Aquinas Hoops Alumni Classic: 5 Standout Players From the Holiday Event

GRAND RAPIDS - Aquinas College was filled with high school basketball talent Saturday, featuring five thrilling games in their holiday event.

Byron Center, Clarkston, Waterford Mott, Traverse City St. Francis and Forest Hills Northern picked up key victories while battling tough opponents.

Here are standout players from the event:

Keane Hinkle, 5-11, Byron Center

He’s been the best player west of Lansing this season, and maybe east of it, too. A tremendous shooter who poured in 27 points against Lansing Catholic. He’s averaged 23.8 in the three games I’ve seen him play this season. He is also tough as nails and passionately rebounds among the trees. He’s emerging as a must-have recruit among D2 schools.

Camden Karel, 6-9, Byron Center

The Bowling Green commit keeps piling on double-doubles. This time he scored 12 points and hauled in 10 rebounds in basically only three quarters of play. He’s an active scorer who can dominate in the paint, shoot 3-pointers and score off the dribble. Byron Center has emerged as a legitimate state-title contender and Karel’s versatility is a big reason why.

Jacoby Menyweathers, 5-9, Waterford Mott

Menyweathers poured in 26 points and dazzled with some incredible court vision. He was the complete package, knocking down 3-pointers, getting to the basket and making passes most point guards dream of. He’s the real deal who could be a real steal at the next level, wherever he ends up.

Kyle Brown, 6-3, Forest Hills Northern

Brown has a tremendous 3-point shot, but he’s also developed into a dangerous combo guard who can score off the bounce. Grand Rapids colleges have to know who he is by now, and he certainly did himself a favor Saturday, leading the team in scoring and showcasing a versatile scoring profile. Still just a junior, he could be a hot name come summer.

Quinton Swanson, 6-4, Portage Northern

A junior, Swanson showcased strength and aggressiveness Saturday, consistently getting to the basket and finishing through traffic. His outside shot was a bit cold, but he still made a profound impact nailing his free throws and taking over point guard duties. Swanson is an intriguing wing with upside. It was nice to see how good he is scoring in the lane. It shows how versatile he can be now and at the next level.