2026 FIBA U17 World Cup: Top NBA Prospects

The 2026 FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup, held June 27 by July 5 in Istanbul, Türkiye, as soon as once more served as one of many world’s premier showcases for younger basketball expertise. Crew USA captured its eighth consecutive FIBA U17 World Cup title, dominating the competitors and successful each sport by a cushty margin behind Match MVP Joaquim Boumtje-Boumtje. The victory additionally prolonged the USA’ excellent all-time file in FIBA U17 World Cup competitors to 58-0. Already having established himself throughout a number of main occasions, Boumtje additional solidified his standing as the highest prospect within the 2028 class. The match additionally featured an impressive worldwide group led by Nikola Kusturica of Serbia and Nathan Soliman of France, each of whom strengthened their standing among the many high prospects outdoors the USA.

Projecting 16- and 17-year-old gamers is rarely an actual science, however the FIBA U17 World Cup has persistently confirmed to be one among basketball’s premier scouting occasions. Primarily based on the expertise assembled in Istanbul, the 2028 NBA Draft is already shaping as much as be one of many stronger courses in latest reminiscence on the high. Merely watching the highest 5 or 6 performers at this occasion provided a glimpse of a gaggle with professional NBA star potential, making this match a useful early analysis alternative for scouts.

Elite Prospects

Joaquim Boumtje-BoumtjeForward | 6’11” | Born: Could 30, 2009 | FC Barcelona (Spain) | USATournament Stats: 19.6 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 2.0 APG, 2.1 BPG, 1.7 SPG, 55 of 92 (59.8%) FG, 17 of 32 (53.1%) 3PT, 22 of 25 (88.0%) FT

Boumtje Boumtje entered the match as arguably the world’s high highschool prospect and solely strengthened that popularity over seven excellent performances. The Match MVP led Crew USA to a different gold medal whereas impacting each facet of the sport. Whether or not scoring, rebounding, defending or facilitating offense, he persistently separated himself by his distinctive mix of measurement, talent, athleticism and really feel for the sport.

Headed to Duke for the following two seasons, Boumtje Boumtje possesses one of many rarest combos of measurement and perimeter talent in beginner basketball. Standing almost seven ft tall, he performs like a contemporary face-up energy ahead, comfortably dealing with the ball in transition, initiating offense from the perimeter and attacking defenders off the dribble. Duke might have landed a modern-day Chris Webber for the following two seasons, a comparability that won’t sit nicely with Michigan (Fab 5) followers, however one which displays Boumtje Boumtje’s unusual versatility and basketball instincts.

One in all his largest strengths is his passing. Boumtje Boumtje repeatedly acknowledged backdoor cuts earlier than they developed, delivering completely timed passes that many gamers his age merely don’t see. He persistently made the additional go and performed throughout the movement of the offense slightly than forcing tough pictures.

His perimeter taking pictures additionally took one other important step ahead. Boumtje Boumtje knocked down 17 of his 32 (53.1%) three-point makes an attempt whereas changing 22 of his 25 (88.0%) free throws, forcing defenses to respect him nicely past the arc and opening driving lanes the place he excelled attacking closeouts.

Defensively, he was equally impactful. His lively fingers disrupted passing lanes, his mobility allowed him to change comfortably onto smaller gamers and his size made him an impressive rim protector. In opposition to Japan, he seemed like a shot-blocking machine, repeatedly erasing makes an attempt across the basket with distinctive timing and instincts.

Boumtje Boumtje performs with unusual maturity, hardly ever forcing the motion and persistently making successful basketball performs. There may be nonetheless room to proceed including energy, however only a few weaknesses at present exist in his general profile. If his improvement continues alongside its present trajectory, he ought to enter the 2028 NBA Draft because the main candidate to develop into the No. 1 general choice.

AJ WilliamsWing | 6’7” | Born: June 28, 2009 | Eagles Touchdown Excessive College (McDonough, GA)Match Stats: 14.0 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 40 of 94 (42.6%) FG, 14 of 33 (42.4%) 3PT, 4 of 6 (66.7%) FT

Williams entered Istanbul carrying the popularity as one of many premier highschool prospects in America and left trying each bit the half. Presently thought to be the highest junior (Class of 2027) within the nation, Williams can also be sufficiently old to probably reclassify, making him eligible for the 2028 NBA Draft ought to he select that path. A supreme athlete with elite explosiveness, excellent energy and unusual fluidity for a participant his measurement, Williams persistently overwhelmed opponents whereas exhibiting continued development within the talent areas that in the end decide NBA superstardom.

Though his athleticism instantly captures consideration, Williams proved all through the match that he’s way more than a highlight-reel finisher. He possesses an excellent deal with for a 6-foot-7 wing, comfortably creating offense off the dribble and exhibiting growing confidence pulling up from mid-range and past the three-point line. His capability to create high quality pictures with out relying solely on transition alternatives is among the largest causes evaluators stay so excessive on his long-term outlook.

His sport has shades of Jaylen Brown. Williams combines explosive athleticism with super energy whereas nonetheless shifting fluidly on the perimeter. He routinely outclassed opponents bodily, ending above the rim, attacking by contact and creating offense along with his deal with. As his pull-up jumper and general flooring sport proceed to develop, his ceiling solely continues to rise.

Defensively, Williams has each bodily device NBA groups covet in a contemporary wing. He strikes exceptionally nicely laterally, anticipates actions earlier than they develop and persistently makes life tough for opposing scorers. Few gamers within the match may beat him cleanly off the dribble, and he recurrently used his size and timing to contest pictures with out fouling.

Williams already possesses NBA-caliber athleticism, however his creating talent stage is what separates him from many elite younger athletes. As his perimeter taking pictures, shot creation and decision-making proceed to enhance, he has all of the instruments to develop into one among basketball’s premier two-way wings and stays firmly within the dialog as a future No. 1 general choose, whether or not that in the end comes within the 2028 or 2029 NBA Draft.

Beckham BlackPoint Guard | 6’2” | Born: January 30, 2009 | Southeastern Prep (Orlando, FL) | USATournament Stats: 12.3 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 8.3 APG, 3.0 SPG, 34 of 65 (52.3%) FG, 11 of 28 (39.3%) 3PT, 7 of 8 (87.5%) FT

Black emerged as one of many match’s largest winners, incomes All-Match High 5 honors whereas establishing himself as one of many elite lead guards within the 2028 class. He performed with unusual poise all through the occasion, persistently controlling the tempo of video games and making excellent selections with the basketball. No participant dictated tempo higher.

A really clean flooring common, Black by no means appeared rushed regardless of fixed defensive strain. He persistently saved defenders off stability, organized Crew USA’s offense and delivered correct passes to each space of the ground. His maturity and really feel for the purpose guard place stood out each time he stepped onto the courtroom.

Black additionally showcased spectacular shot-making capability. He confidently knocked down pull-up three-pointers from nicely past the worldwide arc and persistently punished defenders who gave him house. His mixture of perimeter taking pictures, ball dealing with and decision-making makes him equally harmful as each a scorer and facilitator.

Past the numbers, Black merely performed with “high quality,” borrowing a little bit of terminology from the “different” World Cup at present happening. He displayed excellent management, competitiveness and basketball IQ whereas sustaining a no-nonsense strategy all through the match. Each possession appeared purposeful, and he hardly ever pressured the motion or made poor selections.

The youthful brother of Orlando Magic wing Anthony Black, Beckham might in the end possess even better offensive upside. His mixture of management, taking pictures, poise and really feel for the sport offers him one of many highest ceilings among the many guards in his class and firmly locations him among the many premier prospects from the 2026 FIBA U17 World Cup.

CJ RosserForward | 6’9” | Born: April 21, 2009 | Northern Nash Excessive College (Rocky Mount, NC) | USATournament Stats: 16.4 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 38 of 74 (51.3%) FG, 11 of 30 (36.7%) 3PT, 28 of 37 (75.7%) FT

CJ Rosser arrived in Istanbul as one among Crew USA’s premier long-term prospects and left trying each bit the a part of a future NBA lottery choose. The 6-foot-9 ahead averaged 16.4 factors whereas serving to the USA seize one other FIBA U17 World Cup title, persistently showcasing a uncommon mix of elite athleticism, size and talent that solidified his standing among the many high prospects within the 2028 class. He saved his finest for final, scoring 23 factors within the gold medal sport in opposition to Serbia whereas connecting on 4 of his 5 three-point makes an attempt.

Rosser’s best energy is his distinctive bodily profile. An elite athlete with excellent explosiveness, he performs nicely above the rim and covers floor effortlessly in transition and on the defensive finish. Lengthy, rangy and extremely fluid, he combines velocity, vertical pop and physique management in a method few gamers his age can match. Few gamers within the match possessed his mixture of measurement, mobility and defensive upside, giving him the instruments to affect the sport on each ends of the ground.

What separates Rosser from many elite athletes is the polish of his offensive sport. He persistently ran the ground for straightforward baskets, attacked closeouts, completed by contact and displayed an more and more dependable perimeter jumper, flattening 11 of 30 (36.7%) three-point makes an attempt. His mechanics proceed to enhance, and he seems to be comfy recognizing up or entering into pictures in rhythm. He additionally confirmed encouraging really feel as a passer, making fast, unselfish reads and demonstrating the imaginative and prescient to create alternatives for teammates.

Defensively, Rosser initiatives as one of many extra versatile forwards in his class. His size permits him to contest pictures with out fouling, get better rapidly after switches and disrupt passing lanes. He persistently altered pictures across the basket whereas demonstrating the lateral quickness to defend a number of positions. His mixture of athleticism, timing and instincts offers him the instruments to develop into a high-impact defender as he continues to develop.

The largest query shifting ahead shall be his general improvement. Rosser stays comparatively lean and might want to proceed including practical energy whereas refining the finer factors of his sport as he matures. If he continues progressing bodily and skill-wise, he has the expertise to emerge as one of many premier forwards within the 2028 NBA Draft. His efficiency in Istanbul, notably his robust exhibiting within the championship sport, bolstered why evaluators proceed to view him as one of many class’s most intriguing long-term prospects.

Nikola KusturicaWing/Ahead | 6’8” | Born: April 30, 2009 | FC Barcelona (Spain) | Serbia / *UCLATournament Stats: 24.6 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 2.7 APG, 58 of 124 (46.8%) FG, 13 of fifty (26.0%) 3PT, 43 of 59 (72.9%) FT

Kusturica emerged as one of many largest stars of the match whereas establishing himself among the many elite worldwide prospects within the 2028 class. The Serbian wing carried his staff to the gold medal sport earlier than delivering one of many best particular person performances in FIBA U17 World Cup historical past, scoring a championship game-record 37 factors in opposition to Crew USA. Regardless of the loss, his efficiency on the most important stage cemented his popularity as one of many premier skills in Istanbul.

Listed at 6-foot-8, Kusturica possesses excellent measurement for a wing together with probably the most polished offensive talent units within the match. Extra of some extent ahead than a standard wing, he’s a clean, extremely expert playmaker who comfortably handles the ball, modifications tempo and creates offense for himself and others. His sport has shades of Toni Kukoč, combining measurement, creativity and really feel with the flexibility to attain, go and provoke the offense.

Kusturica is a real three-level scorer. He makes use of excellent footwork, physique management and contact to create high quality seems to be, whether or not attacking off the dribble, posting smaller defenders or ending across the basket. Whereas his 26.0 % mark from three doesn’t absolutely replicate his taking pictures capability, he remained a assured perimeter risk all through the match and repeatedly delivered in huge moments, particularly in opposition to Crew USA within the championship sport.

He additionally impacts the sport past scoring, averaging 6.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 2.3 steals and 1.7 blocks per sport. An instinctive passer with wonderful really feel, Kusturica persistently makes good selections, creates alternatives for teammates and competes on each ends of the ground.

The largest query surrounding Kusturica is his athletic ceiling. Whereas he has good fluidity for a participant his measurement and is exceptionally clean off the dribble, he isn’t an particularly explosive athlete. As an alternative, he creates separation with tempo, physique management, footwork and basketball IQ. Including energy and enhancing the consistency of his outdoors shot shall be vital areas of improvement.

Already creating inside FC Barcelona’s excellent youth system, Kusturica seems exceptionally nicely positioned for continued development. After reportedly receiving a two-year, $12 million NIL supply from UCLA, he formally dedicated to the Bruins right now, underscoring simply how extremely regarded he already is regardless of being solely 17 years outdated. His mixture of measurement, talent and really feel for the sport offers him one of many highest ceilings among the many worldwide prospects within the 2028 class and makes him a professional top-five candidate within the 2028 NBA Draft.

Nathan SolimanForward | 6’8” | Born: Could 14, 2009 | Nantes Basket Hermine | FranceTournament Stats: 17.6 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 2.9 APG, 44 of 76 (57.9%) FG, 11 of 26 (42.3%) 3PT, 24 of 33 (72.7%) FT

Soliman entered the match as one among Europe’s premier younger forwards and persistently validated that popularity in opposition to elite competitors. The versatile French standout combines excellent measurement, talent and really feel for the sport, giving him one of many highest long-term ceilings among the many worldwide prospects in Istanbul.

A real trendy combo ahead, Soliman is comfy enjoying both ahead place. He possesses wonderful ball-handling capability for a participant his measurement and persistently created offense off the dribble all through the match. His capability to assault defenders in house, change instructions and create high quality scoring alternatives is very spectacular contemplating each his age and bodily profile.

One in all Soliman’s largest strengths is his taking pictures. He knocked down 11 of his 26 (42.3%) three-point makes an attempt whereas changing 24 of his 33 (72.7%) free throws, proving equally comfy recognizing up or stepping confidently into catch-and-shoot alternatives. In opposition to Crew USA, he showcased his superior offensive talent set by scoring 18 factors on 6-of-7 taking pictures, highlighted by a clean turnaround jumper that displayed his footwork, stability and contact.

Regardless of being listed at 6-foot-8, Soliman usually performed greater than his top because of his lengthy arms, excellent attain and talent to affect performs above the rim. He recurrently attacked the basket with authority, ending over defenders whereas utilizing his size and physique management to finish tough performs in site visitors. His mixture of athleticism, size and talent makes him notably tough to match up in opposition to.

Soliman additionally demonstrated wonderful passing instincts all through the match, averaging 2.9 assists per sport. Comfy working as a face-up 4, he persistently made good reads off the dribble and located open teammates when defenses collapsed. His mix of ball dealing with, passing and perimeter taking pictures permits him to operate as way more than a standard energy ahead.

His general package deal is extraordinarily spectacular. Between his size, lengthy arms, athleticism, taking pictures capability and superior offensive talent set, Soliman possesses the instruments of a contemporary NBA ahead. If his improvement continues on its present path, he has the expertise to develop right into a professional top-five candidate within the 2028 NBA Draft.

Worldwide Standouts

Isaiah HamiltonSmall Ahead | 6’5” | Born: October 27, 2009 | Crestwood Preparatory School (CAN) | CanadaTournament Stats: 14.0 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 34 of 85 (40.0%) FG, 15 of 46 (32.6%) 3PT, 15 of 24 (62.5%) FT

Hamilton entered the match carrying the popularity as one among Canada’s premier younger prospects and a consensus top-five participant within the 2028 recruiting class. Regardless of going through fixed defensive consideration as Canada’s major scoring possibility, he persistently showcased the shot creation and scoring instincts which have made him probably the most extremely regarded wings in North America.

A clean, athletic 6-foot-5 wing, Hamilton is able to creating offense each with and with out the basketball. He possesses a refined deal with, modifications tempo successfully and persistently creates separation off the dribble. His offensive versatility stood out all through the match, as he confirmed the flexibility to attain from all three ranges whereas remaining assured in opposition to high-level worldwide competitors.

Hamilton’s perimeter taking pictures stays one of many extra intriguing elements of his sport. Whereas his percentages fluctuated all through the occasion, he by no means hesitated to take huge pictures and displayed basically sound mechanics that venture nicely long run. He additionally attacked the basket aggressively, utilizing his athleticism and physique management to complete by contact and maintain strain on opposing defenses.

Defensively, Hamilton has the bodily instruments to develop into an affect wing. He strikes nicely laterally, competes on the glass and has the size and athleticism to defend a number of perimeter positions. As he continues including energy and expertise, his defensive consistency ought to proceed enhancing.

Hamilton possesses the mixture of athleticism, shot creation and offensive confidence that NBA scouts covet in trendy wings. Though his effectivity was impacted by the heavy offensive burden he carried, his expertise was evident all through the match. With continued bodily improvement and improved shot choice, he has all of the instruments to justify his standing among the many elite prospects within the 2028 class.

Emmanuel OuedraogoCenter | 6’10” | Born: November 5, 2010 | Wilson Academy (USA) | Côte d’IvoireTournament Stats: 10.4 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 1.4 APG, 2.0 BPG, 34 of 54 (63.0%) FG, 0 of 1 (0.0%) 3PT, 5 of 9 (55.6%) FT

Listed as Raphael Ouedraogo on the official FIBA roster, Ouedraogo goes by Emmanuel and emerged as one of many match’s most intriguing younger frontcourt prospects regardless of being one of many youngest gamers within the subject. Born in late 2010, the 6-foot-10 middle is an impressive athlete with spectacular energy and explosiveness, persistently impacting video games along with his measurement, size and defensive presence whereas exhibiting flashes of appreciable long-term upside.

His best energy is defending the paint. Ouedraogo averaged 2.0 blocks per sport and recurrently altered pictures that by no means appeared within the field rating. He possesses wonderful timing as a rim protector, rotates nicely from the weak aspect and makes use of his size to problem nearly all the pieces across the basket. His defensive instincts are superior for a participant his age and may proceed enhancing as he beneficial properties expertise.

Offensively, Ouedraogo was extremely environment friendly, changing 34 of his 54 (63.0%) field-goal makes an attempt whereas doing most of his injury across the rim. He runs the ground exceptionally nicely for a participant his measurement, finishes above the rim by contact and persistently generated second-chance alternatives by attacking the offensive glass. Whereas his offensive sport stays considerably uncooked, his contact across the basket, bodily instruments and willingness to play inside his function had been encouraging indicators.

Ouedraogo additionally proved to be an impressive rebounder, averaging 9.0 rebounds per sport whereas utilizing his size, motor and physicality to manage the paint. As he continues including energy to his body and increasing his offensive talent set, he has the instruments to develop right into a dominant two-way middle and one of many premier huge males within the 2028 class.

Messi Yangala

Ahead | 6’8” | Born: June 21, 2009 | Pôle France | FranceTournament Stats: 12.7 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 40 of 68 (58.8%) FG, 9 of 13 (69.2%) FT

Yangala could also be one of many match’s finest pure athletes. The explosive French wing instantly stood out along with his size, velocity and talent to play nicely above the rim. His bodily instruments alone make him one of many extra intriguing long-term prospects within the occasion.

Defensively, Yangala was at his finest. He persistently rotated from the weak aspect to dam pictures, averaging 1.4 blocks per sport whereas utilizing his timing and athleticism to erase scoring alternatives. Regardless of enjoying on the wing, he confirmed the instincts of an inside defender whereas remaining cellular sufficient to defend on the perimeter. His size additionally made him a robust rebounder, averaging 6.3 boards per contest.

Offensively, Yangala stays a piece in progress, however his upside is apparent. He runs the ground extraordinarily nicely, assaults the basket aggressively and finishes with authority across the rim, changing an environment friendly 40 of his 68 (58.8%) field-goal makes an attempt. Whereas he didn’t try a three-pointer throughout the match, continued enchancment along with his perimeter taking pictures and ball dealing with would considerably elevate his offensive ceiling.

Gamers with Yangala’s mixture of size, athleticism and defensive versatility are tough to search out. His long-term upside stays among the many highest of the worldwide wings on this class.

Luke PaulGuard | 6’5” | Born: February 20, 2009 | Cairns Taipans (Australia) | AustraliaTournament Stats: 15.3 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 7.1 APG, 30 of 62 (48.4%) FG, 10 of 18 (55.6%) 3PT, 37 of 48 (77.1%) FT

Paul put collectively one of many extra well-rounded performances among the many worldwide guards, main Australia’s offense with a formidable mixture of measurement, playmaking and flexibility. The 6-foot-6 combo guard averaged 15.3 factors and seven.1 assists whereas persistently making good selections with the basketball and impacting the sport in a number of methods.

A strong athlete with good size and fluidity, Paul possesses wonderful positional measurement for a lead guard. He handles the ball comfortably, modifications speeds nicely and does a wonderful job studying the ground. Whereas Paul isn’t an excessively quick or explosive athlete, he performs at his personal tempo and persistently will get the place he desires to go. His excellent really feel for the sport, courtroom consciousness and decision-making enable him to create alternatives with out counting on elite quickness. He does a wonderful job driving and kicking to open teammates, displaying excellent imaginative and prescient and persistently making the suitable learn when the protection collapses.

Paul additionally proved to be an environment friendly scorer. He attacked the basket underneath management, completed successfully across the rim and confirmed a dependable perimeter stroke, flattening 10 of 18 (55.6%) from three-point vary. His capability to contribute each as a scorer and facilitator makes him a tough participant to defend.

Defensively, his size and mobility enable him to protect both backcourt place, and he contributed on the glass with 5.4 rebounds per sport. He nonetheless wants so as to add energy and enhance his general explosiveness, however his bodily instruments present a strong basis for continued improvement.

Along with his mixture of measurement, passing capability, taking pictures contact and basketball IQ, Paul established himself as one of many extra intriguing worldwide guards in Istanbul. As he continues to get stronger and extra bodily mature, he has the instruments to proceed climbing as a prospect.

Omer KutluayGuard | 6’3” | Born: October 21, 2009 | Anadolu Efes | TürkiyeTournament Stats: 28.0 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 9.8 APG, 48.2 FG%, 31.7 3PT%, 75.6 FT%

Kutluay established himself as one of many premier worldwide guards within the match, combining elite manufacturing with excellent really feel for the sport. He persistently managed the tempo for Türkiye whereas main one of many occasion’s most entertaining offenses. Averaging almost 28 factors and 10 assists per sport is exceptional no matter stage, however doing so in opposition to elite worldwide competitors additional elevated his draft inventory.

A giant lead guard with wonderful positional measurement, Kutluay performs with super poise and confidence. He comfortably orchestrates the offense, retains defenders guessing with modifications of tempo and persistently delivers correct passes to teammates. His courtroom imaginative and prescient is among the many finest within the match and he confirmed the flexibility to create high quality alternatives for each himself and others.

Kutluay can also be a gifted scorer. He can create separation off the dribble, end by contact and knock down perimeter jumpers when defenders play off him. Continued enchancment along with his three-point consistency will solely make him tougher to defend.

The son of legendary Turkish taking pictures guard Ibrahim Kutluay, Omer seems to have inherited his father’s particular really feel for the sport. Whereas their kinds will not be similar, he performs with the identical confidence, instincts and pure offensive creativity that made his father one among Türkiye’s best gamers.

His mixture of measurement, playmaking capability and offensive manufacturing offers him professional first-round potential. If he continues progressing bodily and improves defensively, Kutluay has the instruments to turn into one among Europe’s high guard prospects.

Matija LukicShooting Guard | 6’7” | Born: October 19, 2009 | Basket Zaragoza 2002 SAD (Spain) | SerbiaTournament Stats: 16.1 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.4 APG, 39 of 78 (50.0%) FG, 18 of 43 (41.9%) 3PT, 17 of 27 (63.0%) FT

Lukić quietly emerged as one of many match’s extra spectacular worldwide wings, offering Serbia with a constant secondary scoring possibility alongside Nikola Kusturica. The 6-foot-7 taking pictures guard combines wonderful positional measurement with a clean perimeter sport, giving him intriguing long-term upside.

A skinny, wiry wing with room so as to add energy, Lukić is an efficient three-level scorer who performs comfortably on or off the ball. His largest offensive weapon is his perimeter taking pictures, the place he persistently knocked down pull-up jumpers and catch-and-shoot threes with a clean, repeatable launch. He linked on a formidable 18 of 43 (41.9%) from past the arc whereas demonstrating confidence in huge moments, together with a 27-point efficiency in opposition to Lithuania and 20 factors within the semifinal win over Türkiye.

Past his taking pictures, Lukić confirmed good really feel for the sport. He strikes nicely with out the basketball, assaults closeouts underneath management and usually makes sound selections slightly than forcing offense. Whereas not an explosive athlete, he makes use of his measurement, talent and tempo successfully to create high quality scoring alternatives.

Defensively, Lukić’s size offers him the potential to protect a number of perimeter positions as he continues to fill out bodily. Including energy shall be an vital a part of his improvement, permitting him to raised deal with bodily wings whereas changing into more practical ending by contact.

Along with his mixture of measurement, taking pictures capability and offensive polish, Lukić established himself as one of many higher wing prospects within the match. As his physique continues to mature and his all-around sport expands, he has the instruments to proceed climbing among the many high worldwide prospects in his class.

Amadou FallGuard | 6’5” | Born: Jan 27, 2009 | FranceTournament Stats: 10.3 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 3.1 APG, 25 of 52 (48.1%) FG, 11 of 27 (40.7%) 3PT, 11 of 18 (61.1%) FT

Fall emerged as one among France’s most intriguing backcourt prospects, showcasing a formidable mix of measurement, athleticism and offensive versatility. The 6-foot-5 combo guard possesses good size and strikes with a clean, easy model that instantly stands out.

Offensively, Fall displayed a basically sound taking pictures stroke, flattening 11 of his 27 (40.7%) three-point makes an attempt whereas persistently trying comfy creating offense. He attacked defenders aggressively off the bounce, utilizing lengthy strides and physique management to get into the paint whereas ending by contact or creating alternatives for teammates. His scoring capability was evident all through the match, however his willingness to maneuver the basketball was equally encouraging, averaging 3.1 assists whereas usually enjoying throughout the movement of the offense.

Fall’s bodily profile offers him appreciable defensive upside as nicely. With continued energy improvement, he initiatives as a participant able to defending both guard place whereas utilizing his size to disrupt passing lanes.

France continues producing versatile perimeter gamers with NBA potential, and Fall seems to be one other robust instance. His mixture of measurement, athleticism and offensive talent makes him an intriguing long-term prospect.

Crew USA Standouts

Cayden DaughtryPoint Guard | 6’1” | Born: April 10, 2009 | Calvary Christian | USATournament Stats: 11.7 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 4.7 APG, 25 of 44 (56.8%) FG, 9 of 20 (45.0%) 3PT, 23 of 28 (82.1%) FT

Daughtry proved to be one among Crew USA’s most dependable perimeter shooters all through the match. Though he was listed at simply 5-foot-10 by FIBA, he lately measured just below 6 ft barefoot (5-foot-11½), placing him nearer to 6-foot-1 in footwear. Mixed with a strong wingspan and spectacular explosiveness, he possesses higher bodily instruments than his listed top would possibly recommend.

He persistently spaced the ground whereas demonstrating excellent confidence from past the arc. His taking pictures mechanics are basically sound, and he confirmed the flexibility to knock down pictures each off the catch and when defenders went beneath screens. Daughtry linked on 9 of his 20 (45.0%) three-point makes an attempt whereas including 4.7 assists per sport, exhibiting he was able to each creating for teammates and stretching opposing defenses.

Past his taking pictures, Daughtry displayed the poise anticipated from a real lead guard. He made good selections with the basketball, saved the offense organized and persistently performed underneath management. His mixture of shot-making, passing and competitiveness made him one among Crew USA’s steadiest performers all through the occasion.

The largest query surrounding Daughtry shifting ahead is sustained bodily improvement. Whereas further top would all the time be useful, his latest measurements, robust wingspan and elite leaping capability recommend his measurement will not be as limiting as initially believed. He additionally stays one of many youthful gamers in his class and nonetheless has appreciable time to mature bodily.

No matter the place his physique in the end develops, Daughtry’s taking pictures capability, choice making and really feel for the sport make him one of many extra intriguing guards within the 2028 class. Given his talent stage, athleticism and aggressive make-up, he shouldn’t be neglected as a possible one-and-done prospect for the 2028 NBA Draft.

JJ CrawfordGuard | 6’4” | Born: June 5, 2010 | Rainier Seaside Excessive College (Seattle, WA) | USATournament Stats: 3.8 PPG, 1.0 RPG, 1.2 APG, 7 of 17 (41.2%) FG, 5 of 12 (41.7%) 3PT

One of many youngest gamers within the match, Crawford flashed huge long-term upside regardless of enjoying a restricted function on Crew USA’s loaded roster. Born in 2010, he’s nonetheless bodily immature in comparison with most of the older gamers within the subject, making his flashes of brilliance much more encouraging. Regardless of his age, Crawford has already been talked about by some evaluators as a possible future No. 1 prospect in all of highschool basketball, underscoring simply how extremely regarded his long-term expertise is.

Crawford possesses a slick deal with and clean athleticism whereas exhibiting the flexibility to develop right into a dynamic combo guard. His physique nonetheless has appreciable room to develop. Skinny, with lengthy legs and arms at this stage, he seems to have further development forward of him, and his massive ft recommend he may proceed getting greater and stronger over the following a number of years.

Whereas his manufacturing was restricted, that was largely a product of Crew USA’s extraordinary depth slightly than his expertise stage. He merely didn’t obtain the identical alternatives as a few of the older gamers forward of him within the rotation. Crawford stays one of many highest-upside guards within the match and one of many elite prospects in his class. As his physique matures and his alternatives develop, he has the expertise to emerge as one of many headliners of the 2028 NBA Draft class.

Asa MontgomeryWing | 6’6” | Born: July 20, 2009 | Hillgrove Excessive College (Powder Springs, GA) | USATournament Stats: 9.7 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.1 APG, 28 of 42 (66.7%) FG, 2 of 12 (16.7%) 3PT, 10 of 12 (83.3%) FT

Asa Montgomery quietly put collectively one of many extra impactful tournaments for Crew USA, averaging 9.7 factors, 4.4 rebounds and a couple of.1 assists whereas taking pictures an impressive 66.7 % from the sector. Though he wasn’t one of many staff’s major scoring choices, he persistently made successful performs by his vitality, athleticism and defensive versatility, reinforcing his standing as one of many extra intriguing two-way wings within the 2028 class.

Montgomery’s largest energy is his high-level athleticism. An explosive leaper with a robust, well-proportioned body, he thrives within the open flooring the place he can end above the rim with authority. Few gamers had been as harmful in transition, as he routinely turned defensive stops into highlight-reel finishes. He punctuated the gold medal sport in opposition to Serbia with a number of steals that led on to breakaway dunks, showcasing the kind of explosiveness that makes him a relentless risk within the open courtroom. His mixture of burst, energy and physique management permits him to play greater than his measurement and affect the sport with no need performs referred to as for him.

Defensively, Montgomery established himself as one among Crew USA’s most dependable perimeter defenders. He competes on each possession, strikes nicely laterally and has the bodily instruments to defend a number of positions on the wing. His lively fingers generated steals, he persistently made hustle performs and he embraced tough defensive assignments all through the match. His capability to create turnovers and instantly convert them into transition offense provides one other dimension to his worth and highlights the kind of two-way affect he can have.

Offensively, Montgomery was extremely environment friendly attacking the basket, reducing with out the ball and ending across the rim. His outdoors shot stays a piece in progress, as evidenced by his 2-for-12 (16.7 %) efficiency from three-point vary, and lengthening his taking pictures vary shall be an vital space of improvement. Nonetheless, there are encouraging indicators. His mechanics are basically sound, and his 83.3 % free throw taking pictures suggests he has the contact to develop into a dependable perimeter shooter over time. As his vary continues to develop, it ought to open up much more alternatives for him to reap the benefits of his explosive first step and athletic ending capability.

Montgomery’s mixture of elite athleticism, defensive depth and long-term taking pictures potential makes him one of many extra interesting developmental wing prospects within the 2028 class. Whereas his perimeter sport nonetheless has room to develop, his bodily instruments, competitiveness and talent to create spotlight performs in transition give him an especially excessive ceiling on each ends of the ground.

Navarro Bowman Jr.Level Guard | 6’3” | Born: June 3, 2009 | Notre Dame Excessive College | USATournament Stats: 11.9 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 3.6 APG, 37 of 62 (59.7%) FG, 4 of 16 (25.0%) 3PT, 5 of seven (71.4%) FT

Bowman quietly put collectively a wonderful match whereas exhibiting most of the qualities NBA groups worth in lead guards. The son of former San Francisco 49ers All-Professional linebacker NaVorro Bowman, he brings a formidable athletic pedigree together with a refined flooring sport.

Bowman is an impressive ball handler who persistently retains his dribble alive whereas probing the protection. He usually backed defenders down with out choosing up his dribble, forcing assist defenders to commit earlier than discovering open teammates. His courtroom imaginative and prescient and passing instincts stood out all through the match.

He additionally displayed wonderful taking pictures mechanics with a clean, basically sound launch that initiatives nicely as his sport continues to mature. At 6-foot-3, he has an analogous construct and magnificence to Collin Sexton, combining quickness, toughness and an attacking mentality whereas enjoying with the boldness to create offense for each himself and his teammates.

Mixed along with his athleticism, confidence and really feel for the place, Bowman seems to be each bit like a future skilled level guard.

Jordan PageWing | 6’6” | Born: Could 5, 2009 | Broughton Magnet Excessive College (Raleigh, NC) | USATournament Stats: 9.8 PPG, 1.4 RPG, 1.9 APG, 23 of 33 (69.7%) FG, 1 of 4 (25.0%) 3PT, 12 of 12 (100%) FT

Web page quietly put collectively one of many extra environment friendly tournaments on Crew USA’s loaded roster. The left-handed wing combines a sturdy, well-built body with good athleticism and continued to point out why he stays one of many extra intriguing long-term wings within the 2028 class.

Bodily, Web page already possesses an NBA-type construct for a fringe participant. His energy permits him to soak up contact, end by defenders and defend a number of positions. He additionally proved to be a reliable perimeter defender, utilizing his physicality and competitiveness to remain in entrance of ball handlers and contest pictures with out playing.

Offensively, Web page displayed a strong taking pictures stroke and confirmed continued development as a fringe scorer. He performed inside himself, hardly ever forcing tough pictures whereas persistently making the suitable basketball play. Though identified for his energy, he additionally reminded scouts of his athletic capability, throwing down one of many match’s most spectacular dunks in opposition to Japan in a play that highlighted his explosiveness.

Web page might not obtain the identical consideration as a few of Crew USA’s headline prospects, however his mixture of measurement, athleticism, taking pictures capability and defensive versatility offers him a wonderful basis shifting ahead.

Xavier YoungCenter | 6’9” | Born: March 4, 2010 | Religion Household Academy (Dallas, TX) | USATournament Stats: 7.6 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 21 of 27 (77.8%) FG, 11 of 20 (55.0%) FT, 5 BLK

Younger was one of many youngest gamers within the match, having been born in 2010, and his long-term upside stays important. Already possessing a robust body and wonderful size, he has the bodily basis NBA groups covet in a creating frontcourt prospect.

Offensively, Younger stays considerably uncooked. His perimeter taking pictures continues to be creating, however he confirmed the flexibility to attain effectively across the basket by changing 21 of his 27 (77.8%) field-goal makes an attempt, utilizing his measurement, energy and athleticism to persistently end across the rim. As his talent stage continues to enhance, notably going through the basket, his offensive ceiling ought to rise significantly.

Defensively, Younger’s bodily instruments enable him to rebound, defend the rim and compete in opposition to older competitors regardless of making a gift of precious developmental time. He averaged 3.7 rebounds whereas blocking 5 pictures over seven video games, flashing the instincts and size to turn into an impactful inside defender as he continues to mature bodily.

Contemplating his age, Younger stays one among Crew USA’s extra intriguing long-term developmental prospects.

[Player: Erick Dampier] Jr.Heart | 6’9” | Born: October 22, 2009 | Madison-Ridgeland Academy (Madison, MS) | USATournament Stats: 5.0 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 3.3 APG, 17 of twenty-two (77.3%) FG, 1 of 4 (25.0%) FT, 5 BLK

Dampier entered the match as one among Crew USA’s developmental huge males and confirmed flashes of why scouts stay intrigued by his long-term potential. The son of former NBA middle Erick Dampier, he possesses wonderful size and a body that ought to proceed including appreciable energy over the approaching years.

Nonetheless considerably uncooked bodily, Dampier initiatives as extra of a long-term prospect than a direct one-and-done candidate. He seems to be a number of years away from reaching his full potential, along with his physique anticipated to proceed filling out whereas changing into stronger and extra fluid as he matures.

One encouraging facet of his match was his passing. Dampier averaged a formidable 3.3 assists per sport and delivered a number of excellent outlet passes that highlighted his courtroom consciousness and willingness to provoke transition alternatives. Mixed along with his size, rebounding capability and environment friendly ending across the basket, these flashes recommend there may be extra offensive upside than his statistics alone point out.

Dampier seems prone to profit from a number of years of faculty improvement, however his measurement, bodily instruments and enhancing really feel for the sport make him a participant value monitoring over the long run.

Mason CollinsWing | 6’5” | Born: August 20, 2009 | Irmo Excessive College (Columbia, SC) | USATournament Stats: 7.1 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 3.1 APG, 23 of 43 (53.5%) FG, 3 of 14 (21.4%) 3PT, 1 of 1 (100.0%) FT, 2.1 SPG

Collins might not possess the identical elite upside as a few of Crew USA’s headline prospects, however he quietly demonstrated a strong all-around basis all through the match. Standing 6-foot-5, he has good measurement for a wing and performs a basically sound sport constructed round talent and basketball IQ.

His sport brings to thoughts a smaller model of Patrick Baldwin Jr. Collins handles the ball nicely, strikes successfully with out it and displayed a clean taking pictures stroke all through the occasion. Whereas he linked on simply 3 of 14 (21.4%) three-point makes an attempt, his mechanics recommend continued enchancment as he beneficial properties expertise.

Collins additionally made persistently good selections, averaging 3.1 assists whereas enjoying throughout the offense and contributing as a secondary ball handler. Defensively, he was one among Crew USA’s most disruptive perimeter gamers, averaging 2.1 steals per sport because of his instincts, exercise and anticipation. He competes defensively and understands his function, traits coaches persistently worth.

At this stage, Collins seems extra prone to comply with a standard multi-year school path than a direct NBA trajectory. Nonetheless, his mixture of measurement, passing capability, defensive instincts and really feel for the sport offers him a strong long-term basis and makes him a participant value following over the following a number of seasons.