Per 247Sports.com and CatsPause: On Tuesday night, the McDonald’s All-American Game witnessed a come from behind victory by the East team over the West, led by Kentucky-bound guard DJ Wagner. Wagner’s phenomenal performance throughout the week was capped off with a 19-point second-half explosion during the game, which helped the East make a comeback and win. Let’s take a look at the best players and their performances throughout the week.
MVP: DJ WAGNER
DJ Wagner, from Camden High, New Jersey, became the first-ever third-generation McDonald’s All-American and proved to be worthy of this recognition. He was elusive off the dribble, buried pull-up jumpers, and was an opportunistic shooter from deep. Wagner scored all 19 of his points during the second half of the game, almost single-handedly leading the East squad to victory. He played on both ends of the court like it was a championship game and was a natural choice for the MVP award based on his body of work.
BEST FLOOR GENERAL: ISAIAH COLLIER
Isaiah Collier, a 6-foot-3 point guard from Marietta, Georgia, showed why he is the best passer in his class. Collier finished the game with 25 points and looked to be the best passer during the practice sessions. Although he missed a few free throws towards the end of the game, his performance throughout the week was remarkable and made him stand out from other floor generals. Collier’s game and ability to create plays make him an exciting prospect for the USC Trojans.
BEST WING: JUSTIN EDWARDS
Justin Edwards, the third-best player in the country, had an excellent week, playing at a level that was expected of him. Edwards is a smooth lefty with a big frame and lots of craft to his game. He plays the game at his own pace, deciding what happens on his terms and refusing to allow defenders to rush him into anything. Although he’s not yet an elite jump shooter from deep, he looked promising during the practice sessions.
BEST BIG: AARON BRADSHAW
Aaron Bradshaw, who hails from Camden, New Jersey, was at his best during the game. With his 18 points and eight rebounds, he was in the mix for the game MVP award. Bradshaw is mobile, has a frame to add weight to and is continuing to develop into a center with pick and pop potential. What really set him apart from other bigs in attendance was that he’s finally starting to become more of a presence as a rim protector. His promising development bodes well for Kentucky.
BEST MOTOR: RON HOLLAND
Ron Holland, a 6-foot-7 forward from Duncanville High, Texas, stood out because of his energy and toughness. Although he wasn’t the biggest or the strongest, he made winning-type plays all week long and never took a second of a single drill or competition off. Holland increased his overall skill level and shot the ball excellently from deep during the week. He is expected to make an immediate impact for Rodney Terry and the Longhorns.
BEST SPOT UP SHOOTER: BRONNY JAMES
Bronny James, son of LeBron James, showed that he belongs among the class of 2023’s best. James consistently proved to be the most reliable catch and shoot guy from deep during the practice sessions, and he showed the world what he could do by making five of eight from deep during the actual game. With a sturdy build at around 6-foot-3 and hops showcased during the dunk contest, James is an exciting prospect, and many top colleges will be vying to get him on board.
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