The annual Generation Next Invitational hit the courts in Wisconsin earlier this month and while the 7th and 8th grade divisions were hot, there were some talented up and coming 5th & 6th graders that stood out as well. Here’s a quick look at 5 elite performers in those age groups from earlier this month through Brian Terrell’s eyes…
Brayden Harris – Guard – Flight Academy – Harris was in complete control all weekend for his team. He attacked the basket and scored at will and made the right passes to wide open teammates when the defense collapsed around him. He showed the ability to get to his spots and knock down clutch shots when needed. His best game of the weekend was a 22-point effort in a quarterfinal win.
Tristan Lowery – Wing – Louisville Legends – Lowery is pretty long and athletic for his age and it showed in his play this weekend. He used his height to control the inside game and score over defenders. He showed a quick first step driving to the basket and also used his length to alter shots defensively.
Sentrall Gray – Guard – Martin Brothers – A smooth playmaking point guard, Gray controlled the tempo for his team in the games on championship Sunday. He got his teammates the ball in positions to score often which led to easy buckets. Defensively, he guarded the opposing teams ball handlers full court, making them work extremely hard to get into an offensive flow.
Logan Collins – Guard – HKBT – Collins is a quick, elusive, exciting point guard at his young age. He has a very high IQ and rarely puts himself in bad positions on the floor. He always has his head up in transition, looking to make the pass to an open teammate. What impressed me the most was his ability to get down him and absorbed contact and still finish with scores.
Cash Meyers – Forward – Bombers Elite – Cam would be my vote for MVP of this division. He powered his way to multiple impressive games, leading his team to the 12U championship. He showed very good positioning and footwork down low for a player his age. Meyers had games of 18, 19 and 23 to completely dominate championship Sunday.