Hillcrest Prep has become one of the premier destinations for elite basketball talent from around the globe, and few players embodied that international impact this season more than Joao “JP” Panzo.
The 6-foot-9, 250-pound forward from Portugal helped lead the Bruins to an outstanding 31-4 record, powering Hillcrest through one of the toughest schedules in prep basketball while collecting several marquee victories throughout the season. Panzo’s combination of size, skill, toughness, and basketball IQ made him one of the most difficult matchup problems in the country.
Now, after a dominant senior campaign, Panzo has officially signed with Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and is set to continue his career at the Division I level.
A member of Portugal’s national team program, Panzo arrived in Arizona with an impressive international résumé and quickly established himself as one of the most productive frontcourt players in the prep ranks. His ability to impact every aspect of the game was evident throughout the season.
2025-26 Season Statistics
- 17.4 Points Per Game
- 10.1 Rebounds Per Game
- 4.7 Assists Per Game
- 1.2 Blocks Per Game
Shooting Percentages
- 52.7% Field Goals
- 38.9% Three-Point Shooting
- 81.1% Free Throw Shooting
For a player of his size, Panzo’s skill set is remarkably versatile. While many big men dominate exclusively around the basket, JP can stretch defenses with his perimeter shooting, facilitate offense as a passer, and create opportunities for teammates. His nearly five assists per game demonstrate a high-level feel for the game rarely seen in players his size.
What truly separates Panzo, however, is his physical presence. At 6-foot-9 and 250 pounds, he is an absolute force in the paint. He controls the glass on both ends of the floor, finishes through contact, and consistently establishes deep post position. Yet despite his power, he possesses the touch and shooting ability to keep defenders honest from beyond the arc.
GC3 Hoops previously evaluated Panzo as a powerful interior presence capable of controlling the paint while also impacting the game with his rebounding, physicality, and versatility. His combination of strength, skill, and motor made him one of the most intriguing frontcourt prospects in the prep landscape.
VMI is adding a player who should make an immediate impact. Panzo’s maturity, international experience, and winning background at Hillcrest Prep provide a strong foundation for success at the Division I level. His ability to score inside and out, rebound at a high level, and facilitate offense gives the Keydets a versatile frontcourt weapon capable of contributing in multiple ways.
As Hillcrest Prep continues its tradition of developing college-level talent, Joao Panzo’s journey from Portugal to Arizona and now to Division I basketball serves as another example of the program’s global reach and player development success.
The future is bright for JP, and GC3 Hoops will be following his career closely as he begins the next chapter at VMI.
Congratulations to Joao Panzo and his family on this well-deserved accomplishment.
