Man, where do I even begin? The 2025 Nike Hoop Summit was one wild ride with the World Select Team just barely missing out in a nail-biting overtime loss to Team USA, 124–117. Honestly, it was a bit of a surprise because everyone thought Team USA was gonna crush it. But no, the World Team came in all guns blazing with their grit and raw talent. Some of these international kids really showed up big time. Like, outta nowhere, Tounde Yessoufou, Tajh Ariza, and Bogoljub Markovic were just tearing it up with their physicality and scoring. And then you had guards like Dame Sarr and Ikenna Alozie with moments that made you double-take. It felt more intense than your average high school showcase, I’m telling ya. It wasn’t just about flashy plays — this was about national pride and real team dynamics.
Anyway, let’s dive into some highlights…
First up, you’ve got Tounde Yessoufou. This dude from Benin? Built like a linebacker but plays like a baller. I swear, every time he was on D, it was like he could guard half the court or something. He’s just everywhere, closing out shots and yelling at the rest of the squad to keep ’em going. And offensively? Man, he’s getting better by the minute. Hit 24 points, and his coast-to-coast layup moment to push the game into overtime? Wild.
Then there’s Tajh Ariza, the high-flyer from Japan. Seriously, I’ve never seen anyone leap quite like him. It’s like the guy has springs for legs. He was nabbing all sorts of offensive board action and even managed a baseline drive that had the crowd losing their minds. Defensive-wise, his long arms were just everywhere, disrupting passes like it was nobody’s business.
And then oh my, Dame Sarr from Italy. I wouldn’t say he’s the next big thing just yet, but some real potential there. Kind of like a young Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He’s smooth, plays wisely, and there’s definitely an edge in his scoring ability. Mark my words, keep an eye on him.
Ikenna Alozie from Nigeria is a short guard but plays like he’s been in the league for five years. His wingspan makes him a defensive legend in the making. His energy and athleticism? You can’t buy that kind of stuff. He stormed the court with a crowd-pleasing dunk and kept the energy alive all game long.
Oh, and don’t even get me started on Kiyan Anthony. Felt like all eyes were on him, what with his dad, Carmelo Anthony, watching from the stands. He didn’t get as much playtime as I’d hoped and struggled to find his groove. But you can’t deny he’s got that shooting stroke. Just needs to put it all together, I guess.
Now, Bogoljub Markovic — the Serbian giant. Not literally, but the kid is tall and can shoot! He matched his size with skill, pulling off threes like he was born doing it. Feels like he’s got the charisma of a typical class clown but backs it up with plays that really matter.
Now that I think about it, all of these players — each with their quirks and styles — came together to create something quite mesmerizing. It was more than just basketball; it was electrifying, almost personal, for those guys, and it felt like I was part of something bigger just by watching.
So yeah, that’s my bit on the 2025 Nike Hoop Summit. A mixture of skill, hustle, and heart — and it made for quite the basketball thriller, I’d say.
