Winter Haven, Fla. — The lights came on early at the AdventHealth Fieldhouse and Conference Center on Saturday and play at the Prep Hoops Next Rumble Under The Palms continued well into the evening as the event series made its return to the Southeast region. Here are a few of the players that logged memorable performances at the event’s opening day…
Brodey Cuffle | Lutz, FL | Class of 2026
Terry Drake’s take: Cuffle showed his ability to put up numbers on Day 1 at Rumble Under The Palms. He is a very instinctive player, moves well without the ball, and his all-around efficiency was an important resource for his team throughout the first day, especially when it came to his scoring.
Spencer Pulliam’s take: Cuffle has the size, skill, and pedigree that typically indicate success at the next level. The 6-foot-4 forward was efficient with his scoring opportunities but his all-around contributions without the ball were most noteworthy. At this stage, he can play inside or on the perimeter, and displayed a willingness to do both for his team. Despite a frustrating day for his squad as far as win-loss record was concerned, Cuffle remained even-keeled with his approach, and consistently competed.
Keron Johnson | Jacksonville, FL | Class of 2025
Terry Drake’s take: This young man showed a knack for scoring on Day 1 at Rumble Under The Palms. His size and ability to get to the rim was a constant challenge for defenders. His ability to finish at the rim was exciting and among the best of the day.
Spencer Pulliam’s take: Johnson relocated to Florida from Tennessee only a few months ago and is clearly a major addition to the Southeast Elite (FL) eighth-grade roster. The 6-foot-5 wing has the athleticism to play above the rim and the blossoming skill set to create his own offense. His most impressive moments came with the ball in his hands and Johnson’s 23-point performance against the CSU Kings (FL) on Saturday showed a glimpse of what could be in store in the future.
Maddox Palmer | Ponte Vedra Beach, FL | Class of 2026
Terry Drake’s take: Maddox Palmer continues to develop into an offensive threat from every area of the floor. On opening day, at times he made it look way too easy, scoring at will. He was extremely efficient with his offensive opportunities.
Spencer Pulliam’s take: Palmer’s size and skill level immediately jump out among his seventh-grade peers. The 6-foot-2 perimeter prospect provided one of the more impressive offensive outputs on the day, scoring 25 points versus the Self Made Ballers (AL), in addition to his 17 point performance against the St. Cloud Rampage (FL). Each resulted in convincing wins for his club.
Jai Richburg | Greensboro, NC | Class of 2026
Terry Drake’s take: He was a steady presence for his team on Day 1 at Rumble Under The Palms. He exemplified a high-motor throughout the day, ignited his team throughout Saturday’s contests, and has them ready for bracket play.
Spencer Pulliam’s take: Richburg’s motor landed him on this list among the most impactful players on opening day at Rumble Under The Palms. The 6-foot-1 forward was easily one of the top rebounders in the seventh-grade division and was also a leading scorer for his team. The Carolina Stars (CSB Elite – NC) ended the day unbeaten, with a 3-0 record, and will advance into the platinum division championship round tomorrow.
Chris Washington | Gainesville, FL | Class of 2026
Terry Drake’s take: Chris Washington was an absolute beast on opening day. He dominated the low black, as well as showed his ability to play on the perimeter and was effective knocking down perimeter shots, while taking defenders off the bounce.
Spencer Pulliam’s take: Not only is the 6-foot-5 forward one of the top players in the state of Florida, his talents should be recognized on the national level in the Class of 2026. Washington is a prototypical stretch four-man with elite physical attributes. As exciting as his potential is, the young prospect is already productive, and significantly impacts the game on both ends of the floor for his team. He logged a pair of double-doubles in the scoring and rebounding columns and should have his club in championship contention as the event concludes.
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