Next Gen Circuit: Middle School Players Of The Year
Presenting the first annual Next Gen Circuit Player Of The Year awards. The Middle School years are very pivotal in a players development. Choosing one player in anything will always be tough, but these youthful student-athletes were a slight notch above the competition. This is a prestigious honor and we congratulate the players selected.
Zaire Colbert | Tre Mann Elite Puma
2029 Player Of The Year
Colbert was flat out on another planet this season. Colbert had a breakout performance at the ATL HoopFest tournament. Catching our attention once again as a contender for the best guard in the country. Colbert’s demeanor was on another level as you can tell he had something to prove. His performance at the Kings of the South tournament sealed the chatter. ZAIRE COLBERT IS THE REAL DEAL. Â
In the King’s Of The South tournament he led Tre Mann Puma to a flawless record, along with having statement games. The championship against Jet Academy Jr. EYBL, Colbert came out making his presence felt on both ends of the floor, which led to Tre Mann controlling the game from start to finish. No matter who Colbert’s teammates were throughout the season he led by example, communicated and quite frankly dominated. His Player Of The Year selection was the easiest choice against all classes. When the national rankings drop, we expect Colbert to be in the top 10 at minimum.
Zy’on Howard | Team Loaded 252
2030 Player Of The Year
Howard knows how to steal a show. His quick twitches make you want to pay attention. He can score in bunches and put the game out of reach in a short time frame. He also is an absolute pest defensively.Â
At the Rock City Classic in Rocky Mount, NC, Howard showed off his ability to take over games in a multitude of ways. Howard was even better on the road than he was at home. When he came to Atlanta, GA he put the team on his back and controlled the show. He’s ultra talented, and someone who goes the extra mile on both end. Â
LeShawn Lyle | T3 Mamba
2031 Player Of The Year
Lyle is an overall playmaker for his ball club. He’s a versatile scorer who can fill it up all over the floor. The most impressive part of his game and what may take him the furthest is his basketball IQ and ability to see a play unfolding. Lyle hits teammates in stride with crisp passes in spots their most comfortable. He is a lead guard that can play with anybody. Lyle was dominant in Georgia and Tennessee tournaments against stellar competition.