As another high school basketball season wraps up, New Jersey became the battleground for eight of the country’s best teams, each vying for the prestigious title at The Throne National Championship Tournament. With several top 20 teams present, individual talent was on full display as these teams competed fiercely for victory.
Nate Ament 6’9", 185 lbs, Small Forward – Highland High School (Undecided)
Standing tall at 6’9" and armed with a 6’11" wingspan, Nate Ament has the makings of a unique player in the 2025 recruiting class. Even as the top-ranked uncommitted senior, he carries a versatile skill set that allows him to handle the ball with ease. Despite Highland’s early exit at the hands of the eventual champions, Ament made the most of his single outing. He dazzled with 10 boards and 23 points, though his shooting was a bit off, hitting just 6 of his 17 attempts. Potential? Absolutely. He’s projected to make waves in whichever college program he chooses, likely eyeing a one-and-done career.
Kiyan Anthony 6’5", 185 lbs, Shooting Guard – Long Island Lutheran High School (Syracuse)
Kiyan Anthony, son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, proved his mettle as a top 40 recruit nationally. His size and skill on the court were game-changers, leading Long Island Lutheran to victory over Allen High School in the finals. Throughout the tournament, Kiyan was pivotal, averaging 17.6 points, along with three boards and two assists per game. Capping off his campaign, he shined in the championship bout, netting 25 points and bagging five rebounds, while knocking down nine of his 15 shots — efforts that earned him the well-deserved tournament MVP honors.
Brayden Burries 6’4", 185 lbs, Point Guard – Eleanor Roosevelt High School (Undecided)
A year removed from steering his team to a thrilling championship, Brayden Burries faced heartache with a first-round loss to New Jersey’s Cardinals. Regardless, his status as the #2 point guard and top-tier uncommitted senior was unblemished. Brayden’s tenacity and scoring prowess were evident as he notched the highest point total in the first round, racking up 32 points alongside four assists. Not to be overshadowed was his remarkable effort on the glass, securing a whopping 19 rebounds, a testament to his unyielding drive and fire on the court.
Caleb Holt 6’5", 200 lbs, Small Forward – Grayson High School (Undecided)
Heading into the tournament as the top-rated player from the 2026 class, Caleb Holt underscored his dual-threat capabilities despite his team’s struggles. Falling behind early, Holt spearheaded a comeback to tie the game at 60-60, just as cramps set in during a critical stretch. His resilience shone through as he posted 27 points on 18 shots, his energy and passion leaving a lasting impression. With another high school year still ahead, the tenacious Holt is poised to chase the top spot in his class rankings.
Kingston Flemings 6’2", 169 lbs, Point Guard – Brennan High School (Committed to Houston)
In a display of leadership and skill, Kingston Flemings propelled his team to the second round before they succumbed to the eventual champions. Over two games, he averaged 21.5 points, 6.5 assists, and 7.5 rebounds. His crowning moment was a near triple-double performance in round one, scoring 33 points, snatching 13 rebounds, and dishing out nine assists. Flemings’ speed and precision navigating pick-and-roll situations were instrumental, showcasing his promising future with Kelvin Sampson at Houston.
Kayden Mingo 6’2", 178 lbs, Point Guard – Long Island Lutheran High School (Committed to Penn State)
Ranked 40th in his class and 8th among point guards, Kayden Mingo initially stumbled, scoring just three points in game one. However, he rebounded spectacularly in subsequent games, becoming a vital cog in Long Island Lutheran’s championship win. By tournament’s end, Mingo averaged 11.6 points, 4.6 assists, and 7.3 rebounds, thanks to his agility and court smarts. His ability to dominate rebounds from the guard position bodes well for his upcoming tenure at Penn State, where he’s expected to make an immediate splash.
Latrell Almond 6’8", 210 lbs, Center – John Marshall High School (Undecided)
As a standout in the 2026 class, Latrell Almond has significantly contributed to John Marshall High’s three consecutive Virginia state titles. Participating in just one game at The Throne, he impressed with 12 points and 10 boards on 10 attempts, alongside seven steals and five blocks—an embodiment of his relentless engine. With his final high school year yet to unfold, Almond is on track to elevate his game and lead his team to glory once again.
Dylan Mingo 6’5", 185 lbs, Point Guard – Long Island Lutheran High School (Undecided)
Ranked 11th in the 2026 class, Dylan Mingo, alongside his brother and Kiyan Anthony, was instrumental for Long Island Lutheran. Averaging 15 points, six rebounds, and three assists, Dylan shot 56.2% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc. His standout moment came in game one, scoring 18 points and securing five rebounds, aiding in a narrow victory. Next season, as the primary playmaker, Dylan will have the chance to further hone his skills, potentially rising further up the ranks.
Jake Wilkins 6’9", 185 lbs, Small Forward – Grayson High School (Committed to Georgia)
At The Throne, Jake Wilkins left a mark despite his team exiting in the first round. His athletic prowess was undeniable, thrilling the crowd with two standout dunks, including a breathtaking baseline lob. Over his high school career, his shooting and ability to create scoring chances improved significantly. Wilkins ended his game with 13 points and six rebounds on 11 attempts. His elite athleticism, paired with added strength, positions him as a distinct talent ready to tackle the next level.
