Indianapolis, IN — In a weekend brimming with energy, competition, and rising stars, the 14U Tennessee Impact team, led by coach and trainer JR Simmons (@jr3ssb), delivered a sensational performance at the prestigious @madehoops Midwest Mania tournament. Showcasing grit, chemistry, and next-level talent, the young squad brought home the championship in dominating fashion—solidifying their place as one of the top youth programs in the nation.
Midwest Mania, one of the most anticipated events on the grassroots basketball circuit, brought together elite teams from across the region and beyond. Held annually in Indianapolis, the tournament is renowned for its high-level competition and as a breeding ground for future high school and collegiate stars. For the Tennessee Impact 14U squad, it was more than a competition—it was a proving ground.
A Championship Journey Built on Chemistry and Coaching
From the moment the tournament tipped off, Tennessee Impact set the tone. Their aggressive, fast-paced playstyle—anchored by swarming defense and unselfish offense—caught the attention of scouts and spectators alike. What stood out most, however, was the team’s cohesion. While many teams leaned on individual stardom, Impact thrived through synergy and communication, a clear reflection of the principles instilled by head coach JR Simmons.
Simmons, known across the Southeast for his player development acumen and leadership within the @jr3ssb system, has long emphasized building strong basketball IQ alongside raw athleticism. His fingerprints were evident in every possession, from set plays to defensive rotations.
“We don’t just train hoopers—we build leaders,” Simmons said after the final buzzer. “This championship is a product of hard work, trust, and love for the game. These kids bought into the process, and now they’re seeing the results.”
Game-by-Game Breakdown: The Road to the Title
The path to the title wasn’t easy. Impact faced a gauntlet of highly-ranked teams, each bringing a unique challenge.
Game 1: Statement Victory
Impact’s tournament opener was a commanding performance. From the tip, they jumped out to an early double-digit lead and never looked back, with suffocating full-court pressure that led to a flurry of turnovers and transition buckets. Guard play was crisp, and the team’s length on the perimeter disrupted passing lanes all game.
The backcourt duo of Jaylen Monroe and Tyson “TJ” Graham dictated tempo with precision, combining for 26 points, 10 assists, and a relentless commitment on defense.
Game 2: A Gritty Test
In their second outing, Tennessee Impact faced a tough opponent out of Chicago known for physicality and half-court execution. Early foul trouble and cold shooting in the first half had Impact trailing by seven at intermission.
But in classic championship fashion, the team responded with composure. Khalil Everett, a dominant post presence, turned the tide with his rebounding and paint presence, finishing with 14 rebounds and 4 blocks. A clutch three by Rico Sanders late in the fourth sealed a dramatic comeback win, 52–50.
Game 3: Quarterfinal Fireworks
In the quarterfinals, Tennessee Impact exploded offensively. They poured in 75 points in a dazzling display of ball movement and shot-making. Five players scored in double digits, led by Zion Bradford, whose versatility was on full display. Whether slashing to the rim or knocking down pull-up jumpers, Bradford looked unstoppable.
Their defense was equally disruptive, forcing 18 turnovers. The performance earned standing ovations from coaches and scouts on the sidelines.
Semifinal: Defensive Showcase
Facing one of the top-seeded teams in the semifinal, the game was a defensive war. Tennessee Impact turned up the intensity, forcing their opponent into contested shots all game. Malik Hunter, known for his lockdown perimeter defense, neutralized the opposing star guard, holding him to just 6 points.
Offensively, Landon Reese was clutch. The lefty guard hit a pair of threes in the final two minutes to swing momentum. Tennessee Impact won 47–41, punching their ticket to the championship.
Championship Game: Sealing the Legacy
The title game featured a rematch from earlier in the season—a contest Tennessee Impact had lost by two points. With revenge on their mind, the team came out locked in.
From the outset, Impact controlled the glass, pushed the tempo, and moved the ball with purpose. Everett and Bradford dominated the paint, while Monroe and Graham sliced through the defense with sharp drives and timely passes.
Up 10 at halftime, the team never relinquished the lead. A dagger corner three from Rico Sanders with 90 seconds left ignited celebrations from the Impact bench. The final score: 61–52. Tennessee Impact were Midwest Mania champions.
Standout Performers and Team Leaders
While every player had a role in the title run, several stood out throughout the tournament:
- Jaylen Monroe (PG): The floor general. His court vision, pace control, and leadership were unmatched. Averaged 12.5 PPG and 7 assists per game.
- Khalil Everett (C): A dominant force inside. Controlled the boards and changed the game defensively. Averaged 10 rebounds and 2.5 blocks.
- Zion Bradford (SF): Mr. Versatility. Led the team in scoring with 14 PPG and added 6 rebounds per game.
- Tyson “TJ” Graham (G): Lightning quick with the ball, and a tenacious on-ball defender. Spark plug energy.
- Rico Sanders (SG): Sharpshooter with clutch gene. Hit the biggest shot of the championship game.
- Malik Hunter (G): The ultimate stopper. Took on top scorers every game and made them earn every point.
Beyond the numbers, the players showed remarkable maturity, encouraging one another and maintaining composure through adversity—a reflection of the Impact culture.
Culture of Excellence: The @jr3ssb Way
What separates Tennessee Impact from other programs is the development pipeline created by Simmons and his @jr3ssb brand. This isn’t just a team—it’s a movement. With a deep focus on fundamentals, film study, accountability, and off-the-court mentorship, Simmons and his staff have built more than winners; they’ve built a family.
“Our motto is ‘Impact Over Everything,’” Simmons said. “That means character, work ethic, respect, and effort. When you commit to that every day, the scoreboard takes care of itself.”
It’s no surprise that alumni of the program are beginning to appear on varsity rosters and Division I radars across the country. The 14U group may still be young, but they’re already carrying themselves like veterans.
Recognition and Next Steps
Tennessee Impact’s Midwest Mania triumph didn’t go unnoticed. Several national scouts praised the team’s discipline, depth, and upside.
“This is a group to watch,” said one scout affiliated with a major recruiting service. “They play together, defend like their lives depend on it, and have multiple college-level athletes already developing in their system.”
As spring and summer events continue, the team will now gear up for additional showcases, including the upcoming @madehoops Finals and The Warm-Up—two more opportunities to validate their ranking among the country’s elite.
Simmons is clear about the message to his team: “Enjoy this one tonight. Tomorrow, we work.”
Parents, Supporters, and the Impact Family
The Tennessee Impact community also deserves credit for the team’s success. Family members traveled from all over the region to support their kids, creating an electric atmosphere in the stands.
“No matter what city we’re in, you can hear our parents louder than anyone,” laughed Simmons. “They believe in these kids, and that support makes all the difference.”
From parents to trainers, to the alumni who came back to show love, the program runs deep—and it runs strong.
A Glimpse Into the Future
The win at Midwest Mania is more than just a trophy—it’s a marker of where this team is headed. With a blend of athleticism, poise, and elite coaching, this 14U Tennessee Impact team has the potential to be special for years to come.
Players like Monroe, Everett, Bradford, and Graham will soon be household names in high school gyms across the South and beyond. Their development under @jr3ssb is just beginning, but their championship mindset is already fully formed.