The Swilling Storm only has one age group in their AAU program, but they have made the most of things over the past few summers. The talented Louisiana-based squad has consistently been involved in the hunt for tournament championships for the past four years, including events at Suwanee Sports Academy.

Organized by former NFL linebacker Patrick Swilling, the Swilling Storm has risen to prominence nationally. This year, the 16U squad will run on the adidas circuit, looking to continue to add exposure for their talented players.

Here's a look at what to expect this AAU season from one of the best teams the Bayou has to offer, the Swilling Storm.

THE START OF THE SWILLING STORM

The Swilling Storm was created four years ago by former NFL linebacker Patrick Swilling, who played for the New Orleans Saints, Detroit Lions, and Oakland Raiders. While he made a name for himself as a football star, he also had a soft spot for basketball. So when the opportunity to support some local middle school basketball players came about, he was onboard.

"My dad wants to give back to the community and see the kids develop," Swilling's son, Pat Swilling Jr., told HoopSeen.com. "That's why the Swilling Storm started. He wanted to help some kids."

Over the past few years, the team has added and subtracted some kids, but for the most part, the same nucleus remains intact. That is one of the main reasons for their success over the past few years. The team expected to be a competitive program, but along the road they have broken all expectations.

THE RISE TO CONTENDER

Each tournament they participate in, the Swilling Storm expect to be playing in the championship game on Sunday. That's how it was on Day 1, that's how it is now. While they may have not been a notable team during their first year of existence, they have proved to other programs they are a formidable opponent in Louisiana.

"The way we compete, that's what makes us different from other AAU teams. We've come a long way. We used to be an unknown team. Over the years we've played on big stages, but the kids play like they have something to prove. Our program has that attitude and mentality about us," Swilling Jr. said.

The Swilling Storm have reached tons of Final Fours and won plenty of tournament championships since their 12U days. The past success has paid dividends, as they now are playing under an adidas sponsorship for the upcoming season. It could open some new doors for a talented group of players.

"We wanted to get on a circuit and make it easier for kids to be seen. It's all about getting them exposure. We feel like this is the most talented, well-put together team we've ever had so far. We are excited about this AAU season."

WHO'S GOT NEXT?

The Swilling Storm is loaded with talented prospects that many basketball fans know little about. As AAU season approaches, college coaches at all levels are contacting Swilling Jr., a coach for the team.

The player to watch this year for the Swilling Storm has to be Devin Gilmore, a 2017 forward from Madison (MS) Ridgeland. He is one of the few out-of-state players that have run with the team over the years.

"I really expect Devin to blow up this summer. He's improved his game and has now extended his game to shoot the 3. I really think he could be a top 50 prospect at the end of the summer," Swilling Jr. said.

Kentucky, Tennessee, Texas, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Florida, and UCLA are just a handful of schools that have inquired about Gilmore as of late. The 6-foot-7 athlete is currently averaging 26 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists for his high school team.

Tre Swilling, a 6-foot-2 guard, is also having a productive high school season at Brother Martin in New Orleans. Young for his age, Coach Swilling believes he could be a special player in the future.

"Tre has been playing point guard a lot this year. He is shooting the ball extremely well. His ball-handling and defense has been great too. He still has a lot of growing to do with his game. He's young for his age."

Despite being small, 5-foot-9 guard Lamont Berzat sets the tone for the Swilling Storm. His intensity, defense, and leadership has helped guide this team to success in the past. He will need to do the same this year if the team expects to compete like they have in prior years.

"Lamont plays for a loaded team at Landry Walker, so he doesn't have to score like he does for us in AAU as much. But he has been doing a great job of facilitating and getting others involved this season. He brings his fire and intensity each game."

Those won't be the only three players that help the Swilling Storm achieve greatness this year. Justin Harris, Tremarcus Levi, and Davontavean Martin are just a couple of other names to watch for on the circuit this season.

Keep an eye on the Swilling Storm. They are a unique team that continues to be on the rise.