17U Hidden Gems Who Made Noise at Peach Games

While the marquee names drew plenty of attention, the 17U division at the PGH Peach Games also provided a strong platform for under-the-radar and underrated prospects to make their mark. At Next Play 360, a number of players stepped up with impactful performances and showed they belong in conversations beyond their current exposure. From Friday night through Sunday afternoon, these prospects capitalized on their opportunities by contributing to winning basketball and flashing tools that translate to the next level. This group may not carry the huge recognition yet, but their play made it clear they are names worth tracking moving forward. Here are some hidden gems from Peach Games:    Mariah knocked down multiple threes during the time I watched her and consistently spaced the floor. She showed a good first step and speed to get into the paint and then collapsed the defense and created advantages with that penetration. She also pushed the pace effectively in transition with control. Mariah finished a smooth runner off the glass and demonstrated strong playmaking instincts, including a well-timed bounce pass and sharp angle on a post entry to reward her big. Defensively, she stood out with her ability to lock in by making solid rotations and adjustments throughout.     MaKaiya used her long frame to make a strong impact on defense as she tipped passes and secured rebounds. She got downhill at will and put constant pressure on the defense while finishing at the rim. She was especially impressive on the offensive glass as she attacked the glass and tracked the ball well off the rim to create extra possessions. MaKaiya came up with a big offensive rebound and putback late in the game that shifted momentum. Her ability to control the boards played a major role in her team's win.     Angel made an impressive play with a tough catch-and-shoot three in the corner while on the move. Her hustle stood out the most, as she consistently played with a relentless motor, including diving on the floor for loose balls. She was disruptive defensively with active hands that led to steals and easy scoring opportunities. In transition, she finished well at the rim with either hand and showed strong body control throughout.     Kendall's defensive intensity stood out right away as she consistently made her presence felt as a ball hawk and found ways to be around the action. She showed strong instincts and seemed to make the right play time and time again. Offensively, she delivered a big and-one finish that brought energy to her team and shifted momentum.     Malaysha is a lefty with a smooth shooting stroke and nice elevation on her jumper. She attacks the basket to open things up offensively for her team and puts pressure on the defense. She plays hard on both ends of the floor and competes consistently with great energy. Laysha has good handles and can create her own shot, and she is capable of knocking down the pull-up jumper and mid-range shot.

While the marquee names drew plenty of attention, the 17U division at the PGH Peach Games also provided a strong platform for under-the-radar and underrated prospects to make their mark. At Next Play 360, a number of players stepped up with impactful performances and showed they belong in conversations beyond their current exposure. From Friday night through Sunday afternoon, these prospects capitalized on their opportunities by contributing to winning basketball and flashing tools that translate to the next level. This group may not carry the huge recognition yet, but their play made it clear they are names worth tracking moving forward. Here are some hidden gems from Peach Games: