The stars of tomorrow took the stage in the beautiful city of Heraklion for the first close look in a high-level competition for most of them. France repeated the performance at the U20 EuroBasket by steamrolling through opponents for an invincible win in Greece, beating Spain in the final. We were there to follow the tournament closely and these are the players that stood out in our opinion.
France
The kind of summer France has been looking for has finally arrived, winning two of the three European competitions they were involved in, completed with a dominant performance at the U16 European Championship. In a tournament dictated by guard play, 6’8 Cameron Houindo was the MVP, with a 13.9-point/7.9-rebound display, including 20 points and 11 rebounds in the final. Scored on 58% of his shots at the rim, showing consistency as a cutter and providing constant attacks on the offensive boards. Showcased an uncommon handling ability for a player of his size. His defensive versatility, including his switchability which was key for a team that relied on their defense. Next to him, Louka Letailleur got his first big appearance, providing efficiency and athleticism to France’s frontcourt. At 6’6, he was able to score off cuts and drives while also being a constant as an offensive rebounder. Aaron Towo-Nansi was a big part of France’s success as the main on-ball creator. The 2009-born youngster impresses with his handling and advantage creation in tight spaces. Finished second in assists. Mehdi Chaouad offered efficiency as a driver and projects as an interesting shooter, despite the low numbers from 3. At 6’8, his ability to either get to the paint or shoot off the catch impressed in this tournament. Achille Elouma projects as a great defender who is still developing his offensive game. His length and size were a problem for attackers on the perimeter, as he was always on the lookout for steals.
Spain
The best performance by a Spain team this summer as the Iberians got to the final of the U16 EuroBasket. The signs Javier Viguer presented were nothing short of extraordinary. The long 6’8 forward is versatile on both ends of the court and has a no-quitting attitude that helped Spain reach the title game. Was able to get his shot in every way possible, even by creating from the perimeter, although he looked much more comfortable off the ball, cutting into open spaces or finding a comfortable to space to shoot off the catch. Provided the same level of versatility as a defender, guarding outside and inside with the same ability. Marcos Zurita was a walking bucket for Spain, with impressive efficiency given the volume. Shot above 55% from two off pick and rolls, screens or closeouts. Proved he can shoot from three off his own creation or off movement/catch, which are great signs. Lucas Sanchez played as an initiator and someone that could space the floor. Shot 36% on almost 5 attempts per game, mostly off the catch. When he had the ball, his job was more to organize everyone and get his teammates involved, finishing with 4 assists per game. At 6’1, Gerard Fernandez was a difficult player to stop getting to the basket, finishing at a 61% clip inside and consistently applying pressure on opposing defenses. 6’9 Chiek Diallo put his imprint on this tournament, although there’s a lot to develop still. All his work came inside the paint, finishing at 61% there while also providing shot deterrence at the other basket. A long and slim big that offers a lot in terms of mobility and explosiveness.
Serbia
Very positive display from Serbia, finishing 3rd with the only loss coming on a hard-fought game against the champions. Andrej Bjelic was on fire throughout the whole tournament with a shooting display we rarely see at such a tender age. 37.3% from three on 8.4 attempts, shooting off the dribble, catch or coming off a screen/handoff with the same level of comfort. Was able to create off pick and rolls and some isolations and get to his spots in the mid range. One of the better young shooters in Europe and someone to keep an eye on. We can’t forget Vuk Danilovic, a player who shot with the same efficiency as Bjelic, although in lower volume. A capable 6’4 guard who played his best as a secondary option, attacking closeouts, shooting off the catch and cutting behind the defense. His Mega Basket teammate Nikola Karalic was more of a driver, using his 6’8 size to get inside with a developed handle to finish. Shot close to 43% from three on low volume, but definitely a great sign from a versatile forward. Jovan Bikic brought efficiency with his actions, shooting well inside and outside. Playing more off the ball, he was able to find open spaces with his cutting and decided quickly when he had the ball.
Greece
The hosts started at full throttle and looked like they could go for gold, but lost to Spain in the semis after losing a good advantage. Losing two in a row to end the U16 EuroBasket wasn’t how the Greeks envisioned their path going, but there were great things to take from the tournament. Chrysostomos Chatzilamprou displayed potential as a 3-level scorer, although he needs to become a bit more comfortable with his mid-range. Shot well and with high volume from three, both off the catch or after his own creation, with a high release shot. Got to the rim using decelerations and finishing away from defender, with good touch even with his weaker hand. Got to the line and proved he’s already a mature offensive player. Ilias Chaidemenos played a big part in Greece’s success as their point of attack defender, with constant pressure and aggressiveness on the ball. Had good moments running pick and rolls and getting inside as well. The man in the middle, Alexandros Skliros played a traditional center role for Greece. Finished plays and tried to be the last line of defense on the other side, with 1.3 blocks and forcing bad shots and kick outs near the basket. 6’7 Athanasios Asimenios showed much more comfort as an inside finisher despite being asked to space the floor. Good cutter with some interesting moments as a driver, with great size to finish above the rim.
Italy
A 5th overall finish after a tough start in the group phase is quite an achievement. Catapulted by the duo of Federico Cattapan and Randy Livingston Jr. (probably the most dynamic pairing in Heraklion), the Italians finished the tournament on a high note. Cattapan was terrific off the catch, with 1.31 points per possession on spot up threes. Showcased the ability to play pick and roll and try to get his shot, but his best moments came as a shooter. Next to him, Livingston was a terror for every defense with his handling and crossover quickness, with a low cneter of gravity and dribble. Provided creation to Italy’s frontcourt, getting inside but also shooting when open. Finished 4th in assists. Federico Bottelli tried to be effective as a low-touch guard. Running out in transition, getting to the basket as early and as open as possible, while providing shooting in organized sets. 6’9 Thomas Acunzo was great in his role, finishing plays on one end and trying to be the last of line of defense on the other. Best rebounder of the whole tournament, he was tireless in keeping possessions alive and finished with 10.4 rebounds per game (4.1 offensive).
Israel
A respectable 6th place finish for an Israel team that relied on their collective. Still, it was Aviv Aronov who shined the most with his incessant paint attacks. Got most of his points off pick and rolls or drives, looking to go at everyone inside. Showed his ability to pass, mostly from the top and the willingness to shoot even if the percentages weren’t there. Amitay Azriel complemented Aronov well, with both playing off of each other, even if both players were better going to the basket. With 4.4 assists, Azriel was pretty good at distributing the ball. Limited minutes for Ari Amiel, which didn’t stop him from contributing as a shot creator. Drove inside relentlessly, getting to the line at will. Shot well with low volume and tried to involve teammates. On a team lacking in size, Oren Trushkin provided some of that, despite still being a more perimeter-oriented player. Did a good job of finishing plays and trying to keep other plays alive for his team. Good driver and interesting defender with his length.
Latvia
Another team that relied a lot on their collective strengths, but one that Ricards Aizpurs as one of the biggest performers in the whole competition. The 6’6 wing was the third best scorer, using his height advantage to get better shots inside but also providing outside shooting off his own creation, with a patented step back that wrecked many defenses. Creative finisher that uses his footwork and patience to get the best shot available. A player to keep an eye on as a tall shot creator. Speaking of tall, Gunars Grinvalds used all of his 6’7 size on the defensive end as he switched to the perimeter and kept players in check. Much more of a floor spacer on offense, he has real potential as a shooter who’ll still grow some inches and isn’t afraid to shoot or put the ball on the floor and attack closeouts. Krists Ozers proved to be one of the best, most efficient drivers present in Greece. He got to the rim consistently, finishing at 73% at the rim, with 1.6 points per possession on drives. Difficult player to stop with his great use of angles and the way he can get to open spots with his footwork and patience.
Turkiye
Middle of the pack finish for a Turkish team that had in their 2009-born Omer Kutluay their biggest star, even if he only played four games. There’s no denying the ability of Kutluay as a pick and roll ball handler, using his elusive dribble to get to the paint, where he would find a finish or an open teammate with a dazzling pass. He was the top scorer playing a year up, missing the last three games. Got inside at ease, using every trick in the book with a game much more mature than his age would suggest. Finished at a 53% rate inside, with an outside shot that’s coming along. As the responsibility arose for Omer Ege Ziyaettin, so did his game. Saw much more of the ball with Kutluay sidelined and delivered as a handler in pick and rolls, making plays for himself and others. Shot 40% from three on more than 7 attempts/game, which are impressive numbers for a 16-year-old. Shot comfortably off the dribble as well as coming off screens. Standing 6’8, Anil Alyanak was one of the best rebounders at the U16 EuroBasket. Used his size and strong base to grab boards on both sides. Versatile offensive player, did a little bit of everything for his team, fitting any role necessary. Better inside finisher than outside.
Lithuania
Lithuania wasn’t able to replicate the success of the past years, finishing 9th in Heraklion. Still, this is an intriguing generation, starting with big man Ignas Stombergas. At 6’9, he can dominate inside, while also being great screener and roller. Understands passing angles and where to position himself for a better shot. He was second in rebounds and the blocks leader, as his anticipation and reading of plays on defense provided a great advantage for him. Spot up shooter and occasional ball handler Emilis Zibuda struggled with efficiency and consistency, but his highs were certainly eye-opening. Confident shooter who never stopped looking for his shot. Taurius Aliukonis provided that efficiency on limited touches. Finishing as a cutter or as a roller, he went 71% at the rim as a 6’8 forward. Next to them, assists-leader Emilis Prekevicius was able to feed them maturely. He didn’t look much for his shot and wasn’t efficient when he did, providing more points as a spot up shooter, but he always tried to get everyone involved. Good pick and roll player, he found rollers and shooters alike. Finished with 5.4 assists per contest.
Germany
Despite great anticipation, Germany ended up in 10th place, after a disappointing group stage and consequent elimination in the round of 16. Guided by 2009-born Fabian Kayser, who looked the part as a shot creator despite some comprehensible struggles with efficiency. His combo of size – 6’6 – and handling ability is unmatched at his age, as he can find ways to the basket every time. Had some troubles once he got there on which finish to go to and how to win fouls, but he was always able to find his way inside. The shot is coming along but far from ideal at the moment, but the ability to beat an opponent on isolation or play pick and roll is intriguing. Jamie Edoka impressed with his inside finishing. Strong frame, with 59% at the rim on high volume. Capable of withstanding contact and finish through it. The outside shot has to start showing up, as defenses were starting to take away his driving. For Anton Kemmer, the shot is usually there but it wasn’t in Heraklion. He was a great play finisher on cuts and on putbacks, with 3.3 offensive rebounds/game, but he didn’t shoot well and that’s usually his best weapon. Really liked what I saw from Lars Danziger, a primary ball handler whose assists number don’t reflect his impact. Driving with purpose, he found his spots and tried to get teammates involved, but Germany struggled as a whole with their shooting efficiency. The court vision is definitely there. Lukas Klein was one of the most anticipated names, standing 7’0. But despite some good moments, he didn’t perform to his standards. Struggled with consistency in his finishing, which made him lose a ton of playing time later in the tournament. He always provided rim protection and stepped out to the perimeter to shoot at times, but his development will still take a bit.
Finland, Slovenia and Georgia
Solid showing for Finland, with Reino Saivosalmi in focus. A player that tried to speed up the game and consistently find easy scores in transition. When he couldn’t, he proved to be a relentless driver trying to find ways to score or assist a teammate. Ended up 6th in scoring and 11th in assists, which proves his importance to Finland’s offense. Extremely efficient from two at 66.7%, Benjamin Passila kept up with Saivosalmi in running the floor. Against set defenses, he was mostly a spot up shooter, lacking that same accuracy but showing good signs. 6’10 Amani Haruna was a great finisher as a roller and a tremendous rebounder, finishing 4th in that category. Great size and mobility, had 2.1 blocks per game as an athletic big.
Stefan Joksimovic was a ray of sunshine on an other way disappointing performance from Slovenia. Played well as a ball handler, someone with the ability to go and create a shot inside and outside, especially in secondary actions. 50% on 3.4 attempts per game from three, shining mostly after the catch, but with some potential off the dribble. Igor Stjepanovic tried to be a stabilizer for Slovenia, a player to involve teammates and find relief points. Was really good off pick and rolls, earning just enough space to get inside. Was consistent from start to finish. Jusuf Karisik provided hustle and good off-ball scoring. At 6’8, he had to compensate some size shortcomings with a better use of his body and trying to complement Slovenia’s ball handlers, and that’s what he did.
Georgia escaped relegation on the last day with a convincing win over Poland. Mate Khatiashvili played a key role for Georgia as the only player in the tournament in the top 15 in scoring, rebounding and assists. A huge offensive load didn’t stop him from shooting 39.1% from three while also reaching 4.7 assists and being a constant paint attacker. The 6’4 guard will definitely be someone to keep an eye on. For Mate Kavlashvili, it was about staying ready while off the ball and give his team what was needed: shooting and timely rim attacks. Had a tremendous game against Croatia in the first match point to avoid relegation. Ilia Suladze brought size as a wing – 6’6 – and someone who tirelessly attacked the rim in early offense or after the catch. Much better in the first instance but a consistent tournament from him.
Poland, Bulgaria and Croatia
Gabirel Sularski wasn’t enough for Poland to avoid relegation. He had the ball in his hands every time he was on the floor. Tried to find his way inside and fed teammates, but left a bit to be desired as a shooter. At 6’5, he showed creativity and versatility with the ball. Piotr Losiak struggled with efficiency (much like his team), but tried to be serviceable whenever he got the ball, be it attacking closeouts or shooting whenever he was open.
A short stay for Bulgaria in Division A, relegated one year after. Despite having most of the ball, Martin Popov‘s best actions came as an off-ball player. Especially his 1.71 points per possession on catch and shoots. He shot the ball well from three and was mostly a victim of a lack of quality ball handling, having to do much of that work. Boyan Kyosev tried to keep his teammates involved and find ways inside, but lacked accuracy when he got to the basket. Still an insteresting outing for a combative player with some driving upside.
A summer to forget for Croatia culminating with the return of the U16 team to Division B without any wins. Josip Santro was a breath of fresh air and a bit of hope for Croatia, finishing at a 61% rate inside mostly as a roller but with some driving mixed in. Proved that he belongs in this setting, as a defender as well, where he showcased good anticipation and reads. Tomislav Vuckovic divided his offensive output playing pick and roll and shooting off the catch, with average efficiency on both. Good player that doesn’t make a lot of errors.