20 Greatest California AAU Basketball Teams of All Time

1) 2001 Oakland Soldiers 

Founder: Izzy Washington
Coach: Mark Olivier
Assistant Coach: Mark Andrews
Players: LeBron James (NBA), Kendrick Perkins (NBA), Leon Powe (NBA), Demarcus Nelson (NBA), Chuck Hayes (NBA), Marquis Kately (Cal), John Winston (UNLV), John Tofi (Utep), Rekalin Sims (Kentucky), Demarshay Johnson (Nevada),
Notable Tournaments: Pump-N-Run Classic, Slam-N-Jam Elite Tournament, Houston Kingwood Classic
Sponsor: Adidas

The summer of 2001 remains one of the most electric in California AAU history, and at the center of it all were the Oakland Soldiers. Coached by Mark Andrews and sponsored by Adidas, the Soldiers fielded a roster that reads like a dream: LeBron James, Kendrick Perkins, Leon Powe, Demarcus Nelson, Chuck Hayes, Marquis Kately, John Winston, John Tofi, Rekalin Sims, and Demarshay Johnson. Across tournaments like the Pump-N-Run Classic, Slam-N-Jam Elite Tournament, and Houston Kingwood Classic, the Soldiers dominated, blending size, athleticism, and court vision that left scouts and fans in awe.

Leon Powe, the 6-foot-7 junior from Oakland Tech, was a force inside. Rugged, athletic, and fearless above the rim, Powe consistently swung momentum with thunderous dunks and timely tip-ins. “Give me a lane and I’m going upstairs,” he joked, but his highlights made it no exaggeration. His partnership with LeBron James, who joined the Soldiers that summer after previously competing against them, formed one of the most intimidating combinations in the nation.

LeBron, just 16, brought a poise and court awareness rare for a player his age. Introduced to the Soldiers through a mutual friend, he had already caught national attention, but his summer with Oakland solidified his reputation. Alongside Kendrick Perkins, a dominant inside presence from Texas, the Soldiers fielded three of the nation’s top ten players, creating a roster many would later call historic.

At the Slam-N-Jam Elite Tournament in San Francisco, the Soldiers blazed through the competition. In a tense final, Powe and John Winston carried much of the early load, pulling Oakland ahead with putbacks and tip-ins. Powe led all scorers with 24 points, while LeBron added 18 quietly, influencing every play. “We’ve got 10 of the best ballplayers in the country,” coach Andrews remarked. “Sometimes it’s a little hard to find the best five in any game. But we win with scoring by committee and by playing tough defense.”

That same spring, an unpublicized two-game showcase at the University of San Francisco would change the trajectory of LeBron James’ career. Adidas representatives, including Chris Rivers, flew in along with Sonny Vaccaro, who had initially resisted traveling to Akron. LeBron was gifted a personalized Adidas shoe reading “LBJ #23,” likely the first such custom for a high school player. The next day, James faced Vaccaro in the stands, and after a slow first half, he took control. His combination of athleticism, vision, and scoring left spectators and recruiters stunned, proving that the hype surrounding him was real.

At the Pumps’ Spring Premiere Tournament at Cal State Dominguez Hills, the Soldiers squared off against a loaded Pump N Run squad in a game already being called a classic. The first half was a back-and-forth showcase of skill, ending in a tie. Then LeBron took over. Scoring at will, dunking over future collegiate stars, and orchestrating plays with surgical precision, he carried Oakland to a 20-point victory, including a jaw-dropping free throw line dunk that cemented his status as a phenomenon. “I just want to go out and play my game,” James said. “But when a lot of people come out to watch you and your team play, you gotta give them some kind of show.”

The Soldiers capped their summer at the Houston Kingwood Classic in 2002, fielding one of the greatest AAU lineups of all time. Opening against the Atlanta Celtics, a team stacked with Dwight Howard, Josh Smith, Randolph Morris, and Javaris Crittenden, Oakland won by 40 points, with LeBron dropping 40+. Powe and James’ chemistry was on full display, and Kendrick Perkins’ dominance inside made the Soldiers nearly unbeatable. Even in a loss to D.C. Assault, the summer had already cemented their legacy.

The 2001-2002 Oakland Soldiers rewrote the standard for youth basketball excellence. With a roster brimming with future NBA talent, a coach who maximized every player’s potential, and the breakout of a 16-year-old LeBron James, that summer is still remembered as one of the most compelling and influential in AAU history.

2) 2006 Southern California All-Stars

Coach: Reggie Theus
Director: Pat Barrett
Players: Kevin Love (NBA), Brandon Jennings (NBA), Renardo Sidney (Mississippi State), Taylor King (Duke, Nova), Daniel Hackett (USC), Malik Story (USC)
Notable Tournaments: Reebok Big Time Tournament, Las Vegas Easter Classic, Tournament of Champions (NC), Houston Kingwood Classic
Sponsor: Reebok

It was back in 2006 when Brandon Jennings, then a rising high school junior, was asked about his AAU summer team: “In the next four years, all of these guys will be pros,” he said. He was mostly right. The players he spoke of comprised the core of the Southern California All-Stars, better known as the SoCal All-Stars. That summer, they went on an incredible run, ripping through the AAU circuit undefeated in 47 games. In the annals of summer basketball, SoCal put itself in the argument next to the 2003 Atlanta Celtics (Dwight Howard, Josh Smith, Randolph Morris) and the 2005 Speice Indy Heat (Greg Oden) as teams considered the greatest of all-time. To many, SoCal holds the crown as No. 1.

The roster was stacked with high school stars who would go on to play at the highest levels. Senior center Kevin Love dominated inside, eventually becoming an NBA All-Star. Senior wing Daniel Hackett, from St. John Bosco in Bellflower, Calif., went on to play professionally in Italy. Sophomore forward Renardo Sidney, an All-American at Fairfax High in Los Angeles, was projected to be an NBA draft pick whenever he left Mississippi State. Junior wing Malik Story graduated from Oak Hill Academy and later started at the University of Nevada. Senior sharpshooter Taylor King, a Mater Dei legend, played for Duke, Villanova, and later Concordia University in California. Along with Jennings, who played at Dominguez High in L.A., transferred to Oak Hill, spent a year professionally in Italy, and then entered the NBA. They formed the deepest collection of teen talent ever assembled on one AAU team.

King was a high school star, but he sacrificed his game for SoCal. Hackett, who averaged near a triple-double at St. John Bosco, often came off the bench. Malik Story knew how to play on stacked teams, having teamed with Renardo Sidney and future NBA Lottery pick James Harden at Artesia High. “Basically, you just have to put your ego aside, put yourself aside, and do what you have to do to win games,” Story said. “It’s a lot more individual (in AAU play), with guys trying to get scholarships and stuff, but it wasn’t like that with us.”

“Most AAU teams are put together with guys that are stars on their own respective high school teams,” said assistant coach Kelly Williams. “It’s less structure, just rip-and-run and see who can score more points. That wasn’t our philosophy. The thing with having so much talent is we had a lot of options. We were able to adjust to whatever teams were trying to do.”

The team’s summer began with dominant performances in multiple tournaments. They won the Las Vegas Easter Classic, where Brandon Jennings scored 28 points in SoCal's 65-54 win over Branch West Reebok. That summer, they defeated Derrick Rose’s Mean Streets, O.J. Mayo’s D-1 Greyhounds, and Tyreke Evans’ Team Final. In Vegas, SoCal captured the 2006 Reebok Big Time Tournament, one of the crown jewels of the AAU system. Against a D-1 Greyhounds squad led by O.J. Mayo in front of more than 5,000 spectators, SoCal jumped to a 20-6 lead and cruised to an 84-53 victory. Jennings, defending Mayo, held the future pro to just 10 points while forcing seven turnovers.

The Bob Gibbons Tournament of Champions in Chapel Hill, N.C., showed the full spectrum of SoCal’s dominance. They routed the always-tough New Jersey Playaz by 20 points in the final. “We knew we were the best, we won every game, and we stuck together,” Love said. “I’d say the biggest thing for us was just coming out and playing as a team. We had the best chemistry out of any AAU team.”

Even with all their success, the summer wasn’t without its challenges. Against Mayo’s Greyhounds in Oregon, they barely squeaked out a win, and they survived a 17-point halftime deficit to beat Alabama’s SW Elite squad by a single point. Earlier, at Big Time, they edged Chicago’s Mean Streets Express by six points, holding future pros Derrick Rose and Eric Gordon in check. “They just have a loaded team,” Gordon said. “Everybody is good … all 10 of their ballplayers are good. They’re loaded from the starting five to the five coming off the bench. Just from every aspect, they were off the charts.”

Understandably, the sheer dominance led to SoCal gaining a villain-like status. “Everyone wanted us to lose,” Story said. “Especially at the Kingwood tournament in Houston and Gibbons T.O.C. in North Carolina. Toward the end of the summer, we realized people didn’t want us to win.”

They lost only two games in 2006, and both came without Kevin Love. Otherwise, they were unstoppable. Brandon Jennings and Kevin Love dominated every court they stepped on, while Renardo Sidney complimented Love inside. Taylor King lit up the outside, Hackett played big minutes at the off guard spot, and Story provided depth off the bench.

“That summer was fun,” Jennings reflected. “Everybody was after you every game. A lot of people came to see us play. And it was fun to play with Kevin, Taylor, Malik, Daniel and Renardo.”

SoCal’s 2006 team remains one of the greatest AAU squads in history, a team that could have challenged the legendary Dunbar squad of Baltimore if they had been an actual high school team. Their mix of talent, chemistry, and character set a standard that few have ever matched.

3) 1986-1987 Nike ARC Mid Valley M Squad

Coach: Rich Villian
Players: Chris Mills (NBA), Darrick Martin (NBA), Don McLean (NBA), Sean Rooks (NBA) - Sean Higgins (NBA), Leroy Ellis (NBA), Dwyane Schintzius (NBA), Dwayne Bryant (Georgetown), Stevie Thompson (Syracuse), James Moses (Iowa), Kevin Franklin (Nevada), Mark Georgeson (Arizona), Doug Meekins (Washington)
Sponsor: Nike

The original premier AAU team was assembled by American Roundball Corporation boss Rich Villian. In 1986, Rich Boss compiled the “M Squad,” featuring Chris Mills, Don MacLean, Sean Rooks, Sean Higgins and Darrick Martin, all of whom made it to the NBA. Sponsored by Nike, the ARC’s Mid Valley “M” Squad was among the most loaded teams to grace California. If the 5 future NBA players didn’t scare you the team also had 5 other players that played at a high major division 1 university.

During the summer of 86 and 87 they only lost 2 games, capturing the AAU national championship. They faced off with a bevy of talent including the legendary New York Gauchos featuring Loyd Daniels and Rod Strickland. “Rich treated it as a team, not a collection of really good players,” says Don McLean, who played nine NBA seasons. “I think that’s why we won so much - we played together and we played to win.”

4) 2018 Compton Magic

Coach:Etop Uma
Players: Evan Mobley (NBA), Isiah Mobley (NBA), Onyeka Okongwu (NBA), Jaylen Clark (NBA), Johnny Juzang (NBA), Jaime Jacquez (NBA), Isiah Hill (Fresno State) Jarrod Lucas (Oregon State)
Notable Tournaments: Adidas Gauntlet, Adidas Summer Championship, The Ultimate Summer Showdown
Sponsor: Adidas

Probably the most slept on team on the list. They featured 6 future NBA draft picks. They not only won the Adidas Gauntlet and Adidas Summer Championship but they also beat the winner of the Nike EBYL in the Ultimate Summer Showdown. The game was dubbed as a mythical national championship of sorts, Team Takeover was ranked No. 1 and Compton Magic No. 2 in the country by Prep Hoops. The Compton Magic basketball team would go on to defeat Team Takeover 81-79 in overtime contest at Bishop Gorman. At the end of the summer, the Magic compiled a 46-2 record was rated the No. 1 team in the nation by websites such as Prep Hoops and Prep Circuit.

The players on this team that stood out were senior forward Onyeka Okongwu, a USC commit (No. 15 by ESPN), forward Isaiah Mobley (No. 14 by ESPN), forward Jaime Jacquez, Jr., a UCLA commit (No. 79 by ESPN) and juniors such as forward Jaylen Clark (UCLA), forward Johnny Juzang (No. 22 by ESPN) and center Evan Mobley, who was rated as the No. 1 player nationally in the Class of 2020. With the likes of Okongwu and the Mobley brothers, this team had one of the best front lines in circuit history.

5) 2006 Pump n Run Elite (50-1)

Coach: Jim Harrick
Director: Dana Pump and David Pump
Players: James Harden (NBA), Austin Daye (NBA), Larry Drew (UNC), Elston Turner (Texas A & M), Jamelle Horne (Arizona) Jerime Anderson (UCLA), Alex Jacobson (Arizona), Renaldo Woolridge (Tennesse), Kenton Walker (Creighton), Omondi Amoke
Notable Wins: Arizona Dessert Classic, Adidas Super 64, Best of Summer
Sponsor: Adidas

6) 2012 Oakland Soldiers

Founder: Izzy Washington
Coach: Mark Olivier
Assistant Coach: Mark Andrews
Players: Aaron Gordon (NBA), Stanley Johnson (NBA), Jabari Bird (NBA),  Shaqquan Aaron (Louisville), Trevor Dunbar (Washington State), Kendall Smith (UNLV)
Sponsor: Nike
Notable Tournaments: Nike Peach Jam, Nike EBYL

Won the 2012 Nike Peach Jam behind the play of big 3 Gordon, Bird and Johnson. Went 6-3 in first 9 EBYL games but went 8-0 in Peach Jam. A long and athletic defensive team beat Nerlens Noel’s BABC, Andrew Wiggin’s CIA Bounce, Theo Pinson’s CP3 All-Stars and Julius Randle’s Texas Titans. Most of the Soldiers losses in 2012 came with leader Aaron Gordon out of the lineup.

Gordon went on to be a verteran NBA starter and a key contributer to the Denver Nuggets Championship team. Stanley Johnson was a fellow top 10 recruting in 2013. Stanley went on to be a lottery pick with the Pistons and played a few season in the NBA. Jabari Bird was also a McDonalds All-American who decided to attened the local University of California. Guard duties were shared by Trevor Dunbar and Kendall Smith both future Division-1 recruits. Swingman Shaqquan Aaron rounded out the scoring punch for Oakland.

7) 2000 SoCal All-Stars

Director: Pat Barrett
Players: Tyson Chandler (NBA), Jamal Sampson (NBA), Josh Childress (NBA), Cedric Bozeman (UCLA), Isaiah Fox (Arizona), DeAngelo Collins (All-American)
Notable Tournaments: Boo Williams Invitational, Blue Grass Classic, National AAU Championship (FL)
Sponsor: Nike

Although the 2000 Michigan Mustangs might have had the most talent in the nation, the Southern Cal All-Stars could have made a strong case for being the No. 1 team in the nation. The team featured Southern California’s Fab Four with 7-footer Tyson Chandler of Dominguez High (Compton, Calif.), Mater Dei’s Jamal Sampson, the 7-foot-1 power forward, future UCLA commit Cedric Bozeman, as well as 6-foot-6 Josh Childress of Mayfair High. They ended up having 4 McDonald's All-Americans as DeAngelo Collins of Inglewood High occasionally played with the team.

Southern Cal played well at the Boo Williams Spring Invitational as well as the Blue Grass Classic in Kentucky. They took home the mythical National AAU Championship in Orlando at the end of summer.

8) 2005 EBO/EA Sports All-Stars

Director: Darren Matsubara
Players: Brook Lopez (NBA), Robin Lopez (NBA), Quincy Pondexter (NBA), Derek Jasper (Kentucky), Trevon Willis (UNLV), Tim Shelton (SDSU), Joe Harden (Notre Dame)
Notable Wins: Arizona Dessert Classic, Adidas Super 64, Adidas Showtime Tournament, Adidas Derby Festival Classic, Las Vegas Prep Showdown
Sponsor: Adidas, EA Sports

This Fresno based team was led by future NBA big men Brook and Robin Lopez, the team possessed unreal size. “Our point guard is 6-foot-6, our two is 6-foot-3, our three is 6-foot-8, and then we have two 7-footers, plus we have a 7-footer coming off the bench, too." said head coach Darren Matsubara. Besides the 7 foot twins, this team had plenty of firepower with future NBA player Quincy Pondexter and blue chip recruits Trevon Willis and Derek Jasper.

They won the 2005 Adidas Showtime Tournament, they won the Adidas Super 64 Tournament in Las Vegas, they won the 34th annual Adidas Derby Festival Basketball Classic in Louisville, they even won the Las Vegas Prep Showdown title with a victory over Nike’s Friends of Hoop Seattle. The first ever Las Vegas Prep Showdown title with a 81-70 nationally televised victory over Nike’s Friends of Hoop Seattle. Trevon Willis finished with a team-high 27 points and five assists. Brook Lopez scored 13 points but was handcuffed defensively because of fouls. But Robin was overpowering in the paint, with a game-high 17 rebounds and seven blocks.

2005 was the second year in a year, EBO won the Adidas Super 64 tournament. They beat a loaded Philly MJC at the Cox Pavilion on the campus of UNLV. Willis went off in the first half for 20 of EBO's 34 points. Derrick Jasper was named as the tournament MVP. 2004 saw EBO win the same tournament as they beat the vaunted Atlanta Celtics led by MVP Brook Lopez.

9) 1996 Team California

Players: Baron Davis (NBA), Tayshaun Prince (NBA), Jarron Collins (NBA), Jason Collins (NBA) Jason Kapono (NBA)
Sponsor: Nike

The summer of 1996 belonged to Team California, a squad brimming with talent destined for the NBA. Coached under Nike’s banner, the roster featured a collection of future stars: Baron Davis, Tayshaun Prince, Jarron Collins, Jason Collins, and Jason Kapono. Each player brought a unique skill set, creating one of the most balanced and dynamic lineups in AAU history.

Baron Davis, the country’s top-ranked point guard, was the undisputed leader. His senior season at Crossroads had already turned heads, with averages of 26.5 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.3 assists, 5.8 steals, and 2.1 blocks per game. But in the AAU summer circuit, Davis elevated his game even further. Quick, crafty, and fearless, he controlled the floor like a seasoned veteran, pushing tempo, finding open teammates, and attacking defenses with relentless energy.

Tayshaun Prince, the athletic swingman, provided both perimeter scoring and defensive versatility, while the Collins twins, Jarron and Jason, anchored the middle with size, rebounding, and shot-blocking presence. Jason Kapono stretched defenses with his sharpshooting from beyond the arc, forcing opponents to respect the floor at all times. Together, the starting five had balance, length, and skill in every position.

One of their signature victories came against a Riverside Church team, widely regarded as one of the greatest AAU squads of all time. Team California executed with poise and precision, Davis orchestrating the offense while Prince, Kapono, and the Collins twins dominated both ends of the court. Their combination of high-IQ play, athleticism, and star power proved overwhelming, and by the final buzzer, Team California had emerged victorious, leaving no doubt about their place among the elite AAU teams of the era.

10) 1997 EBO/EA Sports All-Stars

Director: Darren Matsubara
Players: DeShawn Stevenson (NBA), Matt Barnes (NBA), Carlos Boozer (NBA), Chris Jefferies (NBA), Ray Young (UCLA), Myron Epps (San Diego State), Demetrius Porter (Fresno State)
Notable Tournaments: Adidas Big Time, Best of Summer, 
Sponsor: Adidas, EA Sports

The 1997 EBO/EA Sports All-Stars were a Northern California powerhouse, a squad stacked with future NBA talent and guided by Darren Matsubara. The roster featured DeShawn Stevenson, whose athleticism and scoring potential had scouts comparing him to Kobe Bryant; Carlos Boozer, the hulking Alaskan big man with a forceful inside game; Matt Barnes and Ray Young, both UCLA-bound forwards; Chris Jefferies, a Fresno product; and versatile contributors like Myron Epps and Demetrius Porter. Sponsored by Adidas and EA Sports, the team brought balance, skill, and depth to every court they stepped on.

At the Adidas Big Time Tournament, Stevenson and Boozer led the charge, averaging 20.2 and 18.2 points per game, respectively. Barnes’ 6’8” frame allowed him to dominate inside while still offering floor spacing, and the squad’s combination of athletic wings and reliable post players made them a tough matchup for any team. EBO’s supporting cast was equally important; Jefferies and Ray Young provided scoring punch and defensive versatility, rounding out a roster that could compete at every level.

The team’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. In Fresno, EBO faced the Inland squad and suffered a hard-fought loss, a reminder that even the most talented teams could be tested. After the game, Mats, Boozer, and many of the EBO players left early, along with other teams, likely seeking to beat the traffic or catch flights in preparation for the Las Vegas Grand Finale starting July 27. Friends of Hoop (FOH), another competitive Northern California program, had mixed attendance, FOH I didn’t show for their matchup against Valentino’s, while FOH IV did play, narrowly losing to a very young Mira Costa team coached by Glen Marks.

Despite these bumps, EBO’s combination of talent, resilience, and basketball IQ made them a team to watch. Stevenson’s scoring bursts, Boozer’s inside dominance, and the balance from Barnes, Young, and Jefferies created a squad capable of matching up with any elite AAU team. Though their run included losses and logistical hurdles, the 1997 EBO/EA Sports All-Stars cemented their reputation as one of Northern California’s most talented and memorable teams.

11) 2024 Oakland Soidlers

Founder: Izzy Washington
Coach: Marshall Collins
Players: Aj Dybantsa (NBA), Tyran Stokes (NBA), Semetri Carr (Cal), Gavin Sykes (Long Beach), Nes Emeneke (UC Irvine), Mark Lavrenov (Sac State), Chris Nwuli (Rutgers), Douglas Langford (San Jose), Angelino Mark (Rugers)
Notable Tournaments: Nike Peach Jam, Nike EBYL
Sponsor: Nike

The 2024 Oakland Soldiers were one of the most hyped AAU teams in recent memory. With Nike sponsorship and a roster stacked with future stars, they had both the talent and the stage to dominate the circuit. The team featured AJ Dybantsa, the number one ranked senior in the nation, and Tyran Stokes, the number one ranked junior. Both are projected NBA lottery picks when eligible. Alongside them were high-level Division I recruits including Semetri Carr (Cal), Gavin Sykes (Long Beach State), Nes Emeneke (UC Irvine), Mark Lavrenov (Sacramento State), Chris Nwuli (Rutgers), Douglas Langford (San Jose State), and Angelino Mark (Rutgers).

The Soldiers rolled through the Nike EYBL regular season and stormed into the Peach Jam with momentum. Having two top-ranked recruits on the same roster gave them an unmatched advantage. Dybantsa averaged 23.1 points per game at Peach Jam while Stokes put up 20.6 points per game. The duo set the tone for every contest, overwhelming opponents with scoring and athleticism.

At Peach Jam the Soldiers looked like the clear favorite. They reached the championship game where they faced Nightrydas Elite, led by the highly touted Boozer twins. The final was a battle from start to finish. The Soldiers stayed close throughout but could not close the gap in the final minutes as Nightrydas pulled away for a 71–62 victory. Despite falling short in the title game, this Soldiers squad will be remembered as one of the most talented groups in California AAU history, carrying two number one ranked players at the same time.

Director: Dana Pump and David Pump
Players: Jrue Holiday (NBA), Jerime Anderson (UCLA), Larry Drew (UNC), Travis Wear (UNC), David Wear (UNC), Jeff Withey (Kansas), Reeves Nelson (UCLA)
Notable Tournaments: Adidas Super 64 (2nd Place), Arizona Dessert Classic
Sponsor: Adidas

The 2007 Pump-N-Run Elite roster was stacked with future high-major players and had the kind of balance most AAU programs could only dream of. The team was directed by Dana and David Pump, coached by Jim Harrick, and headlined by Campbell Hall guard Jrue Holiday, who was already regarded as one of the best all-around guards in the country. Alongside him was Jerime Anderson, another UCLA commit who would eventually become his college teammate. At forward, Pump-N-Run had the highly touted Wear twins, David and Travis, who were both North Carolina commits, as well as 6-foot-2 point guard Larry Drew Jr., who was also headed to Chapel Hill. Jeff Withey, a skilled 7-footer who went on to star at Kansas, added a true interior presence. Reeves Nelson, Tyler Honeycutt, and Greg Smith also suited up for the program, giving them an absurd collection of talent that mixed size, guard play, and depth.

The sheer concentration of UCLA and North Carolina commits made Pump-N-Run unique. Three players were headed to UCLA and three others to UNC, a pipeline that had coaches in Westwood and Chapel Hill heavily invested in nearly every tournament they entered. Anderson even recalled how Ben Howland was constantly at their games, tracking his future backcourt. “Coach Howland was at all my games and told me I made him proud,” Anderson said. “That meant everything to me. He’s taking a chance on me, and I don’t want to let him down.”

Pump-N-Run traveled the Adidas circuit and quickly established themselves as one of the premier teams in the nation. In Las Vegas, they advanced deep into the Adidas Super 64. One of the best games of the summer came in the quarterfinals when they faced the New Jersey Playaz at UNLV’s Cox Pavilion. The Playaz pulled off a dramatic 90-88 overtime win, led by Rutgers commit Mike Rosario who exploded for 30 points. His backcourt partner Travon Woodall, a Pitt recruit and St. Anthony’s guard, added 16 points and seven assists. Pump-N-Run was carried by their backcourt duo as well, with Holiday scoring 18 points and Anderson adding 13. The Wear twins impressed with their versatility, while Larry Drew showed flashes of what he would bring to UNC by running the team and hitting shots from outside.

Holiday and Anderson were the anchors in the backcourt all summer, and their chemistry gave the program a steady foundation. Holiday, a top-10 national prospect in 2008, was already considered the best two-way guard on the West Coast, while Anderson was seen as a skilled facilitator who could run an offense with poise. Together they helped Pump-N-Run win 42 of their 45 games across the spring and summer, proving they were one of the most consistent and dominant squads in the country.

In the championship of the 2007 Adidas Super 64, Pump-N-Run fell to the Atlanta Celtics, who were led by future NBA big men Derrick Favors and Chris Singleton. The Celtics jumped out to a double-digit lead and held it for most of the game before closing out a 75-64 win. Holiday had an uncharacteristic off-night, scoring just 8 points on 2-for-10 shooting and missing six of his seven three-point attempts. Anderson picked up the slack with 14 points, while Larry Drew hit several big threes and finished with 15. Still, the Celtics’ size was overwhelming. Singleton and Favors neutralized the Wear twins and clogged the paint, making it difficult for Pump-N-Run’s guards to attack the rim. Delwan Graham also had a standout performance with 20 points on 9-of-14 shooting, sealing the win for Atlanta.

Even with the tough loss, Pump-N-Run Elite left a lasting mark on the grassroots scene that summer. Their roster was one of the deepest collections of talent ever assembled in California AAU basketball, and their mix of future Bruins and Tar Heels highlighted just how nationally respected the program had become.

13) 2007 Belmont Shore

Coach: Jim Harrick
Director: Dinos Trigonis
Players: Brandon Jennings (NBA), Demar Derozan (NBA), Darius Morris (Michigan), Renaldo Woolridge (Tennessee), Jeff Withey (Kansas), Roberto Nelson (Oregon State), Kyle Fogg (Arizona) Leonard Williams (USC), J.P Olukemi
Tournaments: Arizona Cactus Classic, Reebok Big Time
Sponsor: Reebok

Brandon Jennings was surrounded by a roster stacked with future stars. DeMar DeRozan, still splitting time with P. Miller, brought elite athleticism on the wing. Seven-footer Jeff Withey held down the paint, while Renaldo Woolridge and Mike Tunde Olukemi stretched the floor as versatile forwards. Roberto Nelson provided shooting, and the backcourt had toughness with Darius Morris and Kyle Fogg doing the dirty work. In total, Belmont Shore rolled out seven high-major recruits and three eventual NBA players. With Jennings running the point and Paul Dean orchestrating as GM, this team had pros, scorers, glue guys, and size. Everything you need to build a summer dynasty.

At the 2007 Arizona Desert Classic, Belmont Shore showed just how loaded they were. In a marquee matchup, they blew out Pump N Run Elite, a squad led by Jrue Holiday, by a score of 98 to 81. DeMar DeRozan scored 29 points and Brandon Jennings added 22. Whenever the two future pros were on the floor together, the results were electric. In the five games where Jennings and DeRozan were both active, they combined for 159 points, with Jennings averaging 27.4 per game and DeRozan right behind at 27.0. DeRozan’s best performance came in the semifinals against Double Pump Elite, where he went off for 33 points, 7 rebounds, and a block, while Jennings added 21 points and 6 assists. That set up a high-powered final against the New York Gauchos, led by Kemba Walker. DeRozan finished with 26 points and 6 rebounds, Jennings had 24 points and 9 assists, but Walker’s 24 point effort carried the Gauchos to a hard-fought 102 to 96 win. Even in defeat, Belmont Shore dominated the individual honors. Jennings and DeRozan were both named to the All Tournament Team, while sharpshooter Roberto Nelson also earned a spot after averaging over 20 points per game throughout the weekend. Jennings averaged 25.4 points per game across the week, including a 37-point explosion against King of Court from Akron, one of the most electric games of the tournament. For seven straight days he was a blur, pushing tempo, blowing past defenders, and picking teams apart with full-court bounce passes and no-look lobs. His handle was elite, his reads razor sharp.

At the 2007 Reebok Big Time tournament in Las Vegas, Belmont Shore stumbled early with a loss to Triple Threat, a bruising East Coast team led by Georgetown commits Chris Braswell and Jason Clark. Shorthanded and down to just six healthy players, Belmont still fought hard. Brandon Jennings finished with 18 points and 13 assists, Renaldo Woolridge added 20, and Jeff Withey battled inside, but the size and fatigue were too much to overcome in an 82 to 71 loss. The Big Time format gave teams a second life, and Belmont Shore took advantage. They bounced back with an overtime thriller against Southeast Elite. Jennings put up 27 points, 8 assists, and 9 steals while playing his third full game in four outings. The hero was J.P. Olukemi, who buried a corner three at the buzzer to force overtime and swung momentum Belmont’s way. From there, Belmont rolled. They beat the D1 Greyhounds in the quarterfinals behind a monster effort from Jennings with 30 points, while Withey added a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double. By the time they reached the championship, the early loss to Triple Threat was just a footnote. Jennings had run the gauntlet and delivered on every stage.

The spotlight then shifted to one of the biggest games of the summer: Belmont Shore versus Team Breakdown in the Final, featuring Kenny Boynton and a young Brandon Knight. Jennings and Boynton went at each other possession after possession. Boynton was surgical, while Jennings was slippery. Eloy Vargas dominated the paint for Breakdown with 21 points and 17 rebounds, but the defining moment belonged to Jennings. With six seconds left in regulation and Belmont trailing by three, he dribbled the length of the floor, crossed up Boynton, and buried a step-back 25-footer to tie the game. Both teams exchanged missed free throws in OT to keep each other in it, but after J.P. Olukemi missed the back end of a one n’ one, Team Breakdown threw a poor outlet pass that ruined their chance for a victory. Belmont Shore were crowned 2007 Reebok Big Time Champions.

DeRozan would go on to be a McDonald’s All-American and an NBA All-Star. Jennings would skip college altogether and become a lottery pick after a pro stint in Italy. Withey would become a Final Four anchor at Kansas. Darius Morris, Renaldo Woolridge, Roberto Nelson, Kyle Fogg were all high-major standouts.

14) 2005 Southern California All-Stars

Director: Pat Barrett
Players: Chase Budinger (NBA), Brandon Jennings (NBA), Kevin Love (NBA), Taylor King (Duke, Nova), Daniel Hackett (USC), Malik Story (USC), James Keefe (UCLA)
Notable Tournaments: Easter Classic, Kingwood Classic, Reebok Big Time, Best of Summer, TOC (UNC)
Sponsor: Reebok

This squad was essentially the same core as the legendary 2006 SoCal All-Stars, but with a major addition: Chase Budinger. The 6’6” five-star two guard was one of the most athletic wings in the country, forming a devastating inside-outside duo with Kevin Love. At this point, Love was still splitting time with the Portland Legends before his eventual move to SoCal, but his productivity was undeniable. Even as an underclassman, he was putting up huge numbers, though scouts often debated whether he looked the part of a future NBA star.

Around them, the roster was stacked. Taylor King, a grade-school phenom and one of the best pure shooters in America, had committed to Duke as an eighth grader. Brandon Jennings, just a sophomore, was already one of the most electrifying point guards in the nation regardless of class. Daniel Hackett and Malik Story provided balance in the backcourt, while James Keefe offered size and stability inside.

The results spoke for themselves. At the Las Vegas Easter Classic, Budinger shined brightest, taking home Most Outstanding Player honors after scoring 18 points on 7-of-13 shooting in SoCal’s 83–74 championship win. His all-around performance earned rave reviews from both college coaches and NBA scouts. At the Bob Gibbons TOC, they went undefeated before an early flight home forced them to forfeit the championship game. On the biggest stage at the 2005 Reebok Big Time Tournament, they eventually fell to the stacked Speice Indy Heat (Mike Conley, Eric Gordon, Josh McRoberts, Greg Oden), who went on to win the tournament.

This version of SoCal was already showing the balance of discipline, star power, and depth that would make their 2006 undefeated run one of the greatest in grassroots basketball history.

15) 2010 Oakland Soldiers

Founder: Izzy Washington
Coach: Mark Olivier
Players: Jabari Brown (NBA), Kyle Wiltjer (Gonzaga), Nick Johnson (Arizona), Josiah Turner (Arizona), Dominic Artis (Oregon), Brandon Ashley (NBA), Richard Longrus (CAL), Kiwi Gardner (Providence)
Notable Tournaments: Drew Gooden Extravazna, Peach Jam, Fab 48 Las Vegas
Sponsor: Nike

By 2010, the Oakland Soldiers had already established themselves as one of California’s premier grassroots programs, but this roster took the tradition to another level. The team was loaded with elite Division I prospects across every position, combining athletic guards, versatile wings, and skilled big men.

Nick Johnson was the highlight machine of the group. A 6’3” shooting guard from Findlay Prep, he was known for his above-the-rim finishes and creative mid-range scoring. At Peach Jam, he produced one of the tournament’s most memorable plays, catching a 50-foot pass in transition and throwing down a reverse alley-oop slam before saluting the camera. Johnson’s explosiveness made him a constant draw for coaches, and he quickly became a top-50 national recruit with offers from Arizona, Gonzaga, Louisville, and others.

Alongside him, Jabari Brown and Josiah Turner gave the Soldiers a backcourt that could score in bunches. Brown, a five-star guard ranked among the top 25 nationally, was the team’s most aggressive scorer, taking a high volume of shots and living up to his reputation as a pure bucket-getter. Turner, a lead guard with size, was especially effective getting to the free throw line, where he converted at a 74 percent clip. Dominic Artis provided additional depth and pace in the backcourt rotation.

The frontcourt was just as dangerous. Kyle Wiltjer, a skilled forward with perimeter range, and Brandon Ashley, a versatile 6’9” prospect from the class of 2012, gave the Soldiers size and scoring versatility. Richard Longrus contributed toughness inside, while Kiwi Gardner brought lightning-quick playmaking and energy off the bench.

The Soldiers were tested throughout the summer circuit but delivered when it mattered. At the inaugural Las Vegas Fab 48, they went 8-0 and won the championship in front of former Soldiers like LeBron James, Drew Gooden, and Chuck Hayes. The victory became one of the defining moments of the program, showing that they could reload talent year after year and still dominate the biggest stages. Jabari Brown took home the tournament MVP. 

At Peach Jam, the Soldiers showcased their firepower against national competition. The backcourt trio of Johnson, Brown, and Turner consistently filled the stat sheet, combining for scoring, rebounding, and ball movement. While outside shooting came and went, their ability to attack the rim and draw fouls kept them competitive against every opponent.

The 2010 Soldiers embodied what made the program special: depth at every position, star power that could swing games, and a reputation for shining brightest at the biggest events. Between the Fab 48 championship and a strong Peach Jam run, this team cemented itself as one of the best Oakland Soldiers squads of the 2010s.

16) 2002 Pump n Run 

Director: Dana Pump and David Pump
Players: Trevor Ariza (NBA), Jordan Farmar (NBA), Aaron Afflalo (DNBA)
Notable Tournaments: Best of Summer Tournament, Las Vegas Big Time Tournament
Sponsor: Adidas

The Double Pump program was already a staple of West Coast grassroots basketball, and the 2002 edition of Pump-N-Run was one of its most successful teams. Led by future NBA talents Trevor Ariza, Jordan Farmar, and Aaron Afflalo, along with key contributors like Marcus Slaughter, Evan Moore, and Omar Wilkes, the squad made its mark on the national circuit with a dominant summer.

Their signature moment came at the Best of Summer Tournament at Loyola Marymount, where they stormed through the field and captured the championship. Along the way, Pump-N-Run knocked off the Long Island Panthers, a powerhouse led by Charlie Villanueva and Jason Frazier.

In the championship game, Double Pump wasted no time asserting control. They sprinted out to a 23–7 lead in the first eight minutes, taking the Panthers completely out of rhythm. Marcus Slaughter drew the toughest assignment, shadowing Villanueva in a box-and-one scheme that frustrated the highly touted big man. When Pump sent double-teams at Villanueva, Long Island could not capitalize. Shots rimmed out, layups bounced away, and fatigue set in as the game wore on.

Meanwhile, Pump’s versatile frontcourt dominated the glass. Evan Moore, a two-sport star who would later play football and basketball at Stanford, joined Slaughter and Chris Rucker of Loyola in controlling the paint. On the perimeter, Kejuan Johnson ignited the first half with steals and coast-to-coast layups, racking up 12 points. Rising junior Jordan Farmar carried the momentum in the second half, matching Johnson with 12 of his own, while Dion Cook added 8 points and Jake Collins chipped in 4.

Slaughter was the breakout performer, finishing with 22 points in the final and solidifying his reputation as one of the most productive forwards on the summer circuit. Moore contributed 12 points, while his rebounding and physical play inside set the tone. By the final buzzer, Pump-N-Run had secured a convincing 74–60 victory over the Panthers, capping off one of the program’s most memorable tournament runs.

The 2002 team laid the groundwork for Pump-N-Run’s continued success in the early 2000s. By 2003, the program had reloaded with players like Bryce Taylor, Nick Young, and Omar Wilkes, continuing the tradition of producing high major Division I and NBA talent. But it was the 2002 group, with Ariza, Farmar, Afflalo, and Slaughter, that set the bar with a dominant summer and a defining win against one of the most hyped East Coast programs of the era.

17) 2019 Team Why Not

Players: Jalen Green (NBA), Devin Askew (Texas), Nimari Burnett (Texas Tech), Terren Frank (TCU)
Notable Tournaments: EBYL, Peach Jam
Sponsor: Jordan Brand

Founded with backing from Russell Westbrook, Team Why Not quickly became one of the most recognizable grassroots programs in the country. By 2019, the roster was loaded with athleticism, star power, and future pros. Jalen Green, a top-five recruit and one of the most explosive guards in the nation, headlined a lineup that also featured fellow five-star prospects Cassius Stanley, Nimari Burnett, and Devin Askew, with big man Terren Frank controlling the paint.

Green’s decision to leave the Oakland Soldiers for Team Why Not made waves across the AAU world. It gave the Westbrook-sponsored squad a true national spotlight, as Green was the most athletic player in his class, a high-flying scorer who could attack from anywhere on the floor. Known as “Unicorn” by his peers, he could finish in transition, rise up for threes, or pull up for mid-range jumpers. His length and quickness also made him a disruptive on-ball defender.

Burnett and Askew balanced the backcourt with size and ball-handling ability. Both were regarded as elite guard prospects who could run an offense and create their own shots. Stanley brought highlight-reel athleticism and an outside shot that kept defenses honest, while Frank provided toughness and rebounding inside.

Team Why Not battled through the Nike EYBL circuit and qualified for Peach Jam, where they made a deep run. In the semifinals, Green delivered one of his signature performances, leading a fourth-quarter comeback against Boo Williams that pushed the squad into the championship game.

The 2019 Peach Jam final pitted Team Why Not against MOKAN Elite, led by N’Faly Dante and Kennedy Chandler. In a showcase of future college and NBA talent, MOKAN edged out Team Why Not to claim the title. Although they fell short, Green and his teammates cemented themselves as one of the most dangerous and entertaining teams of the summer.

Looking back, the roster’s legacy is mixed. Green went on to become the No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft and established himself as a rising star, though he later clashed with Russell Westbrook during the 2025 NBA Playoffs, prompting Westbrook to quip, “Didn’t this kid used to play for my AAU team?” Burnett and Askew, both once considered elite prospects, struggled to find consistent roles in college and never came close to hearing their names called in the NBA Draft. Stanley had a brief NBA career, while Frank contributed solid minutes at TCU.

Even without the ultimate championship, 2019 Team Why Not was one of the most memorable squads of its era.

18) 2016 California Supreme

Coach: Gary Franklin
Players: DeAndre Ayton (NBA), Brandon McCoy (UNLV, Oregon), Cassius Stanley (NBA)
Notable Tournaments: EBYL, Peach Jam
Sponsor: Nike

California Supreme entered the 2016 Nike EYBL with one of the most intimidating rosters in grassroots basketball. Anchored by seven-foot phenoms DeAndre Ayton and Brandon McCoy, the team added versatile talent in Cassius Stanley. They finished the regular season with a 10-6 record, qualifying for Peach Jam, Nike’s prestigious national finals.

Ayton, the consensus No. 1 prospect in the country, wasted no time establishing himself as the most dominant big man on the circuit. In his EYBL debut, he averaged 13 points and 12 rebounds across three games, including a 23-point, 18-rebound performance in the opener. Session two saw Ayton elevate his play even further, averaging 24.5 points and 12.5 rebounds per game, shooting 70 percent from the field, and leading California Supreme to a 4-0 record in Minnesota. His 30-point, 17-rebound explosion against E1T1 United stood out as one of the most dominant single-game performances of the season.

McCoy’s presence alongside Ayton gave California Supreme a “twin towers” look that few teams could match. In session play, McCoy averaged 21 points and 11 rebounds, giving the squad another elite interior option. Their combined production fueled an 11-game win streak early in EYBL competition, making Cal Supreme one of the hottest teams on the circuit.

One of the season’s marquee moments came at the Nike EYBL in Brooklyn, when California Supreme faced the PSA Cardinals and Mo Bamba. The showdown between Ayton, the No. 1 player in the country, and Bamba, a top-five prospect, drew a packed crowd at the Nike Cruise Terminal. The court was reserved for the highest-profile games, and the audience reflected that Roy Williams, John Calipari, Tom Izzo, Bill Self, and John Beilein all arrived to evaluate the matchup. In front of a national stage, Ayton and Bamba traded highlight plays, further solidifying their reputations as the premier big men of the 2017 class.

California Supreme’s strong play carried into Peach Jam, where Ayton saved his best for the biggest stage. He scored 17 or more points in all seven games, recording a double-double in six of them. His best outing came against Phoenix Family, a team led by his former Hillcrest teammate Marvin Bagley. Ayton finished with 23 points and 18 rebounds in a statement performance. Cal Supreme advanced to the semifinals before being eliminated by eventual champions MOKAN Elite, led by Michael Porter Jr. and Trae Young.

While the team’s success was unquestionable, California Supreme’s 2016 run was not without controversy. Later testimony from federal cases surrounding grassroots basketball alleged that Nike representatives helped funnel money to individuals tied to Ayton, McCoy, and Bol Bol. Coach Gary Franklin himself was named in documents describing financial assistance to handlers and family members. Although no direct evidence was tied to the players, the allegations added another layer of intrigue to an already high-profile roster.

Despite the noise, what stood out most was Ayton’s dominance. Coach Franklin praised his intelligence, leadership, and ability to elevate teammates. Critics occasionally questioned Ayton’s motor, suggesting that his talent level made him look bored at times, but Franklin dismissed that narrative. “He is the best player and prospect in the class and has unbelievable ability to elevate his teammates and team,” Franklin said at the time.

California Supreme’s 2016 squad left a lasting impact on the EYBL. Ayton went on to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, fulfilling the promise he showed on the circuit. 

19) 2008 LA Dream Team

Coach: Renardo Sidney Sr
Players: Kawhi Lenord (NBA), Tony Snell (NBA), Renardo Sidney (Miss St.), Eric Lawton (Little Rock), Dominique O'Connor (University of San Francisco), Antonio Biglow (Montana State), Cartavius Kincade (Army), Nigel Carter (Cal)
Notable Tournaments: Rumble in The Bay, Reebok Big Time, Best of Summer
Sponsor: Reebok

The L.A. Dream Team entered the circuit in 2007 as a new Reebok-sponsored program run by Renardo Sidney Sr., with his son Renardo Jr. as the headliner. The roster quickly gained national attention thanks to its mix of high-level recruits and future NBA talent.

In 2008, the Dream Team made its mark by winning the Patrick Danahmey Rumble in the Bay, a tournament that cemented their reputation as one of the toughest grassroots squads in California. They also went 3-1 at the Arizona Desert Classic, posting wins over Utah Pump-n-Run, California Supreme, and Boo Williams. Kawhi Leonard averaged 16.8 points per game in Arizona, showing early signs of the two-way dominance that would define his professional career.

Leonard carried his strong summer into the high school season, averaging 22.6 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 3.9 assists at Martin Luther King High School. He led his team to the CIF Division I regional final, navigating one of the toughest playoff brackets in the state’s history.

The Dream Team’s circuit journey was anything but ordinary. At the 2008 Rumble in the Bronx, the squad ran into chaos when their uniforms were left behind in Los Angeles. Forced to borrow jerseys from the Juice All-Stars, the team also showed up late to a matchup against the New York Panthers after their van got lost in the Bronx. The game took place in a small, sweltering gym known as “the dungeon,” adding to the surreal atmosphere of the weekend. Despite the setbacks, Sidney and Leonard kept the Dream Team competitive.

Renardo Sidney’s presence always attracted attention. Having once told the Washington Post that high school basketball “isn’t that important,” Sidney focused heavily on AAU competition, even at the risk of his reputation. When his family relocated to California, Reebok hired his father as a consultant, allowing the team to travel regularly on the grassroots circuit. Critics questioned the non-profit structure of the program, noting that Renardo Sr. could accept NCAA-legal donations from schools interested in his players. Sidney even toyed with the idea of skipping college entirely to pursue a professional career in Europe, much like Brandon Jennings.

Controversy aside, the L.A. Dream Team produced results on the court. In a marquee game against Yakima Elite, the squad closed out a 71-63 victory behind Sidney’s interior dominance and the versatile play of Leonard. Lawton and O’Connor contributed strong performances as well, showing the depth of a team that could attack in different ways.

The 2008 L.A. Dream Team stands out not just for its talent but for the combination of triumphs, obstacles, and the larger storylines surrounding Renardo Sidney and Kawhi Leonard. In hindsight, it became the launching point for Leonard’s rise from an underrated recruit to an NBA Finals MVP, while Sidney’s presence made the Dream Team one of the most talked-about grassroots programs in the country.

20) P Miller Ballers

Coach/Director: Pery Miller
Players: DeMar Derozan (NBA), Brandon Jennings (NBA), Lance Stephenson (NBA), Renardo Sidney (USC), Percy Miller (USC), Armon Johnson (NBA)
Notable Tournaments: Nike Main event, Arizona Dessert Classic
Sponsor: P Miller

From 2004 to 2006, the P. Miller Ballers dominated the national AAU scene under the guidance of Percy “Master P” Miller. Based in Los Angeles with stops in Milwaukee and New Orleans, the Ballers assembled a roster loaded with future NBA and college stars. Among them were DeMar DeRozan, Brandon Jennings, Lance Stephenson, Armon Johnson, Renardo Sidney, and Romeo Miller. The team competed in marquee tournaments such as the Nike Main Event and the Arizona Desert Classic and was known for athleticism, skill, and high-flying play that captivated fans across the country.

Master P was more than a sponsor. He recruited top talent nationwide, mentored players off the court, and emphasized discipline and development. “I like coaching on the AAU and high school level,” he said. “Eventually, I want to coach at the college level or maybe even in the NBA. Right now, I’m learning the game.” His hands-on approach made the Ballers a true incubator for elite talent.

DeMar DeRozan, already a Compton legend, was a highlight machine for the Ballers. Known for his leaping ability, scoring versatility, and basketball IQ, he flourished under Master P’s guidance. “I am forever grateful,” DeRozan said. “He taught us about life and how to understand business, the business of basketball. He was, in a sense, a father figure.” At Compton High School, DeRozan averaged 29.2 points and 7.9 rebounds as a senior while leading his team to a second straight Moore League title. On the Ballers, he faced the nation’s best and gained invaluable exposure to college and NBA scouts.

Brandon Jennings, a point guard standout since middle school, ran the floor with precision and poise. Recruited through DeRozan, Jennings showcased his speed, vision, and scoring ability in high-profile tournaments. He would go on to skip college and play professionally in Europe before entering the 2009 NBA Draft, where he was selected 10th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks.

Lance Stephenson, nicknamed “Born Ready,” brought energy and versatility to the squad. Known for his intensity and scoring prowess, he competed at the Adidas ABCD Camp and the Rumble in the Bronx AAU tournament. His athleticism and competitive fire made him a dynamic backcourt partner alongside DeRozan and Jennings.

Renardo Sidney and Armon Johnson added size, skill, and scoring punch. Sidney, a 6-foot-8 forward, dominated high school and AAU circuits with his polished post moves and shooting touch. Johnson, a 6-foot-3 guard, was Nevada’s all-time leading scorer and excelled in playmaking, rounding out a formidable roster.

Romeo Miller, Master P’s son, handled point guard duties when needed, demonstrating smart floor leadership and solid passing. Though his athleticism was less explosive than his teammates, his basketball IQ and experience as a youth prodigy helped stabilize the squad.

The Ballers had notable success in competition. They went 3-1 in the 2006 Arizona Desert Classic and won many games at the 2007 Nike Main Event in Las Vegas, though that year the top AAU teams were more heavily powered by the Adidas and Reebok circuits. They also finished third in the 14-and-under AAU Nationals, won the AAU Pacific Basketball Super Regional, and placed second in the 15-and-under Nationals, falling to the D-1 Greyhounds in 2005. Beyond the results, they created a model for youth basketball success, blending mentorship, exposure, and elite talent in a pre-social media era that relied on word-of-mouth and tournament performance.

Master P’s P. Miller Ballers left a lasting imprint on AAU history. The program not only developed future stars but also pioneered a blueprint for blending family, business, and basketball, a concept later echoed by other high-profile AAU families.

Honorable Mention - Sponsored California Basketball Teams

1998 Pump-n-Run

1998 Pump-n-Run was a marquee Adidas tournament held July 15–20, 1998. Future NBA stars like Gilbert Arenas, Luke Walton, and Mike Dunleavy Jr. showcased their talent across the nation, including the Las Vegas Big Time Tournament, where Gilbert Arenas broke up as a potential star.

2006 Inland Empire (Reebok West)

2006 Inland Empire, competing in the Reebok West circuit, featured All-American Michael Snear and UCLA standout Malcolm Lee. The team dominated multiple tournaments, showcasing Southern California’s deep AAU talent pool.

1988 San Francisco Slam-n-Jam Traveling Team

1988 San Francisco Slam-n-Jam Traveling Team featured future NBA star Isiah "Jr" Rider and Villanova commit Calvin Byrd. The team helped set the foundation for the Oakland Soldiers.

Sponsored California Basketball Teams - Past & Present

SoCal AAU Teams

Belmont Shore - Dinos Trigonis' - Reebok
Pump n Run - Pump Brothers - Adidas
Socal All Stars - Pat Barrett - Nike/Reebok
California Supreme - Nike
Compton Magic - Adidas
Team California - Nike
Team Why Not - Jordan
Inland Empire - Reebok
Los Angeles Rockfish - Adidas
Lamar Odom I Can All-Stars
Team Why Not - Jordan
Strive for Greatness - Nike/LeBron
LA Dream Team - Reebok
Blue Chips 15u - Nike

NorCal AAU Teams

Oakland Soilders - NIke/Reebok
Oakland Rebels/Team Lillard - Adidas / Reebok
Team Kidd - Nike Womens
Bay Area Hoosiers - Adidas
Play Hard Play Smart - Adidas
Splash City / Team Curry - Under Armor
Sacramento Phraos (Bobby Jackson's Basketball Town) - Adidas
EBO EA-Sports All-Stars - Darren Matsubara - Adidas

25 Greatest CA High School Basketball Teams
20 Greatest California AAU Teams
Best Bay Area Basketball Players of All Time
Best Sacramento Area Basketball Players of All Time
Best North Bay Basketball Players of All time
Best Fresno Area Basketball Players of All Time
LeBron James Time with The Oakland Soldiers

Drop us a comment and let us know who we missed.