TT-S' s 2024 E75 Frosh/Soph Top Performers
The NERR Elite 75 Frosh/Soph Showcases have long been the “first look” exposure platform for many of our region’s future stars, including multiple future pros. This year NERR ran the event in two locations. We stopped in on the September 9 version hosted at Hamden Hall Country Day’s terrific Beckerman Center in Hamden, CT and were impressed by the following players.
DJ Hawkins (2027) 6’7 wing, St. Thomas Moore School (CT) - Hawkins is a talented wing player with a smooth playing style and excellent ball-handling skills. He possesses intriguing upside, combining superb shooting ability with a knack for scoring, all enhanced by his length. His height and long strides allow him to see over defenses and distribute the ball effectively, making him difficult to contain in the paint. Comfortable with the ball in his hands, he can attack the basket efficiently, often requiring just one or two dribbles to make his move. Plays AAU with Expressions. 3.0 gpa
Tyler Newsom (2027) 6’4 wing, St Luke’s School (CT) - Newsom is a highly skilled wing player with impressive size and athleticism. He is a polished three-level scorer who excels in the open court and finishes strong at the rim. In half-court settings, he showcases excellent footwork and body control while attacking the basket from the perimeter, consistently knocking down open shots in catch-and-shoot situations. Additionally, he is an elite defender capable of guarding multiple positions. Plays AAU with Rens United-Klores. 3.9 gpa
Jahmez “Jah” Reaves (2028) 6’2 guard, Frederick Gunn School (CT) - Reaves is a high energy guard who played with physicality and caused havoc defensively pressuring the ball full court and forcing turnovers. Offensively he is a creative passer and three level scorer.
Leneil Jones Jr. (2027) 6’1 point guard, St Luke’s School (CT) - Jones is a floor general with a high basketball IQ, showcasing good size and strength for his position. He is challenging to guard in high pick-and-roll situations. Efficient with his mid-range shot, he is also creative and shifty with the ball when attacking the basket, adept at initiating contact and finishing with his off-hand. Rarely making mistakes, he consistently makes the right play on offense. Defensively, he applies strong ball pressure and excels at creating steals in the passing lanes. Plays AAU with PHD. 3.2 gpa
Sekou Toure (2028) 6’2 guard, Notre Dame-West Haven (CT) - After witnessing for the past year his older brother, Abdou become the hottest Connecticut prospect since Donovan Clingan, we were excited to see Sekou Toure in his freshman form. He is a combo guard with a natural feel for the game. He is a three-level scorer who demonstrates creativity in live-dribble situations and makes advanced reads with his passing in pick-and-roll scenarios. He excels at pushing the tempo offensively and finishing strongly around the rim. Additionally, he communicates effectively with his teammates and displays a deep passion for the game. Plays AAU with Expressions.
Alijah Johnson (2027) 5’11 guard, Suffield Academy (CT) - Johnson is a tough, speedy guard with exceptional scoring ability. He can score in bunches, consistently putting pressure on opposing defenses. He excels at pushing the ball in transition, often stopping on a dime to knock down three-pointers. Unafraid of contact, he continues to attack the paint and draw fouls to get to the free-throw line. As a hard-nosed, aggressive defender, he embraces challenges and doesn’t shy away from competition. Plays AAU with Mass Rivals. 3.3 gpa
Justin Robinson (2027) 6’0 guard, Frederick Gunn School (CT) - Robinson is an explosive player. He showed his bounce with impressive dunks catching a windmill and a two handed alley-oop. A full court defense is also his calling card. Plays AAU with City Rocks. 3.3 gpa