GROVE CITY, Ohio -- The Hidden Gems program held their annual showcase on Sunday at Central Crossing High School.

Hundreds of participants from all over Ohio were on hand for both boys and girls, ranging from 4th grade to high school seniors.

Along with a handful of college coaches, our prospect scout and staff writer Greg Glasser was on hand to observe the boys high school session as he shares below the prospects that caught his attention.

Julian Johnson (5'11 Guard / Thomas Worthington / 2025)

The most offensively skilled participant of the day, Johnson's versatile scoring ability put on a show. He came out firing, as he hit six of his first seven three-point attempts that showcased a quick trigger from all areas beyond the arc. Johnson's strong shooting was complimented by his quality handles and an ability to finish on difficult drives to the hoop. After he was named MVP of 270 Hoops' Battle for the City event this past spring, Johnson has blossomed into one of the top guards in the area for the 2025 class and someone that area scholarship colleges should make a priority.

Aaron Foster (6'1 Guard / Dublin Scioto / 2025)

One of the more coveted prospects participating, Foster certainly caught the eyes of the coaches in attendance. The Scioto senior was at his best at the rim, showing off his strong left-hand finishes as he was difficult to stop off the dribble. Foster is a good athlete that has a bit of a natural scorer feel to him, as he averaged over 16 points per game last season. A good student, Foster has heard from programs of all divisions and is expected to be one of the top senior guards in the area.

Owan Mburugu (6'5 Forward / Northland / 2027) 

The sophomore Viking was one of a few select sophomores called up to play with the juniors and seniors and Mburugu's performance proved that decision to be solid logic. Mburugu's skillset paired with his lengthy frame was noticeable, as he displayed an ability to hit contested mid-ranges, a good touch around the rim and above average handles for his size. It is clear the 6'5 forward has next-level talent. As his game continues to grow and he works on staying in better control at times, expect Mburugu to evolve into one of the City League's best players.

Christian King (6'0 Guard / Bishop Hartley / 2026)

My vote for hustler of the day goes to King, a scrappy guard that played with the right mindset of and made the most of his opportunity. King did all of the little things; fought for offensive boards and loose balls, challenged ball-handlers the length of the court and stayed aggressive even if some of his shots weren't falling. I did not see a player take as many charges as King did, not something often seen in exhibition games. King should bring energy to a Hartley team that has high aspirations and as he continues to work on his scoring ability, his effort will make it hard to take him off the court.

Favor McFadden (6'4 Forward / Pickerington North / 2025)

From the moment he walks on the court, McFadden's physical presence is quite frankly, intimidating. He's built like a lean defensive end and while he may be undersized as a collegiate forward, his wingspan adds a few extra inches to his game. The Pickerington North senior was the day's best rim protector, collecting blocks on opposing bigs and guards that had the courage to meet him at the rim. McFadden appears to be mindful of growing his game, particularly his handles and midrange scoring, which will make him a more attractive prospect for various D2, NAIA and JUCOs programs.

Jackson Kirura (6'4 Wing / Genoa Christian / 2027)

It was fitting the name of the showcase was Hidden Gems, because that's how it felt watching Kirura. A 6'4 wing that looks to still be growing, Kirura appeared rather advanced for a sophomore with a pretty jumper that was capable of getting hot from deep. He added a smooth touch with the ball and made impressive passes. Kirura looks to be a major piece for a Genoa Christian team that is playing in the MOCAL this season. Keep an eye on this kid.

Shaun Burgan (6'6 Center / Dayton Stivers / 2025)

A bruising big that also can play away from the rim, Burgan was one of my favorite players to watch on Sunday. With a frame of an athletic offensive lineman, Brugan not only was forceful in the paint, but graceful as well. He showed quick feet and a nice ability to pass out of the post. As the day progressed, Brugan raised eyebrows with confident makes beyond the arc. He competed well on defense and possibly led the Showcase with blocks. 

Jeremy Daniels Jr. (6'0 Guard / Dayton Stivers / 2025)

Burgan was joined by an equally impressive teammate in guard Jeremy Daniels Jr., who brought his own bottle of energy and competitiveness. One could argue Daniels Jr. was the best two-way guard of the day, as he was active collecting steals and was a consistent scoring threat for his team. Daniels Jr. is quick and was able to find scoring success from most areas of the court. The Stiver team was well represented on Sunday.

AJ Austin-Robinson (6'7 Forward / Cincinnati Clark Montessori / 2025)

The big from Cincinnati caught my eye towards the latter half of the day. The more I was able to watch him, the more impressed I came away. Austin-Robinson showed a bit of everything; quality post moves, a mid-range, ability to go the length of the floor and nearly the dunk of the day. He used his size to his advantage on the glass. With his length, there's intriguing potential for Austin-Robinson.