2025 McDonald's All American Games Takeaways

The 2025 McDonald's All-American Game settled in Brooklyn, NY to showcase the next generation of basketball stars, delivering an exciting display of talent, athleticism, and skill. Featuring the top high school prospects in the country, the game provided a glimpse into the future of college and professional basketball. This year’s event highlighted emerging superstars, fierce competition, and moments that will be remembered as these young athletes take the next step in their careers. Here are the biggest takeaways from the 2025 McDonald's All-American Game.

McDonalds All American Girls Game:

Sienna Betts made a strong impression at the 2025 McDonald's All-American Game, showcasing her elite two-way skill set and dominance in the paint to take home MVP honors after posting 16 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists on 8-16 from the field. The 6'4" forward displayed her versatility, excelling in both scoring and rebounding while anchoring the defense with her shot-blocking presence. Her footwork, touch around the rim, and ability to stretch the floor set her apart, proving why she is one of the most highly touted prospects in her class. Betts also demonstrated impressive passing ability, making smart plays and facilitating for her teammates. With her combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ, she solidified herself as a future impact player at the next level.

Aaliyah Chavez ( 10 pts, 4 asts, 3 rebs, 2 stls) is a gunslinger. And I say that with the utmost respect. Chavez came in with the reputation as one of the most electrifying guards in the 2025 McDonald's All-American Game, and top ranked player overall, in the country. While she struggled to shoot efficiently from the field, the elite guard had moments where she showcased her deep shooting range, quick handles, and ability to create her own shot against the cream of the crop in the senior class. Whether pulling up from beyond the arc, attacking the rim with confidence, or facilitating for teammates, Chavez displayed the well-rounded offensive game that has made her one of the top prospects in her class.

Jazzy Davidson impressed the most to me with her blend of size, athleticism and point forward skill set. Davidson (12 pts, 6 rebs, 2 blks, 6-13 FG) showcased her all-around game, proving why she is one of the most versatile and skilled wings in her class. Standing out with her smooth scoring ability, she attacked the basket with ease and knocked down mid-range jumpers. Her length and defensive instincts were also on display, as she disrupted passing lanes and contested shots effectively. In addition to her scoring, Davidson impressed with her court vision and ability to make the right plays for her teammates. With her combination of size, skill, and high basketball IQ, she reinforced her status as a future impact player as she prepares to suit up at Southern California next season. 

Mia Pauldo is a throwback as a traditional floor general. The future Tennessee Vol (9 pts, 7 asts, 3 rebs,2 stls, 3-7 FG) made her presence felt with her elite ball-handling, court vision, and ability to control the tempo of the game. As a dynamic playmaking guard, she showcased her quick first step, facilitating skills, and knack for breaking down defenders to create scoring opportunities for herself and her teammates. Pauldo’s ability to push the pace in transition and make smart decisions under pressure highlighted her maturity and composure as a floor general. Defensively, she displayed her tenacity, using her quickness to apply on-ball pressure and disrupt passing lanes.

Nyla Brooks (11 pts, 4 rebs, 2 stls on 5-11 FG, 1-2 3FG) shined, showcasing her athleticism, versatility, and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. As a dynamic wing, she excelled in transition, using her speed and strength to finish at the rim while also knocking down perimeter shots with confidence. Her defensive intensity stood out, as she applied pressure on the ball, disrupted passing lanes, and displayed the ability to guard multiple positions. Brooks also showed her rebounding prowess, crashing the boards and creating second-chance opportunities for her team. With her high motor, two-way skill set, and competitive mindset, she proved that she is indeed a gem as she readies for Chapel Hill.

McDonalds All American Boys Game:

Nate Ament (12 pts, 3 rebs, 3-6 FG, 2-2 3FG) showcased his versatility and high-level skill set, proving why he is one of the most intriguing prospects in his class. The 6'9" forward displayed his ability to score at all three levels, knocking down perimeter shots, finishing strong at the rim, and utilizing his smooth mid-range game. His length and athleticism were evident on both ends of the floor, as he disrupted passing lanes, protected the rim, and ran the floor in transition. Ament also impressed with his ball-handling and playmaking for a player of his size, showing glimpses of the modern, positionless style that translates well to the next level and beyond. Ament is still undecided on where he will attend college next season.

AJ Dybansta (17 pts, 5 rebs, 7-12 FG) AJ Dybantsa put on a show, solidifying his reputation as arguably the top player in the 2025 class. The dynamic wing showcased his elite scoring ability, attacking the rim with power, finishing through contact, and knocking down perimeter shots with confidence. His athleticism was on full display, whether throwing down highlight-reel dunks or using his quickness and length to make an impact defensively. Dybantsa’s ability to create his own shot, combined with his high motor and defensive versatility, made him one of the most impactful players on the court. Dybansta will suit up for BYU next season.

Cayden Boozer (6 pts, 4 asts, 2 stls on 3-4 FG) delivered an efficient performance with his elite playmaking ability, composure, and two-way impact. As a skilled and poised point guard, he controlled the tempo, made smart decisions, and facilitated for his teammates with precision passing. Boozer also displayed his scoring ability, using his strength to finish through contact at the rim and knocking down shots from mid-range. Defensively, he impressed with his toughness and effort, applying on-ball pressure and showing a high defensive IQ. His leadership, basketball intelligence, and ability to impact the game is advanced and should bring a belief that he will be ready to go at Duke from day one.

Darryn Peterson ( 18 pts, 7 rebs, 3 asts, 3 stls on 7-14 FG) is a special special talent. The co-MVP showed off his dynamic scoring ability and well-rounded skill set, proving why he is seen as the top player in the 2025 class, regardless of position, by many evaluators. He demonstrated his elite shot-making, effortlessly knocking down jumpers, attacking the basket with confidence, and finishing through contact. Peterson’s smooth ball-handling and ability to create space allowed him to generate his own offense while also facilitating for his teammates when needed. Defensively, he displayed solid instincts and effort, using his strength, length and quickness to disrupt opponents. Kansas has one of one coming to town.

Tounde Yessoufou (9 pts, 4 rebs, 3 asts, 6 stls) made a strong impression at the 2025 McDonald's All-American Game with his elite athleticism, physicality, and high-energy style of play. The powerful wing attacked the rim relentlessly, using his strength to finish through contact and make an impact in transition. His explosiveness was on full display, as he threw down thunderous dunks and battled for rebounds on both ends of the floor. Defensively, Yessoufou showcased his versatility, using his length and quickness to guard multiple positions and disrupt passing lanes, resulting in a game high six steals. His motor and toughness set him apart, proving that he can be a game-changer with his relentless approach. With his combination of athleticism, defensive prowess, and offensive upside, Yessoufou further solidified himself as someone to keep a close eye on at Baylor next season.

Cameron Boozer (16 pts, 12 rebs on 6-12 FG) was named co-MVP along with Darryn Peterson, after showcasing his elite skill set, versatility, and high basketball IQ. The 6’9” forward presented his ability to score inside and outside, knocking down perimeter shots, finishing with touch around the rim, and using his strength to overpower defenders in the post. His rebounding was a major factor, as he controlled the glass on both ends, creating second-chance opportunities and igniting fast breaks. Defensively, Boozer held his own in the paint while also showing the ability to switch onto smaller players. With his combination of skill, physicality, and basketball intelligence, Boozer reaffirmed his status as one of the top prospects in this class. Boozer is set to attend Duke next season.

Zai Harwell ( 16 pts, 4 rebs, 2 asts, 2 stls on 6-9 from the FG, 4-7 from 3FG) shined with his quickness, scoring ability, and playmaking skills. The dynamic guard showcased his ability to create off the dribble, using his speed and handles to break down defenders and get to the rim. He also displayed a smooth shooting touch, confidently knocking down mid-range jumpers and three-pointers. Harwell to put it simply, shot the leather off the ball. Also, his court vision and passing ability stood out, as he made smart reads and set up teammates for easy baskets. Defensively, he brought energy and intensity, using his quick hands, length and lateral movement to pressure opposing guards. Harwell will be a welcomed addition to the Houston program.