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Young Stars from the NPSI

by Carl Berman

Here is Part 2 of our National Prep School Invitational scouting articles. This article is consisted of brief overviews on some of the most promising class-of-2026 and class-of-2027 recruits who participated at the NPSI this year, as well as a few rising stars from the class of 2028.

Top Class of 2026 Recruits

Hunter Te Ratana (6’4”, Darrow School)           

Among the recruits who had a breakout performance at the 2025 NPSI. Te Ratana showcased his high potential on both ends of the floor. A deceptive athlete, the New Zealander is an explosive leaper with plenty of creativity in his dunks. His quick, repeatable and nearly automatic stroke off movement, catches and dribble suggest he would be a sniper as a two guard at the next level. Tough as nails on the defensive end with an endless motor. Te Ratana will excel in transition/fast paced plays.

Promis N’landu (6’3”, Fort Erie International Academy)                                                   

A high-major point guard with an impressive scoring game and long 6-foot-5 wingspan. N’landu will be a crafty 3-level scoring PG with great court vision and passing abilities. Has nice handles and ability to change speeds and directions creating for himself or his teammates. Going down the lane he will take advantage of his well-developing upper body, tight handles and explosive hops. He holds offers from Arizona State, Seton Hall, George Mason, Colorado State, and St. Bonaventure, he’s recently been getting more and more interest from HM schools.

Quinn Costello (6’10”, Newman School)               

A tall and long promising big man who will stretch the floor nicely thanks to his impressively smooth and fluid shooting mechanics from long range for his size. His game has plenty of upside. Very mobile, expected to put pressure on the glass and roll well to the basket, being a lob target too.

Lucas Morillo (6’7”, Newman School)

A skilled combo guard from the Dominican Republic who displays a very smooth offensive game. Seems to read it exceptionally well, showing advanced decision-making skills. Will be an effective 3-level scorer and crafty handler/facilitator in pick-and-roll actions.

Top Class of 2027 Recruits

Nalajah Christopher (6’3”, Darrow School)    

A very talented lengthy guard with a developing athletic frame which he is expected to fill out nicely with time. Christopher displayed great feel for the game and impressively mature decision making for his age (played two years up). Has high upside to turn into a high IQ lead guard with solid defensive presence. Reportedly has a great work ethic.

DJ Hawkins (6’7”, Saint Thomas More) 

A promising tall wing with athletic and lengthy frame (+3 wingspan). Expected to be a deadly 3-point shooter at the next stage, especially off spot ups.  Has high upside as a two-way player.

Deng Ngor (6’7”, Fort Erie International)                        

Another intriguing prospect in the class of 2027 who seems to be destined to only get better, Ngor is a 6-foot-7 tall wing who has elite physical attributes and great motor. Displayed promising perimeter skills and high potential on the defensive end thanks to his great effort and physical tools. Already holds offers from Stonehill, Colorado State, George Mason and Arizona State.

Jaylin Williams Crawford (6’7”, CATS)

Another tall wing with a good deal of athleticism and physical attributes, Williams Crawford has a smooth offensive game and could be lethal from long range.

Elijah McNair (6’4”, St. Andrew’s)

A big, strong and physical 6-foot-4 wing who plays beyond his age. McNair can do a bit of everything, thriving in scoring the ball – he can drive aggressively to the rim, hit shots from mid to long range, rebound well and execute off pick-and-roll actions for himself or his teammates.

Class of 2028 – Potential Rising Stars

Malachi Odugbela (6’4, St. Andrew’s)

Among the youngest and most promising players at the event, Odugbela proved he belonged to play there despite his age. Having solid basketball genes (father played D1 basketball), Odugbela plays well beyond his age, showing good understanding of the game and great shooting touch from long range, despite his railway thin and developing frame. He is expected to grow several more inches and fill out his frame well with time. Odugbela has high potential as a two-way player thanks to his elite physical tools and advanced instincts. College coaches should keep tabs on his further development.

Kyle “Bright” Delves (6’2.5”, Mount Saint Charles)

Arguably one of the best guards in the class of 2028 in the States. The future seems “Bright” for the kid from Providence. He could turn into an elite lead guard with time and reps. Extremely talented, he has   shifty handles and the ability to change pace and directions. Ambidextrous and tough, he doesn’t shy away from any contact going down to the hoop. On top of that he’s very bouncy for a guard. Reportedly Delves firstly played football but once he started playing basketball, he realized that’s his sport. Kyle Delves seems to have all the needed prerequisites to turn into an elite guard at the next level.

Quinn Costello

This article was written by Simeon Marinov, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Facebook, 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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From February 6 through February 9 at Rhode Island College we were able to scout live all 28 games at the National Prep School Invitational.

Here is Part 1 of our NPSI scouting articles. The first article is consisted of brief overviews on some of the top class-of-2025 recruits who participated at the NPSI this year. Most, if not all, of them seem capable to play a significant role or contribute from the jump on a Division 1 program.

London Jemison (6’8”, Saint Thomas More)                     – Committed to Alabama

A quick-twitch athlete who stands at 6-foot-8 with a plus two wingspan, Alabama commit Jemison seems more than ready to storm the NCAA world next season thanks to a promising blend of great physical tools and intriguing versatility. Jemison has the potential to be a 3-level scorer with a two-way value who can impact the game off the ball thanks to his good feel of when to cut combined with a nice stroke off the catch and movement.

Jaylen Harrell (6’5”, CATS)                                                    – Signed with Providence

Watching him participate at the NPSI for second year in a row, Harrell seems to be a poised and mature 6-foot-5 wing with a thick frame who knows how to be an effective scorer for his team. He is expected to be a reliable 3-point shooter off the catch and a player who can take an advantage of mismatches, bullying his opponents close to the basket.

Efeosa Oliogu (6’7”, William Academy)                               – Committed to Butler

Another recruit who seems destined to contribute right away in college next season. Oliogu, a 6-foot-7 strong and big guard with very solid base to go along with plenty of athleticism and power, for most of the time at the event he looked like a man among boys. Oliogu demonstrated intriguing decisiveness going down the lane fueled by his advanced leaping and scoring abilities. If he keeps honing his outside shot, Oliogu should have a successful collegiate career.

Mouhamed Camara (6’8”, NBA Academy)

Arguably the best defender at the tournament, the 6-foot-8 Senegalese player is extremely physically gifted with great tools (body frame, long wingspan and big shoulders), Camara could turn into a lockdown defender at the next level and a nightmare for opponents’ passing lanes. He will excel thanks to his athleticism in transition and open court plays. Offensively he seems to be pretty raw in half court sets at this point of his development, if he manages to develop a reliable 3-point shot, he could be an elite 3-and-D guy at the next stage.

Lual Machol (6’10”, Drive Academy)

A talented frontcourt player who displayed flashes of an eye-opening blend of fluidity and versatility in his game. Standing at 6-foot-10, his ball handling skills and understanding of the game to go along with his ability to create his own shot and also knock down threes were pretty impressive.

Ashton Reynolds (6’4, Williston Northampton School)

A Brooklyn native, Ashton Reynolds showcased his elite and eye-popping athleticism terrorizing the rims  to go along with a promising 3-point stroke (despite jumping pretty high) and solid defensive commitment. An intriguing two-way guard with crazy hops, Reynolds’ great showcase earned him offers from Bryant, Delaware State and Fairfield.

Brandon Benjamin (6’8”, Saint Thomas More)

A physically gifted athletic frontcourt player, New Jersey native Brandon Benjamin has a huge +6 wingspan, strong shoulders to go along with nice mobility and hops. Offensively he seems to be pretty versatile, being able to attack off the bounce, hit spot-up threes or finish aggressively above the rim off cuts. Will bring energy and good motor. Thanks to his solid performance at the event, he got an offer from University of Massachusetts.

Teshaun Steele (6’7”, Darrow School)

A 6-foot-7 lefty athletic wing with nice length and a high two-way upside. He displayed promising defensive versatility, solid rebounding and very good verticality within the paint. His stroke from long range looks good too.

Tomas Valentiny (6’7”, Get Better Academy)

A 6-foot-7 Slovakian forward, Valentiny has gotten stronger since the last time we scouted him at the 2024 NPSI. Playing a main role on their pro team in the Czech top division this season helped Valentiny become more confident. He is expected to be a reliable and consistent 3-point shooter, mainly off spot-ups and a good scorer/driver off the catch. Shows solid verticality. Should be a nice pick up for a MM school.

Abdullah Amzil (6’7”, Drive Academy)

A big wing from Finland, Amzil displayed his versatility. He could be a threat from long range. Has good hands on defense, will be a plus help defender thanks to his nice awareness, quick reactions and good verticality. His older brother, Mustapha has been playing college basketball (started at Dayton, now at New Mexico).

Kieran Mullen (7’0”, Saint Thomas More)

A long and mobile Canadian 7-footer who displayed pretty good skill set for his position and size. Should be a reliable lob catcher and rim protector, a solid roller and big man who will understand the game well. On top of that, his mid-range stroke looks good and capable of being a decent 3-point shooter with time and reps. Holds offers from Montana State, James Madison and Seattle, while still getting other interest.

Josue Kangudi (6’5”, Bridgeport Prep)

An explosive leaper, Kangudi embraces every single contact he plays through going down the lane. His physicality and level of sheer strength is hard to be matched whether in transition or in traffic, with his great verticality you get a hard-to-be-stopped slasher. Kangudi displayed decent shooting ability from mid to long range as well.

London Jemison

This article was written by Simeon Marinov, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Facebook, or on twitter. We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

Jeremy Kolev

by Carl Berman

PF/SF / 6’6”/ Class 2025

2024-25: Playing in Germany Pro B with Feilbach – 4.5 ppg + 2.0 rpg in 12 mpg. However has been playing very well with extended minutes. 18 points in 33 minutes against Orange Academy. 12 points in 20 minutes vs. Leitershofen. 12 points in 22 minutes against Rhoendorf.

2023: U18 European Championships Division B – 6.1 ppg + 5.4 rpg

Jeremy Kolev is a stocky versatile forward with a +3 wingspan and build that reminds us of Charles Barkley to an extent – Kolev is an impressively sneaky athletic. Will play bigger than his height. A hustle guy with a high motor who will be ready to sacrifice his body on the defensive end. A true fighter on both sides of the ball, showing great competitive spirit. Tough as nails.

Offensively he will be able to do a bit of everything, a savvy driver to the hoop who embraces the physical game. At the same time, he will be able to space the floor with an improving outside stroke, mainly as a spot-up shooter. Kolev could be a great addition to any low-major D1 school thanks to a nice blend of great intangibles (coachability, work ethic, competitiveness) and good skill set. Played with Bulgaria at U16 and U18 FIBA summer youth events. He has both a Bulgarian and a German passport.

Projection: Low Major D1

Video

Most recent highlights

For more information and additional full game video, please contact Carl Berman at carl@netscoutsbasketball.com or at 541.359.9653. You can also contact Simeon Marinov at simeon@netscoutsbasketball.com or at +359 88 359 0707.

Ivo Korestilov

by Carl Berman

Ivo Korestilov

PF/C / 6’9”/Class 2025

2024-25: Bulgaria U21 League/ Balkan/ Avg: 12.7 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 3.0 apg, 1.0 bpg, 25% on 3’s – Has also been getting 11 minutes per game on Balkan’s Eurocup team

2023: U18 European Championships Division B: 8.7 ppg + 5.0 rpg

Ivo Korestilov is a 6-foot-9 Bulgarian frontcourt player who can play at positions 4 and 5, showing good versatility and athleticism. Can put the ball on the deck and operate, play some face-up game or post up. He should be able to step out and hit some threes well at the next stage thanks to his developing 3-point stroke. Defensively he will move his feet well for his size, being able to switch effectively. For a second year in a row, Korestilov has been practicing and playing some minutes on the roster of one of the top pro teams in Bulgaria, Balkan. Played on the Bulgarian national teams (U16, U18 and U20) at the FIBA summer youth events.

Projection: Low Major D1

Video

Most recent highlights

For more information and additional full game video, please contact Carl Berman at carl@netscoutsbasketball.com or at 541.359.9653. You can also contact Simeon Marinov at simeon@netscoutsbasketball.com or at +359 88 359 0707.

Kristiyan Vasilev

by Carl Berman

PF/SF / 6’7”/ Class 2025

2024/25: Bulgaria U21 League/ Balkan/ Avg: 16.6 ppg, 9.3 rpg, 3.0 apg, 0.8 bpg, 30.4% on 3’s

2024: U18 European Championships Division B – 5.7 ppg + 6.0 rpg

Kristiyan Vasilev is a lefty forward with a promising body (big feet/hands, good wide shoulders), light off his feet, moves well. He will need a bit more time to fill out his frame. A late bloomer. Could turn into a reliable spot-up shooter with time and reps. Going to a Juco might be the best way for him to adjust to the style of the game, keep filling out his frame and gain more exposure. Played with Bulgaria at U16 and U18 FIBA Eurobasket.

Has been already receiving some interest from top Juco programs in the States.

Projection: Juco/Low Major D1

Video

10/2024: Full game vs. Spartak (#1 Green)

Most Recent Highlights

For more information and additional full game video, please contact Carl Berman at carl@netscoutsbasketball.com or at 541.359.9653. You can also contact Simeon Marinov at simeon@netscoutsbasketball.com or at +359 88 359 0707.

William Kruse

by Carl Berman

**William Ljones Kruse**

– PF 7’0″ / Class 2025

– Norway PRO-A League / BC Ashel Aliens / Avg: 9.6 ppg; 5.6 rpg, 1.2 bpg, 34.5% on 3’s

DESCRIPTION:

A 7’0″ forward and member of Norway’s U18 National Team, renowned as one of the country’s top big men. Exceptional shooter with impressive mobility and high basketball IQ, excelling in both perimeter play and transition. Competes in Norway’s Pro-A league, averaging nearly 10 PPG. Has grown some recently and is now 7’0″ in shoes.

Video

2024-25 Norway Pro A Highlights

2024 FIBA Highlights

Projection: Mid-Major, has a lot of interest from low to mid major schools.

For more information, please contact Carl Berman at carl@netscoutsbasketball.com or at 541.359.9653

Andrija Djuric

by Carl Berman

**Andrija Djuric**

– PF, 6’9”, Class 2025

Pro A Serbia & U19 Serbia  / BC Dynamic / Avg: 16.2 ppg;  6.6 rpg; 1.7 apg in U19 Serbia.

DESCRIPTION:

Represented Serbia at the renowned Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Mannheim, Germany. Versatile athlete with excellent physical attributes. Sharp spot-up shooter, particularly from beyond the arc. Strong in contact situations, able to draw fouls and finish with ease. Agile defender, excelling in weak-side and post defense.

Projection” LM+to MM

Video

2024-25 Highlights

For more information and full game video, please contact Carl Berman at carl@netscoutsbasketball.com or at 541.359.9653

Jovan Nekic

by Carl Berman

**Jovan Nekic**

– PF / C, 6’9”, Class 2025

– Pro-B Serbia – BC Dunav / Avg: 17 ppg; 3.5 rpg; 2apg with 3P – 38%.

DESCRIPTION:

– Competed for BC Partizan in the prestigious EuroLeague Junior Tournament—ANGT (Adidas Next Generation). Jovan Nekić is a power forward with a unique combination of size, shooting, and versatility. His ability to score in the post and stretch the floor with a reliable outside shot makes him a valuable asset for teams at higher levels. With his physical tools and skill set, he is poised to make an immediate impact as he continues to develop.

Projection: LM-MM

For information please contact Carl Berman at carl@netscoutsbasketball.com or at 541.359.9653

IG: https://www.instagram.com/p/C-0hRBMu8m-/

VIDEOS:

– Highlights (2024 season):

Ivan Spirov

by Carl Berman

Ivan Spirov is a 6’8, 235-pound power forward from Bulgaria who is recruitable to the 2025 class. Spirov is in his fifth professional year in the top league in Bulgaria. He’s athletic, can shoot and can guard multiple positions. Spirov has a great motor, is a hard-worker and will bring toughness to any program.

Ranking/Projection: MM+ (Mountain West, Atlantic 10, WCC level)

Career Highlights

2023-24 season with Cherno More Tisha Varna: 11.3 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 38.3% on 3’s

2023 U20 European Championships Division B: 10.5 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 44.4% 3’s

Videos

Short Highlights

Full Highlights

Short Highlights from February 1, 2025 game (10 points in 14 minutes)

For information please contact Carl Berman at carl@netscoutsbsketball.com