Next Gen Academy continues to provide an environment where players can compete, sharpen their games, and show exactly what they bring to the floor. This session featured a strong mix of high school and middle school talent, with players making their presence felt in several different ways. Some came in looking to put points on the board, while others separated themselves through defensive activity, physicality, decision making, and their ability to impact possessions without needing the ball. What stood out to me was the level of competitiveness and how several players understood their individual strengths while still finding ways to contribute to winning basketball. These are my selections for Bilal’s Best from Next Gen Academy.
HIGH SCHOOL
Austin Minta | 6’2”
Minta brings strength and purpose to the guard position, attacking defenders without wasting movement. He uses his physicality to create opportunities and takes pride in guarding multiple positions. His willingness to accept coaching and immediately apply instruction stands out. Minta leads by example and understands how to contribute to winning basketball.
Charlie Wonder | 6’2”
Wonder has broad shoulders and a long wingspan that allow him to play well beyond his listed height. He’s an active rebounder who understands how to establish position and compete against bigger opponents. His length becomes an advantage when battling for loose balls and finishing possessions. Wonder consistently finds ways to make winning plays without needing the offense to run through him.
Kingston Allen | 6’1”
Allen is a scoring machine who can put points on the board in bunches. He can hurt defenses at all three levels, finding his rhythm whether he’s attacking the basket or creating space for jumpers. His conditioning allows him to maintain an aggressive offensive approach throughout competition. Allen looks physically prepared to carry his scoring ability into the upcoming high school season.
Malik Paul | 6’0”
Paul was arguably the most athletic player in attendance, bringing elite explosiveness to the floor. Once he gets downhill in transition, defenders have to think twice before challenging him above the rim. His ability to elevate makes him a legitimate highlight threat whenever he has space to operate. Paul attacks the open court with aggression and can change the energy of a game with one play.
Andy Wagnac Jr. | 5’11”
Wagnac understands the importance of paint touches and how they can completely change a possession. He gets downhill with purpose, forcing defenders to react while keeping his decision making under control. His aggression never seems rushed, allowing him to recognize when to score or create opportunities for others. Wagnac is a natural hooper with a strong understanding of how to manipulate a defense.
Landen Green | 5’10”
Green has some serious dance moves with the basketball and knows how to rock defenders to sleep. His crafty handle and changes of pace allow him to create separation whenever he needs it. He’s a legitimate three level scorer who can turn a simple isolation into an offensive advantage. Green plays with creativity and confidence that makes him difficult to stay in front of.
Dee Lundy Jr. | 5’9”
Lundy brings elite quickness and speed with a handle that stays tight like a yo-yo. He keeps his dribble alive through pressure, extending possessions until something opens up. His ability to score or facilitate in quick bursts can completely swing momentum in his team’s favor. Lundy is a dangerous guard when he gets rolling because defenses struggle to keep pace with him.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Aliyas Heard | 6’2”
Heard is a force around the basket who combines physical strength with a surprisingly soft touch. He can overpower defenders inside but also shows finesse when finishing through traffic. His ability to handle the ball and make plays gives him some point forward qualities. Heard presents matchup problems because he’s capable of impacting possessions beyond the paint.
Mekhi Grant | 6’0”
Grant brings a high motor and genuine enthusiasm every time he steps on the floor. His natural feel allows him to recognize opportunities for teammates while remaining a productive scorer himself. He can put points together in several ways without needing to dominate possessions. Grant’s energy and instincts make him a valuable piece on both ends.
Averette Ham | 5’10”
Ham is an underrated prospect whose game deserves more attention. He takes individual matchups seriously and competes with a quiet confidence. His ability to score within the flow of the offense allows him to remain productive without forcing shots. Ham understands how to pick his spots and make opponents respect his presence.
Shane Gordon Jr. | 5’10”
Gordon has impressive strength for an eighth grade guard and is among the top shooting prospects nationally in the Class of 2031. His ability to track the basketball is elite, whether he’s relocating for an open shot, pursuing rebounds, or anticipating passing lanes. He consistently puts himself in position to make plays instead of waiting for opportunities to develop. Gordon’s shooting ability and activity away from the ball make him a difficult player to account for.
Dawson Nasrallah | 5’8”
Nasrallah has a quick release and knows how to find opportunities to put points on the board. His toughness continues to develop alongside his maturity, especially when facing challenging stretches. He shows a willingness to push through adversity rather than allowing difficult possessions to affect his confidence. Nasrallah is a receptive hooper whose scoring ability gives him a strong foundation.
Joshua Martinez | 5’8”
Martinez is a versatile defender who can compete on the perimeter or hold his own closer to the basket. He has a knack for stealing the basketball and anticipating where the next pass is headed. His toughness allows him to play through contact without losing effectiveness. Martinez regularly turns defensive stops into offensive opportunities for his team.
Taylor Ricketts-Knowles | 5’8”
Ricketts-Knowles is a shifty guard who uses his handle to create space against defenders. His shooting ability gives opponents another concern when trying to contain him. He understands his role and doesn’t feel the need to force the action to make an impact. Ricketts-Knowles provides value by playing within the offense and capitalizing on his opportunities.
Cortez Robinson | 5’7”
Robinson has a smooth offensive game and rarely looks uncomfortable with the basketball. He’s capable of attacking defenders off the dribble or stepping into perimeter jumpers. His versatility allows him to fit into different lineups without disrupting the offense. Robinson is a plug and play guard who understands how to make himself productive.
