Kylie’s Top 10: Hoop Dreams Elite Camp
Omari Siplin set the tone with a calm, veteran-like presence well beyond his years. A true two-level scoring threat, Siplin is dangerous attacking off the bounce, showcasing creativity and touch when finishing at the rim. Defenders can’t sag off him either he’s comfortable stepping into a deep three. His high basketball IQ consistently showed as he made smart reads and played under control.
Zion Grice brought fearlessness, competitiveness, and a nonstop motor while constantly attacking. A quick, attacking scorer, Dollard thrives on creating offense whether that’s generating his own shot or setting up teammates. His intensity carries over defensively, where he applies pressure, hunts five-second calls, and battles on every possession.
Anthony Lee used his quickness to dictate tempo as a true floor general. He’s a constant disruptor defensively, applying full-court pressure and jumping passing lanes for quick steals and cherry-pick opportunities. Offensively, his tight handle and change of pace make him tough to contain, especially when attacking off the dribble.
Chad Whiting showed clear growth and confidence since his early summer performances. Using his size and strength, Whiting finishes through contact and runs the floor hard in transition. His improved rebounding stands out, especially his ability to convert second-chance opportunities with quick put-backs.
Kristopher Dolland is an energy spark who turns every game into a show. He plays with flair and confidence, celebrating buckets and testing out newly learned moves in live action. Aggressive on-ball defense and fearless offensive playmaking make him a constant presence, and his energy never dips.
Josiah Cosmeus made his presence felt as a physical, attacking guard. He relentlessly pressures the defense, powering his way to the basket and finishing through taller defenders. Cosmeus is also comfortable pulling up from midrange without hesitation, consistently asserting himself in the paint.
Louis Encarnacion proved to be one of the camp’s most versatile and unselfish players. Whether attacking from the wing, crashing the glass for put-backs, or using his height to rebound over defenders, Encarnacion does it all. His willingness to make the extra pass and play within the team concept stood out.
Derek Rogiers played with confidence and pace, keeping defenses honest with his willingness to shoot from deep or knock down an open midrange jumper. He looks to push the ball in transition and create opportunities, bringing steady energy whenever he’s on the floor.
Landon Merrill looked every bit like a true point guard, showcasing excellent court vision and decision-making. He excels at advancing the ball quickly to capitalize in transition and settling the offense when possessions slow down. Merrill can also score, knocking down threes and pulling up from midrange when needed.
EJ Land impressed with his efficiency and composure. A guard who thrives off one or two decisive moves, Land consistently creates lanes to score or kick out to teammates. He keeps the game simple, delivers timely buckets, and competes on defense—making him a reliable presence in high-pressure moments.