Talking Hoops with Sam Thompson

2029 rankings

In this episode of Buckets in the 503, we break down the newly released Prep Hoops Oregon Class of 2029 Top 10 Rankings and discuss the next generation of players set to make an impact across the state. We take a closer look at the players sitting at the top of the rankings, including Kendall Hopkins-McGlothen, Jordan Smith, Ryder Powell, Victor Norris III, and Southridge's Judah Hardt, while highlighting the programs that are building for the future. We discuss who has the highest ceiling, which players could make the biggest jump over the next year, and why rankings are only the beginning of the journey. Plus, we give our early predictions on who could be competing for the No. 1 spot by the time this class graduates. Whether you're a coach, parent, player, or Oregon hoops fan, this episode gives you an early look at the names you'll be hearing about for years to come. 🏀 Top 10 Breakdown 📈 Stock Up Players 🔥 Highest Upside Prospects 🏫 Programs to Watch 🎯 Early Predictions for the Class of 2029 Tune in and join the conversation as we spotlight the future stars of Oregon basketball on Buckets in the 503

Chiles Center-road to the 6A state title

“Eight teams. Three days. One champion. The Chiles Center was electric — overtime battles, statement wins, and a championship that came down to one point. From Benson’s run… to Jesuit locking teams up… to Central Catholic looking like a machine… And then Tualatin finishing the job when it mattered most. We’re breaking down the biggest moments, the top performers, and how it all unfolded on Oregon’s biggest stage.

Review round of 16 -Elite 8 predictions

“Eight teams remain… but only four will make it to the Chiles Center. A #1 seed just went down on a game-winner in overtime. A double-overtime thriller sent Clackamas through. Grant pulled off a statement upset. And Central Catholic looks like a machine. Now the matchups are set: Benson vs Clackamas. Sherwood vs Tualatin. Jesuit vs Oregon City. Grant vs Central Catholic. The road to the 6A State Championship runs through Portland.

Round 1 review & Round 2 preview

we’re breaking down everything from Round 1 of the 6A playoffs — the biggest wins, the standout performances, and the upsets that shook the bracket. From Southridge and Central Catholic making statements to players stepping up under the playoff lights — we’ve got it all. And then we look ahead to Round 2, previewing the matchups and making our predictions on who’s moving one step closer to the Chiles Center. Tap in — this is Buckets in the 503.” 🏀🔥

Talking Hoops with Sam Thompson

Director of PortlandBoyz AAU and SEI Director. We’re diving into grassroots basketball, building programs the right way, navigating the AAU circuit, and what it really takes to elevate Portland hoops on a national level. We’ll also talk about keeping top talent home, why playing for local programs matters, and his take on the current 6A landscape. From culture to competition, leadership to legacy — this conversation goes way beyond the game. Tap in.