8th Grade AAU Nationals Field Uncovers Several Sleepers
by Eric Hampford, Future150 (10:18 PM CT, Wed July 12, 2017)

Orlando, FL (Future150) -- With the emergence of shoe circuit events in the month of July, the 8th Grade AAU Nationals field isn't quite as strong as years past. However, the field has given us a look at several sleeper prospects who are set to emerge on the high school scene over the next year. What storylines and standouts have piqued the interest of our staff? Chicago's potential #1 point guard in the 2021 class & a 6'4" wing prospect from West Virginia are a few of the surprises of the event.

Kimahri Wilson - Chicago's Best Point Guard Prospect?

The breakout star of the event has been 5'11" point guard prospect  Kimahri Wilson from North Chicago. Electric in the open floor, he's shown an extra gear in Orlando, and is not only a flashy passer, but an excellent finisher around the rim. As he gets ready to start his high school career at Mount Carmel High School (IL), he looks like the best point guard in the city and one of the best in the entire Midwest region.

Trey Alexander A Cut Above The Rest In Orlando

One of the best prospects in the Southwest, Oklahoma City guard Trey Alexander has had an excellent AAU season to date. His play in Orlando continued that trend, as he's been one of the most consistent scorers we've seen. The long 6'3" wing gets to the rim with regularity and gets to the free-throw line at a very high rate. Not only does he produce big numbers now, but his long term projections have us excited as well.

Amare Smith Emerging In West Virginia

The state of West Virginia doesn't have many homegrown division one talents come through their neck of the woods on a regular basis, but 6'4" small forward Amare Smith looks like he could be one of those guys. Due to his excellent frame, he plays both forward spots for his ESBA Elite (WV) team, and has shown that he can score on all three levels. While he needs to tighten his handle and improve his quickness and shooting consistency, there are some good tools to work with for the Huntington High School (WV) product.

Is Tre Carroll Florida's Next Sleeper?

Florida Future (FL) had a solid run at AAU Nationals, with several prospects sharing the load offensively. One under-the-radar prospect who had some impressive moments was 6'4" small forward Tre Carroll. A smooth lefty with a nice shooting stroke, he always finds himself around the ball. Young for his grade, it's easy to see a lot of growth left in his frame, and we expect him to really catch on during his 9th grade AAU season. Just remember where you heard it first. 

4 More Standouts From 8th Grade AAU Nationals:

David Joplin, 2021 Post, Ray Allen Select (WI): The 6'6" post has been one of the most impressive big men in Orlando, helping to lead his team to the championship game tomorrow. This week, he's shown that he can finish well around the rim, and has nice feet on the low block. As he continues to grow, he looks like he will develop into one of the best interior prospects in Wisconsin. 

Darrion Williams, 2022 SF, Ballers Select (CA): One of the more impressive long term prospects in the event has been the 6'3" small forward. Sporting size 15 feet, the Sacramento, California product should blossom into one of the best wing prospects on the West Coast over the next few years. 

Scottie Ebube, 2021 Post, Kessel Heat (IL): A high-motor 6'6" post prospect, he's been relentless on both ends of the floor for his team, leading them to the championship game taking place tomorrow afternoon. He finishes well around the rim, and rebounds absolutely everything in his area. 

Kaleb Washington, 2021 SG/SF, Georgia United (GA): There's a lot to like about the Pebblebrook High School incoming freshman. Already 6'4" with long arms and ability to move well on the perimeter, it's easy to envision him developing into one of the better guard prospects in the Atlanta metropolitan area in the coming years, provided he works for it.