Power in the Paint: Post Players Who Stood Out at USA U16 Trials
In this article:
The post group at the USA U16 Trials featured a strong mix of size, skill, and versatility. These five bigs brought different strengths to the floor, but all found ways to make a major impact whether by protecting the rim, rebounding, or stretching the defense.
Eve Long
Eve
Long
6'3" | PF
Olathe South | 2027
State
KS
was one of the most active bigs defensively, showing the ability to switch out on the wing and still contest shots. She got off the floor quickly for rebounds and blocks, constantly creating second-chance opportunities. Her energy and effort were hard to miss.
Highlights
Harper Dunn played with a physical edge, seeking out rebounds and altering shots at the rim with consistency. She showed comfort operating with her back to the basket, using solid footwork to carve out space. Her interior presence made her a reliable option on both ends.
Caroline Bradley brought a nice inside-outside combo, able to knock down open shots and battle in the paint. She finished through contact with both hands and made her presence felt around the rim. Her toughness and touch were a strong pairing throughout the event.
Highlights
Reece Gilpatrick let the game come to her and never forced the action, showing great feel for spacing and timing. She knocked down shots from deep and held her own defensively without fouling. Her calm, consistent approach stood out in the post group.
Highlights
Finley Parker
Finley
Parker
6'3" | SF/PF
River Ridge | 2027
State
GA
showed valuable versatility, playing on the block or sliding out to the wing depending on the matchup. She worked well in the pick-and-roll game and made key plays as a back-side rebounder. Her ability to adapt gave her team flexibility on both ends.
