OTR Hoops: 2029 Prospects to Watch This Spring (Part 1)

The Grassroots season is approaching, and we will be breaking down some of the top players to watch in their respective classes. Here are some of the top freshmen to watch for this upcoming spring and summer.

Braylen Alexander - Glenwood (Alabama) - 2029: Alexander has a multi-level scoring skillset where he can create his own shot playing on the ball as well as off the ball on the offensive end. On the defensive end, he applies heavy pressure on the ball and plays with a ton of physicality, where he frustrates opposing guards as well as forcing the opposition into taking a tough shot. His upside continues to raise national attention, where he is the focal point on most opposing teams’ scouting reports. Alexander already holds an offer from Southern Miss, but can expect more schools to call on him over the next three years.

Kayveon Blijden - Jordan Christian Prep (Florida)  - 2029: Blijden does a great job when it comes to finishing at the rim on the attack on the offensive end. His high-IQ allows him to make great decisions in the open court, where he doesn’t force passes and can find open teammates on the move. On the defensive end, he can guard positions 1 through 3 with his elite footwork and athleticism, where he can read the next pass before it happens. His ability to be a high-level rebounder for his size has taken huge strides in his versatility and athleticism. College coaches need to start taking notice of Blijden as he could be an early bloomer on the recruiting trail.

Reggie “RJ” Evans Jr - (Florida) - 2029: Evans has a strong frame that he uses to get downhill and attack the basket as well as closing out on shooters. On offense, he is a strong finisher around the rim as well as creating for his teammates. On the defensive end, he is very active in the passing lanes as well as battling on the glass using his physicality, where he competes on every possession. Evans is a promising two-way wing with a high ceiling, where he could start getting notice from college coaches. His combination skillset, including his elite decision-making and versatility, could build momentum as Evans’ rises in the 2029 rankings not just in the state but nationally.

Brendan Fragela - Westminster Christian (Florida) - 2029: Fragela is one of the most creative scorers among guards in the class, where he can stop on a dime, connecting from the perimeter, as well as finishing at the front of the rim. He has a strong handle of the basketball, as well as showing tons of poise as a playmaker from the lead guard position. On the defensive end, Fragela plays with energy and toughness, whether it is out on the perimeter or playing at the front of the rim. With more confidence in being a two-way player, Fragela could make a lot of noise on the recruitment trail for years to come.

Armani Morris - Lakeland (Florida) - 2029: Morris is a game-changer when it comes to his ability to score on all three levels, whether it’s off the catch or bounce. On the defensive end, he is a tenacious on-the-ball defender who creates energy with his hustle and gets deflections in the passing lanes. He is also an above-average rebounder for his size who pushes tempo and plays with a high motor. His combination skillset, including his three-level scoring and constant energy on the defensive end, should draw a ton of attention as the spring and summer season approaches.

Ross Van De Griek has been a southeast region scout & writer for On The Radar Hoops since 2024. He has been involved in basketball scouting with stops at Prep Hoops since 2022. You can follow him on X @RossVDG14 or reach him via email at rossvdg14@gmail.com.