Upperclassmen Elite Camp: Session 1 Defensive Standouts
A look at the top defensive players from Session 1 of the 270 Hoops Upperclassmen Elite Camp
By: Luke Harrington
The 270 Hoops Upperclassmen Elite Camp brought together 100 different players from around the state of Ohio, and even from Michigan and Kentucky. Coaches from 20 different college programs attended the event and checked out a handful of intriguing upperclassmen talent. Here’s a look at the top defensive players from the event.
Chisom Ibe | 2026 6’4 F Northmont
The top shot-blocker in the gym was Northmont senior Chisom Ibe, who has clearly put a lot of work into his vertical. Ibe had an uncanny ability to time his jumps to block every shot that came his way, including shots off of the glass from behind. He also played with a huge motor, being able to defend 1-5 with great footwork and ball pressure. He also had many deflections as he was very active in the passing lanes. Ibe’s defense helped lead his team to the championship game, and is a prospect small colleges should covet.
Elian Arick | 2026 6’10 C Buckeye Trail
A towering player that I had never seen in person was Buckeye Trail’s Elian Arick. The senior has an unteachable quality that made him an elite rim protector: size. Arick blocked shots with ease and affected any shot that was inside the three point line with his great length and agility. His footwork allowed him to contest shots without jumping and easily corral defensive rebounds after causing bricks and airballs by the opposition. The size and speed combination make Arick a defensive Center in Ohio, and an elite prospect overall.
Kaden Purdon | 2026 6’6 F Teays Valley
Another player with excellent size and skill is Kaden Purdon from Teays Valley. Purdon stood out immediately with his ability to hold the line against smaller players, forcing them to make ineffective passes along the perimeter. Also, his ability to alter attempts near the rim early got him going offensively, as he ran in transition and got uncontested baskets often. Purdon also did a nice job making himself clog up the gaps with extended hands and a great stance, showing his athleticism and attention to detail. Purdon is a senior forward that will continue to receive interest going into his senior year.
Mason McDermott | 2027 6’0 PG Springfield Northwestern
A small school point guard that came onto the scene is Mason McDermott from Northwestern High School in Springfield. The junior made many plays reading the defender’s eyes and shooting passing lanes to get steals. He also played with great energy and was a pest against taller defenders when he had to switch. McDermott also has great hands, and was able to snatch the ball from anyone who was loose with their handle. McDermott is a high level defender that will be at the top of the CBC.
Peyton Turner | 2027 6’3 F Dublin Coffman
A fundamentally sound kid who was a great paint protector was Dublin Coffman’s Peyton Turner. Turner did nothing flashy, but he always had two feet in the paint on defense and created a wall between himself and the basket. It’s clear that the junior has been taught great fundamentals, as he never fell for shot fakes and always stayed on his feet. He also had an excellent block from behind on a taller player, which he turned into a transition opportunity for his team. Turner is an interesting player for the Shamrocks this upcoming season.