What intrigues me about sports is that the game keeps going. Each year there is a crop of potential that nips at the heels of their predecessors. The ecosystem of Georgia basketball has created a pipeline of proven players and it has no signs of stopping.
Over the past 15 years, I’ve been able to witness many players transition through Georgia basketball. The Lou Will era, Malcom Brogdon era, Jalen Brown era, the Colin Sexton and Wendell Carter saga, and most recently the Issac Okoro and Anthony Edwards both SEC one and dones from the 2019 Class. Which brings us to the Next Wave of prospects in the pipeline who have a chance to play at the highest level pending their will, proper guidance and luck.
We invited 14 players who have gained recognition for their hard work and talent and placed them against each other in a semi structured environment on a late summer weekday. Players were given a brief lesson in “Pin-down” principles and offensive reads to as a takeaway.
Prior to tip-off, there were a few players that were engaged from the time they stepped on the floor. Amir Taylor 6’5”, 220lb class of 2025, modern skilled big who can put it on the floor, makes plays, and is active on both ends.
Kevin Savage III always comes to compete and was engaged the entire event. There aren’t too many players as instinctual in transition as in half court. Full of confidence, the 2026 PG got what he wanted as far as shot opportunities and paint touches. Accuracy was a bit off however low 3pt shooting percentage was the theme of the night across the board.
Devin Hutcherson, barely recognizable due to a major growth spurt, now standing 6’0, the 2026 all around player, was ready to perform as soon as he stepped within the lines.
Akai Fleming 2025, a quick twitch, explosive and active lead guard will benefit from adding pace to his attacks and counters. Decision making is a major separator. Once he adds pace and intentionality his potential is limitless. He finished with double digit points and 9Reb 4Blk 3Stl and 4 deflections which all effort/high motor indicators.
Breakout Performer:
2025 Riley Saunders has been in the lab all summer. He has gone from elite athlete to an effective basketball player. The 5’10 combo guard is a few years away from becoming a playmaking Pg. In the Skillcase, Saunders finished with 11PTS 8REBS 3BLK 2STL and 1AST. His production on the defensive end along with his 50–50 ball possessions and deflections are the glue the team needed to seal the win.
Game summary:
The game was competitive until the 4th quarter. Sloppy transition play and a few chippy misses caused the deficit to widen.
MOP: Devin Hutcherson
Most Outstanding Performance was awarded to Devin Hutcherson. Hutcherson is a Swiss Army knife, does it all, and was too tough to guard essentially winning every matchup. Devin finished with 28Pts 8REBS 5BLK 2AST and 3STL. His game continues to elevate and his ability to finish in traffic has improved dramatically. Can’t wait to witness his journey.
RR
