The Basketball Spotlight Super Showcase Session 2 was loaded with talent and new faces. Here’s our first look at the Class of 2025.
Basketball Spotlight Super Showcase Session 2 8th Grade Top Performers Part 1
Tyler McQuaid Guard (Maywood, NJ)- McQuaid had to get mentally prepared on his way down from North Jersey because once he hit that Fidonce Gym in Philly it was on and popping. He attacked defenders like it was the NBA Finals. Tyler plays with a burst on energy that allows him to score, dish the rock while commanding attention on the floor. He stepped into the Spotlight relished the moment.
Warren Keel Guard (Lynn, MA)- Keel was awesome on Sunday. The legit floor general plays with the mannerism beyond his years. He attacks various ways on the offensive end with dribble drives, court vision and finishing off plays. He plays with game with a Gary Payton type of swagger. He was seen grinning at defenders after scoring or driving passed them.
Sean Thomas Guard (New Rochelle, NY)- Thomas brought his Gauchos game down to the Super Showcase. He spent the first showing some flashes but really picked it up in the second stanza. When you have dribble skills, size and scoring ability you could be a matchup problem for anyone. This kid like most Big Apple Ballers never lacks confidence.
Ethan Hillsman Forward (Cos Cob, CT)- Hillsman's game is not conventional but very effective. He uses his high motor to attack the rim and handle the rock. When he got in traffic he was usually leaning but was still able to score. His passionate approach should be help a high school coach down the line.
Connor Sprattley Guard (Brooklyn, NY)- Brooklyn has another young point guard in the making in Sprattley. His smoothness when putting the rock on the deck stands out and his ability to finish among the trees. Connor’s array of dribbling moves made it impossible to keep him out the lane. On occasion he also displayed his court vision with some impressive dimes.
Luke Melniczak Guard (Langhorne, PA)- Melniczak spent the first few minutes getting his feet wet in this type on environment. Then once he hit his first pull up jumper it was on. The lefty can get it done from all three levels and really knows how to fill the lane in transition. He was a quiet assassin for the rest of the day. We look forward to seeing more of his game soon.
Christian Nicholson Guard (Minehill, NJ)- Don’t let the innocent face fool you, this guard will destroy anything in front of him. He has a mean handle, court vision and mid-range pull up. Defenders tried rattling or running up on the Nicholson and got their feelings hurt. He breakdown moves were on full display.
Jamari Robinson Guard (Holbrook, MA)- This kid reminds me of Philly HS legend DJ Rivera in terms of physical likeness and game. Robinson gets after it hard on both ends. He pressed the rock all day and got out in transition for buckets. He’s one of the most athletic players in the building. Good luck trying to slow this kid down.
