The 26th annual National Prep School Invitational, an esteemed event in the world of high school basketball, is set to unfold at the picturesque Rhode Island College in Providence, a location that has become synonymous with showcasing emerging basketball talent. This annual tournament has gained a reputation for attracting elite prep basketball programs and players, serving as a vital platform for young athletes aiming to make their mark in the sport. This year, the event promises to be particularly exciting, as it will prominently feature an impressive array of Canadian talent. Renowned Canadian programs such as Fort Erie International Academy, Crestwood Prep, William Academy, and Hodan Prep are gearing up to showcase their skills on this prominent stage, bringing with them a legacy of excellence in basketball development.
These institutions have consistently produced top-tier athletes who have gone on to excel in both collegiate and professional basketball. The inclusion of these powerhouse programs not only elevates the level of competition but also highlights the growing prominence of Canadian basketball on the international stage. Furthermore, several standout Canadian players who are currently competing for American prep schools will also participate, adding to the rich tapestry of talent at the Invitational. This convergence of talent from both Canadian and American prep schools creates a dynamic and competitive atmosphere, offering players invaluable exposure to scouts and coaches from various collegiate programs.
As the National Prep School Invitational approaches, anticipation builds among players, coaches, and basketball enthusiasts alike. The event is not just about the games; it represents a critical opportunity for young athletes to display their skills, work ethic, and potential in front of a wider audience. For many, this tournament could serve as a stepping stone to scholarships and future basketball careers. With the spotlight on these emerging stars, the Invitational promises to deliver thrilling matchups, showcasing the depth and diversity of talent that exists within the realm of prep basketball across North America.
Fort Erie International Academy
Fort Erie continues to solidify its reputation as a top development program, bringing a talented squad headlined by:
Chris Kumu (6'2 Guard, 2025) – A skilled shot creator who can punish the rim in the open court or through traffic. He has a smooth handle and excels at creating space for his jumper. Kumu also possesses excellent court vision, making him a capable playmaker. His defensive intensity allows him to pressure opposing guards effectively.
Mahliq Guiseppi-Kitson (6'6 Guard, 2026) – A versatile wing with strong defensive instincts and athleticism. He can guard multiple positions due to his length and quick feet. Offensively, he thrives in transition and finishes well at the rim. His developing outside shot makes him a promising perimeter threat.
Promis N'Landu (6'4 Guard, 2026) – A high-energy guard who excels in transition and has a developing perimeter game. His quick first step allows him to blow by defenders and get into the lane. N'Landu is a strong rebounder for his position, often grabbing boards and pushing the pace. His defensive instincts make him a disruptive presence on the perimeter.
Deng Ngor (6'7 Forward, 2027) – A promising young forward with a combination of length and mobility. He has a natural shot-blocking ability and alters shots in the paint. Ngor also has a soft touch around the basket and can step out to hit mid-range jumpers. His upside is tremendous as he continues to develop his offensive skill set.
Jihad El-Khatib (6'7 Forward, 2025) – A tough, physical presence in the paint with a refined scoring touch. He uses his body well to establish position and finish through contact. El-Khatib is also a capable passer from the post, finding open teammates when double-teamed. His defensive versatility allows him to guard both forward spots.
Eli Jolin (6'6 Guard, 2026) – A skilled wing who can knock down shots and contribute in multiple ways. He moves well without the ball, finding open spaces for catch-and-shoot opportunities. Jolin has a high basketball IQ, making smart plays on both ends of the floor. His ability to play multiple positions makes him a valuable asset.
Committed Prospects: Tristan Beckford (Arkansas State), Marial Akuentok (Texas A&M)
Hodan Prep
Hodan Prep brings an imposing roster featuring size and scoring ability, led by:
Saad Chaudhry (6'9 Forward, 2025) – A rim-protecting big with offensive upside. He has great timing on shot contests and consistently alters attempts in the paint. Chaudhry also possesses a reliable hook shot and is working on extending his range. His rebounding ability provides his team with second-chance opportunities.
Josiah Roberts (6'4 Guard, 2025) – A dynamic guard who thrives in up-tempo play. He is an aggressive attacker who looks to get downhill and finish through contact. Roberts has a tight handle and can navigate through defensive pressure effectively. His leadership on the court helps elevate his teammates' play.
Jaden Lee (6'5 Guard, 2025) – A well-rounded scorer who can create his own shot. He has a smooth pull-up jumper and is effective in isolation situations. Lee also plays with great pace, knowing when to push the tempo or slow things down. Defensively, he is active and uses his length to disrupt passing lanes.
Zachary Downer (6'6 Guard, 2025) – A hard-nosed guard who can breakdown defenders off the dribble. He is comfortable pulling up from deep or shooting off movement. Downer’s ball-handling ability allows him to create space for his shot. He is also an underrated passer, often setting up teammates with sharp assists.
Ian McBride (6'9 Forward, 2026) – A developing forward with impressive footwork and rebounding ability. He has a strong base, allowing him to hold his position in the post. McBride’s mid-range jumper is coming along, giving him an added offensive weapon. His work ethic suggests he will continue to expand his game.
Daunte Jones (6'3 Guard, 2026) – A quick, athletic guard with strong defensive tools. He takes pride in shutting down opponents and contesting shots effectively. Jones has a reliable floater and is comfortable attacking the rim. His ability to read the game makes him a valuable asset in tight situations.
Committed Prospects: Dante Censori-Hercules (Portland)
William Academy
William Academy boasts a balanced roster with talent at multiple positions, including:
Tristan Darko (6'4 Guard, 2025) – A crafty scorer with a high basketball IQ. He understands angles well and uses them to create scoring opportunities. Darko is also a strong finisher at the rim, capable of adjusting mid-air. His ability to run the offense makes him a key playmaker for his team.
Keoni Sacco (6'9 Forward, 2026) – A skilled big with touch around the basket. He has great hands and finishes well in traffic. Sacco also has developing passing skills, allowing him to facilitate from the post. His rim protection makes him a vital presence on defense.
Deng Makeer (6'6 Guard, 2025) – A slashing wing with explosive athleticism. He excels at getting downhill and finishing above the rim. Makeer is also an aggressive defender, often creating turnovers with his quick hands. His improving outside shot makes him a threat from beyond the arc.
Trust Odia (6'6 Guard, 2027) – A promising young prospect with elite length for his position. He uses his wingspan to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots. Odia is also a solid rebounder, securing boards on both ends of the floor. His offensive game is developing, with flashes of scoring versatility.
Jenovie Kabey (6'5 Guard, 2026) – A two-way player with strong defensive instincts. He takes pride in locking down opponents and forcing tough shots. Kabey’s offensive skill set includes a reliable mid-range jumper. His work ethic suggests he has significant upside. Currently holds and offer from East Carolina.
Committed Prospects: Efeosa Oliogu (Butler)
Crestwood Prep
Crestwood continues to develop high-level talent, highlighted by:
Colton Crowdis (6'4 Guard, 2026) – A sharp-shooting guard with excellent range. He moves well off the ball, constantly relocating to find open looks. Crowdis has a quick release, making him a deadly threat from beyond the arc. He possesses above average playmaking skills that adds another dimension to his offensive game.
Mangok Lok Gach (6'8 Forward, 2025) – A versatile forward with great size and mobility. He is highly effective in transition and has a soft touch around the rim. Lok Gach can weave his way through traffic and play way above the rim, making him tough cover for opposing defenders. Defensively, his length allows him to alter shots and disrupt passing lanes.
Myles Dehaney (6'0 Point Guard, 2027) – A quick, shifty ball-handler with a high motor. He thrives in pick-and-roll situations, using his speed to create scoring opportunities. Dehaney is a tenacious on-ball defender, making life difficult for opposing guards. His leadership and poise at a young age set him apart from his peers.
Lana Agbalese (6'8 Forward, 2025) – A strong wing presence who excels in the open court. He has a high motor and is relentless in attacking the glass for second-chance points. Agbalese has solid post moves and can finish through contact. His versatility on the court makes him a valuable asset to Crestwood.
Sami Uraz (6'6 Guard, 2026) – A talented perimeter player with strong playmaking skills. He is effective at creating his own shot and has a smooth mid-range game. Uraz is also a capable passer who sees the floor well. His size and length give him an advantage when defending multiple positions.
Christopher Tshibola (6'3 Guard, 2025) – A tough, physical guard who thrives on both ends of the floor. He is an aggressive slasher, attacking the paint with confidence where he can score or distribute for an open shot. Tshibola plays at his own pace, often setting the tempo for the team while creating off the dribble for his teammates. His improving outside shot makes him a more complete offensive weapon.
Committed Prospects: Oliver Wilson (Denver)
Canadian Prospects in the U.S.
In addition to these powerhouse Canadian programs, several top Canadian prospects will also be representing American prep schools:
Kieran Mullen (7’0 Center, St. Thomas More) – A skilled shooting athletic forward/center with a smooth offensive game. He has excellent footwork in the post and can stretch the floor with his outside shot. Mullen is a strong rebounder who uses his athleticism to finish above the rim. His defensive versatility allows him to guard multiple positions effectively.
Ben Safran (6’1 Guard, New Hampton) – A sharpshooting guard with a high basketball IQ. He moves well without the ball, constantly creating open looks. Safran’s quick release makes him a dangerous perimeter threat. His defensive intensity adds value to his overall game.
Bennett White (6’7 Guard, The Newman School) – A versatile forward with a well-rounded offensive game. He can stretch the floor with his shooting and finish strong inside. White also has a strong rebounding presence, securing boards on both ends. His combination of size and skill makes him a tough matchup.
Warris Isaiah (6’8 Forward, Elite Futures Prep) — A very athletic forward/center from British Columbia who excels at generating second chance opportunities off the glass & finishes strong around the net. His paint rotation skills really help make him available for easy dump-offs & knows how to explode quickly for a dunk. Has solid defensive instincts and court awareness for his size.
The National Prep School Invitational is set to provide an elite stage for these Canadian prospects to showcase their talent in front of college coaches and scouts. With top-tier competition and a wealth of talent, expect these players to make a significant impact throughout the event.
