Las Vegas, Oct 3–5, 2025 — The Border League once again delivered on its promise of high-intensity, high-stakes basketball in the desert, with elite programs and top recruits vying to make early statements ahead of the season. Among the standout narratives was the head-to-head clash between Deron Rippey Jr. (Blair Academy) and Taylen Kinney (Rod Wave Elite / Overtime Elite), which drew attention from scouts.
The matchup between Deron Rippey Jr. and Taylen Kinney was one of the most anticipated in the event. Kinney, a Kansas verbal commit with Overtime Elite / Rod Wave Elite, brought a versatile offensive game, while Rippey, considered among the top point guards of his class (2026), leaned on poise, clutch shot-making, and all-around production. Rippey helped lead Blair’s comeback in a tight 60–58 win.
Class of 2026
- Deron Rippey Jr. (Blair Academy, PG) — Engineered a 23-point comeback vs. RWE/Overtime Elite and hit the go-ahead runner to beat Tyran Stokes’ Blue Knights. Averaged 16.5 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 5.0 APG, 2.0 SPG, with 21-4-4-2 in the Stokes game. Clutch creation, pace control, and winning plays popped on film.
- Taylen Kinney (RWE/Overtime Elite, PG, Kansas verbal) — In the Blair matchup, Kinney finished with 11 PTS, 7 AST, 4 STL, showed his two ability with keen focus on pressure creation and on-ball disruption.
- Tyran Stokes (Blue Knights, F) — Physical downhill scoring and a late and-one kept his group in front before Rippey’s winner. Even in defeat, looked every bit the blue-chip junior headliner.
- Adam Oumiddoch (Overtime Elite W/G) — Dropped 41 point double-double in final game of Border League action.
- Brayden Burries had one of the most electric performances of the weekend when he erupted for 36 points and added 7 rebounds in his game versus the Florida Eagles. The scoring display included a full repertoire of pull-ups, drives, and three-point looks.
Others
- 2027 F Bruce Branch III (Prolific Prep, W/F) — Branch showed his two-way pop. 30 PTS, 11 REB, 2 BLK (64% FG), underscoring how comfortable he is as a primary option against elite length.
- 2028 G Adan Diggs (Millennium/AZ, G) — Had a 27-point outing; showed confidence with his pull-ups and strong body control at the rim.
- 2029 DJ Hunter (Somerset Losee/NV, PG) — Impacted the stat line across the board with (assists/steals) in a 3–0 run. For a freshman, the poise and two-way activity stood out.
- 2028 F Hudson Dannels (Bishop Gorman/NV, SF) — Named among Nevada Day-1 standouts; “one of the leading scorers” for LV Orange with catch-and-shoot readiness and off-ball timing at 6-7.
- 2028 G Quinton Wilson had a good weekend, dropping 21 points in one game, showing why he is one of the best players in the class.
- 2027 G Kameron Cooper (Bishop Gorman/NV, W/F) — Showed arly shot-making flashes and size on the wing; projects as a multi-tool perimeter forward.