Talkin Hoops in Da Sip- Middle schoolStand Outs

Last Friday night we kicked off the 2nd Annual Talkin Hoops in da SIP Showcase. This year we added two middle school games to the showcase. We had some of the top middle school guys and girls from across the state of Mississippi come and compete at Ridgeland High School. The night tipped off with the 2026/27 girls showcase game followed by the 3 point contest. The boys game followed immediately after the contest. Below we take a look at some of the standouts from the game.

Hillcrest (MS) 5’8 PG Ashton Manuel

Manuel was on that really stood out Friday night. He’s a really crafty guard who excels in the half court setting. He’s able to make good reads to find teammates, and can make you pay if you go under the screen. Manuel can finish at the rim and knock down shots from deep off the catch or dribble.

Heritage Academy (MS) 5’8 PG Xzavier Webber

Xzavier came out firing from the tip; scoring the Orange teams first 5 points. He was quick in transitions and got to his spots at will. He knocked down shots from mid-range and from beyond the arc. He used his quick first step to blow by defenders to get paint touches. He either found an open teammate or scored a bucket. His play earned him MVP honors on the night. One to watch going forward for the 2026 class.

Starkville (MS) 6’1 SG Jaden Tate

Tate was super quick in transition. He used his size and athleticism to get downhill and finish at the rim. He does a great job of finishing acrobatic layups and he is capable of knocking down shots from anywhere. He put his stamp on the game with a big dunk to end the game!

New Hope (MS) 6’ CG TJ Warren

TJ was one of the few guys in the game who played varsity this season. It was easy to tell that since he was a few steps ahead of the competition. He took advantage of one on one match ups and got to the basket often. He displayed a smooth float game and a strong feel for the game. One to watch going forward for the 2026 Class

Ingomar (MS) 6’1 CG JoJo Petty

Petty is one that plays with a high motor at all times. He’s a rebounding machine and uses his athleticism well. He has a strong body for a 8th grader and it’s tough for other guards to try to contain him. Petty finished well around the rim on the night and rebounded the ball at a high level from the guard spot. We can look for him to continue to be a key player at the high school level for years to come.

Ridgeland (MS) 6’1 G Cleo Nichols

Nichols was another great athlete that took part in the game this weekend. He plays with maximum effort and gets a lot done on both ends of the floor. He can handle the ball well, and takes advantage when smaller guards are on him. He dominated the paint areas as well. Cleo will be another to keep on your radar.

Northwest Rankin Middle (MS) 2027 6’1 De’Shawn Dillion

Dillion was the lone 7th grade in this game. He comes in as one of the top guards in the 2027 class nationally. He showed that he comes equipped with an elite handle, can defend multiple positions, and knows how to get buckets. He also plays with a nonstop motor and rebounds well. He had some nice plays in the game on both ends of the floor. He will be one to watch for years to come as he’s only 13 years old.

Biggersville (MS) 6’1 Brook Seago

Seago was a guy that did a little bit of everything. He has excellent footwork around the basket, plays hard nosed defense, and can shoot it from anywhere. He never stops working when he’s on the floor. He touches every 50/50 ball and creates second chance opportunities often. He was another that got time as a 8th grader on the varsity floor with Biggersville. They went on to win the 1A state championship.