With the high school basketball season behind us, all eyes turned to LakePoint Sports in Cartersville, Georgia, for Stop 1 of the EYBL circuit. The top players from across the country gathered to showcase their talent and solidify their status among the nation’s elite. The weekend was particularly exciting with the No. 1 player in the class of 2027 and the No. 1 player in the class of 2028 both in attendance, creating a major buzz in the gym. Several notable players emerged, while some newcomers made a significant impact on the EYBL stage. Additionally, multiple players competed up an age group during Session 1, while the class of 2029 made its first appearance on the circuit during Stop 1.
17U Eye Catchers
Beckham Black 6’4, 180 PG – AB Elite (2027)
Black spent more time playing off the ball during Stop 1 than he did throughout the high school season with Southeastern Prep, but still proved highly effective as a scorer and secondary creator. A physical guard, Black consistently looked to use his strength on the perimeter, in the midrange, and even on the block where he utilized footwork to finish around the rim. His aggressive style earned him 7 free-throw attempts per game, and he capitalized at an elite rate, shooting 90.5% from the stripe. Black also flashed good burst with the ball and made strong reads after beating defenders, averaging 4 assists to 2.7 turnovers per game. He finished the weekend averaging 21 points per game on 47.6% shooting from the field. While already a threat from the perimeter, improving his consistency from three-point range (30.8% on 4.3 attempts per game) would further elevate his game.
Marri Wesley 6’5, 205 SG – AB Elite (2027)
Wesley played with aggression and physicality throughout the weekend, consistently scoring through contact in the paint and on the low block. A powerful wing, he embraced physical play and repeatedly pressured defenses while averaging 8.7 free-throw attempts per game, though there is room for improvement at the line after shooting 57.7% FT%. Wesley also knocked down perimeter shots at a strong clip, shooting 42.9% from three-point range and spacing the floor effectively when opportunities presented themselves. His impact extended to the glass, where he ranked third in the league at 12 rebounds per game while leading EYBL in offensive rebounds at 4.3 per contest. Defensively, Wesley flashed versatility with his length and movement skills, showing the ability to switch across positions. Although he had an impressive weekend overall, limiting turnovers (3 per game, including 5 against Expressions Elite) will be an area to monitor moving forward.
Marcus Spears 6’9, 200 PF – Drive Nation (2027)
Spears impressed in limited viewings during Stop 1, particularly in a matchup against AB Elite where he showcased flashes of his upside. A fluid forward, Spears displayed the ability to attack off the dribble and step into perimeter jumpers from the top of the key. He flashed athleticism around the basket, though much of it currently shows best in transition and open-floor situations. Defensively, Spears showed encouraging versatility but still has room to develop into a more consistent impact defender. Despite appearing in only two games, Spears produced efficiently, averaging 20 points and 9 rebounds (4 offensive) per contest while shooting 61.5% from the field and 63.6% from the free-throw line.
CJ Rosser 6’9, 195 SG – Team United (2027)
Rosser endured an inconsistent opening weekend, struggling at times with efficiency and offensive rhythm. While he showed flashes of scoring ability near the basket, he often lacked counters offensively and became predictable when initial drives or moves were cut off, settling for contested pull-up jumpers. Rosser averaged 12.7 points per game but shot just 25% from the field and 7.1% from three-point range on 4.7 attempts per contest. Despite the offensive struggles, his long-term upside remains clear. Rosser possesses a strong frame, high-level athleticism, and intriguing physical tools that continue to make him one of the more appealing long-term prospects in the class. He also contributed defensively and on the glass, averaging 8 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.3 steals per game.
King Gibson 6’6, 185 PG/SG – Team United (2027)
Gibson delivered an up-and-down weekend but flashed significant upside throughout Stop 1. In one standout showing, he erupted for 25 points on 10-for-14 shooting before struggling in his next outing with just 4 points on 1-for-6 shooting. At his best, Gibson consistently got downhill and attacked the paint while thriving in transition. He showed strong aggression, quickness with the ball, and explosive athleticism, highlighted by several powerful dunks in half-court settings. Gibson also excelled at getting to the free-throw line, averaging 7 attempts per game. He shot an impressive 42.9% from three-point range, though his 47.6% free-throw shooting leaves room for improvement. Despite the inconsistency, Gibson still averaged 16.3 points per game on 51.4% shooting. While capable as a facilitator, continued development as a playmaker will be important after averaging just 1 assist to 2 turnovers per game. Team chemistry also appeared to be a work in progress for Team United, which struggled offensively in stretches.
Markus Kerr 6’6, 180 SG – Team United (2027)
Much like teammate King Gibson, Kerr experienced both highs and lows during the weekend. He followed a dominant 29-point, 10-rebound performance on 11-for-14 shooting with a difficult outing in which he scored just 7 points on 3-for-14 from the floor. When in rhythm, Kerr was highly effective operating in the midrange, consistently knocking down pull-ups despite limited space. Although he missed his only two three-point attempts across the weekend, he compensated by converting difficult deep twos and attacking the rim effectively. Kerr also proved highly reliable at the free-throw line, shooting 90.9%. A competitive and emotional player, Kerr brings length, athleticism, and defensive versatility to the floor while contributing strongly as a rebounder, averaging 7.7 boards per game, including 4 offensive rebounds per contest.
Henry impressed with his aggressive approach and physical style of play throughout Stop 1. While he flashed some perimeter shooting ability, improving consistency from both three-point range (22.2%) and the free-throw line (64.7%) remains an area for development. At this stage, Henry is at his best using his strong frame to initiate contact, slash to the rim, and score around the basket or from the post against smaller defenders. Although not an especially dynamic creator with the ball yet, he possesses enough skill, athleticism, and physicality to remain productive in the half court. Defensively and on the glass is where Henry separated himself most, consistently playing bigger than his size. He averaged 2.7 blocks per game and ranked second in EYBL rebounding at 12.7 boards per contest, reinforcing his value on both ends of the floor.
Adan Diggs 6’5, 180 PG/SG – Vegas Elite (2028)
One of the younger standouts playing up during Stop 1, Diggs looked comfortable competing against older competition. He played effectively both on and off the ball, using a quick first step to penetrate and get downhill. Diggs consistently attacked the rim, stopped effectively in the midrange, and occasionally used reverse pivots to create space for elevated jumpers. He also flashed solid feel as a passer, making kickout reads after collapsing defenses. Off the ball, Diggs showed strong instincts cutting into open space and finding scoring opportunities near the rim. A good athlete with long arms, he finished above the rim multiple times throughout the weekend and embraced contact offensively, averaging 5 free-throw attempts per game while converting 80% from the stripe. Diggs averaged 15.3 points per game, though improving efficiency (32.7% FG%, 10% 3PT on 6.7 attempts) will be key moving forward. Still, the talent and long-term upside were evident throughout the weekend.
Cayden Daughtry 6’2, 150 PG – Florida Rebels (2027)
Daughtry put together a strong weekend overall despite an inefficient final game in which he scored just 2 points on 1-for-8 shooting. A dynamic ball-handler, Daughtry consistently got to his spots offensively and forced defenders to respect his deep shooting range. A threat to score from well beyond the arc, he shot 38.5% from three-point range on 4.3 attempts per game. Though undersized, Daughtry plays with notable strength and physicality, consistently initiating contact and earning trips to the free-throw line, where he averaged 9.3 attempts while converting 89.3%. He also created offense effectively for teammates after collapsing defenses, averaging 4.3 assists to 2.7 turnovers per game. Daughtry rounded out his production by rebounding well for his size, pulling down 6 boards per contest.
Devin Cleveland 6’3, 175 PG – Brad Beal Elite (2027)
Cleveland put together a productive high-volume weekend, consistently making big shots from both the perimeter and midrange. A skilled and smooth guard with the ball, Cleveland often preferred operating into pull-up jumpers rather than attacking all the way to the rim. He averaged 19 points per game while shooting 41.9% from the field and 30% from three-point range, leaving room for further efficiency growth. Despite that, Cleveland proved effective as both a scorer and floor spacer throughout the weekend. He also excelled at drawing fouls, averaging 5.3 free-throw attempts per game while converting an outstanding 93.8% from the stripe. While there is still physical development ahead, Cleveland’s skill level and scoring ability stood out during Stop 1.
Patrick Otey 6’5, 190 SG – Expressions (2027)
Otey showcased maturity and physicality throughout the weekend, consistently using his strong frame to create offense. A polished wing, Otey displayed a solid handle and used crossovers effectively to create separation, though much of his downhill game currently comes in straight-line drives. He absorbed contact well and consistently finished through defenders. While his outside shooting numbers (28.6% from three) leave room for improvement, Otey flashed good mechanics and squared up quickly into jumpers. He averaged 19 points per game on an efficient 48.8% shooting from the field, highlighted by a standout 29-point outing against AB Elite in which he shot 61.9% from the floor and 40% from three-point range. Otey also contributed on the glass, averaging 6.7 rebounds per contest.
LJ Smith 6’4, 180 PG/SG – Team Thad (2027, Ohio State)
Smith caught fire throughout the opening weekend, emerging as one of the top perimeter shooters at Stop 1. Interestingly, he shot better from three-point range (43.5%) than from inside the arc while shooting 42.6% overall from the field. Although Team Thad fell short in an overtime battle against Vegas Elite, Smith delivered one of the better scoring performances of the weekend, erupting for 26 points while knocking down 6-of-12 from deep. His quick release, polished footwork, and ability to shoot off the dribble consistently stood out. Smith also flashed quickness with the ball and occasional paint touches in isolation settings. Expanding his offensive mix and drawing more fouls could further elevate his game after attempting only four free throws across three contests. Still, scoring was not an issue, as he averaged 17.7 points per game while adding 3.3 assists to just 1.7 turnovers
Michai White City Rocks
Michai White played up during Stop 1 and ranks among the top three point guards in the class of 2028, currently sitting at No. 17 overall. White was one of the better players on the floor, helping lead City Rocks to a 2-1 record. He consistently stood out with his scoring ability, elite ball-handling, and poise. White finished the weekend ranked in the top 10 in both scoring and assists, averaging 26 points per game, ranking fourth in scoring and tying for fourth in assists at 6 per game. He plays with a fearless attitude and maintains a consistent pace, always appearing under control. His standout performance came on opening night against Beckham Black, the top-ranked point guard in the 2027 class. In Game 1, White led City Rocks to an eight-point victory, scoring 37 points and adding 5 assists while shooting 66% from the field and 57.1% from three-point range.
Chase Lumpkin Jet
Lumpkin is a versatile scorer capable of producing at all three levels while showcasing a smooth offensive game. He possesses a tight handle and impressive athleticism, allowing him to create space and separation from defenders. He quickly finds rhythm offensively and consistently makes plays for others. Over the weekend, he finished in the top 10 in both scoring and assists, ranking third in scoring at 26 points per game and second in assists at 7 per game. Defensively, he also made his mark, averaging 2.3 steals per game across three contests. What truly separates him from many of his peers is his scoring ability, highlighted by a standout performance against Liv On in which he scored 33 points and dished out 7 assists while shooting 57.9% from the field and 60% from three-point range, the second-highest scoring output on Day 1.
Ahmad Hudson JL3
Ahmad Hudson is the No. 1-ranked tight end in the nation and the No. 19 basketball player in his class, and his athleticism and physicality clearly translate to the hardwood. He embraces contact and imposes his will on both ends of the floor. An elite back-to-the-basket player, Hudson consistently finishes around the rim with soft touch and physicality. He led the 17U division in rebounding at 14 boards per game, including 3.7 offensive rebounds per contest. Along with his rebounding presence, Hudson protected the paint effectively, averaging 3.3 blocks per game, good for fourth on the circuit. His most dominant outing came in a seven-point win over NY Lightning, where he finished with 17 points, 16 rebounds, and 6 blocks while shooting 57.1% from the field.
Ryan Hampton Liv On
Hampton, a top-15 player in the class of 2027, consistently stood out during Stop 1. Although team success was not constant for Liv On, Hampton proved to be one of the best scorers of the weekend, finishing No. 2 overall in 17U scoring. He constantly pressured defenses and lived in the paint, attacking the rim at will. While his jumper was inconsistent, his motor and ability to absorb contact separated him from many of his peers. Hampton shot 41% from the field and averaged more than 13 free-throw attempts per game. He finished the weekend with back-to-back 29-point performances and went an impressive 28-for-32 from the free-throw line during those games.
Colton Hiller PSA Cardinals
Colton Hiller, a top-three player in the class of 2028, spent Stop 1 playing up with the PSA Cardinals. Although the team struggled, Hiller looked completely comfortable competing against older competition. With tremendous size and strength, he blends skill and athleticism to thrive offensively. Hiller averaged 21 points per game while shooting 42.9% from the floor. With the ability to play both on and off the ball, he was a constant threat offensively, unafraid of contact and regularly finishing through defenders. As he continues developing while playing up this summer, Hiller has the tools to continue climbing in the 2028 rankings.
Kager Knueppel Team Herro
The NBA bloodline was evident all weekend with Kager Knueppel, who shares plenty of similarities with his older brother. Knueppel is a long, fluid athlete who plays to his strengths and can heat up in a hurry. He helped lead Team Herro to a 2-1 weekend while contributing in multiple ways on both ends of the floor. Knueppel can make plays off the bounce, score on the move, and thrives in transition while finding open spots to get shots up. His lightning-quick jumper stood out throughout the weekend, as he shot 54.2% from three-point range on 24 attempts. He finished the weekend averaging 16.3 points and 5.3 rebounds while shooting 46.7% from the field. Additionally, his defensive presence stood out, using his size and mobility to guard multiple positions while averaging 2.3 blocks per game and finishing among the top 10 in blocks during the weekend.
Anderson Diaz NY Rens
Anderson Diaz showcased his scoring prowess during Stop 1, finishing the weekend in the top five in scoring while helping lead the NY Rens to a perfect 3-0 record. Beyond his scoring production, Diaz was a well-rounded contributor, averaging 6 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.3 steals per game as a lead guard. His ball handling and quick first step consistently allowed him to get to his spots offensively. Diaz scored effectively at all three levels and played with a high motor throughout the weekend. His best performance came opening night against the Oakland Soldiers, where he posted 29 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, and 6 turnovers on 23 shot attempts in an 11-point victory. Overall, Diaz averaged 25.3 points per game while shooting 51% from the field, 46.7% from three-point range, and a perfect 19-for-19 from the free-throw line.
Moussa Kamissoko PSA Cardinals
Moussa Kamissoko is a 6-foot-8 athlete who excelled on both ends of the floor during Stop 1. His length and activity level made him a disruptive defender, averaging 1.7 steals per game while ranking in the top 10 in rebounding at 9.3 per game. Offensively, Kamissoko showcased a smooth, versatile skill set across all three levels. He can score with his back to the basket, attack off the dribble, shoot off the bounce, and knock down perimeter shots. One of the standout athletes in the gym, he consistently finished above the rim and ran the floor extremely well. As a top-20 player in the class of 2027, Kamissoko displayed impressive versatility offensively, thriving both on and off the ball. He finished the weekend averaging 18.7 points and 9.3 rebounds while shooting 50% from the field.
Lewis Uvwo Nightrydas
Uvwo stands out from others on this list because he is not primarily known for offensive production or scoring volume. Standing 6-foot-10 with a reported 7-foot-6 wingspan, Uvwo maximizes his size and physical tools defensively. He averaged 10 points while shooting 68.8% from the field, but what truly separated him was his defensive production, averaging 6.7 rebounds and an eye-popping 6.3 blocks per game. He dominated the paint and relentlessly protected the rim throughout the weekend. On Saturday, he posted a near triple-double with 12 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 blocks against Liv On. He followed it up Sunday with 12 points, 6 rebounds, and 9 blocks. Considered one of the premier rim protectors in the class, Uvwo reinforced that reputation with a dominant defensive showing in Atlanta.
16U Eye Catchers
AJ Williams 6’8, 210 SF – Georgia Stars 16U (2028)
Williams stood out as one of the top all-around performers in the 16U division during Stop 1. Possessing an excellent frame and natural athleticism, he consistently elevated with ease around the basket and looked fluid pulling up into jumpers. Williams shot the ball well from deep, converting 42.9% from three-point range on 3.5 attempts per game while maintaining clean mechanics and balance, even on the move. He also flashed impressive passing ability, averaging 3.8 assists to just 2 turnovers per contest. Williams led the 16U division in scoring at 25 points per game while shooting 44.4% from the field. Though there may still be room for him to attack the basket even more aggressively, he consistently generated free throws, averaging 8.5 attempts and converting 88.2% at the line. He also impacted the glass in a major way, ranking third in 16U rebounding at 9.5 boards per game, including 2.8 offensive rebounds per contest.
Bentley Lusakueno 6’10, 205 C – CP3 (2028)
Lusakueno (pictured) quietly put together one of the more intriguing weekends in 16U, posting elite shooting splits across four games at 56.8% from the field, 58.3% from three-point range, and 88.9% from the free-throw line. A highly skilled big man, he comfortably knocked down shots from midrange and beyond the arc while flashing encouraging feel as a passer. Lusakueno still has room to continue developing as a ball-handler, but the foundation is impressive for a player his size. Athletic and skilled, he showed flashes of doing a bit of everything, though continuing to add strength, improve defensive consistency, and play with greater physicality will be key long term. Even so, Lusakueno averaged 16.3 points and 6.5 rebounds (2 offensive) per game, showcasing considerable upside moving forward.
Peter Julius Georgia Stars
Peter Julius was one of the most physically imposing players at Stop 1, regardless of age group. A dominant force around the basket, Julius consistently controlled the paint and anchored the Georgia Stars during their perfect 4-0 weekend. Playing for the defending two-time Peach Jam champions, he proved instrumental to their early success. Across four games, Julius posted three double-doubles and consistently imposed his will physically. Defensively, he led the 16U division in rebounding at 11.5 boards per game and ranked second in blocks at 2.8 per contest. Julius possesses strong hands, runs the floor well, and constantly looks to finish above the rim. He shot an efficient 73% from the field over the weekend, with his standout performance coming in an 18-point win over NY Lightning, where he finished with 27 points and 11 rebounds on 11-for-13 shooting.
Micah Gunter Team United
Micah Gunter emerged as one of the biggest standouts for Team United during their undefeated 4-0 start to the EYBL season. A pure scorer and lead defender, Gunter excelled on both ends of the floor while consistently making life difficult for opposing guards. Over the weekend, he was the only player in the 16U division to finish in the top 10 across three statistical categories. Gunter ranked fifth in scoring at 20.3 points per game, first in steals at 4.5 per game, and first in assists at 6.8 per contest. He consistently showcased his ability to score in bunches while also making smart decisions as a facilitator and lead defender. His efficiency stood out as well, as he shot nearly 51% from the field on 61 total attempts throughout the weekend.
Marque Johnson Jr. NY Rens
Johnson Jr. made a strong impression during the first session with his scoring ability and overall feel for the game. Although team success was limited, he still finished the weekend tied for third in scoring at 20.3 points per game. Johnson showcased his versatility by scoring in a variety of ways while flashing good size and length for his position. Over the weekend, he shot 50% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc. His best performance came in a seven-point loss, where he finished with 26 points and 6 rebounds while shooting 41% from the floor and 50% from three-point range.
Erick Dampier Jr., Alabama Fusion
Dampier Jr., the No. 2-ranked player in the class of 2028, stood out throughout the weekend with his size, length, and physical tools. Although he struggled in Game 1, finishing with just 2 points and 5 rebounds, he bounced back in a major way on Saturday against Expressions, finishing with 20 points and 16 rebounds while shooting 9-for-10 from the floor. He ended the weekend ranked third in rebounding at 9.7 boards per game and tied for third in blocks at 2 per game. An elite-level athlete with strong feel and tempo, Dampier helped anchor Alabama Fusion to a 2-1 start to the summer.
Jaden McCullough Georgia Stars
McCullough played a major role for the Georgia Stars throughout the weekend, consistently impacting the game in multiple ways. A strong, physical lead guard ranked among the top 100 players in the 2028 class, McCullough helped lead the Stars to a perfect start to the season. He contributed as a scorer when needed, defended well on the ball, and consistently rebounded his position. Over the weekend, McCullough averaged 14.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2.8 steals per game while shooting 49% from the field. His standout performance came opening night in a nine-point win over Jet Academy, where he finished with 20 points and 8 rebounds while shooting 45% from the field.
15U Eye Catchers
Austin Leonard Jet
Leonard possesses tremendous size and feel for the game and consistently looked in control throughout the weekend. He played effectively both on and off the ball, showcasing impressive pace and the ability to score at all three levels. Leonard displayed strong ball-handling skills, creating for himself while also setting up teammates for easy baskets. A true three-level scorer, he showcased a smooth shooting stroke from beyond the arc while excelling off the bounce. His midrange pull-up looked nearly automatic at times, consistently creating quality offense. Leonard also demonstrated the ability to guard multiple positions and compete on the glass. He averaged 15.3 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, including 2.5 offensive rebounds per contest. As a top-five player in his class, Leonard has all the tools to develop into a high-level prospect.
Jordan McDaniel The Family
McDaniel put together one of the biggest scoring performances of Stop 1, leaving Atlanta as the top scorer in the 15U division while helping lead The Family to an undefeated weekend. He possesses a tight handle that allows him to get anywhere on the floor and consistently pressure opposing defenses. Although his long-range shooting was inconsistent throughout the weekend, McDaniel consistently made winning plays and attacked the defense. Along with his scoring, he averaged 5.3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3.7 steals per game, impacting the game on both ends of the floor. His best outing came in a seven-point win over the NY Rens, where he finished with a weekend-high 31 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 steals.
William Peagler Jr., All Ohio
Another pure scorer, Peagler Jr. finished the weekend as the No. 2 scorer in the 15U division. He consistently pressured defenses and lived at the free-throw line, attempting 33 free throws across four games. Peagler scored at will off the bounce and relentlessly attacked the paint throughout the weekend. While possessing solid size at the point guard position, he maximizes his strengths by consistently getting downhill. His airtight handle helped him create offense for both himself and teammates. Peagler stuffed the stat sheet, averaging 24.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. His best performance came against AOT, where he finished with 27 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists while shooting 62.5% from the floor.
Grant Duggins CP3
Grant Duggins delivered one of the more well-rounded performances of the weekend while helping Team CP3 remain undefeated. He was the only player in the 15U division to rank in the top 10 in both scoring and rebounding, finishing ninth in scoring at 17.5 points per game and fourth in rebounding at 9.5 boards per contest. Duggins played a major role in Team CP3’s perfect 4-0 weekend and shot an efficient 59.1% from the field and 42.9% from three-point range on seven attempts throughout the event. His standout performance came in a close four-point victory over the PSA Cardinals, where he recorded 21 points and 15 rebounds while shooting 60% from the field.
Zaire Colbert Jet
Colbert entered Stop 1 as one of the top point guards in his class and reinforced that reputation throughout the weekend for Jet Academy. He finished in the top 10 in both scoring and assists, ranking seventh in scoring at 17.8 points per game and fourth in assists at 5 per game. Colbert consistently controlled the pace and led his team to a perfect 4-0 record. His elite handle and tremendous feel stood out, as he consistently made the right reads and saw the floor extremely well. His best performance came in an in-state matchup against the Georgia Stars, where he finished with 24 points and 4 assists while shooting 63.6% from the field and 60% from beyond the arc.
