Space City Slam: 14U Guards That Can Go

Young, determined and fearless are a few attributes I saw from guards in the 14-and-under division at the Space City Slam! It's exciting to see backcourt players with a keen understanding of the game at an early age. Here is a breakdown of a few standout backcourt players.    Ortiz is a confident spot-up shooter with a silky smooth release, equally capable of knocking down shots off the catch or creating off the dribble. On defense, she brings edge and anticipation — shown by jumping the point guard near half court to force an over-and-back turnover.     Gillespie pairs length with her shooting ability to hit the long ball over opponents. She spots up and relocates to keep the defense guessing. She can score on the turnaround jumper in the paint and consistently scores in double figures.     De La Paz lives by the motto "shooters shoot" — always ready to spot up with confidence. She has a strong understanding of floor spacing, consistently putting herself in position to be a reliable catch-and-shoot threat.     Gille makes timely reads in the half court to finagle to the basket and score. She makes difficult things look simple as she patiently uses her pivot to create a shot for find the open. Gille has the spirit of a competitor on both sides of the ball. She has a work ethic and IQ that forces coaches to leave her on the floor.     At a young age, Chavana already has an impressive running jumper. Her physique boasts upper body strength and it isn't just for show as she uses it in a relentless attack at the basket. Outside the paint, Chavana's range is just as impressive.

Young, determined and fearless are a few attributes I saw from guards in the 14-and-under division at the Space City Slam! It's exciting to see backcourt players with a keen understanding of the game at an early age. Here is a breakdown of a few standout backcourt players.