Alley - Oop: Main Event - Standout Performers

What a club season it has been out west! Since the first Alley Op in April, I have attended eight tournaments. I traveled to Calgary twice, Edmonton twice, Regina once, and three more times here in Saskatoon. That means I've driven 48 hours and watched over 200 games. I featured 80 players from five provinces. I would not change a single thing.

Once again, the crew at Alley-Oop hosted a packed tournament. There were over 300 teams across 27 courts in four buildings on the University of Calgary campus. With most provinces practicing with their provincial teams, I had the chance to see some players step up and catch my eye.

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Standout Players from the Season

2027 | Henry Fairbanks | 6'8 | FYB

Henry is a great addition to the program. He is a highly skilled big man with an incredible IQ. He creates space for his teammates by using his passing, shooting, and ability to dominate the paint.

2027 | Ayom Ayom | 6'5 | Northside

Ayom is long and athletic. He caused consistent problems for opposing teams all weekend. He threw down several dunks even when challenged at the rim. His long frame disrupted on defense. Ayom is still unsigned for next year and could be a good late pick-up for an ACAc or post-grad program.

2027 | Finn Bayly | 6'6 | Swan City

Finn is committed to Briercrest next season. He is a smooth athlete who made many high-IQ plays for his team. He cut efficiently, found space on offense, and attacked the rim when he got the ball.

2027 | Bol Bol | 6'6 | Supreme

Bol is headed to Ridley College Prep in Ontario next season. He is a talent whose stock could rise with a higher-profile program. Anyone who has seen Bol play knows he has a high ceiling. He is a high-level athlete with great length, and his skill set translates well to a higher level.

2028 | Justice Arciaga | 5'10 | Dalluyon Wave

Justice is one of the most complete point guards I have seen this summer. This should be no surprise to anyone who has seen him grow at FX. Next year, when he takes the primary role, I expect their success to continue. What impressed me was Justice's willingness to direct his teammates on both offense and defense.

2028 | Isaac Hogan | 6'5 | FYB

Isaac is set for a big grade 12 year. USport coaches are already taking notice. Playing on a talented FYB team, he stands out by making solid, smart plays. He can use his size and strength in the paint and step out to keep the offense flowing or knock down shots when open.

2028 | Nolan Becker | 6'7 | Supreme

Nolan impressed me throughout the weekend. Coaches will want to watch his development over the next season. He has great instincts for rebounding and positioning himself in tough areas. When he attacks the ball, he secures it high where only he can reach it. As his offensive game rounds out, he could be a rising prospect.

2028 | Victor Bjarnason | 6'6 | Island Swish

Victor showed a good first step and the ability to create pressure getting to the rim. He defended multiple positions and rebounded at a high rate. He will continue to grow as he plays for Aspen Ridge's new prep program out of Nanaimo, BC, next season.

2028 | Colten Siebold | 6'5 | Develop

Colten is an extremely well-rounded player. He demonstrated a strong skill set throughout the weekend. He puts the ball on the floor and makes plays for himself and his teammates. He sees the floor well and makes good, timely passes. He also attacks the rim to score. I look forward to seeing him with Alberta in August, as I am sure many college coaches are.

2028 | Ben Tomasson | 6'6 | Island Swish

Ben is a long, fluid athlete. He showed incredible toughness with his finishing in tough areas. He attacks the ball high on his way to the rim, looking for lobs and rebounds. Look for him to continue developing with Aspen Ridge as well.

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Reflections on the Season

Thank you to Brady and the team for having me out to evaluate what is again a great tournament. The environment for basketball keeps growing in Western Canada. Where else could I sit courtside at one court (shoutout Air Partners for sponsoring the platinum division court) and have coaches from all levels stop by to chat? I even met people I have known for over 25 years in this game.

It was a great club season. Now, I am preparing to cover nationals right here in Regina, SK, this August. Watch for another preview article this year. Our amazing team here at The Maple Minute will share insights on what our respective provinces will showcase.

In conclusion, the club season has been a whirlwind of talent and competition. I look forward to seeing how these players develop and where they end up. The future of basketball in Canada is bright, and I am excited to be part of it.