You Won't Believe What Happened at the Legends Classic: 5 Shocking Moments That Changed Everything!

The start of the college basketball season is always a whirlwind of excitement and intrigue, and this year is no exception. The No Ceilings team has been on the move, covering various tournaments and games across the country, including the recent Legends Classic held in Daytona Beach, Florida. This tournament, which has roots dating back to 2007, has showcased teams like Pittsburgh, UCF, and Quinnipiac, all vying for early-season glory.

Daytona Beach provided an ideal backdrop for this year's tournament, with the Ocean Center serving as the venue for the matchup between UCF and Pittsburgh. As a credentialed member of No Ceilings, I had the unique opportunity to witness not only the action on the court but also the growing community around college basketball scouting.

This particular game may not have featured numerous prospects expected to go in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft, but it did highlight several players worth keeping an eye on as the season unfolds. Here are some notable scouting observations from my time in Daytona.

Riley Kugel, a name familiar to many fans, made a significant impression. After transferring from Mississippi State to UCF, Kugel has stepped up his game, averaging 17.7 points, 3.1 assists, and 2.6 rebounds per game with impressive shooting splits of 49/55/79. During the game against Pittsburgh, he scored 18 points and showcased a well-rounded scoring ability that included crafty finishes around the basket and excellent court vision. His performance solidified his status as a player with potential to make an impact at the professional level. While I initially considered including him in my preseason Ryan Kalkbrenner Award watchlist, his most recent showing nearly changed my mind.

Another player worth mentioning is Cameron Corhen, who has found a new home at Pittsburgh after transferring from Florida State. Corhen has displayed his offensive versatility, averaging 11.0 points and 5.2 rebounds per game while shooting 60.2% for his career. In the game against UCF, he demonstrated his skills as a utility big man, scoring with a mix of self-created opportunities and offensive rebounds.

Then there’s Jamichael Stillwell, who has made quite a name for himself after a standout season with the Milwaukee Panthers. A former JUCO player, Stillwell averaged 13.0 points and 10.7 rebounds last season and continues to impress with his hustle and rebounding ability. During the game, he contributed significantly on both ends, scoring early and tying for a game-high in rebounds with 11. His work ethic and leadership on the court stood out, especially during warmups when he rallied his teammates.

Barry Dunning Jr. is another name to watch. After transferring from South Alabama, where he averaged 15.1 points and 7.2 rebounds, he made an immediate impact for Pittsburgh, contributing 14 points and six rebounds off the bench. Dunning demonstrated his versatility and athleticism, making plays on both ends of the floor, including impressively blocking a shot from Kugel.

Omari Witherspoon, a four-star prospect for Pittsburgh, is still developing but has shown glimpses of potential. As a freshman, he has started every game, averaging 7.3 points, 2.6 assists, and 1.6 rebounds per game. While his performance against UCF was relatively quiet, the combination of his size and skill set suggests a bright future as he continues to acclimate to the college game.

Overall, the Legends Classic served as a reminder of the depth of talent in college basketball and the importance of early-season matchups in shaping narratives for prospects heading into the NBA Draft. Each player I observed has a unique journey, and how they navigate their respective seasons will be critical in their pursuit of professional careers.

As the 2026 NBA Draft approaches, keep an eye on these players, as they have the potential to make meaningful strides in their development. The excitement of college basketball is just beginning, and as we delve deeper into the season, the stories of these emerging talents will continue to unfold.

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