Bruce’s Best: Midseason Awards Impact Freshmen
In this article:
The season is in full swing and has already had a ton of fabulous performances. While technically it’s still early, several players have stepped up to steal the spotlight. Perhaps the story of the year has been the emergence of…
Access all of Prep Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingThe season is in full swing and has already had a ton of fabulous performances. While technically it’s still early, several players have stepped up to steal the spotlight. Perhaps the story of the year has been the emergence of young players. Several freshmen have not only contributed but have had an impact on their club. In this article, we take a look at our midseason impact freshmen.
Chris Nwuli Chris Nwuli 6'7" | SF Wasatch Academy | 2025 State #38 Nation UT 6’6 SF Bishop Gorman 2025 (#2) – As good as Nwuli is, there was no way I thought he would have an impact this early on a loaded Gaels squad. I was wrong. Despite seeing limited minutes the freshman has been sensational. Nwuli is the epitome of the phrase “That’s what they look like” However he is much more than a physical specimen. He has impacted games with his defense, rebounding, and overall energy and effort, en route to exceeding the expectations put on him.
Conner Sheets Conner Sheets 6'1" | CG Spanish Springs | 2025 CA-N 6’1 CG Spanish Springs (#16) – IMO Kyle Penny is one of the best coaches in the state, so when he speaks highly about a freshman, I listen. Sheets has been that freshman for him this year. His skill set consists of an advanced handle, good IQ, and tough shot-making ability The Combo guard has been asked to shoulder a heavy load for SS, and he has not only steadied the ship but corrected it, helping the Cougars to an undefeated League start.
Roderick Johnson Roderick Johnson 5'10" | PG Somerset Losee | 2025 State NV 5’5 SG Somerset Losee (#29) (featured image) – Johnson is quickly approaching must-see status. The diminutive guard is one of the top shooters in the state and has been deadly accurate this season for Losee. His nickname “quick” fits perfectly as he has an explosive first step, which allows him to freeze defenders and create space for his quick release jumper.
Mason Brown Mason Brown 6'1" | PG Durango | 2025 CA-S 6’2 PG Durango (#1) – Brown has been the steady hand for the Trailblazers. He has been asked to both handle and score and has been up to the task for both. He has shown the ability to knock down open threes as well as get into the lane and score, all while leading one of the state’s top programs.
Jevon Yapi Jevon Yapi 6'0" | PG Red Rock | 2025 State #379 Nation NV 5’10 PG Durango (#3) – Yapi has been as entertaining as advertised. The jitterbug PG has shown much improved three-point shooting, which has only opened the floor for his driving. Yapi possesses one of the best handles and wiggles anywhere on the West Coast regardless of class and has used it to put together a growing collection of highlight-type moves.
Tayshaun Jackson Tayshaun Jackson 5'7" | PG Las Vegas | 2025 State NV 5’5 PG Las Vegas (#27) – Jackson will be on my All tough guy team for sure. The PG backs down from no one and is one of the best on-ball defenders in the state regardless of class. I knew he could do those things, what I didn’t know was how good he was at scoring the ball. Jackson has played in every game for the top-ranked Wildcats and is averaging nearly 10 points per.
Julius Robinson Julius Robinson 5'11" | SG Silverado | 2025 State NV 5’11 SG Silverado (#13) – Robinson has thrown his hat into the ring as one of the top Power Guards in the state. The lefty who I affectionately have nicknamed NASCAR has figured out that if they can’t stop it, keep doing it. When he gets to his strong hand downhill, he has been dominant, and his ability to provide an additional scoring punch will go a long way in determining the success of the Skyhawks.
Follow