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Big Event Nationals Report

07/28/2021, 7:00pm CDT
By Tyre Pinder

There was a lot of great action this weekend at the 2021 Big Event Nationals hosted by Gym Time Hoops at Santa Fe Family Life Center and surrounding facilities. There were some exceptional players we observed that are highlighted.

Top Performers

KJ Thomas 5-10 PG 2024 HOH

One of the youngest players in the 17u division this weekend KJ Thomas plays more mature than his age suggests. A steady hand at the lead guard spot, Thomas used his quick first step and deceptive pace to get in the make plays. He was most effective in the mid-range using floaters and his vision to kick and dump off to open teammates. KJ will be entering his sophomore season at Randall High School in Amarillo, Texas and will be exciting to watch.

KJ Hicks 6-3 F 2023 Edmond Santa Fe Next Level

A powerful presence in the paint is an accurate description of Hick’s game, but it’s not all there is to be said. While his 6-3 frame allows him to bully smaller defenders, Hicks is also light on his feet. Too big for most guards and, too quick for front line players, Hicks is a mismatch more often than not. Watch out for the tweener this upcoming season at Edmond Santa Fe.

Malachi Stevens 6-10 C 2024 RLTC Prep GTH 4XIII

While still developing the young Stevens is light years ahead of where he was just months ago. Showing promise as a dominant rebounder and rim protector, Stevens offensive game must catch up with his natural defensive instincts.

Dawson Parker 6-0 CG 2023 Bishop McGuiness Next Level

 A great frame, smooth jump shot, and competitive enthusiasm were the things that jumped out to us immediately watching Dawson Parker in their opening game against LFG on Friday night. He showed to have that and more throughout the weekend. Effective in or off the ball Dawson was mostly used as a scorer for his Next Level squad. He was a huge factor in stretching the defense against a GTH team with a lot of length. Dawson’s strong play led his team to the final four.

Mack Guddell 5-10 CG 2024 Next Level 15u

Gets to his spots well in the mid-range, makes plays out of the dribble drive and flat out competes!

Mike Smith 6-3 CG Booker T Washington | GTH 4XIII

Good ball skills and a slithery frame help Smith get to his spots in the mid range where he is very effective. Comfortable going right and left a big improvement Smith has made is finishing through contact. Smith brought a lot of energy on defense and was a great in their championship run.

Deke Thompson 5-10 PG 2025 Jenks | PAE

The youngest player on our list Thompson is an upcoming prospect to watch out for. It was the first time we had seen Thompson, but he impressed with his smooth jumper, and court vision. Netting five three pointers in a single this weekend, that’s currently the strength of his game, but improved layer of finishing at the rim will take him to another level.

Evan Crotts 5-9 SG 2024 Next Level 15u

A sniper and steady contributor to his team. A sniper from deep he also was very good down the stretch as a ball handler for next level.

Kemarr Cyrus 2024 6th Man Oklahoma

is an intriguing prospect we saw this weekend. With an improved jumper he has only improved his slashing abilities and showed some lead guard flashes as well

 

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