Commitment Catch Up (4/17/26)

Elias Benaka | Friday, April 17th, 2026

As the offseason continues and the grassroots season begins, more players from across New England have locked in their next stops at the collegiate level. These players have finished off tremendous high school careers and are ready to make the jump to the next level. 

Owen Eaton, Tilton School (NH)
Committed to the University of Saint Joseph

Owen Eaton has continued to develop into a dynamic scoring guard during his time at Tilton. Originally from Vermont, the 6 '2 guard has made a name for himself with his ability to score at all three levels. He is a confident shotmaker who can knock down tough jumpers off the dribble, but what separates him is his ability to get downhill and finish through contact at the rim. The relentless scoring mentality that he possesses allows him to not to be afraid of big moments. Over the past year, his consistency has taken a jump, and he has become a go-to option offensively. As he heads to Saint Joseph, his ability to create offense and apply pressure on defenses should allow him to carve out a role early.

Evan Eaton, Tilton School (NH)
Committed to the University of Saint Joseph

Joining his brother at Saint Joseph, Evan Eaton brings a steady and composed presence to the backcourt. Also, a 6’2 guard from Vermont, Evan, thrives as a floor general who understands how to control the pace of the game. He is at his best when orchestrating the offense, making smart reads, and putting his teammates in positions to succeed. His passing ability and vision stand out, and he has shown the ability to adjust tempo depending on what the game calls for. While he can score when needed, his biggest impact comes from his decision-making and leadership. The chemistry between the Eaton brothers should translate well at the next level, giving Saint Joseph a balanced and connected backcourt.

Liam Simpson, La Salle Academy (RI) 
Committed to Tufts University

Coming off a standout career at La Salle Academy and with BCRI, Liam Simpson heads to Tufts as one of the more accomplished players in the region. The Rhode Island Gatorade Player of the Year played a major role in leading his team to a state championship, consistently producing as both a scorer and rebounder. Simpson has a strong frame and plays with physicality allowing him to finish through defenders and control the glass on both ends. He has a natural feel for scoring and can take over stretches of a game when needed. His ability to impact winning combined with his toughness and motors should make him a strong addition to Tufts and in the NESCAC.

CJ Azor, Northfield Mount Hermon 
Committed to RIT

CJ Azor has built his reputation as a reliable two-way guard who impacts the game in a variety of ways. The New York native has developed well at Northfield Mount Hermon as well as with Team Northeast, where his defensive instincts and effort consistently stand out. He closes out under control, reads passing lanes effectively, and takes pride in guarding opposing perimeter players. Offensively, he brings a smooth shooting touch and plays within the flow while making smart decisions with the ball. He does not force much and understands his role, which adds to his value. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor should help him transition smoothly back to his home state and RIT.

Paul Comba, South Burlington HS (VT)
Committed to Norwich University

Paul Comba has been one of Vermont’s most consistent guards, earning recognition as the No. 5 ranked player in the state. At 5’10 he makes up for size with craftiness, toughness, and a strong scoring ability. Comba is effective at creating his own shot and using change of pace and ball handling to get to his spots. He can score from the perimeter or attack the lane, showing a well-rounded offensive game. What stands out most is his consistency, where night in and night out, he produces and gives his team a steady pace. As he heads to Norwich, his scoring ability and confidence with the ball in his hands should allow him to make an immediate impact.

Makell Hailey, Wilbur Cross HS 
Committed to Curry College

Makell Hailey brings size, energy, and physicality to the forward position as he prepares to join Curry. Standing at 6’6, he excels as a rim runner and thrives in transition around the basket. He attacks the rim aggressively and finishes well through contact while also making his presence felt on the glass. The rebounding ability and motor allow him to impact possessions even when he is not scoring. Defensively, he uses his size to contest shots and hold his own in the paint. He developed his style with Team Ready, and it will fit well with the college game, where his effort and physical tools should translate into early opportunities.

Kingston Maxwell, Abington HS
Committed to Endicott College

Kingston Maxwell is a versatile 6’4 wing who has continued to expand his game over the past year. A fluid athlete who moves well in the open floor and has the ability to score in multiple ways. He can knock down shots from the perimeter, attack closeouts, and finish above the rim when given space. His length and athleticism also allow him to be effective defensively, where he can guard multiple positions and disrupt passing lanes. Playing with Middlesex Magic HGSL has given him exposure to high-level competition and helped him continue to develop his all-around game. At Endicott, his versatility and upside make him intriguing on a team that found a ton of success last season.