As well to the plethora of talent this year at the 17U level, down at the 16U level there was plenty of star talent as well. In addition to a few 2024 players, it includes a couple of 2025 stars playing up. Here are the five players that were named first team NY2LA Association at the 16U level. 

Kuol Atak – 2024 – PF – 3D Empire

After a flashing his ability last season, Atak took huge strides in his game this year. The highly skilled forward had a monster spring and summer for 3D Empire. He was named top prospect at the 16U level of the association on his way to earning a couple of division one offers recently. Even at 6’8”, Atak has a great combination of skills and mobility to shine for 3D Empire all year. 

Markus Blackwell – 2025 – PG – Reach Legends

Blackwell is one of the highest upside guards on the 16U level of the association and had a tremendous season for himself. Even while playing up, Blackwell was a star throughout the season at the 16U level for Reach. He was sensational in April at the Grassroots Showcase in Louisville to help Reach to an undefeated tournament and followed that up this July getting to the elite 8 of the Best of the South and final four of the Final Chapter. 

Ty Fernholz – 2024 – SG – Wisconsin Blizzard

With his play throughout the season as well as leading the Blizzard to the 16U NY2LA Association Championship, Fernholz earned himself MVP honors. With his shot making ability, the guard put up big point totals throughout the year, including a 35-point game in their championship run. Even with his team down to six players during their championship run, he did enough to help the Blizzard get the title. 

Azavier Robinson – 2025 – G – George Hill All Indy

Even as a 2025 playing up at the 16U level, Robinson was a lock for this list. Not only was Robinson named the top defender of the 16U association but was also a dynamic scorer all season. As an incoming sophomore he has an incredibly advanced game and showed that game after game. Every game he played with tremendous energy to always be performing at a high level to have led his team and drawn plenty of college interest already. 

Braylon Roman – 2024 – PG – MidPro Academy

Roman burst onto the scene to start the association season in Indianapolis and only continued to go grow from there. As well to the first team honors, he was also voted as offensive player of the year at the 16U level. Much more than just a scorer however, Roman runs the point effectively, has good all-around skills, and knows how to play. With his play throughout the year, he recently earned his first offer from Illinois State.