Lamar Holt, the director of RYTES Warriors youth basketball organization, has once again has put together some major talent for his “Winter Slam” basketball event. Since it’s inception in 2010, Holt as been able to attract many of the future stars of Texas basketball to attend this event. This year’s field is loaded with teams from all over the state of Texas ranging from 9U-14U. I’m excited to see which teams and young players earn their stripes this weekend and have a good showing on a big stage. Here are some of the kids I’ll be keeping an eye on.
2024- Jayden Gambrell (Gametime Tigers)– One of the better shooters I’ve seen in his age group. He makes shots with range and he isn’t afraid to take big shots. Saw him play last month, is starting to play on the ball a little more.
2024- Wyatt Young (Cooz Elite)– Another kid I’ve watched play a ton this fall and winter. Can score in a variety of ways, has an elite feel for the game for a young fella. He’s a “bucket getter”. Quick hands defensively allows him to score in transition with his patent runner.
2024- Jonathan Hadnot (Nike Cy Fair Elite)- At 6’2 when I 1st saw him I assumed he played own low due to his size. WRONG! He’s a perimeter player who shoots the lights out. Can always get separation because of his length.
2024- Zion Pipkin (Houston Flight)– Big time athlete who burst on the scene at the Ronald Searles BallOut Events Holiday Classic last month. He was one of the better athletes I’ve seen, scores in transition, fantastic on the offensive glass, and can defend multiple positions.
2024- Turner Murdock ( RYTES Warriors)– Three sport star that excels at all 3. An inside/outside kid who physically can dominate games. Uses his athleticism to get to the rim and get easy baskets offensively, and defensively he guards bigger and smaller players. Interesting to see which sport he will end playing when it’s all said and done.
2025- Jaden Holt (RYTES Warriors)– Very heady PG who plays the game with a even keel. Has been playing “up” for the last couple of years and you can tell why he’s so cerebral. Understands P&R reads very well, and stretch the defense with his jumper. One of the top 6th graders in the city of Houston.
2024- Chris Catchings (Hoop City Athletics)– Great size and length, used to strictly play down low a couple of years ago, but has developed his game and extended it out to the wing. Knocks down 3’s and handles the ball with confidence now. Is double double machine.