Film Room: 2027 New York Lightning at 8th Grade Finale

July 21, 2023 by MADE Hoops Staff

The talented group from New York made a big trip down South in hopes of making a run to be claimed the undisputed national champions. They went 2-2 during their time in Augusta, however they were right there in every game. This group had some familiar faces who shined on our East Circuit and we were also introduced to some new talent as well. Read more about New York Lightning’s results and standouts from the action at our 8th Grade Finale.

Record: 2-2

Win Over Team Spartans
The New York Lightning started the 8th Grade Finale off a strong note with a one-possession win over a gritty Team Spartans squad.

Win over Raleigh Raiders
The group carried momentum from their first win into this game where they earned another pool play victory.

One-Possession Loss to Team USC
New York Lightning was in this game for the majority of it, however they weren’t able to come out on top.

Tough Loss to Livon Bluechips
New York Lightning was in this game until Livon Bluechips started to pull away in the final minutes.

2027 lead guard Eyan Valadez popped out in this group’s first game when he put together a strong offensive outing in a win over Team Spartans. He’s a shifty advantage creator who leveraged quick bursts of speed & tight crossovers to attack closeouts. Fluid pull-up scorer who took advantage of missed or delayed rotations when he beat his initial defender off the bounce. Capable spot-up scorer who also proved that he could be impactful on the perimeter as well. Made some strong reads while stringing together some playmaking chops during his time in Georgia.

2027 off-guard Nicholas Rebracca was another backcourt prospect who did plenty of damage himself in Augusta. Potent shotmaker with a fluid release & clean shooting mechanics off the catch. Demonstrated advanced relocation skills for a prospect his age and he was constantly looking for open space. Also showed off his ability to beat closeouts with pump fakes when opponents attempted to run him off the three-point line.

2028 wing Kevin Wheatley Jr was a wing forward who popped out throughout the 8th Grade Finale in Augusta. He’s a physical slasher at the point of attack who was highly productive getting downhill off rip-throughs. His explosive first step helped him exploit slower defenders, plus he showed glimpses of his ability to score with his back to the basket against smaller mismatches. Still developing as a shooter, however he did flash some floorspacing ability as well.

2027 forward Andrew Iduh was the interior anchor for this group and he excelled at playing within his skillset. Possesses strong positional size, a sturdy frame and a high motor that allowed him to be a prominent rebounder on both ends of the floor. Fought to keep possessions alive with his activity and aggression on the offensive glass. Productive low-post scorer who excelled at carving up space and showed why he’s more than capable of bullying smaller opponents into high-percentage looks.

2027 wing Sebastian Cotte is an athletic wing forward who had some strong showings throughout the 8th Grade Finale. He’s a physical athlete who leverages a quick first step and his upper body strength to force his way downhill. Tough defender at the point of attack who could wall-off opposing slashers. Cotte also proved his worth as a rebounder by leveraging his motor and toughness to be productive on the glass.