Elizabeth, NJ – No Boyz Allowed All-Star weekend featured two Middle schools aka “We are the future” as the undercard to the main event. The 1st game was comprised of student-athletes from the 2027 class and the 2nd tilt was made up of 2026 student-athletes.
The event mimicked NBA’s All-Star weekend, where Friday night featured a Skills Challenge but with a slight twist. Players were joined on the court with their Dad’s where they competed against others from throughout the northeast. Despite competing against duos from NY, NJ, DE, DMV, PA, and CT it was the Quinn family (Kieran & Sidney Quinn) that came out on top.
Below are some of the middle schoolers who caught my eye Saturday.
Olivia Vukosa 6’4 F/P Philly Belles (PA) 2027
Already known as “Big-O” by many in the east coast basketball circles. In the world of youth bball sometimes being tall is all you really need. But in Olivia's case, she also has many perimeter skill sets to complement her size. During the game, she demonstrated the ability to play facing the basket as well as the ability to play as a “traditional big”. Due to her size and advanced skill set, she will be a top 10 prospect in the 2026 class.
Gigi Battle 5’7 G NJ Shoreshots (NJ) 2026
Strong built slashing guard, who competed on both ends of the court, finished through contact and was very efficient. As the game went along, she played stronger and stronger and was able to get to and convert from the free throw line. Look forward to seeing her progression as she grows physically and adds to her north -south ability.
Jezelle Banks 5’6 PG NJ Sparks (NJ) 2027
The only player allowed to play in both 7th & 8th-grade games. FYI, she won MVP in the 8th-grade game. Nice slick ball handler that can get into the lane to score, drive and kick or drive and dish. Played with heart and is fearless in attacking the rim. Knocked down just enough jumpers to keep the defense “honest”. She was and will fun to watch as she continues to develop.
Regina Baker 5’7 G NJ Sparks (NJ) 2027
This young athletic guard reminded me of Paris Clark with her ability to finish over big’s in the lane. She finished the first Futures game with 24 points securing herself the MVP award for the seventh grade.
Jessie Moses 5’6 PG Philly rise (PA) 2027
As always, Moses was fun to watch and especially when playing with her age group. This smooth combo guard can score with the best of them. She was the only player to connect on three, 3 pointers all day. Finishing with 17 of her team 42 points.
Taylor Brown 5’5 PG NJ Sparks (NJ) 2027
Slippery deceptive guard that was equally as effective on or off the ball. She carried her team to a victory, as the team’s second-leading scorer finishing with 13 points. On the offensive end, Brown demonstrated range to the arc and the ability to play at her own pace. Oh, and her perimeter defense did not go unnoticed either.