Power Forwards Who Stood Out at the Candace Dupree Invitational
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Over the weekend, I watched some good games and none more competitive than the ECU Family 2025 – J Sizzle matchup on Day 3 of the tournament. The game featured dynamic players at every position and the power forward matchup…
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Continue ReadingOver the weekend, I watched some good games and none more competitive than the ECU Family 2025 – J Sizzle matchup on Day 3 of the tournament. The game featured dynamic players at every position and the power forward matchup between McKenzie Neal McKenzie Neal 6'2" | C Okeechobee HS | 2025 NY and Senaia Asanya was a good one. Even the officials were overheard commenting on the talented power forwards on the floor.
McKenzie Neal McKenzie Neal 6'2" | C Okeechobee HS | 2025 NY 2025 (ECU Family 2025/PGH #12). Neal was dynamic on Day 3 and she had the post-game working at maximum level. The footwork had fans screaming before she even released the shot. Her basketball IQ and her ability to position herself in the paint are remarkable. She catches the ball already knowing what she is going to do next. In the Sunday matchup, Neal scored 20 points, rebounded the ball well, and ran the floor very well.
Senaia Asanya, 2026 PF (J Sizzles 2025 ) brought the “sizzle” to the matchup and showed her versatility during the contest. She matched up well against Neal on defense and gave her a challenge on the offensive end. Asanya was a force on the offensive and defensive boards. Asanya showed the variety in her game, knocking down a three-pointer to go with her shots in the paint. Asanya finished the game with 11 points.
Other Power Forwards who stood out:
Aariana Rose Gravel Aariana Rose Gravel 6'0" | PF Trinity Catholic | 2024 State FL 2024 PF (Tre Mann Elite 2024/ PGH #168). Gravel made a whole lot of people and scouts take notice by her stellar performance this past weekend. She is a very athletic player and her game matched her athleticism. Gravel showed a combination of strength, speed, explosiveness, and quickness. She is a force on the boards and when she shoots in the paint it’s done with purpose. On day one, Gravel had a 21-point – 8 rebound effort.
Brie McCoy, 2026 PF, 6’0″ (ECU Barrett 2026). McCoy has the body of a power forward and of a high school player already. She has become a force in the paint. McCoy puts the ball up with power and draws a lot of fouls in the painted area. At the Candace Dupree Invitational, McCoy averaged nearly a double -double with 10pts and 8 rebs per game. McCoy has a strong physical presence and she rebounds and runs the floor very well. Defensively, she is solid and physical in the painted area. McCoy has the ability to make Varsity and contribute as a Freshman.