Hillcrest Prep stands as one of the pioneering prep basketball powerhouses on the West Coast. Over the years, the Bruins have established a proven track record of developing elite talent, producing a long list of athletes who have gone on to compete at every level—from NCAA Division II and Division I programs to professional leagues overseas and the NBA. Under the leadership of Director Nick Weaver and his dedicated staff, the program continues to innovate and raise the bar. This season, the Bruins have taken their recruiting strategy to the next level, assembling a roster that reaches far beyond U.S. borders and showcases top international talent, solidifying their reputation as a global destination for high-level basketball development.

In recent times, the United States has experienced heightened division stemming from differences in political views and social perspectives. In the midst of this tension, Director Nick Weaver has chosen to use Hillcrest Prep as more than just a basketball program—it has become a platform for unity and shared purpose. Through the game, Weaver and his staff are fostering an environment where athletes from around the globe can come together, bridging cultural, linguistic, and ethnic differences to work toward a common goal.

Watching this group compete is more than just witnessing basketball—it’s witnessing connection. Players from different countries, backgrounds, and walks of life unite on the court, moving as one cohesive unit. The world got its first glimpse of this diverse and dynamic roster at the Tremendous 24 Team Showcase, hosted by GC3 Hoops, where the Bruins were led by Head Coach Marques Gantt. It was a powerful reminder that the game of basketball can be a universal language—one that brings people together when the world feels divided.

Here are the prospects that stood out at the Tremendous 24: 

Parker Creech 6’2 2026 Guard

Creech is a physically gifted guard who plays with intensity and a relentless edge. He carries himself with a chip on his shoulder, bringing toughness and energy that set the tone on both ends of the floor. Offensively, Creech is an elite three-level scorer—able to attack the basket with power, rise up in the midrange, and knock down perimeter shots with confidence. His blend of strength, skill, and competitiveness makes him a tough matchup and a consistent offensive threat. With his physical tools and scoring versatility, Creech projects as a strong mid-major prospect with the potential to make an immediate impact at the next level.

Saleem Gakiza 6’6 2026 Wing

Gakiza is a dynamic and versatile prospect with the complete package on both ends of the floor. Offensively, he’s a true three-level scorer—comfortable finishing at the rim through contact, pulling up in the midrange, and stretching the floor with a confident perimeter shot. What separates Gakiza is his elite defensive versatility: he possesses the strength, athleticism, and instincts to guard all five positions effectively, switching seamlessly on the perimeter while maintaining his position inside. His strong frame and explosive athleticism give him a physical edge, allowing him to dictate matchups. A surefire Division I prospect, Gakiza projects as an impact player who can excel in multiple roles at the next level.

Caden Jackson 6’3 2027 Guard

Jackson is an explosive, high-level athlete with a commanding on-court presence and the mindset of an alpha competitor. He consistently impacts the game on both ends with his dynamic playmaking ability—whether it’s attacking the rim with force, creating for others, or making momentum-shifting plays in transition. His first step and burst separate him from defenders, while his toughness and energy set the tone for his team. A surefire Division I prospect, Jackson has the tools to be an immediate impact player at the next level, capable of elevating those around him and taking over games when needed.

Jao Panzo 6’9 2026 Forward

Panzo is a powerful downhill forward who thrives in the paint on both ends of the floor. He consistently controls the glass with a strong motor and physical presence, securing rebounds in traffic and initiating transition opportunities. Offensively, he finishes efficiently around the rim, using his strength and touch to convert through contact. Defensively, Panzo provides a reliable interior anchor—protecting the paint, altering shots, and setting a physical tone. His toughness, rebounding ability, and interior dominance make him a highly valuable prospect with the tools to excel as a high-major power forward at the next level.

Daniel Simon 6’11 2026 Forward
Simon is a high-major post prospect who stands out with his elite athleticism and exceptional rim protection. Explosive off the floor, he’s a constant threat to block or alter shots, anchoring the defense with his timing and vertical presence. Offensively, Simon runs the floor with purpose, finishes strong around the basket, and plays well above the rim. His combination of length, mobility, and defensive instincts makes him a disruptive force inside, while his athletic tools give him tremendous upside at the next level. Simon projects as a difference-maker in the paint for a high-major program.

Simon Tekeste 6’10 2026 Wing

Tekeste is an intriguing stretch-four prospect with a versatile modern skill set. He’s highly effective at spacing the floor, knocking down perimeter shots with confidence and a smooth shooting stroke. His ability to step out and hit the three forces defenses to extend, creating matchup problems and opening driving lanes for teammates. Defensively, Tekeste brings valuable versatility—he can hold his own in the post while also sliding his feet to contain guards on the perimeter. His combination of floor spacing, defensive versatility, and feel for the game makes him a strong prospect with upside at the next level.

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