The first live period is in the books. While it may have looked a bit different from a coaches stand point due to the portal, the intensity level was high and the kids came to play. Let's take a look at the best of the tournament. 

The Best Player

Jaborri McGhee

This probably does not come as a surprise to many as McGhee is one of the top available seniors in the Southeast after his decommitment from Tennessee Tech. This kid can flat out go. I watched him pour in 33 points where he made every single point look easy. McGhee is a relentless, fearless scorer. 

The Best Game 

Atlanta Xpress vs Team Mookie 15U

Yep - you read that right. A 15U game was my favorite game of the weekend. I had this matchup circled on my list once I saw both of these teams play on opening night. Both teams have some talented freshman so I had a strong feeling it would be a fun game. It definitely did not disappoint. In a back and forth game that came down to the wire, Atlanta Xpress ultimately won 63-60 after a go ahead 3-pointer from Breon Barnett. 

The Best Sleeper 

Mason Sword

I'd say Sword was the most consistent player on the weekend as far as production. The Loyalty United SF has good size at 6-foot-5. He can be effective inside-out and plays with a ton of physicality. He was Loyalty United's leading scorer and it would not surprise me if he was one of the top rebounders, too. 

The Best Shooter

Grant Chamberlain

This kid can really shoot it. I'm talking a consistent and efficient stroke from three. He knocked down at least three triples in each of Loyalty United's games. Standing tall at 6-foot-6, his size made it easy for him to elevate over defenders. He keeps his hands and feet ready to shoot at all times. 

The Best Newcomer

Nathan Fife

Oh man. This kid made a huge first impression on a lot of our staff. Only a freshman playing up, Fife plays with so much skill and poise. He is a player that you absolutely want with the ball in his hands. He makes the correct reads, takes care of the ball, and can get some tough buckets. Fife has a chance to be a top prospect in North Carolina. 

The Best 14U Team

Team MEBO

The Best 14U Player

Jaden Tate

I walked away super impressed with this kid - especially considering he has not played any meaningful high school ball yet. Already at 6-foot-1, Tate is an aggressive, high motor player on both ends. He led is team in scoring, averaging 22.7 PPG on the weekend. 

The Best 15U Team

Team MEBO

The Best 15U Player

Chane Bynum

Bynum is an intriguing prospect due to his size and versatility. At 6-foot-8, his versatility makes him stand out. He dominates the paint with his length, but he can stretch the floor and knock down threes too. He makes a big impact on the defensive end with his rebounding and shot blocking. 

The Best 16U Team

Team Wall

The Best 16U Player

Jayden Harris

Harris absolutely made his case to be the top overall player in attendance. He can really go. I watched him drop 30 efficient points, knocking down six threes in the first half. Harris has the skill and size to have a break out travel season.

The Best 17U Team

Team Knight 3ssb

The Best 17U Player

Derrick Edouard 

I like the confidence that Edouard brings to the court. He was fearless in attacking the rim and played with a ton of energy on the defensive end. He scored the ball consistently throughout the weekend.