A first team ballot type player out of the entire showcase. Neal did a little bit of everything throughout the day as I got to see him compete in 2 full games on Team 11. A versatile guard with size who can handle the rock and score it in bunches. He consistently got steps on the defender while attacking the rim hard. Showed just as much perimeter game as well as he tallied for at least 4 3’s at a high clip in the team’s last game of the day. With his size he brings rebounding value to the front court as well. Defensively talked on screens and overall had keen awareness of the game with advanced feel. De La Salle prospect that should turn a lot of heads through high school.

Perhaps no one improved his stock at the Freshman Showcase more than Neal. Neal immediately pops on the court, combining downhill aggression with a level of strength, confidence, and command that feels well beyond his years. He’s a threat from three and his physicality merged with his intentional decision-making on offense sets him apart. There was plenty of swagger to his game, especially when going toe-to-toe with fellow prospect Robert Smith Jr Robert Smith Jr 6'2" | SG Marist | 2030 IL ., and the overall package suggests he has a chance to be a special player. If I was a college coach, I’d star his name and put him on your calendar ASAP.

Evan Neal is a dynamic bucket getter in isolation, playing at his own pace with poise and confidence. He probes patiently, using hesitations, crossovers, and in-and-outs to get defenders on their heels, then exploits the slightest shift in balance. Out of the triple threat, Neal utilizes sharp jabs and swim moves to throw his defender off before blowing by them to the rack with authority.