Cactus Classic: Underclassmen shine on Saturday
MESA, AZ - The youth movement was on full display on Saturday at the Cactus Classic. Who were some of the standouts in match-up and bracket play.
You could make an argument that he had the most impactful day of any player in the field. With a game of 30 points and a game of 20 points, Jones was in constant attack mode and never took his foot off the gas. It was quite the effort from him from start to finish. Jones couldn’t be contained. He’s big, strong, athletic and in constant attack.
Well, what do you know. Another day. Another stellar effort from McNeal in the 15U division. He was a top performer at the HoopSeen West Tip-Off back in March and he hasn’t taken his foot off the gas. We saw a monster 45-point performance from him in the first round of bracket play. It was the highest point total of any player so far this season in the West.
When his Legion of Hoops 16U team needed a second half burst, they leaned into the guard play of Holly. He scored all 13 points in the second half of the game and did it with an array of firepower. He put up shots, scored off a catch-and-shoot, shot the three well and kept his foot on the gas at all times. He can handle and get to any spot he wanted in the event opener on Saturday morning.
A straight flame thrower from three, Burbach torched the nylon for eight made threes in a mid day win. Was unstoppable on the wing as a shooter. The 6-foot rising sophomore from Brophy College Prep was automatic when he spotted up, squared his shoulders and lined his feet up for a triple. Burbach was in sniper mode on Saturday.
The class of 2026 prospect had a nice level up performance on Saturday. The young big man was a tough guard and not bad for a team playing up an age division. We saw some really good things from him in two good wins. Put him on your short list of players to watch in the Phoenix area moving forward.
