Hoopsgiving delivered another full slate of competitive matchups on Saturday, showcasing some of the Southeast’s top prospects and rising national names. From dominant frontcourt play to high-octane guard performances, the action did not disappoint.
Columbus Controls Davidson Day
Columbus never allowed this one to get interesting, applying intense defensive pressure from the opening tip that kept Davidson Day on their heels. Forced turnovers and run-outs fueled an early separation that only widened as the game went on.
Davidson Day bright spot:
- 2028 PG Sherod McCormick was one of the few early sparks, getting downhill and knocking down shots to keep things competitive.
Columbus standouts:
- 2029 6’7” F Caydin Gaskins flashed long-term upside with his size, mobility, and activity.
- 2026 6’9” F Caleb Gaskins, a Miami signee, was dominant with 22 points and six boards. He hit the midrange, pushed in transition, and showed passing feel…one of his most complete outings.
- 2028 6’6” WF Jordan Fisher added 15 points, knocking down a three early and finding rhythm again in the second half. His ability to guard multiple positions, knock down jumpers, shows 3-and-D potential and top 50 lights
- 2026 6’4” WG Filipe Quinnones impacted both ends, had highlight head-tap dunk, disruptive length in passing lanes contributed to his 12 points and 10 rebounds.
- 2027 7’1” C Akol Nyok remains an intriguing long-term prospect. Used effectively in the dunker spot and provided rim protection.
Cold Hearts Outlast Huntington, 64–59
In one of the day’s more tactical battles, the Cold Hearts held off Huntington Prep late, overcoming a strong first half from the Irish to pull out a narrow win.
Huntington Prep
- 6’11″ Koang Bol Kuany anchored the defense with rim protection and discipline. Though the threes weren’t falling (0–3), his defensive value was undeniable.
- 2029 6’8” David Johnson didn’t have his best shooting night, but the shooting stroke and long-term upside were evident. After Friday’s play he looks like a potential top 25 prospect. Keep watching.
- 2027 6’4” SG Dazon Reid fought foul trouble but still produced 10 points, including two threes, and brought athletic on-ball defense.
- 2026 PG Aviv Aronov was a spark plug…fiery, aggressive, and relentless. He stuffed the stat sheet with 11 points, six assists, and seven rebounds. The Israel national team member showed leadership and a winning spirit. Recent move to the U.S., D1’s need to take a look.
- 2026 6’7” WF Rahiti Tinirauari was key to the early momentum, knocking down multiple threes and helping Huntington take a 33–26 halftime lead. Finished with 18.
Cold Hearts Highlights
- 6’11 F Asher Elson started fast, active transition play, making the extra pass, providing energy.
- 2026 G Adam Oumiddoch hit timely threes in the first quarter to keep the offense afloat.
- 2028 6’3″ G Omari Chaudhry added punch off the bench, finishing with 13 points.
- 2027 PG Anderson Diaz was fantastic attacking his strong hand, finishing tough layups and scoring 19pts.
- 2028 6’6 WF Owen Lavar continues to show clean mechanics and deep range.
Hillgrove Edges Pace in a Thriller (62–60)
A back-and-forth battle all game saw Hillgrove make just enough plays late to escape with a narrow win.
Pace Academy
With 2028 PG Brielen Craft sidelined due to an ankle tweak, Pace leaned on a committee approach early.
- 2026 6’4 WG Bryan Clark stepped up with physical drives and confident pull-ups. The football-recruit, being recruited on the D1 level as a safety/olb, turned hooper was a major factor offensively.
- 2026 6’9 PF Hayden Clay delivered a strong double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds, mixing tough finishes with midrange touch. The Georgia Southern signee was steady all night.
Hillgrove
Known for their toughness, Hillgrove got big contributions across the board.
- 2028 PG Bryson Jatta continues to elevate his game showing speed, improved shooting range, and game management. His back-to-back threes were momentum shifters.
- 2027 6’6 WF Asa Montgomery put together one of the most complete performances of the event. He scored 21 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, dished five assists, and grabbed seven steals. A true stat-stuffer and tone-setter.
Wheeler Outlasts McEachern in the Nightcap (68–59)
The matchup everyone circled delivered. Wheeler leaned on veteran star power and late execution to hand McEachern a hard-fought loss.
Wheeler leaders:
- UConn signee Colben Landrew led all scorers with 25, attacking the rim relentlessly.
- 2027 5’10” G Kevin Savage III added 15, shooting 3-5 from downtown.
- Clemson signee Amare James chipped in 14 and 10 rebounds.
- Ole Miss signee Jaron Saulsberry added a loud seven, including two highlight-reel dunks that electrified the gym.
McEachern:
- 2026 WG Mason McMillan kept the Indians in it with a team-high 20 points.
- 2027 CG Chase Lumpkin battled through heavy defensive attention and double teams to score 14.
Missed free throws down the stretch ultimately cost McEachern a chance to steal the game, but the intensity and pace lived up to the nightcap hype.