Emerging Prospects This Holiday Hoops Season

The holiday hoops season brought no shortage of action, and it provided an opportunity to catch multiple events and evaluate new and emerging talent. Between the Tampa Bay Christmas Invitational and the SUTS New Years Classic, a number of prospects showed their game against strong competition to prove themselves and put themselves firmly on the radar. Here are a few players who stood out and are worth keeping an eye on moving forward:    Tatum showed good elevation on her jumper and the ability to score from all three levels in Tampa. She played with consistent energy and effort on both ends of the floor by using her motor to impact the game defensively with rebounds and big blocks. Her confidence, handles, and versatility make her a 2027 prospect that continues to gain traction.     The first thing that stood out was Julia's willingness to make hustle plays, including diving on the floor for loose balls. She showed the ability to knock down shots from deep and displayed good vision with a well-timed assist from the top of the key to a backcutting teammate. Julia is an unselfish guard with good strength and athleticism that stays engaged and competitive on every single play.     AJ displayed deep shooting range with a smooth, confident stroke. She used her size and length to impact the game on the boards and defensively by blocking a big shot in a critical moment at the TBCI. Stegeman possesses a strong frame and nice upside for a 2029 prospect that shows two-way potential moving forward.     Jess brings a strong frame and plays with consistent effort on both ends. She rebounds well and competes on every single possession. Jesslymar finished through contact with either hand and showed good body control around the rim that allowed her to maneuver through defenders and convert tough scoring opportunities.     Yifan made the most of her minutes by consistently bringing energy and effort. She showed a strong spin move attacking the rim and good elevation on her jumper. Zhou combines athleticism with good size which allowed her to impact the game whenever she was on the floor in a competitive matchup in Tampa.     Jate is a quick point guard that plays with good handle and pace. She uses a strong hesitation move to create separation and get downhill where she has crafty finishing ability at the rim with either hand. Hicks plays with a good motor and stays aggressive throughout possessions by consistently putting pressure on her opponents.

The holiday hoops season brought no shortage of action, and it provided an opportunity to catch multiple events and evaluate new and emerging talent. Between the Tampa Bay Christmas Invitational and the SUTS New Years Classic, a number of prospects showed their game against strong competition to prove themselves and put themselves firmly on the radar. Here are a few players who stood out and are worth keeping an eye on moving forward: