2023: Big Shots Nationals, Part II
The 2023 class was out to prove themselves at Big Shots Nationals this past weekend. Here’s a look at Part II of the 2023 standouts. Nick Elliott Nick Elliott 6'4" | SF Grimsley | 2023 State NC | 6’4 Guard…
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Continue ReadingThe 2023 class was out to prove themselves at Big Shots Nationals this past weekend. Here’s a look at Part II of the 2023 standouts.
Nick Elliott Nick Elliott 6'4" | SF Grimsley | 2023 State NC | 6’4 Guard | Basketpoint USA
Elliot is an emerging prospect at 6-foot-4 with a ton of promise getting to the rim and shooting the basketball. He was impressive in their run to the 16U Red title as he showed off his ability to score it on all three levels. He put up 17.3 ppg including 26 points in the title game. He was quite the 1-2 combination alongside Gio Nannucci Gio Nannucci 6'4" | SF Southeast Guilford | 2023 State NC in the backcourt.
Jessie Mitchell Jessie Mitchell 6'4" | SG Grace Christian (Sanford) | 2022 State NC | 6’4 Guard/Wing | Strong Center
Mitchell was another pivotal player in Strong Center ‘s run to the 16U Orange crown. He put up his best numbers of 27 points and 26 points in the semifinals and final game of the event, including the game-winner in Sudden Death to seal the title. He finished the weekend with 19.3 ppg, third in the division. He’s a solid scoring threat on all three level that uses his size and strength well to get to his spots on the floor.
Collin Kuhl Collin Kuhl 6'8" | SF Holly Springs | 2023 State NC | 6’7 Wing/Forward | Strong Center
Kuhl was a solid late addition to the Strong Center rotation and proved to be a solid outlet on the perimeter given his ability to shoot the ball and rebound on both ends. He capped off a solid weekend with a 22-point, 7-rebound outing in the title game as they took home the 16U Orange crown. He finished with 18.5 ppg at Big Shots Nationals and is just scratching the surface of his potential on both ends.
Josiah Watkins Josiah Watkins 6'3" | PG Piedmont Classical | 2023 State NC | 6’3 Point Guard | NL Disciples Elite
Watkins was impressive at getting to his spots on the floor for buckets and didn’t hesitate to look to get others involved when the defense dropped their guard. He’s a long guard prospect at 6-foot-3 that’s slowly finding his way as a two-way threat on the floor. He put up 12.5 ppg while showing off his ability to distribute the ball as well.
Ryan Steger Ryan Steger 6'2" | SG James River (Buchanan) | 2023 State VA | 6’2 Shooting Guard | VA Havoc Roanoke
Steger is one of the top shooters in the 2023 class in Virginia. He showed off his ability to knock down shots with efficiency all weekend long, knocking down 25 3-pointers across four games while leading the 16U Orange Division in total points (97) and finishing second in scoring average (24.3 ppg). He’s a prospect that continues to show his growth as a top shooter in Virginia’s 2023 class.
Fred Whitaker Fred Whitaker 5'11" | PG Northwood | 2024 State NC | 5’10 Point Guard | Chapel Hill Blue Flames (2024)
Whitaker played a pivotal role in the Blue Flames’ run to the 16U Blue title, especially in the championship game as he came up with two key steals then capped it off with some clutch free throws to seal a comeback victory for his squad. He’s a tough floor general that leads by example. He can knock down shots when needed and makes plays for others as well. It’s worth noting he played up while being a member of NC’s 2024 class as well.