OTR Hoops: Southeast Takeover OTR X Hoopseen Standouts – May 6, 2025
The Southeast Takeover with HoopSeen in Suwanee, Georgia brought out some of the top young talent in the Southeast. The 2029 class in particular was filled with promising prospects who made their mark with standout performances. Here are a few of the most impressive players we evaluated over the weekend.
By: Jacob Vann-Reifler
Anthony Moreno – Georgia Stars Jr. EYBL – 2029
A highly skilled guard with a polished handle and deep scoring bag, Moreno made a major impression by doing more than just putting up points. He ran the show from the point guard position, navigating pick-and-rolls, setting up teammates, and controlling tempo. Defensively, he was just as effective, hounding ball-handlers and forcing turnovers with active hands and relentless energy.
Cadien Hudson – Georgia Stars Jr. EYBL – 2029
Hudson looked like one of the most complete players in the gym. With his size, athleticism, and advanced skillset, he scored in a variety of ways and took over stretches of games. His motor never stopped running, and he made his presence felt on both ends of the floor. Hudson was vocal, competitive, and showed leadership qualities that elevated his team. Defensively, he embraced the challenge of guarding top assignments and took pride in locking up opponents. His long-term upside is extremely high.
Cruz Jackson – AE5 Jr. 3SSB – 2029
Jackson was a standout two-way threat who impacted the game from start to finish. Offensively, he scored efficiently within the flow of the offense, showing the ability to attack off the dribble, finish through contact, and knock down open jumpers. Defensively, his length and anticipation were elite, as he disrupted passing lanes and applied consistent ball pressure. He also rebounded well for his position, often securing second-chance opportunities and pushing the pace in transition.
Elijah Ross – AOT Jr. EYBL – 2029
Ross plays with poise and command, embodying the role of a true point guard. He excelled at getting his teammates involved, often making advanced reads in transition and the half-court to create scoring opportunities. His passing accuracy and vision were top-tier, and he operated well in tight spaces. On defense, Ross was a pest, pressuring ball-handlers full court and forcing turnovers through effort and quick hands.
Jackson Baldwin – Tier2Elite – 2029
Baldwin was a model of consistency throughout the weekend, running the offense with confidence and creating opportunities for both himself and his teammates. He’s a high-IQ guard who understands how to control the pace, read defenses, and make smart decisions with the basketball. Offensively, he showed a smooth shooting touch, good finishing ability around the rim, and creative shot-making when the defense collapsed.
Jaylence Byrd – Alabama Fusion Jr. EYBL – 2029
Byrd impressed with his mature approach to the game and ability to manage the flow of play. He played within himself, making smart reads, getting into the paint, and setting the table for teammates with unselfish passes. His footwork and handle helped him break down defenders, and he showed strong finishing ability from midrange and at the rim. On defense, he was reliable and fundamentally sound, rotating well and helping close out shooters.
KJ Thomas – Alabama Fusion Jr. EYBL – 2029
Thomas was one of the most physically imposing guards at the event, using his strength and explosiveness to bully defenders and finish with authority. He brought highlight-level athleticism, throwing down dunks in transition and powering through contact in the half-court. Beyond the flashy plays, he brought consistent energy and effort, locking in defensively and crashing the glass on both ends. His physical tools allowed him to guard multiple positions and create havoc for opposing guards.
Majok Mayuen Kau – Georgia Stars Jr. EYBL – 2029
Majok was an unstoppable force around the basket, dunking everything in sight and altering shots with his sheer presence. He operated out of the dunker spot to perfection, timing his cuts and finishing with power. His ability to move well in transition and rim-run gave his team an extra dimension, as he sprinted the floor for lob finishes and second-chance buckets. Defensively, he protected the paint with discipline, staying vertical and contesting everything in his area.
Shane Collins – AE5 Jr. 3SSB – 2029
Collins played with a high level of intensity and confidence, constantly putting pressure on defenders with his aggressive mindset. He attacked closeouts, finished through contact, and wasn’t afraid to take big shots when his team needed a spark. His toughness and competitiveness were contagious, and he consistently made hustle plays that energized his squad. Defensively, he showed quick feet, strong hands, and a willingness to take on difficult assignments. Collins brings a certain edge to the floor, he plays with a chip on his shoulder and competes every possession.
