2024 MHC Program Year in Review: Rising Stars

August 22, 2024 by Brian Flinn

Last week we took a look at the programs who made the final four at the 17U level. This week , we start to take a look back at what year two of the MADE Hoops Circuit looked like for the rest of the MHC programs starting with the highest seed. How did a program’s season fare and who helped lead their teams up until Summer Finale? Assuming players stay within a program, what players are poised for a star making season in year three of the league? Today we take a look back at the year that was for Rising Stars. 

The 17U team first burst onto the scene at NY Clash, knocking off a couple of MHC teams and EYBL programs in their first weekend of MHC play. Led by the backcourt of Carter Wilson, Christian Smiley, and Chase Timberlake, Rising Stars would go on to hand Team White Mamba their only MHC regular season loss at DMV Live in May. Wings Brandon Margolin and Javelle Epps both had an impact on the Rising Stars stretch run and forward Ryan Hempfling was integral in being able to guard the post and being able to play five out thanks to his shooting. As the #3 seed at finale, they were upset by NE6 Revolt in the second round. 

Not to be outdone, the 16U team came into Summer Finale as the #2 seed and for good reason. Big men Caleb Ourigou and Sylvanus Tabe formed the best front court duo at the 16U level and were joined by wing forward Alex Kuminga for the Summer. 2027 G Hank Williams Jr. looked to be at home running the offense despite playing up a year. Wings Ryan Leary and Josh Smith both produced throughout the season and should factor heavily into next year’s rotation. The backbone of this team is built around Lawrence Woodmere Academy where Ourigou, Tabe, Smith and Williams all play together. Assuming those four are back, Rising Stars will come into 17U play as one of the favorites to win it all. 

The 15U team also found success, coming into Summer Finale as the #3 seed. The backcourt of Josiah Warfield and Kingsley Rogers was productive all spring and summer and will likely be one of the best 16U backcourts in the entire MHC next season. Coached by former UConn guard AJ Price, both are learning from a coaching staff that understands what it takes to play at the next level.