Stomping Grounds: 16U Watchlist

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Prep Hoops Circuit heads back to Sioux Falls this weekend for Stomping Grounds, and the Sanford Pentagon provides an incredible stage for hoops. It's one of the best facilities in the Midwest, and we're excited to spend three straight days taking in great matchups, talented players, and nonstop action.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 16U division is stacked with talented prospects from across the region. From skilled guards and versatile wings to physical forwards and emerging young prospects, there will be no shortage of talent on display throughout the weekend.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://x.com/DaksHoops" id="https://x.com/DaksHoops">@DaksHoops</a> will be on the sidelines all weekend evaluating talent, taking in the action, and keeping tabs on the players who could separate themselves at Stomping Grounds. Below, we highlight some of the top 16U names to watch heading into the weekend at the Sanford Pentagon.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1944058,"width":"275px","height":"auto","aspectRatio":"1.5239405140548439","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"media"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/05/stompinggrounds-crop-1036x680-1683121012.jpg"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/05/stompinggrounds-crop-1036x680-1683121012.jpg?w=800" alt="" class="wp-image-1944058" style="aspect-ratio:1.5239405140548439;width:275px;height:auto" /></a></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1441779,"width":"275px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"media"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/04/PlayerWatchlistNDSD.jpg"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/04/PlayerWatchlistNDSD.jpg?w=865" alt="" class="wp-image-1441779" style="width:275px;height:auto" /></a></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"style":{"typography":{"fontSize":"30px"}}} --> <p style="font-size:30px"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">16U</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2442422"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a07693ebdcd3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='2442422' first='Ethan' last='Plamp'] was an absolute beast last weekend at Battle at the Lakes, putting up big numbers and consistently making his presence felt around the basket. Now heading back to his home state, it'll be exciting to see if the Kernal big man can put together another dominant weekend. Plamp plays with strength, aggression, and nonstop persistence. He has a natural nose for the ball and consistently creates extra opportunities with his activity and toughness. Around the hoop, Ethan is extremely efficient and does a great job finishing through traffic and physicality. His motor and interior production make him a player to watch this weekend.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2445795"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a07693ebdd52"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Gavin is a player who really impressed a couple of weeks ago at Brawl For The Ball and looks poised for a strong weekend. The lanky shooter has become a serious threat from beyond the arc with his ability to consistently knock down shots at a high clip. Glover is a double-digit scorer who gets great lift on his jumper with a high, soft release that makes his shot difficult to contest. He also moves well without the ball, finds open spots naturally, and knows how to create clean looks for himself within the offense. Expect Gavin to be one of the top 16U snipers to watch this weekend.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2965503"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a07693ebdd9a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Larson is a player to watch this weekend, even while playing up in the 16U division, because he has the tools and mindset to make an impact against older competition. Larson plays with a high basketball IQ, understands the game, and consistently does the little things that help teams win. One of the biggest strengths in Jayd's game is his versatility. He can comfortably play the 3, 4, or 5, depending on the situation and adapts well to whatever role is needed. Larson competes with grit, toughness, and determination every time he steps on the floor, while also bringing consistent shooting ability to the offensive end. His coachability, feel for the game, and all-around versatility make him a very intriguing player moving forward.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2408493"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a070fcf28f0f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Mr. Burch is coming off back-to-back 25+ point performances at Battle at the Lakes and has been one of the hottest scorers this spring. Through four tournaments, Mari has proven that if defenses don't put their best defender on him, it could be a long game for the opposing squad. Burch is a serious athlete with quickness, explosiveness, and the ability to create space whenever he wants. He can score in bunches and continues to make a strong case as a major Stock Riser heading into the next rankings update. Expect him to be one of the top players to watch again this weekend.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2447427"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a075774410ea"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Lincoln is a player to watch because of the intriguing length and versatility he brings to the floor. He consistently makes positive plays and shows a strong feel for the game, especially in the pick-and-roll, where he creates opportunities for himself and teammates. Cook is also opportunistic on the offensive glass, turning hustle plays into second-chance points. Around the basket, he finishes effectively and does a nice job attacking the middle of zone defenses. With his size, activity, and growing skill set, Lincoln's stock looks poised to keep rising moving forward.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2725801"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a07693ebde10"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Smith is a player to watch because this kid is an absolute Warrior on the court. Miles brings intriguing upside with his athleticism and activity level, impacting the game on both ends. He's a capable scorer who finishes well even in congested paint, using his athleticism, body control, and quick reactions around the basket. Defensively, Miles shows strong upside with his ability to make fast reads, react quickly, and create hustle plays that swing momentum. His nonstop motor, athletic tools, and toughness make him a fun and impactful player to watch.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2407814"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a070fcf28f4c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='2407814' first='Naviah' last='Friday-Johnson'] has been one of the most improved players for Pack this spring and is quickly becoming a name to know moving forward. After hitting a major growth spurt over the past six months, Naviah looks like a baller on the rise and continues to put together strong performances on the court. He's playing very good basketball right now and is definitely a player to watch in Sioux Falls this weekend. Friday-Johnson is an opportunistic player who impacts the game in a variety of ways, using his activity, feel, and versatility to help his team on both ends of the floor. With his recent development and upward trajectory, there's a lot to be excited about with his future.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2839997"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a07577441161"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Rhonin is a player to watch because of the toughness, versatility, and nonstop energy he brings every time he steps on the floor. Even at 6'0”, Bjorem plays much bigger than his listed height thanks to his strength, physicality, and willingness to compete in every area of the game. He's a high-effort player who thrives in full-contact basketball and impacts the game in a variety of ways. Bjorem can score from all three levels, pushes the pace effectively in transition, and also contributes as a passer and rebounder. His motor, toughness, and all-around game make him a player who consistently finds ways to help his team win.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2433759"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a07693ebde9d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Sebit is a lead guard who put together an impressive showing at Brawl For The Ball and looks like a player ready for another strong weekend in SF. He handles the ball with confidence, plays with shiftiness off the bounce, and does a great job getting downhill as a slasher. Samson is a true playmaker who sets up teammates well, makes the simple read when needed, but also has the vision to thread difficult passes through traffic. He's capable from three-point range, reliable at the free-throw line, and consistently makes winning plays throughout the game. Defensively, Samson brings energy and scrappiness with pesky on-ball pressure that helps him impact both ends of the floor.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2413972"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a07693ebdefa"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Huso's experience from the high school season should give him a strong veteran presence on the floor this weekend. He's a smart, poised player who understands the game well and consistently makes solid decisions with the ball in his hands. Taven is extremely coachable and has the ability to knock down shots from all over the court at any moment. He handles pressure very well, stays composed in tight situations, and has the skill to work himself out of jams with precision and control. Taven is also a very effective shifty/off-ball shooter who knows how to create space and make defenses pay. His IQ, shooting ability, and calm approach make him a player to watch this weekend.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:image {"id":3554001,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"media"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/03/circuit-logo_b3ebdf80-crop-2021x1327-1773331424.webp"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/03/circuit-logo_b3ebdf80-crop-2021x1327-1773331424.webp?w=800" alt="" class="wp-image-3554001" /></a></figure> <!-- /wp:image -->