PUMA PRO16 Detroit: 5 Standouts
This past weekend, the PUMA PRO16 League rolled through Detroit, bringing together some of the top grassroots programs in the country for a high-level showcase of talent. While the event featured dozens of standout performers across multiple courts, five prospects in particular separated themselves with impactful, winning performances: Reese Alston, Evan Willis, Zion Green, Jakobi Oware, and Howard Williams.
Here’s a breakdown of how each of them made noise.
Reese Alston: Cooz Elite (TX)
Alston was one of the most consistent guards in the building, operating as a steady offensive engine for Cooz Elite. The Texas native controlled tempo, showed poise in pick-and-roll situations, and made the right reads throughout the weekend.
What stood out most was his ability to balance scoring with playmaking. Alston didn’t force shots, he picked his spots, got downhill when needed, and knocked down perimeter looks when defenses sagged. His decision-making was advanced, and he consistently put teammates in positions to succeed.
Defensively, he competed with energy, applying pressure at the point of attack and disrupting opposing guards. His all-around production made him one of the more reliable lead guards in Detroit.
Evan Willis: BTI (CA)
Evan Willis was electric.
Representing BTI out of California, Willis brought scoring punch and energy every time he stepped on the floor. His ability to create separation off the dribble and rise up into jumpers made him a tough cover all weekend.
He thrived in transition, attacked gaps aggressively, and showed confidence shooting from beyond the arc. What elevated his performance was his competitiveness, he played with an edge and embraced big moments.
Willis wasn’t just a scorer either; he made plays defensively and showed flashes as a secondary facilitator, rounding out a highly productive weekend.
Zion Green: Team ASP (PA)
Zion Green brought a physical, downhill presence that few defenders could handle.
The Pennsylvania product excelled at attacking the rim, using strength and body control to finish through contact. He consistently put pressure on the defense, collapsing it and creating opportunities for teammates.
Green’s motor stood out, he played hard on both ends, rebounded well for his position, and didn’t shy away from defensive assignments. His ability to impact the game without needing heavy shot volume made him incredibly valuable.
He was one of the more physically imposing wings in Detroit and proved he can thrive in a high-level setting.
Jakobi Oware: Team CPSA (CA)
Oware showcased one of the most intriguing skill sets of the weekend.
With great size and versatility, the CPSA standout impacted the game in multiple ways. Offensively, he stretched the floor, handled the ball in space, and finished effectively around the rim. His ability to play both inside and out created matchup problems throughout the weekend.
Defensively, Oware was just as impressive. He switched across positions, protected the rim at times, and used his length to disrupt passing lanes.
His versatility and upside were on full display, making him one of the more intriguing long-term prospects at the event.
Howard Williams: Team Hali (WI)
Howard Williams anchored Team Hali with toughness and interior presence.
The Wisconsin native dominated the paint on both ends, rebounding at a high level, protecting the rim, and finishing efficiently inside. He embraced physical play and consistently won battles in the post.
Williams also showed improved touch and awareness offensively, making quick decisions when catching the ball and finishing through contact. His energy and effort never wavered, and he set the tone for his team defensively.
In a setting full of perimeter talent, Williams made sure the value of a strong interior presence was felt.
Final Takeaways:
As the circuit continues, expect all five names to keep trending upward, they didn’t just perform, they established themselves.
Written by Alex Karamanos | April 20, 2026