Rising Kings 16U Crowned Champions of the 2025 Watson Basketball Classic

The Rising Kings 16U squad etched their names in program history this past weekend, capturing the 2025 Watson Basketball Classic Championship in thrilling fashion. Their journey to the title was defined by grit, resilience, and the heart of champions.

Rising Kings Regular Season Dominance

The Kings set the tone early, finishing the Watson Classic regular season with a 4-1 record, good enough to secure 1st place overall and a first-round bye in the playoffs. Their consistent effort on both ends of the floor gave them momentum heading into the postseason, where the stakes were higher and the spotlight brighter.

But the season was about more than just wins, iI t was about leadership. Guiding this group every step of the way, Coach Chip earned the prestigious Regular Season Coach of the Year Award. The honor reflects not only his tactical brilliance on the sidelines but also his ability to develop players, instill discipline, and build a culture of resilience. Under his direction, the Kings played with unity, intensity, and belief, laying the foundation for their championship

Semi-Final Statement

In the semifinals, the Rising Kings squared off against CSA Elite and wasted no time making a statement. Behind suffocating defense and balanced scoring, the Kings ran away with a commanding 21-point victory. Oscar Martinez led the charge with 13 points, showcasing his ability to spark runs and anchor the team when it mattered most.

Championship Heartbreak Turned Triumph

The title game against powerhouse PD Nation will go down as one of the most memorable moments in Rising Kings history. For much of the contest, the Kings trailed, finding themselves down by 13 points with just 2 minutes left on the clock. But champions are defined by how they respond when their backs are against the wall. The Kings dug deep, turned up their defensive pressure, and executed flawlessly on offense. In a furious closing stretch, they stormed back and completed the comeback of the tournament, pulling out a 2-point victory to claim the championship.

Eric Bush Jr: MVP Performance

None of it would have been possible without the steady leadership and clutch play of Eric Bush Jr., who was named Tournament MVP. Bush’s poise, scoring, and ability to rally his teammates sparked the late-game surge and sealed the Kings’ championship run.

A Legacy of Resilience

The Rising Kings 16U team proved that no deficit is too large and no challenge too great when you play with heart, unity, and belief. Their Watson Classic title is more than just a trophy, it’s a testament to their hard work, their trust in each other, and their never-quit mentality.

The Kings are champions today, but their journey continues. If this tournament is any sign of what’s ahead, the future is shining bright for the Rising Kings program.

With Coach Chip leading the way as Coach of the Year, Eric Bush Jr. rising as Tournament MVP, and a championship banner now hanging in their legacy, the Kings have set a new bar for excellence. The future is shining bright for the Rising Kings program.