Gary Trent Jr
- 2017 McDonald's All American
- 2017 Jordan Brand Classic
The NBA Playoffs tipped off with intensity and excitement over the weekend, and several Grind Session alumni were front and center in the action. From breakout performances to tough losses and sideline decisions, former stars of the Grind Session showed the impact of elite high school preparation on the game’s biggest stage.
Banchero Shines in Loss to Celtics
Paulo Banchero, the former BFL Prep standout and 2021 Grind Session finalist, led the Orlando Magic with a monster performance in Game 1 of their first-round series against the reigning champion Boston Celtics. The second-year forward dropped 36 points and hauled in 11 rebounds Sunday afternoon at TD Garden, putting his elite scoring ability and physicality on full display. Despite his efforts, the Magic fell short, losing 103–86 after being outscored 30–18 in a pivotal third quarter.