraces playing bully ball against smaller defenders. When he's not working on the block, look for Eric to knock down mid-range jump shots an area where he's already found consistent success and will look to continue this weekend.   Eric is a force on the boards, attacking rebounds on both ends of the floor. Once he secures it, he quickly makes the smart outlet pass to ignite transition opportunities. His rebounding and passing are key to his team's up-tempo style, making him an important piece of their overall game plan.     [player_tooltip player_id='3579873' first='Brandon' last='Brito'] has been electric for his program so far this season. He uses his lightning-quick release to get shots off from anywhere on the floor, making him a constant three-point threat. Expect him to keep hunting those looks this weekend he only needs a small window to let it fly, which forces defenses to play him tight.   Once defenders start to overplay his shot, Brandon makes them pay by using his ball-handling and passing to create opportunities for himself and his teammates. His ability to spark offensive runs with his shooting has been a major asset, and his basketball IQ continues to improve game by game. Look for him to showcase that growth this weekend.     [player_tooltip player_id='3044883' first='Jeremiah' last='Belin'] is a quiet leader for both his AAU and school teams. He's the type of player who does all the little things at a high level. With strong positioning and a relentless approach to rebounding, Jeremiah gives his team a real edge on the boards and makes them tough to out-rebound.   He's capable of putting up a double-double without needing to be ball-dominant, impacting the game in efficient ways. He also has a soft touch at the free-throw line, so if teams choose to foul him, he has the ability to make them pay. Look for Jeremiah to represent Northern New Mexico well and showcase his all-around game this weekend.     [player_tooltip player_id='2706557' first='Noah' last='Lovato'] is a force for both his AAU and school teams. Look for him to showcase his size and athleticism this weekend, especially with the added boost of playing at home in his own gym. Opponents can't afford to let Noah get comfortable because he has made teams pay all season long on his home floor.   Noah is confident with his back to the basket and brings versatility as a wing, creating mismatches across the floor. A Rio Rancho Rams starter, he averaged 10 points and 4.5 rebounds per game this past season. Expect Noah to put together big performances this weekend and use the summer as a breakout stretch, proving he can be a dominant presence on the boards and a go-to scoring option.     [player_tooltip player_id='2216708' first='Michael' last='Marr'] is an all-gas, no-brakes type of player. The tougher the competition, the harder he plays never backing down from a challenge. While some may see his size as a disadvantage, Michael consistently proves otherwise.   He uses his size effectively to get paint touches and create opportunities for his team. His ability to drive is a major asset, whether he's finishing at the rim or facilitating for others. Offensively, he's a weapon any coach would want. When defenses start to sag off, he can knock down the three to keep them honest and off balance.   Michael's presence on the floor opens up lanes for his teammates and creates scoring opportunities with his willingness to move the ball and make the right play. Look for him to continue his growth this summer and put together strong performances this weekend.

The KJ Ford Spring Classic is bringing teams from across the state to Rio Rancho this weekend. With a strong lineup of local talent set to take the floor, this is shaping up to be a must-watch event. The players on this list have been performing at a high level this AAU season and are looking to keep that momentum going. Expect highlight plays on both ends of the court.