The Next Level Basketball Academy 13U: Breakdown
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This talented team saw loads of success throughout the AAU season. They made it to 3 different Championships this spring/summer. The Next Level Basketball Academy (NLBA) 13U team had excellent guard play and was competitive at every event, despite never…
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Continue ReadingThis talented team saw loads of success throughout the AAU season. They made it to 3 different Championships this spring/summer. The Next Level Basketball Academy (NLBA) 13U team had excellent guard play and was competitive at every event, despite never having their full squad at a single tournament. NLBA was led by a young up-n-coming coach, Tyrell Rodriguez who is passionate about the game and truly enjoyed coaching this 13U team. This team was made up of a combination of Minnesota and North Dakota players. Look below for the NLBA roster and player comments.
The Next Level Basketball Academy 13U
Michael Hollcraft Michael Hollcraft 5'11" | PG Shanley | 2027 State ND |5’6 G| Shanley
He is a floor general and a leader. Mike is extremely coachable and he has a bright future. Hollcraft can also create his own shot. As a PG, he never became frazzled when the defense applied pressure. He was a fun player to coach for the NLBA staff. His competitiveness rubbed off on his teammates and he made the team better. Keep track of this young PG!
Isaiah Bliss |5’6 G| Bemidji
He is a scrappy and coachable player. Bliss is a knockdown 3-shooter. Over the AAU season, Isaiah improved his handles and decision-making. He bought into the NLBA expectations and his game saw improvement. Bliss is a committed player, that asks questions, is a good listener, and responds well. Coaches love players like Bliss.
Christian Shouse |5’10 SF| Detroit Lakes
He caused matchup problems for opposing teams. Shouse is a “stretch 4” that can shoot the 3 and penetrate for buckets. He has the athletic ability to grab a defensive rebound and lead the break going the other way. Christian is a smart defender that can block shots and keep the ball in play. He is a high NRG player that has a passion and desire to get better at hoops. This Laker has potential, he truly cares about getting better, and he is a competitor.
Anthony Brackins Anthony Brackins 5'8" | CG West Fargo | 2027 State ND |5’6 G| West Fargo
He was the best athlete on this NLBA squad. Brackins is a scrappy athlete on both ends of the floor. He can grab a rebound and score by going coast-to-coast. Anthony is a great rebounder for a guard. As the season moved along, Brackins began to understand when to attack in the half-court. Opposing defenders struggled to keep Anthony in front. Brackins will be an exciting player as he continues to grow and improve his game.
Mason Leiser |5’6 G| Moorhead
He was the best spot-up 3-point shooter for NLBA. Mason moves well without the ball and he reacts to his defender. This kid can hot and light it up. In Omaha, Leiser made 5 three-pointers in a single game. That is impressive for a player only going into 8th grade.
Landon Hanson |5’3 G| West Fargo Sheyenne
He is a scrappy guard that leaves it all on the floor. Hanson is very coachable and he is a great listener. He was a standout defender in the half-court for NLBA. On offense, Landon stood out when running the floor and scoring in transition.
Payton Lochthowe |6’0 PF| West Fargo Sheyenne
This kid has tremendous upside as a ballplayer. Payton played the “5” spot for NLBA. He did a nice job of protecting the rim and altering shots. Lochthowe finishes with a nice touch around the rim and he grew a couple of inches over the season. Keep your eyes on this young Mustang.
Joey Mclaughlin |5’6 G| Shanley
He is another great kid to have in the program. Joey is a solid defender that can get the job done vs the 2, 3, and 4 positions. He was effective in the catch-n-shoot game from beyond the arc. Mclaughlin really developed his confidence throughout the season and he should come into the school season ready to make some noise.
Enoch Orukotan |5’6 G| Fargo Davies
He is a combo-guard that can run the 1 and play on the wing. When attacking, Enoch is creative off the bounce. He stood out by catching, ripping, taking one or two dribbles and pulling up for a smooth J. He is a knockdown shooter from mid-range, and Orukotan finishes well in transition. Not only that, he is a coachable player that listens and responds well. Enoch is a great kid to have in the program for NLBA.