Grind Session NYC Saturday Standouts

The Grind Session made its way to New York City this weekend, bringing together four talented programs from across the country in Our Savior Lutheran (NY), Massanutten Military Academy (VA), Clinton Grace Christian (MD), and Utah Prep (UT). With a number of high-major prospects, Division I commits, and intriguing underclassmen taking the floor, there was no shortage of talent on display. While some of the more established names looked every bit the part, several younger prospects made strong impressions of their own, showcasing the depth of talent across all four rosters. From dominant individual performances to a tightly contested matchup that came down to the final minutes, Friday's action offered plenty to take away as the high school season gets underway. Here's a closer look at the players who stood out.    Willis was far more aggressive attacking the rim than he was against OSL on Friday, consistently finishing through contact or getting himself to the free throw line. His assertiveness helped Utah Prep establish an early lead that it would ultimately never relinquish. He was particularly impressive cutting to the basket, where his developing chemistry with point guard Jayden Cecil was evident as the two connected on a handful of lobs above the rim. Willis possesses a tantalizing physical skillset, combining size, length, and athleticism with the versatility to operate both out of the post and on the wing. His ability to impact the game in different areas of the floor made him a difficult matchup throughout, and it's clear that he's truly only beginning to scratch the surface of his potential.     A jumbo creator off the dribble, the Estonian guard is an intriguing addition to Massanutten after making the move from Huntington Prep (WV). His IQ and court vision were on full display, as he consistently found open shooters and cutters while showing a natural feel for when to create for himself and when to get his teammates involved. He was efficient scoring in the midrange and used his positional size to make an impact on the glass as well. There's plenty to like about his combination of size, skill, and feel for the game, and it will be interesting to see where he ultimately lands in the next Virginia rankings now that he's settled into his new surroundings. He has the tools to become a major piece for Massanutten as the season progresses.     The New Zealand U18 national team member looks like another impact transfer for a Utah Prep program that continues to strengthen its ties to New Zealand and Australia. A big-bodied shooter who was comfortable scoring at all three levels, Hopoi did an excellent job attacking closeouts and using his strength to either finish through contact or get himself to the free throw line. His sturdy frame also translates well defensively, where he has the physical tools to match up with multiple positions. Perhaps most impressive was his overall feel for the game, as he consistently read the defense and made good decisions with the ball in his hands. Hopoi's combination of shooting, physicality, and offensive versatility should make him a valuable piece for Utah Prep moving forward.     Entering the season with a reputation as one of the top prospects nationally in his class, the talented freshman looked every bit the part over the weekend. He played with confidence well beyond his years, attacking the rim decisively while showing the ability to knock down deep threes when given the opportunity. Against Clinton Grace, he connected on a trio of shots from beyond the arc to help OSL establish a lead it would never relinquish. Just as impressive was his willingness to compete on the defensive end, where he embraced the challenge of matching up with Butler commit Lonnie Lyons and made life difficult for the talented lead guard. His contributions on both ends were important as the Falcons held off a strong comeback effort from their Maryland counterparts.     The 2028 forward found ways to impact the game in a variety of areas, contributing on the glass, setting screens, and slashing to the basket while consistently playing within the flow of the offense. Neal also showed his ability to stretch the floor, getting himself open with regularity from beyond the arc and knocking down a couple of timely threes that kept Clinton Grace within striking distance in the first half and positioned them to make a run. He was equally effective defensively, competing at a high level and showing a willingness to do the little things that don't always show up in the box score. His combination of versatility, activity, and developing perimeter skillset makes him an intriguing piece for the program moving forward.     Another versatile piece for the Falcons, Karimu made his presence felt primarily through his defense, passing, and willingness to do the dirty work against Clinton Grace. The 6-foot-3 freshman spent much of his time matched up with the Eagles' wings, using his physical tools and activity to make things difficult for them offensively. He also showed good feel as a passer and consistently made an effort to get involved on the glass, allowing him to stay on the floor for extended stretches without needing to score. On a roster that already has plenty of offensive firepower, Karimu's willingness to embrace a complementary role and impact games in virtually every other area should prove invaluable. It's that type of versatility and unselfishness that will help him continue to carve out minutes while contributing to the Falcons' success as the season progresses.

The Grind Session made its way to New York City this weekend, bringing together four talented programs from across the country in Our Savior Lutheran (NY), Massanutten Military Academy (VA), Clinton Grace Christian (MD), and Utah Prep (UT). With a number of high-major prospects, Division I commits, and intriguing underclassmen taking the floor, there was no shortage of talent on display. While some of the more established names looked every bit the part, several younger prospects made strong impressions of their own, showcasing the depth of talent across all four rosters. From dominant individual performances to a tightly contested matchup that came down to the final minutes, Friday's action offered plenty to take away as the high school season gets underway. Here's a closer look at the players who stood out.

Evan Willis

UT #1

PF #1

HEIGHT 6'8"

POS PF

CLASS 2028

View Player

Evan Willis

State: Utah

School: Utah Prep

Club: BTI

Willis was far more aggressive attacking the rim than he was against OSL on Friday, consistently finishing through contact or getting himself to the free throw line. His assertiveness helped Utah Prep establish an early lead that it would ultimately never relinquish. He was particularly impressive cutting to the basket, where his developing chemistry with point guard Jayden Cecil was evident as the two connected on a handful of lobs above the rim. Willis possesses a tantalizing physical skillset, combining size, length, and athleticism with the versatility to operate both out of the post and on the wing. His ability to impact the game in different areas of the floor made him a difficult matchup throughout, and it's clear that he's truly only beginning to scratch the surface of his potential.