Colorado Springs, Colo.–The emergence of Blue Star 30 has added a new wrinkle to the fabric of this year’s USA basketball U16 trials . With 12 players from last year’s inaugural group in attendance (Along with five more slated for this year’s roster) it is hard not notice the level of talent they bring to the gym. A main “theme” founder Mike Flynn wanted to emphasize was preparing this group of young players for international play. Along the way they’ve established a chemistry and kinship that will serve as a foundation for building a cohesive competitive team.
No matter the level of skill or varsity/club basketball success nothing can prepare players for the U.S.A. basketball trials. Over the years, we have seen our share of current college stars struggle with everything from the Colorado Springs altitude to the style of play.
Kylie Watson (Mainland, NJ), a 6-3 interior prospect, said, “It was definitely comforting to know some people, having played with some of the best girls in my class.
“When I walked into the gym I was nervous but when I saw 11 other BS30 players felt comfortable because we had been prepared for this by the training we received,” explained 6-4 forward Natalija Marshall (Forest Hills, NY).
In terms being prepared to represent the United States internationally, 5-10 guard Aziz Fudd (Arlington, Va.) was able to put what she learned on a BS30 trip to play in Canada to good use.
“I knew that I wanted to try out for the U.S.A. team but I was scared because of the different rules but after the experience in Canada I was confident adjusting my game”.
“All the traveling we have done together has definitely translated to the court, we trust each other and we look to pass to each other”, added Marshall”. “Our Blue Star training sessions were set up to take us out of our comfort zone”.
While many of the BS30 players were on the invitee list, they still have to compete at a high level to make it through the cuts just like the other trials participants. With only 12 spots available the likely hood of multiple BS30 players making the team is still daunting since they all are in the 2020 and 2021 classes.
In observing the early sessions it was evident that the BS30 players were able to enhance the level of continuity and flow in the drills, which elevated the level of play for everyone. A veteran of last year’s U17 trials Sydney Parrish (Fishers, Ind.) quickly established herself as one of better long range shooters. While 6-3 Angel Reese ( Randallstown, Md.) showed off her ability to make plays at the rim on either side of the ball.
Current injured members 2020 Elauna Eaton(Jonesboro, Ark.) and 2021 Caroline Ducharme(Milton, Mass.) along with new members 2020 Jayla Kelly(Chesterfield, Mo.) and 2020 Deja Kelly(San Antonio, Tx.) are just a few of the BS30s who will continue to be top competitors for a spot on Team U.S.A. in the future.
