NEPSAC Class AA Showcase at Northfield Mt Hermon
The New England Prep School Athletic Conference (NEPSAC), established in 1942, is an athletic association of accredited New England prep schools. It spans seven states in the Northeast. For basketball, it has become a highly regarded, de facto feeder system for college basketball prospects. It runs various levels of play. In its Class A, B and C Divisions, participation is determined by the school's male-student-population. Alternatively, in Class AA and AAA, teams opt in. In doing so, they get expanded rules in terms of longer seasons and/or longer games in terms of minutes played.
NEPSAC, much like the NCAA, sanctions championship post-season tournaments in March. NEPSAC has committees choose and seed its top eight teams in each division for these tournaments. The challenge for the seeding committees for these tournaments is that their pool of candidates is spread over seven states, and thereby, don’t routinely play a full schedule against all the other candidates. To help that process, a number of efforts are made to get the likely contenders to play each other in various events.
To that end, on November 21-22, Northfield Mount Hermon is hosting a NEPSAC Class AA focused event at their gym in Mt Hermon, MA. Below, we profile the college prospects that will be playing.
Schedule
Friday, November 21
5:00pm Wilbraham & Monson Academy v Northfield Mt Hermon School
9:00pm Winchendon School v MacDuffie School
Saturday, November 22
1:00pm MacDuffie School v Northfield Mt Hermon
5:00pm Wilbraham & Monson Academy v Winchendon School
Northfield Mt Hermon School From Mt Hermon, MA
Head Coach: Mike Shelton (203) 668 4084
Isaiah Aminzadeh (2026) 6'4 guard - From Wenham, MA, Aminzadeh is the ultimate glue kid who just makes winning plays. He is a high academic, projected to be an IVY, NESCAC or UAA level prospect.
CJ Azor (2026) 6'2 guard - #86 ranked player in New England by Prep Hoops. From Rochester, NY, Azor brings playmaking, toughness and high-level shooting to the backcourt. He can play either guard spot. Offensively, he’s lightning-quick and extremely physical with the ball in his hands; he gets downhill and brushes off contact like it’s nothing. Defensively, he slides his feet incredibly well and was consistently beating the offensive player to the spot. Receiving D1 recruitment. Plays AAU with Team Northeast. 4.0 gpa
Nate Djanogly (2026) 6'9 forward - London, England, unfortunately, Djaogly missed most of last season due to an ankle injury. He ended up only playing in 4 games. With a lot of upside and size, he has a great 3 point shooting stroke. His consistency as a shooter will likely shape his college ball options. Projected as Patriot or Ivy League level prospect. Straight A student.
Destine Evans (2026) 6'6 small forward - From Trenton, NJ, Destine is a post-grad from the Pennington School (NJ) where he averaged 15ppg. He has a D1 college ready body and currently has a D2 offer. A lot of schools form all levels have reached out and coming this fall to the NHM Open Gyms to get a closer look. Projected to be a Patriot League, Ivy League or America East level prospect.
Will Higgs (2026) 6'11 forward - From Atlantic Highlands High (NJ) Higgs is coming off an ACL injury, which had him out all year last year. While he did miss a lot of development, he looks great now and still has the ability to reclass to '27 if he doesn't get the D1 opportunity he is looking for. Holds offers from Texas A&M, East Carolina, Fairfield, Fordham, Cal State Bakersfield and NJIT.
Imangali Imbergen (2026) 6'7 small forward - From Astana, Kazakhstan, Imbergen is coming to NMH for a post-grad year from Montverde Academy. He had a strong junior season, but unfortunately had a season-ending injury his senior year. He is a freakish athlete who thrives in transition.
Darren Moore (2026) 6'2 point guard - Was committed to Stonehill College but since has decided to open up his recruitment. He is coming from the winning powerhouse, Bullis School (MD). He is a traditional point guard that can make shots in bunches and plays 94 feet on defense. Projected as a Low Major+ prospect.
Merrick Rillstone (2026) 6'8 forward - From Hamilton, New Zealand, Merrick comes to NMH via South Lakes High (VA). He was a two time state champ there, starting and averaging 17 ppg. An ankle injury held him out this entire summer, but he is a projected starter for NMH. He has range out to the 3 and can handle the ball really well for his size. Projected as a Low Major+ prospect.
Brayden Thayer (2026) 6'3 guard - From Northfield, MA, Thayer is a Shooter! He averaged 25 ppg for state champs, Pioneer Valley (MA). He showed that he could play at the NEPSAC AA level this summer as he had a 20 point performance vs Wilbraham & Monson Academy (MA) that included four threes. He is projected as a High Academic D3 NESCAC or Liberty League level prospect.
Freddie Bacon (2027) 6'2 point guard, From Colchester, VT, Bacon is coming off a development year as a repeat sophomore at NMH. He is a natural scorer and dynamic facilitator. Bacon is increasing his efficiency as a ball handler. He gets to his spots comfortably and uses his speed and quickness to make plays for himself, or others off the Pick and Roll. While in Vermont, Bacon had an incredible sophomore campaign for the Colchester Lakers, averaging roughly 22 ppg, 5 reb, and 5 ast. He possesses a mental toughness far beyond his years. His ability to lead his team at the point guard position allows him to make plays at all three levels. Plays AAU with Team White Mamba - MHC 16u. High academic.
Blake Bastani (2027) 6'5 guard - From Orinda, CA, Bastani is a transfer from New Hampton School (NH). The wiry guard can make a lot of shots and get to his spots in the mid-range. He is looking to have a breakout junior year after recovering from an injury that slowed him during the AAU summer season, now that he will be a featured part of the rotation. Projected as a Low Major+ prospect. Plays AAU with Jalen Green Elite.
Kaya Birsen (2028) 6'1 guard - From London, England, Birsen is a repeat sophomore is regarded as one of the best point guards in the country's 16u divisions. He excels both on and off the ball, combining skill with a high basketball IQ, allowing him to effectively attack the basketball, shoot from long range, or create opportunities for his teammates.
Caiden Manning (2028) 6'2 guard - Manning is a natural born basketball player. His overall work ethic in the gym and weight room will separate him from the rest of his peers in years to come. The oldest son of a coach, he has the passion and IQ for the sport like no other. The Massachusetts native is a knockdown 3pt shooter from range and blends his high energy with coachability very well, He also has the ability to put it on the floor and create also. Plays AAU with Middlesex Magic 15u. High academic.
Maxxwell Thorpe (2028) 6’9 forward – Thorpe’s potential is sky high. He runs the floor hard, rebounds and blocks shots, and competes at a very high level. Having transitioned from playing soccer, he is smoothly coordinated and has footwork well beyond his years. Projected Mid Major+ prospect. Plays AAU for Expressions-EYBL.
MacDuffie School from Granby, MA
Head Coach: Kurt Steiner (508) 713 3799
Andrew Adegbite (2026) 6'6 small forward - Adegbite is a long-armed forward with bounce, muscle, and an ascending three-point shot. He averaged 19.5 points, 15.4 rebounds, 2.8 blocks, and 1.9 steals at Pompton Lakes High (NJ) in 2024-25. Has been offered by Millersville and Georgian Court. Plays AAU with NJ Panthers. Video highlights
Elijah Avery-Turner (2026) 6’4 guard - Avery-Turner is a tenacious two guard with size, muscle, and intellect. He has the ability to finish above the rim with impressive athleticism. His intense work ethic is outmatched on and off the court. Defensively, he forces turnovers and crowds the passing lanes. Fast twitch guard off the dribble with fluid shooting form on all spots of the floor. He has great court vision finding his teammates in transition. Offered by the Air Force Academy. Plays AAU with New York Lightning Select HGSL. 3.9 gpa Video highlights RTB profile
Johnny Akot Bol (2026) 7’0 center - #12 ranked player in New England by Prep Hoops. Bol is from South Sudan and is receiving interest from high-major schools. He has an active motor and is an active shot blocker with a 6’10 wingspan. Great shooting touch around the rim and can consistently make a hook shot over either shoulder. He is excellent at forming a wall when he jumps to contest in the driving lane. Moves well without the ball and can hit a 3pt shot off a pick and pop. This past winter season, he shot over 90% from the free-throw line and finished with over 50 blocks this year in the NEPSAC AA. Receiving recruitment from Iona, NJIT, Iowa and Florida Gulf Coast. Plays AAU with Mass Rivals 16u 3SSB. 3.1 gpa RTB profile
Brayden Harris (2026) 6’5 wing - A post grad from Valley Christian High in San Jose, CA. 2024-25 West Coast Athletic League 1st Team, All-State and All Bay Area. He is long-armed wing with bounce and has one on one creation skills. He led Valley Christian to their most wins in the past 20 years. Long-armed wing with bounce and one on one creation. Plays AAU with Players Play (CA)-Pro 16 circuit. Video highlights
Patrick Sagna (2026) 6’1 guard - Long-armed guard who play-makes, defends multiple positions, and sports a chiseled frame. Plays AAU with Epic Elite 17u UAA
Sam Thompson (2026) 6’4 power forward - Southpaw forward who hits spot-up treys and has leaping ability when given room to load up. Plays AAU with Mass Huskies ZGXL
Keyshon Joyner (2027) 5’9 point guard - Pass-first guard with length, strength, and adequate shot making. All-NEPSAC Class AA Honorable Mention this past season. Plays AAU with Middlesex Magic - Lambros 17u. 3.7 gpa
Mihailo Vojinovic (2026) 6’7 center - Montenegrin big man with aggression, a wide frame, and back to the basket skill. Plays AAU with The House We Built 16u HGSL. 3.6 gpa
Keyshon Joyner (2027) 5’9 point guard - 2024-25 All-NEPSAC Class AA Honorable Mention. Joyner is a pass first guard with length, strength, and adequate shot-making. Competes on the HGSL circuit for Middlesex Magic - Lambros 17U. 3.7 gpa Video highlights
Jackson Lockett (2027) 6’6 power forward - Hybrid forward with length, toughness, and two-way instincts. Plays AAU with New Jersey Scholars 16u EYBL.
Sage Kennedy (2028) 6’2 shooting guard - A scoring guard who has a plus wingspan, floor spacing ability, and upside as he grows into his body. He plays AAU with BABC 15u 3SSB. 3.8 gpa
Daniel Wheeler (2028) 6’4 small forward - A shot-making wing with feel, competitiveness, and a strong leg base. Plays AAU with Team Sims-UA 15u UA Rise circuit. 4.0 gpa
Xavier McCall (2029) 6’6 power forward, The MacDuffie School (MA) - Broadly built forward with length, bounce, and pedigree. Plays AAU with BABC 14u 3SSB.
Wilbraham & Monson Academy from Wilbraham, MA
Head Coach: Mike Mannix (215) 510 9543
Alex Elston (2026) 6'2 guard - Elston is a playmaking point guard. He has good court vision and creates off the dribble to find the open man or score. He's very capable of scoring through contact. His athleticism allows him to finish above the rim on his drives and defend his position very well. Plays AAU with Local Hoops (WA) 3SSB Gold. Good gpa
Sam Fleming (2026) 6'7 power forward - #129 ranked player in the nation by 24/7 Sports. #7 ranked player in New England by Prep Hoops. A versatile wing that can operate as the hub of an offense, Fleming continues to do a bit of everything on the offensive end of the floor. At 6’7″ he has the ability to take smaller defenders into the post where he’s an efficient scorer; in space he does a nice job of handling the ball and operating as a primary initiator. Has received multiple D1 offers, including UMass and West Virginia. NERR profile
Christian Martin (2026) 6'3 guard - A high level shooter, Martin had three games last season with 7 made 3pt FG. His great footwork that allows him to be more than a catch and shoot guy off kick outs. He uses flares and pin downs to get his shot. He has as high of a basketball IQ as you'll find. Team leader with his talk and focus. He averaged 9 points per game. 35% from 3. 60 made 3pt FG. Plays AAU with Mass Rivals. High gpa NERR Profile
Chinedu Okpara (2026) 6'7, 6'11 wingspan - 2024-25 All NEPSAC Class AA. Okpara is an incredibly versatile player. He scores around the basket and shot 40% from 3 last year. He blocks shots, rebounds and makes very athletic plays around the basket. He averaged14 ppg, 7 rebounds per game and shot 33% from 3 this past season. Plays AAU with Middlesex Magic. High gpa RTB profile
Colin Okparaigwe (2026) 6.5 guard - A senior from the Czech Czech Republic who can score it and is an active defender creating turnovers. His wingspan (6'6") and athleticism allows him to disrupt and finish at the rim on the other end. High gpa
Jayden Cole (2027) 6’5 guard/wing. Cole has a good skill set as a shot maker.
Dylan Keane (2027) 6’7, 250lb forward - Keane uses his size to post well. He is also a good rebounder and is able to stretch the floor from 3.
Julien Price (2027) 6’3 guard - Price can play both guard positions. He is a versatile scorer that has had a good summer with the Atlanta Xpress on the UAA circuit.
Anson Yip (2027) 5'11 point guard - Yip is a smart point guard that plays hard. He shoots it well. Plays AAU with Team White Mamba. High gpa
Maddox Dobson (2028) 6’5 wing- Dobson has two-way versatility and a high level feel for the game with the ball in his hands. He has grown into his body and now combines fluidity with strength and some budding athleticism. He’s got a nice skill package and the ability to impact a game in a variety of ways. He can operate as a decision maker on the perimeter or take advantage of smaller defenders in the paint as a scorer. Defensively, he guards up and down a position and does a nice job of making plays as a grab and go rebounder. PH profile
Owen Earle (2028) A 6'3, 185lb, guard - He plays both point and the 2 guard. Earle is as strong as a guard as you'll find as a 2028. He drives and finishes through contact with a good sense of finishing with a pull up, floater or at the rim. He has good instincts and plays tough. Plays AAU with Middlesex Magic. High gpa
Devin White (2028) 5'11 point guard - A quick and strong point guard who plays with great pace. He shot 33% from 3 and 90% from the FT line this past season. Plays AAU with Middlesex Magic HGSL. High gpa NERR profile
Trey Dillahunt (2029) 5'10 point guard -. A young guard, but his play shows experience and high IQ at an early age. Shoots the ball well and has a good speed and ability to get to the basket and make plays. Plays AAU with BABC. High gpa
Winchendon School from Winchendon, MA
Head Coach: Alex Popp (617) 877 4571
Daniel Bussey (2026) 6'3 guard - 2024-25 NEPSAC Class C Player of the Year for Harvey School (NY). Bussey is a super active playmaker on both ends of the floor. He’s electric in the open floor, he finishes above the rim, he makes open 3s, and he has a very high ceiling. Plays AAU with New York Basketball Academy. 3.6 gpa RTB profile
Quinn Gibson (2026) 6'6 wing - From Cherry Hill, NJ, Gibson is a versatile two way player who impacts winning on both sides of the basketball. Defensively, he anticipates well, he can guard multiple positions, and he rebounds at a high clip (especially in traffic). Offensively, he is a mismatch for opponents for a myriad of reasons. He scores as all three levels and is an underrated creator for himself and for his teammates. Last but not least, he gets to the free throw line at a high rate.
Jason Grady (2026) 6'6 small forward - Grady is a versatile wing. He drills it from 3. and is a good playmaker on the block and the elbow. 2024-25 Metro League Player of the Year (Portland, OR). 4.0 gpa
Beckham King (2026) 6'9 small forward - From Seattle, WA , King is a skilled shot maker with high ceiling. He is son of 14th overall pick in the 1991 NBA Draft, Rich King. Plays his AAU with Washington Supreme PRO16. 3.6 gpa
Brady Sehlhorst (2026) 6'7 small forward - From Chicago, Il, Sehlhorst is a very long-range sniper. He is very good at finding angles when attacking downhill., and is a loud above-the-rim finisher. He averaged 22 ppg, 7 rpg, 42% 3FG, 55% 2FG, and is the Notre Dame High (Il) single season scoring record holder. Has received D1 offers, including, Toledo and NJIT. Plays AAU with Mean Streets EYBL.
Cameron Blankenberg (2027) 6'7 small forward - Two-time All-Greater Rochester Player of the Year, as a sophomore and junior at Wayne High (NY). Wayne won two Section V titles and made two trips to the state final four behind Blankenberg. He is do-it-all player who averaged 28.7 points, 11 rebounds, six assists and three blocks as a junior. He became the school's All Time scoring leader as a junior. Plays AAU with City Rocks EYCL. 3.7 gpa Video highlights
Treddy Faison (2027) 5'11 point guard - Transferred in from LaSalle Academy (NY) where he was their lead guard and leading scorer. He is an innate leader and stabilizing influence with the ball. He has a good build and is cool under pressure. His nickname on the team is "Off Night" in that is what his defensive intensity brings to his opponent. Has received multiple D1 offers, including Le Moyne, Siena and Albany. Plays AAU with City Rocks. Video highlights
Jayse Tre Johnson (2027) 5'9 point guard - Johnson's strengths are getting others involved, making the correct read, and being able to score the ball when needed to. Plays AAU with New York Lightning. Video highlights RTB profile
Aidan Knight (2027) 6’2 guard - Knight is from Nashua, NH and is of the best defensive guards in the region and a versatile three-level scorer. Named 1st Team All-Circuit on the New Balance platform. Plays AAU with Team NSSA. 3.7 gpa Video highlights
Tavin Penix (2027) 6’5 guard - Penix is a smooth operating guard who can find the bucket in a plethora of ways. He takes what the defense gives him. He is a constant threat from three and can erupt quickly from there. He has good positional size for the lead guard spot. He is active on the glass and has good vertical explosion. He also showed he can alter shots. Has received multiple D1 offers, including LeMoyne, Marist and Stonehill. Plays AAU with Syracuse Hoop Roots. Video highlights