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Top Players from the Nike EYBL Peach Jam

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

North Augusta, SC – U17 DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

The Florida Rebels captured the 2026 Nike EYBL championship in dominant fashion, defeating Drive Nation 71-60 in the title game. Leading the charge was EYBL MVP Cayden Daughtry, who delivered one of the most memorable Peach Jam performances in recent memory with averages of 32.3 points, 6.1 assists, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.9 steals per game.

Drive Nation’s championship run was equally remarkable, advancing to the finals with only six players after losing top recruit Marcus Spears, who departed early to begin his college career at Texas.

U17 PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Cayden Daughtry | 6’1″ Point Guard | Florida Rebels Daughtry was simply unstoppable, scoring 30-plus points in seven of his eight game. His 43-point performance against the New York RENS in a triple-overtime thriller will be remembered for years to come, even in defeat. His consistency and clutch play throughout the tournament cemented his status as one of the elite guards in the country.

Beckham Black | Point Guard | AB Elite The consensus top prospect in the 2027 class lived up to the hype with an impressive Peach Jam showing, averaging 24.2 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game. His tournament-best 37-point explosion against Meanstreets out of Chicago showcased his scoring prowess. Black is strongly considering Georgetown, Texas, and Arkansas in his recruitment.

Troy Fason | 6’0″ Guard | New York RENS Fason’s performance exemplified the transformative power of grassroots basketball. The previously under-the-radar guard burst onto the national scene with a breakout tournament, headlined by a 41-point eruption against the Florida Rebels that put college coaches on notice. He left Peach Jam with multiple scholarship offers from quality programs including Dayton and South Florida. Fason is a name to watch closely throughout the 2026-27 season, with the possibility of reclassifying to attend college this upcoming year.

AJ Williams | 6’7″ Guard | CP3 The top prospect in the 2028 class continued to validate his ranking, averaging 23 points and 8.2 rebounds across five games. His 31-point performance in the quarterfinals against the eventual champion Florida Rebels was impressive, though not enough to advance. Williams is currently being recruited by Duke, Alabama, Auburn, Florida State, Georgia, Georgia Tech, and several other high-major programs.

Lewis Uvwo | 6’11” Center | Nightrydas Uvwo established himself as the premier big man at Peach Jam with his defensive dominance. While solid offensively with 11 points per game, his defensive impact—6 blocks and 9.4 rebounds per game—is what makes him a five-star prospect. He led the Nightrydas to the semifinals and is being recruited by Alabama, Arkansas, BYU, Baylor, Florida, and Kentucky. Uvwo is considered wide open in his recruitment.

Kager Knueppel | 6’8″ Forward | Team Herro One of the nation’s elite shooters, Knueppel showcased his range with an 8-three performance against the Florida Rebels. The younger brother of Charlotte Hornets forward Kon Knueppel has already committed to Duke, continuing the family legacy.

U16 DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

Team Final capped off a perfect season by defeating CP3 74-65 in the championship game, finishing an impressive 22-0 in the U16 division. Rowan Phillips, Ian and Carter Smith, Justin McKie, and Logan Chwastyk were instrumental in Team Final’s championship run.

U16 PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Bentley Lusakueno | 6’10” Center | CP3 A versatile big man who impacts both ends of the floor, Lusakueno averaged 12 points, 6 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game. His semifinal performance against AB Elite—21 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 blocks—was his signature moment of the event. He’s considered a top-10 prospect in the 2028 class.

Peter Julius | 6’10” Center | Georgia Stars An elite center for the Georgia Stars 16u squad, Julius dominated the paint with 16.2 points, 13.3 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game while shooting an efficient 60.9 percent from the field. His 21-point, 19-rebound performance against Brad Beal Elite was his tournament highlight.

JJ Crawford | 6’4″ Guard | NW Rotary The top prospect in the 2029 class, Crawford displayed remarkable efficiency in four games, averaging 16.5 points while shooting 54.1 percent from three and 52.1 percent from the field. His 26-point, 6-three performance against the Nightrydas was his best showing. Crawford is a prospect to monitor closely over the next two years.

Rowan Phillips | 6’6″ Guard | Team Final One of the top shooting guards in the 2028 class, Phillips was a key factor in Team Final’s EYBL 16u Peach Jam championship. Dynamic at getting to the basket and finishing strong, Phillips averaged 16.8 points and 3.3 rebounds during Peach Jam.

Benji Berrouet | 6’7″ Power Forward | AB Elite A double-double machine, Berrouet averaged 17 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 blocks per game. His 24-point, 16-rebound, 4-block performance against Vegas Elite showcased why he’s one of the top big men in the 2028 class. He led AB Elite to the 16u semifinals before falling to CP3. While he’ll be recruited by several schools, Texas and Houston appear to be early favorites.

This article was written by Andrew Keeling, a correspondent and scout forNetScouts Basketball. You can follow Drew on X @BBallScout2288

Top Performances from the FIBA U17 World Cup

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Istanbul, Turkiye – Following seven intense games of action in Istanbul, the FIBA U17 World Cup concluded with many elite prospects demonstrating highly scalable, transferable skill sets. Evaluating how these pieces project requires looking past raw production and focusing on structural floor geometry, deceleration windows, and defensive processing. By analyzing the film and technical mechanics of the tournament’s top performers, a clearer picture emerges of how their games might translate to higher levels of competition.

Team USA’s 6’11” center Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje was named the MVP of the tournament. The Duke recruit’s level of play scaled up with every passing round to anchor the USA’s gold medal run. Averaging 19.6 points and a tournament-leading 10.9 rebounds per game alongside 2.1 blocks, Boumtje Boumtje established himself as a violent glass cleaner with fundamentally sound box-outs. What makes his projection tantalizing is his internal and external versatility; along with punishing teams inside on putbacks, he flashed an elite shooting stroke by connecting on 53.1 percent of his triples and was highlighted by an overwhelming 31-point, 16-rebound performance against Puerto Rico.

Serbia’s 6’9″ forward Nikola Kusturica functioned as a premier modern two-way weapon, averaging 24.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 2.3 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game alongside a tournament-wide 24.7 efficiency rating. Utilizing his size, Kusturica applied suffocating on ball pressure defensively while demonstrating sharp weak side anticipation to block shots from the interior out to the perimeter line. Offensively, his explosive first step allowed him to win downhill reps or turn face-up out of the post, enabling him to shoot an elite 60.8 percent on two-point field goals. In the final against Team USA, he maintained high efficiency by aggressively drawing contact to get to the free-throw line 22 times, finishing with 37 points and making 17 free throws.

Türkiye’s 6’3″ point guard Omer Kutluay operated as the tournament’s premier offensive engine, finishing second in scoring with 28.4 points per game while comfortably leading the field with 9.0 assists and adding a solid 6.1 rebounds per game. Kutluay showed a masterclass in pacing and poise under heavy pressure, routinely manipulating defensive geometry out of primary actions. He consistently punished defensive hedges by making precise reads with skip passes or attacking downhill to force low-man rotations and create perimeter shooting space. His exceptional processing speed was on full display in a brilliant quarter-final performance against France, where he logged 30 points and 11 assists with remarkable finesse.

Puerto Rico’s 5’10” guard Dwight Gaines functioned as an absolute lightning bolt off the dribble and catch, averaging 25.9 points, 5.3 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game. Gaines weaponized elite foot speed to generate separation against longer, switchable defenders, making him incredibly tough to track through dribble handoffs and tight screen coverage. In the pick and roll, he masterfully utilized a stop-and-go change of pace, sealing the recovering defender on his back before decelerating into contact to draw and-one floaters. Defensively, his anticipation in passing lanes was predatory, leading the tournament with 4.9 steals per game, highlighted by a 36-point, 9-assist, 8-rebound, and 6-steal masterclass against Côte d’Ivoire.

New Zealand’s 6’4″ guard Jayden Cecil exploded as the tournament’s leading scorer, averaging 29.9 points along with 5.3 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game while shooting 38.3 percent from deep on high volume. Cecil possesses an elite downhill motor, consistently probing for micro-gaps in the defense where he can explode to the rim with balance. Defensively, he used highly active hands to generate deflections and spark transition opportunities. While he recorded a tournament-high 42 points in group play, his most scalable showing came in a more efficient, lower-volume 37-point performance against Serbia.

Türkiye’s 6’7″ forward Darius Karutasu, averaged 23.3 points and a second-best 10.9 rebounds per game while shooting 43.2 percent from beyond the arc. Karutasu stretched floor geometry as a textbook modern forward, utilizing a remarkably high release point that required minimal catching windows to get his shot off over contesting wings. When defenders over-closed, he showed the functional handle to put the ball on the floor, collapse the paint, and facilitate over the top to vertical lob threats, highlighted by a tournament career-high 37 points and 6 three pointers against New Zealand.

This article was written by Zeya Benitez of NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

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Top International Players Through the Round of 16 at the FIBA U17 World Cup

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Istanbul, Turkiye – The Round of 16 has been completed at the FIBA U17 World Cup, with several prospects consistently producing across multiple statistical categories while impacting the game in a variety of ways.

Leading the way is Türkiye’s 6’3″ point guard Omer Kutluay, who averaged 32.3 points per game in group play, leading the tournament in scoring, while also averaging 10.3 assists to lead the field. He has also added 7.7 rebounds per game, an impressive mark for a guard, showcasing his all-around impact on both ends of the floor through the first three games; Omer is currently averaging 28.0 points per game, third in the group, with 6.8 rebounds and 9.8 assists.

Second is his teammate, Türkiye’s 6’7″ forward Darius Karutasu, who averaged  27.0 points per game in group play, second in the tournament, along with 11.3 rebounds and 1.7 blocks during his first three games. Karutasu is an effective floor spacer who can attack closeouts, facilitate to lob threats, and create offense off the dribble. With his high release point, he needs very little space to get his shot off, making him a difficult matchup for defenders. Currently, Darius is averaging 26.5 points per game and 11.5 rebounds per game, number one in the group, and 2.8 assists per game and 3.3 steals.

For Canada, 6’5″ forward Isaiah Clarke averaged 14.7 points and 11.0 rebounds in group play, ranking second in the tournament in rebounding during the team’s first three games. His most notable performance came against China, where he recorded 19 points and 18 rebounds. Clarke consistently produces by utilizing his motor for putbacks, attacking downhill with physicality, and creating second-chance opportunities through his rebounding. Currently he’s averaging 11.8 points per game with 8.8 rebounds per game, ranked fourth in the tournament with 1.6 assists per game.

Another standout has been New Zealand’s 6’4″ guard Jayden Cecil, who exploded for a tournament-high 42 points. Cecil utilizes active hands to create extra possessions and attacks downhill with poise, consistently finding gaps in the defense to generate efficient scoring opportunities. He’s currently averaging 29.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.2 per gar game, leading the group in points.

Italy’s 6’6″ forward Simone Ventura, one of the tournament’s most efficient players, posting a 21.3 average efficiency rating while averaging 19.7 points and 1.3 assists per game during the group phase. Ventura relies more on skill than athleticism with a lean build, using polished footwork, patience, and touch around the basket to create scoring angles. He understands how to decelerate, can space the floor, attack from both the perimeter and the post, and manipulates defenders with deceptive movement. Defensively, he has also showcased timely help-side rotations and rim protection, displaying strong instincts as a weak-side shot blocker. Currently, Simone Ventura is averaging 16.0 points per game, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists.

Lastly, Serbia’s 6’8″ shooting guard Nikola Kusturica has functioned as a premier modern, three-and-D weapon. He showcased high-level consistency throughout the group phase, producing 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 2.3 steals, and 2.3 blocks per game alongside a 20.7 efficiency rating. Through the Round of 16, Nikola is averaging 22.0 points per game, ranked 6th in the tournament, 6.8 rebounds per game, and 2.8 assists per game. Utilizing his size, he creates effectively off the dribble while applying intense on-ball pressure defensively with active, disruptive hands. His sharp anticipation allows him to block shots anywhere from the interior to the perimeter, while his explosive first step allows him to excel going downhill or turning face-up out of the post. Kusturica’s immense two-way upside has projectable translation, directly fueling wins for his team so far.

This article was written by Zeya Benitez of NetScouts Basketball.

USA Tops World Team in OT Thriller at Nike Hoop Summit

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Portland, OR – The Nike Hoop Summit came to Portland, Oregon for the 16th time, and the 2026 Hoop Summit game was the best of them all. The USA topped the World Select Team 102-100 in overtime, the second straight OT win for the USA in the event.

The USA’s Brandon McCoy Jr. made two free throws with under a second remaining to send the game into overtime.  Caleb Gaskins made the key shot for the winners, a 3-pointer to put the USA up 99-97 with 1:36 left in the overtime. The World Team has chances to take the lead but an Adam Atamna 3-point attempt was off the mark and the USA closed the game at the free throw line. Statistically the game was very evenly played with neither team having a decided edge in any metric. There were 25 lead changes, 14 ties, and the 54 combined turnovers were a Hoop Summit record.

For the USA, Caleb Holt, Jordan Smith Jr., McCoy Jr. and Jason Crowe Jr. were the most impressive players in the game. Top-rated recruit Tyran Stokes did score 15 points but was limited by foul trouble before fouling out in the fourth quarter. He had only two rebounds and no assists while committing four turnovers.

Holt led the way for the USA, scoring 24 points on 4-of-9 from deep and added eight rebounds and seven steals while committing five turnovers. He had a +/- of +24 while he was on the court. The 6’5 Arizona commit was all over the court and played a team-high 33 minutes. He’ll play right away for the Wildcats and will likely be a high lottery pick in the 2027 NBA Draft.  The 6’2, 200-pound Smith Jr. will fit perfectly on John Calipari’s Arkansas team. He scored 13 points and added five rebounds over 25 minutes. Smith Jr. is strong, athletic, quick and can play both guard positions.

The 6’5 McCoy Jr., headed to national champion Michigan, can play a variety of positions from the 1 to the 3. He scored 11 points, including the two important free throws that sent the game to overtime and had a team-high five assists to go along with four steals. He’ll likely start in Ann Arbor and play several roles for the Wolverines. Crowe Jr. is a scorer and will do that at lot at Missouri. He scored 16 points on 5-of-11 shooting in 20 minutes of action.

Canadian point guard Miles Sadler led the way for the World Team. Sadler played a game-high 43 minutes, scoring 29 points on 10-of-18 shooting, 3-of-5 from deep. He added seven assists and two steals but committed a very high 11 turnovers. Sadler is small, likely about 5’10, although listed a 6’0 for the event. He can get past anyone, sees the court extremely well, but due to his size, has trouble converting at the rim and has navigating blitzes. He’ll be a starter immediately at West Virginia and will be exciting to watch.

7’0 Miikka Muurinen (Finland) played only 15 minutes, had 10 points with several impressive dunks and added eight rebounds. Obviously incredibly skilled, Muurinen will need to get stronger as well as understand his defensive role better as he moves forward in his career. Tonight his +/- was a game-worst -21. His next stop will likely be in college and if he is coachable and understands his defensive role better, will have a bright future.  Abdou Toure added 19 points (8-of-13 overall, 2-of-3 3s) with six rebounds and five blocks in 25 minutes. The 6’6 forward is extremely active, long and athletic and should be another perfect fit for an Arkansas team that plays his style.

All in all, it was another great week at the Nike Hoop Summit in Portland, one of the best basketball weeks of the season.

This article was written by Carl Berman, Managing Partner of NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

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Michigan Tops UConn 69–63 to Capture 2026 National Championship

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Indianapolis, IN – The 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament came to a thrilling conclusion at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, where the Michigan Wolverines outlasted the Connecticut Huskies 69–63 to claim their first national championship in over three decades. In a game that lived up to its billing, both teams traded blows for 40 minutes, but Michigan’s poise  and timely execution down the stretch proved to be the difference.

Junior guard Elliot Cadeau once again rose to the occasion, leading the Wolverines with 19 points and orchestrating the offense with the composure of a seasoned veteran. Cadeau’s ability to control tempo and make plays in key moments was instrumental in keeping UConn’s defense off balance. His leadership throughout the tournament had been a defining factor in Michigan’s run, and on the biggest stage, he delivered once more. Forward Morez Johnson provided the interior presence Michigan needed, recording a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. His physicality on the boards and defensive effort against UConn’s frontcourt helped the Wolverines withstand several second-half surges. Meanwhile, Yaxel Lendeborg, the team’s All-American forward, battled through ankle and knee injuries to contribute 13 points. Though not at full strength, Lendeborg’s toughness and ability to hit mid-range shots gave Michigan a crucial offensive boost.

For UConn, the loss ended their bid for a historic third national title in four years — a feat not accomplished since John Wooden’s UCLA dynasty of the 1970s. The Huskies entered the game with a chance to cement their place among college basketball’s modern powerhouses, but Michigan’s defensive discipline and rebounding edge proved too much to overcome. Alex Karaban led the Huskies with 17 points and 11 rebounds, showcasing his versatility and effort on both ends of the floor. Tarris Reed added 13 points and 14 rebounds, anchoring UConn’s interior attack and keeping them within striking distance throughout the contest. Braylon Mullins, who had been one of UConn’s most reliable perimeter threats all season, struggled to find his rhythm, finishing with 11 points on 4-of-17 shooting.

The game itself was a showcase of high-level basketball — physical, tactical, and filled with momentum swings. Neither team led by more than eight points at any stage, and the intensity never wavered. Michigan’s defense, which had been a hallmark of its tournament run, held UConn to just 39% shooting from the field and limited their transition opportunities. In the final minutes, Cadeau’s steady hand guided Michigan through the pressure. With the Wolverines clinging to a narrow lead, he hit a crucial pull-up jumper with just over a minute remaining, extending the margin to five. UConn had chances to respond, but Michigan’s defense forced contested shots and secured key rebounds.

When the final buzzer sounded, the Wolverines bench erupted, celebrating a long-awaited return to college basketball’s summit. The victory also marked a significant moment for the Big Ten Conference, which had endured a national title drought since Michigan State’s championship in 2000. For years, the league had produced strong team’s and deep tournament runs but had fallen short. Michigan’s triumph not only ended that streak but also reaffirmed the program’s place among the sport’s elite. As confetti rained down inside Lucas Oil Stadium,  coaches and players embraced, knowing they had etched their names into Michigan basketball history. The Wolverines’ blend of veteran leadership, defensive toughness, and unselfish play carried them through one of the most competitive tournaments in recent memory. For UConn, the loss was a bitter end to another remarkable season, but their sustained excellence over the past four years remains undeniable. For Michigan, it was a night of redemption and resilience,  

This article was written by Andrew Keeling of NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

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A Full Day of Hoops Glory at Gainbridge Fieldhouse 

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Indianapolis, IN – Indianapolis was the epicenter of college basketball excitement as Gainbridge Fieldhouse hosted a tripleheader of championship action — the NCAA Division II and III National Championship Games, followed by the NIT title game. Fans were treated to a marathon of emotion, intensity, and unforgettable performances that showcased the very best of college basketball. 

Division II National Championship: Gannon 84, Lander 61 

The day began with a statement victory from Gannon University, who captured their first-ever national title in commanding fashion, defeating Lander University 84–61. Sophomore guard Pace Prosser was the star of the show, delivering a dominant 28-point, 11-rebound performance that set the tone early. His energy and shot-making ability were unmatched, as he controlled the game from start to finish. Sekasi Lucas added 13 points and 6 rebounds, while Morgan Mackenzie and Morgan Lucas chipped in 12 and 11 points respectively, giving Gannon a balanced offensive attack. The Golden Knights’ defense was equally impressive, holding Lander to just 38% shooting from the field. 

For Lander, Dylan Canoville fought hard with 14 points and 10 rebounds, showing grit in the paint. Jacob Daniels added 11 points, and Greyson Pritzi contributed 6 rebounds, but the Bearcats couldn’t keep pace with Gannon’s relentless tempo. The win marked a historic moment for Gannon, as they lifted their first national championship trophy in program history. 

Division III National Championship: Mary Washington 75, Emory 73 

The second game of the day delivered pure March Madness drama. Mary Washington edged Emory University 75–73 on a buzzer-beater that sent their fans into a frenzy. The game was a back-and-forth battle, with neither team leading by more than six points in the second half. 

Kye Robinson was sensational, scoring 27 points and grabbing 8 rebounds while hitting clutch shots down the stretch. Jay Randall added 14 points, and Kaden Bates recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds, anchoring the Eagles on both ends. 

Emory’s Jair Knight and Ethan Fauss each scored 24 points, with Fauss connecting on six three-pointers to keep Emory within striking distance. Mario Awasum was a force on the glass, pulling down 19 rebounds to go with 9 points. However, Mary Washington’s defense was the difference, holding Emory’s leading scorer Ben Pearce to just 10 points on 1-for-8 shooting.

The game ended on a put-back of a Kye Robinson shot at the buzzer by Colin Mitchell. The victory gave Mary Washington a storybook ending to their season and a national title to remember. 

NIT Championship: Auburn 92, Tulsa 86 (OT) 

The nightcap was a thriller that capped off an unforgettable day. Auburn claimed the NIT Championship in overtime, outlasting a resilient Tulsa team that refused to quit. The Tigers built a commanding 21-point lead in the first half, only to see Tulsa storm back with a furious rally. Tulsa had a 3-point lead in the final seconds but couldn’t inbound the ball in time. Auburn cashed in with a Kevin Overton three-pointer to send the game into overtime. It was another situation where a team lost a game due to being unable to inbound the ball. 

In the end, Auburn’s depth and poise prevailed. Overton led the way with a spectacular 26-point performance, knocking down five three-pointers and delivering clutch baskets when his team needed them most. Tahaad Pettiford orchestrated the offense beautifully, finishing with 24 points and 8 assists, controlling the tempo in overtime. Keyshawn Hall was a force inside, recording a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds, while Elijah Freeman dominated the glass with 14 rebounds, giving Auburn crucial second-chance opportunities. Off the bench, Sebastian Williams-Adams provided a huge spark, scoring 13 points and bringing energy on both ends of the floor. 

Tulsa’s comeback effort was led by David Green, who poured in 25 points and grabbed 6 rebounds, showing tremendous leadership. However, Green shot only 1-of-7 on 3’s. Tyler Riley added 20 points, hitting big shots during the rally that brought the Golden Hurricane back into contention, while Ade Popoola chipped in 13 points with timely buckets in the second half. 

Despite Tulsa’s valiant effort, Auburn’s composure in overtime sealed the deal. The Tigers executed down the stretch, hitting free throws and making key defensive stops to secure the 89–84 victory. The win capped off a strong postseason run for Auburn, who showcased their resilience, depth, and championship mentality. 

From the opening tip of the Division II final to the final buzzer of the NIT overtime thriller, Gainbridge Fieldhouse delivered a day of basketball that fans will remember for years. Three championships, three unforgettable stories, and one incredible stage — Indianapolis once again proved why it’s one of the great basketball cities in America 

This article was written by Andrew Keeling and Carl Berman of NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

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Michigan, UConn Advance to NCAA Title Game

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Indianapolis, IN – The Final Four of the NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium delivered everything college basketball fans could hope for — intensity, star performances, and the promise of a heavyweight National Championship matchup. UConn and Michigan emerged victorious, each showcasing the balance, depth, and poise that define championship-caliber teams.

In the opener UConn’s pursuit of another national title continued with a hard-fought 71–62 win over Illinois. The Huskies, appearing in their third Final Four in four years, once again demonstrated why they’ve become the standard of consistency in college basketball. From the opening tip, UConn dictated the tempo, using its size and defensive discipline to limit Illinois’ transition opportunities. Tarris Reed Jr. was the anchor for the Huskies, delivering a commanding performance inside with 17 points and 11 rebounds. His presence on both ends of the floor set the tone, as he controlled the glass and provided timely scoring in the paint. Braylon Mullins, the sharpshooting guard, gave UConn a crucial perimeter boost, knocking down four three-pointers and finishing with 15 points. His ability to stretch the floor opened driving lanes for teammates and forced Illinois to adjust defensively. Solo Ball added 13 points, attacking the rim with confidence and providing steady playmaking throughout the game.

Despite UConn’s control, Illinois refused to fold. The Illini, led by freshman sensation Keaton Wagler, battled back multiple times to keep the game within reach. Wagler showcased his versatility and composure, scoring a team-high 20 points while grabbing 8 rebounds. His ability to create his own shot against UConn’s tough defense was impressive for a first-year player on such a big stage. Tomislav Ivisic added 16 points and 7 rebounds, using his size and touch around the basket to challenge UConn’s frontcourt. Andrej Stojakovic contributed 9 points and 8 rebounds, providing hustle plays and defensive effort that kept Illinois competitive. UConn’s defense, however, proved to be the difference. The Huskies held Illinois to under 40% shooting and limited the Ilini to only three assists in the game. They also forced key turnovers late in the second half. Every time Illinois threatened to close the gap, UConn responded with timely baskets or defensive stops. The Huskies’ experience in high-pressure moments showed, as they maintained composure and executed down the stretch. The win sends UConn back to the National Championship game for the third time in four years — a remarkable feat that underscores the program’s sustained excellence.

The second semifinal featured a surprising but emphatic result, as Michigan dominated Arizona 91–73 to earn its spot in the title game. From the opening minutes, the Wolverines played with confidence and precision, jumping out to an early lead and never relinquishing control. Aday Mara was the star of the night, delivering a near-perfect performance with 26 points and 9 rebounds. The 7-foot center was unstoppable in the paint, finishing through contact and controlling the boards. His footwork and touch around the rim gave Arizona’s defense fits all game long. Point guard Elliot Cadeau orchestrated the offense masterfully, finishing with 13 points and 10 assists. His court vision and pace kept Michigan’s offense flowing, and his ability to push the tempo created easy scoring opportunities in transition. All-American forward Yaxel Lendeborg, limited to 15 minutes due to an ankle injury, added 11 points, providing energy and defensive versatility that helped Michigan maintain its edge. Michigan’s offensive execution was nearly flawless. The Wolverines shot efficiently from the field, shared the ball unselfishly, and punished Arizona for every defensive lapse. Their spacing and ball movement created open looks, and their bench contributed valuable minutes to sustain the momentum.

For Arizona, the loss was a disappointing end to an otherwise strong season. Koa Peat led the Wildcats with 16 points and 11 rebounds but shot only 6-of-18 from the field. Brayden Burries and Jaden Bradley each scored 13 points, trying to keep Arizona within striking distance but Burries was an inefficient 4-of-16 from the field. Tobe Awaka added 8 points and 9 rebounds.

However, Arizona struggled to contain Michigan’s interior attack and couldn’t match the Wolverines’ pace. Michigan’s defense also deserves credit. The Wolverines limited Arizona’s perimeter shooting and forced them into contested mid-range attempts. Their ability to switch defensively and protect the rim disrupted Arizona’s rhythm, allowing Michigan to control the game from start to finish.

**Looking Ahead: UConn vs. Michigan – The National Championship**

The stage is now set for a thrilling National Championship matchup between UConn and Michigan — two programs with rich histories and elite talent. UConn brings experience, balance, and championship pedigree, while Michigan arrives with momentum and confidence after dismantling Arizona. The battle inside between Tarris Reed Jr. and Aday Mara promises to be a focal point, as both big men have been dominant throughout the tournament. The perimeter play — Mullins and Ball for UConn, Cadeau and Lendeborg for Michigan — will likely determine the tempo and flow of the game. With both teams peaking at the right time, the championship clash at Lucas Oil Stadium has all the makings of a classic — a fitting conclusion to a memorable college basketball season.

This article was written by Andrew Keeling, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

Tulsa and Auburn Advance to NIT Championship at Hinkle Fieldhouse 

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Indianapolis, IN – The storied Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis provided the perfect stage for an exciting night of college basketball as the National Invitation Tournament semifinals delivered two competitive matchups. Tulsa and Auburn emerged victorious, setting up a compelling championship showdown at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Sunday night. Both teams displayed grit, balance, and timely execution to earn their spots in the title game. 

Tulsa Edges New Mexico 74–69

The first semifinal featured a clash between Tulsa and New Mexico, two programs eager to cap their seasons with a postseason title. Tulsa, under the guidance of head coach Eric Konkol, executed a disciplined game plan to outlast the Lobos 74–69 in a contest that remained tight from start to finish. 

Tulsa’s balanced scoring attack proved to be the difference. Ade Popoola led the Golden Hurricane with 12 points and 6 rebounds, providing energy on both ends of the floor. Senior forward David Green delivered a steady performance with 13 points and 5 rebounds, using his experience to make key plays down the stretch. Miles Barnstable added 11 points, knocking down three crucial three-pointers that helped Tulsa maintain momentum whenever New Mexico threatened to rally. 

The Golden Hurricane’s defense also played a pivotal role, forcing New Mexico into tough shots and limiting their transition opportunities. Despite the Lobos’ efforts to push the pace, Tulsa’s composure and half-court execution allowed them to control the tempo late in the game. 

For New Mexico, freshman standout Jake Hall continued to show flashes of brilliance despite a difficult shooting night. Hall led all scorers with 20 points, attacking the rim relentlessly and keeping the Lobos within striking distance. Center JT Rock contributed 14 points and 6 rebounds, providing an interior presence that challenged Tulsa’s frontcourt. However, New Mexico’s inability to convert open looks in the final minutes proved costly, as Tulsa’s poise at the free-throw line sealed the victory. 

The win marked a significant moment for Tulsa, which has steadily improved throughout the season. Their ability to share the ball and rely on multiple contributors has made them a dangerous postseason team. With the victory, the Golden Hurricane advanced to their first NIT championship appearance in over a decade, setting up a matchup with a surging Auburn squad. 

Auburn Dominates Illinois State 88–66 to Punch Ticket to the Finals 

In the second semifinal, Auburn showcased its athleticism and offensive firepower in an 88–66 win over Illinois State. The Tigers, who endured an up-and-down regular season, appear to be peaking at the right time under head coach Steven Pearl. Their performance at Hinkle Fieldhouse was a statement of intent heading into the championship game. 

Keyshawn Hall led the way for Auburn with a commanding 24-point performance, attacking the basket with confidence and finishing through contact. His ability to create his own shot and draw fouls kept Illinois State’s defense on its heels. Kevin Overton provided a major spark from beyond the arc, hitting five three-pointers in scoring 16 points. His perimeter shooting stretched the Redbirds’ defense and opened driving lanes for his teammates. Guard Tahaad Pettiford added 12 points and 5 assists, orchestrating the offense with poise and precision. Auburn’s depth and defensive intensity overwhelmed Illinois State, forcing turnovers and converting them into transition points. The Tigers’ bench also contributed valuable minutes, maintaining energy and pressure throughout the game. 

Illinois State, despite the loss, showed resilience and flashes of offensive rhythm. Ty’Reek Coleman led the Redbirds with 17 points, displaying confidence as a freshman guard on a big stage. Chase Walker added 13 points and 7 rebounds, battling inside against Auburn’s athletic frontcourt. Ty Pence provided a lift off the bench with 13 points, but the Redbirds struggled to contain Auburn’s pace and shooting in the second half. 

Championship Showdown Set 

With Tulsa and Auburn advancing, Sunday night’s NIT Championship at Gainbridge Fieldhouse promises to be an intriguing matchup between two teams playing their best basketball of the season. Tulsa’s disciplined, team-oriented approach will be tested against Auburn’s athleticism and offensive explosiveness. Both programs have shown resilience and growth throughout the tournament, and their contrasting-styles should make for a compelling finale to the NIT. 

As the lights shine bright in Indianapolis once again, the stage is set for one final battle to close out the college basketball season with a championship on the line. 

This article was written by Andrew Keelingi a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball.You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

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St. John’s Wins Second Straight Big East Tournament Title

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

New York, NY – On the final day of the Big East Tournament at Madison Square Garden, the conferences’s two top teams squared off in what many expected to be an instant classic. Instead, it was the St. John’s Red Storm who controlled the game from start to finish, dominating UConn for the full 40 minutes to secure back-to-back Big East Tournament championships. The Johnnies never surrendered the lead, and the Huskies never truly looked like they had a chance to mount a comeback, as the game ended in a decisive 72–52 victory for St. John’s.

Similar to St. John’s previous two games in the tournament, attacking the paint was once again a major point of emphasis. A key part of that approach was consistently feeding the ball to the low block, where Big East Tournament Most Outstanding Player Zuby Ejiofor made a significant impact. The senior big man finished with 18 points on an efficient 7-of-11 shooting from the field, while also knocking down two three-pointers.

Ejiofor wasn’t the only one finding success inside. Bryce Hopkins also showcased impressive back-to-the-basket ability, using polished footwork to create space and convert several heavily contested shots around the rim. Hopkins matched Ejiofor’s scoring output, finishing with 18 points of his own on an efficient 7-of-9 from the field.

To add to the Red Storm’s strong offensive performance, they were just as dominant on the defensive end. St. John’s held the Huskies to a stifling 34% from the field and forced 17 turnovers, disrupting nearly everything UConn tried to run, from what looked like clean entry passes to blowing up dribble handoffs. Leading the defensive effort was none other than Zuby Ejiofor. He finished with 3 steals and an impressive 7 blocks, protecting the rim and giving the Huskies nothing easy in the paint. Dylan Darling also made a major impact defensively, matching Ejiofor’s steal total with 3 of his own. Darling did an excellent job reading ball handlers, timing their dribble cadence perfectly and picking their pockets at key moments.

The lone bright spot for the Huskies in this game was senior big man Tarris Reed. Reed finished with 17 points on 8-of-17 shooting from the field while adding 7 rebounds. Similar to St. John’s approach with Ejiofor, UConn made a concerted effort to get the ball down low and take advantage of the Reed–Ejiofor matchup. Reed did a solid job using his size and strength to back Ejiofor down and convert several easy hook shots around the rim.

Despite Reed’s strong performance, it was difficult for the Huskies to keep pace while shooting just 16% from three-point range. UConn’s typical perimeter threats—Solo Ball, Braylon Mullins, and Alex Karaban—struggled throughout the game, combining to shoot just 2-of-14 from beyond the arc.

With the Big East Tournament now complete, the attention quickly shifts to Selection Sunday, where the conference’s postseason picture will officially come into focus. St. John’s, UConn, and Villanova are all expected to hear their names called, and the biggest question now becomes where each team will land in the NCAA Tournament bracket. After St. John’s dominant run through Madison Square Garden, the Red Storm will look to carry that momentum into The Big Dance, while UConn and Villanova await their seeding as they prepare for the next stage of the postseason.

This article was written by William Murphy, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

Underdogs Win at Big East Tournament’s First Day

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

New York, NY – Three games tipped off the Big East Tournament on Wednesday, and they did not disappoint. The day featured plenty of drama, highlighted by the Providence Friars rallying from a 16-point deficit to secure a 10-point victory. The Xavier Musketeers also advanced in thrilling fashion, pulling out a win in a game that came down to the final seconds. Meanwhile, the Georgetown Hoyas emerged victorious in a physical battle against the DePaul Blue Demons, marking the program’s first Big East Tournament win under head coach Ed Cooley.

In the first matchup of the day, the Friars came away with a 91–81 victory over the Butler Bulldogs in a high-scoring contest. Providence leaned on a three-headed offensive attack, as Jaylin Sellers (23 points), Ryan Mela (23 points), and Stefan Vaaks (28 points) combined for 74 of the team’s 91 points. Vaaks was particularly impressive from beyond the arc, knocking down 8-of-13 three-point attempts, tying the Big East Tournament record for most threes made in a game.

For Butler, senior forward Michael Ajayi once again delivered a strong performance, recording another double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds. The Bulldogs frequently used off-ball screens to free Ajayi, recognizing that Providence was switching nearly every action. Once Butler successfully forced a switch and got a guard matched up with him, they consistently fed Ajayi in the post, where he went to work. However, his aggressive style ultimately played a role in Butler’s downfall. Ajayi found himself in foul trouble for much of the second half, and his limited availability significantly altered the Bulldogs’ rhythm and overall approach down the stretch.

In Richard Pitino’s first Big East Tournament game leading Xavier, he guided the Musketeers to a thrilling 89–87 victory that was decided in the final seconds. All-Big East 1st Team selection Tre Carroll showed exactly why he earned that honor, finishing with 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists while impacting the game in multiple ways. Xavier also received a huge performance from big man Jovan Milicevic, who poured in 21 points. Milicevic was especially impressive from beyond the arc, knocking down 4-of-7 three-point attempts, including several difficult, contested looks off the dribble.

For the Golden Eagles, Nigel James Jr.—who announced before the game that he will return to Milwaukee for his sophomore season—tallied 18 points and 7 assists. Sophomore Royce Parham also delivered a strong performance, adding 22 points and 9 rebounds. With James Jr. and Parham in the fold, Shaka Smart has a strong foundation to build around heading into next season. However, it will be interesting to see how active the program becomes in the transfer portal, as Smart has historically been reluctant to use it at all.

The final game of the night was the definition of a Big East Tournament battle. The Georgetown Hoyas defeated the DePaul Blue Demons 63–56 in a highly physical matchup. Leading the way for Georgetown was big man Vince Iwuchukwu, who provided a huge spark off the bench. The senior finished with 17 points and 14 rebounds in an efficient 23 minutes of action. Points in the paint proved to be the difference, as the Hoyas dominated that category 36–20. Georgetown’s physicality inside was simply too much for DePaul’s frontcourt to handle throughout the game.

For the Blue Demons, Layden Blocker turned in a strong performance with 16 points and 7 assists. He did an excellent job creating his own offense off the dribble and knocked down several tough shots. Blocker also shot an impressive 4/6 from beyond the arc. Despite the loss, Chris Holtmann appears to be building a solid foundation in Chicago, and the DePaul program is trending in the right direction.

With the opening round complete, attention now turns to Thursday’s quarterfinal match-ups at Madison Square Garden. Providence will tip things off at 12:00 PM against St. John’s in what should be an up-tempo battle, while Xavier faces a major test against UConn at 7:00 PM. The nightcap will feature Georgetown taking on Villanova at 9:30 PM, as the Hoyas look to carry their physical momentum into another tough matchup. With three teams advancing out of Wednesday’s action and the stakes continuing to rise, the Big East Tournament is setting up for another exciting day of basketball.

This article was written by William Murphy, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

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