Under-the-Radar Standouts at the CBG Tip-Off

The CBG Tip-Off brought together a strong mix of talent across the region. Some familiar names delivered as expected. However, several players quietly put together impactful weekends that deserve attention. These weren't just stat-sheet fillers — they were difference-makers, competitors, and guys who showed real next-level traits. Here are a few under-the-radar standouts who made their presence felt.    [player_tooltip player_id='3275771' first='Jovin' last='Johnson'] started strong this spring. He played a major role in [program_tooltip program_id='3424568' first='Team' last='Loaded Gold']'s 6-0 start. This was heading into the first session of the 3SSB Gold Circuit. Averaging 8 points and 9 rebounds per game, Johnson's impact went far beyond the numbers.   At 6'7”, his versatility is what jumps out immediately. He's comfortable guarding multiple positions, switching onto guards on the perimeter while still holding his own inside. Offensively, he plays above the rim, finishes through contact, and continues to improve as a decision-maker. His passing stood out most this weekend. Johnson consistently made the right reads. He kept the ball moving.   Every high-level team needs a glue guy, and Johnson fills that role at a high level. He does a little bit of everything, competes on every possession, and brings consistency to a talented roster.     Trenton Smalling was the most productive scorer on the floor for [program_tooltip program_id='3424568' first='Team' last='Loaded Gold'] throughout the weekend. He scored in an extremely efficient manner. Smalling averaged 17 points and 8 rebounds per game. He shot 62% from the field and 63% from three. This performance showed just how dangerous he can be.   What makes him unique is his ability to score without dominating the ball. He thrives within the flow of the offense — cutting, running in transition, and capitalizing on opportunities as they come. Add in his athleticism and ability to play above the rim, and he becomes a tough cover for opposing defenses.   Smalling also impacts the game defensively and on the glass, which makes him even more valuable. His combination of efficiency, athleticism, and motor makes him a clear scholarship-level prospect. He should be firmly on college coaches' radars heading into the live periods.     [player_tooltip player_id='2624544' first='Chris' last='Lamm'] continues to establish himself as one of the more reliable and impactful point guards in the 2027 class. Over the weekend, he averaged 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, showcasing his ability to control the game on both ends of the floor.   Lamm excels at handling pressure and getting downhill, consistently putting defenders in tough spots. He finishes well through contact and plays with great pace, allowing him to get to his spots effectively. His ability to create for others while still being a scoring threat makes him a true floor general.   Defensively, he sets the tone. Lamm applies full-court pressure, disrupts opposing guards, and brings a level of toughness that fuels his team. One standout moment of the weekend was his 11-0 run. He achieved this feat on his own against Team Loaded 757. This completely shifted momentum and helped secure a commanding win.   As one of the team captains, his leadership and production continue to stand out. He's a name college coaches should continue tracking closely.     Jonah Henderson was a bright spot for Team Loaded 757 and showed why he's a prospect worth monitoring moving forward. At 6'7”, he brings a strong physical presence along with length and athleticism that immediately passes the eye test.   He rebounded well against a tough [program_tooltip program_id='3424568' first='Team' last='Loaded Gold'] frontcourt and brought consistent energy on both ends. Henderson plays with toughness. He isn't afraid to mix it up inside. He also shows flashes of versatility on the wing.   There's clear upside here. As he continues to develop his skillset, Henderson has the tools to become a high-level prospect out of the 757.     [player_tooltip player_id='2960264' first='RJ' last='Mickleberry'] wasted no time making an impact, dropping 18 points in his first matchup against Higher Level. He's a natural scorer who understands how to get to his spots and produce efficiently.   Mickleberry is a strong ball handler who can create his own shot and score at all three levels. He knocks down shots from beyond the arc. He also attacks the rim. In doing so, he finds ways to put pressure on defenses. He also competes on the defensive end, using his length to disrupt passing lanes and guard opposing scorers.   He's one of those players who quietly produces but consistently affects the game. Expect his stock to continue rising this spring and summer.     Tabren Hawkins proved to be one of the more dangerous scoring guards at the event. An elite shooter with deep range, Hawkins has the ability to change a game quickly if he gets going.   He does a great job creating his own shot and attacking downhill, finishing well around the rim even through contact. But what separates him is his perimeter shooting — he's capable of heating up fast and stretching defenses.   Even with [program_tooltip program_id='3424568' first='Team' last='Loaded Gold'] focusing defensively on Hawkins, he still displayed his scoring ability. He also demonstrated his overall impact. Combine that with his defensive effort, and it's easy to see the value he brings.   He's the type of player who can fit into a lot of college systems and make an immediate impact.    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Final Thoughts</h2>   The CBG Tip-Off once again proved that there's no shortage of talent in the region. Some names are already well-known. Players like these continue to build their case as prospects to watch. They gain attention heading into the live period.   Each of these standouts brought something different to the table. Whether it's versatility, efficiency, toughness, or scoring ability, they all left a lasting impression.

The CBG Tip-Off brought together a strong mix of talent across the region. Some familiar names delivered as expected. However, several players quietly put together impactful weekends that deserve attention. These weren't just stat-sheet fillers — they were difference-makers, competitors, and guys who showed real next-level traits. Here are a few under-the-radar standouts who made their presence felt.