Future Elite All-American MS boys camp
By Robert Alfonso Jr.
Tampa, FL – The rising stars of tomorrow were on display in Florida a few weeks ago. These are players who went all out just before the start of the school year after working all summer to make a name for themselves.
We learned the talent pool in the Sunshine state is in good hands. These youngsters put on a show on both ends of the floor. Here are some players who made a notable splash.
Sebastien LeFranc | Tampa | 2028 was lights out from everywhere on the floor. It did not matter if he was playing 3-on-3 or in full court action, LeFranc was going to get buckets. The best part about his game was not just relying on trying to get to the basket or standing on the perimeter. He was mixing it up like a magician ready to unveil another trick. LeFranc’s shot selection and range was impressive for a young man his age. He played under tremendous control and poise. His development will be fun to watch for the next few years.
Ethan Mott | Jupiter | 2028 was impressive in so many ways. He is a long and wiry young man. His mobility and agility was so fluid for a player his age and length. Normally, those players are awkward but not Moot. He put the ball on the floor with comfort and showed off a strong feel for the game. His court awareness and IQ is that of a player working on every aspect of the game. There were a few times he finished above the rim with some dunks. They were clean and powerful. His time is coming because the basketball world will soon learn his name.
Raiden Burke | Tampa | 2028 is a shifty and smooth point guard. He is a pesky in your face defender. Opponents had a hard time getting by him a number of times, which resulted in him picking them off for easy buckets for himself or others. Burke attacks the rim always looking to make the correct play. He finished creatively through contact despite all the bumps absorbed. His feel for the game comes from being the youngest of a long line of hoopers in the family. They are constantly pouring into him and the young Burke is taking it all in like a sponge.
Brady Western | Palm Harbor | 2029 was one of the smallest players at camp but he played with a big heart. His no quit attitude helped him stand apart. He fought through screens while looking to get into the open space. Once he got open his decision making at that point was even bigger than him. Western found teammates or just took the shot given to him. He did not look to force shots. His shot form and release looked fluid. Western’s confidence exceeds his size as it also matches his heart.
Jaiden Martin | Tampa | 2028 is a flat out competitor. Wouldn’t be surprised if an X-ray was taken of his chest to only find the heart of a lion beating inside him. He refused to let up, which is rare to find in players this age. His desire to stop opponents and work them on both ends of the floor helped him standout. Offensively, Martin went just as hard. He displayed a variety of moves to get his shot off.
Joshua Oates | Dade City | 2028 is an intriguing post player. Sure, big men don’t necessarily look great in showcases equipped for guards. However, Oates made a point to standout. First, he was pulling down rebounds in traffic and out of his area. Oates not willing to let anything within reach get out of his area. When he was given the ball, Oates put together some moves that will certainly be polished over the next few years. His best game is ahead of him. He has conquered the hardest part which is wanting to do the dirty work. His workman’s mentality will carry him far.
Zion Poole | Clearwater | 2028 could easily be described as a utility guy. He was in every play possible on both ends of the floor. His desire to clean the glass was exceptional. He switched on various defenders and held his own defensively. Being able to score when a bucket was need in the 3-on-3 session was impressive too. His motor did not stop working. This will surely carry him a long way to a prosperous basketball journey.
Michael Sams III | Winter Haven | 2028 is an anomaly of player. In an era where young players have ballet in love with shooting three-pointers, he showed a textbook mid-range jumper during the 3-on-3 session. The quick release rarely missed. Being able to get the shot off is why defenders were off balance allowing him to get to the basket for easy buckets. Shooting the mid-range will help him in the long run as his body matures.
About the Author
Alfonso
Robert Alfonso Jr. is a graduate of Mount Sait Mary College. He has more than 20 years of journalism experience. Alfonso has helped build a basketball web brand in Georgia and has covered high school through college sports for publications in New York, North Carolina, and Georgia. His mission has always been to uplift the athletes who play sports providing them the exposure needed in this new media platform.