High school basketball is here in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Running elite events within the state of Minnesota for over 25 years, Breakdown Sponsored by Tria Orthopedics GameFace Training, The Big Stage served as an official kick off to the high school season blending powerhouse programs and elite prospects all under one roof at Minnesota power Hopkins High School.
With 3 of the top 5 AAAA and 4 of the top 5 AAA squads in And One Films’ latest Minnesota state rankings, both the competition and atmosphere were vibrant with a sold-out crowd by the conclusion of the day. Unfortunately, a fight during the nightcap of Tartan vs Hopkins ended the event prematurely, with the remainder of the game to be completed at a later date.
However, that didn’t stop us from laying eyes on some intriguing players that are offered in the arctic north that is Minnesota. Having already examined the top performers , here are a few of the lesser known players who helped themselves at the Breakdown Big Stage Classic:
Tre Moore, 6’0, PG, Hopkins HS (MN), 2028
With Minnesota’s top point guard Jayden Moore (Tre’s older brother) out for the night, it gave the sophomore the opportunity to shine and he certainly made the most of it. The best on ball defender the event had to offer changed the tempo of the game, got to his sweet spots with mid-range jumpers, and was a confident 3-point shooter. Doubling as a D1 football prospect on the gridiron, Tre has also proven to be one of the more intriguing sophomores the state has to offer.
Dre Collins, 6’5, SF, Richfield HS (Minn.), 2027
The definition of a power wing, Dre Collins brought his football mentality to the hardwood at The Big Stage. The two-way swingman went through defenders when attacking the rim during his 29- point showing, was an outstanding cutter within Richfield’s offense, and was a willing defender to countless positions. A big-time football prospect as well, Collins will have no shortage of suitors in either sport at the collegiate level.
Jack Thelen, 7’0, C, Maple Grove HS (Minn), 2027
The biggest player in the Big Stage has continued to make big steps in the development of his game. While more of an old school center, Thelen can really pass the ball, is automatic going towards his right shoulder, and is super vocal on the defensive end. Making the move from St. Michael Albertville to Maple Grove, the 7-footer immediately makes “The Grove” a contender for a state title in Minnesota.
Lamarr Knighton, 5’10, PG, Minneapolis Washburn (Minn.), 2029
One of the better freshman guards in the state of Minnesota, Lamarr Knighton showed that he is ready to contribute right away for Minneapolis’ top city League team. The ninth grader showed off a super nice burst going to the rim as well as jumping passing lanes, can really pass the ball with either hand, and is outstanding finding shooters on opposite side of court. While it is super early in his career, Lamarr has already began showing what he can do on a national level on the 3SSB Circuit with D1 Minnesota.
Shay Jackson, 6’0, PG, Totino-Grace HS (Minn.), 2027
The epitome of a glue guy, Shay Jackson does all of the little things that you’d look for out of a role player on a state title contender. Jackson leads by example with his ability to defend on the ball, sees the game one play ahead, and brings infectious energy to the hardwood. Playing on a team loaded with D1 prospects doesn’t lead to huge numbers for everyone, but the impact that Shay brings to the table goes far beyond the box score.
Will Kirsch, 6’1, PG, Wachonia HS (Minn.), 2026
A two-sport star, Will Kirsch brought a football mentality to the hardwood at the Breakdown Big Stage. The well put together lead guard was outstanding playing through contact, used his high IQ to make a number of crafty plays, and showed a massive amount of confidence as a shooter. Having played for Howard Pulley in the EYBL, Kirsch has shown himself to college coaches already and holds a number of D-2 offers.
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