Talkin Hoops in Da Sip- 2025 Standouts

Ridgeland (MS) 6’ Phil Nelson

We will get things started with the MVP of this game. It didn’t take Phil long to get going in this one. He was relentless going to the basket and muscling guys out of the way to score. On top of that he did a great job of getting to his spots and knocking down jumpers. He’s known for his willingness to guard opposing teams top player, but on the day he showcased his offensive arsenal. Nelson put guys on notice with his dunk attempted that he was fouled on, that bounced in. He finished with 21pts 8reb 4stls

Callaway (MS) 6’ Javarian Mallard

Mallard is one that we’ve known about last few years. This was year 2 at the event for him and he didn’t disappoint. He was able to break down defenders off the dribble and get to the basket at will. His ability to get to the rim is second to none and he does a great job of finding teammates for open shots. Mallard and Nelson had a few nice exchanges when the game got tight. Mallard came in already tabbed as one of the top freshman in the state and rightfully so.We should look for Mallard to have a strong summer and continue to get better!

Saltillo (MS) 6’5 Demetrius Duffy

Moving on to Duffy we have a great prospect that gets a lot done. Coming from Saltillo many areyet to hear about or see Duffy. Duffy was tabbed an All-Region performer after his first varsity season. On the day he was a dominant force around the basket. He’s a strong rebounder and finishes everything at the rim. Duffy finished with a double double. One thing we see that he added to his game is explosion. He seems to be a little more agile and bouncy. Duffy is without a doubt a top 10 freshman in the state and will only get better.

St. Martin (MS) 6’4 Kai Vieira

Next up we have Kai Vieira. Coming into to the event we didn’t know anything about him, but that didn’t last long once the ball was tipped. He has a soft touch around the basket, moves well, and can step out to knock down jumpers. Whats even more intriguing is this is only his 2nd year playing basketball. He already displayed a good feel for the game and with more reps we can expect Kai to be in that top 15 mix for the 2025 class.

Columbus (MS) 6’ Jace Oneal

Moving on we have Jace who was another very good guard on the day. O’neal did a great job at getting paint touches and finishing through contact. He was able to convert lay ups with either hand and stepped out to 3 and make shots. He makes good reads and is a sound decision maker at the guard spot. What stood out the most was how easy it was for him to score and get others easy buckets. He turned a lot of heads with his play and will be one to watch the next few seasons.

Summer Hill Jr High (MS) Christien Cunning

Next we have Cunning who was one of the best defenders in this game. He came out with a lot of energy and had a very productive day. His ability to get down hill and finish strong at the basket was hard not to notice. He was everywhere on defense forcing tons of steals and just disrupting the offense for the other squad. He will be one to watch moving forward.