John Lucas Notebook: IMSC 2025 Houston, TX

John Lucas Notebook: IMSC 2025 Houston, TX

By Reg Burke

Houston, TX – The annual John Lucas IMSC in Houston, TX. Players came from all over the country to be apart of one of the top middle school showcases around. The legendary coach has always identified and challenged some of the best players in this middle school world.

This year’s camp was no different. Players came in looking to make an impact and prove they are one of one of the best players in their respective class. Here are some players who made an impression.

2030 | 6’0” G | Jordan Smith | Ontario, CA | ABA Academy 

Smith is the kind of player every coach loves: smart, reliable, unselfish, and deeply coachable. 

His understanding of basketball schemes gives him a head start over his peers. With a push to grow as a scorer and take more offensive initiative, he could round out as a strong prospect.

2029 | 6’0” G | Liam Henry | Marion, AZ | Marion Junior High

Liam Henry is already a bundle of scoring potential and confidence under pressure. To turn that into a higher level game, refining his 3-point shot and consistently locking into mental disciplines will be key. 

Looking for him to evolve from a dependable finisher into a dynamic, three level offensive playmaker.

20 30 | 6’1” SG | Olatunji Karimu | Hemsted, NY | Eagle Academy 

Karimu is a slasher with a bully mentality, using strength and aggression to set the tone. Once he figured out he could dominate being downhill, he was hard to defend. 

With improved shooting and court awareness, he can evolve into a more dynamic, 2-way SG who can consistently punish defenses off-the dribble and from the perimeter.

2030 | 6’2” SG | Julian “JJ” Smith Jr. | Waterbury, CT | Chase MS 

Smith stands out in the 2030 class as an explosive attack first guard, high-energy slasher and a versatile threat on both ends.

With continued skill refinement and expansion on his jumper look for Smith to make an impact in a few years.

2029 | 6’4” SG | Clifford “CJ” Brown II | Southfield, MI | Covington MS 

Brown, a promising 6’4″ SG caught my attention with his blend of size and skill. Brown effectively leverages his length and athleticism to gain an offensive edge.

His ability to slash to the basket is a notable strength, allowing him to penetrate defenses and create scoring opportunities in the paint. With his physical tools and developing skillset, he projects to be a special player as he progresses through his high school career. 

2030 | 5’8” PG James Rideau | Humble, TX | Wood Creek 

James Rideau stood out as the best point guard of the camp. A dynamic floor general with elite change of pace and direction, he creates separation and makes the game easier for teammates. 

His vision and ability to make plays in transition or in half-court makes him special. 

Rideau is a true playmaker with a bright future ahead.

2030 | 6’1” G Omar Muhammad | Fresno, CA | Reyburn MS

Omar Muhammad appears to be a high-potential prospect for the 2030 class. His natural talent and athleticism are obvious. 

The primary challenge for him right now is translating that raw ability into consistent performance. As he gains more experience, and perhaps with some coaching guidance on how to better leverage his skills, he is expected to develop into a phenomenal player.

2030 | 6’5” G/F | Matteus Tesch | Delray Beach, FL | Saint Jude Catholic School

Tesch is an intriguing prospect for the 2030 class with promising offensive potential, especially as a complementary player. His size for a guard is a significant at this point.

However, his defensive game, particularly off-ball defense and staying in front of quick guards, is a clear area that needs improvement. If he can develop his defensive consistency to match his offensive reliability, he has the potential to become a impactful player, especially as he physically matures into a small forward role.

2030 | 6’7” C Cannon Washington | Atlanta, GA | Landmark Christian School

A long, versatile big with the skill set of a modern power forward. Washington pairs his 6’7″ frame and a reliable jump shot, making him a matchup problem in spot-up and pick-role/pop actions.

Washington tends to defer rather than assert his strength advantage down low. Needs to consistently establish deep post position and finish through contact.

2029 | 6’8” F Nairobi Ebi | Los Angelas, CA | Harvard Westlake

Nairobi Ebi is a physically gifted prospect for the 2029 class with intriguing length and a natural scoring touch around the rim.  However, his current limitations lie in his assertiveness and confidence, particularly offensively. To reach his high potential, he must become more aggressive in attacking the basket, develop a more confident and consistent jump shot. 

Addressing these areas will be crucial for him to maximize his talent and become a dominant force on the wing. Ebi has the tools to be GREAT!

2029 | 6’1” G Micah Williams | San Antonio, TX | TMI

Micah Williams was solid in the  shooting category. As the son of Ex-NBA Coach Monty Williams who’s now at TMI Episcopal, he gains intelligence and shows much confidence. 

He can emerge as a complete guard impacting winning in many ways.

2030 | 6’5” C Jaiylen Ekanem | Brampton, ON | Uchenna Academy

Ekanem is an intriguing young big with natural size and developing instincts. While still growing into his frame, he flashes potential as a traditional post presence with room to expand his skill set.

Jaiylen Ekanem is a name to keep track of especially if he continues to grow and improves his assertiveness. If he commits to dominate the paint and becomes more vocal on the floor, he can be a sought out prospect.

2030 | 5’9” G Tristan Ariza | CA | Home School

Tristan Ariza is already showing signs of elite basketball instincts passed down from his father, Trevor Ariza ( NBA champion ). 

Though still developing physically, Tristan impresses me with his  approach to the game, shooting and scoring versatility plus a team-first mindset.

2030 | 6’4” G Isaiah Bridges | Highlands Christian | Ft Lauderdale, FL

Isaiah Bridges is a versatile and competitive young talent who thrives across multiple positions. With a strong physical frame and natural ability, he brings an edge to both ends of the floor. Watched him play full court multiple times due to his competitive nature. His favorite player, Magic Johnson, but polishing his decision making will be key in reaching his full potential.

If Isaiah can harness is mental and expand is focus, he projects as a big combo guard or utility wing. His ceiling will be unlocked when he learns to channel his fire.