Battle in Bridge City: Standouts

The tournament of the year in Saskatchewan did not disappoint, as Golden Ticket continues to grow and put on first-class tournaments. This past weekend saw the best collection of Saskatchewan talent probably ever assembled for one tournament, and they did not disappoint.

---

2027 6'5 Daniel Solarin Greenwave U18

• Daniel has looked incredible this summer, and college coaches are starting to notice. One of just a few Saskatchewan grade 12s who have not committed for next year, he is worth a hard look by CCAA and prep programs that need some size on the wing. Daniel continues to knock down shots from deep and is an extremely athletic attacking the paint, protecting the rim, and just playing hard, physical defense.

2027 6'6 Clarence Ermine Golden Ticket Thunder U18

• Clarence may have been the most improved Grade 12 in Saskatchewan this season, as he continues to dominate games. He has an inside-out game that makes him incredibly difficult to defend as he knows when to punish small defenders and is too quick for most big men to cover. He will be making a commitment in the next few weeks, and I highly recommend coaches keep him on your radar as I expect him to be in demand for 2027.

2027 6'4 Dom Campeau Golden Ticket Lloydminster U18

• Dom looks ready to compete for playing time at Lakeland College next season, as he demonstrated heart and leadership all weekend. On a squad missing multiple players to graduation, Dom competed hard in every facet of the game to keep his team in games. He did dirty work in the paint, rebounding and defending, and then stepped out and knocked down shots when his team needed him to.

2028 5'9 Kobe Thomson Golden Ticket U17 Glasspell

• Kobe is a player that you just can't help but fall in love with as long as you are not playing against him. I truly believe that he believes he is 6'6 as he is always in the middle of everything, from attacking the basket, to rebounding, to in-your-face pressure defense. And it isn't just his grit that makes him a prospect to watch; he handles the ball well, makes the right play, and knocks down open 3's.

2028 5'10 Isiah Acero Golden Ticket Thunder U18

• Isaiah showed great defensive instincts all weekend and made solid plays on a team with 2 dominant big men. He knocked down shots and put pressure on the rim. He will play a big role next season as a grade 12, and I will be watching his progress.

2028 6'2 Andrew Hawley Greenwave U18

• If you have read my articles, you know I have been watching Andrew for a while now, and his shooting and playmaking are as consistent as any player in Saskatchewan. This weekend was very different as Andrew showed he can play grinding, high-pressure defense and really get after his man. Andrew has committed to his fitness and conditioning over the last year, and it has paid off in spades. I am looking forward to a big grade 12 year from him.

2028 6'2 Lincoln Dickson Golden Ticket U17 Glasspell

• Lincoln continually impresses me with his ability to find ways to contribute, no matter his role. I have seen him be the featured player at O'Neill for several years, but on this very strong Golden Ticket squad, he has found a role and excelled. Coaches will want to check in on him throughout the next year.

2028 6'3 Luca Pek YXE Elite U18 Black

• Luca is just the high-level role player coaches need on winning teams. He is willing to defend the other team's best player, rebound, and dive on the floor, whatever his team asks of him. But he can also quietly drop 20 points and knock down big shots when called upon. Maybe the best quality is that his teammates love him. I sat with his high school teammates who play on a different club, and they cheered him on and were genuinely happy to see their guy succeeding.

2029 5'9 Marcus Aranda Greenwave U16

• Marcus is lightning-quick and knows exactly how to get past his man on offense, to both score himself and to set up teammates for open looks. In the finals, he showed he has long-range shooting, knocking down big 3s to force overtime. Most importantly, Marcus guards 48 feet, giving the opposition very little room to operate and make decisions. This will not be the last time I talk about Marcus as he heads into grade 11.

2029 6'1 Quinn MacDougall Soldiers U16

• Quinn was a pleasant surprise for me throughout the weekend as he continues to elevate his game. He showed crafty handles that allowed him to attack his defender to get himself quality scoring chances at all 3 levels.

2029 6'2 Lucas Lambden Greenwave U16

• Lucas is just another Greenwave prospect who plays hard, which is a common theme when you watch them. He did all the little things that helped the team win a championship. This was highlighted during the championship game, when he stepped in and took charge in overtime, essentially clinching the game.

2030 5'10 Maiker Makol Greenwave U16

• Maiker impressed me quickly when I watched him, and he is just 15, playing up in the U18 division. He is extremely quick and is a crafty ball handler. He breaks down defenders off the dribble, knocks down the 3, and plays aggressive defense. Watch for more as I really track him and his teammates (Syn Tyson and Paul Peterson) throughout the next several years; they are a special trio.

---

Thank you to Tanner, Kinger, and all the Golden Ticket staff for giving me access to whatever I needed to highlight these players.