2012 Summer Breakout Player of the Year

It's a tie - look inside for more!

Co-Breakout Players of the Year

James Young, The Family

The Troy, Michigan native caught the eye of every recruiter, coach and fan this summer. Young was able to captivate all audiences with his ability to score at will. After having been named MVP of the Nike Global Challenge, the 6-4 lefty had a stellar performance at the EYBL Finals at Peach Jam.

The smooth-scorer rose in the rankings at an extreme rate this summer. From a relatively unknown recruit not too long ago, Young is now a top-five talent in the nation, with the skills necessary to compete at the next level and beyond.

Following an extraordinary July, Young has the best-of-the-best recruiting him. The long list of schools includes the National Champion Kentucky Wildcats, Michigan State and Ohio State.

Zach LaVine, FOH Seattle

Coming into the summer, LaVine was ranked very low according to numerous media outlets. The high-flyer simply took advantage of the opportunities presented at camps throughout the summer, proving his worth against the nation’s top prospects.

In June, LaVine attended the Pangos All-American Camp. At Pangos, the Seattle, Washington native displayed an unbelievable offensive skill-set, characterized by an uncanny ability to finish above the rim.

LaVine followed up a breakout performance at Pangos with a series of impressive showings at the NBPA Top 100 Camp and Reebok Breakout Challenge. Following his superb play this summer, LaVine received a bevy of high-major offers and has committed to play at UCLA.

Other players receiving consideration: 

• Rondae Jefferson, Team Final A recruit that has received interest from neighboring Big East programs, Jefferson turned heads with his performance at Peach Jam. The 6-7 forward played exceptionally well, leading his team on both ends of the floor. Programs such as Arizona, Florida and Indiana are now knocking on Jefferson’s door.
• Marcus Lee, California Supreme The 6-9 shot-blocker improved his stock after demonstrating an uncanny ability to protect the rim. Lee shined at several major events throughout the summer including the LeBron James Skills Academy and Nike Global Challenge. Lee is currently fielding offers from the nation’s finest, including: Duke, Florida, and Indiana.