OTR Houston Fall Shootout Weekend

The time has come where we get basketball every week. Fall leagues are taking place during the week, and shootout tournaments are happening on the weekend. OTR was excited to finally host some of the best teams and players in the city. Some of these were teams’ first change getting in on some full game action. Some just another opportunity to get better as a team. We saw a lot of talented teams, and players. I watched from sun up to sun down, even the JV games. Might not have seen every single kid or team, but that’s okay I can only speak on what I saw. I have some new “positions” attached, that are what I describe as ‘player types’… trying something new. If you have questions about what that is feel free to ask. I will be introducing a series later in the week called “It’s About Need” that highlights the best players in specific player types which I feel most coaches would say they “need.”

Anyway, these are some players and teams that stood out to me.

 

PLAYERS

Jaxon Olvera 6’4 | New Caney 2023, Scoring Handler

Olvera was probably the event’s top scorer. He exploded for a 40-point game on Day 2! Olvera has shown progression from year to year- most noticeably is in his handle. His tactful handle allowed him to create opportunities all over the floor from all levels. 3/4 level scorer. Always known as a shooter from 3pt; but made simple 1 & 2 dribble pull ups; showed some very skilled finishes around the rim; and made free throws. He also showed how good of an athlete he is by getting out for multiple dunks per game. Showing a good understanding of the game, he even played out of the mid post via post touches and off his dribble drives. 40 is 40, and we always say we want kids to dominate and be productive, especially depending on the competition. Jaxon’s test will be making sure he does it as well in the “big time” matchups.

Jason Scott 6’3 | Westbury Christian 2025, Athletic Slashing Wing

Jason’s best quality is his understanding of how to cut and slash into open space and into the lane. Moves very well without the ball and keeping the defense trying to chase him. He sprints and run the floor hard. Capitalized on his open 3s. His slashes and drives were very strong. You can tell he’s maturing or been in the weight room. His speed and athleticism is what allows him to be so impactful. You have to locate him off the ball – box him out so he doesn’t create extra opportunities via offensive rebounds – closeout tight. And he is a kid who wants to play defense. Strong defender who can stifle handlers, and agile enough to stick with guys who have wiggle. My challenge for Jason is to continue to refine his dribble skills so that he can be more effective as a primary ball handler, especially if he remains 6’3.

Brunel Stewart 6’3 | Tomball 2023, True PG

This was a kid I had never seen before. But he definitely left me interested to watch more. A transfer from Northland Christian, kid can really play. He has a pretty smooth stroke. Every game I watched he knocked down 3s. As the main ball handler for Tomball, they like to move the ball, but he also understood when it was his time to attack. Has a tight quick handle, complimented with a burst that gets him by defenders. Overall great decision maker, didn’t force much of anything, always looking to make the right kick out or basketball play. Didn’t see any in game dunks, but was able to see what type of athleticism he has in the warmups… and he’s got some real bounce. He will be a great addition for the cougars. What I want to see more of from him is, as a decision maker continue to trust his instincts and be aggressive to make more positive plays.

Jordan Conner 6’4 | Tomball 2024, Spacing Forward

Tomball went 3-0 in our OTR Fall Shootout, so they must’ve been doing something right. Jordan Conner was one of the main reasons why. He handled the ball extremely well in open space and transition; often times creating early offense, or initiating the half court actions. Deceptively nifty with his movements and agility. Made really good passes, and good decisions- where to go with the ball, where to look, where to space to. Good off ball movement turned into him getting open for a lot of catch & shoot 3s; where he excelled and knocked them down. Has some leadership qualities that he should look to really try to grow in, so long as he maintains discipline and maturity. Tomball will need it in order to keep their competitive edge.

Bryson Wheatfall 6’4 | St Pius X 2025, Scoring Handler

Bryson is a super interesting prospect. He gets bigger and stronger every year. He has measurables (hops, wingspan, hands). And the mechanics of his game and skill all look solid. Whenever school season comes around he always looks super impactful. He rebounded well. Killed in transition with some big time dunks. He plays physical on offense and defense. Gets lots of reps as the primary ball handler. He definitely looks the part. What I see from Bryson that he needs to improve on is: sometimes when you’re bigger stronger faster you tend to want to lean on those attributes to dominate. And a lot of times it works. But he will need to have some concentrated effort on making the game easy for himself- countering the defense, challenging himself to make more & more smart decisions when attacking, and just doing all of these things consistently vs anyone. He is more than capable!

 Justin Begg 5’9 | Bellaire Episcopal 2024, True PG

A lot of people slight Justin because of his size. But what he may not have in height, he makes up for in an elite skill set. I have always said that Justin Begg is top 5 pure skill in Texas regardless of class. Quietly Justin has long arms that help make him really hard to guard, especially when he starts to bring out his hesi bag. Over the weekend, he had several good finishes around the rim. He knows the proper read and move to do in every situation. People will always try to go at Justin because they feel they’re better- so what was pleasant to me to see was his fiery spirit and intent. As he played you could see the intent he had to make the other team look foolish. Even defensively he showed the intent that he did not want to get scored. Finally after watching him get double teamed, pressed, face guarded vs Dickinson I was thinking he might relent to the pressure maybe even due to fatigue. But no he kept his team in the game handling the ball under immense pressure for essentially an entire game. His team has taken a hit, and dropped in level, but he will have his hands full every night trying to help them win! This weekend was good reps for Begg. Scored the ball well all weekend, every game over double digits, finished one game with 25p.

Tres Luzey 6’2 | Woodlands Christian 2024, Scoring Handler

Tres went from one green school to the other.. transfer from John Cooper.. Tres is looking to see how he can make his impact. His pace and running the floor with speed stood out the most. He made it hard for teams to keep up with him. Used his quick and sharp fakes to get into the paint. Made shots. And most importantly didn’t back down from a matchup. Woodlands Christian shared the ball well and that freed up a lot of open driving angles and space for Tres to operate and convert on his opportunities. Consistency, control, and good decision making wil be what Tres needs to pride himself on making sure he continues to do.

Corey Hadnot II 6’3 | Cy Creek 2023, Scoring Handler

The Purdue Ft Wayne commit definitely looked the part. Strong frame, burst, speed. This year Hadnot will take on nearly 32 minutes of primary ball handling duties. Over the weekend what we saw from Corey was a balanced attack. A lot of games he would start of trying to get his teammates involved in the flow of the game. Turning down shots, to make kick out passes pitch ups, etc. He was a killer in transition all weekend showing off his speed getting downhill and to the rim. If you are backpedaling while he was pushing at you, you can count the bucket because he’s too strong too fast too skilled. Showed his explosion for a few nice dunks during the week. One of the best things Corey does is on ball defense. He has all the tools to be a big time defensive stopper on the ball- and he showed that this weekend. Hadnot surely is the best defender in the city. Hadnot will have to continue to focus on how to control the game to what he wants it to be… when to insert himself and pick up the slack, when to keep teammates locked in through leadership, how to pick his spots and not overexert himself. It’s all about balance.

Devon Pryor 6’6 | PSAT 2024, True PG

I believe Pryor has the instincts, the vision, understands decision making, and all the intangibles that would allow for him to be a PG. May be more on the slashing wing side right now. But it’s all about timing and work. Potentially one of THE top 2024 prospects in the state God willing. The best ability is availability, so hopefully that is the timing he is on now. I saw leadership in his communication with his teammates on both ends of the floor. Knows his assignments and his strengths, doesn’t overcomplicate things. He was great as a rebounder. He saw the floor and made several crisp dime dropping passes. Active hands on the defensive side. Totally engaged and vocal. Made a few spot up jumpers, want to see that continue. I would love to see Pryor continue to build on his handling skill/moves and show more breakdown ability as a primary handler, more paint touches. That will increase his stock exponentially.

Keylon Dorsey 6’4 | Eisenhower 2023, Scoring Handler

Keylon can really wow you with some of the things he can do on the floor. All the mechanics in his game look great and you can tell he has it in him. Shot looks pretty, and he knocks down open 3s and tough 3s, open middys and tough middys. He’s got some wiggle off the bounce. Extreme athlete… he had a dunk this weekend where he full court pushed and pretty much took off from the volleyball line no exaggeration. Defends and rebounds well as a guard. The most intriguing part about Dorsey, is that he quietly has a natural instinct to make passes. A person who has passing instincts always is a good sign of someone who has understanding. Keylon still hasn’t reached the best he can be, IF he is a true worker. If he is like I believe him to be his best days are ahead. What I would like to see is Dorsey polishing up his game more in terms of: learning various finishing solutions around the rim; various mid range moves to get away from the defense; knowing his counters off his live ball attack. He’s still blooming as a player for sure.

Jesse Fuller 6’6 | Concordia Lutheran 2023, Athletic Utility Forward

Jesse has always been a good athlete, who’s not afraid to mix it up and scrap with guys. But where he kind of plateaued at was his production and being able to ramp it up. You can tell Fuller made a concentrated effort to show why Concordia should still be on people’s minds amidst all the changes in the district and at his school. Jesse played with intent, fire, passion, and a sense of urgency. Elite tall up defender. Can rebound the ball and push it off the rim to start offense. Definitely reminded some guys that he is ATHLETIC and will very well put you on a poster. The key to Jesse’s success and Concordia’s success will be Jesse asserting his dominance from start to finish. No 8 point 7 rebound games. Everything must be 15+ points and 9+ rebounds if he wants to remain competitive.

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Julius Crosby 6’3 & Quinton Sanders 6’2 | Wheatley 2023 & 2025, Scoring Handlers

-Julius Crosby was being his usual self. Not a single bit shy of any look at the basket, and not a single sign of wavering confidence. Crosby feels he can create on anybody and when he sees space and opportunity he is going to take advantage of it. It’s hard to keep him in front with his twitchy quick handle, so he was able to get tons of layups, and also deep 3s. However, the biggest difference in his game was his athleticism!! I had never seen him like this before. And he’s dunking with ease, and catching bodies! If you really understand difficulty, then you know dunking right foot right hand is insanely hard, not even many freak athletes can do it smoothly, let alone catch a body. He is a captivating player for sure, and he’s get at you all game long and can score in bunches. I would like to see him hone in on his shot selection a little more and not settle for deep 3s as frequently- just get to the spot you want and create for team or yourself

-Quinton Sanders on the other hand I had never seen before, and he was pretty crafty with his handle. Changes direction well, and is able to create space for his shot. He also shoots it really well and can also shoot it from deep. A hard guard that can get really get to spots and create offense for the team. He was not hesitant nor was he shy about his game either. I’d be curious to see the progression from year to year with this kid. I haven’t seen much of him, but this backcourt could prove to either be a really long night of defensive focus, or a long of being put on a highlight tape.

TEAMS

Dawson Eagles

Dawson came to play on Day 1. Probably the biggest surprise to most out of the whole event. But when you sit down and watch you can rest assured that there is no surprise aout what they have cooking. Transfer from Alvin, ’23 True PG Kendrick Bailey added a totally new dynamic to the team giving them another True PG ball handler to go along with key senior returner Jaden Miller. Bailey’s lightning speed, insane insticts, defensive presence, shotmaking, and leadership were clear for this group over the weekend.  True PG Jaden Miller looked like his usual speedy self. Pacing the engine of the team. Constantly setting teammates up and putting pressure on the defense making it collapse. Would have liked to see his shot falling more like we’re accustomed to, but always been a shooter though I’m sure he will get it back. Dawson looked like they were in mid-season form with how in sync they were. Passing and catching was really impressive to see guys find the open space, and the pass to get there on time on target no deflections. Even in a zone. Who is working zone offense at this time? Maybe they are, but the fact they were able to operate smoothly in was good to see. You can tell they knew what they wanted to do offensively- moving the ball, stagger screens, looking for post entries. Defense all they did was compete to their abilities. Played extremely hard, showed grit and toughness, and didn’t back down from a challenge. Their commitment to box outs and effort on rebounding was a big part of their success. ’23 Utility Forward Keshawn Cotton held the paint down. He was an exceptional effort, hustle, and rebound guy. Often rebounding out of his range and vs much bigger guys. ’23 Slashing Wing Larry Lyons was a slashing nightmare. His dunks were thunderous and he caught some mean bodies. He added a defensive presence on ball and on rebounds. Larry also helped with scoring duties scoring double digits in multiple games. ’26 Devan Brown came in and played his role seamlessly. Has a good shot, and made a couple here and there; as he gets adjusted to the speed he will be fine. Didn’t make bad decisions or many turnovers. Played really hard, diving on the floor. As a role player he starred in his role and will have a bright future- especially being a coach’s son. The biggest thing I could see Dawson potentially needing to improve on is their consistency in their perimeter shooting- but especially when the guards are under heavy pressure and aren’t able to get clean looks. That is the type of game that may slow them down or stop them from playing their game. Dawson went 2-1 in OTR shootout all without their main big Charles Anderson (football). Once he’s back Dawson will look to make a deep run in the playoffs this year. They are coached well and have a culture, so nothing but positive energy should be flowing through that team.

Summer Creek Bulldogs

Big loud 3-0 on the weekend at the OTR shootout. Summer Creek is back for another year and ready to make another run. ’24 SG 6’5 Cam Patterson is back at SC and he’s definitely in rhythm. A legit 2 guard- he showed ability to handle and get to his spots for pullups; he showed he can play out of triple threat and create; as usual he attacked and finished around/above the rim. He just has a knack of how to get to open space whether himself or through cutting and spacing. In Summer Creek’s uptempo style it allows the guards to play free if they can play downhill and get into the paint. ’23 Scoring Handler Darrius Sullivan is one who is taking advantage of this the most. Coming off a fantastic summer, Darrius is looking very confident in his abilities as a primary handler. He gets most of the paint touches, as his burst and blow by steps are really hard for defenders to keep up with. He’s also knocking down the pull up jumper as well. ’23 SG Kyle Morgan is another who is now prepared for his senior season, and has been working his way waiting for these moments. Good shooter, good athlete, and a good decision maker. Has a slithery type feel that allows him to sneak into the paint for layups and touch shots. Solid on the ball as well as he is another who can make a play and create off the bounce. We know SC plays defense, and are going to be relentless with their pressure for the full game. That leaves opportunity for guards to make plays all over the floor. ’25 Sniper Jacon VanNostrand took full advantage of that. Knows his role as a shooter and plays it well. Was low turnover, and made good decision with the ball. But more than anything the strap was loaded. And you can tell the coaches and players have instilled confidence in him to let it fly. If he had any inch of space he was pulling it, which is good. That change of pace and floor spacer offensively will be needed as all the focus will beon the main 3 guards. We know 21-6a is one of the tougher districts around. Everyone knows SC has a specific style of play. What I believe SC will need to grow in down the stretch and potentially playoffs is proving they can defend without fouling. At any given day that can be the case and if players can’t play that hurts them. Also just making sure they can bang and compete with teams who have a impactful big presence. Summer Creek has a state championship coach so if anybody can do it, Coach Coleman can lead his boys on a run when we least expect it.

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Dickinson Gators

If you play the Dickinson Gators, these dudes will be on you like white on rice; and so will the coaches too. Missing Zyon Little (football) and transfer from Clear Brook, Smurf Millender, Dickinson wasn’t letting that slow them down. Relentless pressure from start to finish. And the best part about it is they have coaches who are going amp their players up and instill the utmost confidence in them. ’24 Scoring Handler Qasim Boyd was on one from the tip in the game I watched. He poured out 32 points, and his jumper was falling from everywhere. His pace, quickness, and herky jerky handle makes him super tough to predict and guard. His instincts defensively though on ball, and even more in the passing lanes are second to none. A true ball hawk. Want to see him take on more of the role of being a vocal positive leader. ’25 True PG David Chong was also a heady ball player who constantly made the right play right decisions on every possession. Has some wiggle and hesi to his game that gets him to the paint. He is also a very solid shooter. Definitely deserving of a little more attention than he may be getting at the moment. He will have to continue to prove it and continue to make all the right plays. New addition ’24 Slashing WIng Khalil Elbatrawy adds a dynamic as well. He fits the Dickinson play style with athltes who can really move on the defensive end. Khalil has been making some waves this summer at various camps, has a little wiggle to his game and is a decent shooter. His test will be making sure he gets better at his feel for where to go and when to go, and not get caught up in making highlight plays. When Dickinson gets all their pieces on the floor this can potentially be a very dangerous team that you don’t want to see. I will be interested to see how they make it work with all the guards who are around the same size; but one thing that coaching staff does is empower basketball players to be basketball players! Not sure what all comes off the football field, but if something could hurt Dickinson from making a run it could be having to deal with teams who are smart and can handle pressure but who also have an inside presence. That inside over the top threat slows a press down and can sometimes stop you from causing turnovers and getting points that way. Also guys will have to consistently work on their spot shooting- there is a lot of 1v1 attack so when the kick out comes you have to be comfortable to make those shots. Dickinson has A LOT of talent, will be super FUN to watch, and I know will have a huge season!

Houston Christian Mustangs

A lot of different dynamics here. But good ones. I saw a 2 unit type look all weekend long from HC. None other being led by ’25 True PG Montana Wheeler. I really noticed how he leveled up in his vocal leadership. Always a high character high IQ kid, however now I hear him orchestrating and being a big time floor general and leader in his second year at HC. Scored at ease, got to his spots and really knocked down shots off the dribble pull up. Understood when he had the defense sunk on and made the kick out to the shooter. Really has fine tuned his shot selection, especially around the rim and not shooting as many tough contested layups that he used to. Defensively he was pest, jabbing and getting underneath the dribblers. It will be all about consistency and continuing to seek ways to grow his game and his mind. HC ran the floor hard in transition. You could tell guys knew their roles, they were intentional about what they did. Strong action, PNR action, and the pace in which they got into it was good. Biggest thing about HC I think for everyone is they are big time communicators and energy guys. Those thigns are culture musts and they facilitate winning. ’24 Slashing Wing Chris Adlam was very downhill and looked strong as he attacked the rim and finished. Was really impressed with ’26 Utility Forward Miller Martin however. Not so much in terms of stats and production… but Miller has an infectious energy about himself. He will run through a brick wall if you ask him to; great motor and hustle. He battles for every rebound and loose ball. He almost surprises you because when he gets the ball you almost get the feeling that something funky is going to happen, but it doesn’t. He’s confident in himself, yet you can see he still wants to grow and get better in his skillset. Miller will need to continue to find his identity even as he skills may grow. Also learn to be more in control and spatially aware of where he’s going. He’s not scared of the moment and seems really coachable. He’s also always smiling. Will be really good for HC down the years. Great experience and reps for him right now. HC still has ’23 CJ Barnes who is committed to Colorado Christian, he will be back doing his thing once he’s healthy. Same with ’23 Big Dom Cestero & ’23 Snipers Chance Thallman & Harrison Beken. Good core group of guys who have all played together, should make for a solid season.

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Clements Rangers

Probably one of the more anticipated groups. Clements made a big time run last year into regionals, but don’t think losing a couple players won’t stop them from going back. Firstly, ’24 True PG Divine Ugo is a problem. All weekend his jumpers were hitting no rim, and he hit a bunch of 3s throughout the games, usually 3-4 per game. He’s got the wingspan and the athleticism speed wise and vertical wise- had a few nasty dunks. He competes on the defensive end, and what makes him so good there is his instincts and how he’s always right where he should be for a steal, or a block, or just a help assignment he’s there creating havoc. He looks to get rebounds. He passes and rarely turns it over, drops dimes and makes great decisions. He’s just really efficient and impactful in so many ways. Personally, I think Divine is a top 5 prospect in the state. What Divine has to continue to prove is that he can be locked in mentally, if you feel you are the best or want to be the best you have to show it at all times, period. Clements has reloaded with SIZE; 7’ footer who protects the rim like none other; and with ’24 6’8 Josh Clark. ’24 True PG Bryce Matthews is a really solid guard who is responsible for a lot the handling duties. He is seasoned and will be ready for another year at the helm. Clements is coached well, and I think there is a good mix of players there that will allow them to be successful again. They mixed up their defense to keep other teams off balanced. They ran a few good actions offensively that got them looks. And their coaches hold them accountable. What more can you ask for. They keep it simple, they have lots of chemistry, they know what they’re supposed to do, and they execute. Biggest challenge I could see is just how they handle adversity and how they respond. Everyone on this Clements team needs each other to be successful and make the other look good. SO they have to stay bonded, no distractions, and locked in to get back to regionals and/or state!

 

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