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<p>The first slate of matchups this week delivered plenty of energy and standout performances. Monday and Tuesday's games gave us a clear look at rising talent and players making their mark. Here are the keynotes from both nights of action. Keep us updated on ALL prospects over on “X“ and “Instagram,” just tag @PrepHoops_AR & @VortexSportsArkansas.</p>
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<p>Monday Night </p>
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<li>Valley View vs Westside (Jonesboro)<br><br>-[player_tooltip player_id='2382017' first='Eli' last='Craig'] | Valley View | 2027<br>"Craig plays with a poise that keeps teammates at ease. He controls the tempo, keeping teammates calm and opponents off balance. His ability to stay composed in pressure moments makes him the kind of guard you can build around.”<br><br>-[player_tooltip player_id='2969823' first='Koby' last='Thompson'] | Westside | 2026<br>“Thompson's conditioning and motor is his strong suit. He's a spark plug, hustling for loose balls, sprinting the floor, and setting the tone. His energy is contagious, and when he's locked in, the whole gym feels it.”</li>
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<li>Nashville vs Kirby<br><br>-[player_tooltip player_id='3025339' first='Demetrus' last='Shelley'] | Nashville | 2026<br>“Shelley thrives in chaos. When the game slows down, he speeds it up, showing playmaking skills to help his team. His ability to dictate pace and keep control under pressure shows a maturity that coaches love.”<br><br>-Mason Lindsey | Kirby | 2026<br>“Lindsey plays with toughness and maturity. He's a glue guy who doesn't shy away from the big plays, and his awareness and hustle make him a threat, both ways, on the floor.”</li>
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<p>Tuesday Night</p>
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<li>Greenbrier vs Russellville<br><br>-[player_tooltip player_id='2885277' first='Sam' last='Palmer'] | Greenbrier | 2028<br>“Palmer's upside is sky-high. Every possession feels like a glimpse of tomorrow whether it's a confident drive, a strong rebound, or a defensive stop. His growth trajectory makes him one to watch closely.”<br><br>-Zaden Williams | Russellville | 2027<br>“Williams attacks the rim with conviction. Fearless, physical, and determined, he puts pressure on defenses every time he touches the ball. His ability to finish through contact sets the tone for Russellville's offense.”</li>
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<li>Searcy vs Jacksonville<br><br>-[player_tooltip player_id='2373604' first='Jaylan' last='Clifton'] | Searcy | 2026<br>“Clifton's shot changes games. He disrupts passing lanes, knocks down shots, and forces opponents to adjust. His deep range shooting presence alone can swing momentum, and his versatility from the guard spot makes him a matchup problem.”<br><br>-[player_tooltip player_id='2947654' first='Elijah' last='Span'] | Jacksonville | 2028<br>“Spann's confidence is contagious. He plays like the moment belongs to him, stepping into shots and attacking defenders without hesitation. He's a naturally gifted defender with a fearless approach that gives Jacksonville a weapon who can grow into a leader.”</li>
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<li>Dumas vs DeWitt<br><br>-Marcus Kilgore | Dumas | 2026<br>“Kilgore's toughness defines him. Every bucket and rebound feels like a statement, and his willingness to battle physically sets the tone for his team. He's the kind of player who makes winning plays that don't always show up in the box score.”<br><br>-[player_tooltip player_id='2300186' first='Xavier' last='Cox'] | DeWitt | 2027 <br>“Cox brings balance. His steady playmaking, reliable shot, and calm demeanor give DeWitt consistency on both ends of the floor. He's the lead guy who keeps the team grounded when the game gets tight.”</li>
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<p></p>
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The first slate of matchups this week delivered plenty of energy and standout performances. Monday and Tuesday's games gave us a clear look at rising talent and players making their mark. Here are the keynotes from both nights of action. Keep us updated on ALL prospects over on “X“ and “Instagram,” just tag @PrepHoops_AR & @VortexSportsArkansas.
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