The CP3 Rising Stars camp gave a glimpse into the future as many of the top prospects in the 2022 class were under one roof. All of the players had their moment to shine but there were some that stood out over the rest. 

Zion Cruz, 6-3 G, Renaissance Hoops-Hudson Catholic: Star Power. That’s the first thing that comes to mind when describing one of the most talented and dynamic players at the camp. People seemed to focus on the game a little more whenever Cruz had the ball as we all knew that a highlight could happen at any moment. Cruz had one of the best first steps in the gym, and once past you, he used his supreme athleticism for some high-level finishes. I think he feeds off of all eyes being on him. That should work in his favor as I anticipate people closely tracking his development the rest of the way. If all goes as planned, I can eventually see his name brought up in national conversations in the 2022 class.

Sadraque Nganga, 6-9, Las Vegas Prospects, AZ Compass Prep: Out of the 200+ players in attendance, there couldn’t have been a more intriguing prospect than 6 foot 9 point forward Sadraque Nganga. Thankfully it doesn’t look like his coaches have buried him in the post after watching him sprout up because the best he has to offer is out on the perimeter with the ball in his hands. Nganga routinely brought the ball up the court only to set up a teammate with a pass that is typically delivered from a 5-11 point guard. If first impressions mean anything then Nganga’s introduced himself the right way to everyone in attendance. Expect to see his name a ton..

Jaden Bradley, 6-2, B. Maze Elite-Bradley Central: I'm sure you’ve seen the highlights by now. If not, then do a quick search of Jaden Bradley’s dunks at the CP3 camp so you can get a feel of his power and athleticism. Being baseline for those finishes was something that will stay with me for as long as I have the opportunity to watch this high flyer going forward. But after peeling back the layers of Bradley game after 2 days of watching, I have to say that his defensive ability is what could ultimately set him apart. He plays with a chip on his shoulder, laughing after posterizing someone only to then guard the team’s best player on the way down court. His size, athleticism and mentality all bode well for him going forward as a potential lockdown defender. Watching him shoot gaps for steals and then follow it with some ridiculous dunks will be a steady trend in the future. Im looking forward to it.  

Shy Odom, 6-6, Boston Bobcats-Beaver County Day: They say that we were all created equally but I know I didn’t have the build of a Shy Odom when I was coming into the 9^th grade. Physically imposing at a young age, Odom was a bully with the basketball as his size overwhelmed many that tried to guard him. One of the better inside-out producers in camp, Odom walked the line of finesse and physical very well. His impact on the game came from a rare blend of size and skill as he consistently found himself at the front of the rim for easy attempts. He understands his game and what he has working for him. At moments the game seemed like child's play for him.  

Jaxon Kohler, 6-7, Las Vegas Prospects- Lone Peak: It's unarguable that the best low block scorer this weekend was Jaxon Kohler. Its been a while since I've seen someone dominate box to box the way Utah forward Jaxon Kohler did. Especially in a camp setting where post touches are few and far between. A constant variety of moves were on display as he seemed to dominate from 15 feet on in. Kohler made anyone that appreciated back to the basket playmaking gravitate to his court. His game should continue to develop as he learns more tricks to the trade.