Walking around the Inspire Courts in Gilbert, Ariz., one gets the sense Dalen Terry, entering his third season with the Chicago Bulls, feels a comfort level and sense of youthful bliss you normally don't see from current NBA players at a grassroots basketball event.

Terry, 22, felt that sense of comfort while he and family members and close friends with ties to the game conducted the inaugural Dalen Terry Basketball Camp over the weekend at the Inspire Courts in Gilbert. That facility, after all, is a stone's throw from South Phoenix and Ahwatukee, the neighborhoods where the 6-foot-8 Terry grew up and cultivated a career than made him the No. 18 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. While growing up in The Valley, Terry always wanted to be play the game, learn more about the game, and most importantly, feel connected to the players who made it to the higher levels who grew up where he did.

"I wanted to do this camp because when I was a kid, I could never find out where pros from here had a camp at; I didn't know where to go," Terry said. "And if there was some camp here it was never free. I want these kids to know I'm exactly like them, same city, same places and play at the same courts. I want them to know they can do it, too."

Approximately 85 youth of both genders were in attendance learning the game, and most importantly, having fun with Terry, his coaching staff and the other campers. They worked on the basic elements of the game and also enjoyed more fun games such as knockout for prizes that were awarded at the end of each of the two days. Terry has an authentic connection to the city of Phoenix and other talented peers from the Valley of the Sun can genuinely feel it, so that influences them to follow suit. It's no wonder players from the region such as TyTy Washington, Koa Peat (the high school All-American from Perry of Gilbert) and Marcus Bagley volunteered their time towards the camp. Bagley was Terry's classmate at Aprende Middle School in Chandler.

After Aprende, Terry went on to Corona Del Sol (Tempe, Ariz.) for ninth and tenth grade and finished up his high school years at Hillcrest Prep (Phoenix, Ariz.). On the grassroots circuit, he played for Team Phoenix and AZ Power locally and the Compton Magic on the Adidas grassroots circuit. Terry had a near fanatical obsession for playing and his mother Fenise Yancy knew that clearly in his formative years, especially when he wanted to have a basketball tournament for his 10th birthday. One with teams entered, refs and standings. A dozen years later, Terry understands every kid may not have that approach to the game, but he wants Phoenix youth to feel inspired to pursue whatever dreams they may have.

"I knew I needed to do something (for the kids)," Terry said. "When I played at camps like this, I knew I had to make my mark; I knew the importance even then. Some kids are good, others may not be, but it's important they know they can try to do it."

Terry aims to make it an annual event and no matter where he takes his Dalen Terry Basketball Camp, working with Phoenix youth will always be special to him. After his high school days, Terry played two years at the University of Arizona. The weekend of August 24-25, he will conduct his camp in Tucson.

To sign up for the Tucson version of the Dalen Terry Basketball Camp, CLICK HERE.

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The Formula Zero Elite Camp is an event level event hosted by Milwaukee Bucks' All-Star and former Oakland (Calif.) and Weber State standout Damian Lillard. The three-day event was held at the The PHHacility in Phoenix with "Dame Dollar" and NBA player development coach Phil Beckner leading the on-court skills training for 30 elite players (actually 15 high school participants and 17 college level athletes) that wanted to get some insight on the training methods of one of the NBA's hardest-working players who developed into an eight-time NBA all-star from humble beginnings.

Lillard played for the Oakland Rebels travel club in Northern California in the late 2000's and was somewhat of an overlooked high school prospect in California's famed 2008 class. He was a Cal-Hi Sports all-state selection as a senior, averaging 22.4 points, 5.2 rebounds and 2.3 assists for a 23-9 club after committing to Weber State before his senior season began. From there is where Lillard's game took off after developing a unique training method to excel while many of his peers in high school plateaued.

The slogan for Formula One is "Character, Hard Work and Accountability" and is designed for players with a relentless passion to do things differently in order to take their game to the next level. The training model around Formula One has molded one of the best players in the NBA and this elite camp is a way for him to share that passion and training method with young players who aspire to get to the level Lillard has with the Bucks and Portland Trailblazers over the years.

We take a look at six of the standouts from the three-day event in front of NBA decision-makers:

High School Standouts

Mikel Brown Jr., DME Academy (Daytona Beach, Fla.) 6-2 2025
A terrific spot up shooter who should be in store for a fine senior season of high school after a transfer to a Sunshine Independent Athletic Association (SIAA) program. His ability to play make and score and his craftiness with the ball takes his spot up shooting to the next level.

Acaden Lewis, Sidwell Friends (Washington, D.C.) 6-2 2025
Followed up on his terrific play at the 2024 NPBA Top 100 camp with another standout grassroots performance. Lewis is crafty with the ball and knows when and where to attack or act as a setup man. Lewis gets it done with his live dribble passing and shot making ability from all over the court.

Darryn Peterson, Prolific Prep (Napa, Calif.) 6-5 2025
The top overall high school prospect at the event, Peterson is like a NFL running back whose pads don't make noise during practice because he is so fluid and his moves are smooth. Peterson can stop and explode into his move or shot as well as any high school or college player and is pushing the top players in the national class of 2025. Peterson recently announced his will spend his senior season in California at Prolific Prep and in that atmosphere should be a bonafide Mr. Basketball USA candidate for 2024-25.

College Standouts

V.J. Edgecombe, Baylor (2024), 6-5 SG
Explosive finisher in the open court was as good an athlete as any player in attendance. Edgecombe stand outs with his competitive fire and skill level as an attacking shooting guard. As he continues to develop a more reliable jumper will ultimately determine where he lands as a bonafide lottery pick for 2025. With continued improvement he could push towards the top five.

A?a Newell, Georgia (2024), 6-9 PG
Was an integral part of Montverde Academy's 2024 FAB 50 title team and could be a breakout performer in the SEC. Newell knows spacing and angles to get the ball in the interior and uses a variety of hooks and spins to be a formidable offensive threat. Newell's motor is a differnce-maker and his jump shot range will dictate his numbers as a college freshman.

Trent Perry, UCLA (2024), 6-4 PG
Will be competing for playing time in Westwood and his competitive nature and IQ will push his teammates in practice. Perry sees the game a few plays ahead, especially in transition, and was making some terrific open-court passes at Formula One. In the half court, Perry was knocking down his jumper and attacking defenders in an efficient manner.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

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As Team USA goes for its fifth straight men's basketball Olympic Gold Medal on August 10 (3:30 pm ET, NBC) against host France, we wanted to put into perspective what the Olympics has meant to American basketball development over the years.

To give it some perspective, Team USA was 143-6 all-time entering Olympic competition at this year's games, including the 5-3 "disaster" of 2004 when America took the Bronze medal. Overall, there is no big problem. Everyone always says the world has caught up to the U.S.A., but in reality, they still have a plenty ways to go.

Serbia led 76-63 with 10 minutes remaining in this year's semifinal contest vs. the USA with arguably the best player in the world on its team (Nikola Joki?) and still fell, 95-91. When Team USA had to get it done, it defended and played team ball. It wasn't all that surprising it made that comeback. It's how it got to this point that raises questions and/or doubts about the quality and usefulness of the American Olympic process.

There is no denying that the decision to use NBA players starting with the 1992 Olympics in Spain and coaching clinics around the world featuring some of the brightest minds over the last half century is the reason the world is so much better at the game we love. The Dream Team gave the world the motivation and our coaches gave the world the know how to get better at the game. Without that 1992 Dream Team, there perhaps is no Joki? today, or maybe a player of his caliber wouldn't have developed for another 50 years or so.

Many folks feel the development across the world has come at the expense of development here in the United States, but at the highest level, that development is curtailed.

There are two things that made the Dream Team work in 1992. tThe timing of its announcement and Team USA's 82-76 loss to the Soviet Union in the 1988 semifinals. If the late John Thompson and his group of college players (alongside David Robinson, who hadn't yet played pro ball but was the No. 1 pick of the 1987 NBA Draft) had won Gold in Seoul, South Korea, who knows if we are even having this discussion now. USA and the rest of the world was ready to see what would happen with NBA players and there was no better group than the guys on that 1992 Dream Team to make it a success. Perhaps it wouldn't have worked as well in 1988 or in 1996. Timing is very important and people forget the go-to players on this year's US Olympic team, LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Steph Curry, are significantly older than anyone on the 1992 Dream Team, which had the make and feel of a veteran national team.

Lost in the Dream Team's greatness is the lack of a tryout process. And there hasn't been one since.

Yes, USA Basketball has done a fine job at the youth level and are dominant in the 19U-16U age groups. But those players who dominate the younger levels are not necessarily the ones who dominate at the senior levels. Development happens at various stages for aspiring players and what the Olympic team is missing is a tryout process.

Having a tryout process would eliminate some of the issues that come with clashing NBA egos on a team and would help with chemistry. Now, NBA stars probably don't want to be part of the tryout process, as they don't want to give up the leverages they have worked at for years to attain as the world's best, but the positives would outweigh any backlash.

The positives of a tryout process are many. It would create an atmosphere of fairness, it would help foster a team culture (instead of a group of star players), and most importantly, would be great evaluation for NBA personnel, not to mention college and grassroots scouts for the younger players. It would also create what recent Olympic teams are missing: the ability for role players to increase their worldwide profile and young players to enjoy a marketing platform that would help the world know more about the up-and-coming and future pro stars. With the current state of college basketball and the NBA's reliance on players to enter the league who have been out of high school for less than a year, there are limited ?opportunities to market players to the point where they have built brand value and a faithful following prior to the draft. This would help in that area tremendously and be a win for everyone involved in the process.

The tryout should include non-NBA players and elite high school players, if the selection committee deems them worthy. Only a few might be worthy every four years, but after watching Cooper Flagg (last season's Mr. Basketball USA and now a Duke freshman) doing what he did against Team USA at a scrimmage, it would be meaningful to have that type of atmosphere in a formal tryout setting. Even for the players who didn't make the team, it would be a tremendous evaluation and marketing opportunity.

As NBA agent and marketing veteran Nate Jones points out, the Olympics are one of the few events left in terms of media platforms, where the masses still watch the game at one time. For an up-and-coming star to be siting on the bench or contributing in a way that is not the norm for a max contract NBA player, it would not only be a great opportunity, it would enhance the team and set a great example of what a team should be on on the world stage.

For anyone who attended an Olympic tryout prior to the formation of the Dream Team, it was more than an excellent evaluation tool. For Frank Burlison, a McDonald's All-American voters since the game's inception in 1977, the 1984 Olympic tryouts was one of the best settings and best basketball he ever evaluated. This coming from a person who has attended endless summer games since the 1970s to NBA Finals games featuring Michael Jordan. Even players who were cut from that '84 Olympic tryout, such as future NBA Hall of Famers John Stockton and Charles Barkley, got tremendous milage out of the experience.

Now, the 1984 team led by Jordan was one of the best teams of all-time that didn't feature NBA players. As the late Bobby Knight told the world before they could understand or were ready to hear from a coaching perspective, Jordan was that special of a talent and the team around him, which included Patrick Ewing and specialists such as sharp-shooter Steve Alford, was strong. It was evident when Thompson was putting his team together for 1988, it wasn't going to be as strong as the team in 1984. The tryout roster was not near the talent level of four years prior. Some felt Thompson was playing favorites when his incoming high school recruit Alonzo Mourning (the 1988 Mr. Basketball USA pick) was one of the last Olympic cuts. In reality, however, his talent level warranted a serious look despite just graduating from high school.

That brings us to our next two points. One, the talent level across the high school and grassroots landscape is not close to equal year over year. This is hardly ever never pointed out or analyzed by national scouts. Two, it wasn't the end of the world that Team USA lost an Olympic game. There is no secret the high school classes that made up the 1984 team were clearly stronger than the high school classes that created the talent poll for the 1988 team. The Class of 1985 is considered weak overall and it took a major hit when forward Ben Wilson of Siemon (Chicago, Ill.), was murdered just as his senior season was about to tip off in the fall of 1984. Perhaps as a graduated college senior, he could have helped Thompson and Team USA win gold.

We'll never know.

After the 1988 team lost in the semifinals in a competitive game to Arvydas Sabonis and the Soviet Union, the 1992 Dream Team's performance felt like a series of exhibition games. Still to this day, the Dream Team proved the point. Also, for a U.S. Olympic team, there is no shame in losing if the players are giving it their all like the 1988 team did. The novelty of the NBA players in FIBA events wore off fast. By the 1994 World Championships, in fact, they were more criticized than praised. The young team had talents such as Shawn Kemp and Derrick Coleman that were framed by the media as malcontents more often than great champions.

Heading into 1992, Team USA was 85-2, including the infamous 1972 Gold Medal loss to the Soviet Union. Since then, Team USA has only lost in the medal round once with a young team in 2004 that was void of great chemistry and leadership. Those issues were resolved by the 2008 Redeem Team led by the late Kobe Bryant, but perhaps those issues wouldn't have been there had the circumstances of making the team been different and accepted over the years.

The 2004 losses certainly wouldn't be looked at the same if the team wasn't handpicked by influential individuals and had a more open tryout process. For now, the process only favors NBA elites instead of being used as the ultimate developmental setting for our country's players.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

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This year's All-Star game was one to remember. With record-breaking temperatures, the WNBA brought the heat to Phoenix.

The 20th annual game drew 3.4 million viewers on ABC, making it the most-watched All-Star game in WNBA history. The third most viewed event ever across all networks, according to ESPN PR, viewership peaked at 4.2 million, over a 300 percent increase from last year.

This year's format was unique, marking the second year in history to debut Team WNBA vs. Team USA. While some all-star games present as a fun, dynamic, flowing experience, this year's matchup was highly competitive, as reported by several players and coaches.

"We have to be locked in, our time together is so short," said USA Olympian Breanna Stewart prior to Friday's three-point contest. "Also knowing what happened last time we had Team USA vs. the All-Stars. It didn't go our way."

With that said, Stewart's been in this position before. In 2021, Team WNBA defeated Team USA, 93-85 in which Arike Ogunbowale was crowned MVP winner with 26 points. Four years later, it's a bit of déjà vu for Stewart and company. And there's something about Ogunbowale cooking up against the USA Basketball National Olympic Team.

In front of a crowd of 16,407 attendees at the Footprint Center, Team WNBA once again defeated Team USA 117-109. After admitting that she had pulled out of the Olympics due to "politics," Ogunbowale captured her second All-Star MVP against Team USA with 34 points, three rebounds, six assists, and two steals on 10-20 field goal shooting. Although it's the All-Star game, Ogunbowale wouldn't let Team USA stop her and her squad from competing at the highest level.

"They're [Team USA] getting ready to play, and they want to win," said Ogunbowale post-game. "We're not going to get embarrassed as well. They have plays they've been practicing. We just want to come out hard, and I love competition. If I hear someone is trying to beat me, I'm going to try to beat them twice as hard."

Your 2024 WNBA All-Star MVP Arike Ogunbowale #WNBAAllStar pic.twitter.com/WsFd7mKPsZ

— Sara Jane Gamelli (@SaraJGamelli) July 21, 2024

After scoring zero first-half points, the Dallas Wings star erupted for 21 third-quarter points, including 5-7 shots from beyond the arc. In true Arike fashion, the guard sauced up several guards with highly contested shots. Ogunbowale's 34 points were the most points ever scored in an all-star game, and the guard was extremely humble prior to the big matchup. Not one guard could stop her, including Jackie Young, Kelsey Plum, and Jewell Loyd.

In the post-game, Ogunbowale admitted that Team WNBA head coach Cheryl Miller "called her out at halftime." In front of everyone, Miller told her, "Just take a deep breath and play your game," said Ogunbowale. "I guess you guys saw what happened."

Under coach Miller, Nneka Ogwumike (14 points), Angel Reese (12 points), Allisha Gray (16 points), and Kelsey Mitchell (13 points) all contributed points in double figures. For Chicago Sky's Reese, she became the first rookie in WNBA history to tally a double-double, which included 11 boards. Able to snag rebounds over Brittney Griner and Alyssa Thomas, Reese continues to show why she's the WNBA leader in offensive boards.

Although Reese and Clark are known for being opponents on the court, a definitive moment gave fans a chilling glimpse of the level of talent these two players produce. Able to split the defense, Clark unselfishly found Reese in the paint with the dime bounce. Having only finished with four points, Clark tallied 10 assists, a rookie WNBA All-Star record. This comes a week after Clark became the single-game assist leader with 19 against the Wings.

Aside from calling Ogunbowale the best "one-on-one player in the league," Clark, without question, opted to remain on the bench while Arike continued her dominance. Although ready for a break, Clark seemingly enjoyed her first WNBA All-Star experience.

"I had a lot of fun just playing, enjoying the atmosphere, talking with people courtside," said

For Team USA, Breanna Stewart and showcased their dominance, scoring a combined 53 points. With Stewart leading the way with 31 points and 10 rebounds, Diana Taurasi tallied 14 points, including a game-starting trey for the hometown fans. With 37 points off the bench, Griner was the only other player to contribute points in double figures.

Heading into the Olympics, Stewart was quick to point out a lack of defense from Team USA. Committing 14 costly turnovers, the Olympic team once found themselves down by a 20-point deficit.

"Understanding that we just gave up 117 points is kind of crazy," said Stewart post-game. "We don't want to peak too soon, and we know we can improve on a lot. I speak for A'ja [Wilson] here. We're excited to get to London and really focus on this team and what our ultimate goal is."

Overall, the experience was jovial and eventful. With the popularity of WNBA live, the weekend festivities drew in several celebrities, including Aubrey Plaza, Pitbull, Sheryl Swoops, Shannon Sharpe, and others.

Following one of the most exciting WNBA All-Star weekends, Team USA will play Japan this afternoon, beginning at 3 p.m. EST. Starting Aug 1, the Women's National Team will suit up against Belgium, and Germany on Aug 4. The USA Women's National Team is seeking their eighth straight gold medal.

Stay tuned for more WNBA related articles. Click here

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator, and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets. She focuses on Women's Basketball, both college and the WNBA, and currently resides in the Connecticut/NYC area. SJ received her undergraduate degree in economics from the University of Connecticut, with a minor in business administration.

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Allisha Gray, of the Atlanta Dream made history Friday night, crowned winner of the WNBA 3-Point Contest and Skills Challenge at WNBA All-Star weekend.

PHOENIX- Prior to the WNBA events on Friday night, Allisha Gray continuously had the media in hysterics. She's made it clear she's visiting Disney World during Olympic Break. And when asked about the all-star game MVP, Gray responded, "I'm just here to have fun." In true Gray fashion, the guard remained humble as always. A woman of few words, little did the world know what she was about to accomplish.

Friday night at Footprint Center, Gray finished the evening a few bucks richer—well, $115,150, to be exact. For the first time in WNBA history, the 6-foot Atlanta Dream guard was crowned the 3-Point Contest and Skills Challenge winner. Gray joins Becky Hammon and Sabrina Ionescu as the only current and former players to win both contests throughout their careers.

Allisha Gray took home more than 62 percent of her salary

On the historic night, Gray donned nothing but smiles. Days before All-Star weekend, WNBA Players Association president Nneka Ogwumike announced that Aflac would supplement with a $55,000 bonus to the three-point contest and skills challenge winner. Indeed, a fantastic way to support women's basketball, Gray took home nearly 62 percent of her pay. She makes an annual salary of $185,000 and signed an extension with the Dream in 2023.

After the monumental performances, Gray told ESPN's Holly Rowe she may start a business with the extra earnings. "Now that I think about it, had a good nap. Maybe I'll go on a little golfing spree, shopping spree," said Gray.

As part of the WNBA's collective bargaining agreement (CBA), Gray earned a total of $5,150 from both events. As women's basketball evolves and grows, companies must continue to invest to increase the prize pool in future events.

Aflac made $110,000 in contributions to the winner of both events

Contributions from Aflac are a testament to the growth and direction of women's basketball, especially with the record-breaking viewership the league has seen just halfway through the season. Although the players were unaware of the contributions heading into the events, Ogwumike expressed her excitement and hope for future investors.

"I love that Aflac came in and stepped forward and really displayed their investment," said Ogwumike Friday afternoon. "They stepped in, and I think that's what's most important. We are in a very transformational and pivotal moment in women's sports, and I'm just really grateful to be actively experiencing it."

After all, the former Gamecock guard's Instagram handle is graytness_15. An avid gamer, her twitch name is the same. So how can you count out a player with "graytness" in their name?

Allisha Gray edged out Jonquel Jones 22-21 to win the 3-Point Contest

Phoenix Mercury's Sophie Cunningham, Brittney Griner, and Connecticut Sun's Mabrey Mabrina participated in the skills challenge. However, due to a global outage, Erica Wheeler could not participate (flight was cancelled), so Indiana Fever's Kelsey Mitchell stepped in. Not only did Gray take home the victory, but she also defeated two hometown favorites, Cunningham and Griner. Competitively, the skills challenge is a timed event used to showcase passing, shooting, and dribbling skills.

For the three-point contest, Gray competed with five total candidates— Jonquel Jones (New York Liberty), Stefanie Dolson (Washington Mystics), Marina Mabrey (Connecticut Sun), and Kayla McBride (Minnesota Lynx). Gray finished with 23 points, in which she sunk a deep Starry ball on the left hash. Jonquel Jones tallied 25, pushing herself into the final round against Gray.

Allisha Gray kicks off the 3-point contest with 23 points, including a deep starry shot!#WNBAAllStar pic.twitter.com/Yd73jzlhxT

— Sara Jane Gamelli (@SaraJGamelli) July 20, 2024

The final round was as exhilarating as anyone could've expected. Although both were slightly cold from beyond the arc, Jonquel Jones had an opportunity to claim victory, except she fell one ball short. With seconds to go, Jones missed the final shot, which excited Gray to the fullest. At 22-21, it was at that moment Gray was declared the winner of the 2024 WNBA 3-Point Challenge.

Admitting she was "nervous" competing against Jones, Gray had her biggest supporters on the sideline. Notorious for sporting goggles during games, the Dream guard admitted they aren't for vision. However, best friend A'ja Wilson was seen hilariously donning the same goggles courtside. In addition, Dream co-owner Renee Montgomery was seen cheering her on all night.

Gray jokes dinner is on her, as long as her team plans it

Post-event, Gray comedically told the media she's still a "cheap person." However, in light of her earnings, the next dinner is on her.

"I got them, dinner on me," said Gray. "They just gotta let me know early... because I'm still a very cheap person. For my team, yeah, they have to plan it, I'll just pay the bill."

In her 8th WNBA season, Gray will make her second all-star selection for the second consecutive year. Although it's been a trying year for the Dream, especially with injuries, Gray remains the leading scorer for Atlanta, putting up 15.6 points per game. The 2017 Rookie of the Year, there's a possibility she could make history tonight, possibly winning the All-Star MVP.

If you're looking to watch the 2024 WNBA All-Star game, Team USA will matchup against team WNBA. Set to tip off at 8:30 EST, the event will air on ESPN.

Stay tuned for more WNBA related articles. Click here

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets.?She has a focus on Women's Basketball, both college and the WNBA, and currently resides in the Connecticut/NYC area. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.

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Just as these are perilous times in America, grassroots basketball is at a perilous juncture in its current form. Judging from what we evaluated during the first July live period, independent operations (and operators) during live period events are at a critical crossroads in their very existence. It's very similar to other companies or entities offering products or services: The costs to operate keep getting higher as the quality of the product gets worse. We examine why this is happening.

1. The Scholastic Live Period Has Caused Major Change
After the NCAA corruption scandal of 2017-18, there was an attempt to make scholastic basketball a bigger part of the recruiting process by implementing two live weekends in June for high school teams. This started in 2019 and it's safe to say it has caused major change to July. After the June scholastic period, D1 colleges have a good read on their main high school recruiting targets. Since they are also targeting less high school players overall because of the NCAA Transfer Portal, July just has a different feel, especially among the independent events. With college coaches spread out at so many live events, much of the electricity and anticipation for a great game or a great evaluation setting has disappeared at independent events. College coaches don't seem to be going the extra mile to unearth a new revelation when they already know the talent levels are way down in comparison to pre-COVID levels. And armed with the knowledge they gained in June, they can follow and hone in on their main targets.

2. Players Are Wising Up
To be clear, events like Peach Jam (EYBL Finals) and adidas' 3SSB Palmetto Road Championships are still terrific July events with much of the same atmosphere we saw before the onset of the June live period. Those events, however, are geared towards elite, high major prospects. There are lower level elite prospects playing in the independent sector and the talent pool is getting worse every summer. A fallout of this is some D1 prospects are realizing they don't have to play endless July games if they feel their recruitment is where it needs to be and or they played well during spring and June. We know of at least three D1 prospects that simply chose not play with their travel team or a travel team in the first July period. The value of doing so is still there, but it's clearly not as strong as it once was. Parents sometimes still foster unrealistic expectations of their son going high major or even getting a scholarship, but the picture is getting more clear for them each passing summer. The messaging certainly is more powerful when they are paying more all-around to have their son play in front of such few college coaches.

3. Shoe Company Circuits Have The Fat
With Under Armour Association in Atlanta, Adidas 3SSB in Rock Hill, S.C., NXTPRO League in Mesa, Ariz. and Nike Peach Jam and Prelude 32 in Augusta, Ga., there is certainly less independent teams or independent grassroots coaches operating less travel teams under one umbrella. Many big businesses like to "cut the fat" so to speak, but shoe company-sponsored circuits are rounding up as many teams for their circuits as possible and with two more circuits emerging, July is definitely watered down. There is no meeting spot like Las Vegas was before the corruption scandal, there are few battles across shoe company lines and the teams are spread out. For independent programs to survive (and when we say survive we mean play in live period events in front of D1 college coaches) they are going to have to come together to some degree and be smarter on how they operate events. There simply isn't enough fat to feed everyone, especially with the rising costs of doing business (insurance, referees, scorer's tables, trainers, etc.).

4. Still Some Independent Diamonds In The Rough
Even with so many events in so many different places at once, the tireless recruiter has an even bigger advantage now. He or she will go the extra mile to uncover a sleeper. And trust me when I say there are still some quality D1 prospects on independent clubs, such as 6-foot-5 2025 shooting guard Anthony Moore of Develop 17U/(Lincoln HS, Stockton, Calif.), among others. The drawback is having to spend more precious time traveling to gyms to find prospects such as Moore and not having more of them under one roof. Smart college coaches simply can't afford to sit through multiple games without viewing a prospect close to their level. They simply won't come back, will move on to other targets or simply sit it out. Going forward, there will need to be more incentive not to play on an established shoe company team and there is no guarantee all five circuits will be around in 2025.

5. Senior Season Greatly Matters Again
The 1982-83 season marked the beginning of the basketball early signing period in November. If prospects knew where they wanted to attend college and said institution was comfortable with offering a scholarship, a player could sign and play his senior season without the pressure of trying to earn a scholarship. Prior to that season, senior season performance was still relatively important, but the early signing period put a premium on junior year and underclass performance and it became no secret many of the prestigious high school honors (such as McDonald's All-American selection) had little to do with senior season performance. Over 40 years later, however, the importance of the senior season is making a comeback for a vast majority of potential D1 prospects. Colleges are using less of their scholarship allotment on high school seniors, and they often wait until the spring as roster turnover is a season-to-season reality. Seniors can play their way into a scholarship, because colleges are waiting a bit longer to offer high school prospects and because they have to wait to see which returning players will jump into the NCAA Transfer Portal in March. On the flip side, a legitimate scholarship offer in the summer and fall shouldn't be taken lightly. This hope to get "something bigger" is a risk for a high school senior because that offer (or roster spot) may not be available in the spring.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

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Originating from SEC rival universities, A'ja Wilson and Angel Reese find themselves a top of the WNBA player rankings.

What a week it's been for Angel Reese and A'ja Wilson. Wilson, of the Las Vegas Aces, was named Western Conference player of the week. Similarly, Reese, of the Chicago Sky, was crowned the Eastern Conference Player of the Week, including games on June 27 through July 7.

Reese, the former no. 7 overall pick, averaged 16.8 points, 14 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. Although the Sky finished 2-3 over a five-game span, the rookie put up a career-high 27 points on 8-13 field goal shooting against the Seattle Storm. The game prior, "Chi-Town Barbie" notched a career-high 19 boards against the Atlanta Dream. With victories over the Storm and Dream, Reese has been relentless on the glass. Although some criticize her inability to finish at the rim, she leads the league in offense boards — by a mile. She's a fighter down below, and now she's classified in the same category as the all-time greats.

Angel Reese becomes the first player in WNBA history to put up 10 consecutive double-doubles in a single season surpassing Candace Parker (9 in 2015) pic.twitter.com/6Aac5nyzgN

— Ballislife Womens Basketball (@ballislifewbb_) June 30, 2024

Reese has made history in multiple ways in a week filled with awkward post-game pressers and social media chatter. She totaled her 13th consecutive double-double, passing the great Candace Parker for a WNBA all-time record. Putting up such numbers close to halftime, Reese accomplished the feat by the third quarter, and against an admirable Storm team. Now halfway through the season, she finds herself deep in the Rookie of the Year conversation alongside Caitlin Clark.

With that said, Sky guard Chennedy Carter didn't hold back after a post-game presser with ION. While the Rookie of the Year award verdict is still debatable, Reese earned her first WNBA All-Star nod in her rookie season. In her increasing list of accomplishments, she becomes the first rookie to win a Player of the Week award. What's more impressive was her dominant performance against the reigning champions. It's not every day you're given the opportunity to matchup against A'ja Wilson, and Reese understood the assignment, at least offensively. In the loss against the Aces, the Sky star tallied 18 points and 11 rebounds.

"Barbie [Angel Reese] is rookie of the year, there's no other way to put it," said Carter. Named Rookie of the month in June, Reese continues to make headlines.

As for , her energy is unmatched on and off the court. The heavy favorite to win her third MVP award, the former Gamecock averaged 25.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. During the stint, she managed to become the Aces all-time leading scorer. Passing Sophia Young-Malcolm with 4,301 points, Wilson's ability to accomplish this task only in her seventh season is remarkable. This time, she's etched her name in the history books, earning player of the week for the 19th time in her career. Throughout her illustrious vocation, Wilson is now no. 7 all-time in earning the honor.

Taking the league by storm, Wilson's emotions from last year's MVP results have translated to success on the court. Averaging a double-double for the first time in her career, the Aces center is putting up 27 points, 10.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.8 steals, and 2.7 blocks. Putting up more than four points compared to last season, Wilson has added a lethal addition to her game--- a three-point shot. We are talking about a superstar who didn't hit her first three until 2022. The latest addition to her game could be something fierce.

A’ja Wilson scored 31 and extended her WNBA record for most consecutive 20-point regular season games (20).

Angel Reese had 18 points, 11 rebounds and tied Candace Parker’s WNBA record for most consecutive double-doubles (9).

@LVAces pic.twitter.com/Jrjffn1I5V

— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) June 28, 2024

With only two deep shots in last year's finals, we've been witnessing the evolution of Wilson's pre-game three-point shots. While that's translated to the court, the Center's drawn the likes and recent attention of NBA star LeBron James and Raiders Maxx Crosby. Just last game, Wilson matched a career-high 3-4 from downtown (75 percent) against Dallas, and a masterful 31 points against the Chicago Sky. With a favorable matchup against Angel Reese, Wilson finished with 10 free throws made alone from the stripe.

From rookie to the vet, women's basketball is in great hands. We are witnessing historic seasons from both athletes, the top two rebounders in the WNBA. Earning player of the month in June and July, Wilson will look to capture her third straight award before the start of the Olympics.

A'ja Wilson and the Las Vegas Aces (13-7) will next face the Storm in Seattle on June 10. Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky(8-12) will host the Atlanta Dream on Wednesday night.

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Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Manager for Ballislife Bets. She has a focus on the Women's Basketball and the NBA. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration

The post Angel Reese, A'ja Wilson named WNBA players of the week appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.

The 168-team Boys Cali Live '24 June Scholastic Live Period event in Roseville, Calif. concluded on Sunday with first place pool finishers playing another first place finisher in a de-facto championship game. There were 42 pools in all and many standouts across the board. There were tons of players to evaluate, and Cali Live '24 helped many in their recruitment during a scholastic setting. Most of all, it gave every player a chance, a fairly equal opportunity to be seen, and that's what the two June live period weekends designed for high school teams are all about. In this report, we'll talk a look at the overall themes of the event.

1. Being A Keen Evaluator Has Never Been More Important
While it's true college coaches don't concentrate on high school underclassmen as much as they once did and juniors don't commit at a high rate, it's also true the evaluations of them are more important than ever. Even if coaches at a certain level know they are not going to successfully recruit a particular player, they have the knowledge a healthy percentage of recruits will eventually end up in the NCAA Transfer Portal. The portal has quickly become its own cottage industry. The key is projecting those transfers portaling up to a higher level or portaling down to the level they should have been recruited at in the first place. The recruiter that knows this will position himself accordingly and foster relationships with players he already knows he won't have on his roster as a freshman. Evaluating a player for what level he'll be recruited is many respects is not as important as what level he'll eventually play at down the line.

2. Being Realistic Has Never Been More Important
We've stressed on this website over the years how important it is for players and parents to have realistic recruiting goals. In a nutshell, players need to get advice from an experienced person who won't benefit if they make it to the NBA or a big-time college and from another veteran observer who won't be hurt emotionally or financially if they don't. (Read that again.). There are many players who play at a level that would have earned them a cinch D1 scholarship 10 years ago that are no longer getting those looks. Those same level of players have to put their ego aside and realize a D2 scholarship is their realistic level and not shun non-D1 colleges. It's all about getting in the system with some legitimate stats and game film (i.e. Synergy). That is the name of the game and a huge part of the recruiting process. Many recruits used to go to the highest level possible, but since the advent of NIL three years ago this July and officially paying college players on the horizon, that is not a financially sound move. It's much more financially advantageous to put up numbers at a lower level and portal up to a school that realizes you can play at a high level. An all-conference level player can potentially earn life-changing money in the current NIL climate.

3. Arizona Hasn't Cooled Down Since COVID-19
It's no secret because of various COVID-19 restrictions along political lines, the state of Arizona has been a hotbed for talent since the outbreak of the pandemic over four years ago. Based on what we saw at Cali Live '24 and Section 7 the week prior, there is no signs of that slowing down. There is no question the Arizona teams part of its state association (AIA) helped make Cali Live '24 a better recruiting atmosphere for college coaches. And with players such as 2027 center Darrius Wabbington of Sunnyslope (Phoenix, Ariz.) and 2028 guard Aiden Diggs of Williams Field (Gilbert, Ariz.) in the fold for the next few years, having Arizona teams as part of the June Scholastic Live Period will be beneficial for any live period event. This doesn't even include all the talent and high major size found at various academy-type programs across the Valley of the Sun. This talent surge has been part of a process that started because of its warm weather and the price of housing in other areas of the region such as Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area. There is simply more talent to choose from and college coaches spend more than in the Phoenix metro than ever before.

4. Nothing Beats One-Stop Shopping
Part of the reason for the advent of the June scholastic Live Period was to get high school coaches involved in the recruiting and evaluation process. That is happening and almost all scouts and college coaches are in agreement the scholastic-based evaluation is a key part of the recruiting process. Some felt an actual high school setting with be beneficial to the process, but June evaluation is not a high school playoff game atmosphere. There are no cheerleaders and in some respects the score doesn't matter. It's about getting a good evaluation and venues such as the 12-court Roebbelen Center used for Cali Live '24 is the way to go in the future. College Coaches want to evaluate as many good teams and players as possible without having to get in their car to drive to another gym. Having the best teams' starting times staggered over the course of the day also helps.

5. Nobody Knows The Future
We know Cali Live '25 will be back down in Southern California and it will reportedly be at the Ladera Sports Center in Orange County. Beyond that, however, no one knows what the long-future holds in terms of the NCAA recruiting calendar. We know the NCAA is due to pay out 2.7 billion to former collegiate athletes (which most of the money going to Power 5 football players) if a federal judge approves the terms of the House vs. NCAA antitrust case. If that settlement is not agreed to, the NCAA will have a long road in terms of legal bills and potentially paying out more than 2.7 billion should the case go to trial. The back damages are related to name, image and likeness (NIL) restrictions and we figured the settlement would catch the eyes of older players who feel their basic rights have been violated, too. Sure enough, on June 10, 10 members of the 1983 N.C. State men's basketball NCAA championship team sued the NCAA and the Collegiate Licensing Company for unauthorized NIL use over many years and more recently, members of the 2008 Kansas title team and 16 athletes total joined in a lawsuit on similar grounds. Where does this leave the NCAA? Well, if it has to pay out damages to the N.C. State and Kansas team and other older former NCAA athletes, who knows if the organization will exist its current form five years from now. The whole recruiting industry could look different, but rest assured the recruiting services and major recruiting networks will still function. How the scholastic period and NCAA recruiting calendar looks in five years is difficult to prepare for based on these lawsuits.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

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Reese, drafted by the Chicago Sky no. 7 overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft, is the only rookie to average a double-double on the season.

To all the critics who doubted Angel Reese, rest assured she's meant for this league. Not only is she destined to become a star in the WNBA, she made history this afternoon. With some worried about how exactly the forward's game would translate to the professional league, today was more than enough proof that she's poised to be one of the greatest ever to grace the game. Reese continues to make headlines this afternoon with her fashion expertise, swag, and confidence. And that confidence has translated into poetry on the court.

In the Chicago Sky's camp day 83-72 victory over the Dallas Wings, Reese finished with a career-high 18 rebounds and 16 points. Accompanied by two steals, "Chi-Town Barbie" became the first rookie in WNBA history to record seven straight double-doubles. Eight of those 18 boards came on the offensive end, leading to Chicago's 48-22 dominance in the paint. Her colossal game on the rebounds came just a week after she scored a career-high 20 points against the Connecticut Sun. +17 on the floor, Reese added three assists, and shot 7-13 from the floor.

Sure, the Dallas Wings are dealing with multiple injuries however, head coach Latricia Tramell chose to display a bigger lineup today.

With Natasha Howard back in the lineup on a minutes restriction, Reese had a field day in the early matchup. And she did so against Howard, Monique Billings, Teaira McCowan, Morgan Bertsch, and Stephanie Soares—the third-leading team in rebounds per game (35.8). For the record, not one of those front-court players is listed below 6 foot 2. Her monumental performance was truly a testament to who Reese is, especially against a Dallas team that ranks second in the league in paint points. It's a tough task to win in the WNBA, let alone rebound over women who are 6 foot 5 and above.

Angel Reese makes WNBA history by having her seventh consecutive game with a double-double the rookie record was held by Tina Charles previously pic.twitter.com/Jy653XSBCd

— Ballislife Womens Basketball (@ballislifewbb_) June 20, 2024

In fact, in her post-game interview, she admitted she watched a lot of films about Dallas. Always up for the "dirty work," Reese expressed her desire to do so.

"I'll step in, I'll mess up my nails, lashes, and stuff like that, just for my teammates," said Reese in a social media post by the Chicago Sky. "I'm willing to do whatever for this team." She represents attributes every team would wish for in their franchise start, heart, grit, hustle, and so on.

She now enters into a conversation with historic athletes who paved the way for women's basketball. Some of the greats to ever step foot on the court--- Sylvia Fowles, Elena Delle Donne, and Candace Parker, to name a few. On pace to break Fowles's season offensive rebounding record, Reese has nothing but praise for the women who were the early trailblazers in women's basketball. Third in the league in rebounds, Reese leads the entire WNBA with 68 offensive rebounds. That puts her ahead of some of most elite--- A'ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, and Alyssa Thomas.

Reminding the broadcasters she has a close relationship with Fowles, Reese doubled down on her desire to win.

"I just want to do whatever it takes to win, and rebounding is what I do to win," said Reese postgame.

With her seven-straight double-double, Reese is off to a historic rookie season, chasing Fowles for the record at just 22 years old. With 11 rebounds at the half, the Baltimore native broke previous double-double records set by Cindy Brown and Tina Charles. Averaging 12.4 points and 10.8 rebounds on the season, she's the only rookie to average double figures this season. With the unfortunate injury news to Cameron Brink, she's now set herself far apart in the rookie class.

Angel, you gotta stop. Your game too tough. Your swag too different. #skytown pic.twitter.com/dx6VoLeXlg

— Chicago Sky (@chicagosky) June 20, 2024

The Sky was previously riding a four-game skid before today, marking losses against the Dream, Sun, Mystics, and Fever. Reese and her teammates gave the younger fans something to cheer about in the first of Chicago's annual Camp Day games. Not new to the league, Camp Day allows kids to attend an WNBA game, perhaps for the first time. A glimpse at their favorite players is special on this day, as it is crucial for the exposure and excitement of women's basketball at a young age. With thousands of children in attendance, Reese was ecstatic to receive the victory when asked about her personal performance.

"Man, I'm just happy we finally won," Reese told ESPN. "I'm excited to be in this league, and win some more."

Second behind Caitlin Clark in points, Reese leads the entire rookie class in rebounds per game (10.8), charity stripe attempts and makes, field goal attempts and makes, and steals. She's certainly making her case for the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year Award.

While much chatter has surrounded other players, we can't forget Reese, a bonafide national champion and four-year star at LSU under head coach Kim Mulkey. Drafted alongside Gamecock legend Kamilla Cardoso, many wondered how the college rivals would fit in Teresa Weatherspoon's front court. While there are contentious times with the media, she continues to put up impressive numbers night in and night out.

Standing at 6 foot 3, Reese also put up a double against the Fever, Mystics, Sun, Dream, and Liberty. Out of those seven games, three of those teams are in the top five in terms of rebounding. Today, we saw relentless aggression to rebound and put back several second-chance opportunities. A consistent mid-range or outside jumper would make Reese a triple threat.

Admitting she's excited to grow on ESPN, she's a genuine candidate for rookie of the year, and keeps dominating the only way she knows how--- with winning plays.

Improved to 5-9 on the season, Reese and the Chicago Sky will take on the Indiana Fever at home, Sunday evening.

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Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets.?She has a focus on the Women's Basketball and the NBA. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration

The post Angel Reese makes WNBA double-double history appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.

The purpose of the NBPA Top 100 Camp is to help in the development of the world's elite high school-aged basketball players and give them a taste of what it is like to play in the NBA. The NBA is an exclusive group (there has been less than 5,000 NBA players all-time since the league's inception) and this exclusive camp, held annual at the Disney Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Fla., has featured some of the biggest names in basketball over the past 30 years, from the likes of Kevin Durant, Anthony Edwards, Jaylen Brunson, Kyrie Irving and James Harden, plus a plethora of other future pros.

There is no doubt plenty from the 2024 crop of 110 campers will one day play in the NBA, but for now it was all about competing, learning and getting better, not to mention performing well in front of scouting representatives of every NBA team and hundreds of college coaches.

There was roughly 11 players on each of the camp's 10 teams coached by current or just retired NBA players going through a coaching mentorship program put on by the NBPA. The four-day camp was also one of attrition, as the participants play NBA regulation length games with NBA rules and on the last two days of the camp, each team played three games in a seven-hour period.

When the dust settled, the Houston Rockets team used balance and teamwork to post a 9-0 record, the last one a 120-119 championship game victory over a New York Knicks team that came into the contest 6-2. It was actually the Rockets' second victory over the Knicks, as they beat that team to start off the camp's final day, 106-101, in a competitive game. Even though the Rockets were no stranger to the attrition themselves, they did a good job of taking quality shots, hitting their free throws in seven of nine games, and making timely 3-pointers, particularly by 6-foot-5 2025 (rising senior) point guard Brayden Burries of Roosevelt (Eastvale, Calif.) and 6-foot-8 2025 wing Shon Abaev of Calvary Christian Academy (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.).

The Rockets played the first contest versus the Knicks without Burries, who was arguably the top guard in attendance with his strong frame, powerful drives, timely passing, clutch shot-making and presence. Rockets coach Terrance Mann of the L.A. Clippers had others step up in his absence, as five players scored in double figures with two more on the 10-man roster going for nine points. Mike Williams, a 6-foot-1 2025 guard from Jackson Academy (Miss.) and the son of former NBA guard and Jackson State coach Mo Williams, particularly stepped up with 16 points, including 2-of-5 3-pointers and 6-of-6 free throws, to go along with six rebounds and four assists. Williams' rebounding from the guard position, his instincts on defense and change of pace on offense was a huge lift for Mann all week at camp.

Seven-foot-1 2025 center Malachi Moreno of Great Crossing (Georgetown, Ky.) matched up with all-star selection, 7-foot 2025 Eric Reibe of Bullis School (Washington, D.C.), and came up with a double-double of 16 points and 12 rebounds. The left-handed Reibe was the most effective player on the court with 25 points, including 3-of-6 3-pointers, and added six rebounds and two assists. Reibe has a terrific feel and plays a style similar to former Kansas great Raef LaFrentz but with more shooting range and more ground covering. Six-foot-8, 250-pound 2025 Zymicah Wilkins of Christ School (Arden, N.C.) had a great impact in both games versus the Rockets with his power game, motor and relentlessness in crunch time. Wilkins finished the first contest with 17 points.

Burries returned for the eighth game, one in which Houston jumped out to a 29-10 lead over the Indian Pacers and never looked back in a 106-96 victory. He finished with 17 points, five rebounds and five assists. Moreno led seven in double figures with 19 points and eight rebounds. The center made all five of his free throws, but the rest of the Rockets were 8-of-18 in that second to last game.

After shooting so well from the charity stripe in its first seven games, that performance was an omen for the final game, as weary free throw legs and the never-say-die attitude of the Knicks kept them in the championship contest in the second half after trialing by as many as 19 points early. The Rockets were without Elijah Williams, a 6-foot-6 2026 (rising junior) wing out of Brother Rice (Bloomfield Hills, Mich.) and the son of Detroit Pistons head coach Monty Williams, for the final two games and without Mike Williams in the championship rematch, but gutted out the one-point victory after building a 64-50 halftime lead by coming up with a defensive stop after Burries missed a free throw (worth two points) with under five seconds remaining in the game.

Reibe hurt the Rockets, in the first contest, but was neutralized more in the rematch, finishing with 14 points and five rebounds while not attempting a shot from 3-point range. Moreno matched him with 11 points and 10 rebounds, as he finished the camp with three triple doubles while missing another by just one rebound. Moreno is a team-oriented player with a great pace and understanding of the game and once he gets into his offensive move and makes his decisions on the block quicker, he's going to be an excellent college player. While Reibe was kept in check, the Rockets simply had no answer for Wilkins in the rematch, as he kept his team in it with relentless offensive rebounding, tough shot making on the move and even hit a key 3-pointer while the Knicks were making their second half run. He finished with 29 points and 14 rebounds and impressed college coaches and the NBPA Top 100 selection committee with his inspired play.

Burries finished the title game with 24 points, including 4-of-6 3-pointers, despite missing six of 10 free throws. As a team, the fatigued Rockets made 14-of-32 free throws, but dug deep to make 10-of-20 3-pointers. The leading scorer for the victors was 6-foot-1 2025 point guard Acaden Lewis of Sidwell Friends (Washington, D.C.), who made 4-of-7 3-pointers and finished the title game with 25 points, five rebounds and eight assists. Lewis impressed college coaches with his crafty offensive package, ability to finish in either direction and dominate in the half court, particularly in pick-n-roll sets. The Rockets don't go unbeaten without Lewis' efforts, particularly his 26-point effort in a 117-112 win over a L.A. Lakers team that might have been the camp's second most talented one. He made 4-of-9 3-pointers in that contest and was dominant enough to over the final two days to be selected to the camp's 10-man all-star team.

It's hard to envision the Rockets going unbeaten without the contributions of 6-foot-9 power 2025 forward Sebastian Williams-Adams of St. John's (Houston, Texas) as well. In the win over the L.A. Lakers, he had an incredible 11 offensive rebounds in a 18-point, 12-rebound performance and sealed the win a pass interception and close-out dunk. Twice he came up with a defensive play, steal and dunk to seal a win for his team and joined Burries and Lewis as Rockets players on the camp all-star team. Williams-Adams literally didn't take a bad shot all week and had 20 points on 8-of-14 shooting in the championship game win. Williams-Adams is also a complete defender and for the week shot 61-of-94 (.648) from the field in nine camp games.

Jerry Easter II, a 6-foot-4 2025 shooting guard from La Lumiere who was our top rated performer at the recent Pangos All-American Camp, had 12 points, eight rebounds and four assists for the Rockets in the title game. Easter also contributed key defense and steady ball-handling and didn't force it much when the shots weren't dropping. Six-foot-8 2026 forward Sebastian Wilkins also provided quality defense and good finishing around the rim for Mann's team, 6-foot-10 2025 power forward Trent Steinour of Lake Norman (N.C.) showed potential as a rim-runner and flashes of pop around the rim, while 6-foot-9 2026 center Moustapha Diop of the Walker School (Powder Springs, Ga.) is oozing with potential as a shot blocker and long term impact college player with a bit more seasoning.

"It was a great opportunity to be able to coach these guys that are eventually going to be playing against me in a couple years," said Mann. "It was dope to see the high level of competition, and I was amazed by their skill and intelligence. These kids are special and the game is getting better and better."

The camp had talent at all positions, but was dominated by its interior play, as teams made it a point to get its pivots involved in its offensive sets. There was some terrific individual battles, as 46 campers were listed as being 6-foot-8 and taller. When it was completed, 6-foot-10 2025 Chris Cenac of Newman (New Orleans, La.) was named NBPA Top 100 Camp Most Valuable Player. Cenac's combination of fluidity, versatility, size and length made him stand out from a group of highly-regarded campers.

Cenac led the camp in rebounds (11.4) and finished third in blocks (1.6). All-star selection Meleek Thomas of Lincoln Park (Midland, Pa.), the recent Pangos All-American Camp MOP, was third in scoring (22.6) and first in assists (7.3). After winning two state title in Pennsylvania, Thomas recently accounted he'll be spending his senior campaign with Overtime Elite.

The scoring leaders in front of Thomas were 6-foot-5 wing Tounde Yessoufou of St. Joseph (Santa Maria, Calif.) at 23.1 and 6-foot-4 2025 wing Kiyan Anthony of Long Island Lutheran (Glen Head, N.Y.) at 28.5. Anthony is the son of future NBA Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony.

NBPA Top 100 Camp Top 5 Stock Risers
(selected by editor Ronnie Flores)
Phillip Davis Fogle, AZ Compass Prep (Chandler, Ariz.) 6-8 SF 2025
Acaden Lewis, Sidwell Friends (Washington, D.C.) 6-1 PG 2025
Deron Rippey Jr., Blair Academy (Blairstown, N.J.) 6-1 PG 2026
Zymicah Wilkins, Christ School (Arden, N.C.) 6-8 PF 2025
Mike Williams, Jackson Academy (Jackson, Miss.) 6-1 CG 2025

NBPA Top 100 Top 5 Rising Juniors
(selected by editor Ronnie Flores)
Tajh Ariza, Westchester (Los Angeles, Calif.) 6-8 SF 2026
Aliou Dioum, Accelerated Schools (Denver, Col.) 6-10 C 2026
Caleb Holt, Buckhorn (New Market, Ala.) 6-4 PG 2026
Jordan Smith, Paul VI (Chantilly, Va.) 6-3 SG 2026
Qayden Samuels, Bishop McNamara (Forestville, Md.) 6-6 SF 2026

2024 NBPA Top 100 Camp All-Star Team
(selected by camp selection committee)
MVP: Chris Cenac, Newman (New Orleans, La.) 6-10 PF 2025
Darius Adams, La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.) 6-4 SG 2025
Kiyan Anthony, Long Island Lutheran (Glen Head, N.Y.) 6-4 SG 2025
Brayden Burries, Roosevelt (Eastvale, Calif.) 6-5 PG 2025
Oswin Erhunmwunse, Putnam Science Academy (Putnam, Conn.) 6-10 C 2025
Acaden Lewis, Sidwell Friends (Washington, D.C.) 6-1 PG 2025
Eric Reibe, Bullis School (Washington, D.C.) 7-0 C 2025
Qayden Samuels, Bishop McNamara (Forestville, Md.) 6-6 SF 2026
Meleek Thomas, Lincoln Park (Midland, Pa.) 6-4 SG 2025*
Sebastian Williams-Adams, St. John's (Houston, Texas) 6-9 PF 2025
Tounde Yessoufou, St. Joseph (Santa Maria, Calif.) 6-5 SG 2025

*Meleek Thomas recently announced he will play at Overtime Elite in Atlanta for his senior season.

Editor's Note: Ronnie Flores is a member of the NBPA Top 100 Player Selection Committee.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

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Many times in an individual showcase camp for elite talent, the play can be less than inspiring or sloppier than talent scouts or NBA personnel would hope to see. But the 2024 edition of the Pangos All-American Camp certainly didn't have that problem. The games were well-played, and most importantly, were ultra competitive from the first ones on Sunday through the final top all-star game on Tuesday afternoon.

For the first time in the event's history, there was a team championship game prior to the Cream of the Crop All-Star Games to reward winning basketball. Illinois representing the Big 10 Conference and took on Notre Dame representing the Atlantic Coast Conference both went 3-0 during regular camp games to qualify for the championship. ?The Illini then came up with a 86-73 come-from-behind-victory to finish 4-0.

Leading the way for the camp's best team with his steady play was 6-foot-3 2025 guard Jerry Easter of La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.) with 15 points, five rebounds and five assists. Also netting 15 points for his team was 6-foot-5 2025 Jermaine O'Neal Jr. of Dynamic Prep (Dallas, Texas). Turning heads with his play on the interior was 6-foot-10 2025 Badara Diakite of South Kent Prep (Conn.). He finished with 10 points and six rebounds.

Notre Dame held a 43-41 lead at halftime but couldn't sustain it, as Illinois out-rebounded the Irish (39-37)and were credited with more assists (20-15). Joshua Lewis, a 6-foot-7 2025 forward from Blake (Tampa, Fla.) chosen for the Cream of the Crop Top 60 Game, led Notre Dame with 20 points. It should also be noted that when Brayden Burries, the 6-foot-5 2025 from Roosevelt (Eastvale, Calif.) and Notre Dame's top overall player, was out of the game, his team consistently gave up leads. Burries was the unifying force with his unselfish passing and overpowering finishes and rebounding. Burries' plus/minus likely was off the charts throughout the camp and he showed why he could successfully play on or off the ball at the next level.

Burries was arguably the best all-around player at the camp, with the only difference between he and Easter was the latter's efficiency from the field. Easter was credited as shooting 7-of-8 from the field in the championship game (plus his team got the win), while Burries was 4-of-10. In the Cream of the Crop Top 30 All-Star Game designed for the camp's top performers among 110 participants from 31 different states, Easter was 6-of-7 from the field (good for 15 points), while Burries was 2-of-7 (good for 10 points). Easter was just super efficient all weekend long with his controlled game, change of pace and high percentage shot attempts. He let the game come to him and has that knack for keeping defenders just a bit left or right when he attacks or on his release point. Easter has been a well known commodity on the circuit since middle school, but feels playing in a balanced attack at La Lumiere in the scholastic setting durning his junior season helped him coming into Pangos Camp.

"I came in with the mindset to go out, play and compete," Love said. "It definitely helped me get better to play with guys like Chuck Love and Jalen Haralson and in six months (playing EYBL Scholastic) I got alot better. I just love the game and I just want to have fun and at the same time be a leader."

Love and Burries actually played on the same team in the Cream of the Crop Top 30 game and their Red-clad team came out on top over the Blue jersey-wearing unit, 114-106, in a competitive game. The Blue team actually led by 12 points in the first half and at halftime, 56-50. The game was tied 90-90 with six minutes remaining before the Red team took control behind some nifty passes from Burries, some steady play-making from Easter and a big 3-pointer down the stretch from the team's leading scorer, 6-foot-5 2025 wing Tounde Yessoufou of St. Joseph (Santa Maria, Calif.). Yessoufou was pulling the trigger on his open looks all camp long and finished the final game with 20 points. Yessoufou made 3-of-7 three-pointers and all of his five free throws, including two clutch ones in the game's waning moments.

Seven-foot center Xavion Staton of Sierra Vista (Las Vegas, Nev.) continued his defensive dominance and helped the Red team to victory with five blocked shots. Also playing well was Kayden Edwards, a 6-foot-2 2025 southpaw guard from Duncanville (Texas) who made 4-of-7 three-pointers and had 12 points, and Dylan Mingo, a 6-foot-5 2026 point guard from Long Island Lutheran (Glen Head, N.Y.), who finished with 10 points. Also making positive final impression were O'Neal Jr. and steady Devin Brown, a 6-foot-7 2025 from Milwaukee Academy of Science (Wis.).

The Blue team built its first half lead behind the hot shooting of 6-foot-6 2026 shooting guard Jacob Lanier of Maumelle (Ark.). Lanier played within himself throughout the event and didn't force much, and in the all-star game when he was open on the outside, he let it fly. Lanier made all six of his 3-point attempts and finished with 20 points. He definitely showed why he should be near the top of any credible 2026 national rankings.

Meleek Thomas, a 6-foot-5 2025 guard from Lincoln Park (Midland, Pa.), was the Blue Team's leading scorer with 22 points. After arriving from Western Pennsylvania on Monday, Thomas put his stamp on each game he played and evaluated the level of competition and competitiveness in the camp with his energy and presence. Thomas came into the event with the mindset to dominate, and outside of a few rushed shots, did just that. He was rewarded for his efforts by being named 2024 Pangos Camp Most Outstanding Player.

"I came in wanting to be vocal and be a leader," said Thomas, who has already been an All-American Elite team selection twice in his Lincoln Park career with a season to go. "Coming from a winning high school program plays a part, but it's also about me individually wanting to win at every event I play in and be the best."

The one player we were most vocal about deserving a Top 30 roster spot was 6-foot-7 2025 Chuck Love III, Easter's teammate at La Lumiere. He went out and proved his worth as the top performer in the Top 60 game. Love made a variety of mid-range pull-ups and deep shots to finish with a game-high 25 points in his Blue Team's 103-99 victory

Point guard Jalen Reese, a 6-foot 2025 from Oak Ridge (Orlando, Fla.) also played well for the winning Blue team. Another standout was 6-foot-6 2026 Herly Brutus of Umatilla (Fla.).

For the Red Team, both Kelvin Odih, a 6-foot-5 2025 from South Kent Prep (Conn.), and Amari Allen, a 6-foot-7 2025 from IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.), stood out. Both finished with 12 points.

We always like to point out a few top performers who were not chosen for either all-star game. The best of a deep lot this year were arguably one big and one wing. The big was 6-foot-10 2025 Jayden Everett of Chapin (El Paso, Texas) and the wing was 6-foot-6 2025 Jaden Vance of Bella Vista Prep (Scottsdale, Ariz.).

Pangos Camp All-Time MOPs

2024: Meleek Thomas, Lincoln Park (Midland, Pa.) 6-4 SG
2023: (co): Flory Bidunga, Kokomo (Ind.) 6-9 PF
2023: (co): Cameron Scott, Lexington (S.C.) 6-6 SF
2022: Xavier Booker, Cathedral (Indianapolis, Ind.) 6-11 PF
2021: Jalen Duren, Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.) 6-10 C
2020: Jabari Smith, Sandy Creek (Tyrone, Ga.) 6-10 PF (Festival)
2019 (co): Cade Cunningham, Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.) 6-7 G
2019 (co): Evan Mobley, Rancho Christian (Temecula, Calif.) 7-0 C
2018: Charles Bassey, Aspire Academy (Louisville, Ky.) 6-10 C
2017 (co): Cole Anthony, Archbishop Malloy (Queens, N.Y.) 6-2 PG
2017 (co): Charles Bassey, St. Anthony (San Antonio, Texas) 6-10 C
2016 (co): Trevon Duval, API (Dallas) 6-2 PG
2016 (co): Michael Porter Jr., Father Tolten (Columbia, Mo.) 6-9 SF
2015 (co): Rawle Alkins, Christ the King (Middle Village, N.Y.) 6-5 SG
2015 (co): Mustapha Heron, Sacred Heart (Waterbury, Conn.) 6-5 SG
2014 (tri): Isaiah Briscoe, Roselle Catholic (Roselle, N.J.) 6-3 PG
2014 (tri): Tyler Dorsey, St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif.) 6-5 SG
2014 (tri): Stephen Zimmerman, Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas) 7-0 PF
2013: Stanley Johnson, Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.) 6-7 SF
2012: Cliff Alexander, Currie (Chicago) 6-9 PF
2011: Shabazz Muhammad, Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas) 6-6 WF
2010: Myck Kabongo, Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.) 6-2 PG
2009: Harrison Barnes, Ames (Ames, Iowa) 6-7 WF
2008: John Wall, Word of God Academy (Raleigh, N.C.) 6-3 PG
2007: Brandon Jennings, Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) 6-1 PG
2006: James Harden, Artesia (Lakewood, Calif.) 6-5 SG
2005: Davon Jefferson, Lynwood (Calif.) 6-8 WF
2004: CJ Miles, Skyline (Dallas) 6-6 WF
2003: Robert Swift, Bakersfield (Calif.) 7-0 C

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

The post Competitive Pangos Camp Ends With Bang! appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.

With the grassroots event calendar getting tighter each summer because of the voluminous number of event across the country and abroad, it would be easy to focus on the elite national level talent who were unable to participate at the 2024 Pangos All-American Camp do to event conflicts or other issues, but what that accomplished from the "half full" perspective was create opportunities for other hungry college-bound players.

The Pangos All-American Camp is designed for national Top 150 prospects, but with the way college recruiting is set up nowadays with the robust NCAA transfer portal, colleges are not focused on high school players outside the Top 50 in credible national rankings, give or take 25 players. Not many of the rising seniors (2025) have committed to college yet where in year's past a handful would already by the time the event that traditionally tips-off summer commences.

Camp Director Dinos Trigonis invited some without the national fanfare but with the talent to take a legitimate shot at being considered a national Top 150 recruit.?

Incredibly, two players, one guard and one big man, came into the camp with zero offers but will leave with plenty of national buzz. And expect the offers to come, too. The guard was 6-foot-2 Darrell Brown Jr., a 2025 prospect out of West Nottingham Academy (Colora, Md.). In the first camp game, Brown's athleticism and explosive drives to the basket turned heads. However, as the game went, it wasn't hard to evaluate that his other skills were up to par too, as Brown is a deft ball-handler and can knock down the perimeter shot enough to keep defenses honest against playing him for the drive. He plays in the mold of former USC and NBA guard Robert Pack?by packing alot of punch around the rim in a small guard's body.

National scouts were a bit shocked to see Brown didn't have an official offer on the table. Which may be a first for a standout Pangos Camp player.

The post player who fell into the same offer category as Darrell Brown was 7-foot rising senior (2025) Tammar Brown of Rocktop Acadey (King of Prussia, Pa.). Now, there can be a variety of reasons why a player doesn't have an offer, especially with big men who develop in the later stages of their high school career. For the soft-spoken Brown, however, it isn't difficult to see he'll be a much improved player two years from now and has a chance to develop into a legit NBA prospect.

Tammar Brown's skill level is quickly catching up to his confidence and in the camp games he showed he can effectively compete with a deep group of camp bigs. He hit some nice turnaround shots and even a fall-away jumper with touch. Tammar Brown also does a good job of asking for the ball in prime post position, runs well and has good length and a frame that gets NBA scouts to take notice.

Expect the offers for both Browns to roll in sooner rather than later.

There were other standouts who did come into the camp with some offers, but should see there list grow. That would include, first and foremost, 6-foot-10 Cody Peck, a rising junior (2026) out of Carmel Christian (Matthews, N.C.). Peck has tremendous versatility in his offensive game, from 3-point shot making capabilities to a nifty package of finger rolls and layups. Peck is light on his feet and is one of the best upside prospects in attendance at a camp with plenty of them.

Some of the other top upside prospects among big men who should see their recruiting grow include 6-foot-10 2025 Jayden Leverett of Chapin (El Paso, Texas), 6-foot-10 Collins Onyejiaka of Newman School (Boston, Mass.) and 7-foot 2026 Keiner Asprilla of Don Bosco Prep (Ramsey, N.J.).

The wings and guards who fall into this category, among others, include 6-foot 2025 Miles Sadler of Canyon International Academy (Phoenix, Ariz.), 6-foot-5 2026 Dylan Mingo of Long Island Lutheran (Glen Head, N.Y.), 6-foot-5 2026 Elias Obenyah of Salesian (Richmond, Calif.), 6-foot-7 2025 Robert Moore of AZ Compass Prep (Chandler, Ariz.), 6-foot-6 2025 Jayden Vance of Bella Vista Prep (Scottsdale, Ariz.) and 6-foot-8 2026 Christian Collins of Westchester (Los Angeles, Calif.).

Trigonis focused on size to fill out the depth of his camp in order to give the 26 NBA teams who had their scouts in attendance something to log in their memory bank down the line. Many of them were no doubt impressed by the activity level and upside of 6-foot-9 2025 Oswin Erhunmwunse of Putnam Science Academy (Conn.) and 7-foot-1 2025 Xavion Staton of Sierra Vista (Las Vegas, Nev.). Erhunmwunse motor is non-stop and he has the most explosive vertical pop of any big man in attendance. Staton is a relentless shot blocker who isn't afraid to challenge shots outside his area and has a bit of a nasty streak to him, to go along with being a valedictorian level student. Staton was getting challenged plenty at the rim and won a majority of the battles.

There is already some anticipation for Erhunmwunse and Staton to square off in Tuesday's Cream of the Crop Top 30 All-Star Game reserved for the camp's top performers.

That game should also include a matchup of arguably the camp's top guards: 2024 All-American Elite Team member Maleek Thomas, a 6-foot-4 dynamo out of Lincoln Park (Midland, Pa.), and 6-foot-5 2025 Brayden Burries of Roosevelt (Eastvale, Calif.). All of the desired matchups for the top all-star game have yet to be determined after two days of camp games, but it's a safe bet those two will be squaring up at some point on the camp's third and final day.

Some of the other "locks" include 6-foot-3 2025 Jerry Easter of La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.), 6-foot-3 2026 Ikenna Alozie of Dream City Christian (Glendale, Ariz.), 6-foot-6 2025 Tounde Yessoufou of St. Joseph (Santa Maria, Calif.) 6-foot-10 post-graduate Matt Gilhool of Penn Charter (Philadelphia, Pa.) and his high school teammate, 6-foot-1 2025 Jake West.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

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The WNBA officially announced its expansion to Canada on Thursday morning. Toronto, selected as the league's 14th team, will begin play in 2026.

It's official. After months of speculation, Canada is officially the home of the latest WNBA expansion team. Although Toronto was chosen as the next WNBA city, team president Teresa Resch made a very clear statement.

"This isn't just Toronto's team. This is Canada's team."

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert announced Thursday morning Toronto has been selected as the 14th team. The league's first international team, Toronto, is slated to begin its augural season in 2026. First reported by CBCSports Shireen Ahmed, the WNBA officially confirmed the news today.

“Bringing a WNBA team to Toronto represents an important milestone for our league as we continue to expand both domestically and outside the United States,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert in an official press release.

The news doesn't come as a surprise. Along with the growth of women's basketball have come increased opportunities. In addition to charter flights, the league is continuing to broaden. While the 2024 rookie draft class is special, the rise of the WNBA has been well-documented for some time. The latest team arrives on the heels of the successful 2023 season. With the exceptional talent continuing to pour in, the WNBA needs more roster spots. The addition of expansion teams will only resolve that issue. One of the most competitive leagues in sports, the league only has 144 spots, which makes it difficult to accommodate all of the talent. It essentially boils down to supply and demand.

We’re excited about the growth of the league. The WNBA’s 14th team has been granted to the city of Toronto!

: @WNBA pic.twitter.com/xN15fao5XM

— Ballislife Womens Basketball (@ballislifewbb_) May 23, 2024

In a league-wide presser, Engelbert addressed the roster spot issues. Often referring to her economic model, the Commissioner has strong plans to build beyond Toronto and Golden State. In fact, she's set a goal to create nearly 48 roster spots and four additional teams by 2028.

Entering a new era, the WNBA saw record-breaking viewership and attendance. With viewers up 21 percent from the 2022 season, the league saw attendance increase by nearly 16 percent. Now in its 27th season, the league is soaring.

Poised for takeoff, the WNBA has been steadily growing over time. With the 2024 season just underway, the New York Liberty and Indiana Fever's matchup drew 1.71 million viewers, making it the most-watched WNBA game ever broadcast on ABC.

Although the team does not have a name, according to Raptors sideline report Savanna Hamilton, WNBA team president Teresa Ranch is opening to suggestions. In fact, she hopes the logo can "represent everyone and women strongly."

You heard it here first

Commissioner Engelbert has officially announced our exciting expansion to the 6ix

Welcome to the W, @WNBA_Toronto pic.twitter.com/NC5wJopwAF

— WNBA (@WNBA) May 23, 2024

“With Larry Tanenbaum’s distinguished record of leading successful sports franchises and Toronto’s appeal as a dynamic, diverse city that cares deeply about the game of basketball, we are confident that this new team will thrive as a first-class WNBA organization and become a great source of inspiration and support for the Toronto-area community and across Canada," said Engelbert.

With the historic news, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was present, along with Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, and Ontario Premier, Doug Ford.

Committed to growing the women's game, the team announced a new state-of-the-art training practice facility will be built. An issue in years past was that many players didn't even have names on their lockers. In addition to Toronto, Seattle and Las Vegas have invested heavily in their players with state of the art practice facilities. It's only a matter of time where every athlete get's the proper training and recovery centers in the league.

Women's sports is here, and it's only expected to rise. In fact, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow has officially declared May 23 as WNBA Day in Toronto. After the arrival of Engelbert, the league has only been on the rise. Negotiating the CBA, adding charter flights, and expanding the league to two new cities- the future is bright for the WNBA. It may not be perfect, but changes are happening.

Fans who wish to buy season-tickets can do so by placing a deposit at WNBA.com/Toronto.  

Stay tuned for more related articles. Click here

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.

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In Atlanta for session II, we focused much of our time on the younger age groups (16U and 15U), but since the younger groups were playing at a different location in Indy, we focused on the 17U division. We take a look at 10 players (primarily 17U) who are making strides on the court, which should pay off on the recruiting front in the weeks and months to come.

Heading into session IV next weekend (May 24-27) in Kansas City, Florida-based Nightrydas Elite is first place in the Merritt Conference while DMV-based Team Takeover and NorCal-based Oakland Soldiers are tied for first place in the Raveling Conference. All three teams sport 9-1 records.

Let's take a look at 10 players making strides in their game and helping their recruitment based on their play at Nike EYBL Session III in?Indianapolis:

2025

Silas Barksdale, Boo Williams 17U/Woodside (Newport News, Va.) 6-9 PF
This no non-sense performer does his job and doesn't worry a lot about the fanfare of the cameras and it's paying great dividends. Barksdale moves well without the ball in pick and roll situations and has a solid face up game.

C.J. Ingram II, Florida Rebels 17U/Hawthorne (Fla.) 6-5 SF
Grid-Hoop stud was his usual active self and played with an extra pop for the Steve Reece-coached team that is currently tied for second place behind the Nightrydas in the Merritt Division. Ingram attacks the rim with a vengeance and his skill is underrated considering the fact he quarterbacks Hawthorne's football team and spends time away from the game. He led both programs to FHSAA Class 1A state titles and is a key cog for a top-flight travel club program.

Jasper Johnson, Team Thad 17U/Link Academy (Branson, Mo.) 6-4 SG
He's a top 10 national recruit, but Johnson just adds something to his game each time we evaluate him. The smooth lefty was attacking the paint and finishing with soft touch around the basket. There is just plenty to like about his overall ability.?

Brandon Lee, NY Rens 17U/The Patrick School (Elizabeth, N.J.) 6-5 SG
He was terrific in Indianapolis and draws high praise from his travel ball coaches for his character and approach to the game. Lee has a nice pull up mid-range shot, drives hard to the rack and makes energy plays that helps his team win, as well. Lee is also a quality free throw shooter and defender. His offer count will go way up as the EYBL rolls along.?

Nyk Lewis, Team Takeover 17U/Gonzaga (Washington, D.C.) 6-1 PG
He was recently named an Underclass All-American, so it's not like Lewis isn't productive. He's physically prepared for the rigors of high level ball, steady and unflappable and one of the main reasons why Team Takeover is in position to challenge for its fourth Peach Jam title since the EYBL was formed in 2010. Lewis gets into the lane and makes the correct reads and is the type of guard colleges utilizes to make a deep NCAA Tourney run.

Ahziel "JoJo" McIver, Drive Nation 17U/Ellison (Killeen, Texas) 6-2 PG
Terrific mid-major prospect who could push to the next level if he keeps showing like he did in Indy. McIver has a nice perimeter game and does well beating defenders to the inside from either wing. McIver also has quick hands on defense and gets out in front of plays. Simply put, he's a winner.

Antonio Munoz, Meanstreets 17U/Whitney Young (Chicago) 6-6 SF
This athletic small forward can change the dynamics of a game with a spectacular finish around the rim. He cuts well and is a line-drive attacker who is a load to stop once he gets downhill. Munoz plays hard on both ends and is tracking to improve the level of his scholarship offers based on what we saw in Indianapolis.?

Tae Simmons, Why Not 17U/Heritage Christian (Northridge, Calif.) 6-6 PF
This rugged forward may be a bit undersized for the high major level, but boy does he do things that help college coaches win and keep their job. He's relentless attacking the glass or going after an offensive rebound put back and doesn't need the ball of offense to make an impact. Many D1 colleges in Simmons' SoCal backyard should be all over him with an offer. ?

Dallas Washington, AZ Unity 17U/Santa Margarita (Calif.) 6-9 PF
He's found a nice niche on a team loaded with individual talent and is tracking upward. Washington also played on a talented high school team that was up and down in 2023-24, and his level of consistency wasn't where it needed to be. This spring, however, he's starting to put together a string of performances that have turned the heads of colleges coaches at the mid-major and high-major level. Washington is rebounding hard and finding his comfort zone on offense. ? ?

2026

Imahri Wooten, City Rocks NY 17U/Putnam Science Academy (Putnam, Ct.) 6-5 SG
His explosiveness jumps out right away and Wooten has a versatile offensive package. Wooten's game is maturing and he can keep defenders honest with his outside shooting. In fact, he reportedly went 6-of-7 from 3-point range in one contest and in another game we evaluated, he dominated with an array of offensive moves. The way he's tracking, Wooten should be a serious McDonald's All-American candidate in 18 months.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

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As far as the travel ball clubs on the 17U circuit go, there is only one 6-0 team in the Merritt Division and that's California-based Why Not 17U. Coached by Reggie Morris Jr., Why Not upped its record heading into the EYBL's Live Period Session III in Indianapolis (May 17-19) with a 71-66 comeback victory over Strive For Greatness 17U in an all-California Sunday showdown. The star of the game was 6-foot-5 2025 wing Tounde Yessoufou, who had the most energy of all 10 players on both ends of the floor, hit a variety of shots and made some big defensive plays en route to a 26-point performance. He made 9-of-10 field goals and 7-of-8 free throws vs. Strive and is unofficially tied for first in 17U scoring with 6-foot-6 2025 wing Xzavion Mitchell of Wisconsin-based Team Herro at 25.5 ppg.

Team Herro is one of three 6-0 teams in the Raveling Division, along with New England-based Expressions Elite and DMV-based Team Takeover.

For now, let's take a look at the top underclass performers and eye-catchers at Nike EYBL Session II:

2026

Austin Brown, JL3 Elite/Lufkin (Texas) 6-8 SF
This hard-nosed forward moves well without the ball and excels even though sometimes JL3 plays at a fast-pacedthat doesn't always suit Brown's best attributes. In the half court game, or a tight spot, this team knows who to get the ball to because Brown knows how to move without the ball and is such a terrific shooter. Brown was knocking down the 3-ball with regularity and is especially excellent off the catch.

Josiah Cannady, Team Durant 16U/St. Francis Academy (Baltimore, Md.) 6-3 PG
We loved his speed with the basketball and play-making ability.

Christian Collins, Why Not 16U/Westchester (Los Angeles) 6-8 SF
This wiry athlete played second fiddle on his previous high school team at St. Bernard (Playa Del Rey, Calif.) to a talented graduating senior and Why Not 17s friend Tajh Ariza, who will join him at Westchester. From a national perspective, however, was his breakout event. We've known he was a high-major prospect for over a year and a half now, but he's added more coordination and maturity to his game, and is now hitting deep perimeter shots with ease. The son of 2002 McDonald's All-American DeAngelo Collins, Christian one game where he canned three consecutive 3-pointers and caught the attention of national scouts and even a few NBA brass.

Kendre Harrison, Team CP3 16U/Reidsville (N.C.) 6-7 PF
Former NBA player Austin Rivers made headlines earlier this week when he talked about NBA players' abilities to play in the NFL. We've been closely following the nation's top Grid-Hoopers for close to 40 years and even though his assessment was a bit off, there are still plenty of two-sport athletes that play high level basketball that could make a NFL roster. Harrison helped Reidsville to a 29-0 record and North Carolina Class 2A state crown and No. 39 Final FAB 50 ranking a few months after leading the football team to a state title in the same division. Harrison is the nation's top tight end prospect in his class, but boy, he's awfully fun to watch on the hardwood. Not only does he tear down the rim, he does everything with good timing and has great hands as one could imagine.

Andrew Hilman, Oakland Soldiers 16U/Riordan (San Francisco, Calif.) 6-4 SG
The game is starting to slow down for this slashing wing player who was often the best player on a talent-laden Riordan team where multiple bench players have legit D1 offers. Hilman is a strider who can get in the lane with ease and loves to spin off defenders. He has good instincts and loves to jump lanes for easy run-out buckets. There may be some more naturally talented, but few played every possession as hard as this humble kid.

Jordan Hunter, Team Takeover 16U/Paul VI (Chantilly, Va.) 6-3 SG
An under control shooter with range and discipline. Hunter knows what a good shot is and where he wants to get in the half court setting.

Dylan Mingo, PSA Cardinals 16U/Long Island Lutheran (Glen Head, N.Y.) 6-4 PG
Repeatedly came up with strong drives to the basket and his talent level stands out. A well known player who is in store for a big summer.

Jordan Smith, Team Takeover 17U/Paul VI (Chantilly, Va.) 6-4 SG
Playing up, Smith was one of the standouts of the weekend, as Team Takeover remains unbeaten in EYBL play. He is the team's catalyst with his motor, physicality and skill. In fact, his combination of those three attributes might have been the best we saw in Atlanta. Smith is a ferocious on-ball defender and did a terrific job on The Family's Darius Acuff Jr. in a key win. Smith also has solid play-making skills to create and loves to take it down the middle for strong finishes or a monster flush.

Jahda Swann, New Heights Lightning 16U/Jefferson (Brooklyn, N.Y.) 6-4
A sleeper who has plenty of long-term potential. Swann is just coming into his own and we liked what we saw with his outside shooting and sleek frame. Swann can knock down the corner shot, moves his feet well on defense, and is creative off the dribble. He's under the radar, but his teammate Oesoemana Sacko (6-8, 2026) might be the best 2026 prospect in NYC at St. Francis Prep (Queens, N.Y.).

Cameron Williams, Vegas Elite 16U/St. Mary's (Phoenix, Ariz.) 6-10 PF
He may not dominate today, but boy, the potential is off the charts. Williams can face up and score and when the skill level and strength meet on the frame he possesses, he's going to be a legit NBA prospect. After last weekend, keen NBA scouts know who Williams is.

Clyde Walters, Nightrydas Elite 16U/Pinson Valley (Ala.) 6-7 SF
His team had an abundance of talent, but we wanted to point out his good feel on the basketball court. Walters has alot in his offensive bag with the ball.

2027

Brock Bass-Browner, Georgia Stars 15U/North Cobb Christian (Kennesaw, Ga.) 6-7 PF
Athletic forward who knows what he is. Excels at finishing off off pick and rolls and has solid touch as a lefty big.

Anderson Diaz, NY Rens 15U/St. Raymond (Bronx, N.Y.) 6-1 PG
Of all the 15U games we evaluated, Diaz might have had the best burst with the ball from a stop-start position. His first step is great, but Diaz also seemed under control when we watched. Likes to get in the key with the ability to do it, then make a quick dish to either side for a quality shot.

Amir Dockery, New Heights Lightning 15U/Eagle Academy (Brooklyn, N.Y.) 6-0 PG
A throwback NYC point guard with all the trimmings and fixings on his plate: keeps the dribble alive with a crafty handle, gets through tight spaces, can split double teams and fishing with a strong lay-up package. Freshman starter for his high school team that captured the PSAL, title while he was named the Public League's freshman of the year.

Cole Holden, Why Not 15U/Harvard-Westlake (North Hollywood, Calif.) 6-2 CG
This club was unbeaten until its last game on Sunday and it's easy to see why when you look of the makeup of the roster. The team uses teamwork and good ball-movement to punish foes and Holden is one of the ring-leaders. He and Why Not teammate Pierce Thompson (6-2, 2027) played JayVee for the CIF Open Division champions and it's easy to see how practicing against those experienced players is helping him on the 15U level. Holden is a confident ball-handler and once the game slows down for him, he's going to be a terrific contributor for one of the best high school programs on the West Coast. On this team, he has plenty of weapons around him and is learning when to attack and when to get them involved.

Jeremy Jenkins, FL Rebels 15U/Riviera Prep (Miami, Fla.) 6-7 PF
His strength and skill at his age (turned 15 last month) stand out right away. He's physical and can handle the rigors of big-time ball. Already considered one of the nation's best prospects in the 2027 class. Jenkins' front court mate Jonathan Watts (6-8, 2027) also moves well and challenges shots at the rim.

Dooney Johnson, Team Herro 15U/Juneau (Milwaukee, Wis.) 6-4 PG
We love the name and the game even more, as Johnson is one of the best 2027 prospects in the Midwest Region. He gets downhill in a hurry and can change direction well with the handle.

Gabriel Nesmith, Nightrydas Elite 15U/Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.) 6-6 SG
You will be hard-pressed to find a better performance by a 15U player than the one we saw from Nesmith on Saturday afternoon. It was only one game and we can't wait to evaluate Nesmith more, but within the first 10 seconds of watching him we knew what kind of talent he was and what level he'll eventually be recruited it. He hit a mid-court crossover and covered tons of ground to get in attack position in that time frame and his fluid body movements, approach and confidence stood out right away. Nesmith has the length you look for in a high-major wing and can shoot the deep ball out to 25 feet with ease. The mechanics and rhythm look great, too. Don't be surprised if he challenges for a top 3 spot in the 2027 class in the final rankings that matter at the end four years from now.

Marquis Newson, Team Final 15U/Sanford School (Hockessin, Del.) 6-3 SG
A team with an ubundance of individual talent that we liked, Newson is a high-level athlete who can get downhill with plenty of horizontal pop. He's a prototypical wing prospect with a high skill level that high majors will track down the line.

Babatunde Oladotun, Team Durant 15U/ Blake (Silver Spring, Md.) 6-8 SF
Oozing with potential and talent, some well-known evaluators peg this lanky wing as the top prospect in the 2027 class. He wasn't our production-based National Freshman of the Year, but we understand the sentiments of placing him at the top. There is still a long ways to go, but Oladotun obviously has the size and measurables to be a terrific and dominant high school player. At this level, he can dominate with array of shot-making skills, step backs and length. He needs to work on getting in a stance and taking the positive space in front of him, instead of relying on the negative space that he can have at any time against lesser talents.

Zaiyir Phillips, Team United 15U/Hunter Huss (Gastonia, N.C.) 5-10 PG
This lefty just keeps attacking until he gets to his spot on the floor. It's refreshing to see his skill level combined with his desire to make winning plays. Phillips is deft at the straight away jumper and shoots a high percentage off the catch. Phillips has the qualities coaches love in their young guards.

Delton Prescott, AZ Unity 15U/Sunnyslope (Phoenix, Ariz.) 6-0 PG
This quarterback helped a terrific high school team in the winter as a ninth-grader and is a leader on one of the best 15U teams in the country. Prescott is beyond his years when it comes to understanding and seeing a play ahead. He's also a terrific passer in various situations.

Clarence Rosser Jr., Team United 15U/Northern Nash (Rocky Mount, N.C.) 6-9 PF
He is the type of player that stands out right away with his length and size, but Rosser has already developed a nice array of skill. Rosser makes nice high post passes and has some patience in his attack. He can shoot the deep ball with confidence and his potential is off the charts. Once he learns how to take space and cover ground with the dribble, watch out as he'll be a Top 20 type prospect when it's all said and done. His front court teammate Charles Pur (6-9, 2027) is one to watch as well.

Jymin Veney, Tea Melo 15U/Gonzaga (Washington, D.C.) 6-3 SG
We love it when young players can get their feet under them on offense and stay in control off the dribble and Veney can do just that. He can play the lead or off the ball and is a terrific shooter, with a nice array of pull-ups. Keep an eye on him down the line.

2028

Adan Diggs, AZ Unity 15U/Arizona 6-4 SG
The state of Arizona is has an abundance of quality young players and Diggs is right up there as the best of the lot. He has terrific size and frame for his position, and moves well with our without the basketball. Diggs' athleticism is also high-major and he's a shot-maker with plenty of confidence. With natural progression, he'll be on the recruiting list of Blue Bloods in the future.

Jakyi Miles, Oakland Soldiers 15U/Arizona 6-3 CG
When one talks about scoring, some just had that innate feel and instinct for it and “KyiKyi” is one of the best. In fact, as a rising ninth-grader he's one of the best we've seen come down the pike in a long time. Last season he played on AZ Compass Prep's high school team and was probably good enough to play on the EYBL Scholastic team. He dropped 35 points in a game vs. Babatunde Oladotun and Team Durant and was terrific in the game prior that we also had a chance to evaluate. Miles had great ability to get by defenders while covering ground, can shake them with meaningful dribbles and already possesses a smooth pull-up game from mid-range that most elite high school players would kill to have in their arsenal. Sprinting into a pull-up is not easy and Miles already has that in his tool box. Watch out for Miles on the elite high school level.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

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Southern Assault

The 17U didn’t have an ideal showing, going 1-3 last weekend but the silver lining was the play from 2025 D.J. Hall. A player that I have received numerous calls from, from various collegiate levels. Hall averaged 14.7 ppg and 7.2 rpg a game and Hall just showed his versatility offensively. A burly built forward standing at about 6'6-6'7, Hall is a skilled 4-man that can dribble, pass and shoot. Most of his damage is in the post, using advanced footwork, a large frame and plus length to generate space to score. An adequate mid-range shooter, high level passer from 15 feet in and as the games went on, he rebounded and started igniting breaks.

Players like him can be a challenge to evaluate. What is the right level for Hall? He doesn’t play above the rim and I do wish he was a little bit taller, but his feel and skill allows him to be very productive and players like him have been successful at the D1 level. I’ve said it in the past about other guys and I’ll say it again...He’s someone that, regardless if it's low, mid or high major D1, the program that values what he is and utilizes him right will get a stud.

16U

The 2026 group went 2-2 and two players stood out to me. Big man Davion Adkins and guard/wing Alex Barther. Adkins has freakish athleticism. Skies for blocks and dunks and one play, he snatched a shot with two hands and hit his head on the backboard. His effort, athleticism and touch with his hook shots, Adkins has emerged as a top 30-40 player in the country and can jump to 5-Star status at some point in his high school career. I think there’s a lot more to unlock from a face-up and overall skill facet as well.

Barther led the team in scoring as he shot it well in spot-ups from three, rebounded well due to 95 percent of his basketball career, he's played the post. Also liked when games got tight, he posted up smaller defenders and used height advantage. Another player that’s on the national scenes in the 2026 class.

Team Trae Young

The 17U group probably want to forget Omaha, but most importantly learn from what didn’t work. They went 0-4. I did think Jaylen Lawal showed he’s a no brainer D1 player and will garner a couple offers throughout the spring/summer. Four-star guard Carlsheon Young can score it in bunches. A very talented player that just didn’t get in a rhythm offensively that I'm accustomed to him being in. Damario Adams is a 6’7 wing-forward that holds an assortment of skills. An intriguing prospect that during the live periods, if Adams can string together a couple high level games, can see his stock skyrocket. Tough weekend for them but they’ll clean up the main areas of concern especially with lack of ball movement and questionable shot selection and I expect them to be better going forward.

16U

The 2026 squad ended with an even record of 2-2. Bryce Dixon is a wing prospect that exudes toughness. Gets to the rim on drives, rebounds in traffic, fights for the loose ball and improving his perimeter game. Defensively, Dixon takes charges, does a good job keeping the ball-handler in front and uses strength to push out taller guys that try to post him up. I think he has a good IQ for the game, and once his skill matches that and the motor, he’ll see himself in a different tier than he’s at currently.

The other prospect that stood out to me was Brandon Malone. A 6’6-6’7 forward that ran the floor hard, made trail threes and finished at the rim. His ability to stretch the floor allows him to mix it up and attack the rim from the top of the key because the defender is closing out harder on him. One to keep tabs of.

ASAK Elite

The 2025 group went 2-2 on the weekend. 2026 Bo Ogden played up and was very good. Shot it well from deep and I like that he can get his feet set quickly on the move and launch. His motor and effort to secure offensive rebounds or just keep the play alive stood out to me. A no-brainer top 75 level prospect nationally in my opinion and you can argue higher. 2025 Aiden Disu has a lot of potential. The first game in ASAK’s win vs MASS Rivals, he collected 16 points and 11 rebounds. A sturdy built wing that can score inside and out and guard multiple positions when locked in on that end. Rising senior Uzziyah Bunton was very solid as well. Managed the games well and scored when the opportunities were present. Sometimes his production goes beyond what the box-score stats say.

16U

This team also probably wants to forget Omaha as well. They were winless in the first session. Second half scoring droughts hurt them in close battles.

2026 Billy White is about 6’7 and shoots the cover off the ball. His size and confidence as a shooter allows him to make tough shots. A very dependable perimeter threat that doesn’t need much time to get his shot off. Will rise in the national top 150 before his high school career is over.

Silas Rodriguez was productive. Shot it well from three, can make shots off the dribble and uses angles very well when finishing vs traffic. Silas' feel for the game is a plus and as an off ball mover, he puts himself in advantageous opportunities to score the ball. One trait I do think about Silas that can go unnoticed is he has an edge about him that allows him to make his presence known in games.

One Time Legends

I didn’t get to evaluate their 16U club but I will at the next stop I’m at. The 2025 group went 2-2 and I liked how the team played together. Unsigned senior Jakeel Registe was good. Averaged 16 ppg and his blend of athleticism and shot creation stood out. He utilized jab steps to keep defenders honest before he launched and when he was near the rim, Registe finished with dunks but also showed off his hang-time and finished well around translatable length and size. The talent is there, he’s a D1 level prospect and the next 30-35 days will be big for him.

2025 Dasean Brodie has always intrigued me. A lefty with a good basketball frame, makes shots from deep and has a solid feel for rebounding the basketball. One to keep tabs throughout the summer and see where his recruitment goes.

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With teams ranging from 15U through 17U, there were standouts at every division, but here are six players who caught our eye as top performers at the event:

Meleek Thomas, 6’5, SG, New Heights Lightning 17U, 2025
As far as the top player in The Fantastic 40 was concerned, the conversation starts and ends with Meleek Thomas. The Pittsburgh product was absolutely electric, scoring the rock without forcing the issue, showing what he could do with limited bounces en route to an undefeated weekend for the EYBL program. Meleek was an absurd shot creator off of a live dribble, was creative finishing at the rack, and did his best KD/Dirk impression with countless one legged fadeaway jumpers. Already signed to an NIL deal with Roc Nation, Thomas left no doubt in anyone’s mind that he’s a top five player in the class of 2025 nationally.

Cayden Daughtry, 6’0, PG, Florida Rebels 15U, 2027
In the 2027 class, there wasn’t a player at the Pangos Fantastic 40 who was a more confident scorer than Cayden Daughtry. Having put up monstrous stats on the varsity level dating back to his middle school years, Daughtry exudes supreme scoring ability when playing his age group against his peers. He is an electric 3-point shooter, is patient weaving in and out of the lane, and isn’t afraid of contact despite his slender frame. Daughtry holds a number of D1 offers and brings that killer mentality every time he steps on the hardwood.

Jaion Pitt, 6’8, PF, Arizona Unity 17U, 2025
Blending potential with a massive amount of production, Jaion Pitt was the most productive front court player in the 17U division of the Fantastic 40. The Canadian is a beast rebounding on both ends, is an outstanding cutter, and showed surprising vision passing out of double teams or finding teammates in the dunker. Pitt is extending his range beyond the 3-point line and as he continues to gain consistency stretching the defense, his ranking should trend upwards.

Felipe Quinones, 6’5, SG, Jet Academy 16U, 2026
Next in line out of Puerto Rico, Felipe Quinones lived up to his billing at The Fantastic 40. Owning a prototypical build for a two guard, the sophomore showed off a reliable 3-point shot, impacted the game defensively with his length, and has a massive amount of confidence when he has the ball in his hands. Felipe showed everyone in attendance at Gibson Park that he has the makings of a high major guard and will be learning from a good one in Kenny Smith at Jet Academy.

Gustavo Guimaraes, 6’11, C, All Ball 17U, 2025
One of the bigger surprises of the event, both literally and figuratively, was near 7-footer Gustavo Guimaraes of All Ball. The Riviera Prep (FL) big is fresh off a state title, is quite agile running the floor, and looks to finish above the rim at every available opportunity. There is still plenty of room for growth for Gustavo, but between his play with All Ball and with the Brazil 17U team, expect to hear plenty more from him sooner rather than later.

Darius Wabbington, 6’10, C, Arizona Unity 15U, 2027
There wasn’t a single big in the 15U bracket who could come close to stopping Sunnyslope (AZ) product Darrius Wabbington on the block throughout the Fantastic 40. The Arizona big looks for contact, showed off intriguing footwork on the block, and was incredibly confident scoring the ball. Patterning his game after Nikola Jokic, Darius also stepped out to hit a few threes on the weekend, leaving no doubt in anyone’s mind why he’s right there at the top of a very special Arizona 2027 class.

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RELATED: Staton An Eye-Catcher At USA Basketball

At the recent USA Basketball Junior National Team Mini-Camp in Arizona, we had a chance to interview Koa Peat of FAB 50 No. 22 Perry (Gilbert, Ariz.). The 6-foot-8 rising senior (2025) is one of the well-established players in the nation. He's also a Team USA veteran who should be one of the leading players on this summer's team at the FIBA 17U World Cup, June 29-July 7 in Istanbul, Turkey.

If Team USA captures the Gold Medal in Turkey, it was be a third gold medal for the 17-year old who could go down as the most accomplished Arizona high school basketball player, ever. Peat, already a two-time Gatorade State Player of the Year, averaged a team-high 17.2 ppg during the 2023 FIBA 16U Americas Championship in Merida, Mexico and also contributed 8.3 rpg, 3.2 apg and 1.5 spg in six contests. He was also part of the gold-medal winning team at the 2022 FIBA 17U World Cup in Malaga, Spain and for his accomplishments was named 2023 USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year.

We talk with Peat about his camp experience, his vast experience with USA Basketball and what he hopes to accomplish this summer, and to give us some insight about not losing a high school playoff game yet with his senior season to come.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

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Sara Jane Gamelli

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Stanford's beloved head coach Tara VanDerveer announced her retirement after 38 seasons. Stanford announced their long-time women's basketball coach will work with Stanford's Athletics department in an "advisory capacity."

The Women's basketball world said goodbye to the best to ever coach the game. Late Tuesday evening, Stanford announced their longtime coach will be hanging up her playbook. Tara VanDerveer, 70, became the NCAA's all-time winningest coach earlier this year. With 1,216 wins, she will step back from the game she coached for over four decades.

Related Article: Tara VanDerveer is now the winningest coach in NCAA history

A Massachusetts native, VanDerveer turned to coaching after playing basketball for the University of Albany and Indiana. Less than five years after her collegiate career, Tara VanDerveer was named head coach of Idaho University for two seasons. After becoming the head coach of Ohio State University for five seasons, California called her home. In 1985 she was named head coach of Stanford University, where she was the women's basketball head coach for the next 38 seasons.

And 38 years later, VanDerveer is largely considered one of the pioneers who helped shape and pave the way in women's basketball. With dreams of playing basketball as a child, she became more than just a player. A legend in the basketball world, she leaves behind a legacy that is inspiring, and deeply impactful.

As for VanDerveer, she feels she "is leaving" the game in a great place, especially since women's basketball is in the greatest place it's ever been. Passing on the baton, VanDerveer said it's "exciting" to see where women's basketball is. Even as a young woman, she always saw the vision of women's basketball to where it is now.

Throughout her illustrious career, VanDerveer is a three-time NCAA Champion, with 14 Final Four appearances. Inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011, the Massachusetts native is a 15-time Pac-12 Champion, and five-time National Coach of the Year, who's coached several high-profile athletes. She coached several legendary stars, including Cameron Brink, Nneka Ogwumike, Chiney Ogwumike, Jennifer Azzi, Nicole Powell, and numerous others.

An NCAA Champion in 1990, 1992, and 2021, VanDerveer has a 1158-242 coaching record. In 38 seasons with the Cardinal, the long-time coach compiled a 1065-220 win/loss record.

Coach VanDerveer and the Cardinal fell short in this year's NCAA Tournament after they were bounced by NC State in the Sweet 16. VanDerveer retired just days after the tournament concluded, marking the end of an era for the Pac-12. While one of the most competitive conferences is dissolving after this season, Stanford will join the ACC next season.

Speaking of the ACC, VanDerveer firmly stated the conference change did not affect her retirement decision. If anything she felt it was a "motivator to stay," and anticipates the ACC will be a "great, great, league."

Wednesday afternoon, VanDerveer hinted at reasons why she decided to call it a career during a livestream:

"I felt it was time, VanDerveer told the media during the livestream. Although she is stepping down from coaching, she hopes to remain involved as an "ambassador" or "advisor" with the Stanford Athletics Department. Admitting she "retired 20 times" in her mind, VanDerveer stated her mom is 97 years old, and the game has "changed a lot over the last four years."

Coaching Women's basketball is a 24/7 job, between recruiting, meetings, and coaching. Even on vacation, VanDerveer dedicated every moment she had to coach.

As for her successor, former Stanford and WNBA player Kate Paye is likely to her place. Having spent the last 17 years as an assistant and assistant to coach VanDerVeer, Paye has extensive experience with the program. Having nothing but praise for Paye, VanDerveer described her as "brilliant" and "hardworking." If Paye is the successor, the Stanford Cardinal will start a new chapter in the ACC, without star Cameron Brink. However, junior forward Kiki Iriafen showed just how valuable she is to the program.

Leaving her legacy in Paolo Alto, Tara VanDeveer has forever changed the landscape of women's basketball. Now she gets to enjoy life after coaching, witnessing the sport she contributed to evolving, soar to new heights.

Stay tuned for more NCAA and WNBA related articles.

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets.?She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in the Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.

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Sara Jane Gamelli

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In a historic outing, the South Carolina Gamecocks defeated the Iowa Hawkeyes 87-75 to capture the NCAA Women's Championship. South Carolina dominated in every way, from bench points to rebounds and defense. Iowa simply could not match their prolific three-pointer shooting and size.

One year ago, Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes knocked off South Carolina, ruining their perfect season in the Final Four. This time around, the Gamecocks were crowned champions, finishing a perfect 38-0 to finish out the season. Led by head coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks cruised into the history books on Sunday. For Gamecocks sophomore guard Raven Johnson, she got the last laugh.

Defeating Iowa 87-75, the Gamecocks are just the 10th team in Women's NCAA history to finish with a perfect season. As for Dawn Staley, she's built a dynasty in her tenure as head coach of South Carolina. Since taking over for Susan Walvius in 2008-2009, she's led the Gamecocks to three national championships. What's even more impressive is the fact she's captivated three trophies over the last seven seasons. Over the last decade, she's coached 10 WNBA first-round picks, soon to be 11.

Heading into the biggest game of the year, Staley was in attendance for the UConn vs. Iowa game. She had the perfect plan all along on how to perfectly utilize every single player on her roster. She figured out a way to stop the most prolific scorer in NCAA history, Caitlin Clark, which speaks volumes in itself. In a highly anticipated matchup, Staley brilliantly mapped out her masterful scheme to attack the Hawkeyes on the boards and utilize depth and size to crush them.

Although the 2022-2023 squad finished with a 36-1 record, it was a tough task to fill those shoes in the offseason.

Dawn Staley and the Gamecocks made history

Not only did South Carolina finish their first undefeated season in program history, but Staley is the first black Division 1 basketball coach, men's or women's, to lead her team to a perfect season. In doing so, Staley fully reconstructed her roster after losing all five of her starters--Aliyah Boston, Zia Cooke,?Laeticia Amihere,?and?Victaria Saxton to the 2023 WNBA Draft.

Johnson was the subject of several memes and viral highlights after she was disrespected in their last matchup. In last year's Final Four, Clark waved off Johnson, leaving her wide open at the three-point line. While Johnson had the opportunity to shoot the trey ball, she passed up the rock. After that matchup, Johnson confessed to watching the film over 100 times.

One year removed from the March Madness tournament, Johnson found herself as the primary lockdown defender on Caitlin Clark, Although Johnson struggled on the offensive end, she was tasked with guarding the Iowa sensation. Clark shot just 5-21 from the field when defended by Johnson. After she finished with 18 first-half points, coach Staley called for a change. She switched out Bree Hall on Clark, for Johnson. A menace on the defensive front, Johnson finished with four steals and two blocks. She understood her assignment, which was arguably the hardest task of anyone on the team.

Before the game, Johnson had a simple game plan in mind, "don't let her [Clark] score." She took the loss personally last year and had some words about her defensive approach:

"I was ready for the moment and take defense very hard, said Raven Johnson. "I studied her moves[ Caitlin Clark], and I was ready--I had confidence this year, and I was telling myself last year wasn't going to happen again."

Caitlin Clark was smothered by Raven Johnson

In the end, Clark couldn't lead her team to a National Championship, finishing with 30 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, on 10-28 shooting from the floor. Falling to win a championship for the second consecutive year, let's not take away from coach Lisa Bluder and the exceptional work she's put into the Iowa program. While Clark headlined the entire season, it was the story of her teammates, and her friends, that made the Iowa program so great. Sophomore Hannah Stuelke who's a rising star, had 11 points, three rebounds, two assists, and two blocks in the championship game.

With South Carolina chosen as heavy favorites entering the championship game, it was Iowa that held a 27-20 first-quarter lead. After an early 10-0 run, starting with a Kate Martin trey ball, the Hawkeyes looked untouchable and unbeatable. It wasn't until Te-Hina Paopao's three-point jumper that sent South Carolina in front with 27 seconds left in the second quarter. After commanding a 49-47 first-half lead, the Gamecocks never looked back. Paopao, who transferred to South Carolina for this very moment, finished with 14 points, on 75 percent three-point shooting. She announced her return to Columbia for next season.

Kamilla Cardoso had a career night on the boards

With defensive player of the year Kamilla Cardoso the anchor for South Carolina, it was the bench that grabbed the spotlight. Having one of the deepest rosters in the nation, the bench added 37 points for Staley and the Gamecocks. While the scoring was evenly distributed throughout the 10-player roster, it was the freshman who shined through.

Minnesota native Tessa Johnson was recruited by Staley to produce off the bench in her first season. A 6'1 guard, Johnson had a season average of 6.6 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.1 assists. In 35 games played, she earned the starting nod just two times for Staley and the Gamecocks. Although her minutes and scoring remained inconsistent for a great part of the season, Johnson has been a staple for the Staleys stay-ready group off the bench.

However, it's clear the freshman guard was recruited for a reason, and eventually earned coach Staley's trust. As the NCAA tournament progressed, so did her contributions to the team. After a season-high 30 minutes played against Presbyterian in the first round, the former McDonalds All-American continued to show why she's such a valuable asset to this squad. She finished with a combined 26 points against UNC in the Sweet 16, and Oregon State, in the Elite Eight. The trust was there for Johnson to earn 25 minutes of playing time against Iowa, and she shined in the biggest stage.

South Carolina's freshmen stole the show

And what a career night it was for Tessa Johnson. In front of the entire nation, and 18.9 million viewers, the freshman put up a career-high 19 points on 7-11 (63.6 percent) from the floor, and 3-6 (50 percent) from beyond the arc. Let's call it the "Tessa Johnson effect." In transition, or inside, Johnson was a bucket.

For Dawn Staley, her rotations were set for this matchup. While Iowa's bench didn't produce a single point, the Gamecocks capitalized on that. For freshman MiLaysia Fulwiley, she proved why she's the next generational talent. At 5'10, she possesses the quickness, speed, and finesse that no other athlete has proven in the game. In 18 minutes, she added nine points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and one block.

Overall, all of Staley's players had a crucial role in the Championship game. Running double bigs with Cardoso and Chloe Kitts was brilliant, as Iowa was a bit undersized. Ashlyn Watkins, Sania Feagin--everyone had a piece of the pie. It was the overall collaborative effort that impressed me the most. While it's normal for coaches to shorten their rotations during championship moments, Staley put the nation on full display who in fact plays for her.

As for Kamilla Cardoso, she certainly increased her draft stock on Sunday. Declaring for the 2024 WNBA Draft as a senior, center shined, even while battling an injury. It was in the Final Four matchup, where she injured her knee against NC State. Although she received treatment, Cardoso made sure the injury didn't stop her from competing in the biggest moment.

South Carolina Gamecocks were too powerful in depth and size

The bottom line, the Iowa Hawkeyes weren't able to match South Carolina's size, especially with Cardoso listed as 6'7. Cardoso has been a problem the entire season for opponents and showed exactly why in the title game. Although Staley managed her minutes to perfection, Cardoso finished with 15 points and a career-high 17 rebounds. While 10 of those came on the defensive end, seven helped the Gamecocks control the offensive boards and second-chance opportunities. South Carolina ultimately obliterated Iowa on the boards, 51-29.

Cardoso, named Most Outstanding Player, put it all on the floor in her last collegiate game. Adding three blocks and two assists, the Brazil native was simply getting it done on both ends of the floor. When Iowa continued to drive inside, Cardoso was there to lock it up. With several and one opportunities, not even Iowa standout Hannah Stuelke could stop her. Outscoring Iowa 48-32 in the paint, Chloe Kitts poured in a double-double as well, with 11 points, and 10 rebounds.

Sunday was the ultimate matchup between the most outstanding offensive in the nation (Iowa) vs. the top defense (South Carolina).

After the game, the tears were flowing for coach Staley. In a post-game interview with Holly Rowe, Staley stated "We serve an unbelievable god," before breaking down in tears. With all of the hard work she's put into the program, it's always been her relationship with her faith and God that's made all things possible this season.

Hats off to both teams. No matter what the outcome, the growth of both teams has shaped the future of women's basketball for years to come.

Stay tuned for more?NCAA and WNBA-related?articles.?Click here

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets.?She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.

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At the USA Basketball Junior National Team Mini-Camp, we had a chance to interview fast-rising big man Xavion Staton of Sierra Vista (Las Vegas). The 6-foot-11 rising senior (2025) is one of the fast-rising prospects in the country and a name to know for the future.

RELATED: Staton An Eye-Catcher At USA Basketball

Staton is an excellent student who has picked up offers from all over the country in the past six months, from the likes of Stanford to Blue Bloods like Kansas. He arguably has as much upside as any of the 65 players who were in attendance at the Mini-Camp over final our weekend, but it wasn't always this way. In fact, it wasn't long ago when Staton thought his future was in another sport.

We talk with Staton about his camp experience, his background, his introduction into organized basketball that was fueled by a COVID-19 growth spurt and whom he emulates.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

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Sara Jane Gamelli

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South Carolina rolls by NC State to reach their second NCAA Women's Championship game in three years.

You have to give credit where credit is due. Head coach Dawn Staley and the Gamecocks were expected to regress after losing a bulk of their starters last season. Instead, for the first time in program history, South Carolina finished undefeated on the year. A perfect 37-0, the no. 1 Gamecocks secured themselves a Final Four victory over no. 3 NC State Wolfpack. In attendance were former Gamecocks, Aliyah Boston and A'ja Wilson.

And now they are the first team to head to the NCAA Finals with an undefeated record for the first time since the UConn Huskies in 2016.

South Carolina entered this matchup as the heavy favorites by an 11.5-point spread after knocking off Presbyterian, UNC, Indiana, and Oregon State in the previous rounds. Leading the nation with a +29.3 point differential, they showed the basketball world just who they were on Friday.

In a post-game interview with Indiana Fever center on ESPN, Staley shared a heartfelt moment with her former player. While Boston was a staple of their championship run, it was Iowa that sent them packing in last year's Final Four. Stating how proud she is of the former Gamecock, she reiterated they want to seek redemption for Boston. Boston was a four-year player for Staley at South Carolina and was drafted No.1 overall by Indiana in the 2023 WNBA Draft.

"We're excited", Staley told ESPN's Aliyah Boston. "This is the place we wanted to be. We want to do it for you. We really want to take care of Sunday for you and the freshies because you gave basketball everything you had, and you came up short in your senior year."

The Gamecocks broke the game open in the third quarter

Tied 16 all in the first quarter, the Wolfpack kept the game relatively close, 32-31 at the have. While NC State had an incredible season, they truly never had a chance against the Gamecocks. Undefeated. Dominant. South Carolina steamrolled past another team in the tournament. Led by 6'7 center Kamila Cardoso, she finished with a game-high 22 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks, on 10-12 field goal shooting.

And just like that - GAMECOCKS UP 1⃣2⃣!! TIMEOUT NC STATE

@espn pic.twitter.com/1piImuZ1WN

— South Carolina Women's Basketball (@GamecockWBB) April 6, 2024

Heading into the third quarter, the Gamecocks turned on the Jets, outscoring NC State 29-6 in the third quarter. Yes, you heard that right, NC State scored just six points. Showing their defensive prowess, this team plays their best when they run plays on both sides of the ball through Cardoso. Aside from a pair of free throws, Wolfpack guard Aziaha James scored the lone bucket in the third quarter. NC State shot 1-11 as a whole in the third. In fact their 29 points in that quarter was the most scored in given period in Women's Final Four history.

Credit James, who finished with a team-high 20 points on 6-17 shooting. Although South Carolina put the clamps on her, James was the glue to their magical March Madness run. While Cardoso had a field day in the paint, it was more about the depth of South Carolina and their contributions off the bench.

Saniya Rivers, who won a title with South Carolina, transferred to NC State her sophomore year. This season, she averaged 12.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists. A main staple for their success, Rivers struggled, shooting just 2-11 from the floor with five turnovers.

Lucky for Staley, she had the luxury of resting Cardoso in the fourth quarter. This came after she suffered an apparent leg injury in the third quarter. Although she returned, the center donned a black leg sleeve for the rest of the matchup.

Staley built talent around Kamilla Cardoso

Speaking of the bench, it was Ashlyn Watkins who received heavy minutes of playing time. Standing at 6 foot 3, the guard became the first player in South Carolina women's basketball history to record a dunk in 2022 vs. Clemson. Showcasing her incredible vertical leap and spacing, Watkins grabbed 20 boards against NC State. South Carolina dominated NC State on the rebounds, 46-32.

A force on the inside, 15 of her 20 rebounds came on the defensive end. Limiting NC State to just 32.3 percent from the field and 26.1 percent from deep, it was securing defensive stops and rebounds which led to offensive opportunities. In addition to her enormous efforts on the glass, Watkins poured in eight points, one assist, and two blocks.

During that colossal third quarter, the Gamecocks missed only seven field goal attempts. It was third-year guard Raven Johnson who impressed the most. Initially headed to the locker room with an apparent injury, she came back to finish with 13 points, on 3-5 three-point shooting. A lockdown defender, Johnson added three steals and five assists on the night. She shot 4-5 from the floor in the second half.

SOUTH CAROLINA IS HEADED TO THE FINALS

The Gamecocks defeat NC State 78-59 and cover the -11.5 point spread pic.twitter.com/ibXdnTxQgG

— Ballislife Bets (@BallislifeBets) April 6, 2024

In a talented backfield, Senior transfer Te-Hina Paopao finished with 10 points on 2-5 three-point shooting. Dishing out six dimes, the guard hit 100 percent of her three-point shots in the third quarter. Up 21 points with seconds remaining, Bree Hall splashed a three to end the quarter. This shows beyond the talent and rim protection of Cardoso, there's a multitude of players that can step up at any given time. And the fact that Staley refuses to let off the gas shows how dangerous this team is.

South Carolina's bench produced 30 points

Although NC State outscored South Carolina 22-17 in the final quarter, Dawn Staley received 30 points from the bench alone. While freshman Milaysia Fulwiley struggled on the offensive end, she was a menace on the defensive side with four steals. I do believe she is a rising star and could become an X-factor in the championship game. Tessa Johnson, Fulwiley, Watkins, and Sania Feagin--they are such important members of this team.

Overall, the Gamecocks showed everyone their true selves. A physically dominant team on both sides of the ball that continues to hammer teams. The most complete team in the NCAA tournament, it's time we hand coach Staley her flowers. National champions in 2022 and 2017, this is Staley's sixth finals appearance since her first season as head coach (2008). One of the best coaches to ever grace the game, Staley is revolutionizing women's basketball.

We can't forget when Caitlin Clark waved off Raven Johnson in last year's Final Four victory over South Carolina. While Iowa destroyed their perfect season, Staley, the Naismith Coach of the Year, will look to build on the dynasty she's created in South Carolina.

Stay tuned for more?NCAA and WNBA-related?articles.?Click here

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration

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In an exhilarating Final Four matchup between the Iowa Hawkeyes and UConn Huskies, Iowa will play South Carolina in the NCAA Championship game on Sunday.

The Iowa Hawkeyes are headed to their second straight NCAA Women's Final.

Friday evening was an unforgettable matchup between the no. 1 Iowa Hawkeyes and no. 3 UConn Huskies. While headlines swirled around stars Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers, it was the supporting casts that made the matchup so impressive. A blood bath until the end, Iowa defeated UConn 71-69 to advance to the NCAA Championship game vs. South Carolina.

Unfortunately, the matchup didn't come without controversy. Down by one point with less than 10 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter, UConn center Aliyah Edwards was nabbed for the offensive screen against Gabbie Marshall. Foul or not, Marshall has excelled in drawing charges her entire career.

While it's generated buzz around social media, it was a call that secured the victory for Iowa. While Bueckers downplayed the call, the Huskies were cut short of a potential game tying bucket to win the game. No matter if the call was right or not, it was heart breaking for the Huskies.

pic.twitter.com/qvMbjaqmo3 https://t.co/CzNgZb69Ys

— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) April 6, 2024

Visibly upset in the post-game conference, Geno Auriemma gave his thoughts on that final possession call.

There’s probably an illegal screen call that you could make on every single possession,” said Auriemma. “I just know there were three or four of them called on us. And I don’t think there were any called on them. So, I guess we just gotta get better at not setting illegal screens." (CBS Sports).

While there was scrutiny towards the referees for the end of gameplay, we can't let that take away from the brilliance between these two teams. A revenge game for Iowa, they were previously bumped from the Sweet 16 during Clark's freshman season by UConn. This time, Iowa coach Lisa Bluder and the Hawkeyes simply had too much chemistry and depth to slide by the Huskies.

UConn vs. Iowa made history

One for the history books, the highly anticipated Final Four matchup generated 14.2 million viewers on ESPN. According to the network, the viewership peaked at 17 million spectators, making it the most-watched Women's college basketball game in history. Per ESPN, it was the most-viewed college event to air on ESPN+, and ESPN's second-best non-football telecast ever.

Those incredible stats not only emphasize the importance of this match-up but also the growth and evolution of women's basketball. No matter what the outcome, this will go down as one of the most impactful matchups the game has ever seen.

All eyes have surrounded Caitlin Clark and her quest to pass Pete Maravich for the all-time NCAA scoring record. The nation-leading scorer passed Maravich for the record with 49 points against Michigan, making her the most prolific scorer of all time. Notorious for her lengthy three-point attempts, she struggled against the Huskies early on.

UConn entered the matchup as three-point underdogs, in large part due to injuries. With a six-player rotation, head coach Geno Auriemma knew the high possibility of foul troubles.

UConn put the clamps on Clark, yet her team shined

Up by a game-high 12 points, the Huskies defense was stifling. Forcing the Hawkeyes to turn the ball over 14 times, it was their defensive poise that kept the score close for most of the game. Clark was smothered by UConn guard Nika Muhl, limited to six points and zero three-pointers in the first half. Quick on their feet, Auriemma's defensive scheme was nothing short of incredible while guarding Clark. Heavily utilizing their double-team system, Clark was forced to pass up the ball on several occasions.

The Huskies are putting the CLAMPS on Caitlin Clark

UConn Leads 13-7 pic.twitter.com/IbxJhuiYCq

— Ballislife Bets (@BallislifeBets) April 6, 2024

After the game, Clark commented on UConn's defense, especially Nika Muhl, who held the Hawkeyes to 8-25 three-point shooting.

"UConn is a really good defensive team, one of the best defensive teams we’ve seen all year, said Clark. I think Nika did a tremendous job guarding me." (March Madness PR)

For the Huskies, freshman guard KK Arnold was largely responsible for their lead, as she finished with 14 points, on 6-10 field goal shooting. While Arnold compiled 5 steals, she entered foul trouble early on. Although the Wisconsin native never fouled out, her time off the court deeply impacted the Huskies.

UConn had limited depth and fell into foul trouble

Center Aliyah Edwards had no choice but to let some Iowa buckets slide due to foul trouble. However, she was a force for the Huskies on the defensive end, adding five steals and one block. Able to take advantage of the mismatches below, she finished with 17 points, and eight rebounds, on 8-15 shooting.

As for UConn star Paige Bueckers, she was bottled up by Iowa's box-and-1 defense, who has been in play all season. Over the matchup, Bueckers finished with just 17 points, on 7-17 field goal shooting. Just 3-8 from three-point range, the guard had trouble finding her rhythm on the offensive end. While it wasn't her best performance, the Hawkeyes forced Bueckers to pass up the rock. In this case, we saw UConn's impact of injuries and lack of experience come back to haunt them.

Ashlynn Shade, Ice Brady, and KK Arnold have been extremely influential as freshmen on this Huskies team. While Brady banked two massive shots towards the end of the game, Shade struggled from the three, hitting just 1-5 from deep. UConn was never supposed to be in this position, and having such success put enormous pressure on the freshman.

Although the Huskies were ultimately defeated, the future is very bright for these young players. How many coaches can say they led their team to the final four with three of their six players listed as freshman?

W.#Hawkeyes pic.twitter.com/pEAxsd2Nz9

— Iowa Women's Basketball (@IowaWBB) April 6, 2024

Iowa is headed to the NCAA Women's Final Championship for the second straight year

For Clark, she found herself and Iowa down by 32-26 at the half. And in true Caitlin Clark fashion, she stepped up when it mattered most. While the overall performance was uncharacteristic of her overall play, Clark finished with 21 points on 7-18 shooting. Adding in nine rebounds and seven assists, Clark was just 3-11 from deep.

The momentum began to shift with 3:49 remaining in the third quarter for Iowa. Down 44-42, Clark completed a four-point play after fouled at the three-point line by Shade. Tied 51-51, Clark sunk seven of her 21 points in the final quarter.

A close game until the final seconds, it was Nika Muhl who put up a bucket after compiling her third steal of that game. While the Huskies closed the gap to just one point, it was Sydney Affolter who came up with the colossal offensive board after a Clark miss at the charity stripe.

Iowa's Hannah Stuelke was the real mvp

Sure, Clark and Bueckers had significant effects on the game. However, for Iowa, it was the story of sophomore center Hannah Stuelke. Able to dominate in the paint, she finished with a team-high 23 points on 9-12 shooting. Arguably the best player on the court, her 11 third-quarter points brought the Hawkeyes back to life. Similar to a quarterback and their tight end, Clark and Stuelke have undeniable chemistry.

For Stuelke, it was all about aggressiveness and confidence. While she finished with one of the prime games of her career, it's the entire team that showed out.

"I think the confidence is everything," said Stuelke. "Especially hearing Caitlin Clark talk about me like that, it gives me a confidence boost. I think anyone would say that. But they just fed me the ball very well. The ball was going in for me tonight." (March Madness PR)

Overall, it was an impressive showing for two teams who had dreams of making the final stage. An overall effort by every single player on Iowa's roster, they will face South Carolina in the NCAA Women's National Championship game. While the Gamecocks remain undefeated, it was Clark and the Hawkeyes that ended their perfect run last season in the 2023 Final Four.

With tip-off slated for 3:00 p.m. ET Sunday, it will be a dogfight between South Carolina and Iowa for the National Championship. For Caitlin Clark and Kamilla Cardoso, they will see one more game in their collegiate uniforms.

Stay tuned for more NCAA and WNBA-related articles. Click here

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration

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Approximately 65 of some of the finest home grown high school talent was in display in Phoenix for the USA Basketball Junior National Team Minicamp. For some camp veterans such as Koa Peat, a 2025 forward out of FAB 50 ranked Perry (Chandler, Ariz.), the experience is nothing new and it's the start of the process of competing at the FIBA 17U World Cup taking place June 29 through July 7 in Istanbul, Turkey. Expect Peat, a three time high school state champion, to be one of the team's leaders.

Today we wanted to highlight the players who made a favorable impression over the first two days by approaching the mini-camp playing the right way, under control and with pace. This is not about passing the look test, as some players look like they belong but have a long way to go in terms of their I.Q. and approach. The theme here is making a favorable impression by being coachable and not pressing or forcing the action.

Here's five participants who caught our eye in those departments and five more who impressed.

Davion Adkins, Oak Cliff Faith Family (Dallas), 6-8 2026 PF
We we first evaluated this well put together 16-year old forward at the Pangos All-South Frosh/Soph Camps, his motor and rim-running stood out, but he's added plenty to his game since then. Adkins had added solid post moves over both shoulders to compliment his vertical pop. He converted a couple of terrific left-handed half hooks and displayed nice touch around the basket. Adkins' pace and patience made a big difference and national scouts and some NBA personnel definitely came away impressed. Adkins plays for a winning high school program and is using the experience to learn how to adjust his offensive game playing against forwards of similar size and skill.

Devin Cleveland, Kenwood Academy (Chicago), 6-1 2027 PG
We counted 10 2027s in attendance and Cleveland was among the few that really turned heads in a class that has a long ways to go (and plenty of time) to develop. As a 15-year old, many of the older players and upperclassmen in attendance could learn a thing or two about place from Cleveland, who has a cool-under-fire disposition on and off the court. While many of the young guards were forcing the action and getting into trouble with the dribble, Cleveland has a good grasp of the stop-and-pop game and not taking it too deep into the paint to get caught in no man's land. Cleveland can cover ground with the dribble and displays a nice-pull up jumper. He can also finish under control around the rim with both hands and has a competitive drive that will pay off down the line. If he keeps developing at a normal pace, Cleveland has a bright future in the game.

Hudson Greer, Lake Travis (Texas), 6-6 2025 WF
This 17-year old is a well-known commodity on the high school and grassroots circuit and is making a splash at USA Basketball this weekend. Greer had some nagging injuries this past season for Lake Travis, and gutted them out well enough to earn district MVP honors. Already a two-time district MVP, Greer displayed a terrific all-around skill level and when his legs are bouncy and he's at 100 percent like he was here, it takes his game to a whole other level. Greer was knocking down shots at a high clip and finishing in traffic with authority. He also got behind the defense and used his stride to get out and finish before the defense could get set. Greer reminds us some of former Florida St. standout Bob Sura and his confidence and eagerness to get better really shined through on Saturday.

Jacob Lanier, Maumelle (Ark.), 6-5 2026 WF
This 17-year old prospect is just scratching the surface of his potential and coming out of his shell at this level. On the first day, Lanier turned heads and caught the attention of national scouts with his shot making ability off the dribble and his movement off-the-ball. On the second day, he was lauded for not losing his composure during stretches of out-of-control play by the lead guards on his team. Lanier moves without the ball well and can score in a variety of ways, with a better than average float game. He's also an instinctual defender who is learning how to become more vocal on the court and take more of an alpha role. His progression is noticeable and will pay off plenty this spring and summer.

Xavion Staton, Sierra Vista (Las Vegas) 6-11 2025 C
With a dearth of traditional big men in attendance, Staton stands out for many reasons, and even if there were more in attendance, he'd still stand out. That's because he's a quick learner, smart both on and off the court (excellent student) and has tremendous upside. In fact, scouts and NBA personnel were surprised to learn he's been playing the game for only a short period of time (less than four years). Staton grew up playing football until a 6-7 inch growth spirt during the COVID-19 Pandemic made him and his family realize the gridiron was likely not in his long-term future. With his defensive instinct and vertical pop and second jump ability, Staton has a bright future on the hardwood. The 17-year old was blocking shots at a high clip and there might not be a player in the country that alters more shots with his presence than Staton. Another plus is he doesn't do too much he's not capable of right now and quickly moves the ball when he doesn't have an advantage. Few players are getting more out of the USA Basketball experience than this Las Vegas big man who quickly has the interest of P5 schools around the country.

5 More That Impressed:

Mikel Brown Jr., Overtime Elite (Atlanta), 6-2 2025 PG
Not many guards here can rip a crossover into a pull-up, but Brown has a nice offensive arsenal with the ball.
Junior County, Utah Prep (Manti, Utah) 6-5 2026 SG
One of the best shooting strokes of any player in attendance.
Jaylen Mitchell, Reitz Memorial (Evansville, Ind.) 6-7 2027 WF
This 15-year old was making the right passes and displayed a nice shooting touch.
Chris Nwuli, Wasatch Academy (Mt. Pleasant, Utah) 6-8 SF
Las Vegas native has been up and down on the circuit the past two years, but deserves credit because his outside shot was on point on Saturday and he brought his usual energy and toughness to make winning plays.
Babatunde Oladotun, Blake (Silver Spring, Md.) 6-7 2027 SF
There is plenty to like about this 15-year old who knows how to play with the ball and sets grown man screens. He has a good offensive base, to boot.

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

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LeBron James might finally get the chance to team up with his son in the NBA after all.

On Friday morning, USC freshman Bronny James announced on Instagram that he will be entering the 2024 NBA Draft with a heartfelt message. Just days prior, James announced he would enter the NCAA transfer portal for next season.

BRONNY JAMES HAS DECLARED FOR THE NBA DRAFT

Will he team up with LeBron? Where do you see him headed? pic.twitter.com/5bbBkfE5Dw

— Ballislife Bets (@BallislifeBets) April 5, 2024

"I've made the decision to enter the NBA Draft, while maintaining my college eligibility, and will also be entering the NCAA portal," said James on his personal Instagram account. "Thank you to USC for an amazing Freshman year, and as always thankful for my family, friends, doctors, athletic trainers and fans for their support."

Bronny James, the son of NBA star LeBron James, finished his first season as a member of the USC Trojans. At 19 years old, James played just 25 of the Trojan's 33 games. 15-18 on the season, Bronny got the starting nod just six times. In his first year, he averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists. He primarily earned a bench role this season, behind guards Boogie Ellis, and Isaiah Collier.

Bronny entered the NCAA Transfer Portal earlier this week

Recruited as a potential lottery pick in this year's draft, his numbers have decreased due to limited playing time. While he's the son of LeBron James, that may affect his draft stock. Either way, Bronny can hoop, and may need more time to prove that. But who knows, maybe NBA GMs have already seen his raw talent.

While averaging 19.4 minutes per game, Bronny had a standout performance during USC's loss to Oregon State in late December. Perhaps his most efficient game, James finished with 15 points on 6-11 shooting off the bench.

Considering all of his options, James revealed his decision to enter the NCAA transfer portal as well. While joining his father in the NBA would be groundbreaking, returning to collegiate basketball offers him the chance to hone his skills and gain more experience.

Bronny James has committed to USC!

pic.twitter.com/v2kIFUtbze

— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) May 6, 2023

Former Trojans head coach Andy Enfield's move to the SMU Mustangs didn't catch many off guard. With his departure after an 11-year stint, it's expected that there will be significant changes to the roster. Coaching transitions can have a big impact on players, as evidenced by Nick Saban's departure from Alabama football. Since then, Eric Musselman, former Arkansas head coach, was hired to replace Enfield.

Bronny James overcame adversity this year

In a social media post, Bronny acknowledged the last year was filled with "some ups and downs." In late July, James suffered cardiac arrest, in which LeBron James revealed his son underwent surgery following a congenital heart defect. While his future was in doubt over the summer, he's since been cleared by doctors to return to the game he loves the most.

The 6 foot 4 guard returned to USC, making his collegiate debut against Long Beach State on Dec. 10.

According to the Athletics Shams Charania, his decision to declare for the draft while maintaining NCAA eligibility will give James multiple options. He added James will "work out for and visit NBA teams and make a decision based on evaluation."

A four star recruit out of Sierra Canyon, James was named an All-American in high school. With his future in the air, it's possible he gains experience in the G-league before heading to the stage. LeBron James has shown interest in playing alongside his son in the NBA, but it might be better for Bronny to go back to NCAA basketball.

Returning to college would give him a chance to gauge NBA expectations and his own skills against others. Plus, he'd have many recruiting opportunities if he chooses to return to college. While he will workout for NBA teams, he will have until Jun. 16 to withdraw from the NBA Draft.

LeBron James: “I got to be on the floor with Bronny"

Shortly after Bronny James entered the NCAA transfer earlier this week, LeBron gave his thoughts to Lakers reporter Jovan Buha following the Lakers 128-111 victory over Toronto.

"Bronny is his own man," said James. "He has a tough decision to make.  When he’s ready to make those decisions he’ll let us all know. But as his family, we’ll support whatever he does."

No matter the outcome, Bronny is supported by the King himself, who is slated to become a free agent at the end of the year. While his future remains up in the air, he has the talent to play in the NBA.

If Bronny does choose to continue his career in the NBA, both he and LeBron will have the chance to make history. They would be the first father-son duo to play in the NBA simultaneously.

Stay tuned for more related NBA articles and podcasts. Click here

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.

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The two wins in Chicago put The Crew's record at 33-5, but their season isn’t over just yet.

Sitting at No. 6 in the latest FAB 50 National Team Rankings powered by www.ebooksnet.com, the Prolific Prep Crew is Indianapolis bound for the Chipotle High School Nationals (April 4-6), where they’ll be matched up against FAB 50 No. 11 Link Academy (Branson, Mo.) in the opening round. While many are already looking forward to that, let’s focus on the players who caught our eye and enhanced their recruiting stock at the event.

Here are the top stock risers from the Grind Session World Championship Final Four:

Mikey Lewis, 6’3, PG/SG, Prolific Prep (CA), 2024
Playing for one of the more loaded teams in the country, no one is going to be putting up video game numbers and everyone has to find their role on the hardwood. After dropping monster numbers last year with both Accelerated Prep (CO) and with the Oakland Soldiers in the EYBL, many wondered how Mikey Lewis would adjust to playing with so much talent at Prolific, but he has completely let the game come to him. The combo guard played outstanding on ball defense, created his own shot late in the shot clock, and let the game come to him without forcing the issue. Mikey is the key piece in an outstanding St. Mary’s recruiting class that will place them amongst the elite in the WCC yet again.

Savo Drezgic, 6’3, PG, DME Academy (FL), 2025
A highly touted European prospect, Savo Drezgic made the move from Serbia to Daytona Beach, Fla., to play his junior year at DME Academy. The lead guard had a heralded overseas career, playing with the Serbian National Team, at Basketball Without Borders events, and at the Adidas Next Generation Tournament with Partizan Belgrade. Savo possesses no shortage of flare on the court, has deep 3-point range, and has SportsCenter Top 10 passing ability. Drezgic is still getting acclimated to things here in the U.S., but should ultimately find himself with at least a Top 50 national ranking when it’s all said and done, which may be a bit on the conservative side.

Alejandro Aviles, 6’9, PF/C, Dream City Christian (CA), 2025
While there are definitely players who are more flashy in the Grind Session, there aren’t many junior bigs who were more productive than Alejandro Aviles. In his two games in Chicago, he posted 24 points, 14 rebounds in a win against DME and was a playmaker from the post with 10 points, eight rebounds, and five assists against eventual champion Prolific Prep. The Puerto Rican junior can punish you on the low block, has range to the 3-point line (hit two 3-pointers in each game), and has the ability to hit cutters from the post. Having already established quite the reputation in Puerto Rico playing with their 18U team, he is beginning to do the same with Dream City here in the States.

Ifaola “Tacko” Fawaz, 6’11, C, Dream City Christian (AZ), 2025
Like many on this list, the impact that Tacko Fawaz has on the floor extends far beyond the box score. The junior big man is outstanding running the floor, is a constant lob threat, and walls up against anyone attacking the paint defensively as a rim protector. Fawaz ultimately finished with six points and six rebounds against national power Prolific Prep, but certainly made everyone think twice about challenging him at the rack. The junior already holds no shortage of offers from high major programs and will be running on the Adidas 3SSB Circuit with the Utah Prospects this spring.

Cory Connor, 6’2, PG, Prolific Prep (CA), 2024
One of the glue guys for Prolific Prep, Cory Connor brings the versatility and intangibles that don't show up in the box score. The Seattle native excelled guarding both backcourt spots, was a reliable 3-point shooter when left open, and had no problem finishing through contact on straight line attacks to the rim. Connor is still wide open with his recruitment and will be an interesting name to follow with Prolific Prep when it heads to Chipotle Nationals (April 4-6).

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UConn star Paige Bueckers is thriving more than ever, this time leading the Huskies to the NCAA Women's Sweet 16.

"We have the best player in America."

Those were confident words from Geno Auriemma on Monday night. And whom might he be referring to? Paige Bueckers, no. 5 for the Connecticut Huskies.

When it comes to sports, the stories behind the athletes on the court are often moving and emotional. For Paige Bueckers, she's been nothing short of inspiring. While women's basketball is filled to the brim with incredible storylines, we simply cannot forget UConn's brightest star and her journey back to the hardwood.

Talk about Paige Bueckers resilience and passion for basketball. This is her comeback narrative, driven by her faith and determination to return to the game. It's oftentimes not about the setback, but about the comeback.

Paige "Buckets" is back, and so are the UConn Huskies.

Bueckers, now technically in her third season with the Connecticut Huskies, is undoubtedly one of the most prevalent players in the nation. While she's an elite scorer and tenacious defender, the Minnesota native's been plagued by unlucky injuries. The former McDonald's All-American suffered a tibial plateau fracture in late December 2021 in which surgery was performed. Along with the fracture, Bueckers suffered a meniscus tear.

While many expected No. 5 to miss the bulk of the season, she made a miraculous, yet limited comeback in Feb. of 2022. Despite being restricted on the court, Bueckers fueled the Huskies through the 2022 NCAA Tournament. A team that once fell out of the AP top ten was destined to face the South Carolina Gamecocks in the 2022 NCAA Championship game.

Although South Carolina barreled through UConn 64-49 for the championship title, it was the story of no. 5 and her persistence to return to the court. While the outcome didn't sway in the Huskies favor, Bueckers was the only player on the UConn roster to put up points in double figures.

How many players can claim they led their team to the championship game despite not being fully healthy? This is what sets Bueckers apart and makes her exceptional among the pack.

Paige Bueckers missed the entire 2022-2023 season

Unfortunately, that was the last time Bueckers would hit the floor for quite some time. Heading into her junior season, the guard suffered a torn ACL in the off-season. Having missed all of the 2022-2023 season, the Minnesota native spent the majority of the season cheering on her teammates from the sidelines.

Paige Bueckers' IG post about her torn ACL:

"It's gonna be one hell of a comeback...I’ve worked too hard for the little kid in these pictures to keep going for the dreams I've had since I first picked up the ball, so why would I stop now?" pic.twitter.com/f7lsyYQCiN

— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) August 3, 2022

Despite missing Bueckers from the lineup, the Huskies managed to make the 2023 NCAA Tournament. However, for no. 5 it was a punch to the gut, especially since she wasn't available to play. After conceding to Ohio State 73-61 in the Sweet 16, the Huskies were once again eliminated from the tournament.

But for Bueckers, she was exceptionally emotional after their 77-58 victory over Baylor in the second round. Although UConn pulled off the victory, it pained her to watch from the sidelines. Bueckers wanted more than anything to contribute on the floor with her teammates. Not only does she love the game of basketball, but she bleeds blue. Her loyalty to UConn and coach Auriemma is unwavering.

"Last year against Baylor in the second round at home, I just remember going back in my car and just being very emotional," Bueckers told ESPN. "Not being able to play in this atmosphere, in this environment, and this high stakes game. I prayed about it."

While the journey back to the court hasn't been an easy task, Bueckers heavily leaned on her faith during hard times. Over a year of rehabbing her injury, the guard made her season debut against Dayton in late 2023.

Not only did no. 5 overcome such a tragic injury, but she elevated her game in a way that's turned heads across the basketball world. Despite the Huskies facing multiple injuries, including Azzi Fudd, it was Bueckers' moment to stand out.

And surely, she did so. Bueckers, who was recently named AP All-American, averaged a career-high 21 points per game, 5.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 2.2 steals, and 1.4 blocks. In 36 total games, the UConn star shot an efficient 54 percent from the floor, and 41.8 percent from deep. The UConn star was recently named Naismith Player of the Year finalist.

It's been nearly two years since Bueckers appeared in a March Madness game

And 720 days later, Bueckers would take part in her first March Madness game since the South Carolina matchup. This comes after Bueckers sensation performance that led UConn to their fourth straight Big East Championship. In the blowout over Georgetown, the guard put up 27 points, four rebounds, three assists, three steals, and five blocks.

In the Huskies first-round matchup against Jackson State, the guard finished with 28 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists, three steals, and one block. From there, UConn faced off against Syracuse in the round of 32. In front of an electric crowd at Gampel Pavilion, Bueckers was surely a bucket. Stepping up when it mattered the most, she matched a season-high 32 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, four steals, and one block.

Paige Buckets last 2 games

32 PTS, 11 REB, 6 AST, 4 STL (56% FG)
28 PTS, 11 REB, 7 AST, 3 STL (58% FG)pic.twitter.com/sXDxzpENsV

— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) March 26, 2024

While Syracuse cut the deficit to two points, Bueckers knew the moment was all hers. With 1:30 remaining in the fourth quarter, without hesitation, no. 5 sunk a contested mid-range jumper. At this moment, her shot put the Huskies in the lead, 67-63. From there, Bueckers was seen firing up the crowd at Gampel.

Not only did she lead the Huskies to their 30th straight Sweet 16, but it was also a sure sign of a dominant comeback. Paige Bueckers, a five-star recruit in 2020 was officially back. It was visible in her eyes, her body language, and in her tone. It's incredible moving to see the return of a player who was heavily plagued by injuries.

Bueckers has been lights out in this year's tournament

Following her first two matchups of the tournament, Buecker's energy is unmatched. With 60 points in the first two games, Bueckers is now the first player in nearly 25 years to put up a cumulative 60 points, 20 rebounds, and 10 assists. While she announced her return to UConn next season, she's laid everything out on the court for the Huskies. Amid questions if she could return to her freshman form, she never lost sight of her dreams and goals. For sure, optimism has gone a long way for Paige Bueckers, and all of the hard work that's been poured into her craft.

Bueckers had an inspirational journey back, and one that speaks to many. When you come to Storrs, Connecticut, you come to play for coach Auriemma, and you come to win. In the small town of Tolland County, Connecticut, Bueckers and the Connecticut Huskies will aim for their first championship of the 2016 season and nothing more.

Bueckers and company will face the Kara Lawson and the Duke Blue Devils in the Sweet 16. Scheduled for Mar. 30, tip-off will begin at 8:00 p.m. ET.

Stay tuned for more NCAA and WNBA related articles.

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in the Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.

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USC Trojans freshman JuJu Watkins passes legend Cheryl Miller for the single-season scoring record with 833 points.

USC freshman phenomenon JuJu Watkins has shined in her first year in the Trojans, collecting all sorts of personal accolades. Having a profound effect on the program, Watkins and the Trojans are headed to their first Sweet 16 since the 1993-1994 season.

The irony in all this? In 1994, WNBA stars Lisa Leslie and Tina Thompson were key members of the team, while USC standout Cheryl Miller briefly served as head coach.

And now, Watkins passed Miller for the USC Trojan's all-time single scoring record in her first season. While there's a magnitude of talent, especially among freshmen in NCAA Women's basketball, Watkins has set the stage to become the next generational star. Right front and center, Cheryl Miller has been her no. 1 supporter and mentor through it all.

JUJU WATKINS
Broke the USC freshman record for most points scored in a season!

Last 8 Games
30 PTS, 3 BLK, 3 STL
42 PTS, 4 STL
18 PTS, 11 REB
33 PTS, 8 AST, 4 STL
32 PTS, 7 AST, 4 BLK
31 PTS, 7 REB
29 PTS, 4 STL
51 PTS, 11 REB

VIDEO: @btweenxthelinespic.twitter.com/Q6uYl5Bth5

— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) February 26, 2024

And you love to see former trailblazers who paved the way by helping young stars in the game today. Watkins is full of toughness, and grit, and has what it takes to be great. Although she's towards the beginning of her journey, she's a rising star in the game. While several legendary athletes tend to disappear after their careers, it's incredible to see the involvement and faith Miller has in the USC program and Watkins.

Calling Miller the "goat," Watkins reflected on the Icon after their first-round victory.

"She trusts in my mentality," Watkins told the media via March Madness PR. "I think we're similar in some ways, as far as the competitiveness to want to win. She's always encouraged that, and encouraged me never to lose that." (March Madness PR)

Watkins broke several USC records in her freshman campaign

What's not to love about Watkins? Not only did she help lead her team past Stanford for the Pac-12 Championship, but no. 12 continues to break every USC record. She had an unforgettable 51-point performance against Stanford, which sent shockwaves across the basketball world. In that matchup, Watkins became the first Trojan to ever score 51 points in a game.

Related article: Rising Star: Freshman JuJu Watkins stuns with 51-point performance

While she had a season-low nine points in the conference championship, her impact of just appearing on the court is profound. It's her innate ability to fill the box score in other ways, and her maturity to handle pressure at such a young age.

Averaging 26.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists in her first year, the LA native is bringing excitement back to Los Angeles. Under coach Lindsay Gottlieb, USC punched their way to a second consecutive NCAA appearance, breaking an eight-year drought for the program. Although the Trojans had brief first and second-round exits under coach Cynthia Cooper and Mark Trakh, Watkins and Gottlieb are brewing something special. There's something to be said about "JuJu and the nerds." Gottlieb has built a a force of talent around Watkins, which includes Harvard transfer McKenzie Forbes.

With USC making headlines, Watkins was named AP All-American first team. She was honored next to Caitlin Clark (Iowa), Paige Bueckers (UConn), Hannah Hidalgo (Notre Dame), and Cameron Brink (Stanford). That in itself speaks volumes.

She passes Cheryl Miller for the all-time USC single-season scoring record

833 total points is nothing to sniff at. While the headlines have mainly surrounded other athletes in women's basketball, it's Watkins and the upcoming freshman that will define the evolution and growth of women's hoops in the future. FurthWatkins finished her sensational freshman campaign with the third most points among freshmen in NCAA history. She trailed only Kelsey Mitchell from Ohio State, who scored 873 points, and Tina Hutchinson from San Diego State, who is the all-time leader.

Entering the NCAA tournament as the no. 1 seed for the first time since 1986, the Trojans faced the no. 16-seed Texas A&M-Corpus Christi in the Regional 3 in Portland. Limiting AMCC to just four points in the first quarter, it was Watkins that led the way with 23 points, five rebounds, and four assists.

Although she was cold beyond the arc, she was automatic from the midrange. Her ability to pass up the rock on fast breaks and drive to the basketball is a staple of her game. With a uniqueness to her offensive game, Watkins is hard to be stopped anywhere on the court. The second leading scoring in the nation, she's a walking bucket, and it extends well beyond the arc.

Watkins and USC are headed to the Sweet 16

While Watkins has shown several MVP-esque performances this season, JuJu Watkins continues to show why she makes a two-way impact on the game. Many will argue the talent gap was enormous between the two teams. However, four blocks and two steals is a statement, and the Trojans had 14 combined steals and blocks as a team.

JuJu Watkins poses with Bianka and Capri Bryant after breaking USC's single season scoring record

VanessaBryant/IG https://t.co/xJbSGcPa8G pic.twitter.com/yd80SGh840

— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) March 24, 2024

On Monday night, it was Watkins's double-double performance that lifted USC over Kansas 73-55 in the round of 32. This time around, she showcased her full talents on the court. Her ability to maneuver around screens from the three-point line, and drive through traffic was stellar. A true versatile three-way scorer, Watkins was blowing by the defenses in the paint. Her dominance was so effective on the offensive end, Kansas was forced to switch to a zone defense. She finished with 28 points, 11 rebounds, five assists, and two steals.

For Watkins and her teammates, it's all about confidence moving forward in the NCAA Tournament.

JuJu Watkins key to victory: having confidence

"It's important to have confidence," said Watkins. "I have a lot of confidence in this team. It's a lot on the line. But at the end of the day, I trust my teammates and I are going to get the job done." I didn't know what to expect. Still don't really know what to expect. I'm just here for the ride, knowing what I need to do every game. I'm just going to give all I can, and hopefully, that ends with the result that we want." ( March Madness PR)

Watkins can't be stopped, and most teams have run into this issue on the defensive front. A force to be reckoned with, the USC Trojans are a no.1. seed for a reason. Joining Iowa, South Carolina, and Texas as the top seeds in the nation, Watkins has was it takes to power her team to a deep run in the tournament. With 16 remaining teams, the Trojans will face off against no.1 Baylors on Saturday, Mar. 30.

If they survive against the Bears, USC has a shot of facing either Connecticut or Duke in the elite eight. With South Carolina showing they are once again the team to beat, how far of a run can USC make? Either way, Watkins is poised and ready for the moment.

Stay tuned for more NCAAW and March Madness related articles.?Click here

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator, and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets.?She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in the Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.

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The two wins in Chicago put The Crew's record at 33-5, but their season isn’t over just yet.

Sitting at No. 6 in the latest FAB 50 National Team Rankings powered by www.ebooksnet.com, the Prolific Prep Crew is Indianapolis bound for the Chipotle High School Nationals (April 4-6), where they’ll be matched up against FAB 50 No. 11 Link Academy (Branson, Mo.) in the opening round. While many are already looking forward to that, let’s focus on the outstanding performances that many of the Prolific players and others had to wrap up the Grind Session season.

Here are the top performers from the Grind Session World Championship Final Four:

A.J. Dybantsa, 6’8, SF/PF, Prolific Prep (CA), 2025
The top junior in the nation showed that he is just beginning to scratch the surface with his immense bag of talents, pacing Prolific Prep to the Grind Session World Championship with 24 points and eight boards in the title game. While his outside shot wasn’t falling at his typical rate, Dybantsa impacted the game in different ways, utilizing his size on both ends of the court. The USA Basketball gold medalist exploited mismatches by posting smaller defenders, was a beast on the offensive glass, and showed immense potential on the defensive end. A.J. will be running with Vegas Elite for his final season on the AAU circuit and will undoubtedly have all eyes on him for the remainder of his high school career.

Tyran Stokes, 6’7, SF/PF, Prolific Prep (CA), 2026
Considered by many to be the top player in the class of 2026, Tyran Stokes proved that he could be a remarkably effective player with limited touches at the Grind Session World Championship. The Louisville product was great on the offensive glass keeping plays alive, scoring within the flow of the offense, and facilitating for others. The 18 points, nine rebounds, six assists, and three blocks that Stokes finished with in the championship game don't even begin to show the overall impact that he had on the game.

Ikenna Alozie, 6’2, PG, Dream City Christian, (AZ), 2026
While Dream City Christian came up short to Prolific in the title game, it certainly has nothing to do with the play of Ikenna Alozie. The sophomore dropped 29 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and four steals, leaving everyone on notice that he is one of the better guards in the class of 2026. Ike used his strong frame and length to play unreal on ball defense, was a freakish shot blocker as a guard, and was elite finishing at the rim through contact. As Alozie’s 3-point shot continues to gain consistency, we will see him push his way up to five star status.

Emmanuel Stephen, 7’0, C, Dream City Christian (AZ), 2024
An absolutely massive individual, Emmanuel Stephen was the physical enforcer on both ends of the court for Dream City Christian. He used his ridiculous frame to carve out position deep in the paint, was great using his size to wall up as a rim protector, and dunked virtually everything that he got in the three second area. Heading to Arizona next year, “E-Man” is everything you look for out of a big as a rim protector and lob threat.

Sean Blake, 6’2, PG, Royal Crown Institute (CAN), 2024
A player I hadn't seen before, Sean Blake left it all on the floor and showed that he belonged against Grind Session champion Prolific Prep. The Canadian lead guard got into the paint at will, was excellent converting with creativity at the rack with both hands, and was the overall catalyst for Royal Crown with his 21- point, 5-assist showing versus Prolific Prep. Heading to Vermont next year, Blake is another key addition to the America East champs who took on Duke in the first round of the NCAA tournament.

Winters Grady, 6’6, SF, Prolific Prep (CA), 2025
The best junior prospect in the state of Oregon made local headlines when he was going to initially transfer from Lake Oswego to Tualtin before ultimately ending up at Prolific Prep. The move paid off for Grady, as he walked away with a Grind Session World Championship and firmly established himself as a top-100 player in the process. Winters is a versatile wing with deep 3-point range, provides a presence as a rebounder, and finds a way to make an impact on the game with minimal plays being ran for him. Since Grady emerged at the 2023 Crossroads Elite Invitational, he has quickly become a priority for numerous high major programs throughout the country.

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RELATED: Chipotle Nationals Record Book (2009-2023)

The program at Montverde Academy in Florida has won Chipotle Nationals, the end of-season tournament founded in 2009 when it was known as the ESPN RISE National High School Invitational, a record six times. The program, which will make its record 13th appearance this April, won the event in 2013-15, 2018, 2021-22. Those years do not coincide with the years Montverde Academy captured its six FAB 50 national titles. That’s because in 2020, the program put together its best team, only to be denied a chance for a coronation at the event because the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2020 version of the event never took place.

In 2022, Kevin Boyle’s Eagles won the event for the sixth time, downing Link Academy (Branson, Mo.) in the title game, 60-49. That season, however, MVA finished No. 2 in the FAB 50 behind Duncanville (Texas), which beat them in a head-to-head matchup on a buzzer-beating 3-pointer by Panthers junior guard Aric Demings.

Many fans and scribes felt the 2020 event would be a coronation for that Cade Cunningham-Scottie Barnes led club that defeated its foes, including 12 FAB 50 ranked teams, by 39.0 ppg, one of the largest winning margins among elite high school basketball programs we’ve covered over the years. This year’s unit, which has another terrific starting five led by Mr. Basketball USA candidates Cooper Flagg (Duke) and Derik Queen (Maryland) and three other players who were serious McDonalds’ All-American candidates, hasn’t been that dominant in its winning margin, but some feel Chipotle Nationals (April 4-6 in Brownsburg, Ind.) is a coronation of sorts.

One aspect of its resume this year’s MVA club has over previous title teams, even the 2019-20 unit that will go down as one of the best in high school history, is its strength of schedule. Flagg, Queen, Liam McNeeley (Indiana) and company defeated a whopping 21 teams that have been FAB 50 ranked at some point during the regular season. Obviously that number could grow to 24 in this eight-team bracket. One interesting aspect of the field is Montverde Academy has beaten all seven of its potential opponents at this event, outscoring the other seven participants by nearly 15 ppg (the Eagles have beaten FAB 50 No. 4 Long Island Lutheran of New York and No. 6 Prolific Prep of California twice).

To answer the question, yes, Montverde Academy can be beat. There is just too much talent and familiarity within the teams in this field.

Will it be easy? No. Would it be an upset? Yes, but not a big one it that occurred after its first round game with FAB 50 No. 12 AZ Compass Prep (Chandler, Ariz.), the No. 8 seed. This AZ Compass Prep team is gritty and fearless. Led by junior (2025) guard Jeremiah Fears, it just doesn’t have the elite scoring talent the Eagles have across the board. MVA beat the Dragons, 58-46, in a December meeting in Las Vegas that was fairly competitive.

Whoever wins the No. 4 vs No. 5 seed quarterfinal matchup between Long Island Lutheran and FAB 50 No. 2 Columbus (Miami, Fla.), could potentially give MVA all it can handle in the semifinals. Columbus’ seeding really doesn’t match the quality of wins it has, even though Cameron Boozer and company have losses to unranked Wasatch Academy and No. 17 Don Bosco Prep (Ramsey, N.J.), along with losses to No. 6 seed Link Academy (Branson, Mo.) and to Montverde Academy in a game that wasn’t very competitive (89-61). Columbus does have a win over No. 2 seed and FAB 50 No. 3 Paul VI (Chantilly, Va.) and over Long Island Lutheran (which lost to AZ Compass Prep).

Boozer, last year’s Mr. Basketball USA as a sophomore, his twin brother Cayden Boozer and Jase Richardson, a talented guard headed to Michigan St., played more cohesively over the last month of the season and are motivated to show the Explorers can play with Montverde, but beating Long Island Lutheran a second time won’t be an easy task. V.J. Edgecombe could have a breakout tournament and LuHi has plenty of depth, including standout juniors such as Kiyan Anthony, Nigel James, Jacob Ross and Kayden Mingo. Whoever survives that first round game should have plenty of confidence vs. Montverde Academy in a potential semifinal on April 5.

Last year, we felt Paul VI had a tough draw against Link Academy, the eventual Chipotle Nationals champ and FAB 50 No. 1 team. We felt whoever won that No. 4 vs. No. 5 quarterfinal matchup had a chance to win the whole tournament and Link ran the tables after a 68-65 win over the Panthers. This year, Paul VI is the No. 2 seed and could be even better. The Panthers return most of their cast, including Duke-bound Darren Harris, one of the better talents in this tournament. The individual numbers don’t do Harris justice on this deep and balanced team that could be the one that gives Montverde Academy all it can handle in the championship game.

Paul VI opens up with No. 7 seed IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.), the lowest ranked team in the field (No. 14) which already has a loss to the Panthers. With junior guard Darius Acuff Jr., the Ascenders will always have a chance because of his penchant for scoring and play-making. In fact, he led the EYBL Scholastic League (which includes five Chipotle Nationals participants) in scoring at 21.3 ppg. The key to the No. 2 vs. No. 7 seed game will be if IMG Academy’s front court players, such as Donnie Freeman, can slow down Paul VI on the boards and keep the Panthers from second shot opportunities.

Montverde Academy has played in the most overall tournament games by far (26-6 record in 12 appearances), but No. 6 seed Link Academy actually has the best winning percentage in the event’s history (5-1) after advancing to the title game in 2022 in its first year of eligibility and winning it all last year. Coach Billy Armstrong will have his team ready in its matchup with No. 3 seed Prolific Prep (Napa, Calif.), a dangerous club that could win it all if it’s healthy and in sync. Link Academy has a legitimate Mr. Basketball USA candidate in Tre Johnson that could help the Lions pull off a minor upset against a team it has already lost to, 77-76, in the first game of the season super sophomore Tyran Stokes played for The Crew after missing the team's first nine games. During the middle portion of its schedule (nearly two months), McDonald’s All-American Derrion Reid was out with injury, but he’s an indispensable piece if Prolific Prep is to defeat Link Academy, potentially Paul VI and possibly meet Montverde Academy in the finals.

Nobody has played Montverde Academy tougher than Prolific Prep. Playing the Eagles tough, however, and beating this year’s team, are two different things. Montverde Academy’s unit knows what’s at stake in trying to live up to the lofty standards that previous MVA units set. The field, however, is as talented as it’s ever been and these teams know each other inside and out. Whoever emerges will be a worthy champion and if that is one of the top four seeds, it willl likely finish at No. 1 in the final FAB 50 on April 8.

Chipotle Nationals April 4 Lineup

No. 1 Montverde Academy (1) vs. No. 12 AZ Compass Prep (8), 8 pm ET
No. 4 Long Island Lutheran (4) vs. No. 2 Columbus (5), 4 pm ET
No. 6 Prolific Prep (3) vs. No. 11 Link Academy (6), 6 pm ET
No. 3 Paul VI (2) vs. No. No. 14 IMG Academy (7), 2 pm ET

Note: Seeds listed in parenthesis. All quarterfinal games televised on ESPNU. The semifinals on April 5 will be televised on ESPN2, as will the title game on April 6 (12 pm ET).

Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores

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The section finals offered no shortage of excitement as well, though. With all three games that we took in throughout the week being sold out, the atmosphere was like no other. Wayzata (Plymouth, Minn.) beat Hopkins (Minnetonka, Minn.) in the section 6AAAA final to take a 2-1 victory in their 2023-24 trilogy to move up to No. 36 in the latest FAB 50 National Rankings, Orono beat Benilde St. Margaret’s in double OT in the section 6AAA final in a game that had three separate buzzer beaters that broke the internet, and private power Breck School cruising to the section 5AA title over Minneapolis North.

Jackson McAndrew, 6’9, PF, Wayzata HS (MN), 2024
The state’s top senior certainly lived up to his reputation, pouring in 40 points in a 105-76 win over rival Hopkins to advance to the state tournament. The versatile forward showed his effortless 3-point range, scored out of quick flashes in the post, and blew by defenders trying to run him off the 3-point line. McAndrew is the highest ranked recruit ever to head to Creighton, where he should be able to make an immediate impact with his deep range and offensive versatility as a forward. Jackson was also recently selected to play in the prestigious Iverson Classic in May.

Nolan Groves, 6’5, PG/SG, Orono HS (MN), 2025
There hasn’t been a junior in the state of Minnesota who has helped themselves more in the high school season than 6-foot-5 combo guard Nolan Groves of Orono. The J-Sizzle guard continued to add to this sentiment in the section finals. He dropped 43 points, 18 rebounds, and 11 assists in a double OT victory while making a half court shot at the buzzer that was No. 1 on ESPN's SportsCenter Top 10 to send Orono to States. Groves showed his effortless 3-point range, underrated ability to drop pocket passes, and ability to utilize his size against smaller guards in his legendary performance in what has been one of the better games in recent Minnesota playoff history. Groves has already visited St. Thomas, but has also heard from high major programs such as Clemson, Iowa, and Northwestern.

Daniel Freitag, 6’2, PG, Breck HS (MN), 2024
The epitome of a power point guard, Daniel Freitag has been an absolute game changer on both ends during his senior season. Doubling as the top wide receiver in the state of Minnesota, Freitag opted to focus on hoops at the next level and it has shown with his growth as a lead guard. Daniel used his toughness/athleticism to lock down all three perimeter spots, made outstanding passes with both hands, and ripped the rim off at every time he attacked the rack. The Wisconsin signee dropped an easy 27 points en route to a state tournament berth for Breck.

Brady Wooley, 6’9, PF, Orono HS (MN), 2025
One of the most intriguing players in Minnesota’s junior class, Brady Wooley is everything that you look for in a new age forward and showed that against BSM with 17 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists. The agile big man with great hands is versatile enough to contain defensively on the perimeter, can playmake for others from the post position, and is skilled enough to punish you facing the basket. Wooley holds an offer from Ivy League power Yale and has already visited the likes of Iowa State and Minnesota.

Jaleel Donley, 6’2, PG, Benilde St. Margaret’s (MN), 2025
While it was a disappointing end to the season, the fastest guard in the state of Minnesota ended his junior campaign in about as impressive of fashion as one could imagine. The lefty junior playmaker has shown consistent improvement on his 3-point shot (including three to send game to first overtime), is outstanding passing the rock with both hands, and is a truly electric finisher once he gets into the paint. Donley is still a bit under the radar nationally, but shouldn’t be for much longer once he hits the EYBL with Howard Pulley.

Marcus Marshall Jr., 5’11, PG, Minneapolis North HS (MN), 2027
Many freshmen emerge throughout their freshman campaigns, and Marcus Marshall Jr. was certainly one of those dudes who kept growing, both in terms of stature and in terms of his game. He is a confident 3-point shooter with super deep range, owns super sneaky athleticism, and will make you pay if you try to run him off the three point line. Marcus is coached by former NBA sparkplug scorer Ricky Davis and wrapped up his freshman campaign with 31-point and 17-point games in the playoffs, finishing with a 14.9 PPG average on the year.

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Geno Auriemma and the UConn Huskies Women's basketball team defeat Georgetown 78-42 to earn their fourth straight Big East Tournament title. Riddled with injuries, the Huskies are ready for a NCAA Championship run.

It's not about the setback, it's about the comeback. This may be the year that the Connecticut Huskies women's basketball team shocks the world.

Out of the seven players available for the Big-East championship title, four of them are freshman.

Despite coach Geno Auriemma's playful comment that his team might be a bit "delusional," every player on the team has faith in their abilities, even amidst the challenges they've faced this year. After watching Saint Peter's make headlines in 2022, it's hard to count any team out, especially Connecticut.

The UConn Huskies are largely considered one of the most prolific programs in all of NCAA women's basketball, leading the way with 11 national championships. Led under coac h Auriemma, UConn hasn't won a title since 2016, and are two years removed from the championship finals loss against South Carolina. We can never forget how Paige Bueckers single handedly carried her team to the finals.

PAIGE BUECKERS scored 15 of her 27 PTS in the 2 overtimes to lead UConn to their 14th straight Final Four!

1st Half: 4 PTS (2/6 FG)
2nd Half: 23 PTS (8/9 FG)

VIDEO: @swishcultures_ pic.twitter.com/QkiqXkiKod

— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) March 29, 2022

While Auriemma is among the most winningest coaches in Division 1 basketball, UConn's story is defined by their resilience and determination to overcome several injuries not only this year, but seasons past.

Prior to the start of the season, UConn was ranked no. 2 in the nation, by the Associated Press. With high hopes and expectations, the injuries piled up, reflecting a recurring unfortunate trend. Specifically the last few seasons, Auriemma and the Huskies have faced unfortunate circumstances beyond their control.

UConn is the definition of resiliency

This group has been all bout resiliency. After a turbulent 4-3 start, UConn suffered losses to NC State, UCLA, and Texas all within the first two weeks. They went on to win their next 25 of 27 matchups, and finished with nine straight victories, including the Big East Championship game. Perhaps, the motto for this year should be "impossible is nothing," by Nike.

Speaking of the Big East, more than 7,000 fans crowded Mohegan Sun Arena to watch Connecticut play against Georgetown for their 22nd Conference championship appearance. With a 25-9 season record, the Huskies faced a Georgetown team that made their first ever appearance in a Big East Conference championship game. Defeating the Bulldogs 78-42, the story mainly revolves around UConn's defensive prowess and discipline.

In all of Division 1 basketball, the Connecticut Huskies rank no 23 in the nation, tied with South Carolina in opponent points allowed per game (56.3).

Limiting Georgetown to just seven fourth quarter points, the Bulldogs finished shooting 11 percent from deep, and 32 percent from the floor. Not only did Connecticut play stellar defense along the perimeter, they crushed them on the boards and inside the paint. Forcing 17 turnovers, the Huskies starters combined for 12 total steals. In the backcourt, Buecker's and KK Arnold combined for seven alone.

Auriemma calls this team "remarkable"

For coach Auriemma, he's been at this a long time, having led the Huskies to 34 years of NCAA tournaments. Fighting back emotions at the end of the matchup, he admitted it's not easy winning in the month of March. While teams such as South Carolina and LSU remain the most dominant and spoke about, UConn's comeback year has been a bit under shadowed by all the excitement across women's hoops.

Doesn't matter who was available and who wasn't.

This was a full-team win pic.twitter.com/Uc4GMz14n2

— UConn Women’s Basketball (@UConnWBB) March 12, 2024

In just a few days, the Huskies had their share of challenges yet again. Despite Aliyah Edward's injury, they had a strong 86-53 win against Providence. Even without Edwards, they managed to defeat Marquette, holding them to just 29 points.

"Obviously, these have been three pretty interesting days," coach Auriemma said about the Big East Tournament. "The energy that it took to finish this off was really pretty remarkable. Couldn't be prouder of them." (UConn Huskies PR).

The Huskies were dealt several injuries this year

The focus has heavily been on Buecker's determination in returning to the hardwood after succumbing to several injuries over the years. With a strong connection to her faith, she returned to the court just 19 games following a meniscus tear, but suffered an ACL tear last season. Bueckers, who's the heart and soul of the Huskies, remained sidelined for the entire 2022-2023 season.

She had her healthiest season yet, ending her third year with a career-high 21.3 points and 1.4 blocks. Buecker excelled on both ends, averaging 4.8 rebounds, 2.1 steals, and 2.7 assists. Through a career-high 34 games, she shot an impressive 53.8% from the field and 42.4% from deep. Buecker's stellar two-way performance continued in the Big-East championship game, where she led with 27 points and five blocks.

Initially, freshman Jana El Alfy was sidelined for the entire 2023-2024 season after an Achilles injury. With Fudd already out, junior Caroline Ducharme played only four games before injury ended her season. Then, in January, guard Aubrey Griffin tore her ACL.

Despite dropping to rank no. 17, UConn rebounded and is now ranked no. 10 heading into the NCAA National Tournament.

How many Championships is she winning at UCONN? pic.twitter.com/qTP0gIW2oL

— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) December 22, 2021

The steady ready freshman core has stepped up for UConn

Auriemma leaned on senior Edwards and Bueckers, but the focus shifted to freshmen Ashlynn Shade, KK Arnold, and Ice Brady stepping up in the biggest of moments. Despite limited bench depth, UConn's dependable group has been key. With just healthy seven players, the Huskies get yet another shot of a title. And this time, several freshman have the opportunity to shine on the brightest stage, next to Edwards, Bueckers, and Nika Muhl. Let's not forget freshman Qadence Samuels, who put up 9 points and 5 rebounds for the Huskies.

Brady, a California native, stepped up remarkably over the tournament. Only averaging 4.6 points on the year, the forward 23 points combined in the tournament matchups against Georgetown and Marquette. And on a back-to-back, Brady led UConn with 40 minutes played. A part of the stay ready group, she was a force on both sides of the ball, with Edwards unable to suit up.

And for the Auriemma and the Huskies, they just have to remain confident through all of the ups and downs.

The Huskies remain confident regardless what's thrown their way

"Nothing good is going to happen unless you're confident in yourself that you can make it happen, " coach Auriemma told SNY. "It would have been easy to feel sorry for yourself, why us again? Why are we dealing with this again? The resilience is remarkable. They inspire me, a lot of times, to be better for them because of how positive they are."

While Selection Sunday will take place this weekend, the Connecticut Huskies will gear up for the first-round of the NCAA Tournament, which will begin on Mar. 22. With Edwards and Muhl expected to declare for the 2024 WNBA Draft, Bueckers announced her return to UConn for a final and last season. Although Edwards has missed the last two games, she'll return, this time, wearing the mask yet once again.

Stay tuned for more?NCAA and WNBA?related?articles.

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets.?She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.

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Two-time Pac-12 Player of the year, Cameron Brink officially declared for the WNBA Draft on Tuesday afternoon.

Cameron Brink's left her legacy at Stanford University ,and she is set to make her mark in professional women's basketball.

Stanford University star Brink has officially declared for the WNBA Draft. While she was given a year of extra eligibility due to the pandemic in 2020, Brink decided it's time to move into the next exciting phase in her life. On Tuesday afternoon, the center shared a heartfelt message on X, formerly known as Twitter.

pic.twitter.com/0OI09aBIgd

— Cam (@cameronbrink22) March 12, 2024

Stating the Stanford Cardinal have "unfinished business," the New Jersey native expressed gratitude to all those who have played a part in her journey in becoming one of the nation's emerging stars.

"To my family and especially my parents-who would've thought that basketball would bring me the wonder it has. I attribute every ounce of success to your guidance and unconditional love" (via X )

Brink, who leads NCAA Division 1 basketball in blocks, is regarded as one of the premier two-way centers in the sport. Standing at 6'4", there's several aspects of her game to rave about. From baseline jumpers, to inside post play, and outside three-point shooting, Brink finished the season with 19 double-doubles, in 31 games, which ranks no. 8 in all of women's basketball.

Brink's is a defensive juggernaut

RECORD BREAKING GAME FOR BRINK

Cameron Brink record her first triple-double with 16 points, 11 rebounds, & a single-game record 10 blocks!@StanfordWBB | #Pac12WBB pic.twitter.com/BP9odP6El8

— Pac-12 Network (@Pac12Network) January 29, 2023

Her blocks are ionic, which she'll take with her to the WNBA. In fact, she put up a season high eight blocks against Pac-12 rival USC back on Feb. 2. Yes, that's correct, eight blocks.

She surely didn't disappoint in her fourth and final season with the Cardinal. Through 31 games, she boasted an incredible stat line of 17.8 points, 12 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 3.5 blocks per game. Shooting 51.2 percent from the floor in her senior year, Brink improved drastically from the free-throw line, increasing her percentage over 20 points from the 2021-2022 season.

Although she may not be the highest-scoring player, Brink has versatility, and that's important for a center, especially with the ability to stretch the floor. Able to excel with inside-outside basketball, she's not only a force on the glass, but she's developed exceptional passing skills, especially when doubled teamed. She's had some enormous games over her career, however, we can't forget career-high 24 rebounds against Oregon State on Feb 29. In the matchup, Brink also finished with team high 25 points.

Brink is Stanford's all-time leading shot blocker

Led by legendary head coach Tara VanDerveer, filling the shoes of Stanford University's elite athletes is no small challenge. Brink stands among Stanford greats like Candice, Wiggins, Nneka Ogwumike, and Jennifer Azzi, to name just a few. After all, she plays for one of the most winningest programs in all of women's college basketball. In the history of the program, Brink is all-time leader in blocks (402), block percentage (13.4 %), blocks per game (3.1), defensive rebound percentage (29.2 %), total rebound percentage (22%), box out plus/minus (19.7), among several other statistical categories.

It's not everyday you get to lace up for the all-time winningest coach in NCAA history.

Related article: click here

A four-year player for the Cardinal, Brink was recruited out of Mountainside, located in Oregon. An integral part of the team, the center led Stanford to their first NCAA title in 2021, signaling the end of a 29 year drought.

Earning tons of accolades during her illustrious career, Brink is a 3x Pac-12 All-Defensive Team, 2x Pac-12 Player of the Year, and was named Defensive Player of the Year in 2023. Among other individual honors, she's a 3x olympic gold medalist, which she was included in the FIBA under 19, FIBA under 17 World Cup, and 3x3 World Cup.

Announced today, Brink headlines ESPNs All-American team, next to Caitlin Clark (Iowa), Paige Bueckers(UConn), JuJu Watkins (USC), and Hannah Hidalgo (Notre Dame).

Brink is expected to be a top selection in the 2024 WNBA Draft

Cameron Brink will enter the 2024 WNBA draft! She announced via social media pic.twitter.com/oQIzNAC9G2

— Ballislife Womens Basketball (@ballislifewbb_) March 12, 2024

The former McDonald's All-American is expected to be a top selection in the 2024 WNBA Draf. With Caitlin Clark likely to be chosen as the first pick, Brink's stock is increasing, especially with Paige Bueckers returning to UConn.

Predicted to be picked second overall by the Los Angeles Sparks, she would be an excellent fit . This is especially given Nneka Ogwumikes stunning move to the Seattle Storm in free agency. By improving her three-point shot, she could become the next Nikola Jokic or Victor Wembanyama of the WNBA.

Should she drop to the third overall pick in the draft, there's a chance she could be chosen by the Phoenix Mercury. While nothing is set, I can't see Brink falling lower than the third pick.

Despite Brink and the Cardinal loss in the Pac-12 championship to USC with a final score of 74-61, the Stanford Center is determined to finish the season strong and compete for an NCAA National title.

Cameron Brink is determined to help bring a second title to Stanford during her career

"I am excited to announce I will be declaring for the 2024 WNBA Draft," said Brink in her post on X. "Although I am excited for that next chapter, we still have unfinished business and so much to accomplish in my final season at Stanford."

Aside from her improvement in free-throws, it's been incredible to watch the transformation following her Freshman season. A force on both ends of the floor, she's incredibly valuable to Stanford. 28-5 on the season, Brink missed only two games, but was great missed in Stanford's 68-61 loss against Oregon State.

Bidding her final goodbyes to Palo Alto, Brink was eligible to declare for the 2023 WNBA Draft, yet decided to return for one last dance. One of the most prolific shot blockers in women's basketball, she will undoubtedly be missed by so many at Stanford.

Stay tuned for more NCAA and WNBA related articles.

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.

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No. 5 USC Trojans defeat No.2 Stanford Cardinal 74-61, earning their second and final Pac-12 championship.

What a fitting farewell to the Pac-12 Championship.

Under head coach Lindsay Gottlieb, the USC Trojans secured the Pac-12 Championship, marking their first conference victory in ten years. Despite Stanford being the favored team, USC took an early lead and maintained their momentum throughout. Demonstrating their strongest win percentage since the 1993-1994 season, the Trojans have consistently impressed with their physical prowess throughout the season. It's been a real honor to watch them this season.

TROJANS WIN!!!!! pic.twitter.com/nRyrILGTJZ

— USC Women's Basketball (@USCWBB) March 10, 2024

It all began with a three-pointer sunk by Senior guard McKenzie Forbes. As a first-year transfer from Harvard University, and formerly Cal, Forbes scored a game-high 26 points, making 11 out of 21 field goals and hitting 4 out of 8 three-point attempts. Additionally, she grabbed five rebounds, two of which were on the offensive end, and contributed two assists along with three steals.

McKenzie Forbes was an unstoppable force

On Dec. 21, the senior scored a career-high 36 points against Long Beach State, and came up immense in the most unforgettable moment, the Pac-12 championship.

Clearly emotional after the game, Forbes was truly unstoppable all over both ends of the court. Steals and pull up threes, the senior was locked in. Second on the roster in scoring with 13.1 points per game, Forbes was the glue that secured USC their final ever Pac-12 championship. And with her stellar game play, the California native was named the conference MVP.

Surrounded by reporters, Forbes gave an tearful interview with on the court. In her post game speech, the senior shed tears, yet was visibly passionate about her team's victory.

Speaking of rebounds, acting as a strong force on the glass was the difference maker for the USC. By out rebounding Stanford 48-28, there were a plethora of second chance opportunities, along with 21 points off turnovers. There's outplaying a team on the glass, and then there's completely dominating a team on the rebounds. In USC's case, it was a display of absolute masterclass on the rebounds.

JuJu Watkins' first 7 games of her college career (all wins).

32 PTS, 6 REB, 5 AST
18 PTS, 7 REB, 2 BLK
35 PTS, 9 REB, 6 STL, 6 3PT
15 PTS, 7 REB, 2 BLK
31 PTS, 12 REB
30 PTS, 5 STL, 4 AST
30 PTS, 8 REB, 5 AST @USCWBB | @ballislifewbb_ pic.twitter.com/HC4UJ6NiOu

— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) December 4, 2023

What an incredible freshman season it's been for Watkins. The next generational talent, she led the Trojans with 27 points per game, and broke several records in her first season. In fact, the Sierra Canyon product is now the most scoring freshman in NCAA women's basketball history. While Caitlin Clark finished with 799 points following her freshman year, Watkins is at 801.

An integral part of the Trojans success this season, Watkins poured in 33 points, 10 rebounds, two blocks, and two steals in the Pac-12 semifinal against no. 7 UCLA. Making history all season long, the guard broke Cheryl Miller's record for the most 30-point games in a season for the USC Trojans.

USC defeated Stanford twice this year

JUJU WATKINS
Broke the USC record for points in a game as a freshman!

51 Points
14/26 Shooting
6/11 Threes
17/19 Free Throws
11 Rebounds
4 Steals

In an upset win over No.4 Stanford pic.twitter.com/c9PtftXwQV

— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) February 3, 2024

Despite being ranked No. 1 in the Pac-12 this season, the Cardinal suffered only five losses, one of which was against USC on Feb. 2, with a final score of 67-58. In a remarkable display, JuJu Watkins made history by becoming the first Division 1 freshman to score 50 points in a game since Elena Delle Donne in 2010. With an impressive 51 points, she propelled the Trojans to their first victory at Maples Pavilion, the Cardinal's home court, in 24 years.

While USC has long demonstrated their ability to compete with Stanford and head coach Tara VanDerveer, it's Stanford that has largely dominated the Pac-12, clinching five conference titles since 2015. Despite USC's recent championship win, it marks a significant shift in the landscape of one of women's basketball's most competitive conferences. With VanDerveer's influence shaping the trajectory of women's hoops, this victory undoubtedly evokes a range of emotions. Two notable sentiments include disappointment and sadness.

With 12 teams part of the Pac-12, USC will move to the Big Ten, along with UCLA next season. Meanwhile, while Arizona, Utah, among others, will join the Big 12. Stanford, along with Cal, will join the ACC. The irony in this all? The Pac-12 is one of the strongest conferences in women's basketball history, including six ranked teams. Cameron Brink, JuJu Watkins, Alissa Pili, the list goes on. The amount of talent in the Pac-12 is enormous, and it will indefinitely be missed.

In a bittersweet day, the USC Trojans will move onto the NCAA tournament, where they will receive a chance to compete for a National Championship title.

Related article: Click here

Stay tuned for more NCAA and WNBA related articles. Click here

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.

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Held in Phoenix at The Phhacility, the EIBC Finals brought no shortage of talent, media, and college coaches to the Cactus State. Ultimately, Red Rock Academy (Las Vegas) was crowned the inaugural EIBC Champions, finishing the 2023-24 campaign with a 24-2 record, including a 14-0 record in EIBC play that saw them matched up against teams with D1 talent each outing.

Throughout the 16 teams, talent was abundant, but here are six players who separated themselves from the pack with their play at the EIBC Finals:

Jevon Yapi, 6’1, PG, Red Rock Academy (NV), 2025
Simply put, Jevon Yapi is a winner. After already having won a Nevada state title with Durango High School, he was the catalyst for Red Rock Academy’s undefeated title run in the inaugural EIBC season. The Vegas Elite guard is a serious shooter with deep range, has legit court savvy, and showed the ability to be both a playmaker as well as a scorer. Not coincidentally, Yapi received a D1 offer from High Point shortly after his EIBC campaign and will be a lead guard to watch this spring in the EYBL.

Arafan Diane, 7’0, C, Dynastie Prep (CAN), 2026
As far as helping themselves nationally, there wasn’t anyone who placed themselves more on the map nationally in the EIBC than Arafan Diane. The native of Guinea is a bit of an old school big man, but that doesn’t change the sheer dominance that he has on the game. He is unbelievable finishing through contact with both hands, showed great touch on his jumper out to mid-range, and was a game changing defender with his ability to wall up. Diane will be running with Iowa United on the Adidas circuit and has recently been ranked in the top-50 of the national 2026 rankings by various scouting services.

Jovan Milicevic, 6’9, PF/C, Canyon International Academy (AZ), 2024
Perhaps the most talented offensive player in the EIBC, Jovan Milicevic showed the full bag for CIA in the EIBC Finals. The Canadian big man is a lights out shooter who creates separation with his crafty play, awkward change of pace, and ability to use his frame to dislodge defenders once making contact. Jovan will step in as the best offensive threat for Richard Pitino in New Mexico’s 2024 recruiting class.

Josiah Sanders, 6’4, PG/SG, Colorado Prep (CO), 2025
A name that has been well known in Colorado for a while now, Josiah Sanders put himself on the national radar with his play this past season in the EIBC. The 6-foot-4 combo guard was virtually unstoppable with his change of speed and ability to finish through contact, culminating with his 37 point, 9 rebound, 7 assist showing against ABC Prep (NM). Sanders has picked up offers from Arizona State, Seattle, and San Diego with his play over the past few weeks in the EIBC and is carrying no shortage of momentum into the AAU season.

Katrelle “KT” Harmon, 6’5, SG, BFL Prep (WA), 2026
The best player in the state of Washington put on a show as a sophomore for BFL Prep, and the experience that he gained playing varsity from his middle school days was evident in the EIBC. Katrelle was much more confident as a facilitator, showing the ability to impact the game as a playmaker, while also maintaining his presence as a deadly scoring threat. Harmon finished up the year for BFL Prep with ridiculous averages of 27.9 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 6.9 assists while playing both backcourt spots.

Diggy Griffin, 6’5, SG/SF, Rosemary Anderson (OR), 2025
It was my first time seeing Diggy Griffin, and I walked away undoubtedly knowing that he has a home at the D1 level. The lanky wing had a downright automatic pullup off the bounce, possessed no shortage of confidence as a scorer, and brought positional versatility on the defensive end.

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LeBron James makes history as the first NBA player to score 40,000 career points, achieving the milestone during a critical game against the Denver Nuggets.

King James has done it all and now he's joined a club all by himself.

LeBron James is the first & maybe last player to ever join the 40K CLUB

Nick Wright: "For Giannis, he would have to average 30 PTS, playing 75 GMS a year for the next 11 years. For Luka: 35 PTS, 75 GMS, 12 years. For a new player: 35 PTS, 75 GMS, 15 and a half seasons." pic.twitter.com/DRpGZgKblD

— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) March 3, 2024

LeBron James has now entered an exclusive group, surpassing 40,000 career points. The reigning king of basketball, James becomes the first to achieve this milestone, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's 38,387 points. Among a roster of elite basketball players, LeBron sits at the pinnacle, unmatched. It's truly the most astonishing record i've seen throughout my lifetime in sports. And that doesn't include the 8,023 points he's scored in the playoffs.

After his bucket, Laker nation celebrated LeBron and the moment in a time out. Grateful for the fans, the former Cavalier recognized how special it is.

"Being the first player to do something is pretty cool in this league", said James (NBA).

What an incredible feat, reaching 40,017 points. Since he was just 18 years old, LeBron has played in 1,475 career games, totaling 55,988 minutes, with 10,847 assists, and 11,046 rebounds. Even after playing over 55,000 minutes, the Lakers star continues to perform at a level reminiscent of his mid-twenties.

Although 40,000 is a heck of a lot of points, LeBron said "I was that on no kid. He emphasized the weight of expectations he faced at just 18 years old, acknowledging the pressure and scrutiny from those who hoped for his failure.

Just a few days after the big accomplishment, James was named Western Conference player of the week. Through week 19, James averaged 30.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 8.7 assists on 50 percent three-point shooting.

James has never missed an entire season in his career

While LeBron's achievement is undoubtedly remarkable, his durability stands out as his greatest attribute. Throughout his career, he has consistently been able to maintain a high level of performance despite the wear and tear of the game. LeBron managed to play in 74 games during 13 out of his first 15 NBA seasons. Remarkably, he has never missed an entire season due to injury, showcasing his remarkable resilience and commitment to the game.

Not many athletes can claim such durability. After setting the record with his 20th All-Star appearance, LeBron's game count began to decline only after he joined the Lakers. Nonetheless, this season, he has appeared in 54 games, averaging an impressive 35.1 minutes per game. The remarkable physical condition and high level of basketball he continues to demonstrate are truly extraordinary.

James, 39, is in his 21st NBA season. The oldest active player in the NBA, LeBron was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers no. 1 overall in the 2003 draft. Throughout his career, he's played for the Cavaliers, Miami Heat, now the Los Angeles Lakers. The all-time leader in NBA points scored, the King has several personal and team accolades.

LeBron, a four-time NBA champion, four-time Finals MVP, four-time MVP, olympic gold medalist, and a 20-time All-Star, has lived up to his reputation as a generational talent since his 2003 debut.

As I forecasted on episode six of the Cook it and Book it Podcast, LeBron James reached his 40,000th point in classic LeBron style. With just over 10 minutes remaining in the second quarter, the King isolated Michael Porter Jr., executing a drive and spin move for a layup. Despite his recent success from beyond the arc, shooting at an impressive 51.1% over the past ten games, LeBron's athleticism and drives to the basket have always been his trademark.

LeBron James daughter was present for the Lakers "girl dad" night

FIRST-EVER.

40K Points for the Scoring King https://t.co/wKcT0F54Op pic.twitter.com/GKwU3xwIln

— NBA (@NBA) March 3, 2024

As LeBron returned to play defense, the crowd erupted in excitement, with his wife Savannah, mother Gloria, and daughter Zhuri all in attendance. Being an Akron native, LeBron expressed how meaningful it was to have his daughter there, emphasizing his pride in being a "girl dad."

"It's definitely special," said LeBron post game. "When I looked up there in the stands and seen her sitting up there and when the 40,000-point mark hit, definitely looked up there at my wife, looked at my daughter, my mom, and my daughter was just clapping and pumping her arms up in the air so that was a super cool moment."(NBA YouTube).

And on the Lakers first official girl dad night, LeBron was able to share a moment with his daughter immediately after he surpasses 40,000 points. With the special occasion, LeBron was able to share the moment up close and personal with his loved ones.

"Blew her a kiss, she blew one back to me," said James. "That's super cool for sure. Definitely a girl dad, and happy she's a part of the family. She runs everything, so what Z says goes." (NBA YouTube)

While it was a momentous occasion for LeBron James, it was also bittersweet as the Lakers suffered a defeat to the Nuggets, losing 124-114 on their home court. Despite LeBron's milestone, the Lakers' overall record stands at 33-29, placing them at the 10th position in the Western Conference. Losing a game after such a significant achievement is undoubtedly disappointing, regardless of the opponent.

And to make it worse, the Lakers were swept 4-0 by the Nuggets in last year's western conference finals. With the loss on Saturday, James led with a team high 26 points, 3 steals, 9 assists, and four rebounds. He finished the night on 12-20 from the floor. After maintaining a first half lead, the Nuggets were simply too much for the Lakers, outscoring them 67-48 in the second half. Not only did Denver dominate on the boards, but they had 64 points in the paint.

LeBron James is the first player in NBA history to score 40,000 regular season points

With this achievement, LeBron James has now exceeded some of the greatest players in basketball history, such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, and Michael Jordan. In a class by himself, James gave some insight how he achieved 40k points, and whether he can see any current athlete surpassing him.

LeBron credits durability and longevity to hitting this major milestone

From the way LeBron James talks about it, he attributes his longevity and durability to his ability to play at such a high level for so long.

"Obviously you have to play the game quite a while and have some good luck as far injuries and things of that nature," James told the media. "You have to take care of your body, you have to be present on the floor. Then you have to be productive as well. Obviously we have a lot of great guys in our league that can score the ball. If they were able to stay healthy and they were to play a long time, then they can eclipse it." (NBA)

Just last February, James passed Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA all-time scoring leader in a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

While LeBron James continues to be the face of the NBA, there has been considerable speculation about who will assume that role once he retires. Names like Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic, and Jayson Tatum have emerged as potential successors to carry the torch for the league.

At the end of the day, LeBron was very fortunate for good influences despite hardships growing up. While James had a "great head on his shoulders," he thanked his mother and little league coaches for raising him the right way. He also adds his friends accountability and support from his now wife, Savannah kept him on the straight and narrow.

Stay tuned for more related NBA articles and podcasts.?Click here

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets.?She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.

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In the final game against Ohio State, Clark achieved a remarkable feat, surpassing Pete Maravich for the all-time scoring record with an outstanding performance in the first half.

It's official. Caitlin Clark passed "pistol" Pete Maravich and is the NCAA men's and women's all-time leading scorer. In a record-breaking season, Clark is truly one of one. She came into the game 18 points shy, and now holds the record with 3,685 points.

And with chaos surrounding Iowa City, Clark started her day at 6:22 a.m., and headed to shoot around. With ESPN College Game Day present for the second consecutive year, Clark and the Hawkeyes did their best to go about their ordinary routines.

And she stands alone. The Iowa native matched then surpassed the record with two free-throw attempts subsequent to Ohio State's technical foul. Although falling short of breaking the standard three-point shot record, Clark etched her name in history at the free-throw line. With all attention fixed on number 22, she flawlessly sank the free-throws with .3 seconds left in the first half, up 46-39.

Man or Woman she stands alone! Caitlin Clark is your all time leading scorer passing Pete Maravich. Congratulations Caitlin! pic.twitter.com/7V7vTEj2tB

— Ballislife Womens Basketball (@ballislifewbb_) March 3, 2024

Clark appeared indifferent how she broke the record, even if it was a logo three. With Ohio State receiving a technical foul, she was tasked with shooting two free throws without any opponents present at the line. It seemed as though she was destined to achieve the record all on her own, with only herself at the line.

"Honestly, like I didn't really care," said Clark about making history from the free-throw line. "It was cool to hear everybody just start screaming. I thought that gave us a lot of momentum going into halftime." (Fox Sports YouTube).

While free-throws may seem fairly easy, it's sure a lot of pressure when the entire arena has eyes on you.

"I'm just glad to make a free throw, " the NCAA all-time scoring leader told the media. "That's like the hardest thing to do in basketball is make free throws with nobody at the free throw line." (Fox Sports YouTube).

In their last matchup, Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes dropped a heartbreaking loss to Ohio State in overtime. In the loss, Clark finished with 45 points,2 steals, 1 block, 7 assists, and 3 rebounds. This time around, Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes secured the 93-83 victory over the Ohio State Buckeyes.

RELATED: Iowa vs. Ohio State game preview.

Like a Cinderella story, Clark and the Iowa Buckeyes delivered a captivating performance before almost 15,000 fans at the Carver-Hawkeye Arena. In the culmination of the regular season, Iowa clinched victory on none other than Senior Day. When asked about the record-breaking day, Clark said it will eventually hit her. Passing Pete Maravich and Kelsey Plum is quite the accomplishment. However, there are several successful ballers that have come before Clark's time.

"I don't think many people understand how many amazing players have come before me and been able to score the ball and do it at such a high rate. Just to be in the same realm of all these players who have been so successful--whether it's Pete, or whether it's Kelsey Plum or Lynette Woodard." (Fox Sports YouTube).

It's 9:30 a.m., but the stars are out in Iowa City. @MooreMaya x @CaitlinClark22 #Hawkeyes pic.twitter.com/0tc7xzLeTm

— Iowa Women's Basketball (@IowaWBB) March 3, 2024

In the eagerly awaited matchup, a host of notable figures graced the event, among them UConn and WNBA icon Maya Moore. While Clark admired Moore during her upbringing, it was a delightful surprise for Clark when Moore made an appearance before the big game. Indeed, the Hawkeye star was "fangirling" intensely over Moore. Also in attendance was Jake from State Farm, Travis Scott, and basketball legend Lynette Woodard.

"For her [Maya Moore] to be here, surprise me was pretty special," Clark told the media post-game. "I felt like I was that young girl again, it's crazy how life can come full circle. She's just such a great role model, great person, not only a great basketball player." (Fox Sports YouTube).

Clark wrapped up the last regular season game of her career with an impressive stat line of 35 points, 3 steals, 9 assists, and 6 rebounds. Despite her reputation for sharpshooting, the guard struggled with her accuracy overall. Starting with three missed shots, Clark concluded shooting 10-26 (37%) from the field and 6-17 (35.2%) from beyond the arc.

Facing off against Ohio State's formidable defense, Clark found it challenging to penetrate the paint. However, she adjusted her strategy and began driving to the basket, resulting in nine free-throw attempts. While many focus on her scoring abilities, she has incredible court vision, and her facilitaitng was elite. With several high velocity outlet passes, Clark often found Hannah Stuelke, who finished with 23 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 assists, on 9-12 field goal shooting.

With Ohio State's intense focus on Clark, it created openings for her teammates to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Clark's exceptional ability to distribute the ball to her teammates with precision was put on full display. Despite being known for her scoring prowess, she handled Ohio State's double teams and full-court press, showcasing her versatility on the court in distributing the rock.

Clark has passed Pistol Pete

Pearl Moore: 4,061 (1979)
Caitlin Clark: 3,668 & counting (2024)
Pete Maravich: 3,667 (1970)
Antoine Davis: 3,664 (2023)
Lynette Woodard: 3,649 (1981)
Kelsey Plum: 3,527 (2017) pic.twitter.com/aywonXTheK

— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) March 3, 2024

Despite Iowa commanding a 17-point lead, the Buckeyes managed to narrow the deficit to just four points. However, unlike the previous game, Iowa ensured they maintained their lead and stayed focused. Even after senior guard Molly Davis suffered a leg injury, the team persevered. Davis's injury was severe enough that she had to be carried off the court and later returned in a wheelchair, remaining court side for the remainder of the game.

The pivotal change came when Iowa, under the leadership of head coach Lisa Bluder, transitioned from primarily employing a zone defense to adopting a man-to-man matchup as the game drew to a close. While both teams committed a high number of turnovers, it was Iowa's ability to attack inside, and find success on the free-throw line. They outscored the Buckeyes in the paint 42-28 and had 15 more free-throw attempts at the line. Overall, it was an intense, physical, defensive matchup between the two rivals.

For Ohio State, senior guard Jacy Sheldon finished the game with 24 points, 2 rebounds, 2 steals, and 9 assists, on 57.1 percent three-point shooting. Taylor Thierry, Cotie McMahon, Rebeka Mikulasikova, and Celeste Taylor all put up points in double figures.

It was undeniably a statement victory against the no.2 seed Buckeyes. Although not the official last home game, Clark and the Hawkeyes will host the first two rounds of the tournament as a high seed.

Clark was quick to acknowledge the success of her team and teammates before delving into the significance of the upcoming event. However, she also shed light on the journey they've undertaken. As a true generational talent, Clark, along with her teammates, has played a pivotal role in shaping the growth and evolution of basketball. In her lifetime, she's witnessed an unprecedented level of support, particularly in the realm of women's hoops.

"It's been a lot", said Clark on the historic day. "This is what's so fun and so special. This is what we've built here, and these are moments that you dream of. Obviously, our fans were incredible. To celebrate our seniors and four other people that have meant so much to me and given so much to this program, it's really awesome." (Fox Sports YouTube).

Pure @caitlinclark22 x #Hawkeyes pic.twitter.com/HGr2MEAh6h

— Iowa Women's Basketball (@IowaWBB) March 3, 2024

Other than Clark, four of Iowa's seniors were recognized after the game--Sharon Goodman, Gabbie Marshall, Kate Martin, and Molly Davis. Aside from Clark and Molly's injury, Goodman, Marshall, and Martin combined for 23 points, 10 rebounds, 3 steals, and 4 assists, on 50 percent three-point shooting.

After the game, Clark expressed her appreciation for the energy that the fans bring to every single game. She emphasized that the contagious vibes and the team's cohesive play are what make the experience special. While she undoubtedly enjoys a massive following as an Iowa native, she noted that the crowd cheers loudly for every member of the team.

"The style of basketball we play is like, people love it" said Clark. They are not just here for me, I'm sure I help. At the end of the day, we have a really great team and a really great culture, and that's what makes it so fun. " (Fox Sports).

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Sharon. Molly. Gabbie. Kate. Caitlin. #Hawkeyes pic.twitter.com/HUWmPjZulY

— Iowa Women's Basketball (@IowaWBB) March 3, 2024

While acknowledging that history was indeed made with the scoring record, Clark remains focused on her team's success. She expresses a desire not to be solely remembered for breaking the record, as she believes there is much more to her contributions to the team and the sport.

"A record is a record, Clark said. I don't want that to be the reason people remember me. I hope people remember me for the way I play with a smile on my face, my competitive fire. Sure, they can remember the wins. But also, the fun me and my teammates had together." (Fox Sports YouTube).

Selflessly, Clark, a typical college student, holds deep regard for her friends and teammates. Despite her exceptional talent, she adeptly balances her responsibilities, prioritizing authenticity above all as Caitlin.

With the regular season concluded, Iowa now gears up for the Big Ten tournament and the NCAA tournament in mid-March. Riding high on momentum, the Hawkeyes made a resounding statement on the grandest night of the year.

Coming up is the Big Ten Tournament, which begins on Mar. 6. Soon after March Madness and the NCAA women's basketball tournament will start on Mar. 20.

Stay tuned for more NCAA and WNBA related articles. Click here

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.

The post Caitlin Clark makes history, surpasses Pistol Pete as NCAA's all-time leading scorer appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.

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Sara Jane Gamelli

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Caitlin Clark is just 18 points shy of the all-time scoring record, while her last home game has become the priciest in college basketball history.

Caitlin Clark is bidding a regular season farewell at the Carver, with tickets commanding the highest prices in NCAA basketball history. As she approaches the milestone of becoming the NCAA's all-time leading scorer, the stage is set for an epic matchup. All eyes are on Clark for the chase in Pistol Petes's [Pete Maravich] all-time scoring record.

In the highly anticipated showdown between the two top-seeded teams, the most affordable ticket is priced at $297, available in corner F section on VividSeats. At present, the priciest seat available in the house is listed at $1,356, located in sideline section BB.

Related: Caitlin Clark declares for the 2024 WNBA Draft

ESPN's College Gameday is headed to Iowa

ESPN's College GameDay is set to return to Iowa City for the second consecutive year. Starting at 10 a.m. CT, the show will be hosted by a stellar lineup of basketball analysts, including Elle Duncan, Andraya Carter, Rebecca Lobo, Carolyn Peck, and Holly Rowe.

Anticipation mounts for the No. 6 Iowa Hawkeyes' showdown against the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. This game holds extra significance as Iowa bids farewell to its seniors, notably Caitlin Clark, who recently declared for the WNBA Draft.

Announcing the guard will forgo a fifth season at Iowa, Clark stated she wanted full transparency headed into senior night with her teammates. She emphasized the importance of enjoying the moment, and celebrating the growth of the program. Following the game, Iowa will celebrate senior night, with Caitlin Clark having one goal in mind: defeating Ohio State.

"My main goal is beating Ohio State," said Clark in post game press conference. "I think we are all just super excited for another opportunity at them. "(Owen Siebring on X)

Earlier this year, Ohio State secured a victory over Iowa in overtime

OT | @cotiemcmahon23 has a CAREER-HIGH 31 points #GoBucks pic.twitter.com/49zSvfmAge

— Ohio State Women’s Basketball (@OhioStateWBB) January 21, 2024

With tip off at 1 p.m. ET, the Buckeyes (25-3) will face the Hawkeyes (25-4) in a monumental BigTen matchup. All eyes are on Iowa, who are out for revenge, after losing to Ohio state 100-92 in overtime back on Jan. 21. With Iowa as the heavy favorites with 18,660 spectators at Value City Arena, Ohio State came back from a 12-point deficit. They outscored the Hawkeyes 25-8 in the fourth quarter, and Jacy Sheldon sealed the deal with two made free-throws in the final 26 seconds of overtime.

It was a matchup Caitlin Clark would rather forget. Despite her stellar performance, she found herself accidentally knocked to the ground as Buckeye fans stormed the court in celebration. Thankfully, Clark emerged from the incident without injuries, but it was a frightening moment for the nation's top player. Plus, they snapped Iowa's 15 game win streak.

In that meeting, Clark finished with a season high (at the time) 45 points, 2 steals, 1 block, 7 assists, and 3 rebounds. Finishing 12-25 from the field, the Iowa native finished 14-16 from free-throw line. Hannah Stuelke and Molly Davis combined for 24 points, 10 assists, and 8 rebounds. Ohio State applied the pressure defensively, holding the Hawkeyes to 46.2 percent from the field, and 35.7 percent from deep.

Caitlin Clark accounts for 34.7 percent of the Hawkeyes offense

@caitlinclark22 x #Hawkeyes pic.twitter.com/jqB75v6U5O

— Iowa Women's Basketball (@IowaWBB) January 21, 2024

7-1 in the BigTen, the Hawkeyes find themselves in a similar position as last season, where they finished 31-7. Under coach Lisa Bluder, Iowa is 12-1 at home, and won their last two games against Minnesota and Illinois. In five games against ranked teams, the Hawkeyes have impressive victories over Virginia Tech, Kansas State, and Indiana.

Indeed, Caitlin Clark has been the central focus with her extraordinary career accomplishments. Averaging 32.2 points per game, she constitutes 34.7 percent of the team's offense. However, her teammates have played a crucial role, offering support both on and off the court. Averaging the most points in NCAA women's basketball with 92.7 points per game, they will look to keep it rolling on Sunday.

Clark's been incredible at home, averaging 32.9 points, 8.8 assists, and 6.9 rebounds, on 40.8 percent three-point shooting.

For the Buckeyes, they showcased why they are the real deal this season. With a 6-1 record in the conference, they earned a signature win at home. Jacy Sheldon, who closed tings out, finished with 24 points and seven rebounds. The no. 18 seed at the time, Cotie McMahon put up a career high 33 points and 12 rebounds.

Senior Day

Caitlin Clark's full interview from today...
She explains why now was the right time to announce her decision to leave Iowa; and reflects on the last 4 years with the Hawkeyes. pic.twitter.com/PTWNH7Esbr

— Owen Siebring (@owensiebring) March 1, 2024

Sophomore Hannah Stuelke stands as the team's second-highest scorer, averaging 14.1 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. Alongside Stuelke, senior guard Kate Martin contributes significantly with 13 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. Although they aren't the highest ranked team, Clark along with the rest of the roster make the team a formidable presence once again this year. Tomorrow night, Clark, Kate Martin, Gabbie Marshall, Sharon Goodman, and Molly Davis will all the proper senior sendoff post game.

As Iowa aims to host the NCAA tournament's first round, it's a prime opportunity to honor the athletes who have made significant contributions to the program's success. The core of this team, consisting of five players, boasts a combined total of 100 wins and played pivotal roles in leading Iowa to its inaugural NCAA Championship title game last season.

Ohio State has won 15 consecutive games

The moment everyone knew. Beat TTUN and became undisputed champions on the same night! pic.twitter.com/Q84iLEy3Ir

— Ohio State Women’s Basketball (@OhioStateWBB) March 1, 2024

Following their season-opening loss to USC, Ohio State has been unstoppable, remaining undefeated since their matchup against Michigan on December 30th. During this impressive streak, they've ascended in the rankings, securing 15 consecutive victories. Notably, these wins include triumphs over formidable opponents such as ranked teams Indiana, Iowa, Penn State, and Tennessee.

Senior Jacy Sheldon stands out as the team's leading scorer, averaging an impressive 18 points per game. She is closely followed by Cotie McMahon, Taylor Thierry, and Celeste Taylor, all of whom contribute points in double figures, showcasing the depth and scoring versatility of the team.

While they failed to make it to the final four last year, the Bucks scored big by locking up Taylor, the ACC Defensive Player of the Year transfer from Duke. With March Madness right around the corner, Ohio State recently had colossal victories over Michigan, Maryland, and Penn State. Over the last five games, they've had a total point differential over Michigan State, Nebraska, Penn State, Maryland, and Michigan.

Key Players

Iowa

• Caitlin Clark (Senior, guard): 32.2 PPG | 7.4 RPG | 8.7 APG | 1.7 SPG | 39.5 % 3PT
  
• Molly Davis (Senior, guard): 6.3 PPG | 2.3 RPG | 3.2 APG | 1 SPG | 40.7 % 3PT
  
• Hannah Stuelke (Sophomore, guard): 14.1 PPG | 6.8 RPG | 1.4 APG | 1 SPG | 63.9 FG %
  
• Kate Martin (Senior, guard): 13 PPG | 6.3 RPG | 2.6 APG | 52.3 FG %

OSU

• Cotie McMahon( Sophomore, forward):14.3 PPG | 6.5 RPG | 2.2 APG | 2.0 BPG | 47.2 FG %
  
• Jacy Sheldon (Senior, guard) : 18 PPG | 3.4 RPG | 3.6 APG | 2.1 SPG | 38.4 % 3PT
  
• Celeste Taylor (Senior, guard): 10.3 PPG | 4.2 RPG | 3.4 APG | 2.3 SPG
  
• Taylor Thierry (Junior, guard) :11.4 PPG | 5.5 RPG | 1.5 APG | 1.8 SPG | 46.2 % 3PT
  
• Rebeka Mikulasikova (Senior, forward) :9.1 PPG | 2.9 RPG | 2.5 APG | 38.3 % 3PT

The Buckeyes are beatable

Ohio State has continued to build an impressive record, positioning themselves for a potential No. 1 seed with a victory over Iowa. However, their scoring average of 80.6 points per game ranks 15th in the league. While defensively they've allowed an average of 62.9 points per game, their struggle with rebounds has persisted as a season-long weakness.

For Iowa to craft a Cinderella story on senior day, they must prioritize ball control, as Ohio State thrives on fast-paced basketball and capitalizes on turnovers. Iowa has honed their defensive strategies, including the utilization of the box-and-one defense. If they can execute defensively, victory could be within their grasp.

And again, it all may come down to Caitlin Clark. After all, she scored all the overtime buckets for Iowa in their last matchup vs. Ohio State. With the Buckeyes named the outright Big Ten Champions, there's not as much on the line.

Stay tuned for more?NCAA and WNBA related?articles.?Click here

Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets.?She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.

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