Great Lakes Finals: Defensive Playmakers and Off-Ball Movers

With the Great Lakes Finals taking place over Memorial Day weekend, we had the opportunity to see an abundance of talent come through Wintrust Sports Complex, with teams traveling in from across the Midwest and beyond. Previously, we covered standouts from the state of Wisconsin along with some of the top shooters from the weekend. Now, the focus shifts toward prospects across multiple levels who left their mark through defensive activity, off-ball movement, hustle plays, and overall impact away from the spotlight of the ball.    It's encouraging to see how Reese is able to fill multiple roles within a game. During the high school season at Glenbard South, he operates as the primary option, but on a talented [program_tooltip program_id='2076459' first='Breakaway' last=''] grassroots roster, his role shifts — and he embraces it well. While he may not be the primary ball-handler or scorer, his unselfishness, constant movement, spacing, and willingness to create opportunities for teammates make him an integral piece. Reese still shows the ability to attack the rim with strength when opportunities arise, finish through contact, and knock down the occasional three. Defensively, he doesn't shy away from guarding opposing teams' top players or bigger matchups, bringing grit and hustle on that end of the floor. Smaller colleges have already started reaching out, and more interest should continue to come with his development.     First game Sunday morning, Rush was an energetic and impactful presence for 2 Face Elite. Crashed the glass well for offensive rebounds and followed with quick finishes around the rim, including a well-timed pump fake that froze defenders. Made himself consistently available through cut actions, especially along the baseline, where he repeatedly found soft spots in the defense. Plays with patience when operating near the rim and knows when to go up for his shot. His activity and off-ball presence helped 2 Face Elite finish 4-1 on the weekend and reach the 17U Silver Championship.     Stallings is a competitor for [program_tooltip program_id='2076459' first='Breakaway' last=''] 16U Gold. He has the ability to collapse a defense and create advantages in the halfcourt through his movement. Attacks closeouts with a rip-through to get to the rim and shows improved finishing through contact. Active off the ball, relocating after kick-outs to stay available as a scoring option. Also impacts the game on the glass, securing offensive rebounds and crashing with intent to create extra possessions. Plays with aggression, initiates contact, and earns trips to the free-throw line through his physical approach.     Johnson stands out as a defensive focal point for Geek Squad 17U. Shows strong anticipation, timing passes well to generate steals that lead to transition scoring or quick offensive setups. Active hands disrupt opposing offenses, creating tips and throwing opponents out of rhythm. Impacts the game through the small but important details, including solid box-out technique and fundamental defensive positioning. Also shows awareness as a cutter and passer, and makes hustle plays that help build momentum.     Younger prospect out of Ohio with promising athleticism and IQ. Rebounds with toughness and physicality, using his frame to clear space and rise for the board. Shows good awareness in pick-and-roll situations, where he can receive passes and deliver quick interior assists. Runs the floor well in transition and finishes above the rim, showing bounce on several one-handed dunks. Active defensively with long arms and presence in gaps, creating deflections, jumping passing lanes, and turning defense into offense.

With the Great Lakes Finals taking place over Memorial Day weekend, we had the opportunity to see an abundance of talent come through Wintrust Sports Complex, with teams traveling in from across the Midwest and beyond. Previously, we covered standouts from the state of Wisconsin along with some of the top shooters from the weekend. Now, the focus shifts toward prospects across multiple levels who left their mark through defensive activity, off-ball movement, hustle plays, and overall impact away from the spotlight of the ball.