The Main Event Day One Notebook from Justin Byerly
We are back at Suwanee Sports Academy this weekend for The Main Event. The show is just getting started after a strong slate of games from today and things will only get better as the weekend goes on. Let's take a look at who stood out on the first day.
Show Stopper
KJ Lee, UWIN-Servants - The 2026 guard prospect from Hazel Green High School in Alabama knocked down seven three-pointers and finished with 39 points on the night. The 5-foot-11 guard is fresh off another great showing at Bama Jam where he was named to the Top Performers list in the 17-and-under division. Besides the shooting, Lee stood out with his ability to be a leader during the game. His teammates understood he was the hot hand and did a great job of getting him the ball.
Hoop Atlanta/Athens Hoopers
2026 guard Christian Pak first caught my eye with his handle and his ability to get by defenders with an array of moves with the ball. He can also shoot it. He understands the game and makes smart plays with the ball in his hands. In the game I watched, Pak knocked down four three-pointers and finished with 20 points. He has a great feel for the game and has a strong passing ability.
Jacoby Simmons, Hoop Athens - The 5-foot-11 guard finished with 28 points in Hoop Athens second game of the night. He made four three-pointers in the win to finish out the day 1-1. Simmons, who plays out of Morgan County (GA) High School is one of those guys that you want the ball in their hands as much as possible. They do a really good job of not turning the ball over. Looking forward to seeing him again later this weekend.
Hello My Name Is
Probably the best name in the event. Timbaland Mitchell caught my eye with supreme athleticism. The 6-foot-4 jumping jack can hop out of the building and tries to break the rim on his dunks. He is also probably the most athletic guy I saw on the night. He might end up taking that honor for the weekend. He has great timing as a shot blocker and is a good rebounder which comes hand in hand. The athletic wing can knock down mid-range jumpers too.
Tatum Holmes, SEBA Warriors - The 6-foot-5 wing scored 21 points in the game I watched tonight during the opening of The Main Event. The class of 2026 prospect out of John's Creek High School has a lot of tools. He can attack off the dribble and can make shots off the catch. He has an athletic frame and can do some dirty work with rebounding and blocking shots.
