Spencer’s Takes: Compass Fall League Standouts

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I ([player_tooltip player_id='2716510' first='Spencer' last='Goldberg']) was able to make it out to the <strong>AZ Compass Fall League</strong>. I was only able to watch 2 games; they happened to be both of the Bella Vista teams. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Here are some of the Bella Vista players who stood out to me in these couple of games.&nbsp;</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2211004' first='Rokiem' last='Green'] – Bella Vista (Grind Session)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2211004' first='Rokiem' last='Green'] looked outstanding in Bella Vista's match-up against Millennium, one of the top AIA schools in AZ<strong>.</strong> Coming off a summer with AZ Unity, his game clearly took another step forward. Green showed the ability to create off the dribble for himself and get a quality shot whenever he wanted, a skill that kept the defense on its heels. He was on fire from beyond the arc, knocking down six three-pointers and completely shifting the momentum in Bella Vista's favor. Beyond his perimeter shooting, he also impressed on the glass, fighting for rebounds and creating multiple second-chance opportunities. With his improved versatility and confidence, Green looks poised for a breakout season with Bella Vista.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2211006' first='Jordan' last='Charles'] – Bella Vista (Grind Session)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Jordan completely took over in Bella Vista's tight win against Millennium High School, proving why he is going to be one of the most dangerous guards in the Grind Session this season. After competing with Canada's U19 team and AZ Unity over the summer, his stock has skyrocketed, and college scouts have taken notice, resulting in eight new D1 offers. On the court, Jordan backed up the hype. His lightning-quick first step consistently put defenders on their heels, allowing him to get anywhere he wanted. Despite being an undersized guard, his finishing ability around the rim stood out, and if defenders aren't careful, he'll rise up and finish with authority. What will separate him this season is his growth as a playmaker. He's excelling at making advanced reads, setting up teammates, and keeping defenses guessing. Returning for his second Grind Session season, Jordan has all the tools to push himself into MVP conversations.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='994689' first='Noah' last='George'] – Bella Vista (Grind Session)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Noah's game continues to make noticeable strides, as he looked impressive for Bella Vista in the AZ Compass fall league action. He came out strong, finding rhythm inside the arc and showcasing his go-to weapon: the midrange pull-up. Once he gets to his spot, his high elevation makes the shot nearly unguardable. On the defensive end, Noah's toughness stands out; his relentless effort creates turnovers and easy scoring opportunities for not only himself, but also his teammates. He thrives on taking tough matchups, fueling his team with energy on both ends of the floor. Beyond his on-court production, Noah's communication and leadership qualities are invaluable. He's emerging as the type of player who not only makes plays but also raises the level of his entire team. Expect him to be a major factor in Bella Vista's success this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2966962' first='Settimo' last='Yugo'] – Bella Vista (Grind Session &amp; NSPA)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Settimo is a newcomer to me, but he made a strong impression right away. The tall 2028 was a game-changer for both the NSPA team and the Grind Session teams of Bella Vista. Standing at 6'8, he brings a rare blend of size and skill to the floor. He handles the ball smoothly for his frame, showing confidence in pushing the pace and creating for others. Along with his guard-like abilities, Settimo flies in for rebounds and is able to elevate above the rim with ease, often finishing plays that energize his team. Defensively, his length disrupts passing lanes and alters shots around the basket, making him a presence on both ends. What stands out most is his versatility; he can stretch the floor, attack off the dribble, and impact the game inside and out. With his combination of athleticism, skill, and upside, Settimo has the tools to develop into a high-level prospect who will draw a lot of attention in the coming years. Excited to see him throughout the season and beyond. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2198867' first='Lucas' last='Toukam'] – Bella Vista (Grind Session)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Lucas is a returning player for Bella Vista this year. He uses his experience to play with poise. Some of Lucas's best attributes are his rebounding and defending skills. His ability to track the ball and secure it with two hands makes it hard to force turnovers on him. Lucas can guard the 1-4 positions, which is very impressive for him, considering he stands at 6'7. His quick lateral ability helps him stay in front of short, shifty guards. He is also able to alter tons of shots at the rim, which is very impressive. His offense will only improve as he gets a more consistent jumper and finishes around the rim at a higher level.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1834650' first='Jelani' last='McKoy'] – Bella Vista (NSPA)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Jelani is an exciting talent for Bella Vista who continues to make strides on both ends of the floor. One of his standout attributes is his improving shooting ability, which keeps defenders honest and opens up driving lanes for his teammates. When attacking the basket, Jelani gets downhill quickly and with purpose, using his speed and athleticism to blow by defenders. He's also able to finish above the rim, showing the ability to dunk over opponents and make highlight plays that energize his team. On the defensive end, Jelani is a strong on-ball defender, using his quickness and anticipation to disrupt opponents and create turnovers. With his combination of offensive aggression and defensive intensity, Jelani is a versatile player who has the potential to make a significant impact for Bella Vista this season after having a strong summer with [program_tooltip program_id='2867224' first='Phoenix' last='United'] Nike EYCL.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->