Blackwood scored 13 points in the first 13 minutes of the game and was therefore a huge catalyst in helping New Hampton get out to an early lead. The senior wing used his incredible strength and physical driving ability to get to the rim with ease, and he also knocked down some shots from the outside and mid-range. He has one of the most well-rounded two-way games in New England, and Saturday’s matchup against London Jemison London Jemison 6'8" | SF St. Thomas More | 2025 State New E was a good opportunity for him to show that he can compete at the high-major level against anyone. Penn State might’ve gotten a steal that other big-time schools will be kicking themselves for.

Blackwood always impresses with his athleticism, strength, and all-around scoring ability. He did more of the same against STM. But most impressive was his defense. He did an awesome job on Jemison, STM’s best player; he slid his feet well and chased him around screens all game. He can also provide rim protection at the hoop as a result of his hops and size. Blackwood, like Meyer, is college ready and could definitely walk into minutes at Penn State next year. These two have to be the best wing-duo in the NEPSAC.

The more I watch Blackwood, the more I realize that his three-point shooting simply can’t be a fluke. I’ve seen him knock down 3+ threes on good efficiency for too many games now to look past the fact that he’s a consistent perimeter shooter. When you combine his shooting stroke with his ability to get to the paint, he becomes a really dynamic offensive player. Defensively, Blackwood really impressed me against Bridgton; he slides his feet well on guards but also provides some rim protection as a result of his ridiculous athleticism.

Blackwood, as I said after the last NEBL session, is basically the archetype of a high level D1 wing. He’s 6-foot-7 and incredibly strong, but this weekend his shooting really popped. It seemed like whenever New Hampton needed a bucket, Blackwood made a big shot, especially from the three-point line. He’s also an amazing athlete, which bodes well for his ability to attack the offensive glass and cause chaos on drives, and he even showed some decent passing chops once he got into the paint. Defensively, he might be New Hampton’s best individual defender and is so versatile on that end as a result of his body and athletic tools. Sky’s the limit for him – nothing is off the table for the Penn State commit.

Good passer for an athlete of his size getting a handful of assists. Variety of great moves getting downhill quickly with his long strides. Great balance and strength helped him finish after contact. Penn St. commit will eventually grow into a prominent player for the team.

Blackwood is another player who has added both strength and skill to his game, making him a more well-rounded threat. His improved athleticism allows him to finish with power and control around the rim. He has also developed the ability to create his own shot, whether it’s from beyond the arc or in the mid-range. This added scoring versatility makes him a difficult player to defend, as he can attack from multiple areas on the floor.

Blackwood put an end to his recruitment by announcing his commitment to the Pennsylvania State University. A versatile prospect that can impact the game on both ends of the floor, Blackwood continues to operate with a high efficiency level. Defensively, he utilizes his frame and athleticism to guard multiple positions and has proven to be a quality rebounder. On the other end of the floor, he’s continued to improve as a spot up shooter and straight line driver. He’s a good athlete that has the ability to finish above the rim and is terrific at attacking the paint in transition. He has great length, a quick first step, and explodes towards the rim off the bounce. This is a solid recruiting win for Penn State, who landed a prospect that has the potential to make an immediate impact on the wing in the Big Ten.

Blackwood is having a big time summer putting the country on notice, garnering attention and offers from the next level in the meantime. As an SG, Blackwood is an athletic two way player that can score around the basket and consistently knockdown threes. Blackwood is also very tough to stop in transition once he has a full head of steam.

Mason Blackwood Mason Blackwood 6'7" | SF New Hampton | 2025 State New E is an athletic wing who possesses a simple but very effective approach to the game that impacts winning. He is a menace on the boards and will use his athletic advantages to soar over opponents for offensive rebounds. Blackwood gets easy points because of his extra effort. In transition, he is an easy mover with graceful movements and loves to play above the rim in those instances. Blackwood is also a knockdown shooter off the catch and is a real spacing threat with a smooth jump shot. In ball-handling scenarios, he makes good reads and limits turnovers. Blackwood is a fun bouncy forward whose mentality of doing the little things should make him a favorite among anyone who gets to watch him play.