Saturday at the NYC Clash had a little bit of everything — high-level shot making, physical matchups, and plenty of energy across the city. With a mix of circuit teams and local programs battling it out, the day brought competitive games across the board and a chance for a number of players and teams to make an early statement. A few storylines stood out, followed by some individual performances that continue to trend upward.
East Coast Cyclones Make MHC Debut
One of the most proven MADE Hoops Circuit programs and last season’s runners up made their 2026 circuit debut on Saturday afternoon- knocking off Eddie Lau Elite (NJ) and The Nation (MD) by 8 points a piece. All-MHC guard Isaiah Thomas returns for a final go around this Spring and is flanked by a couple of versatile wings in Cam Weyforth and Andrew Corcoran. Big man Kanye Perkins impressed with his ability to space the floor, while NiQuan Lee spent a majority of his time running the show and attacking the rim. It’s a group that has the talent to compete at the top tier of the league yet again this season- and certainly one that college coaches need to get eyes on.
Riverside 16U Rolls on Saturday
The Riverside Hawks (NY) 16U group stepped away from the Under Armour Circuit and didn’t miss a beat at the NYC Clash. They drew a strong crowd in their opening win over All Ball (FL), led by a big-time performance from wing Cheikh Samb. He created for others, finished through contact, and battled through some bumps along the way to help his team secure the win. His consistency and leadership set the tone.
Game two against a tough Rising Stars group required a different approach, and Riverside showed they’re comfortable winning in multiple ways. They leaned into their defense, grinding out possessions and making things difficult. Souleymane Kone anchored that effort on the perimeter — an explosive, quick-twitch defender with active hands who continues to take steps forward. This 16U group has depth, toughness, and pieces that fit.
Dragon Army 16U CC Clips MC Elite CC 16U in Overtime
Queens College had a real buzz on Saturday, and this one lived up to it. Dragon Army (NJ) and MC Elite (CAN) went back and forth in one of the more competitive games of the day, with neither side able to create much separation.
MC Elite made a late push, but Dragon Army responded behind the efforts of Jack Cleary and London Amsinger, who refused to let the game slip. Once it hit overtime, they found another gear and closed it out. It’s a group that continues to maximize its talent and play with confidence — and it’s starting to show.
The Intimidator – Theo Edema, 2027 Forward, Team New England (MA)
There are few big men who can match the size and physicality that Edema brings. He was a force on both ends of the floor once again, finishing with power around the rim while protecting it on the other end. Edema anchored wins over Crown MHC (NY) and Drifty Elite (NY), consistently impacting the game with his presence. A college-ready center, he continues to solidify himself as one of the top bigs in the 2027 class and should have no shortage of suitors moving forward.
Swiss Army Knife – Dez Rudanovic, 2029 Forward, Scholars EYBL (NJ)
This loaded 2029 group didn’t shy away from the moment, stepping up into the 16U division and making a statement. In a dominant showing against Metro United, Rudanovic was right at the center of it all. The versatile forward plays with a strong feel, controls the glass, and consistently makes the right reads. He can step out and knock down threes, start the break, and defend multiple positions. Add in his unselfishness and ability to pass out of the post, and you have a player who impacts winning in a lot of ways. The upside here is significant, and Rudanovic looks like a name that’s only going to keep trending up.
The Future Gem – Laron Mack Jr., 2028 Wing, All Ball (FL)
Mack brought a level of energy that jumped off the court all weekend. Whether he was flying in transition or attacking the rim, he made plays that shifted momentum. The 6-foot-6plus wing scored it at all three levels, showed a confident handle, and flashed real playmaking ability. His motor, toughness, and feel stood out, especially in matchups against Riverside and the GB Blue Devils. With his blend of athleticism and skill, Mack continues to look like a problem for opposing defenses moving forward this AAU season.
