COLORADO SPRINGS, CO – The intensity ramped up on Saturday as the USA Basketball U16 Trials narrowed down the field to the final 22 players. With a high-stakes morning session featuring drive-and-kick shooting and three rounds of five-on-five scrimmages, players were not only competing but auditioning for their spot on the national stage.
Before the session, all participants were instructed to pack their belongings—only the 22 finalists would be invited back for Sunday’s two sessions and the final roster announcement. The stakes were high, and the pressure was on.
Saturday Morning Standouts
A few players made particularly strong cases for themselves:
- Angelyn Almonte (2029, NJ) – Arguably the most exciting long-term prospect in camp, Almonte’s fearless and unorthodox style was matched by impressive production. Her potential is through the roof.
- Jordyn Haywood (2028, MO) – A defensive disruptor with great length and instincts, Haywood also impressed offensively with her ability to finish with either hand and play within the system.
- Charis Rainey (2028, CA) – Knocked down shots consistently and showed high-level athleticism. While she didn’t make the final 22, she certainly made her mark.
- Tatianna Griffin (2028, CA) – A true scorer, Griffin’s mid-range game was elite. While the three-point shot wasn’t falling, her ability to create and convert impressed both coaches and scouts alike.
- Ella Peper (2028, MA) – Arguably the most improved from Friday to Saturday. Peper hit threes in live play, handled the ball well, and stepped into a leadership role for her five-on-five unit.
- Arianna Robinson (2028, TX) – After a quieter Friday, Robinson bounced back by showcasing her physicality, pull-up game, and explosiveness. A high-level prospect whose game translates well to the next level.
Projected Locks for the Final Roster
Several players appear to have solidified their status:
- Caroline Bradley (2027, LA) – A physical, back-to-the-basket post who plays fundamentally sound basketball and anchors the paint with her presence.
- Tatianna Griffin (2028, CA) – Her offensive arsenal and ability to get downhill make her a key piece in the backcourt.
- Chloe Johnson (2028, MN) – Likely shifting off the ball to maximize her scoring ability. Her shooting will be essential in this system.
- Olivia Jones (2026, NY) – The elder stateswoman of the group brings maturity, poise, and leadership to a young backcourt.
- Eve Long (2027, KS) – A dynamic defender in the frontcourt with elite athleticism and surprising playmaking ability.
- Micah Ojo (2028, VA) – In contention for best overall player. Her three-point shooting and defensive playmaking stood out on Saturday.
- Morghan Reckley (2028, GA) – The lead point guard in this group, Reckley’s creativity and playmaking ability are unmatched. She’ll need to stay efficient to avoid the volume-shooter label.
- Nation Williams (2027, NV) – One of the most powerful and efficient paint scorers in the event. Dominates around the rim and moves well in transition.
- Ivanna Wilson Manyacka (2027, VA) – A versatile, high-upside wing who continues to show patience and discipline while letting the game come to her.
Roster Composition Breakdown (So Far)
- 2 Point Guards
- 3 Wings
- 3 Posts
That leaves likely one more spot in each category. The following players remain firmly in the mix:
Remaining Contenders
- Jazman Bailey (2027, TX) – Explosive point guard who had a strong showing. If the team adds another true PG, she’s a top choice.
- Celsy Colombo (2027, NY) – A steady forward who has held her own. Could claim the final frontcourt spot over a competitive group.
- Amen Cook (2028, CA) – Athletic wing with energy and defensive versatility. Could slot in if the coaching staff seeks more physicality on the perimeter.
- Harper Dunn (2027, NM) – Highly skilled and known nationally, Dunn is in a close battle with Gilpatrick for the final post spot.
- Kayla Eberz (2028, PA) – One of the top shooters left in camp. Her floor spacing could make her a valuable final selection.
- Reece Gilpatrick (2028, CO) – The biggest surprise of the weekend. A local standout, Gilpatrick’s skill level and consistency have earned her strong consideration.
- Jhaliana Guy (2028, IA) – Known for her defense, Guy is a cerebral point guard who will need to maintain composure and decision-making to secure a final spot.
- Jordyn Haywood (2028, MO) – Extremely versatile and efficient. Plays across multiple positions and continues to impress with her balance and poise.
- Maliya Hunter (2028, CA) – Tremendous motor and elite measurables. Needs to add more offensive polish, but her upside is high.
- Ashley McCalla (2028, NY) – Athletic and high-energy, McCalla brings intensity and toughness. She could be a dynamic complement to Ojo.
- Madi Mignery (2027, FL) – A smart shooter and passer who brings rebounding and interior versatility. Plays within herself and contributes in multiple ways.
- Ella Peper (2028, MA) – Continued her rise with another strong showing. The question will be how her skill translates if she’s asked to bang inside full-time.
- Arianna Robinson (2028, TX) – A tough, two-way guard who can get her own shot. Her strength and defense give her an edge in a deep guard group.
Notable Omissions: Snubs & Surprises
There are always difficult cuts. Here are a few players who could’ve just as easily made the final 22:
- Janiyah Hargrave (2028, OH) – A top athlete who made plays throughout camp. Many expected her to be a finalist at point guard.
- Carib Morris (2029, GA) – Despite being younger, Morris held her own physically. Once her range and playmaking catch up, she’ll be a star.
- Sydney Mobley (2027, OH) – A big-name post who didn’t quite break through this time, but still one of the premier players in her class.
- Charis Rainey (2028, CA) – A lights-out shooter and explosive athlete. Possibly edged out by more complete packages at the guard spot.
- Arianna Peterson (2028, MN) – A strong athlete who played within the system. Needed a bit more offensive aggression to stand out.
- Amy Nduka (2028, WA) – Showed flashes with deep shooting but struggled with lateral defense. Her tools remain promising.
- Nyajuacni Riak (2028, WI) – An elite physical prospect. Shooting consistency will be the final piece for her to hit the national elite tier.
