Initial 2029 Class Rankings Below!!

 

 Class of 2029 Initial Top 50 All Inclusive Illinois &NWI

This is the initial list for 2029, there are many kids who will emerge on the list as time goes by, there are many kids this young who have not been seen and we do not include kid unless we have seen the kid play. We will be out at School games , Club games and tournaments throughout the Fall and Winter, The list is designed for Promotion Of kids and should be used as Motivation and inspiration, Since this is the initial list it will be done in groups and the individual numbers will be put up after a little more observing in our next Update. There also are times where I mistakenly do not put a kid on the list, feel free to contact me. Again, this is for Motivation “I’ve Coached Numerous Pro’s including Robert Covington, Jevon Carter, Sterling Brown and even more D 1 players including Jerimiah Williams, Perry Cowan, Alonzo Verge Jr, Xavier Pinson, Elijah Joiner & many many more who were not in anyone’s rankings in middle school or this early stage,  you are preparing yourself for down the line. Stay focused continue to work and get better.

Ricky Moore 773 383-0972

9/3

1. Keiwon Gulley
2. Cody Rader
3. Carmelo Hearns
4. Lazavion Kelley
5. Ronald Johnson
6. Ryder Bradford
7. Derrell Jackson Jr.
8. James Taylor
9. Elijah Cooper
10. Travis “TJ” Jamison
11. Tre’ Walker
12. Kaden McClellan
13. Tyler Harris
14. Zayden Johnson
15. Michael Harper
16. Glenn Brown Jr
17. Kentron Smith
18. Dekari Nesbitt
19. Johnny Underwood
20. Landon Hurley
21.  Larry Ellis
22. Breyon Luckett
23. Titus Payton
24. Dj Moore
25.  Kalob Hayes
26.  Yogi Parson
27. Marcus Wells
28. Gerry Cocroft III
29. Drake Cradle
30. Keyon Millison Jr.
31. Drake Gensler
32. Mehki Gillis
33. Isaac Smith
34. Carlton Wood
35. Malik Royster
36. Deon Osborne
37. Amari Flukes
38. William Coulter
39.  Derick Robinson
40. Travis Gladney
41. Paul Howard Jr.
42. Ricky Brown
43. Felix Harper
44. Deshaun Clay
45. Cameron Spurlin
46. Julius Hill
47. Ahmad Grayson
48. Joshua Pickens II
49. Ricardo Pirales
50. Mitchell Williams

Updated Top 40 Coming  Sept. 6 @ 10pm

Top 40 Teams Pound For Pound Regardless of Class.

1.  Demons 2027- The group has made a resurgence, winning Jr Hoops Elite Nationals rather easily and the group has been dominating the area for years, respect has to be given for what they have done. They will host the #1 spot as we close for now. Markese is a monster.
2. Illinois Flight 2027 – The team is a National Powerhouse and has been playing well all year, the roster gets shaken up here Locally, will all the pieces remain in tack is the question, if so they could very well move back to that number 1 spot. But They Have to win a Championship here win all the hitters are in the building. Davion Thompson is a two sport star. So don’t when he will be available for basketball as he will be scoring touchdowns and trying to get a national championship in football.
3. 94ft. 2029- The cream of the crop in 2029 . Will they be tested at Elite 8 Battle For the Crown is The ?
4. Meanstreets 2029 – The group & 94ft are cream of the crop in 2029. Will they play in Battle of The Crown. The end of the season collision with 94ft. could be epic.
5. Demons 2026- The group ran through this past weekend, in one of the toughest brackets at Jr Hoops Elite Nationals. Coming in an under dog, this group battled and won despite a few injuries. The question is, will the group stay in tact. The addition of  Marquise is HUGE!!!  They definitely shocked most everyone in the gym Sunday. 
6. I-Hustle 2026-  This group here is tough!! yes suhhh I love this group, they play hard, play for each other and are well coached. Coach Rivers has his team prepared at all times.
7. Mac Irvin Fire 2025- The group is getting healthy for high school.
8. Meanstreets 2025-  The group has talent after a few defections, the new players stepped up.
9. My Journey 2025- The group has played well all taking their act on the road and showing nice in Las Vegas. Will they come home and win Jr Hoops Elite Nationals aug 6-8th? they are among favorites.
10. Hoopstars 2025- Been playing well this spring knocking off several of the heavy hitters ang thus want to be called a heavy hitter themselves.
11. Meanstreets 2028- The group with all its pieces is hard to beat, when their shots are falling and the are moving the ball they are fun to watch.
12. Chi-town Bulldogs 2028- The group is starting to get their respect. The additions have changed their positioning. Ray Bowling is a problem, he has a stroke from deep, and has a lil shiftiness that allows him to keep opponents off balance and score at the rim. The group won Jr. Hoops Elite Nationals
13. Grind Family 2025 – The group finally broke through and won a big time tourney, knocking off all the heavy hitters in route, nothing was easy or given they earned it. Kendall Cutler, EJ Breland, Elijah Embry, & Kadin Williams all had moments this past weekend where they showed they are prospects.
14. Illinois Pride 2028 – The group is loaded with talent for this age. W
15. Mac Irvin Fire 2026- They end the Summer Season with a short roster, they will replenish and have new faces very soon.
16. Illinois Flight 2028- The team is on a break right now while players engage in their second sport. Who will be in the building next time they play is the question.
17. Kessel Heat 2025- This group has all the intangibles, size, shooting, athletes and when they are all playing this group moves way way up.
18. Dream Chasers 2026- The group player well and made it too the Championship Game @ Gatorade this past weekend.
19. Geek Squad 2027- Well the group proved they need to be mentioned with good teams in their grade level, they finished second at Nationals and came back in a game with standing room only that had the crowd going crazy in a back and forth game that went down to the buzzer
20. Illinois Pride 2027- Came and won Mini- Nationals and proved they are to reckoned with, will they be at Nationals  Next week to get that match-up with Demons?
21. Illinois Fierce 2027- Looking forward to seeing how they show next weekend.
22.  94ft 2025-  A tough weekend at Gatorade we will see how they respond  at Elite 8 Battle For The Crown. They will play with a purpose.
23.  Team Rose 2025- A team that can score the ball as good as any when they are hot from deep.
24. Ballers 2025- Always a tough out, the group plays with heart.
25. FVV 2026- The group is pretty good, but are they trying to be tested?
26. Midwest Thunder 2025- A talented group when all are there..They Have Size, Shooting and athletes. Central Illinois is well represented with these kids
27. West Suburban Elite 2029- They are newly formed and putting in work.  Gerry Cocroft III is a scoring machine.
28. Chitown Ballers 2026- They are tough they play hard. Fiesty and Hard Nose. If you play them, you will know you in a game.
29.  Hoopforce 2027- This is surely a group who plays for each other.
30.  Dream Chasers 2028-  lacking in size, they have ball pressure and defensive intensity.
31. Geek Squad 2028- Played well is spurts this weekend. Jojo is a Force!!
32. Swinnie 2027-   If They only had a true big in the post!!!!
33.  Bulldogs 2026 National-  Looking to gain their respect in the class, the group will be on a mission at the Elite 8 Battle 4 The Crown!!! Aug 22nd.
34. Illinois Ice Carolina 2026- The group is battled tested, having placed at several big time tournaments. Coach Davis is one of the best at getting the most out of his guys.
35.  Midwest Thunder 2028- The group has a couple feisty guards and they play full court pressure defense. The Jones  Duo of Kumasi Jr, & Kshaun are tough and they will definitely be in the updated class rankings when they come out!!! Aug. 26th
36. DreamChasers 2027- A group that’s finding it’s way.
37. Illinois Hoopstars 2028-  Won The gold this past weekend in dramatic fashion. WoW. What a game!! 
38. Limitless 2026- When everyone is there, they are tough little group. Oscar is lights out shooter.
39. Powerhouse 2028- A progressing team with a couple of nice pieces.
40. Focus 2028- They use ball movement and teamwork, as the get adjusted to speed and aggressiveness of teams above, they will become more of a problem.

Ricky Moore 773 383-0972

8/10

Top 40 Shooters Regardless of Class

1. Emmanuel Mosley 2025
2. Amari Edwards 2025
3. Noah Gorman 2025
4. Anestis Hadjistamalou 2025
5. Domas Narcevicus 2025
6. Devin Cleveland 2027
7. Rocco Pagliocca 2026
8. Panayiotis Sotos 2026
9. Christian Cummings 2025
10. Derek Bishop 2025
11. Makai Harris 2025
12. Mike Oliver Jr. 2026
13. Donovan Williams 2026
14. Jamari Fears 2027
15. Ian Peters 2025
16. Jameson Coulter 2026
17.  Jeremiah Fears 2025
18. Ethan Vahl 2028
19. Brady Selhourst 2025
20. Marshawn Cocroft 2026
21. Larry Brown 2025
22. Christian Giles 2026
23. Amari Brown 2028
24. Oliver Gray 2026
25. Jayden McDonald 2027
26. Keshaun Vival 2025
27. Edwin Karnauchovas 2028
28. Theo Rocca 2025
29. Joshua Malauchinus 2027
30. John Daffenberg 2025
31. Jamir Ratliff 2026
32. Jordan Walker 2026
33. Landon Reiner 2028
34. Victor Norris 2027
35. E.J. Breland 2025
36. Amare Pryor 2026
37. Uriah Davis 2027
38. Zach Mikrut 2025
39. Isaiah Whitehead 2026
40. James Price 2028

 

 

Stock Risers

Wait Wait Wait!!!!! We have a prospect alert. Here is a young kid whose just beginning to scratch the surface. Young Fella is a throwback down low post player who can control the paint. Landon has nice footwork, nice touch from 15ft plus and he is a monster on the glass. When young fella realizes just how dominant  he can be, people in the class better look out. Here is a kid who If I’m coaching I’m yelling ” Throw Him The Ball”  Landon can be a problem for teams. No Doubt About it. He  will enter our updated class rankings coming out next week rather high and here is a kid with so much upside. A kid capable of having double doubles every night. We hope to see young fella at the Top Prospect Showcase Aug. 21st where many of the Top Players in Midwest will be in the building.

 

Tony Bradford 2026 – Here is a combo guard who plays with a flare, last week I caught his games and as soon as he got the ball you could tell he was different. He has tools that many in the class don’t possess. He has that swagger with the ball in his hands like he knows he can play AND YES SIRRRRR HE CAN! Young Fella can shoot it from deep, he has a slick handle that allows his to get past his man at will, he uses change of speeds well and he has the frame where he can absorb contact and finish in traffic… Yes Indeed!! in a class that’s lacking a lot of depth we have found another prospect. Central Illinois always is stacked with talent. Peoria, Danville, Springfield, Bloomington, Decatur, Champaign. Well let it be known young fella will eneter the updated Class Rankings when they are released and we expect Tony Bradford in the building @ Top Prospect Showcase Aug 21st. As many of the elite in Midwest will be in the building.

 

Yes Sirrrr!!!!! We got another one, over looked smooth guard who really don’t know how good he can be. As I have watched young fella over the years I always thought he was a 2025, well I know it officially now. This is one of those kids I say ” IF I HAD HIM!!!” man he checks all the boxes, has the elusive handle in traffic, the vision and see’s over smaller guards, the poise in pressure situations, the willingness and unselfishness to play with others and not make anything about him and the talent level of a kid 2 years his superior. HE DON”T EVEN KNOW HOW GOOD HE IS!!! or the potential he possesses, he is just the kid playing the game out of PURE LOVE!!!  while many out here have been talked about, here is a kid who will surpass many of his classmates, here is a kid High School coaches will be drooling over and a get who will make his debut in our next updated 2026 Class ranking rather high. Yes Indeed!!! young fella has game, and we expect him in the building August 21st @ Top Prospect Showcase where many of the elite prospects and all the coaches will be in the building.

 

 

 

Young Fella in the last 9 months had been on a tear, he destroyed every guard put in front of him @ Top Prospect Showcase in route to leading his team to championship. 37 of the Top 50 were in the building and over 63 players in Top 100. Young fella and his back court mate Yaris put on a show and had the crowd buzzing. Young Fella left as Top 3 pt Shooter but very well could have been named MVP.  Then he kept his momentum going playing in the Fall league where I witnessed him go for 30 several times and then witnessed young fella in the Winter League playing for the Storm Gang!!  put on one of the best performances of the year. Standing Room Only Championship!! Young fella Yes Suhh Yes Suhh!!! showed everyone in the building he was to be reckoned with and is a Stone blooded killer in Middle school he keep his defenders of balance scoring that thang with ease using his crafty dribbling and change of speed, then he showed his vision dropping Jason Kidd passes through traffic, only to end the game with his 3pt barrage and game winning free-throws that had the crowd going crazy. I’ve witnessed the growth in young fella for the last 4 years. Coming From unheralded and undervalued by some, young fella didnt get discouraged. He got in the gym and got better. Now he is one of the more skilled guards in the class. make No Mistake about it Mikai Harris Stock is definitely on the rise.

Please somebody tell me where this kid been, he is long, ultra athletic, plays with a motor and is relentless in attacking the basket. Standing 6/2 and looking like there is a lot of looseness in them limbs to grow, here is a kid that has an upside. Right now he plays more inside in Middle School but his body speaks well for down the line. I Witnessed young fella consistently take his man off the dribble and finish through contact this past weekend. Make no mistake about it when updated ranking are released young fella will be in there. Also look for Marquise @ The Top Prospect Showcase August 21st. Young Fella is ready to make a statement as many of the Top Players From Midwest will be in the building.

All young fella does is consistently put in work. As a 7th grade young fella was knocking down shots for one of best Middle School teams in the state that had a returning squad full of 8th graders. Yepp!! he won several games with his shooting and even walked away as MVP . Now fast forward and this year young fella has been out here putting up numbers as if he playing a video game, going for 30’s and 40’s, Yep young fella is the kid who knows how to get his looks what he lacks in size he makes up for with his Basketball IQ. Young Fella has been consistently one of the Top 3 Shooters in the class(I’ve watched over 100 games of this kid & I’ve never seen him miss 3 in a row) he along with Emmanuel Mosley are the two I would want shooting my game winning shot no doubt about it.  Now add to the fact he is a gym rat & has  improved his decision making and his ability to handle the ball under pressure and you have a guard that has all the tools to transition to the next level. Young Fella is a kid who because of his special shooting skill will always find a place to play. Say what ay want, but young fella has been a Baby Faced Assassin out here putting numbers on peoples heads. Amari Edwards  Stock is on the rise.

 

 

Well I know one thing If I’m coaching this group, I know one thing when I walk in the gym no matter who I’m playing, I feel I’m good, we gonna win that match-up. Yes Suhhhh!! Team Rose done pulled a Whammy and got a collection of kids that fit together like a glove in hand Jeremiah, Keshaun & Elijah are straight killa’s on the court and they mesh well together. Jeremiah Fears who has been destroying people for years, giving 8th graders 30 when he was in 6th grade has always been the kid to play with an edge, come out kill his man and try to take over from the onset. I’ve witnessed his growth as now he knows he’s good he is not out here playing to prove something he’s letting his game come to him, he is equally happy if Elijah or Keshaun have it going, he showed the ability to score and facilitate and be a focal leader, Keshaun Vival who is known for going on scoring barrages of 20 in a half is the knock from deep wing, who is fearless and never afraid to take a big shot. Young Fella has been giving class of 2024 problems for years check my past articles, Elijah Daugherty is the tough combo guard who is savvy with ball in his hands, getting in the lane causing havoc, he has the ability to break down and dish or strength to finish in traffic and can put the clamps on the opposing teams best wing . Young Fella been putting in work up there in Rockford for years (I wrote an article on him back in Jan. he never sent the pic) Yes Indeed These guys are tough and from the looks of things this past weekend they enjoy playing with each other.. 3 Top 25 Guards on one team is tough. They will go into this weekend my Number 2 backcourt pound for pound. Now that the target is on their back lets see how they do.

Ricky Moore 773 383-0972

Top 25 Backcourts Regardless of Class

1. Mac Irvin Fire 2025 – Tough as nails DeMarjay Richardson & Christian Cummings are gamers, DeMarjay locks up and leads, Christian Cummings is best scorer in class, that also locks up. Both guards rebound amongst the bigs, they both play in the paint and they are the toughest competing guards in Middle School.
2. Team Rose 2025 – Elijah, Keshaun and Jeremiah are tough, is a showdown with Meanstreets coming this weekend? Will be interesting if that happens.
3. Meanstreets 2025 – The group has a very talented group Robert Walls has more in his bag!!!
4. Flight 2027- The group is a guard oriented team with 5 guards on the floor, their backcourt consist of all kinds of combinations that are good. Mike Pierre, Travis Brown Jr. Jaxson Davis, Davion Thompson, Dereon Smothers, AJ Rayford, K.J Miller.  The group is loaded.
5. Kessel Heat 2025- Maaaannnnnn they good,and can shoot that thang. Derek Bishop for 29 & 35 and he locks up too.
6. Hoopstars 2025-  Anestis, Nano, Rodriquez all compliment each other well and are battle tested, the whole is greater than its parts.
7. RTG 2028- they got something going over there, Darius, Kentrell, Deon, Shane & BJ.  them lil dudes stay in the gym and are getting better and better.
8. OWB 2026 – Jameson is a stud and people will get to know the name Jayden Williams. Mark my word young fella on his way..
9. Da Future 2026-  Led by Biggest Stock Riser Jamrion Raines, the group with Kyshaun & Bobby are as tough as anyone in the class.
10. DreamChasers 2025 – When healthy, this group of guards been getting it done for a long time, small in stature big in heart and will.
11. Indy Premiere 2026- They are deep at the position, Bryce Peters playing well of late.
12. Dreamchasers 2028 – One of the best out here, Winchester, Brown & Walker are nice.
13.  Peoria Pride 2028 – They have some hitters no doubt about it and remember I told you that. It’s Real June 26/27
14. Fierce 2027 – These lil dudes apply pressure and swarm like Bees. The outside shooting of Jayden & Jakob just makes it that much easier.
15. Mac Irvin Fire 2026-  The group of Marquis, Nas, Mister are on a mission, can they jell and get it going?
16. Meanstreets 2029 – The guards here are tough and they are deep, it doesnt matter which of the 4 are out there they tough.
17. My Journey 2025 – The group is deep and talented, The shooting of Mosley Stands Out!!!
18. Team Gevyi 2026- One thing they not lacking is guard play
19. Geek Squad 2025 – Their backcourt has probably the grittiest two guard combination of anyone, they are toughest as nails and their play in traffic is second to none.
20. Flight 2028- Brady & Ethan form a deadly combo at the guard positions.
21.  Hoopademix 2028 – People will get to know this group down the road Tyson Hooks, young fella is all over the court. He leads a group that up and coming.
22. EZ Work 2025-  Marcus & Syncere shoot it from deep, Barack & Isaias are guys that attack the rack.
23.  Illinois Swish 2025 – Hernandez & Calvin play up a lot so many sleep on them, but this is a tandom that people will be talking about for  years to come.
24. Swinnie 2027 – They may not have size, but the talent at the guard position for this team is there, the backcourt is tough.
25. HoopsAve 2025 – When looking for ball movement and knockdown shooters, let it be known this backcourt has that.

Stock Risers

 

Stock Risers

 

Here is a player who is fearless and thrives under pressure, I’ve watched young fella knock down some clutch shots of late and I’ve witness him hit some of the toughest long distance shots. Young Fella is one of those players who will fool you with his baby face looks. Let it Be Known Right Now!!! Get to know the name Oliver Gray 2026 young fella is a player and his Stock Is Rising. In our next update look for the name because it will definitely be in there. This kid puts relentless pressure on opposing defenses as he’s capable of putting the ball in the hole quickly.

 

Nathaniel Marshall – 2025 – Young Fella is nimble on his feet, has footwork in the paint and a motor that makes him relentless on the boards, having just saw Nate up close he has grown a couple more inches and thus has taken over the spot of Top Post Player In 2025 @ this moment. Young Fella has game and his pedigree only makes him that much more of an intriguing prospect. ” Yep It’s In His Blood. We look forward to watching young fella this summer and expect him to show everybody in attendance @ Top Prospect Showcase Aug 21st. That he is that dude.

 

 

Young Fella showed he can shoot it, rebound, score in traffic and never seems to be in a rush no matter how hectic things around him are. Vito Rocca 2027 has a lot of game and is a prospect who shows upside. Make no mistake about it when updated rankings are released you will definitely see the name. Young Fella is an April Stock Riser and a player we look forward to watching play in the future.

Yes Suhhhhhhhhhh!!! here is one of the long slithery guards who has the ability to get where he wants on the floor with the ball, the kid who has the moves to make his defender slide across the floor. The kid who makes the crowd go “uwwwwwww did he just do that boy like that?” Phoenix Fisher 2027 is a problem on the offensive end, his long range shooting and handle are right up there with the elite in his class. Look for young fella to make his way into the updated class rankings when they are released. Also we expect to see young fella @ The Top Prospect Showcase Aug. 21st where many of the elite players in the midwest will be in attendance..

Promising Prospect # 44

“The Table Setter”

Ok All The Kids Are lined up 50 of the elite prospects. My First Pick, Give Me Him( everyone looks around puzzled and confused, but not knowing what I’m knowing) who Rykan? yep that’s my pick. Rykan Woo is a coaches dream. He plays the game with and understanding second to none in Middle School, he will do whatever a coach needs to get the win and he is the Ultimate Table Setter!! There are no better guards in Middle school at getting in the paint and causing havoc. Young Fella is the guard who can get the old school assist, he gets around his man off the dribble, defender steps up and he spoon feeds the bigs!! ,Yep He is a ” Table Setter” young fella is  the kid who understands how to set up his shooters with the subtle movement and then cross court a pass-through traffic for the easy shot. He’s is the kid when the coach instructs him to do something all you hear is Yes Sir Coach!! while there are many kids who can play, there aren’t many who make players better.  I’ve witnessed none better over the course of 2 years lead a team to as many wins or keep his team in contention as an underdog as Rykan, This past weekend I watched young fella lead his team to a NY2LA CO- Championship as they beat several teams including Indy Premiere where no one thought they had a chance. I got text after text and call after call saying. “: Man You Was Right, That Rykan A MF” all I said was yep I told he can play. The qualities he possess are all things that speak well down the line, add the fact that he is one of the best on ball defenders at his position in the class and you have a player. As I’ve told many people in Area, I think the class is a little down, there aren’t many who I would want on my team, but I know one thing I’m starting my team with Rykan Woo ” The Table Setter” Because I know one thing, he will do everything possible to get the win and he the ultimate teammate he wants all to succed. there have been times where he may have sat on the bench for various reasons unwarranted, but he never sat and sulked, he never complained, he cheered and rooted his teammates on. Game Recognize Game and young fella has it, it’s not where you’re from, who you play with, who you know that makes me say a player is good, it’s you game and impact on the floor. So Again If I have first pick give me Rykan Woo because he will make all the players around him better and they will all go through a wall for him and want to play with him. We would like to recognize Rykan Woo as our Promising Prospect #43 The Table Setter”

Ricky Moore 4/5

773 383-0972

Promising Prospect #43

” He Something Different “

Maaaan if you haven’t seen Jaxson Davis 2027 you are missing a treat, I rarely write a Promising Prospect Article about a kid in 6th Grade. I wrote one for Amari Bailey, Patrick Baldwin, this early and that’s saying something yep ” He Is Something Different”. Young Fella is a poised combo guard who has been on the scene having equal success playing up a grade or two. He was the man in control of our past pound for pound number 1 team 2026 Illinois Ice who had won everything locally for 3 years and competed nationally very well. Young Fella has some Jalen Brunson( Dallas Mavericks) in his game. I”m not saying he is a pro, all I’m saying is at this stage he has the similar type qualities and impact as the former McDonalds All American. It’s remarkable how a kid so young can play with so much poise. He is a knock down shooter, a crafty ball handler who gets in the lane with his change of pace and he is as clutch as they come at the free-throw line under pressure. I have never with my own eyes seen this kid miss a free and I’ve seen this kid play over 50 games yep ” He Is Something Different”. A couple of weeks ago at National Tournament young fella poured in 51 in a highly contested game & believe me he was very efficient as young fella is very unselfish and looks for his teammates, I’ve never seen him force shots. You can Mark it down right now D-1 barring some sort of injury or illness. Yes I said it, and he is in 6th Grade. Yea for a guard that small it’s very rare to make a statement like that, but young fella has that ” Special In Him” right now he is clearly a top 3 guard prospect regardless of class and currently rated our number 2 prospect in the class of 2027. We would like to scknowledge Jaxson Davis as our Promising Prospect # 43 “He Is Something Different”

Ricky Moore 773 383-0972

4/5

Promising Prospect # 42

” Silent Killer“

Sometimes you see a kid and say ” He Fits The Bill ” Yep Young fella is a kid you look at and say ” Next Level” I watched Melvin Bell ” Silent Killer”  tear up the youth league while in 7th grade playing up a grade against several of the premier 8th grade AAU teams last year. I said ” Young Fella Is NIIIIIIIICE”  too coach Tommie  look “you got one of them dudes!! ain’t too many better than that”.. Melvin was controlling the pg and getting anywhere he wanted on the floor and he did it effortlessly he was destroying opponents without saying a word. Fast forward to this year and I see young fella has grown like 5 inches and filling out I said Whoa!! young fella has gone from being nice to one of the Top Prospects in the class. I watched Melvin hit 4 consecutive 3’s in Championship game in Indiana, after watching young fella finish at the rim in traffic several times the game before while others were talking trash, young fella let his game do the talking. Then The following week he showed he was virtually un-guardable as he shoot over the lil guards, went around the slower wings and had counter dribble moves against the long and athletic wings giving them people a quick 20 without a sweat. I said here is a kid who will enter high school and play Varsity Day 1. This is a kid 2-3 years from now you will see finishing plays on people’s head, a kid who blends ability to play 3 positions on the floor and a kid who appears to have room for several more inches of growth.. This is a kid while others are peaking out, he is exploding upward with a ceiling that not too many in his class have. Young Fella is currently rated a Top 5  Prospect in 2025 class rankings and could very well be the most sought after prospect in his class when it’s all said and done. This Ultra-Smooth Combo Guard is the Truth and has been giving teams problems, while all the kids are chirping and looking for attention, young fella is in the gym getting better. I know one thing, he doesnt talk trash with his mouth, he talks trash with his game young fella is a Killa on the court and we would like to acknowledge Melvin Bell as our Promising Prospect # 42 “Silent Killer”.

Ricky Moore 773 383-0972

 

4/4

Preseason Awards Regardless Of Class

1st Team

Bryce Heard 2025- Player Of The Year

Brady Pettigrew 2028

Christian Cummings 2025

Yaris Irby 2025

Derek Bishop 2025

Tim Winkler 2026

Camron Riggs 2027

Davion Thompson 2027

Jaivyn Winchester 2028

2nd Team

Nathaniel Marshall 2025

Jaxson Davis 2027

Darius Hawkins 2028

Rico Coleman 2028

Melvin Bell 2025

De Marjay Richardson 2025

Anestis Hadjistamoulou 2025

Devin Cleveland 2027

Antonio Munoz 2025

3rd Team

Kentrell King Jr. 2028

Nas Rankin 2026

Noah Mister 2026

Ashton Flowers 2026

Mikai Harris 2025

Jaxson Hupp 2025

Larry Harris  2026

EJ Breland 2025

Amari Brown 2028

4th Team

Uriah Davis 2027

Emmanuel Mosley  2025

Derrion Wallace 2027

Jah’Mir Brown 2026

Nathan Nano 2025

Fernando Rodriguez 2025

Amari Edwards 2025

Angelo Adams 2028

Ian Miletic 2025

Jonas Johnson 2025

 

Top 3pt Shooters

Noah Gorman 2025

Amari Edwards 2025

Amari Brown 2028

Jeremiah Fears 2025

Christian Cummings 2025

Ethan Vahl 2028

Mikai Harris 2025

Emmanuel Mosley 2025

Brady Selhourst 2025

Anestis Hadjustamolou 2025

Jamarri Fears 2027

Jaxson Davis 2027

Top Scoring Pgs

Jeremiah Fears 2025

Jordan Walker 2026

Jaxson Davis 2027

Yaris Irby 2025

Ashton Flowers 2026

Elijah Lovesmore 2025

Keshaun Vival 2025

 

Top Finishers

Antonio Munoz 2025

Bryce Heard 2025

Yaris Irby 2025

Bruce Sanford 2025

Donovan Star 2025

Jamson Coulter 2026

Nas Rankin 2026

Shane Lunsford 2028

Top Playmakers

Darius Hawkins 2028

Jaivyn Winchester 2028

Derek Bishop 2025

Amarion Holley-Smith 2028

Melvin Bell 2025

Yaris Irby 2025

Rykan Woo 2026

Rajaun Roberts 2026

Christian Cummings  2025

Top Pure Pgs

Nathan Nano 2025

Mikai Kwame 2025

Chris Thomas 2025

Noah Mister 2026

Torrence Tate 2026

Marquis Clark ( 2026)

Bryce Cooper 2026

Top Impact The Win Kids

Zerrick Johnson 2025

DeMarjay Richardson 2025

Amari Edwards 2025

Brady Pettigrew 2028

Tim Winkler 2026

Travis Brown 2027

Blaise Lavista 2026

Howard Williams 2026

Larry Harris 2026

Elijah Embry 2025

Darius Hawkins 2028

Top Rebounders 

Rico Delassandro 2026

Elijah Embry 2025

Nathaniel Marshall 2025

Jovarion Wilson 2027

Dalton Scattlebury

Larry Harris 2026

Mustaf Rexhepi 2026

Cole Kelly 2028

Martin Rhyne 2025

Top Defenders

Travis Brown Jr. 2027

DeMarjay Richardson 2025

Robert Walls 2025

Zerrick Johnson 2025

Above The Rim Finishers.

1. Antonio Munoz
2. Caleb Lindsey
3. Melvin Bell
4. Naveah Hawkins
5. Anthony Holmes

They Play With A Flare ( passes and slick handle)

Edwin Karnauchovus 2028

Rajuan Roberts 2026

Eyze Nwagu 2028

Travis Martin 2028

Chris Thomas 2025

Marshawn Cocroft

Amare Pryor 2026

Ed Williams 2027

Asa Harris 2027

Ny Wright 2027

EJ Moseley 2025

Jamier Montgomery ( 2027)

Top Clutch Shooters

EJ  Mosley 2025

Devin Cleveland 2027

Anestis Hadjistamalou 2025

Panayiotis Sotos 2026

Amari Edwards 2025

Jeremiah Fears 2025

They Have The Upside!!

Kassidy Nelson 2026

Antonio Munoz 2025

Cameron Riggs 2027

Patrick Irvin Jr. 2026

Rico Coleman 2028

Metrell Habin 2026

Blake Williams 2028

Bryce Heard 2025

Tim Winkler 2026

Melvin Bell 2025

Jaxson Davis 2027

 

Top Glue Guys ( Straight Team Players Do Everything Needed)

Jacob Rice ( 2025)

Mike Pierre ( 2027)

Blake McPhearson ( 2027)

Marcus Gordon ( 2028)

Rashaun Porter ( 2026)

Davion Stanley ( 2028)

 

 

 

Promising Prospect # 38

” By Leaps & Bounds “

There is a kid whose game has grown so much as a player in the past year it’s crazy, I mean his game has expanded “By Leaps & Bounds” a kid who played in my league over a year ago whom I said ” He Has A Chance, He Has The Right Tools!!” yet young fella didn’t seem to have the desire, or assertiveness I knew he needed. Young Fella was teasing me with one or two moves a game and that would be it. I watched several games where he just ran up and down the floor and was a non factor on both ends, yes he looked the part but wasn’t living up too what ” I Knew He could Be” Our rankings came out I had young fella in the mid 30’s people would ask me, is he a 30’s player? I would say no he can be as good as everyone in the class  he is a Top 5 talent in the class, but this will motivate him, I’m Not Giving Him Anything, He Will Earn It With His Play..  I never mentioned that to young fella ,” I said it too a couple of coaches and shoe company affiliated AAU Coaches When They Asked. I told them that number aint accurate he is the player you need”. The Funny thing is Morez never took it as slight, he was honored too be on the list of 250 kids. Young fella used it as motivation and as a tool of   ” I’ll Get Better & has young fella been on a mission, every month he was in the gym getting better and adding to his game. He has gone from a big kid who could run the court and use his length on defense too a kid who can shoot it from deep, take his man off the dribble, score in traffic, defend the post, brings the ball up the court in transition and can either dish it off too a teammate or ” PUT IT DOWN ON YOUR HEAD!!!” I’ve witness young fella climb the ladder in the rankings destroying any and everyone on the court, a kid whose confidence is through the roof and this after being on teams where he was either looked over or sat behind players. Young fella didn’t pout, he got in the gym and got better and is Jr. Hoops Elite Player Of The Year & now currently our #2 Player In The Class Of 2024. We would like to acknowledge Morez Johnson as Our Promising Prospect ” By Leaps & Bounds

Ricky Moore 773 383-0972

Promising Prospect # 37

” He Nice With It “

There is a player when I see him he makes me say ” He Nice With It!!” a player who has a much talent as anyone in the class, ” Yes Sirrrr, He One Of Them Dudes”  yet young fella is a team player and plays the game to win so sometimes to others it may look like he isn’t being dominant that just because he is so unselfish and isn’t out here forcing things or playing for the crowd he is mature in his game. Carlos Harris is a coaches  and teammates dream he is all about the team. I’ve watched young fella put on a show and carry his team to victories scoring 25 & 10 on numerous occasions in the games against the strongest competition, the bigger the game the better he plays, he’s not the kid to put up false numbers he is the kid who lets all his teammates eat and when its time to takeover he has that “it gene” to do just that yep ” He Nice With It!!. When I say multi- skilled Carlos fits the bill, he can shoot from deep, he can facilitate for others and he is the best finisher through contact in the Class Of 2024.  Young Fella is also a leader on the floor he knows how too put his teammates in position too succeed, he gives them confidence and I’ve yet to ever see him down on any of his teammates  even after a bad play he is always encouraging. This past weekend young fella was on full display including several games where it was  Standing Room Only Highly intense game with several of the elite players in the class, he left no doubt he is a Top Player In The Class and one of the kids that has my phone ringing off the hook, one of the kids that can lead to a program resurgence or turn around and  one of the kids who has D 1 talent. Jr Hoops Elite would like too acknowledge Carlos Harris Jr as our Promising Prospect ” 37″ ” He Nice With It.

Ricky Moore 773 383-0972

Promising Prospect # 36

” The Kid Is Special “

The average eye can’t see it, the normal basketball fan might miss it, but the people who know basketball will understand right away ” ” The Kid Is Special!!!” There is a player walking around right now who is unassuming, quiet and sometimes bashful. But the kid game is “ The Truth “ Introducing  !!Antione Glasper  remember the name the kid  has all the tools, he can shoot it from deep, finish in traffic, mid range game is off the charts, has a burst with the ball in his hands  like no other in the his class, vision top tier and has the combination of instinctiveness and  elusiveness that makes you say ” Damn, That Boy  Don’t Know What He Just Did”. All while moving effortless like it’s just a day at the office, I’m telling you ” The Kid Is Special” . What makes young fella that much more special is he has no selfish bone in his body and he has never been a me first kid, he is equally as happy if his teammates are doing well, even tho his talent maybe superior he never tries too overshadow anyone. I’ve witness Antione  score 30 in a game in spectacular fashion, I witness young fella make moves where he makes his defender fall and then knock the shot down making the packed gym crowd go crazy, I watched young fella in standing room only game hit the game winner as time expires and everyone storms the court,  I watched the kid make players 2 grade levels above look like 5th graders, Yep!! ” The Kid Is Special”. Guess what, not in one instance has he gloated, cheered, talked trash, or even made a kid feel inferior, hell I didn’t even see him smile he just walked off the court like ” Business as Usual. Here is a kid we say barring injury will be playing D 1 basketball in a few years, young fella is currently rated in our Top 5 Prospects Class Of 2024 We would like to acknowledge Antione Glasper as  Promising Prospect #36 ” The Kid Is Special” 

Ricky Moore 773 383-0972

.

” There Is Not One”

I don’t care who you have on your team, I don’t care where you are from, ” There’s Not One!!!! ” kid I would rather have shooting my ball in a clutch situation or game on the line than Mr. Emmanuel Mosley(2025) young fella is as clutch as they come. Last weekend young fella knocked down 2 game winning 3’s and led his team to the Final 4. A lot of people were amazed, but too me its been the norm, I’ve been watching young fella since I coached him in the showcase when he was in 5th Grade, I knew then, as he knocked down long range bombs and led us too a championship that this kid was a player. I said to myself ‘ Young Fella is going to be a problem when he gets older. EJ as known too many is a Quiet Assassin, young fella can run the pg spot as he has an exceptional IQ,  pinpoint passing and the ability to break his man down and spoon feed others  or young fella can slide over too the shooting guard and knock shots down with the best of them and create from the wing, here is a player a coach can use in a variety of ways. In an era where shooting is a premium he’s a very hot commodity.  I only trust so many people with the ball in their hands to make the right decision with the game on the line EJ is 1 of 6. There are also 3 kids I’d want taking the game winning 3 or the pressure shot with game on the line of which EJ is in that 3. So when you say clutch and trustworthy you get the point. If its a clear look and  game winning shot is being attempted if I had my money on the line “THERE”S NOT ONE!!!” I’d rather have shooting my ball in Middle School.

Ricky Moore 773 383-0972

7/21.

Poised & Polished

He’s been on the big floor, he’s played in pressure games, he’s heard the crowd, he’s knocked down the big shot, he’s made the extra pass, Yes Indeed!!! he’s a player. Introducing Jaedin Reyna whom I call Mr. Poised & Polished. If you watch young fella on the court you will see his skill level and understanding are very high. I’ve personally watched young fella take over a game in the crunch time and lead his team to victory scoring big buckets,  I watched young fella lock up on the defensive end and shut his man down on critical game deciding possessions. The old school people would say “He’s a Gamer” Young Fella is a player every coach would want on their team because he plays the game to win. I’ve watched young fella over the years play and I’ve never seen him change his facial expression or show his coach up he’s always been very coach-able and listened too his coaches. There is no doubt in my mind here is a kid who we predict will be seeing some varsity minutes in his initial year of high school. There aren’t many guards in his class 2024 that possesses his talent and skill level, look for Jaedin too make his debut in our updated class rankings 2024 next Monday and definitely some people will be moving over because young fella is Top 10 worthy no doubt. When you’re in a tight game and the pressure is on you want this kid because he is Poised & Polished.

Ricky Moore 773 383-0972

7/14