New World has been a staple on Adidas’ 3SSB, so I wanted to check out their 2027s at Made Hoops’ East Mania.
The talented group had their hands full with New England MHC before pulling away late for a 65-56 win.
The player that stuck out for New World was Rahiti Tinirauarii.
Tinirauarii played prep basketball in Utah before relocating East. He will attend Huntington Prep in the Fall.
In the meantime, his high basketball IQ was on full display in this game:
Pros:
Court Vision:
If there was a play that truly showcased Tinirauarii’s court vision, it happened in the first half when he was doubled just above the free-throw line. He recognized where the double came from early on and, without eye contact, hit his teammate on the opposite box for an easy basket.
In the second half, with the game still in the balance, Tinirauarii was doubled again. He recognized where the ball should be, even with the defense rotating and taking away the “first pass.”
Playing at Pace:
It is still early in the AAU season, and the energy, excitement, and tension are high. This game was no different.
Both teams were physical on defense but that didn’t bother Tinirauarii.
He never let the defense speed him. He consistently changed speeds and got to the correct angle on his defender.
Solid Mechanics:
Tinirauarii’s three-point shot looks as solid as they come. Even though on one attempt, it had a flat trajectory, you can see an above-average catch-and-shoot three-point shooter in the making.
He is a capable mid-range shooter even though there weren’t many opportunities in the mid-range, which is typical this time of year.
He has enough athleticism and anticipation to finish at the front of the rim against size.
Need To See More:
I would like to see a game in which he guards an above-average off-the-bounce player. That opportunity wasn’t there in that game.
That would give a better feel about his lateral movement and defensive footwork.
New England MHC didn’t have a threatening player in that way.
Other Notes:
Anthony Vick (New England MHC) is a legitimate three-point shooter. While many players who can make threes aren’t three-point shooters, Vick is.
He successfully got to his spots throughout the game. Even on closeouts, Vick’s mechanics don’t have any unnecessary movement, so his release is smooth and on time.
