Momentum Builders: 16U Players Who Made It Happen

The 16U division at #PHSpringKickoff brought a high level of intensity, and a group of prospects separated themselves with consistent production and impact. Whether it was scoring in bunches, making winning plays, or setting the tone defensively, these players found ways to shift momentum in key stretches. With strong feel, confidence, and the ability to deliver when it mattered, this group proved they can influence games and elevate their teams in competitive settings.   Use code dev30 for 30% off and secure access as we're going through rankings and preparing you for grassroots season. You don't want to miss any of our scouting.     [player_tooltip player_id='2393334' first='Sam' last='Mixon'] kept popping in his games this weekend for DNA. He's active on the glass and goes right up with it, and was a bit too much on the block. He was backing defenders down for finishes, moving around and setting screens, and is a player who it could come together for. You can tell that he's still getting his feel for the teammates and trying to read what is happening out there, but he certainly has the intangibles and could be a glue guy and difference maker next season.     Phipps is a guy who we enjoy watching in grassroots as he checks off plenty of boxes that you have. He has good size, he's an assertive scorer, and impacts the game with his activity. He was getting to the mid-range pull-up and efficiently scoring from the low post. He had floaters, jumpers, and took over against smaller defenders and broke big guys down off the dribble for finishes as well. He was also showcasing his playmaking as he got others involved in games as well. We like his decision-making and how he operates with the ball in his hands and want more of it.     Diana was a player who stood out to me on the weekend, as he was a player through whom Colorado Destination Academy ran the offense through. He was aggressive with the ball in his hands and was attacking the defense. He was finishing at the basket, spinning away from defenders with counter moves, and even knocking down the 3-ball as well. He was constantly in motion, slashing for easy scoop layups and filling it up. He's a player to keep an eye on, and we want to see more of him moving forward.     Braylon is good. He is, and when he makes up his mind, there aren't any players who can slow him down. That was on display as it was great to see him at his grade level with Colorado Destination Academy, and he had a solid performance against one of the top 16U teams in the state. He has good size for a guard; he is fluid and was getting to his sweet spots. Braylon was finishing at the basket, grabbing boards, putting the ball on the ground, and starting the break. He's looking strong right now, and when that confidence catches up, and he is assertive each time out, is when I think everyone else will be on notice.     [player_tooltip player_id='2822528' first='Josiah' last='Gooding'] might be a small guard, but he plays with a chip on his shoulder and is a relentless defender who gets after it. He is constantly looking to make plays happen, and that was on display in their battle against Box State Legacy. He was getting out in transition. He also creatively finishes amongst the trees and is very active defensively. HoopTherapy's guard play is what keeps them competitive, as they can score in bunches. He handles the ball well, competes defensively, and is a player to watch a bit more of.

The 16U division at #PHSpringKickoff brought a high level of intensity, and a group of prospects separated themselves with consistent production and impact. Whether it was scoring in bunches, making winning plays, or setting the tone defensively, these players found ways to shift momentum in key stretches. With strong feel, confidence, and the ability to deliver when it mattered, this group proved they can influence games and elevate their teams in competitive settings.