Canandaigua, NY – Over the weekend NYGHoops Report took a trip to western New York, to attend the 5thSlinky Academy. The event was hosted by Nicole Michael who goes by Slinky. Michael is a former Pro hooper & Syracuse University legend. Like in years past it was worth the trip, I got the chance to see some talented players. This write-up will focus on some of the top performers at the camp.
Amya MCloud 5’6 Point Guard I90 Elite (NY) 2023
McCloud was one of the players that stood out right form the beginning during individual drills. Confident leader style guard with combo game keeps defenders’ honest range to the arc. She is quick, crafty with the ball, and reads the floor well knowing where to find her teammates on the floor putting them in the right situations to score.
Kaia Goode 5’3 Point Guard I90 Elite (NY) 2022
During the drills Goode was sharp and attentive and pushed herself. But as soon as we got into 5 on 5 completion Goode really separated herself from the pack. The floor general, made it a bit uncomfortable for the opposition applying some pressure on the defensive end. Another thing that caught my eye her willingness to share the ball and her accuracy from behind the arc.
Loren Green 5’5 Guard Syracuse Royals (NY) 2027
While she may have been one of the youngest prospects at the camp. During 5 on 5 play she may have been one of the most aggressive at creating her own shot. Green was a dependable ball handler who displayed range to the arc. Efficient scorer that can play high school hoops this year. She is a name that we are sure we will hear again sooner than later.
Leah Middleton 5’10 Wing I90 Elite (NY) 2023
Middleton reminds me of a former I90 player Amani Free. While not quite the scorer that free was at this point but her all around game. Athletic, combo G/F, would thrive transition game drives and finishes at the rim. Gets better each time out last saw her at Atlantic City in July.
Caydence Hadley 6’ Forward I90 Elite (NY) 2023
Footwork, hands, and coordination are all on point. Deceptive leaper that attracts the offensive boards. Look comfortable working drills in stations. During 5 on 5 played in the mid points and at time with her back to the basket. Not afraid of contact but as she adds strength will fish through contact. I’m expecting a breakout year from her at Bishop Kearny.
Morgan Giancaterino 5’9 Guard I90 Elite 2022
Long, smooth guard with high IG. Three level scorer, who made everything look effortless. Her energy was vibrant, and she made it hard for the coaches to miss her at the academy. During drills she kept up will every task at hand, encouraged other players around her
Audrey Hitz 6’00 Forward Syracuse Royals 2023 Hannah Farley 5’10 Guard Clarence Heat 2023 Kyleigh Chapman 5’10 G Syracuse Royals 2024 Venessa Chumacero 5’7 Guard APG 2025 Madison Kent 5’4 Guard Syracuse Royals 2025 Ramune Philippone 5’9 F Syracuse Royals 2025