Live Period Prospect Eye-Openers – Part 1

July 16, 2024

Yohan Gutierrez | 2025 | 6-8 | Forward | Cooz Elite Pro16 17U

Yohan Gutierrez is a forward with an imposing height of 6-8, which he uses to his advantage on the offensive end. He has a strong presence in the paint, where he can score effectively with back-to-the-basket moves and put-backs off rebounds. Gutierrez demonstrates a developing touch around the basket and shows potential for extending his range to the mid-range area. His ability to finish at the rim is complemented by his agility, which is impressive for a player of his size. On defense, Gutierrez’s size and wingspan make him a natural shot-blocker and a deterrent in the lane. He positions himself well to contest shots without fouling and is adept at altering opponents’ scoring attempts. His rebounding is a significant asset; Gutierrez boxes out effectively and uses his length to secure boards on both ends of the floor. As he continues to develop his lower body strength, he will become even more formidable on the glass. Gutierrez brings a competitive edge to the game, often seen in his hustle plays and determination to fight for every possession. He displays a willingness to learn and improve, which bodes well for his development.

Yohan Gutierrez is a promising forward with considerable upside. His current skill set, combined with his physical attributes, makes him a player to watch in the 2025 class.

Tyrus Rathan-Mayes | 2025 | 6-6 | Guard | Cooz Elite Pro16 17U

Tyrus Rathan-Mayes is a 6-6 guard who brings exceptional size and versatility to the backcourt. His stature allows him to see over defenses, facilitating his ability to make accurate passes and create scoring opportunities for teammates. Rathan-Mayes has a smooth shooting stroke that extends beyond the three-point line, making him a threat from deep. His length also aids in finishing at the rim, where he can shoot over smaller defenders or use his agility to maneuver around them. His ball-handling skills are solid for his size, enabling him to initiate the offense and take on defenders one-on-one. He shows potential as a scorer who can operate both on the perimeter and in the mid-range. Defensively, Rathan-Mayes’ wingspan and height give him an advantage in contesting shots and disrupting passing lanes. He has the potential to be a versatile defender, capable of guarding multiple positions due to his size and lateral quickness. Rathan-Mayes exhibits a high basketball IQ, often making smart decisions that positively influence the game’s outcome. His competitive nature is evident, and he demonstrates leadership qualities through his play and communication on the court

Tyrus Rathan-Mayes is a highly promising guard with the potential to excel at the collegiate level. His combination of size, skill, and basketball intelligence makes him a standout player in the 2025 class.

Miles Newton | 6-4 | Guard | Phenom NXT 17U

Miles Newton is a 6-4 guard who combines size with a well-rounded offensive skill set. His height advantage allows him to shoot comfortably over smaller defenders and contributes to his effectiveness in the backcourt. Newton’s shooting touch is notable, especially from mid-range and beyond the arc. He has the confidence to take and make big shots, displaying a smooth release and good shot selection. His ball-handling abilities enable him to create off the dribble and penetrate defenses, leading to scoring opportunities for himself or kick-out passes to open teammates. Newton also shows promise as a facilitator, demonstrating good vision and an understanding of how to manage the offense. On the defensive end, Newton’s size and length are assets. He can guard multiple positions, from point guards to small forwards, which makes him a valuable and flexible defender. His ability to contest shots and provide help defense without fouling is a significant part of his game. Newton is active on the boards, using his athleticism to contribute to his team’s rebounding efforts. His commitment to defense is clear, as he often takes on challenging assignments and competes with tenacity. Newton brings a competitive spirit to the court, consistently showing determination and a willingness to improve. His leadership potential is evident, as he often communicates effectively with his teammates and leads by example.

Miles Newton is a talented guard with the potential to make a significant impact at the next level. His combination of size, shooting ability, and defensive versatility makes him a prospect to keep an eye on.

Jordon VanWinkle | 2025 | 6-7 | Forward | Phenom NXT 17U

Jordon VanWinkle is a forward standing at 6-7, bringing a combination of size and skill to the frontcourt. He has a versatile offensive game, capable of scoring both inside the paint and from the perimeter. VanWinkle’s post-up play is effective due to his ability to use his body to shield defenders and his soft touch around the rim. He demonstrates a variety of moves in the low block and can finish with either hand. His shooting extends to mid-range, and he shows potential for developing a consistent three-point shot, which would further stretch defenses and enhance his offensive threat. Defensively, VanWinkle uses his length to alter shots and make it difficult for opponents to score over him. He is an active rebounder who positions himself well and isn’t afraid to battle for boards on both ends of the court. VanWinkle displays a high basketball IQ, making smart decisions that positively impact the game. His work ethic is evident, as he consistently looks to improve his skills and understanding of the game.

Jordon VanWinkle is a promising forward with considerable upside. His current skill set, combined with his physical attributes, makes him a player to watch in the 2025 class.

Landon Geren | 2025 | 6-6 | Guard | 1Family NXT 17U

Landon Geren is a 6-6 guard who brings an impressive combination of size and skill to the backcourt. His height provides him with an advantage in shooting over defenders, and he possesses a fluid jump shot that is effective from both mid-range and three-point distance. Geren’s ball-handling abilities are strong for his size, allowing him to create his own shots and facilitate the offense. He can drive to the basket with purpose, using his length to finish at the rim or draw fouls. He also demonstrates good court vision, finding open teammates with accurate passes and contributing to the team’s ball movement. On the defensive end, Geren’s size and wingspan enable him to guard multiple positions effectively. He can contest shots on the perimeter and has the potential to be a disruptive force in passing lanes. Geren shows a high basketball IQ, often making smart plays that contribute positively to his team’s performance. His competitive nature drives him to perform at a high level consistently, and he exhibits leadership qualities through his play and communication on the court.

Landon Geren is a highly promising guard with the potential to excel at the collegiate level. His combination of size, shooting ability, and basketball intelligence makes him a standout player in the 2025 class.

Malachi Robinson | 2025 | 6-7 | Forward | Alabama Celtics NXT 17U

Malachi Robinson is a forward with a notable height of 6-7, which he leverages to his advantage on the offensive end. He has a strong presence in the paint, where he can utilize his size and strength to score close to the basket. Robinson shows good footwork and an array of post moves that make him a reliable scoring option down low. His ability to finish through contact is impressive, and he consistently battles for offensive rebounds, providing his team with second-chance points. While primarily an interior player, Robinson has shown flashes of a developing mid-range game, which could add another dimension to his offensive repertoire. Defensively, Robinson’s height and wingspan allow him to be an effective shot-blocker and rim protector. He has a good sense of timing and positioning, which helps him alter shots without getting into foul trouble. Robinson is also a strong rebounder, using his body well to box out opponents and secure defensive boards. His lateral quickness is adequate for his position, but continued improvement will help him defend against more agile forwards and contribute to perimeter defense when required. Robinson brings a high level of energy and competitiveness to the court. He is a hard worker who isn’t afraid to do the gritty work necessary for his team to succeed. His willingness to learn and improve is evident, and he has the potential to develop into a leadership role as he gains experience.

Malachi Robinson is a promising forward with considerable upside due to his size and skill set. As he continues to develop his game, particularly his shooting and versatility, Robinson will continue to attract attention from college programs looking for a forward who can impact both ends of the floor.