From the jump, the North Pole Hoops Grade 7 Showcase felt less like a typical youth event and more like an early glimpse into Canada’s basketball future. What truly set the weekend apart was the spirit driving the competition. Each game delivered hustle, excitement, and a genuine love for the sport—qualities that make this age group so compelling to watch. These young athletes weren’t simply participating; they were competing with purpose, effort, and an undeniable dawg mentality. As we break down the top five performers in each statistical category, we’re highlighting the standout players who rose to the moment, made a meaningful impact, and showed they’re rapidly emerging within the Northpole Hoops ecosystem.

RISING FUTURES: The Standout Performers of the Northpole Hoops Grade

7 Showcase 2025/2026 SEASON

CATEGORY	LEADER	STAT
POINTS PER GAME	Jordan Frimpong	16.8 PPG
	Joshua Noble	14.5 PPG
	Maiko Kazibwe	13.6 PPG
	Oliver Jeglic	11.0 PPG
	Logan Hunt	10.8 PPG
REBOUNDS PER GAME	Maiko Kazibwe	9.0 RPG
	Esteban Serpa Lucic	6.5 RPG
	Luis Akpobaro	5.3 RPG
	Oliver Jeglic	5.0 RPG
	Savoy Martin	5.0 RPG
ASSISTS PER GAME	Jordan Frimpong	3.3 APG
	Jackson Shepley	2.5 APG
	Lyric Smith	2.0 APG
	Daniel Petan	2.0 APG
	Kai Henry-Hayden	2.0 APG
STEALS PER GAME	Jordan Frimpong	3.8 SPG
	Kai Henry-Hayden	3.5 SPG
	Mekhi James	2.5 SPG
	Prasan Surya	2.0 SPG
	Daniel Petan	2.0 SPG
BLOCKS PER GAME	Prasan Surya	1.5 BPG
	Kitan Ajiboye	1.5 BPG
	Xordon Bennett	1.4 BPG
	Isak Terzic	1.0 BPG
	Daniel Petan	1.0 BPG
3 POINTS MADE (TOTAL)	Jahan Klair	11 3PM
	Adam Calabro	9 3PM
	Jordan Frimpong	8 3PM
	Bryson Ngameni	8 3PM
	Kitan Ajiboye	8 3PM

 

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POINTS PER GAME
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1. Jordan Frimpong – 16.8 PPG (Ottawa Elite
   Jordan established himself as one of the most dynamic scorers in the division, consistently generating offense through a blend of pace, poise, and skill versatility. His ability to get downhill forced defensive rotations that few guards could handle, and once he found rhythm, he was nearly impossible to keep out of the paint. Jordan showed strong command as a three-level scoring threat, using craft and balance to finish in traffic while also hitting timely shots that elevated Ottawa Elite’s offensive flow.

Beyond the box score, Jordan’s scoring impact came from his ability to control tempo. He recognized when to push, when to slow down, and when to exploit mismatches. His decision-making tied directly into the efficiency of his scoring, allowing him to stay productive even against structured defensive schemes. Jordan’s scoring numbers weren’t inflated—they were a product of consistent reads and a natural understanding of how to create advantages.

2. Joshua Noble – 14.5 PPG (M&R Basketball)
   Joshua’s scoring output came through a strong mix of physicality and touch, establishing him as one of the premier offensive wings in the bracket. He excelled at using his frame to initiate contact and finish through it, often creating separation against defenders who couldn’t match his blend of strength and footwork. Joshua consistently attacked closeouts and leveraged his size to get to comfortable mid-range areas where he showcased smooth mechanics.

His scoring was also a reflection of his instincts without the ball. Joshua moved well within the flow of M&R’s offense, cutting with timing and spotting up effectively to stretch the floor. He demonstrated an ability to read the game as possessions developed, putting himself in positions where he could capitalize without needing the ball to dominate. His efficiency stemmed from smart shot selection and the maturity to take what defenses gave him.

3. Maiko Kazibwe – 13.6 PPG (Kings Court Basketball)
   Maiko brought an inside-outside scoring threat that consistently forced opponents into difficult defensive decisions. He used his athleticism to attack gaps in the defense and finish plays above or around rim protectors while showing balance and coordination that allowed him to convert tough attempts. His ability to score in transition added another layer to his production, as Maiko ran the floor hard and converted high-percentage opportunities.

In the half-court, Maiko showcased promising touch from mid-range and an emerging ability to handle the ball against pressure. He didn’t rely solely on physical advantages; instead, he demonstrated patience and control, allowing plays to develop. His scoring impact often came at moments when Kings Court needed a spark, proving his value as a reliable offensive option with strong long-term upside.

4. Oliver Jeglic – 11.0 PPG (Ottawa Elite)
   Oliver’s scoring contributions were rooted in efficiency and understanding of his role within a balanced Ottawa Elite roster. He consistently found scoring windows through smart positioning and timely cuts, using awareness to generate easy opportunities. Oliver displayed strong finishing ability around the rim and showed composure when operating in tight spaces, converting at a high rate even with defenders rotating toward him.

His perimeter confidence also began to shine through, spacing the floor and keeping defenses honest. Oliver played with a steady approach, rarely forcing offense and instead capitalizing when the ball swung his direction. His scoring wasn’t volume-driven; it was grounded in consistency and a high IQ approach that allowed him to stay productive without needing heavy touches.

5. Logan Hunt – 11.0 PPG (Barrie Buccaneers)
   Logan showed he could put points on the board through a mix of motor, toughness, and offensive feel. As a finisher, he consistently attacked gaps and used his strength to shield defenders, converting through contact with impressive regularity. Logan thrived in transition, running wide lanes and turning defensive stops into immediate scoring chances for Barrie.

In half-court play, Logan’s impact came from his versatility. He spaced the floor when needed but also worked well around the mid-post, using footwork and patience to create clean looks. His determination to attack mismatches showed confidence, and his willingness to take and make timely shots helped stabilize Barrie’s offense during stretches when scoring was hard to come by.

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REBOUNDS PER GAME
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1. Maiko Kazibwe – 9.0 RPG (Kings Court Basketball)
   Maiko’s presence on the glass was dominant, anchored by strong anticipation and a natural ability to track the ball off the rim. His vertical pop allowed him to secure rebounds in traffic, and he frequently outworked bigger players through sheer determination. Maiko’s ability to rebound outside his area was especially notable, stepping in to secure possessions that many players would not contest.

Offensively, his rebounding translated into second-chance scoring opportunities that swung momentum for Kings Court. His instincts to crash the glass at the right times created pressure on opposing frontcourts, forcing them to allocate extra bodies to box him out. This opened up spacing for teammates and showcased Maiko’s ability to impact the game without needing plays called for him.

2. Esteban Serpa Lucic – 6.5 RPG (YvY Elite)
   Esteban’s rebounding success came through positioning and discipline. He consistently established early inside leverage, allowing himself to secure boards before opponents could contest. His timing was excellent, and he showed a clear understanding of how to track both misses and the tendencies of shooters. Esteban’s wide base and stability made him extremely reliable on defensive rebounds, helping YvY Elite control tempo.

On the offensive end, Esteban created value through sustained effort on the glass. He pursued rebounds with intent, turning potential 50-50 balls into secure possessions. His ability to generate extra chances energized his team and demonstrated his commitment to doing the little things that contribute to winning basketball.

3. Luis Akpobaro – 5.3 RPG (Barrie Buccaneers)
   Luis rebounded with physicality and toughness, embracing contact as he battled for positioning. His strength allowed him to hold ground against bigger opponents, while his motor ensured he stayed active throughout possessions. Luis demonstrated a willingness to challenge every missed shot, ensuring the Buccaneers rarely gave up uncontested boards.

His offensive rebounding played a significant role in sustaining possessions for Barrie. Luis created scoring opportunities by reacting quickly to rebounds that dropped into congested areas, converting putbacks or resetting the offense. His energy on the glass set the tone for his team, making him a consistent factor in interior battles.

4. Oliver Jeglic – 5.0 RPG (Ottawa Elite)
   Oliver’s rebounding reflected his feel for the game and commitment to playing within team structure. He read misses well and positioned himself early, avoiding unnecessary contact by simply being in the right place at the right time. Oliver frequently secured rebounds that prevented potential second-chance points for opponents, showing maturity in defensive responsibilities.

On offense, Oliver contributed through opportunistic boards that helped maintain momentum. He showed soft hands and quick reactions, securing rebounds even when he wasn’t the initial favourite to grab them. His balance of technique and effort made his rebounding contributions dependable and substantial for Ottawa Elite.

5. Savoy Martin – 5.0 RPG (Mississauga Monarchs)
   Savoy brought length, timing, and athleticism to the glass, using his frame effectively to challenge rebounds and extend possessions. He covered ground well, often stepping in from the weak side to scoop up misses that slipped between larger players. Savoy’s agility allowed him to rebound above defenders, turning defensive stands into transition opportunities.

On the offensive end, Savoy displayed strong instincts for rebounding in traffic. His quick second jumps allowed him to recover and contest loose balls, leading to extra scoring chances for the Monarchs. His consistency in this category demonstrated both commitment and an early understanding of how to impact the game through effort-based plays.

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ASSISTS PER GAME
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1. Jordan Frimpong – 3.3 APG (Ottawa Elite)
   Jordan’s playmaking ability mirrored the same command he showed as a scorer. He consistently drew multiple defenders and read rotations with sharp timing, delivering passes that put teammates in ideal scoring positions. His vision in the open floor was exceptional, pushing pace and generating transition advantages that Ottawa Elite capitalized on throughout the event.

In the half-court, Jordan excelled with ball screens, manipulating defenders and using pace changes to create passing windows. His ability to make advanced reads early in possessions made him a true creator, elevating the efficiency of the entire offense. Jordan’s passing wasn’t just functional—it drove team rhythm and shaped the identity of the lineup.

2. Jackson Shepley – 2.5 APG (YvY Elite)
   Jackson orchestrated YvY Elite’s offense with poise, demonstrating strong awareness of personnel and spacing. He made timely decisions, rarely over-dribbling and instead relying on quick, accurate passes that kept defenders moving. Jackson excelled at initiating sets and delivering the ball precisely where teammates needed it to score.

His ability to maintain composure under pressure was equally impressive. Jackson handled traps and aggressive defensive schemes with confidence, using ball fakes and pace control to open lanes. His pass-first mindset anchored YvY Elite’s offensive structure and reinforced his value as a true floor general.

3. Lyric Smith – 2.0 APG (Kings Court Basketball)
   Lyric showed natural instinct as a connector, making reads that advanced the offense without flashiness. His passing came from understanding timing and recognizing defensive shifts, allowing him to deliver the ball to open teammates in high-value spots. Lyric excelled at facilitating within motion offense, where his decisions helped maintain team flow.

In transition, Lyric demonstrated a willingness to push pace while still preserving control. He identified opportunities early and rewarded teammates who ran the floor, helping Kings Court create quick-strike scoring. Lyric’s assists were a reflection of both IQ and unselfishness, traits that translate well to higher levels of playmaking.

4. Daniel Petan – 2.0 APG (M&R Basketball)
   Daniel offered balanced playmaking, using his dribble penetration to collapse defenses and generate open looks. His ability to attack with purpose forced rotations, opening passing angles that he used effectively. Daniel’s reads were quick, showing confidence in identifying the right option and delivering clean, timely passes.

His half-court composure stood out, particularly in how he managed ball pressure. Daniel utilized counters and controlled pace, ensuring possessions didn’t stall. His assists consistently contributed to maintaining offensive rhythm, proving his value as a stabilizing presence for M&R.

5. Kai Henry-Hayden – 2.0 APG (YvY Elite)
   Kai brought a dynamic dimension to YvY Elite’s ball movement, showcasing creativity and fearlessness. He attacked with strong intent, drawing defenders and making proactive passes that led directly to scoring. His ability to handle pressure while still looking to facilitate made him a reliable secondary playmaker.

Kai’s understanding of spacing allowed him to anticipate openings before they fully developed. His passes were often delivered in stride, helping teammates finish with efficiency. His playmaking added versatility to the offense, revealing a strong foundation for continued growth as a distributor.

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STEALS PER GAME
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1. Jordan Frimpong – 3.8 SPG (Ottawa Elite)
   Jordan’s defensive instincts were elite, allowing him to disrupt plays before opponents even recognized where pressure was coming from. His anticipation in passing lanes was exceptional, as he routinely jumped routes with perfect timing. Jordan’s footwork and quick hands made him a constant threat to turn defense into instant offense.

In one-on-one settings, Jordan applied active pressure without fouling, using his lateral quickness to force errors. His steals weren’t accidental—they were a reflection of his understanding of angles, timing, and how to manipulate ball-handlers. Jordan’s defensive presence changed the flow of games and served as a real separator among top guards.

2. Kai Henry-Hayden – 3.5 SPG (YvY Elite)
   Kai made a significant impact defensively by using relentless energy and intensity to pressure ball-handlers. He played with a disruptive edge, staying low and reading dribbles effectively to poke balls loose. His commitment to chasing plays and contesting every touch made him one of the most frustrating defenders for opponents to deal with.

Off the ball, Kai excelled at rotating early and recognizing when to help. His ability to track skip passes and intercept poorly timed swing passes showcased strong awareness. His steal numbers reflected effort, IQ, and consistent engagement on every possession.

3. Mekhi James – 2.5 SPG (M&R Basketball)
   Mekhi brought physicality and toughness to perimeter defense, using his strength to disrupt ball-handlers and force difficult decisions. He excelled in applying chest-to-chest pressure while maintaining control, leading to turnovers created through both technique and intensity. Mekhi’s ability to anticipate hesitation dribbles and attack them added to his defensive profile.

Off-ball, Mekhi played smart positional defense, staying alert and reacting quickly to late rotations. His ability to close gaps and challenge passing windows generated consistent deflections and steals. His defensive impact was a major part of M&R’s identity throughout the event.

4. Prasan Surya – 2.0 SPG (M&R Basketball)
   Prasan displayed strong timing when attacking passing lanes and closing down ball-handlers. His length helped him disrupt plays, allowing him to contest dribbles and push opponents into uncomfortable situations. His anticipation often forced turnovers that led to transition scoring.

Prasan’s commitment to defensive fundamentals also separated him. He communicated well, rotated with discipline, and stayed active without gambling excessively. His ability to blend energy with structure made his defensive presence both reliable and impactful.

5. Daniel Petan – 2.0 SPG (M&R Basketball)
   Daniel’s defensive production came through effort and strong engagement with opposing guards. He tracked dribble penetration effectively, using his hands to strip the ball or disrupt rhythm. Daniel’s timing in reaching for steals without fouling reflected advanced discipline for his age.

In off-ball situations, Daniel demonstrated awareness of spacing and anticipation of cross-court passes. His knack for stepping into lanes at the right moment created turnovers that shifted momentum. His defensive contributions added an extra layer to his all-around game.

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BLOCKS PER GAME
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1. Prasan Surya – 1.5 BPG (M&R Basketball)
   Prasan established himself as one of the premier rim protectors with excellent timing and vertical discipline. His ability to rise straight up and meet shots at their apex allowed him to block attempts cleanly without fouling. Prasan’s presence alone deterred drives, forcing opponents to reconsider attacking the paint.

He excelled in help-side defense, rotating early and reading offensive actions as they developed. His shot-blocking came not just from athleticism, but from understanding positioning and anticipating shot attempts. Prasan’s ability to anchor the paint made him a game-changing interior defender.

2. Kitan Ajiboye – 1.5 BPG (Barrie Buccaneers)
   Kitan brought explosiveness and length to the defensive interior, using his physical tools to impact shots both at the rim and in mid-range pull-ups. His timing off two feet allowed him to contest even well-angled attempts. Kitan’s mobility enabled him to recover quickly, blocking shots from trailing positions.

His defensive instincts extended beyond the paint. Kitan closed out on shooters with discipline and used his length to alter jumpers. His presence forced opponents to adjust offensive strategies, showcasing how valuable true rim deterrence can be.

3. Xordon Bennett – 1.4 BPG (Kings Court Basketball)
   Xordon excelled in shot prevention through discipline and timing. He rarely bit on fakes and maintained balance, allowing him to stay in plays and contest effectively. His ability to stay vertical and use length to disrupt shots made him an anchor around the rim.

His mobility allowed him to defend ball screens and recover to block or alter shots. Xordon’s consistency in tracking drivers and rotating on time created a strong defensive backbone for Kings Court.

4. Isak Terzic – 1.0 BPG (MBA Basketball)
   Isak’s shot-blocking impact stemmed from strong anticipation and a willingness to challenge attempts without hesitation. He used positioning to funnel ball-handlers into areas where he could contest effectively. His length and timing made him a reliable last line of defense.

He also proved effective at disrupting floaters and mid-range attempts, showcasing versatility in his contests. Isak’s defensive energy set the tone for MBA’s interior presence throughout the event.

5. Daniel Petan – 1.0 BPG (M&R Basketball)
   Daniel brought high activity to the defensive end, challenging shots consistently and using his timing to block attempts from both guards and forwards. His athleticism allowed him to rise quickly and affect plays before shooters reached comfort points.

His commitment to rotating and staying engaged made him a constant threat around the basket. Daniel’s shot-blocking added another dimension to his well-rounded two-way impact.

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3-POINTERS MADE (TOTAL)
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Jahan Klair – 11 3PM (Kings Court Basketball

1. Jahan emerged as the most reliable perimeter shooter in the event, consistently knocking down threes with fluid mechanics and deep range. His ability to space the floor opened driving lanes for teammates and forced defensive adjustments. Jahan’s release was quick and efficient, allowing him to capitalize on even small pockets of space.

Off the catch, Jahan was automatic, but he also displayed comfort shooting off movement. His confidence radiated through each attempt, and opponents struggled to close out with enough urgency to disrupt his rhythm. His shooting contributions were essential to Kings Court’s spacing and offensive production.

2. Adam Calabro – 9 3PM (RWI)
   Adam showcased pure shooting touch with smooth form and consistent footwork. He excelled at relocating to find open windows, demonstrating an understanding of how to keep defenders chasing. His ability to stretch the floor added a critical scoring element for RWI.

Adam’s willingness to take big shots in key moments displayed confidence and trust from his teammates. His shooting mechanics remained steady even under pressure, highlighting his potential as a high-level perimeter threat.

3. Jordan Frimpong – 8 3PM (Ottawa Elite)
   Jordan added perimeter shooting to his already dynamic offensive arsenal, knocking down threes with confidence and rhythm. His ability to hit shots off the dribble made him even harder to guard, as defenders had to respect the pull-up.

He also demonstrated strong discipline in shot selection, taking threes that fit within team flow rather than forcing attempts. Jordan’s ability to stretch the floor rounded out his scoring profile and confirmed his status as one of the most complete offensive players in the event.

4. Bryson Ngameni – 8 3PM (Ottawa Elite)
   Bryson provided steady perimeter offense, using clean mechanics and a smooth release to convert from beyond the arc. He spaced the floor effectively and punished defenders who helped off too far. Bryson’s ability to catch and shoot seamlessly kept Ottawa’s offense balanced.

His feel for relocating around the arc showed strong understanding of spacing. Bryson’s consistent shooting production made him a dependable option and elevated the team’s overall perimeter threat.

5. Kitan Ajiboye – 8 3PM (Barrie Buccaneers)
   Kitan showcased unique versatility by providing both rim protection and perimeter shooting. His three-point touch added a dynamic element to Barrie’s offense, stretching defenses and creating matchup issues. Kitan’s form was repeatable and confident, allowing him to convert at a high clip.

His ability to step into shots without hesitation demonstrated poise and trust in his preparation. Kitan’s perimeter production complemented his interior presence, making him one of the more well-rounded forwards in the event.

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The Northpole Hoops Grade 7 Showcase is proving why it’s one of the most entertaining youth events in the country, and this year’s talent made that clearer than ever. The skill, effort, and instincts on display revealed a class loaded with potential and hungry for more. From dynamic scorers to high-IQ playmakers and impact defenders, each athlete demonstrated tools that project well beyond a single event.

As they continue to grow, sharpen their craft, and embrace bigger stages, this group stands out as a promising wave of future Canadian talent. This is exactly what the Northpole Hoops ecosystem is built on—identifying and developing the next generation—and this Grade 7 class has already shown they’re more than ready for that path.