The Naismith High School Player of the Year award committee released their final 10 candidates, and the EYBL is well-represented.
All ten candidates have NIKE EYBL experience, with nine playing in the 2016 circuit. Trevon Duval starred for the Playaz in 2014, helping lead New Jersey's EYBL club to their first Peach Jam championship.
Wendell Carter (GA Stars & Team CP3), Gary Trent Jr, Michael Porter Jr, Trae Young and Kevin Knox all played two seasons in the NIKE EYBL (2015 & 2016).
| First | Last | HS | Position | EYBL Team | College Choice |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeAndre | Ayton | Hillcrest Prep | F | California Supreme | Arizona |
| Mo | Bamba | Westtown School | F | PSA Cardinals | Undecided |
| Brian | Bowen | La Lumiere | F | MeanStreets | Undecided |
| Wendell | Carter Jr. | Pace Academy | F | Team CP3 | Duke |
| Trevon | Duval | IMG Academy | G | NJ Playaz | Undecided |
| Kevin | Knox | Tampa Catholic | F | E1T1 United | Undecided |
| Michael | Porter Jr. | Nathan Hale | F | MOKAN Elite | Washington |
| Collin | Sexton | Pebblebrook | G | Southern Stampede | Alabama |
| Gary | Trent Jr. | Prolific Prep | G | Howard Pulley Panthers | Duke |
| Trae | Young | Norman North | G | MOKAN Elite | Undecided |