Terry Holt’s Annual Snowball Classic Delivers Early-Season Statement Performances

Terry Holt’s Annual Snowball Classic tipped off Friday in Cincinnati, Ohio, once again providing a high-level, early-season measuring stick for some of the Midwest’s top youth basketball programs. The event featured teams from across the region competing in divisions ranging from 3rd through 8th grade, offering a competitive environment that highlighted both team success and individual growth.

Championship hardware was spread across several standout programs. Garden State Bounce claimed the 3rd grade title, while Fam Elite emerged victorious in the 4th grade division. Hang Time Elite captured the 5th grade championship, Indiana Wolves secured the 6th grade crown, and SC Elite National dominated the upper divisions, winning both the 7th and 8th grade championships.

While there were notable performances in the 7th and 8th grade brackets—particularly from Braylon Davis and Jonathon “JJ” Moore—our primary focus was on the 6th grade division, which featured a wealth of emerging talent.

The most dominant presence in the 6th grade field was unquestionably Kevin “KJ” Battle (6’0″/ C/2032/Indianapolis, IN). Battle controlled the paint on both ends of the floor, scoring at a high rate, rebounding at an elite level, and protecting the rim with authority. He displayed impressive athleticism, strong lateral movement, and the ability to handle the ball in transition. Additionally, he showed shooting range when left unguarded. In our view, Battle currently stands as the top big man nationally in his class.

Geno Land (6’2″/PG/2032/Cincinnati, OH) also turned in a standout weekend, continuing to show significant long-term upside. Land combines advanced skill with exceptional positional size for his age and is particularly effective attacking and finishing at the basket. Each viewing seems to reveal further development in his game. With continued growth, Land projects as a high-major college prospect.

Quan Casby (5’3″/SG/2032/Knoxville, TN) emerged as one of the biggest breakout players of the weekend. In his opening game against the highly regarded Buckeye Prep Phenoms, Casby erupted for over 20 points. He followed that performance with another strong outing against the Cincinnati Blazers, establishing himself as a legitimate three-level scorer. Entering the weekend relatively unknown, Casby quickly became a topic of conversation throughout the gym. Expect his national profile to rise following this performance.

Jordan Taylor (5’0″/PG/2032/Gahanna, OH) also delivered another standout showing, leading his team in scoring in multiple key matchups. In a quarterfinal contest against the Midwest Basketball Club, Taylor knocked down several clutch shots en route to a team-high 22 points. He was effective from beyond the arc, utilized his floater well, and played with intensity on the defensive end. Teammate David Johnson III (5’2″/WF/2032/Worthington, OH) was equally impressive, hitting clutch free throws to force overtime and finishing with an outstanding 21-point performance.

Derek “DJ” Coleman (5’0″/ PG/2032/Louisville, KY) entered the event with a strong national reputation, and his play only reinforced it. Widely regarded as one of the best floor generals in the country, Coleman displayed his trademark explosiveness while balancing scoring and playmaking duties. His ability to change speed and direction remains elite, making him one of the most entertaining guards to watch.

One additional player who caught our attention was Javion Jackson (5’8″/PF/2032/Cincinnati, OH). Jackson impressed with his ball skills, athleticism, and ability to finish consistently around the rim. His continued development warrants a boost in both state and national rankings.Another notable performer was

Jett Darbyshire (5’8″/SG/2032/Cincinnati, OH), who delivered an impressive shooting display in a quarterfinal loss. Darbyshire showcased deep range, knocking down shots both off the dribble and in catch-and-shoot situations.

Overall, Terry Holt and his staff once again delivered a first-class event that provided meaningful competition and a valuable evaluation platform for young prospects. Congratulations to Holt and his team on another successful Snowball Classic.

Standout Performers

Other Players to Watch

Standout Performer Pictures

Braylon Davis

Austin Okarman

Jonathon “JJ” Moore

Rodney Yearson

Zachary Randolph

Kevin “KJ” Battle Jr.

Geno Land

Derek “DJ” Coleman Jr.

Jordan Taylor

Javion Jackson

Quan Casby

David “DJ” Johnson III

Jett Darbyshire

Jace Byrd

Christian “JR” Morrow Jr.

Julian Winner

Lyke Berry

Jace Byrd

Dayshawn Taylor

Jaxx McKinney

Xavier Vance

Latrell Adams

Justus Parham

Andre Dean

Bentley Kinnebrew

Chauncey Cumberlander Jr.