Kyle Robinson, EEP Basketball 17U
MADE Hoops was all over New York City this weekend as the Collision event began on Saturday. There were games at the New Heights Facility, Brooklyn College and Queens College featuring prospects of all ages. We were in Queens checking out the 17U bracket with a few 16U teams sprinkled in.
Here’s a few storylines and superlatives from Saturday:
EEP 17U Rolls on Day 1
This scrappy team full of local prospects collected two early wins over Mount Vernon Elite and Metro Boston MHC. They really rolled over each opponent, separated early and their offense showed a ton of balance. They have a nice three-headed monster in David Duncan, Luke Jackson and Kyle Robinson. These three standouts played excellent during their wins and also could be breakout stars next season in the CHSAA.
Robinson plays with heart; he’s got an elite motor, loves to compete and has so much upside as a guard. Duncan is a smooth big man who’s a little undersized but super skilled and polished. Jackson brings it all together with his athleticism, scoring in transition and versatility on both ends. They have a few other interesting pieces, they are very well coached and a program to look out for.
Wiz Kids 16U Knocks Off SLT Hoops
SLT Hoops stepped in for the City Rocks 16U squad who unfortunately didn’t make it. However the Wiz Kids 16U team showed it’s ready for all challengers even ones who are older. They showed right away they were intimidated, they were physical, aggressive and effective.
The Wiz Kids got going towards the end of the first half and never looked back. Ashton Pierre-Charles showed his ability to score from all three levels and remains red hot as a prospect. Jamel Jordan and Akeem McLaren look like one of the best returning combinations in New York City. They have tough wings, strong rebounders and love to play fast. Watch out for the Wiz kids.
Saturday Superlatives
Alpha Dog – Kareem Hopkins, New Heights MHC (NY)
Hopkins is one of the most dynamic prospects on the MADE Hoops Circuit and could help out several Division I programs immediately. He’s got the size, athleticism and skillset that all these programs are looking for. His ability as a playmaker has been on full display with New Heights who lets him operate at the point, on the wing and have no problem letting him get the ball in transition. This kid’s a winner, he’s a matchup nightmare, he blocks shots and a smart coach could use him all over the floor. I’m a big fan of his game.
Spark Plug – Kaiden Tyler, Mount Vernon Elite (NY)
Mount Vernon Elite fell short in their games but they certainly have a star in Mr. Tyler. This spark plug was making extremely tough shots all over the floor on Saturday. His teammates get him the ball, he’s got the green light, he heats up quickly and easily creates space for his shot. He’s a really underrated prospect who should be bound for a massive breakout season at Mount Vernon next year.
