Cartersville, Ga. — Coverage from the inaugural Prep Hoops Next Southeast Kick-Off continues as we dive back in on the 5th Grade Division with another breakdown featuring the top performers in Pool A from the Class of 2028. The competitive…

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Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log inCartersville, Ga. — Coverage from the inaugural Prep Hoops Next Southeast Kick-Off continues as we dive back in on the 5th Grade Division with another breakdown featuring the top performers in Pool A from the Class of 2028. The competitive five-team pairing included Team CP3 (NC) Basketball Academy, Louisville Legends (KY), N.Y.B.A. (TN) Elite, Team Huncho (GA), and Georgia State Warriors. Here’s part two of our four-part series highlighting the best players in attendance…
Jordan Cook | Louisville, KY | Class of 2028
Cook was one of the more promising forwards competing in the Prep Hoops Next Southeast Kick-Off’s fifth-grade division. The 5-foot-6 wing has immense versatility, possessing excellent size and fluidity, as he ran the court with ease and demonstrated the lateral quickness necessary to defend on the perimeter. Offensively, the Kentucky resident excelled in transition, and was at his best attacking the rim as a straight-line slasher in the halfcourt. The potential is certainly there for Cook to become a much more skilled player in due time but his two-way impact on the game should not be underestimated.
Trevor ‘TJ’ Duke | Murfreesboro, TN | Class of 2028
Duke impressed at the Prep Hoops Next Southeast Kick-Off with his all-around craftiness in the backcourt. The N.Y.B.A. (TN) Elite guard flashed quickness and creativity off the bounce, and proved to be a superb ball-handler, as well as a confident scorer. He finished with either hand in transition, and displayed mature feel, exhibiting patience as a passer while also converting a few difficult floaters in the lane. As an example of his advanced game, the Tennessee native masterfully utilized a hesitation dribble in unison with his ability to knock down shots in rhythm, allowing him to keep defenders off-balance throughout the weekend.
Rylan Fitzwater | Canton, GA | Class of 2028
The son of former IUPUI standout Josh Fitzwater, the bloodlines are surely in place for the 5-foot-3 perimeter player to continue stretching out, and ultimately develop into a Division I prospect in his own right. Playing with the Georgia State Warriors at the Prep Hoops Next Southeast Kick-Off, Fitzwater impressed with his general unselfishness and willingness to find ways to contribute. Capable of playing both guard and forward positions, as his confidence and aggressiveness ramp up, it will fun to watch the talented swingman consistently put his variety of talents to use.
Mike-E Holloway | La Vergne, TN | Class of 2028
Holloway is exceptionally quick and possesses a fearless mentality, which resulted in him being one of the most assertive players among the fifth-graders participating in the Prep Hoops Next Southeast Kick-Off. The pint-sized point guard played in constant attack mode, imposing his will on opponents by forcing tempo with the ball in his hands, and consistently beating defenders off the bounce. He’s got wiggle off the dribble, and once in the lane, Holloway displayed promising touch with his midrange jumper. His active hands and feet in addition to his ability to anticipate defensively make him a terror on that end of the floor.
Kemontez Holman | Nashville, TN | Class of 2028
It should be clear from this article that N.Y.B.A. (TN) Elite had one of the most talented fifth-grade backcourts at the Prep Hoops Next Southeast Kick-Off. In addition to his aforementioned teammates, Holman was another prospect that caught my eye for the Tennessee-based club based on his substantial upside. His physical profile is impressive, as the 5-foot-5 guard has excellent length, and is an impactful athlete. A confident ball-handler, he appeared comfortable on the perimeter, showcasing range on his jumper while excelling as a finisher in the open floor.
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