Tavares, Fl – The Hoop Exchange Fall Festival has been the epicenter of high school basketball for some years now and the best teams and players from across the state gather to compete. The event features an impressive lineup of rising stars and establish ranked players.
Columbus High School’s Dynamic Duo and Rising Star Shine at Elite Event
Columbus High School continues to solidify its reputation as a powerhouse in high school basketball, thanks to two of the nation’s most highly regarded prospects: Cameron and Cayden, who were major draws at this year’s elite camp. Cameron, known for his versatility and high basketball IQ, particularly stood out in Saturday’s games. His ability to impact both ends of the floor, combined with his leadership on the court, has established him as one of the top talents in the country. Whether he’s scoring, facilitating, or defending, Cameron’s well-rounded game makes him a constant threat. On the other hand, Cayden excelled at running the offense, displaying poise and controlling situations. As the primary playmaker, Cayden’s court vision and decision-making were on full display as he orchestrated the team’s offense and made key plays. Both brothers have garnered significant attention after their recent unofficial visits to Miami, Duke, and Florida, making their future one of the most exciting storylines in high school basketball.
Adding to Columbus High’s talented roster is the rapidly rising Jaxson Richardson, a 6’5″ guard and son of former NBA star Jason Richardson. Jaxson, known for his explosive athleticism, has quickly become one of the most talked-about prospects in high school basketball. With Cameron, Cayden, and Jaxson Richardson leading the way, Columbus High School is set to make a lot of noise this year.
New Look Montverde, Same Dominant Outcome
Despite a fresh-looking roster, Montverde Academy remains dominant, proving once again why they are one of the nation’s top high school basketball programs. This past Saturday, Caleb Gaskins was a must-see player, delivering an all-around performance that helped lead his team to multiple impressive victories. Gaskins contributed on both ends of the floor, showcasing his versatility and leadership in key moments.
Montverde’s revamped roster also includes notable additions like Hudson Greer, Mozi Mosley, and Dante Allen, all of whom made significant impacts on the court.
- Dante Allen consistently found himself in the right spots, showing a great understanding of the game and making key plays when needed. His positioning and basketball IQ played a crucial role in Montverde’s success.
- Mozi Mosley brought relentless energy, especially in transition. His hustle and athleticism were on full display, giving his team a boost with his ability to make plays in the open court.
- Hudson Greer was particularly special from beyond the arc, hitting clutch shots and stretching the defense with his sharp shooting. His ability to knock down deep shots made him a significant offensive threat throughout the games.
Even with a new-look roster, Montverde’s ability to integrate talented players and continue their winning ways speaks to the strength of their program. With players like Gaskins leading the charge and key contributions from others, Montverde is poised for another dominant season on the national stage.
Toni Bryant Has the Talent to Shine
Toni Bryant of North Tampa Christian is a rising star with the potential to dominate on both ends of the floor. His skill set facing the rim is already impressive, but what makes him stand out is his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Bryant can move fluidly up and down the floor, creating plays with limited dribbles and showcasing a high basketball IQ. Whether it’s altering shots on defense or making key offensive plays, Bryant has the versatility that coaches dream of.
His best attribute, however, is his length. It gives him a significant advantage when it comes to defending, rebounding, and finishing around the rim. And while Bryant’s current talent is undeniable, the exciting part is that he still has room for growth. With his size, athleticism, and improving skill set, he has the tools to become a dominant force as he continues to develop. The new additions in Caleb Sanders and Caleb Williams will give Bryant the help needed. Sanders a proven defender and rebounder and Williams is a slashing scorer. NTC will be a must see this season.
Jalen Reece and Jamier Jones: Oakridge’s Dynamic 1-2 Punch
Oakridge High School is always a force to be reckoned with under the guidance of Coach Reece, and this year is no different with the dynamic duo of Jalen Reece and Jamier Jones leading the charge.
Jalen Reece, a floor general with exceptional ball-handling skills, is a constant threat when the ball is in his hands. His ability to create for himself and his teammates makes him a true playmaker, capable of breaking down defenses and orchestrating the offense with precision. Reece’s court vision and ability to control the tempo of the game make him a key component in Oakridge’s success.
Paired with him is Jamier Jones, an athletic specimen who adds explosive energy to the team. Jones has made significant strides in his development, particularly with his ability to shoot from long range. While his athleticism allows him to dominate in transition and around the rim, his improved outside shooting makes him an even more dangerous and versatile threat on offense.
Together, Reece and Jones form a lethal 1-2 punch that makes Oakridge a tough team to beat. Even though they’re missing a few pieces, Reece’s creativity and Jones’s athleticism will have Oakridge undoubtedly at a high level throughout the season.
Standout Performers:
2026 Willie Burnett III: A Game Changer for West Oaks
Standing at 6’4″, Willie Burnett III of West Oaks Academy is already making waves as a potential game changer in the class of 2026. Burnett combines his impressive size with a skilled ball-handling ability, making him a dynamic playmaker on the court. His ability to control the game and create plays for himself and his teammates sets him apart from many of his peers.
2026 Brandon Bass Jr.: Following in His Father’s Footsteps
Brandon Bass Jr., the son of former NBA player Brandon Bass, is quickly making a name for himself in the class of 2026. The Windermere Prep prospect at 6’4″ has added noticeable muscle to his frame, Bass Jr. is not only stronger but also more dominant when attacking the basket. His ability to finish at the rim has improved, showcasing both power and finesse, while his physicality allows him to absorb contact and still make plays.
Weekend Notables:
2027 Martay Barnes, Central Point Academy
2027 Aaron Britt, The Villages
2027 Jomar Bernard, The Villages
2025 Darius Washington III, Edgewater
2025 Myles Mayfield, Edgewater
2026 Joseph Hartman, The Rock School
2025 Evan Sterck, The Rock School
2026 Herly Brutus, The Villages
2026 Alexander Costanza, Westminister Academy
2025 Daniel Akoue, Southern Coast
2025 Gustavo Guimmars, Rivera Prep
2025 Dwayne Wimbley Jr., St. Thomas Aquinas
2026 Ethan Diaz, Oviedo HS
2027 OT Delancy, Gibbs HS
2025 Jacob Daniels, Gibbs HS
2027 Ethan Lewis, Coral Glades
2025 Bryan Jean, Coral Glades
2025 Zay Mosley, Oakridge
2027 Jermey Jenkins, Rivera Prep
2026 Ronald Clark, Impact Christian
2029 Josiah Brooks, Hialeah Educational Academy
2026 Jaquan Freeman, Hialeah Educational Academy
2025 Traevon Koch, SFA
2026 Jarvis Pope, SFA
2027 Aiden Donald, Tampa Catholic
2025 Coby Cannizzaro, Tampa Catholic
2027 Chase Weismiller, Sickles
Cornel Wheeler, Wilson
Cameron Bryant, Oveido HS
Nate Accius, St. Thomas Aquinas
Zane Elliott, St. Thomas Aquinas