-Long and active just like all the other games I’ve watched with him

-Nocked down a catch and shoot corner three off a drive n kick pass frok Cj

-Tip in O Board for score/nice timing on his jump

-Nice job starting fast break off of defensive rebound

-Loved his activity and effort from start to finish

-Jab step three from wing, was feeling it

-Long/stretchy, highlight dunker & shot-blocker, dangerous shooter & slasher

-4 points

-Downhill slash, runner kiss off the glass from 10-feet

-Breakaway athletic 2-handed SLAM

-Crisp pass to the top of the key to Skogs for a triple

What has been the biggest focus for you personally this season?

“I look to be the best version of myself in my last year of high school, I also want to be known as a great basketball player in the state of South Dakota.”

What’s one area of your game you’ve seen the most improvement in?

“One improvement I’ve seen in myself is my defense. It opens up my game and it’s fun when I can use my length to create stops on teams’ offenses.”

What does your team do well when you’re playing your best basketball?

“My team really knows how to create that energy through every play I can create. They know how to celebrate each other as well, which is a huge plus.“

Who’s a teammate that deserves more recognition?

“A teammate I feel that deserves recognition is my point guard, CJ Schmaus CJ Schmaus 5'9" | PG Sioux Falls Roosevelt | 2026 SD , He’s a returning varsity player with great leadership skills. He gets me going every night and everyone else while scoring the ball. He’s also a very good on-ball defender.“

How do you stay locked in during the grind of the season—especially on tough weeks?

“Get all the reps I can get in practice. Getting to realize what my opponent has to bring to a game as well and what I have to do to stop them is really what gets me going.”

What’s something your coaches emphasize that really shows up on game nights?

“When the ball is moving, we are unstoppable. We have lots of scorers that can give double digits on any night and the talent we have is very good. So when you see that ball moving there’s not really a thing you can do to stop it.”

What’s the biggest lesson basketball has taught you?

“Basketball has taught me to always know everyone’s point of view. It leads to having success on and off the court and you get connected that way with whoever you’re dealing with.“

What has been your favorite moment of the season so far?

“My favorite moment of the season is just getting together with my teammates outside of practice. High school basketball only comes around for a couple of years in your life and you want to enjoy every part of it.”

Favorite gym to play in (besides home)?

“Greatlife Woodlake Gym here in Sioux Falls. had guys who’ve taught me lessons, set me with the friends I have today, and where all my work is put in.”

What are you hoping to accomplish before postseason play begins?

“The accomplishment I need is to beat every team in AA, whether it’s a sweep or just one time.“

-Very active and long 6’5 player on both ends of the floor

-His athleticism and length allows him to guard most positions

-Changed more then a handful of shots in the paint and perimeter with his jumping ability and length

-Showed he could step out and nock down a couple three’s with a good stroke

-Rebounds well

-Best in the open court in transition

Justin Bilal Justin Bilal 6'5" | SG/SF Sioux Falls Roosevelt | 2026 State SD has made an immediate impact for Roosevelt and has been a major factor in the Riders’ 3–0 start to the season. He is played well, impressing on both ends of the floor, using his length and scoring ability to help the offense average 67.5 points per game. Bilal can shoot it, score it in a variety of ways, and create matchup problems with his athleticism, length, and versatility. Early on, Bilal has looked like a true game-changer. His ability to affect the game offensively while also competing defensively makes him a tough cover and an exciting player to watch on the hardwood. Keep eyes on Bilal, he is also no stranger to making highlight reel plays.

Senior guard Justin Bilal Justin Bilal 6'5" | SG/SF Sioux Falls Roosevelt | 2026 State SD is set to make a major impact in his first season with Roosevelt after transferring from Lincoln. Long, athletic, fast up the court, and bouncy, Bilal has all the tools to be a breakout performer for the Rough Riders. His combination of shooting ability and rim-attacking power makes him a nightmare matchup for defenders. Expect Roosevelt to feature him early and often — his athleticism and flair for highlight-reel plays will give the Riders a spark on both ends of the floor. With his skill set and confidence, Bilal looks poised for a big senior season.

Justin is about to have a break out season this year. His shot from 3 is silk, and his movements with the ball off the bounce seem effortless. Bilal knows how to get his looks yet plays unselfish, team ball. He plays physical on defense and will contest shots in the paint with his length.

PHD projects Justin as one of the Cavs’ breakout stars this season. With his long, lanky frame and explosive athleticism, he’s a dangerous slasher who can get to the rim in a hurry and finish with authority. Expect plenty of highlight-worthy moments, as his jaw-dropping dunks and attacking style could make him one of the most exciting players to watch this year in AA.

It has been a while since I have watched him play live, so I am excited to see what Bilal can do. I believe Justin had an injury this spring and he played with SD Elite earlier in the season. Let’s see how he is gelling with the Hoop City squad. I have heard multiple positive reports on Bilal. He is certainly a long athlete. How is his shot selection, skill-level, and interest in defense?