Bantock was the top prospect on the weekend in 17U on anyone not wearing a Mountain Stars jersey. He dominated all weekend for Hardwood Elite Gold as he carried the scoring load and did it in a way that felt repeatable. He looked very comfortable operating in the midrange; he got to his spots with ease and knocked down shots consistently. He also cleaned the glass and finished through contact. He had 30+ points in a game that we watched and took over in another close game as well. When Hardwood Elite needed a bucket, everything ran through him, and he kept stepping up. The production speaks for itself, but it’s the feel and presence that stand out. This was a major step forward, and there’s real momentum building with his game that has us intrigued. Was this just a good weekend or did he make that big of a jump? We have to see more. 

Trent is a big wing with legit scoring ability from all over the floor. Standing at 6’7 with his athleticism and pure shot makes him a very versatile scorer. He has a nice looking shot from the three to the midrange and will hit them both at a high clip. He is a surprising athlete that can get down hill with his speed and get above the rim for dunks on unsuspecting defenders. He has the ability to initiate the offense and be a point forward. He protects the rim on defense and is very versatile.

Bantock is hitting his stride for Legend and turning into a consistent interior presence. At 6’7, he brings size that immediately impacts the game, averaging 10.7 points and 5.4 rebounds while anchoring the paint. His length makes him a reliable rim protector who alters shots and controls space in the lane. Offensively he’s comfortable with his back to the basket, finishing through contact and making smart reads. As his footwork continues to improve, he’s showing real potential to become a nightly double double threat and a tough matchup inside

Bantock has emerged as a new name that is demanding attention with his early-season plat, and it has Legend as a fun, yet deep team. The 6’6 forward is averaging 11.2 points to begin the season, already posting a double-double, and has a breakout 21-point, 6-block performance to show how he’s been impacting games. He rebounds with intent, alters shots, and finishes over defenders. As his confidence grows, his presence around the rim has made Legend harder to score on and tougher to handle inside. We want to see if he can continue this play as he allows Legend to be dynamic.