The Indiana Basketball Academy (IBA) left a lasting impression at the AAU basketball world nationals in Orlando, Florida, culminating in a flawless 6-0 record and a well-deserved championship title. Leading the charge were standout players Will Tonagel, Karason Stoudemire, and Maxwell Hopkins, whose stellar performances on the court propelled IBA to victory and solidified their status as rising stars in the youth basketball scene.
Tonagel, put on a scoring clinic, lit up the tournament with an impressive average of 24 points per game, earning him the top spot in scoring. His versatility was on full display as he also excelled in playmaking, ranking 4th in assists with 3 per game, and showcased his defensive prowess with 2 blocks and 2 steals per game, respectively.
Stoudemire, a dominant force in the paint, delivered a double-double performance with 13 points and 11 rebounds per game, while leading the tournament in assists with 5 per game and showcasing his defensive abilities with a steal per game.
Joining the duo in their quest for glory was Maxwell Hopkins, whose tenacity and skill were instrumental in IBA's success. Hopkins, a double-double machine, topped the charts with an impressive 13 rebounds per game and contributed 12 points per game to the team's offensive output, providing a crucial inside presence and helping secure crucial possessions on the boards.
Complementing the frontcourt dominance were high-level guards Ryan Gold and Zyaire Berryhill, whose leadership and playmaking abilities played a pivotal role in IBA's championship run. Gold, a facilitator and scorer extraordinaire, orchestrated the team's offense with precision and led at a high level, while Berryhill's toughness and offensive leadership were instrumental in setting the tone for the team's success.
Together, Tonagel, Stoudemire, Hopkins, Gold, Berryhill, and the rest of the IBA squad showcased a winning blend of skill, teamwork, and determination that propelled them to the pinnacle of youth basketball success. Their collective efforts not only brought glory to Indiana but also cemented their legacy as a powerhouse in the AAU basketball world nationals. The future looks bright for these rising stars as they continue to make waves and inspire the next generation of basketball talent.
