Utah Prep Spothlight

While Utah Prep hasn't been around for long, they've quickly established themselves as a powerhouse program for both domestic and international prospects. Situated in Southern Utah, this program has not only managed to compete at the highest levels but also operates multiple teams at different levels, all focused on developing talent with the potential to excel in college programs.   Recent Notable Players   AJ Dybantsa 25' (BYU)   JJ Mandaquit 25' (Washington)   John Southwick 25' (Utah Valley University)   Xavion Staton 25' (BYU)   Jackson Rasmussen 25' (Idaho)   Jaden Vance 25' (UC San Diego)   The Future Looks Bright   With a mixture of players from the states and a few International prospects, it seems as if Utah Prep is gathering talent with HIGH IQ. They have and will continue to compete against the best and hold their own against anyone.   Local Prospect via. Hawaii   [player_tooltip player_id='1278443' first='Anthony' last='Felesi'], hailing from Laie, Hawaii, has called Utah home for quite some time. As an incoming freshman, he generated considerable buzz, showcasing not only athleticism but also skill and strength on the defensive end. During his time at Orem High School, Felesi propelled the Tigers to new heights. He subsequently made the transition to Utah Prep, where he has blossomed into a senior and a committed Pitt player, solidifying his status as a truly exceptional talent.   Felesi's game is a captivating blend of raw power and calculated precision. He attacks the basket with relentless force, showcasing a powerful drive to the rim. However, he also possesses the ability to decelerate swiftly, finding open space for his reliable midrange jumper. These contrasting elements, combined with his unwavering determination, have established Felesi as a top-tier player nationally, a fact readily supported by leading rankings.   Utah Prep Prospects   [player_tooltip player_id='2511635' first='Jackson' last='Kiss']   [player_tooltip player_id='2511635' first='Jackson' last='Kiss'] is a 6-foot-8 forward from Auckland, New Zealand, who represented his country at the 2024 Under-17 World Cup. Jackson brings a rare blend of size and skill. He can guard positions one through five, rebound effectively, handle the ball, and facilitate the offense. His ability to shoot from deep and play multiple roles makes him a unique matchup problem at both the high school and collegiate levels. Jackson has committed to Iowa State and will compete in the Big 12, where his versatility and basketball intelligence are expected to shine.   [player_tooltip player_id='2540166' first='Jayden' last='Cecil']   [player_tooltip player_id='2540166' first='Jayden' last='Cecil'], a 6-foot-4 point guard from Brisbane, Australia, possesses a 6-foot-8 wingspan and an elite basketball IQ that sets him apart. He displays remarkable poise, maturity, and decision-making skills, along with the ability to score at all three levels. His length enables him to guard bigger guards while maintaining offensive versatility. He can operate as a primary ball handler or play off the ball due to his shooting ability. Recognized as one of the top prospects in Australia for his class, Jayden enters his second year at Utah Prep with a high ceiling, and he is only a sophomore.   Josiah Straughter   Josiah “Jojo” Straughter, a 6-foot-2 guard from Las Vegas, Nevada, is known for his exceptional finishing abilities, drawing comparisons to Kyrie Irving. Jojo uses both hands around the rim, finishes high or low off the glass, and can shoot the three. He can guard smaller and larger guards due to his toughness and intelligence. His unselfish approach, playmaking ability, and high basketball IQ make him a true problem on the floor. Although he is unselfish, he can take over games when necessary. His development is evident, and his talent is undeniable.   Tyrone Uwandu   Tyrone Uwandu is a 6-foot-6 guard, born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, with Nigerian heritage. Tyrone brings a strong physical presence and an advanced international understanding of the game of basketball. He shoots from deep, reads the game at a high level, and guards positions one through four. His athleticism, temperament, and coachability make him a crucial piece of the Utah Prep roster. Tyrone plays a vital role in the team's success due to his unselfish style, commitment to the system, and ability to impact the game on both ends.   [player_tooltip player_id='2820423' first='Djafar' last='Silimana']   [player_tooltip player_id='2820423' first='Djafar' last='Silimana'] is a 6-foot-10 center from Mali with a 7-foot-5 wingspan. Known for his smooth and unselfish playing style, Djafar excels as a rim runner, shot blocker, and defensive anchor. He positions himself well in dunker spots, runs the floor effectively, and protects the rim with excellent timing. His ability to defend and play out of pick-and-roll actions adds structure and strength to the Utah Prep interior. Djafar's calm nature, toughness, and willingness to enforce the paint make him an invaluable part of the team.   [player_tooltip player_id='2899044' first='Ousseynou' last='Sambe']   [player_tooltip player_id='2899044' first='Ousseynou' last='Sambe'], a 6-foot-10 forward-center from Senegal with a 7-foot-5 wingspan, brings elite athleticism and versatility to Utah Prep. A product of NBA Africa, Sambe can guard all five positions, run the floor like a gazelle, and protect the rim at a high level. His NBA-ready physique and fearless approach make him one of the most dynamic big men in the region. He is unselfish, efficient, and capable of stretching the floor with the occasional three-pointer. Sambe is expected to be a major asset for Utah Prep this season.   [player_tooltip player_id='2637247' first='Noah' last='Darden']   [player_tooltip player_id='2637247' first='Noah' last='Darden'] is a 5-foot-9 guard from Las Vegas, Nevada, who brings speed, athleticism, and defensive energy. He is known for his ability to pick up opposing guards full-court and change the tempo of the game with his quickness. As one of the younger players on the roster, Noah is in a learning phase but contributes through effort, pace, and willingness to accept coaching. His desire to grow and his athletic tools make him a promising long-term contributor.   Maz Taylor   Maz Taylor, a 6-foot-3 guard from New Zealand, brings a tough, fearless, and physical international playing style. He shoots threes from deep, pushes the pace, and competes with confidence. His ability to contribute as both a scorer and a tempo setter makes him an important part of the Utah Prep perimeter rotation. His work ethic and fearless mentality help elevate the team's competitive edge.   DJ Ogoemeka   Daniel “DJ” Ogoemeka, a towering 7-foot-2 center from Nigeria with a remarkable 7-foot-6 wingspan, possesses rare agility and timing for his size, making him a premier shot blocker and elite lob threat. DJ reads plays well, runs the floor with surprising speed, and finishes above the rim with authority. His powerful screen setting, defensive presence, and ability to overwhelm opponents physically make him a dominant interior anchor for Utah Prep.

While Utah Prep hasn't been around for long, they've quickly established themselves as a powerhouse program for both domestic and international prospects. Situated in Southern Utah, this program has not only managed to compete at the highest levels but also operates multiple teams at different levels, all focused on developing talent with the potential to excel in college programs.