2023 HoopSeen Tip-Off: 16U Standouts IV
SUWANEE, Ga—The 16U division is one of the most exciting ones to monitor every Tip-Off because it gives us a gauge to see which sophomores could have breakout summers.
This year’s Tip-Off provided us with a ton of 16U notes and players of interest. Thus, we have six more notable performers from the division.
Related: 16U I | 16U II | 16U III
We got a first look at Osuji at our spring preview camp. He’s a high-motor forward that produces via his energy first and foremost. Osuji is also a player who can be put pretty much anywhere on the floor and succeed. He averaged in double figures for Monarchs Select at Tip-Off and erupted for 26 points in his highlight moment. He’s had a great start to his spring. - Josh Tec
When Watson was at his best, Stamp Squad was a tough out. He was consistent for them all weekend, but he had some eye-opening games. A 31-point game that included five 3-pointers was at the top of that list, but it wasn’t a one-time deal. He was a potent scorer for this squad all weekend. He certainly got his name out there at Tip-Off. - Josh Tec
This team 24/7 group had an outstanding weekend. They were one of the more balanced teams in 16U. Julian Shanks was someone that showed up as consistently as anyone else. The 6-foot-2 guard/wing averaged in double figures and established himself as a guy to know for the future.
Kersh is someone that we’ve seen a good amount at camps or at various events around town. He’s a player that we’ve seen excel plenty of times. Now with the Allstars, Kersh looks to be on track to have a stock-boosting spring. He’s a talented scorer who has a multi-faceted offensive skill set. He can hang points in a variety of ways. As the spring moves on, look for Kersh to continue to build buzz. - Josh Tec
Coming up from Florida, the Wellington Wolves had a nice weekend in Atlanta. Of their guys, 6-foot-1 guard Jake Harbatkin got his name jotted down because of a defined skill. Our guy can flat-out shoot the ball. He netted 11 3-pointers over the weekend and became a name to watch moving forward.
We have been waiting for this time to come after watching Howard for the last couple of years playing on the HoopSeen stage. Now playing with the 15 and under Rod Howard Select, he showcased his game and his ability to play at a high-level. His dad, Rod , Howard, played at Charlotte in the 90s and Ian is 6 foot five. Guard is looking like he can play at that level or beyond. He has a natural scoring ability with a smooth shot, and a good understanding of the game, he moves well without the ball and can handle it well enough to get by defenders and score. - Justin Byerly
