
If you’re looking for the gritty grinders who might sneak into the NBA through the side door, the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament is always a good place to start.
As HoopsHype’s Cyro Asseo de Choch described it, this year’s PIT — held April 16–19 — was a “springboard for under-the-radar grinders,” and once again, it delivered.
Among the most impressive? RJ Felton, a high-energy guard from East Carolina (and cousin of former NBA point guard Raymond Felton), who showcased deep shooting range, aggressive play-making, and the kind of edge scouts love in a late-second-round swing.
He wasn’t alone. Texas center Kadin Shedrick turned heads with his size and footwork. Arkansas big man Jonas Aidoo showed strong rim protection and interior presence. Belmont forward Jonathan Pierre displayed perimeter skills in a 6-foot-9 frame, while Butler’s Jahmyl Telfort looked like a plug-and-play wing at the next level.
None are guaranteed to be drafted, but that’s never really the point in Portsmouth. It’s about getting noticed — and now, they are.
Bottom line: The NBA Draft pool just keeps growing — and if you’re not paying attention to the names from Portsmouth, you’re already behind.
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