When the game got closer, it was Hopkins-McGlothen that stepped up big. The Benson freshman made big play after big play down the stretch, whether it was getting the bucket himself or finding an open teammate, as the Portland Boyz Elite 16U nabbed another W. His lefty pull-up jumper is super smooth and his feel for the game is definitely advanced for his age.

MVP

Hopkins-McGlothen gets our MVP nod for leading his team to the state tournament & earning 1st team all conference. His buzzer beating three was the deciding points to knock top seed Southridge out of the playoffs & he followed that up with a monster quarterfinal performance to beat Clackamas. Along the way the smooth lefty impressed coaches & fans with his crafty scoring ability & his mature approach to the game. He already holds multiple D1 offers, look for that number to increase as he gets older.

Kendall Hopkins-McGlothen Kendall Hopkins-McGlothen 6'2" | SF/SG Benson | 2029 State OR is emerging as one of the state’s top underclassmen, showing impressive production and poise—especially for a freshman. He averaged 17.7 points per game and 3.3 assists during the tournament, highlighting his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Offensively, Hopkins-McGlothen is a patient player with a polished feel. He uses step-through moves effectively, plays through contact, and consistently finds ways to score—whether it’s through his mid-range game, which is on point, or stepping out as a capable three-point shooter with a smooth-looking shot. He’s also a reliable free-throw shooter, making him a tough cover in late-game situations. His versatility stands out, as he can operate as a solid post option while also spacing the floor. On the glass, he’s a strong rebounder who creates second-chance opportunities, and defensively, he brings solid on-ball pressure. Add in his vocal leadership, competitive edge, and fearless mentality—he’s not afraid of anybody—and it’s clear he brings a winning presence every time he steps on the floor. With his skill set, toughness, and production at such a young age, Hopkins-McGlothen has high-level potential moving forward.

Hopkins-McGlothen continued to show why he’s considered one of the state’s top underclassmen, putting together a strong all-around performance with 12 points and 4 assists. He did a great job using step-through moves to navigate defenders and finish around the basket. Hopkins-McGlothen is also a solid rebounder, staying active on the glass and creating second-chance points for his team. What stands out most is his toughness—he’s not afraid of anybody on the floor, competing every possession while also showing good vision by setting up teammates.

Hopkins-McGlothen was a name that people inside the Oregon basketball community were aware of heading into March. Usually the chatter was, “I hear Benson has a good freshman.” His play over the last two weeks has made him a household name. Starting off with his buzzer beating three to knock out #1 seed Southridge in the round of 16, to his consistent play at the Chiles Center. McGlothen was the only freshman or sophomore to earn all tournament recognition (2nd team) & increased his recruiting profile, where he already holds a handful of D1 offers.

Hopkins-McGlothen is a patient, young player who already shows a well-rounded skill set. The freshman contributes as a solid rebounder and provides a reliable post option inside if neccesary. Offensively, he has a nice-looking shot, with the ability to step out and shoot from the perimeter, while also converting consistently at the free-throw line. With his versatility and poise at such a young age, Hopkins-McGlothen shows great long-term potential. Kendall had 16 points and 4 rebounds in tonight’s game.

Kendall Hopkins-McGlothen Kendall Hopkins-McGlothen 6'2" | SF/SG Benson | 2029 State OR delivered a standout performance, finishing with a team-high 25 points. A tough, competitive guard, he plays through contact and consistently pressured the defense. His mid-range game was on point, and he also showed the ability to knock down shots from three while converting at the free-throw line. Hopkins-McGlothen competed on the defensive end as a solid on-ball defender and brings energy as a vocal leader who thrives in the heat of competition.

Our top performer from Friday night, the fearless lefty lead his team to a historic victory. Not only leading his Benson squad to the Elite 8 for the first time at the 6A level, he also sparked the first ever victory for a 16 seed over a number one seed in 6A history.

The 6’2 wing was in attack mode all night on his way to a game high 25 points. No points bigger than his last three, where he dribble the length of the court & hit a pull up three pointer from the top of the key to send the Astros to the Chiles Center.

Hopkins-McGlothen came into high school with a lot of accolades and he more than lived up to billing, essentially emerging as the top players on a squad that tied for the league title. The freshman lefty showed he could score in creative ways at all three levels and was also a force to be reckoned with on the boards. There’s never been a freshman that has won POY honors in the PIL – Hopkins-McGlothen has the resume to be the first.

Kendall Hopkins-McGlothen Kendall Hopkins-McGlothen 6'2" | SF/SG Benson | 2029 State OR continues to show why he’s considered one of the top freshmen in the state of Oregon. The athletic wing finished with 16 points and added several rebounds, using his good length and high energy to impact the game on both ends. A solid free-throw shooter and tough competitor, he plays with confidence and consistent effort throughout.