Augusta Live: Saturday's 17U Standouts

July 9, 2023 by Trent Watson

Bahsil Laster (NJ Scholars EYBL): Rangy wing Bahsil Laster was impressive with his play Saturday, as he used his size advantage to make plays. Laster’s high IQ decision making and ability to handle the ball, often comes with the responsibility of initiating offense. The six-foot-five guard uses an array of long crossovers and tight dribble moves to withstand heavy ball pressure. His patience and vision in pick and roll led to easy layups for the roll man, or a short mid-range pull-up over a smaller defender. Sleeper recruit coming out of the class of 2024. 

Trenton Burns (Houston Hoops EYBL): Trenton Burns was very effective in a win against NH Lightning with his defensive prowess. The seven-foot post player was able to deter players from driving to the lane just with his presence alone. He used his length and timing to erase shots near the basket without fouling. For his size he’s capable of running the floor pretty well and is a valid vertical threat offensively. 

Justin Begg (Houston Hoops EYBL): Justin Begg’s selflessness was on full display as he ran the show for Houston Hoops during Saturday’s action. The pass first point guard was always looking to give up his good shot for a great shot, willingly making the extra pass. The way Begg ran the team and kept everyone engaged resembled what a true point guard looks like at a high level. Begg penetrated the teeth of the defense with consistency, and initiated the offense with poise. 

Robert Simpson (Alabama Fusion EYCL): Hyperactive post player, Robert Simpson has been the interior anchor for this Fusion squad all weekend. His physicality, high motor and leaping ability has been essential to Fusion’s success. Simpson is a hard-nosed work horse who sets good screens and rolls to the rim hard, expecting the ball every time. Simpson initiated contact with opposing bigs to create space, and excelled when acting as a vertical threat. 

Jordan Brathwaite (Team Melo EYBL): Jordan Brathwaite pulled up to Augusta Live and showcased some electric, multilevel scoring. Brathwaite was lights out off the catch, as well as making some tough contested shots from beyond the arc. He scanned the floor on drives to the rim and quickly made his move before the help side defenders could get into position. The quickness in his bursts allowed him to gain a step on defenders and finish with athleticism. Brathwaite also displayed confidence handling the ball, acting as a secondary playmaker and finding multiple teammates for back-door lob opportunities.