High motor, constant mover and contributor, always finding a way to be productive through effort and energy. This kid was scorching hot. A pure shooter who shoots with range and fluidity, showing a quick trigger and concentration even against closeouts. He came off screens with confidence, lifting or curling to the catch with precise footwork that led to effortless elevation and clean energy transfer all the way through his release, making him a constant perimeter threat.

His wing three-point shooting was deadly and demoralizing, as he could catch and fire in an instant, making him the type of player you must account for at all times as a floor spacer. Against closeouts Cayden used a nifty pump fake side-step, getting defenders off their feet for a clean look at the rim, showing strong shot preparation and balance. As fluid and smooth of a release as they come, resulting in multiple bombs from outside, consistently stretching the defense.

Magic Basketball Club took home the 16U title. He’s a three-level scorer who thrives under pressure. He drilled big shots from beyond the arc, finished around the rim, and handled the ball when needed. His ability to space the floor makes him deadly, and he delivered clutch buckets when his team needed them most. Cayden plays winning basketball, and that was on display all weekend.

Cayden Hinderman-Close Cayden Hinderman-Close 5'9" | PG/SG Georgetown East View | 2027 TX was perhaps the most clutch guard on the floor in Magic Basketball Club ‘s 16u win over Texas Ballers Elite on Sunday afternoon. Cayden ran the offense with a set pace for his team to keep the advantage all game and was a shooting machine. Every time he had an open look at the basket, he would not hesitate to fire and probably hit about 5-6 three-point shots throughout the game. He also knew how to play good perimeter defense and not let the ballhandler get comfortable when in the half court setting.

Cayden Hinderman-Close Cayden Hinderman-Close 5'9" | PG/SG Georgetown East View | 2027 TX gave off glowing floor general energy. He took whatever the defense gave him and made the most out of it. His subtle use of ball fakes and jab steps opened the door for separation, whether to shoot, drive, or make the pass. He operated with a low center of gravity and solid upper body strength, drawing contact with intention and powering through it for tough, contested finishes that often ended in and-1 opportunities. A quick thinker and solid decision-maker, he spotted the open man whether attacking off the dribble or standing still.

Cayden set the tempo early for his Magic Basketball Club in his game versus the L2H Tigers. Cayden fed his teammates with precise passes collecting numerous assists. Far from one dimensional offensively, Cayden also knocked down three point shots and invaded the paint whenever he went into attack mode. I look forward to seeing Cayden compete against similar talent to see if he can continue impose his will.