News Summary

Sioux Falls recently hosted the Fourth Annual ‘Who’s Next?’ High School Basketball Combine, attracting over 138 talented athletes from multiple states. The two-day event included skill development stations, performance tests, and 5-on-5 games, all while providing a valuable recruiting opportunity for college coaches from Division II and NAIA institutions. Notable players showcased their talents, and the event focused on player development and teamwork, fostering connections among emerging stars in the basketball community.

Excitement in Sioux Falls: The Fourth Annual “Who’s Next?” Basketball Combine

Sioux Falls was buzzing with energy as the fourth annual Sanford Sports “Who’s Next?” High School Combine kicked off at the Pentagon recently. This highly anticipated event brought together over 138 talented young athletes from not just South Dakota, but also from nearby states like Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Nebraska. Talk about a regional showdown!

A Two-Day Extravaganza

The combine spanned two action-packed days, with the boys taking center stage on Sunday and the girls showcasing their skills on Monday. Each group got the chance to strut their stuff by participating in skill development stations, performance tests, and exciting 5-on-5 games. Athletes were keen to demonstrate their abilities—from shooting and passing to ball-handling and finishing at the rim. It was a true test of talent and teamwork!

College Coaches in Attendance

Coaches from various Division II and NAIA colleges were present at the event, with about 8 to 10 schools represented annually. This gave aspiring players a golden opportunity to be noticed by college recruiters who may not have the chance to watch them during regular season games. The combine not only allowed coaches to evaluate these athletes in real-time but also enabled them to observe multiple games simultaneously, making the process efficient and effective.

Spotlight on Talented Players

The combine featured some standout players who were eager to impress. Among the boys, senior standouts like Sam DeGroot from Sioux Falls Lincoln, Will Kuhl of West Central, Mason Clark from O’Gorman, and Trey Hansen from Vermillion were expected to make waves. On the girls’ side, Ruth Dvoracek and Emory Lems, both from Sioux Falls Christian, were among those catching the eyes of onlookers.

A Great Learning Experience

One of the biggest draws of the combine is its focus on player development. With teams formed on the fly, athletes had to adapt quickly and collaborate with new teammates, which fostered creativity and sparked new friendships within the basketball community. This blend of competition and camaraderie created an atmosphere where young athletes could not only grow on the court but also bond off it.

A Crucial Opportunity for Athletes

The combine was not just about showcasing talent; it served as a vital recruiting opportunity for seniors looking to secure their next steps in college basketball. For younger players, it acted as a launchpad to make their mark in the basketball world. With a modest registration fee of $60, participants received a stylish Sanford Sports Basketball Academy jersey, making it a worthwhile investment for any aspiring baller.

Looking Forward

As the event wrapped up, it was clear that the Sioux Falls “Who’s Next?” Combine has become a cornerstone of the high school basketball calendar—one that brings together promising athletes and eager college coaches in an environment designed for growth and exposure. We can’t wait to see where these talented players go from here!

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