Tip-Off Classic Notebook: 2024 Stock Riser Pt. 2
By Robert Alfonso Jr.
Suwanee, GA – The beauty of the Tip-Off Classic is getting a look at some players before they hit the NCAA Live Period in a few weeks.
Several players stood out propelling themselves into the spotlight based on their performances. These players stormed into Atlanta impacting winning. Here are some players you should track and keep an eye on this spring and summer.
Elijah Duval | 2024 | GA Stars | Martin County
Easily one of the most physical guards on the floor throughout the weekend. This floor general kept his foot on the gas. He established this physicality on both ends of the floor keeping opponents on their heels. Duval was shifty in tight spaces with an explosive first-step. His game resembles that of older brother and former Duke standout Trevon Duval.
Jesse “Yoshi” Nimmo | 2024 | AE5 | Geneva
A smooth shooitng 6-foot-6 combo guard is what college programs are looking to recruit from high school or the transfer portal. Nimmo extends the floor and defenders have to always know his whereabouts. There is going to be a weekend where Nimmo will be the hottest shooter in the gym.
Clark Mastin | 2024 | AE5 | Eagles Landing
An important skill for any point guard is executing in critcal moments and putting teammates in simple scoring positions. Mastin executed it many times throughout the weekend. His biggest pass was on the opening night delivering a dime to the corner for a three-pointer game winner. He never looked rattled against pressure or the big moments showing patience and calm running the team.
Sam Maynard | 2024 | Georgia Legacy | West Forsyth
If there is a picture of a hardworking player in the dictionary Maynard’s photo will be in the center of the definition. He does not know when to quit or slow down on either end of the floor. Maynard battles inside and has a nice looking mid range jumper. Possibly an undervalued part of his game is finding the weak spot in the defense for simple scoring opportunities. Blue collars will always find a space on the roster.
Paul Green | 2024 | AE5 | Sandy Creek
One of the least appreciated or talked about players in the state. Green has a good looking jumper. He is confident whenever when he puts it up. His ability to defend on the perimeter was fun to watch. This two-sport athlete has a big heart and is not afraid to compete. He is a right-handed pitcher and a speedy centerfielder, who has committed to play baseball at Missouri.
Tobyo Jukwu | 2024 | Atlanta Xpress | Norcross
The stoic look on Jukwu’s face occassionally turns into a smile once the game is in hand. Now, for more than 90 percent of the game, he is locked in ready to compete. Jukwu is calculated and knows when to smash the gas in transition or set the offense up. He sticks his nose on defense like a pitbull looking to mess up an offense. His toughness is something to admire.
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.