Smartball Real 16 Forward Standouts

The Real 16 at the Smartball Classic saw the level of competition pick up as teams battled for a spot in the quarterfinals. With the stakes raised, several prospects stepped up and made their presence felt on both ends of the floor. Here is a closer look at some of the players who stood out during the Round of 16.    A 31 point, 13 rebound statline highlighted just how dominant Wilson was in their round of 16 matchup. The springy 6-foot-8 forward plays exceptionally hard and few players in the city are able to handle his speed and athleticism combined. A breakout year is inbound     A new name to the Scanlan roster this season- the sophomore forward is wasting little time making an impact. He is a good rebounder and great finisher around the basket, giving Scanlan some depth and balance in the process. If the Bronx program is going to make a charge up the standings, expect the sophomore big to have a hand in things.     Olowoyo is going to be another important big for a team looking to capture a City Championship. The senior big man hopes to go out on top one last time with his fellow 2027s as the PSAL 3A champions. While he might not be the biggest offensive threat, his size inside, motor and rebounding will all be essential.     One of my favorite NYC prospects still flying under the relative radar, Faulkner is poised to lead a resurgent St. Peter's unit. A bouncy 6-foot-7 forward, he is at his best when attacking the paint and had a handful of impressive finishes at the rim, as well as rebounded at a high rate. As he gets used to his new teammates, he should go back to showcasing some of his burgeoning perimeter skillset as well.     Another guy who will be important in the role he plays, Boev looks capable of giving Nazareth some sort of paint presence this season- something they'll need in order to contend. The big man is still a bit of a project, but shows good timing as a a shot blocker and the willingness to embrace his role as a true big.     One of the most naturally talented players regardless of class in New Jersey, Kuminga appears to have taken his game to a different level in recent months. He has lost some of the baby fat, and become quicker and more capable of creating off the dribble without sacrificing his strength advantage. The end result is a physically punishing sophomore wings who looks ready to be one of the top players in the state.     The Guinean forward is a powerful and surprisingly crafty finisher at the rim that attacks every rebound as though as it is his and is willing to set strong screens. Playing on a St. Benedict's roster that will feature great guard play, Conde figures to be the target as a lob threat all year long. Look for college programs to jump in with him in the coming year.     Barry has steadily improved over the last ten months and will have a real claim to top 2027 in the City when this season is all said and done. The 6-foot-9 forward plays with a chip on his shoulder, grabbing rebounds and finishing or blocking shots and being a physical presence. College programs will take an increased interest in him after seeing his ability to space the floor as well.

The Real 16 at the Smartball Classic saw the level of competition pick up as teams battled for a spot in the quarterfinals. With the stakes raised, several prospects stepped up and made their presence felt on both ends of the floor. Here is a closer look at some of the players who stood out during the Round of 16.