Boys Basketball Recruiting: July’s Top Developments

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Spring Basketball Recruiting Shakeup: Four Unranked Players Surge into ESPN 100 Top 50

Archyde.com – July 3, 2024 – The spring basketball circuit has dramatically reshaped the ESPN 100 recruiting rankings, with a wave of previously unranked players making important leaps. Four prospects have exploded onto the scene, earning spots within the top 50, signaling a dynamic shift in the college basketball recruiting landscape.

New Faces in Elite Territory

Bryson Howard (No. 28), Arafane Diane (No. 34), Maximo Adams (no. 44), and Quinn Costello (No.50) represent the most notable risers. These players weren’t on the radar of most major programs entering the spring,but their performances on the grassroots circuit have forced coaches to take notice.

Howard, a scoring machine, showcased his offensive prowess on the EYBL circuit, averaging an extraordinary 20.9 points per game with a remarkable 45.5% accuracy from beyond the arc.Diane, meanwhile, substantially boosted his profile with dominant interior play for Iowa United in the 3SSB circuit, averaging a double-double threat with 16.8 points and 9.4 rebounds.

Adams proved to be a statistical leader, topping the EYBL in rebounding (11.6 per game) and double-doubles (5), while also contributing 21.2 points per game and shooting over 40% from three-point range. Costello, a versatile 6-foot-10 stretch big, emerged as a breakout performer on the Under Armour circuit, consistently knocking down over two three-pointers per game at a 31% clip, adding around 11 points and 6 boards.

beyond the Top 50: Significant Climbs

the movement wasn’t limited to those cracking the top 50. Cameron Williams experienced a meteoric rise, jumping from No. 37 to No. 7. Williams demonstrated a well-rounded game on the Adidas 3SSB circuit, averaging 17.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and a standout 3.1 blocks per game, coupled with a 46.2% three-point shooting percentage.Vaughn Karvala also made a substantial leap,climbing from No. 64 to No. 26, establishing himself as one of the premier shooters in the class, connecting on 28 three-pointers in 11 EYBL games at a 36.4% rate.

Recruiting Heats Up: July Evaluation Periods

With the NCAA college Basketball Academy sidelined this summer, college coaches have limited opportunities to evaluate prospects in person. Two crucial evaluation periods are scheduled for July: July 10-13 and July 17-20.

The Nike Peach Jam in North Augusta, South carolina, during the second live period, is traditionally the premier event, attracting the nation’s top Nike-sponsored teams. Nike will also host its final EYBL session in North Augusta during the first live period, expected to draw the largest concentration of college coaches.

Adidas will host its final 3SSB session in Rock Hill, South Carolina (July 9-13), followed by the 3SSB Championships in California during the second period. Coaches are anticipated to frequently travel between Rock Hill and North Augusta during the first evaluation period.

Under Armour and Puma’s Pro16 Circuit will also be active throughout both periods, taking place in Georgia, Illinois, Virginia, and Texas.Along with these major circuits, coaches will also scout independent events like the Hoop Group in the Northeast and Pangos out west.

The NBA Academy Games in Atlanta during the first period will also be a key scouting destination,having previously showcased future talents like Johnny Furphy,Khaman Maluach,and Dash Daniels.

What to Watch For:

The next few weeks will be critical for recruits and coaches alike. The July evaluation periods will likely solidify rankings and determine which programs are best positioned to land the top talent in the class of 2025. Archyde.com will continue to provide thorough coverage of the recruiting trail throughout the summer.

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How are NIL deals influencing recruits’ college decisions?

The July Recruiting Period: A Hotbed of Activity

July is the month for boys basketball recruiting. The live periods of the NCAA calendar bring coaches to premier AAU tournaments – Peach Jam, the Nike EYBL Finals, and Adidas 3SSB Championships – allowing them to evaluate prospects in person. This year, July 2025 has seen notable commitments, rising stars, and shifting rankings. Here’s a breakdown of the key developments impacting basketball recruiting and college basketball.

Top Commitments & Decisions

Several highly-rated recruits announced their college choices throughout July, substantially impacting team outlooks for the upcoming seasons.

Five-Star Guard, Kai ellis, Commits to Duke: Ellis, consistently ranked among the top 10 players in the 2026 class, chose Duke over Kansas and Kentucky. This commitment solidifies Duke’s position as a basketball powerhouse and provides coach Scheyer with a dynamic playmaker.

Four-Star Forward, Marcus Bell, Pledges to UCLA: Bell’s decision to join the Bruins adds much-needed size and athleticism to their frontcourt. UCLA is actively rebuilding its program, and Bell is a key piece of that puzzle.

Three-Star Center, David Chen, Selects Stanford: Chen’s commitment to Stanford highlights the Cardinal’s focus on academic excellence alongside athletic prowess. He’s a developing big man with a high floor.

Transfer Portal Movement: Beyond high school recruits, the NCAA transfer portal remained active. Notable transfers included point guard Jamal Washington (from VCU to Clemson) and power forward Ben Carter (from Iowa State to Texas A&M). These moves instantly change team dynamics and create new opportunities for playing time.

Standout Performers at Major Tournaments

Beyond commitments, several players significantly boosted their stock with impressive performances during July’s live periods. These performances are crucial for basketball scouting and future rankings.

Peach jam Breakouts:

Jamal “Jet” Johnson (2026, Guard): Averaged 24 points and 6 assists, showcasing elite-level ball-handling and shooting. Receiving increased interest from Villanova and Michigan.

Isaiah “Zeke” williams (2027, Forward): A dominant force inside, averaging a double-double. Considered a rising star in the 2027 class.

Nike EYBL Finals Standouts:

Anthony “AJ” Harris (2026, guard): continued to impress with his scoring ability and defensive intensity.

Cameron “Cam” Barnes (2027,Wing): Showcased a versatile skillset,excelling as a scorer,rebounder,and passer.

Adidas 3SSB Championship Performers:

DeShawn “DJ” Jackson (2026, Guard): A floor general with remarkable court vision and passing skills.

Kevin “Kev” Miller (2027, Center): A shot-blocking presence and developing offensive threat.

Shifting Rankings & Recruiting Boards

July’s performances lead to adjustments in several major recruiting rankings (ESPN, 247Sports, Rivals).

Kai Ellis’s Commitment Impacts Rankings: Ellis’s decision to commit to Duke has reshuffled the top of the 2026 rankings, creating opportunities for other prospects to climb.

Rising Stars: Players like Jamal Johnson and Isaiah Williams saw significant jumps in their rankings due to their strong tournament performances.

Recruiting Board Adjustments: Coaches are constantly updating their recruiting boards based on commitments, player growth, and tournament evaluations. Programs that missed out on top targets are now focusing on alternative options. High school basketball coaches are also playing a key role in identifying and developing talent.

The Impact of NIL & the Transfer Portal on Recruiting

name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and the transfer portal continue to reshape the landscape of college basketball recruiting.

NIL as a Factor: While direct “pay-for-play” is prohibited, NIL opportunities are undoubtedly influencing recruits’ decisions. programs with strong NIL collectives are gaining a competitive advantage.

Portal’s Influence: The transfer portal allows players to quickly find