City of Palms Classic: Rising Stars, Breakout Performances, and Big-Time Talent Shine in Fort Myers
The 2025 City of Palms Classic has once again delivered what it’s known for-elite talent, high-level competition, and a platform for the next wave of basketball stars to show exactly what they’re made of. While there’s still more action to come, the early rounds in Fort Myers gave us plenty to chew on. From breakout scorers to high-motor defenders, this year’s field is stacked with players who aren’t just putting up numbers-they’re making statements.
Let’s take a closer look at the standout performers and what makes them special, starting with a guard who’s skyrocketing into national prominence.
Quentin Coleman (SG, Principia - MO) | Class of 2026 | Wake Forest Signee
Ranking: No. 91 Overall
If you're looking for a player who's rewriting their scouting report in real time, look no further than Quentin Coleman. The 6-foot-4 shooting guard out of Principia (MO) came into City of Palms with momentum-and left looking like one of the most complete guards in the 2026 class.
In two games, Coleman averaged 32.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 2.5 steals. He shot a blistering 54.1% from the field and hit 50% of his threes (8-for-16). Those are eye-popping numbers, but they only tell part of the story.
Coleman’s rise from unranked to Top 100 status has been steep, and he’s not done climbing. He’s added size, sharpened his skill set, and turned into a two-way force.
Offensively, he’s a dynamic shot-maker who finishes through contact and stretches the floor. Defensively, he brings real energy and instincts, with the ability to guard multiple positions and rebound his position well.
What separates Coleman is how fluidly he blends talent with IQ. He doesn’t force the game-he reads it, adapts, and makes the right play.
There’s still plenty of room for him to grow into his frame, which makes his upside even more intriguing. Wake Forest has a good one on the way.
Brian Mitchell Jr. (SG, Paul VI - VA) | Class of 2027
Ranking: Unranked
Paul VI is loaded with talent, but Brian Mitchell Jr. is making sure he’s not overlooked. While teammate Jordan Smith Jr. may be the headliner, Mitchell has been the engine that’s kept the offense humming. His shot-making, toughness, and confidence have stood out in back-to-back weekends.
Against Calvary Christian (FL), Mitchell poured in 23 points on 9-of-14 shooting, including 4-of-6 from deep. He added nine rebounds and three assists, showing he’s more than just a scorer-he’s a competitor who impacts the game in multiple ways.
What you love about Mitchell is how he competes. He doesn’t shy away from the moment.
He attacks the rim, embraces contact, and plays with a fearlessness that’s hard to teach. With performances like this, he’s making a strong case to crack the 2027 Top 150.
Qayden Samuels (SF, Bishop McNamara - MD) | Class of 2026
Ranking: No. 18 Overall
After a quiet opener, Qayden Samuels exploded in his second game-and we mean exploded. The 6-foot-5 wing dropped 40 points and grabbed 16 rebounds in a dominant performance against Garfield Heights (OH). He did it all: attacking the rim, pulling up in traffic, and knocking down shots from deep.
Samuels shot 15-of-23 from the field and hit 5-of-10 from three. He may not have elite burst, but his ability to manipulate defenders with his shot-making forces closeouts, opening up driving lanes where he can get to his spots.
He’s a polished scorer with a strong frame and a soft touch. When he’s in rhythm, he’s tough to contain. This was a statement game that reminded everyone why he’s one of the top wings in the country.
Caleb Gaskins (PF, Miami Signee)
Ranking: No. 24 Overall
In one of the marquee matchups of the tournament, Caleb Gaskins went toe-to-toe with five-star big man Christian Collins-and stole the show. Gaskins led his team to a 73-50 win with a 30-point performance that showcased his full offensive arsenal.
He shot an ultra-efficient 14-of-18 from the field and added seven rebounds. Gaskins did it all-smooth jumpers, powerful finishes, and smart cuts. He’s a matchup nightmare with his blend of size, strength, athleticism, and touch.
When Gaskins is locked in like this, he’s nearly impossible to guard. He doesn’t just play big-he plays smart, and that’s what makes him so dangerous.
Abdou Toure (PF, Arkansas Signee)
Ranking: No. 37 Overall
Abdou Toure has always had the physical tools-length, bounce, and motor. But now, the offensive skill set is starting to catch up. Against Olympia (FL), he put it all together in a monster 41-point, 8-rebound performance.
Toure shot 16-of-20 from the field and even stepped out to hit a pair of threes off the bounce. That’s the kind of development scouts have been waiting to see. His slashing and above-the-rim play are still his calling cards, but now he’s flashing a jumper that makes him even more dangerous.
What stood out most was his efficiency and control. He played within the flow of the offense but still imposed his will. If this version of Toure is here to stay, Arkansas fans should be very excited.
DJ Okoth (SF, Bartlett - TN) | Class of 2028
Ranking: No. 15 Overall
DJ Okoth may not have had the flashiest stat line, but make no mistake-he made a big impression in Fort Myers. The 6-foot-6 sophomore forward brings a rare mix of size, athleticism, and motor that shows up all over the floor.
In his first two games, Okoth averaged 13.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.5 steals. But it’s the little things-contesting shots, diving for loose balls, crashing the glass-that define his game right now.
He plays with a maturity beyond his years. He embraces contact, defends multiple positions, and brings energy every possession.
His offensive game is still developing, but the foundation is there. Okoth is a name to watch in the 2028 class-not just because of his talent, but because of how he competes.
Final Takeaway
The City of Palms Classic continues to be one of the premier stages for high school basketball’s elite, and this year’s edition has been no different. From rising juniors to future college stars, the gym in Fort Myers has been filled with players who are ready to take the next step-and in some cases, leap several.
Whether it’s Quentin Coleman’s breakout scoring, Caleb Gaskins’ mismatch dominance, or the emergence of young talents like Brian Mitchell Jr. and DJ Okoth, this year’s tournament has delivered a clear message: the future of basketball is in very good hands.