Yonkers, NY- This past weekend, I got a chance to stop into Younkers PAL to observe Tri-Sate Classic Open run “The Sequel”. The middle school session was broken down into six teams, who played multiple games that led to seedings and playoffs. The championship was won by U.C.L.A. Who was led by sharp-shooting 8th grader Taylor Francis who led all scorers with 18 points. The middle school session hosted some very talented players from NY, NJ, CT, PA and DMV area.
Jordyn Jackson 6’ (G) 2026
National level player with deceiving athletic ability and PG skill set. Can create her looks off the dribble. Made plays in transition and in the half-court. Slasher that looks comfortable playing against older players. Helped lead her team to the championship game.
Skye Hunter 5’8 (G) 2025
A very promising young guard with excellent length and plenty of skill to go along with her size. Hunter is another national level type prospect. She was by far one of the most talented players in the building. The three-level scorer was super-efficient and exhibited the ability to run the team.
Jaylen Manning 5’11 (F) 2025
No one worked for the boards as hard as the Manassas, VA prospect. The tweener forward was relentless on the boards on both ends off the floor (Elevate Elite forward). Not yet a finished product but has some nice tools. Her hard nose style of play was rewarded with many easy baskets and trips to the free-throw line.
Madison Kocis 5’6 (PG) 2026
The pint-size New Jersey Sparks point guard had the best shooting day in the gym. Impressive and promising young point guard. Confident even playing against those many years her senior. Good IQ, takes what the defense gives her and finds gaps in defense to do her scoring from the perimeter.
Priyanka Ponnam 6’2 (W) 2025
One of the two players over 6 foot 2, in the middle school session. The combo forward exhibited the ability to play facing the rim and with her back to the basket. Ponnam is more of a faceup PF who possesses guard like skills.
Veralyn Aviles 5’7 (G) 2025
She was on fire during the run, Aviles is a terrific 3-point sharpshooter. The combo guard scored with ease from the perimeter as well as attacking off the bounce.
Grace Lanier 5’5 (PG) 2025
Athletic PG who makes plays offensively and defensively. Active with the ball in her hands, get past defenders, and can create in traffic. Active rebounder on both ends. Emerging perimeter shot that keeps defenders honest.
Tatianna Collins 5’09 (W) 2025
Physical strong and nice first step. Was at her best challenging defenders off the bounce. Show some ability to finish in traffic through contact. Displayed range to the arc. You can tell she has been in the gym.
Arianna Mervado 5’6 (PG) 2025
Impressive and promising young New York city guard. Confidence, consistency, and ability to see the floor. Made plays both on the break and in the half-court.
Olivia Vukosa 6’3 (F) 2026
May be the player with the most upside at the camp. Solid size and build. Plenty of work ethic. Posted up at times, sealed defender and displayed good footwork. Got out and ran to the floor. Showed some ability to start the break. Has touch out to 8-10 feet, and the ability to finish around the rim.
Ava Fajardo 5’6 PG (2026)
Emma Olausson 5’8 (G)
Taylor Francis 5’7 (G) 2025
Angelina Hodgens 5’6 (PG)
Mia Vernon 5’5 (G) 2025
Callie Mullin 5’6 (PG) 2026
Layla Duggan 5’8 (2025)
Tierra Hendricks 5'8 (2025)