UAA Session I — Highlighting the Midwest’s Top Impact Players

The Under Armour Association circuit tipped off this weekend in Kansas City, bringing together some of the most talented players and programs from across the country. The Midwest was well represented, with a number of players putting together strong performances over the course of the weekend. I'll take a closer look at some of the names I have near the top of the region, along with a few players who look poised for a big, productive spring and summer.    Hands down one of the better bigs in attendance all weekend. Long and active, Stasys played with a motor on both ends and rebounded well outside of his area, consistently getting his hands on 50/50 balls. Ed had a knack for finding openings on the interior and finished effectively with either hand, even through contact. He also put consistent pressure on the rim as a lob threat, showing he could go up and get it while finishing well above the rim. On the defensive end, he showed good mobility, protected the rim, and did a solid job walling up inside — forcing opponents to finish over the top and settle for contested looks.     Castor was aggressive and assertive, especially early in games — setting the feel for how these contests would be played. His quickness and ability to create off the bounce allowed him to get downhill and to the rim, where he finished around rotations. He looked most comfortable in isolation, consistently creating situations where defenders couldn't keep him in front. Jordan also showed he could shoot it from the perimeter, relying on his consistent stroke from long range while flashing promise in the in-between game. Playing with an edge, he brought energy and competitiveness, leading his squad on both ends.     There's not much more that needs to be said about Branham. Whether operating with the ball in his hands or moving off it, he showed he can do just about anything offensively over the weekend. Even while seeing a variety of defensive looks and facing aggressive one-on-one defenders, he consistently made adjustments within the flow of the game to find openings and make plays as contests wore on. His off-ball movement stood out, as he frequently used screens and dribble handoffs to create space and get his quick release off. He also drew contact at a high rate and consistently capitalized at the free throw line. Chase's slashing and finishing may have been the most impressive part of his game, as he elevated and finished strong at the rim, often off two feet — just another layer that will continue to pay dividends moving forward.     Thomas' physical frame served him well this weekend, as one of the better put-together overall prospects, allowing him to find success using his size and strength. He flashed shot-blocking ability and rebounding instincts, while also using his strength effectively on the defensive end across different matchups. Offensively, his perimeter game was his biggest asset, as he knocked down multiple long-range triples — some coming in crunch time. He also looked comfortable creating in the midrange or attacking off the wing. He continues to show a dynamic ability to play multiple positions and fill different roles on both ends of the floor.     It doesn't take long to notice Akins, with his combination of athleticism, long frame, and fluid movement. His activity level around the rim continued to stand out over the weekend, as he consistently found openings on the offensive glass. Matthew was also valuable as a floor spacer, knocking down shots from deep and forcing defenses to make decisions about how to defend him. Add in what he was able to do handling the basketball — providing a driving threat as well as a face-up option on the wing — and it's easy to see how his game translates to the next level as a plug-and-play, versatile piece.     Fyfe may have had one of the top weekends overall, especially among lead guards in the region. His floor game was sound — he handled pressure well and pushed the break effectively, whether getting to the rim himself or facilitating and finding others. Aiden showed a strong feel and was extremely efficient shooting the ball, with the ability to heat up from deep and knock down multiple long-range threes. He also brought stability on the defensive end with how he contained ball handlers. He never forced the action and consistently did a good job keeping the ball moving, making the extra pass against scrambling defenses.

The Under Armour Association circuit tipped off this weekend in Kansas City, bringing together some of the most talented players and programs from across the country. The Midwest was well represented, with a number of players putting together strong performances over the course of the weekend. I'll take a closer look at some of the names I have near the top of the region, along with a few players who look poised for a big, productive spring and summer.