Spencer’s Takes: Arizona Preps Showcase Standouts

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I ([player_tooltip player_id='2716510' first='Spencer' last='Goldberg']) had the chance to head out to Inspire Courts to check out <em>Anthony Ray's</em> <strong>Arizona Preps Showcase</strong>! This marks the 27th annual tournament, a long-running event that's seen tons of NBA and Division I talent coming through over the years. Always great to see Arizona hoops thriving!&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Here were my Standouts I viewed from Saturday</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1445948' first='Brandon' last='Stapleton'] – Chandler</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1445948' first='Brandon' last='Stapleton'], the smooth lefty out of Chandler High School, seems to improve every time he takes the floor. His advanced offensive skill set makes him one of the most intriguing players to watch. He creates space effortlessly off the jab step and the dribble, and his lightning-quick release makes his jumper tough to defend. With a strong, athletic frame, Brandon defends well and uses his body effectively on both ends of the court. College programs are beginning to take notice, and his stock should continue to rise as he gears up for a big season with Chandler HS.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='3028449' first='Isaiah' last='Akwue'] – Sequoia National</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='3028449' first='Isaiah' last='Akwue'], a promising 6'9 big man from Sequoia National in the class of 2027, continues to turn heads with his size, touch, and potential. He has soft hands, a high motor, and runs the floor exceptionally well for his position. In the game I watched, Isaiah showed several impressive flashes, finishing strong around the rim, altering shots defensively, and displaying good instincts on both ends. His athletic ability and developing footwork make him a tough match-up inside, and as he continues to grow stronger and polish his post moves. Expect his name to become much more well-known as his game and confidence evolve this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2550840' first='Austin' last='Turner'] – Perry </strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Austin had a strong showing in the Arizona Preps Showcase, displaying his versatile offensive skill set by knocking down open jumpers and attacking the rim aggressively. He finished well in traffic and threw down highlight-reel dunks, showing off his athleticism. On defense, his length and excellent mobility allow him to guard multiple positions effectively. His confidence is steadily improving as he grows more comfortable on the floor and continues to develop.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2194474' first='Isaiah' last='Rider IV'] – Higley</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>While Isaiah is just starting his high school career, he's already making an impact at the varsity level. His clutch gene shows up every time he's on the court, knocking down multiple threes with a smooth, reliable stroke. He also demonstrates a high basketball IQ, finding his teammates with accurate passes and making smart decisions on both ends of the floor. On defense, Isaiah uses his instincts and awareness to create turnovers and disrupt opponents, making him a valuable two-way contributor even as he continues to develop.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2964152' first='Daniel' last='Simon'] – Hillcrest Prep (Pictured)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2964152' first='Daniel' last='Simon'], a 2026 big man out of Hillcrest Prep, stands out with his exceptional height and length, giving him a natural advantage on both ends of the floor. While his overall game is still raw, he shows promising potential and is expected to continue improving over time. Offensively, Daniel can knock down outside jumpers and finish emphatically at the rim with powerful dunks. His size, combined with developing skills, makes him a player to watch as he grows and refines his game this upcoming season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1893678' first='Chris' last='King'] – Phoenix Prep</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1893678' first='Chris' last='King'], a 2027 standout at Phoenix Prep, is an incredibly hyper-athletic player who makes an immediate impact on both ends of the floor. He attacks downhill with speed and aggression, finishing strong at the rim while also blocking shots and altering opponents' attempts. On defense, Chris plays with intensity, using his athleticism to disrupt plays and create turnovers. His explosiveness and bounce make him a highlight-ready player, and with continued development, he is a top prospect to watch for the future.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2423942' first='Apollo' last='Jennings'] – Chandler HS</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2423942' first='Apollo' last='Jennings'] of Chandler HS is a force on the boards, consistently dominating the glass and securing key rebounds for his team. Around the rim, he finishes efficiently and capitalizes on second-chance opportunities, helping to extend possessions and keep the offense flowing. His tenacity and impact in the paint make him a crucial role player, and he's poised to be an elite contributor and key piece for Chandler HS this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->