Cactus Classic: Top overall 16U performers part I
MESA, AZ - Who were the top dogs of the 2022 Cactus Classic over the weekend at Bell Bank Park in the 16 and under division? Our staff dives into the best of the best.
If you’re asking me who the most clutch player was over the weekend I might have to point you to Amundsen, who had some of the biggest buckets and biggest steals in crunch times of just about every game, as his Firestorm 15U team went 3-0 before losing in the 16U championship. Most know Amundsen as a deadly shooter from the outside when he gets time and space to get it off. But Amundsen flashed some grit this past weekend, defending well and playing harder than the five guys in the other jerseys. That went a ways in his team’s success in playing up an age group and still stringing together wins. You have to love winning basketball. - Justin Vargas
The more I watched him, the more I liked him. Bradford plays with all effort from tip to final buzzer. He is ultra-competitive and plays in a way that won’t go down without a fight. Bradford, a young player for the class of 2023, certainly made an impression that sparked curiosity for what’s next. Bradford’s speed and control are two of his best traits as a lead guard. He was terrific over the course of two days in Mesa. - Justin Young
Just look at today’s NBA and it’ll tell you, your point guard has to have the whole package if you are going to have a chance at being a good team. That is what coaches at the next level should see as Graves' game develops. The 6’0” 2025 lead guard, by nature, is a pass-first type that defines his game more by getting teammates open looks and controlling the tempo of the game. However, he has really developed into a guy that can get to his spots and beat you off the dribble without a problem. He has the ability to knock it down from deep and his play this past weekend had his team in the thick of things in the 16U division. He is becoming one of my favorite players to watch play. - Justin Vargas
When the bright lights of the championship game turned on in the 16 and under division of the Cactus Classic, Madi showed the full array of his potential. He was tough as a rebounder and interior finisher. When it came to shooting, he had no trouble knocking down the face-up jumper out to three. We’ve seen him level up over the last couple of months with this good UH Elite team. Madi continues to trend in the right direction. - Justin Young
He was, to me, one of the best guards in the 16 and under field. With a great burst of speed, tight handles and a know how on when and where to score, he was a multi-dimensional threat on offense. Holly posted nearly 15 points a game and paired his scoring well with smart passing and decisions. - Justin Young
