2024 Rens United 16u Player Profiles

Rens United is an high academic oriented team affiliated with the renown NY Rens program. The program is New York City based but players are sourced from multiple states. They have a strong history of sending athletes to high-academic universities at all three levels across the northeast.
The 16u team is head coached by Jay Smith and his assistant coach, Adam Paruolo. Smith has several years of coaching experience, including being a varsity assistant at both Iona Prep and Monsignor Scanlan High. Coach Paruolo runs his Never Give Up basketball training program and he is a varsity assistant at St Dominic High.
On July 19-21, the team captured the 2024 Made Hoops Summer Finale 16u championship.
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Their roster is as follows:
(Clicking on the player’s name pulls up their profile)
Bryce Thomas (2026) 5’10 guard, Archbishop Stepinac High - Thomas is the epitome of a high-energy defender, known for his relentless pressure on the ball. His defensive prowess makes him a formidable opponent, often disrupting the opposing team’s offensive flow. Offensively, Thomas excels at penetrating the paint, drawing defenders, and creating open shots for his teammates. His ability to make these crucial plays and inject energy into the game makes him the undeniable X-factor for Rens United. 3.3 gpa
Jomar Fuentes (2026) 6’0 guard, St Raymond High - Fuentes is a sharpshooter who poses a constant threat from beyond the arc. His exceptional ability to spot up and shoot with precision can dismantle any zone defense. He not only contributes offensively but also shows his versatility by crashing the boards. He is particularly deadly from the corners, and his smooth handle allows him to transition effortlessly into his mid-range jumper. Reliable and consistent, Jomar’s offensive capabilities make him a key player, always ready to step up and deliver when needed. 3.0 gpa
Brian Vales (2026) 6’7 forward, Mt Sinai High - Vales stands out for his basketball IQ and understanding of his role on the court. At 6’7”, he knows how to position himself effectively, making him a valuable asset in rebounding and passing from the middle. Brian’s soft touch around the rim and his ability to find teammates with accurate passes under pressure highlight his comprehensive skill set. His presence in the paint is a constant threat, both offensively and defensively, providing Rens United with stability and reliability. 3.8 gpa
Connor Robinson (2026) 6’4 small forward, Brunswick School (CT) - Robinson is a high-IQ forward who excels at playing off the ball. His proficiency as a spot-up corner shooter makes him a reliable scoring option. His understanding of the game allows him to make smart decisions, whether it’s finding the open man or securing extra chance rebounds. Defensively, he contributes significantly with his ability to guard multiple positions and his knack for making the extra pass. Off the court, Robinson is a motivator, constantly encouraging his teammates to play hard and stay focused, embodying the spirit of a true leader. 3.8 gpa
Arthur Shevick (2026) 6’1 guard, Fox Lane High - Shevick is a versatile guard who can score from virtually anywhere on the court. His high basketball IQ enables him to make smart decisions and create opportunities for himself and his teammates. Arthur’s ball-handling skills and ability to finish at the rim make him a dual threat. He rarely turns the ball over and maintains poise under pressure. His impressive performance during the Made Hoops circuit has drawn interest from Yale, showcasing his potential to excel at the next level. 3.9 gpa
Jackson Cullert (2026) 6’6 small forward, Packer School - Cullert is a dynamic player known for his catch-and-shoot ability and athleticism. Standing at 6’6”, he can shoot over defenders and finish above the rim when playing aggressively. Jackson’s defensive instincts and rebounding skills make him a valuable asset on both ends of the court. Often overlooked, he is one of the biggest sleepers in the 2026 class, with high academic achievements and interest from Yale, indicating his readiness for Ivy League competition. 3.3 gpa
James “JT” Lindi (2026) 6’2 guard, Iona Prep - Lindi, the MVP of the Made Hoops 2024 circuit, is an unselfish, high-IQ player. As a pass-first point guard, he excels at breaking down defenses and finding open teammates for easy baskets. His versatility allows him to defend positions 1 through 4, making him a defensive cornerstone. His strength and court vision make him a tough matchup for any opponent. Lindi’s coachability and ability to perform at a high level are qualities that set him apart. 3.3 gpa
Joe Wolf (2026) 6’3 guard, Iona Prep - Wolf is a proficient three-point shooter, especially deadly from the corners. His defensive skills and ability to shoot off the dribble add depth to his game. Joseph’s ability to finish around the rim and make intelligent decisions on the court highlight his high basketball IQ. He is a leader on both ends of the floor, constantly improving and making winning plays that elevate his team’s performance. 4.0 gpa
Peyton Howell (2027) 5’10 point guard, Baldwin High - Howell is an elite on-ball defender capable of applying full-court pressure. As a true point guard, he has a natural nose for the ball and demonstrates exceptional leadership qualities. Peyton’s offensive skills include attacking the defense, shooting the three, and a lethal mid-range game. His varsity experience since the eighth grade speaks to his maturity and readiness for high-stakes competition. Peyton is a clutch performer, unafraid to take critical free throws, making him a winner in every sense. 3.0 gpa
Marcus Henry (2026) 6’7 forward, Sacred Heart High - Henry is the defensive anchor for any team, known for his ability to rebound and block shots. His presence as a rim protector changes the dynamics of the game. Offensively, Marcus excels at finding second-chance opportunities with his knack for positioning and timing. His aggressive rolls to the basket and soft hands in the paint make him a consistent double-double threat. Marcus’s passing ability from the post, his skill in putting the ball on the floor, and his leadership on the court make him an invaluable asset to Rens United. 3.0 gpa