To kick off the winter basketball season, Tribe Athletics launches their first of many Native Jr. Nationals Qualifier Tournament. Divisional champions from the Vegas Nation Showdown will receive a free entry fee towards Native Jr. Nationals this summer. The event was refreshing because there were teams from across the country in attendance. Here are some of the rising stars from day 1:
Cameron Barton 2031 Forward Regulators
Barton was a dominant presence in the paint, showcasing his ability to control the interior on both ends of the court. Defensively, he was a wall under the basket, effectively protecting the paint by altering shots and making it difficult for opponents to score around him. His timing and anticipation made him a reliable rim protector, keeping opposing players on their toes. On the boards, Barton was relentless, securing rebounds on both ends and often turning them into second-chance points.
Izaiah Curley-Hernandez 2031 Point Guard Regulators
Curley-Hernandez stands out by demonstrating advanced leadership and control over the game. His high basketball IQ is evident in every play, as he reads defenses, orchestrates the offense, and consistently makes smart, calculated decisions. As a facilitator, Curley-Hernandez has an exceptional ability to create opportunities for his teammates, threading accurate passes and finding open players with ease. His presence is felt on the defensive end as well, where he applies pressure, disrupts passing lanes, and shows discipline in one-on-one situations. Altogether, Curley-Hernandez’s poise, vision, and all-around playmaking make him an invaluable asset, easily placing him at the top of his class at this event.
Daceton Demarce 2029 Guard Sunset Park
Demarce is a skilled and creative guard who excels at scoring from all three levels. He has a tight handle allowing him to slice and dice through defenses with ease, while his high basketball IQ and natural feel for the game.. With a lightning-quick first step, he’s able to blow past defenders and create scoring opportunities both for himself and his teammates. Demarce stands out as one of the most exciting to watch, combining skill, poise, and dynamic playmaking.
Jace Escalante 2030 Guard Gila River
Escalante showcases strong ball-handling skills, a natural scoring ability, and a high basketball IQ—traits that make him an exciting young prospect. His ball control allows him to navigate defenses with confidence, creating opportunities for himself and his teammates. Escalante knows when to make the right play, positioning him as a smart and efficient scorer. His potential for growth is substantial, and with continued development, he could emerge as a versatile and impactful player.
Jaiden Escalante 2029 Wing Gila River
Escalante stands out with a combination of athleticism, impressive length, and considerable potential. His physical capabilities provide a strong foundation, while his reach and versatility make him an asset on both ends of the court. As he continues to refine his skills and gain experience, Escalante has the makings of a solid prospect with the potential to significantly impact the game.
Donnie Fielding 2031 Forward Regulators
Fielding is a game-changing playmaker whose physicality and skill allow him to control the paint on both ends. His rebounding ability is exceptional; he reads the trajectory of shots well, positioning himself to secure boards on offense and defense alike. By dominating the glass, Fielding not only limits opponents’ second-chance opportunities but also generates extra possessions for his team, often converting them into points.
SJ Gorr 2029 Guard War Party
Gorr ranks among the top three-point shooters, showing both accuracy and confidence from beyond the arc. He’s never hesitant to let it fly if defenders give him any space, punishing opponents who underestimate his shooting range. In the game I scouted, Gorr was on fire, sinking shot after shot and making a real impact from deep. His ability to knock down threes with consistency forces defenders to stretch, creating additional space for his team’s offense.
Trey Snooks 2029 Point Guard Battle Born
Snooks is a standout point guard with an exceptional skill set and a natural feel for the game. He plays with relentless energy, consistently pushing the pace and attacking the basket with confidence. Whether he’s facilitating for his teammates or creating his own scoring opportunities, Snooks combines impressive athleticism with sharp decision-making and a high basketball IQ. His ability to read the floor and control the tempo makes him a dynamic leader on the court.
Kane Westselline 2029 Wing Sunset Park
Westselline has all the physical tools that make him stand out on the court—size, athleticism, and undeniable potential. His physical presence alone makes him a threat, but it’s his upside that truly sets him apart as a promising talent. With continued development and focused training, Westselline could evolve into a dynamic and impactful player, making him a prospect to watch closely in the future.
