OTR Hoops: Sweet 16 Recap – 2 Days with Austin Smith – May 21, 2024

The OnTheRadarHoops Sweet 16 tournament has concluded, affirming its status as one of the top events in the travel ball season. As a live period showcase, the competition at Etowah High School was spirited, especially in the 17U and 16U divisions. During my two-day visit, I observed standout performances and pivotal moments from the games I covered.

By: Austin Smith

Top Teams

Indiana Ambition 17U Shines with Teamwork and Clutch Performances

Indiana Ambition 17U emerged as a standout team in the OnTheRadarHoops Sweet 16 tournament, securing a thrilling 65-63 victory with two pivotal plays. A monster block by Alexander Niehaus set up Aydan Ayer’s game-winning layup, capping off their impressive Friday night. Their offense was a clinic on ball movement and unselfish play, reminiscent of a “Championship Productions” DVD. The team’s three-point shooting was particularly impressive, highlighted by:

• #0 Jakob Wongler (Pictured at Top): 13 points, including 3 triples, showcasing his craftiness and shooting ability.
• #25 Jay Summitt (Pictured Above: 11 points, known for his aggressive play and versatility.
• #33 Aydan Ayer (Pictured Below): The hero of the game with the game-winning basket, demonstrating his clutch performance.

 

Indiana Ambition 17U’s victory not only showcased their ability to execute under pressure but also established them as a team to watch in the tournament. Their teamwork and precision on both ends of the court set them apart and left a lasting impression on spectators.

Above Academy 15U Shines with Cohesive Team Play and Sharp Shooting

Above Academy’s 15U team made a strong impression at the OnTheRadarHoops Sweet 16 tournament, delivering a standout performance in their 71-41 victory over Small Town Hoops. Their cohesive team play, and sharp shooting were on full display, showcasing their ability to make all the right basketball plays.

• #14 Dylan Scheets: Led the team with 20 points, displaying his scoring ability and impact.
• #1 Hogan Labyak: Added 11 points, showing his skills and leadership.
• #44 Colton Nuualiitia: Scored 10 points and dominated the boards with numerous rebounds.
• #21 Tyler Kroog: Contributed 11 points, bolstering the team’s offensive output.

This team was a personal favorite of mine. Underclassmen who learn “How” to play ultimately set themselves up for success later in their careers. The skill and IQ of this group should lead to a ton of great basketball throughout the remainder of the summer.

Dynamic Duos

2026 5’11 G Elijah Romulus – Elite 8 Select // 2026 6’1 G Ethan Chevres – Elite 8 Select

In a dynamic “1-2” punch style fashion, Elijah Romulus and Ethan Chevres were instrumental in Elite 8 Select’s thrilling 62-60 victory over Dirty South Elite on Saturday morning. The game went back-and-forth, but ultimately, Elite 8 Select took the reins late in the second half. Romulus showcased his attacking style, contributing 20 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 steals, displaying his ability to attack downhill and shoot from deep. Meanwhile, Chevres played a key role with 14 points, 4 assists, and 2 steals, demonstrating his high basketball IQ and versatility as a playmaker. Together, they cultivated big momentum plays for their team in a hard-fought win, noted as one of the better backcourt performances over the weekend.

 

2025 6’0 G Jaylon Seymour – Dor5 Elite // 2025 6’5 G/F Brice Proctor – Dor5 Elite

Jalylon Seymour and Brice Proctor played pivotal roles in Dor5 Elite’s impressive 60-48 victory over Stars Basketball on the opening night of the #SweetSixteen Tournament. Seymour, a dynamic scoring combo guard, led the charge with 20 points, showcasing his ability to put points on the board effectively. Meanwhile, Proctor contributed 14 points, displaying his power and skillset at all three levels of the court. Using his “big guard” frame, he demonstrated scoring out of post ups and strong drives to the basket, showing a nice touch on his jump shot as well.

2026 6’0 PG Jeremiah Jones – Hoop Grind // 2026 6’10 F Mechack Olungu – Hoop Grind

Who doesn’t love a dynamic inside-outside duo? That’s who Jeremiah Jones and Mechack Olungu were following a close win on Saturday evening vs. GAA. Jones, a scoring PG, lead the offensive front with 23 points. His game-high outing came from a variety of scoring opportunities at all three levels. Mechack Olungu punched in a 16-point performance with clutch offensive rebounds leading to easy putbacks. His efforts inside the paint allowed Hoop Grind to control the tempo of the game and ultimately earn a +1 in the W column.

Individual Top Performers

2026 6’7 F Duor Duor – D Favors Celtics

Duor Duor, a 6-foot-7 forward from the class of 2026 playing for the D-Favors Celtics, continues to elevate his game and garner attention from scouts. Known for his impressive motor, Duor competes relentlessly on both ends of the floor. He showcased his perimeter versatility in the second half, with a solid catch-and-shoot three-pointer and the ability to handle pressure. Duor’s athleticism stands out, running the floor with long, powerful strides, and he excels at finishing in transition. A strong rebounder who attacks the boards with both hands at rim level, Duor also showcases shot-blocking prowess and the ability to defend multiple positions. His performance highlights his potential as a top-notch defender and a player to watch closely in the 2026 class this summer.

2025 6’0 G Phil Nelson – TG Pro Select

Phil Nelson, a 6-foot guard playing for TG Pro Select, showcased an impressive performance on the court. Built like a power running back with exceptional athleticism, Nelson excelled with downhill drives and getting paint touches, finishing strongly through contact. His aggressive style of play led to a highly impressive 21-point game. Nelson’s ability to attack the basket and finish through defenders highlights his scoring prowess and physicality on the court.

2025 6’5 W/F Braden Roberts – Stars Basketball Club White (Hickman)

Braden Roberts of Stars Basketball-White showed his resilience and skill in a tough matchup against Miami Dor5 Elite, despite the loss. At 6’5”, he plays with the tenacity of a true competitor, demonstrating his toughness throughout the game. Roberts made a plethora of high IQ plays on both ends of the court, contributing 17 points through strong drives, savvy off-ball cuts, and precise three-point shooting. His active defense added to his impact, making him a formidable presence on both ends of the floor. Roberts’ versatility, determination, and all-around skills make him a standout player to keep an eye on throughout the summer.

2025 6’1 G Antonio Pollard – Powerhouse Bulls 2025 Select

An 18-point performance was no problem for Antonio Pollard of the Powerhouse Bulls 2025 Select. His team cruised to a massive 27-point victory on Friday night, and he was the catalyst. He demonstrated a relentless ability to beat defenders off the dribble for finishes at the rim. He kept his foot on the gas by applying pressure offensively all game long.