Whiteside already proved he can produce at a high level after leading Montbello with 15 points per game while also contributing 5.2 rebounds and 3.1 assists. What makes his future so exciting is the steady growth in every part of his game. This summer he’s playing with far more confidence, attacking defenders instead of waiting for opportunities, and showing he can score from all three levels. Whether it’s knocking down shots from deep, creating off the bounce or finishing through contact, he’s becoming tougher to contain possession after possession. He consistently puts up double figures because of his ability to adapt to different defenses and stay aggressive. As his decision making and overall pace continue improving, Whiteside looks like a player ready to make a major jump moving forward

Whiteside is one of the few players at this age who plays a ton of varsity, and he’s not only playing a ton, but he’s the leading scorer for his team, so it is intriguing to watch him play at this level and adapt to having other talented players around him. You can tell he has varsity feel with how he pushes the pace, attacks to get to his go-to spots, and handles the pressure that teams throw at him, and now it is about providing balance as a lead guard who can make plays for teammates but also get his own with the flow of the offense. On Day 1, he was under control by taking care of the ball as he took on ball handling duties when he was in, but it was certainly a day of him being all over on defense and playing with pace. Want to see how the rest of the weekend goes for him. 

Montbello will look to freshman Whiteside as the engine that goes heading into the first round. Averaging 15.2 points, 5.4 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game, he’s the steady playmaker who controls tempo and keeps teammates involved. Consistently scoring in double figures, he can take over as needed or create easy looks for others. As the lead ball handler his decision making and poise under pressure will be critical. If he dictates pace and finds his rhythm early, Montbello becomes a tough out

Whiteside has been on a tear of late for Montbello, showing the ability to take over stretches of games. He’s averaging 14.2 points, 3.2 assists and 4.9 rebounds, impacting the game on both ends of the floor. With a season high of 28, he gets to his spots with ease and has a smooth, confident stroke. His recent surge has made him a reliable offensive option and a steady all around presence

Whiteside has been one of the more assertive freshmen in the state as he’s putting up an impressive 13.2 points a game. He attacks gaps, lives in the paint, and converts possessions into points with pace and purpose. His energy shows up on the glass as well as in transition, and his recent 27-point outing showcased his upside when he’s rolling. The confidence is growing, the motor is steady, and his impact now demands attention. He will make his debut in the 2029 rankings and we want to get out and see what the hype is about.