Game after game players from the 13U greatly impressed with their play at the Generation Next Invitational. In addition to the top performers and stock boosters from the age group, here are several others that greatly impressed. 

LaValle Cade – 2028 – G – Gain Elite

Along with Taaj Whitlock, Cade formed one of the top backcourts of the tournament. Just like Whitlock, Cade had himself a 30-point game. A tough playmaker who excels with the ball and was unstoppable for long stretches of games. He was able to get to the basket whenever he wanted, finishing in traffic or getting to the line as well as hitting a few shots off the dribble from the outside. 

Kellan Larkin – 2028 – G/F – RAS Bucks

Larkin impressed over the course of multiple games and was a prominent reason the RAS Bucks advanced all the way to the semifinals. He is a very tough and energetic on ball defender who can shut down opposing guards and forwards and was getting plenty of steals. He plays with great energy and was constantly making plays. More than just a defender, he also hit  a few outside shots and scored it going strong all the way to the basket. 

Amarion Smith-Holley – 2028 – G – Peoria Pride

The guard had a big Sunday helping the Peoria Pride reach the title game. He scored 20 points in the semifinals and then 14 in the championship game up against the top teams on the 13U level. Smith-Holley has a great combination of handle and moves to breakdown defenders and get plenty of paint touches. He plays with good toughness finishing strong around the paint for his size but also passed it well on the move. 

Zen Szaferski – 2028 – G – Focus Premier

One of the more skilled two-way guards at the 13U level for a very good Focus team. A very tough on ball defender who is also a skilled distributor. He plays with great defensive intensity getting all over the ball with his quickness. A good decision maker with the ball with good vision. Whether it be in space or coming off screens, Szaferski was often getting into the defense and distributing the ball. 

Andrew Thierer – 2028 – G – Chapman Basketball Academy

One of the more well-rounded and impactful guards at the 13U level. While Thierer may not stand out with any one ability on the court, he plays very hard and can do a bit of everything on the court. He scores it strong going to the basket, can be a primary ball handler, is a tough and versatile defender, and rebounds very well for a guard.