Alley - Oop: Main Event - Standout Performers
- david-harmon
- Jun 27
- 4 min read
What a club season it has been out west! Since the first Alley Op in April, I have attended 8 tournaments, traveled to Calgary twice, Edmonton twice, Regina once, and 3 more home here in Saskatoon. That means I've driven 48 hours, watched over 200 games, featured 80 players from 5 provinces, and would not have changed a single thing.
Once again, the crew at Alley-Oop hosted a packed tourney with 300+ teams across 27 courts in 4 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.
2027 | Henry Fairbanks | 6'8 | FYB
Henry is going to be a great addition to the program that remembers him in 2 years after he returns from his mission. A highly skilled big man who has an incredible IQ and creates space all over the floor for his teammates by using his passing, shooting, and ability to dominate the paint with his size.
2027 | Ayom Ayom | 6'5 | Northside
Ayom is long and athletic, causing consistent problems for opposing teams all weekend. He threw down several dunks even when they challenged him at the rim and used his long frame to disrupt 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, and I like what Coach Sowden has with him. Finnis is a smooth athlete who made many high-IQ plays for his team over the weekend. He cut efficiently, found space to get the ball on offense, and attacked the rim when he got it.
2027 | Bol Bol | 6'6 | Supreme
Bol is headed to Ridley College Prep in Ontario next season and could be a talent whose stick rises with a higher-profile program. Anyone out west who has seen Bol play knows he has a high ceiling; he is a high-level athlete, has great length, and his skill set translates well to a higher level.
2028 | Justice Arciaga | 5'10 | Dalluyon Wave
Justice is just about as complete a point guard as I have seen all summer in club ball out west. This should be no surprise to anyone who has seen him grow at FX, and next year, when he takes the primary role, I would expect their success to continue. What really impressed me over the weekend was Justice's willingness to take on the role of coach on the floor and to direct his teammates on both offense and defense.
2028 | Isaac Hogan | 6'5 | FYB
Isaac is going to have a big grade 12 year, and USport coaches are already taking notice. Playing on a very talented FYB team, although he stands out by playing the right way and making solid, smart plays. He has the ability to use his size and strength in the paint but also step out, keep the offense flowing, or knock down shots when open.
2028 | Nolan Becker | 6'7 | Supreme
Nolan really impressed me throughout the weekend, and coaches will want to watch him and his development over the next season. He has great instincts for rebounding and positioning himself to battle in the tough areas, and 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 prospect we see rising quickly.
2028 | Victor Bjarnason | 6'6 | Island Swish
Victor showed a good first step and the ability to create a lot of pressure getting to the rim with his size. He defended multiple positions, rebounded at a high rate, and 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 who demonstrated a strong skill set throughout the weekend. He puts the ball on the floor, the full 48 feet, and makes plays not only for himself but also for his teammates. He sees the floor well and makes good, timely passes, but also attacks the rim to score. Looking 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 who showed incredible toughness with his finishing in tough areas all weekend. 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.
Again, thank you to Brady and the team for having me out to evaluate what, again, is a great tournament and environment for basketball, celebrating how much it keeps growing in Western Canada. Where else could I just sit courtside at 1 court (shoutout Air Partners for sponsoring the platinum division court) and have coaches from all levels just stop by and chat, not to mention people I have known for 25+ years in this game.
It was a great club season, and now I'm preparing to cover nationals right here in Regina, SK, this August. Watch for another preview article this year as our amazing team here at The Maple Minute comes together to share our insights on what our respective provinces will be showcasing.
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