2021 Michigan Grassroots Player Of The Year
The state of Michigan had some players turn in excellent performances during grassroots season. The class of 2021 was no exception. They proved to have star power deep into the class. We have named a Michigan Grassroots Player Of The Year for the 2019 and 2020 classes.
2019 Michigan Grassroots Player Of The Year
2020 Michigan Grassroots Player Of The Year
The four 2021 finalists nominated by coaches, players, and fans were: Jaden Akins, Pierre Brooks II, Kobe Bufkin, and Foster Wonders.
The final vote was, as expected, was very close.
Pierre Brooks II: 31%
Foster Wonders: 26%
Jaden Akins: 25%
Kobe Bufkin: 18%
Pierre Brooks II (G, Detroit Frederick Douglass, The Family)
Brooks II played like a top 100 prospect in the country during grassroots season. He has an incredible overall game, with a high basketball IQ. Brooks II just seems to have an innate sense of how the game is played. He’s a versatile player who can play and defend multiple positions. It’s tough for an opponent to even find a weakness.
Foster Wonders (G/F, Iron Mountain, Pack Attack)
C/O Iron Mountain Daily NewsWonders simply did his business this spring and summer. In consistent fashion, he carved up opponents no matter what they threw at him. Wonders is a strong and physical player, who thrives when playing through contact. He showed a top 100 skillset while leading the Pack Attack.
Jaden Akins (G, Farmington High School, The Family)
Akins proved to be an elite guard talent and a Division 1 prospect. He can flat out score. Akins makes his defender constantly be aware of where he is on the floor. He recognizes good scoring opportunities and takes advantage of them. Akins is a smooth athlete with a very high ceiling.
Kobe Bufkin (G, Grand Rapids Christian, UTS Elite)
Bufkin may have been the biggest stock riser in the 2021 class over grassroots season. He proved to be a prospect with Division 1 potential while playing for UTS Elite. He’s a versatile guard who can play on or off the ball. He’s a solid defender and incredibly efficient on the offensive end.