GameChangers: Playing Up
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There’s nothing like matching up with a good player and then finding out they’re younger than you. Stories like that inspired this article. Its filled with guys playing up an age group even two and making a difference for their teams. Below are 6 prospects that played big roles against older competition.
Dwight Carter Team Strive Elite 16U
Carter was one of the best finishing guards in 16U. He’s hot off his freshman season but draws fouls like a seasoned varsity player. Every move Carter makes is to get downhill where his layup package takes over in crowded painted areas. He’s highly efficient on all areas of the floor. Carter can finish above the rim on the break as a six-footer with a solid frame.
Thomas Cole NEB Elite 16U
Cole dialed it in from behind the line in every single game. The 2024 prospect has deep range on catch and shoot opportunities. He shot over 40% from beyond the arc, in 4 games shooting over 4 threes a game. Cole uses his quickness to score on drives and in transition. He’s a solid playmaker whose scoring opens up passing lanes for teammates.
TJ Boyd Metro Elite 17U
Boyd shot well from the floor. The 2024 prospect is a knockdown catch and shoot threat from deep. He scores off one dribble pull-ups and gets to the rim. Boyd finds ways to score in Metro Elite’s well spaced offense.
Adrian Moore Adrian Moore 6'1" | CG SLMA! Tampa | 2024 State FL Anger Management 17U
Moore put up impressive numbers as a sophomore playing 17U. He’s a shotmaker that can find open looks within the flow of the offense. When he wants to take over a game, he can create shots for himself in the midrange. Moore had 30+ in an overtime win against a scrappy NoSleep Sports.
Ladainian Brooks Ladainian Brooks 6'6" | SF Elite Academy | 2025 State FL Team Wright 17U
Brooks’ long 6’6 frame allowed him to play 17U as a 2025 prospect. He creates contact and finishes against the bigger bodies of the division. Brooks rebounds well on the offensive end and is always ready to go back up with force. The forward flashed shotmaking with a fluid post fadeaway jumper.
Kerry Parks Athletes of Influence 15U
The incoming freshman was one of the better athletes on the floor for 15U. Parks already has the physicality needed to survive the high school ranks. He makes plays on the defensive end that turns into transition opportunities. His middle school tape is filled with him getting above the rim.
Javien Sapienza PSL Heat 17U
Sapienza was a true points guard that can create for himself. He scored in the paint several times with different finishes. The 2024 prospect knocked down a pair of threes to bring his total to 14 points against a hard playing Anger management team. Pace and playmaking are the names of the game for Sapienza.