The temperature inside the gym at USA Basketball’s Fall Mini-Camp wasn’t the only thing heating up — the intensity was palpable from the opening whistle. Coaches and players alike brought the type of focus and energy expected at one of the nation’s most competitive talent gatherings. Over the course of two-plus hours, athletes battled through skill work, position-specific drills, and high-tempo scrimmages designed to test both endurance and composure.
Class of 2029
A pair of Florida prospects, 6’4” wing Reggie Evans Jr. and 6’8” forward Draydne McDaniel flashed next-level potential throughout the session. Evans showcased his length and smooth athleticism, consistently getting to his spots in the midrange and finishing at the rim. McDaniel, on the other hand, impressed with his poise and versatility, displaying a mature approach to the game and the ability to impact multiple areas of the floor. 6’3” guard JJ Crawford stood out with his confident shot-making. Finding his rhythm early, he splashed jumper after jumper, demonstrating balance and confidence in his release.
Class of 2028: Loaded Group with Depth and Versatility
If the 2029 group showed promise, the 2028 class confirmed that the future is now. The talent and competitiveness among these sophomores were exceptional, with multiple players making their presence known in the drills and abbreviated 5-on-5 segments.
6’7” wing-forward AJ Williams asserted himself early and often, bringing a mix of confidence, power, and composure. His two-way impact, rebounding, defending, and scoring in traffic, reinforced why he’s the top player in the class. 6’3” point guard Brielen Craft continues to add layers to his game. His combination of improved physical strength, shooting touch, and ability to make reads under pressure makes him one of the most polished floor generals in the class. Cali 6’4” combo guard Joah Lowery showed elite feel, threading passes into tight windows and making the game easier for teammates with high-level vision and timely scoring. 6’5” guard Myles Hayes brought his signature explosive athleticism, constantly attacking the rim and flashing a smooth jumper that kept defenders honest. 5’11” PG Michai White was surgical in his approach, navigating ball screens with patience and creating both floaters and assists. His energy on the defensive end didn’t go unnoticed either. 6’4” PG Jakyi Myles impressed with his pace and control…a “can’t rush me” confidence that stood out in a chaotic environment. His smooth tempo and balance belies his age. 6’5” wing DJ Okoh was seemingly involved in every play, slashing, rebounding, defending, and knocking down jumpers. His length and motor created consistent problems. 6’9” big man Erick Dampier Jr. was a factor with his interior presence. He absorbed contact, finished through traffic, and anchored the paint defensively with his physicality and rebounding prowess. Forwards 6’7” Emmanuel Nwabuoku and 6’8” Evan Willis both stood out for their relentless energy and athleticism. 6’10” Bentley Lusakueno impressed with his rare blend of size, mobility, and defensive versatility. He ran the floor like a guard, switched on the perimeter with ease, and flashed a developing jumper that hints at major long-term upside. Lastly, 6’5″ G Jordan Mize has length and quickness, defends it well with active hands and purpose. Defensive 6’4″ G Chase Lumpkin can also stretch the floor and finish through contact. 6’7″ F Benjamin Berrouet is a load on the glass, using his size, surprising athleticism to carve out space for rebounds. 6’0″ PG Tyrone Jamison is the consummate floor general, able to create opportunities for himself and others while being a pest on the other end.
This was just a taste, the 2028 has a depth of talent, beyond the players that were invited, that will be fun to watch develop over the next two years.