These Guards Brought Their Best at Uprise Hoops Tournament

Uprise Hoops did not disappoint especially when it came to backcourt play. These guards brought energy, confidence and a level of skill that demanded attention. The way they controlled games and impacted both ends of the floor left no doubt that this group is for real and they're only getting better.    Walker is one of those players who immediately catches your attention with his energy and command of the game. He controls the offense with poise, keeping teammates engaged and the pace where he wants it. What stands out most is his competitiveness and how he battles every possession never taking a play off. Offensively he's dangerous from all three levels, capable of breaking defenders down off the dribble or knocking down shots with confidence. The biggest growth in his game has been his belief in himself. He does not hesitate in key moments and has the maturity to step up and take over when needed. Whether it's creating a bucket late, taking the big shot, or putting the team on his back, Walker has shown he can rise to the moment an invaluable trait that makes him a player to watch     Bass made a major impact as an integral piece of his team's success. His ability to change the momentum of a game with his three point shooting is a real weapon. He has the ability to heat up fast and can quickly erase deficits and stretch the defense. He complements that with aggressive drives to the rim, where he finishes with toughness and purpose. On the defensive end he sets the tone with his effort, staying tight on his matchup and making every possession difficult. Bass brings energy and impact on both sides of the floor, the type of player who can swing a game     Valdez shows maturity well beyond his years already taking command as a true floor general. He has a natural feel for reading the defense, adapting quickly and making the right decision whether it's to attack or facilitate. Despite being just a freshman he plays big against older competition, showing poise and toughness that stand out. He controls the pace of play with confidence and puts himself in positions to score. His quick first step allows him to get into the lane and finish at the rim. He's just as effective creating for others delivering kick outs to shooters or finding cutters in stride. Valdez has the tools, instincts and competitiveness that project him as a leader on the floor and a player who will only get more dangerous as he continues to develop     Davis continues to shine and make his presence felt every time he steps on the floor. With the ball in his hands he's confident and decisive, attacking lanes with force and finishing plays with consistency. His ability to drive hard to the rim puts constant pressure on defenses and he converts those opportunities into points. What separates him is the relentless motor he brings on the glass. He fights for position, crashes the boards and often creates second chance scoring opportunities with his put backs. That effort not only adds to his own production but also gives his team extra possessions that can change the momentum of a game. Davis's combination of toughness, scoring ability and work ethic makes him a difference maker who impacts winning in multiple ways     Long has shown steady growth in his game adding new layers to his offensive arsenal each time out. He's already well known as a shooter especially from deep by stretching defenses and knocking down shots with confidence. What makes him stand out now is the work he's put into his inside game. He moves with purpose, using quick cuts and timely flashes to the rim to create easy scoring chances. His athleticism gives him the ability to finish in highlight fashion, throwing down powerful dunks and being a constant lob threat on alley oops. This combination of perimeter shooting and explosive finishing makes him a matchup problem, forcing defenders to respect him at all levels.Long's continued development shows he's becoming a complete offensive player, with the ability to impact the game far beyond just being a shooter

Uprise Hoops did not disappoint especially when it came to backcourt play. These guards brought energy, confidence and a level of skill that demanded attention. The way they controlled games and impacted both ends of the floor left no doubt that this group is for real and they're only getting better.