By Jonathan Dogbo
January 21st, Levallois, France, held the Young Star Game, an event where many of the most coveted French prospects born between 2003 and 2009 showcased their talents. Our Collaborator, Jonathan Dogbo, attended the game and was also at the combine celebrated the day before, and tells us more about what he saw.
Nathan De Sousa (2003, PG, Cholet)
Height: 6’3” | Wingspan: 6’4”
Nathan De Sousa is a poised playmaking point guard who plays with excellent pacing and control. Standing at 6’3” with a 6’4” wingspan, he has a smooth shooting form, although his shots didn’t fall consistently during the event. De Sousa’s strength lies in his ability to create for others and facilitate the offense, showcasing a high IQ and strong decision-making skills.
While scoring isn’t his primary focus, refining his shooting consistency could make him a more balanced threat. With his
composure and playmaking ability, De Sousa projects as a reliable floor general with room to grow offensively.
Zacharie Perrin (2004, C, SLUC Nancy)
Height: 6’9” | Wingspan: 7’1” | Weight: 235 lbs
Zacharie Perrin had a solid performance, displaying strong fundamentals and offensive skill. He has soft hands around the rim, making him an efficient finisher, and he complements that with a reliable mid-range jumper, adding versatility to his scoring. Perrin’s size and 7’1” wingspan give him a natural advantage in the post and on the boards.
However, there are concerns about his defensive mobility. He needs to improve his footwork to better guard quicker players and handle pick-and-roll situations. His conditioning and stamina also need work, he rebounded well, his effort on the glass needs to be more consistent. Additionally, many of his matchups were younger and physically less developed, making it easier for him to dominate.
Noah Penda (2005, PF/SF, Le Mans)
Height: 6’7” | Weight: 245 lbs | Wingspan: 6’11”
Noah Penda was the standout player at the Young All-Star Game, showing elite two-way potential. His high motor on both ends of the floor and ability to guard multiple positions (1-4) make him an impactful defender. Offensively, Penda’s court vision and feel for the game stand out, a result of his background as a point guard. He excels in transition, crashes the boards, and makes smart decisions in half-court sets.
Physically, Penda’s NBA-ready frame, agility, and length allow him to dominate inside while staying versatile on the perimeter. However, his three-point shooting needs work, as his release is slow and inconsistent. Additionally, improving his conditioning and refining his body will enhance his explosiveness and stamina.
Mohamed Diawara (2005, PF, Cholet)
Height: 6’8” | Weight: 227 lbs | Wingspan: 7’4”
Mohamed Diawara was the second-best player on the floor at the Young All-Star Game, displaying an impressive mix of size, skill, and athleticism. At 6’8” with a 7’4” wingspan, he has the physical tools to dominate on both ends. Diawara runs the floor exceptionally well for his size, using his strength and body control to finish at the rim. He’s also a consistent three-point shooter, showing range and confidence from beyond the arc.
However, questions remain about whether his game will translate to the next level. Many of his matchups in this game were younger and less physically developed. Additionally, he needs to improve his speed and work on playing off the ball, as most of his scoring came in coast-to-coast situations or with the ball in his hands.
Roman Domon (2005, SF, Gravelines)
Height: 6’8” | Wingspan: 6’6” | Weight: 210 lbs
Roman Domon is a versatile forward with a solid presence on both ends of the floor. His 6’8” frame and athleticism allow him to score efficiently, particularly with a reliable mid-range jumper and strength inside. He has the potential to play multiple positions, showing two-way upside.
However, Domon needs to improve his ball-handling and ability to create offense for himself, as he struggles to break down defenses off the dribble. His footwork is slow, and he must get stronger to handle more physical matchups. Defensively, his mobility could also be improved.
Paul Mbiya (2005, C, Asvel)
Height: 6’10” | Wingspan: 7’8” | Weight: 240 lbs
Paul Mbiya is a physical specimen with elite physical tools, standing at 6’10” with an incredible 7’8” wingspan and a solid 240- pound frame. At the combine, he impressed with his smooth shooting release and surprising speed for a player his size. While his in-game impact was limited, Mbiya’s combination of size, length, and mobility gives him the potential to be a defensive force at the next level.
Evan Boisdur (2005, PG, Gravelines)
Height: 6’0” | Wingspan: 6’6” | Weight: 170 lbs
Evan Boisdur is a solid point guard with impressive athleticism for his size. His 6’6” wingspan allows him to play bigger than his height, giving him an edge on both ends of the floor. Boisdur is a consistent shooter who can space the floor effectively and provide offensive stability for his team. His athleticism and control make him a dynamic playmaker with potential to grow further.
However, his size at 6’0” could be a limitation at higher levels. To succeed, Boidur will need to add more explosiveness to his game, which would make him more effective as a scorer and finisher. Defensively, he must apply more ball pressure to maximize the potential his length provides.
Maxence Lemoine (2007, PG/SG, Strasbourg)
Height: 6’1” | Wingspan: 6’5” | Weight: 180 lbs
Maxence Lemoine plays with a great deal of patience and poise, never rushing his decisions and always looking to make the right play. He’s a skilled shooter with a crafty, combo guard style, and his solid fundamentals help him effectively hide his athletic limitations. His IQ and ability to read the game allow him to make smart plays and create for others.
The main concern for Lemoine is his defensive ability at the next level. He will need to prove that he can guard quicker, stronger opponents consistently. His length helps, but he must improve his lateral movement and positioning to succeed defensively against higher-level competition.
Jahel Trefle (2007, C, Strasbourg)
Height: 6’9” | Wingspan: 6’9” | Weight: 215 lbs
Jahel Trefle is an athletic big with the size and tools that fit well in today’s style of play. Standing at 6’9” with a 6’9” wingspan and weighing 215 lbs, he runs the floor impressively for his size and has a strong rebounding motor. His athleticism allows him to contribute in transition and on both ends of the court, making him an effective presence around the rim.
However, Trefel needs to add more post moves and refine his offensive game. His ability to score in the half-court could improve with more variety in his moves. Additionally, a more consistent jump shot will make him a more versatile and dangerous offensive threat.
Hugo Yimga-Moukouri (2008, SF/PF, INSEP)
Height: 6’7” | Weight: 220 lbs
Hugo Yimga-Moukouri was one of the most impressive players in the event, despite being only 16 years old. His high motor, physicality, and poise stood out against older competition. At 6’7” and 220 pounds, he uses his strength effectively to get to the basket and finish through contact. He also showcased consistency as a shooter, which is promising given his youth and room for growth.
However, his style of play can sometimes appear robotic, lacking fluidity and creativity. He also needs to improve his ball- handling, which would allow him to create his own shot and attack the basket more effectively. Currently, much of his offense is reliant on his strength rather than finesse or skill.
Cameron Houindo (2008, C/PF, INSEP)
Height: 6’9” | Wingspan: 7’1” | Weight: 240 lbs
Cameron Houindo is a physical presence with a solid frame and good length, standing at 6’9” with a 7’1” wingspan. While he didn’t show much during the event, his performance at the combine was promising. He displayed a smooth shooting form and the ability to use his strength effectively in his play. Houindo also has a strong motor, which allows him to stay active on both ends of the floor.
Despite the limited sample size, his combination of size, strength, and shooting potential makes him a player to watch as he continues to develop.
Nathan Soliman (2009, PF/SF, INSEP)
Height: 6’8” | Wingspan: 7’1” | Weight: 210 lbs
Nathan Soliman, the youngest player at the event, impressed with his poise and skillset. Standing at 6’8” with a 7’1” wingspan, he showcased great spacing, a smooth shooting form, and a high basketball IQ. Soliman lets the game come to him, rarely forcing plays, which speaks to his maturity and feel for the game.
However, Soliman needs to focus on playing lower to improve his balance and explosiveness, which will make it easier for him to beat defenders off the dribble. Additionally, improving his speed will be crucial as he develops, though this should come naturally as he continues to grow and mature physically.
January 21st, Levallois, France, held the Young Star Game, an event where many of the most coveted French prospects born between 2003 and 2009 showcased their talents. Our Collaborator, Jonathan Dogbo, attended the game and was also at the combine celebrated the day before, and tells us more about what he saw.
Nathan De Sousa (2003, PG, Cholet)
Height: 6’3” | Wingspan: 6’4”
Nathan De Sousa is a poised playmaking point guard who plays with excellent pacing and control. Standing at 6’3” with a 6’4” wingspan, he has a smooth shooting form, although his shots didn’t fall consistently during the event. De Sousa’s strength lies in his ability to create for others and facilitate the offense, showcasing a high IQ and strong decision-making skills.
While scoring isn’t his primary focus, refining his shooting consistency could make him a more balanced threat. With his
composure and playmaking ability, De Sousa projects as a reliable floor general with room to grow offensively.
Zacharie Perrin (2004, C, SLUC Nancy)
Height: 6’9” | Wingspan: 7’1” | Weight: 235 lbs
Zacharie Perrin had a solid performance, displaying strong fundamentals and offensive skill. He has soft hands around the rim, making him an efficient finisher, and he complements that with a reliable mid-range jumper, adding versatility to his scoring. Perrin’s size and 7’1” wingspan give him a natural advantage in the post and on the boards.
However, there are concerns about his defensive mobility. He needs to improve his footwork to better guard quicker players and handle pick-and-roll situations. His conditioning and stamina also need work, he rebounded well, his effort on the glass needs to be more consistent. Additionally, many of his matchups were younger and physically less developed, making it easier for him to dominate.
Noah Penda (2005, PF/SF, Le Mans)
Height: 6’7” | Weight: 245 lbs | Wingspan: 6’11”
Noah Penda was the standout player at the Young All-Star Game, showing elite two-way potential. His high motor on both ends of the floor and ability to guard multiple positions (1-4) make him an impactful defender. Offensively, Penda’s court vision and feel for the game stand out, a result of his background as a point guard. He excels in transition, crashes the boards, and makes smart decisions in half-court sets.
Physically, Penda’s NBA-ready frame, agility, and length allow him to dominate inside while staying versatile on the perimeter. However, his three-point shooting needs work, as his release is slow and inconsistent. Additionally, improving his conditioning and refining his body will enhance his explosiveness and stamina.
Mohamed Diawara (2005, PF, Cholet)
Height: 6’8” | Weight: 227 lbs | Wingspan: 7’4”
Mohamed Diawara was the second-best player on the floor at the Young All-Star Game, displaying an impressive mix of size, skill, and athleticism. At 6’8” with a 7’4” wingspan, he has the physical tools to dominate on both ends. Diawara runs the floor exceptionally well for his size, using his strength and body control to finish at the rim. He’s also a consistent three-point shooter, showing range and confidence from beyond the arc.
However, questions remain about whether his game will translate to the next level. Many of his matchups in this game were younger and less physically developed. Additionally, he needs to improve his speed and work on playing off the ball, as most of his scoring came in coast-to-coast situations or with the ball in his hands.
Roman Domon (2005, SF, Gravelines)
Height: 6’8” | Wingspan: 6’6” | Weight: 210 lbs
Roman Domon is a versatile forward with a solid presence on both ends of the floor. His 6’8” frame and athleticism allow him to score efficiently, particularly with a reliable mid-range jumper and strength inside. He has the potential to play multiple positions, showing two-way upside.
However, Domon needs to improve his ball-handling and ability to create offense for himself, as he struggles to break down defenses off the dribble. His footwork is slow, and he must get stronger to handle more physical matchups. Defensively, his mobility could also be improved.
Paul Mbiya (2005, C, Asvel)
Height: 6’10” | Wingspan: 7’8” | Weight: 240 lbs
Paul Mbiya is a physical specimen with elite physical tools, standing at 6’10” with an incredible 7’8” wingspan and a solid 240- pound frame. At the combine, he impressed with his smooth shooting release and surprising speed for a player his size. While his in-game impact was limited, Mbiya’s combination of size, length, and mobility gives him the potential to be a defensive force at the next level.
Evan Boisdur (2005, PG, Gravelines)
Height: 6’0” | Wingspan: 6’6” | Weight: 170 lbs
Evan Boisdur is a solid point guard with impressive athleticism for his size. His 6’6” wingspan allows him to play bigger than his height, giving him an edge on both ends of the floor. Boisdur is a consistent shooter who can space the floor effectively and provide offensive stability for his team. His athleticism and control make him a dynamic playmaker with potential to grow further.
However, his size at 6’0” could be a limitation at higher levels. To succeed, Boidur will need to add more explosiveness to his game, which would make him more effective as a scorer and finisher. Defensively, he must apply more ball pressure to maximize the potential his length provides.
Maxence Lemoine (2007, PG/SG, Strasbourg)
Height: 6’1” | Wingspan: 6’5” | Weight: 180 lbs
Maxence Lemoine plays with a great deal of patience and poise, never rushing his decisions and always looking to make the right play. He’s a skilled shooter with a crafty, combo guard style, and his solid fundamentals help him effectively hide his athletic limitations. His IQ and ability to read the game allow him to make smart plays and create for others.
The main concern for Lemoine is his defensive ability at the next level. He will need to prove that he can guard quicker, stronger opponents consistently. His length helps, but he must improve his lateral movement and positioning to succeed defensively against higher-level competition.
Jahel Trefle (2007, C, Strasbourg)
Height: 6’9” | Wingspan: 6’9” | Weight: 215 lbs
Jahel Trefle is an athletic big with the size and tools that fit well in today’s style of play. Standing at 6’9” with a 6’9” wingspan and weighing 215 lbs, he runs the floor impressively for his size and has a strong rebounding motor. His athleticism allows him to contribute in transition and on both ends of the court, making him an effective presence around the rim.
However, Trefel needs to add more post moves and refine his offensive game. His ability to score in the half-court could improve with more variety in his moves. Additionally, a more consistent jump shot will make him a more versatile and dangerous offensive threat.
Hugo Yimga-Moukouri (2008, SF/PF, INSEP)
Height: 6’7” | Weight: 220 lbs
Hugo Yimga-Moukouri was one of the most impressive players in the event, despite being only 16 years old. His high motor, physicality, and poise stood out against older competition. At 6’7” and 220 pounds, he uses his strength effectively to get to the basket and finish through contact. He also showcased consistency as a shooter, which is promising given his youth and room for growth.
However, his style of play can sometimes appear robotic, lacking fluidity and creativity. He also needs to improve his ball- handling, which would allow him to create his own shot and attack the basket more effectively. Currently, much of his offense is reliant on his strength rather than finesse or skill.
Cameron Houindo (2008, C/PF, INSEP)
Height: 6’9” | Wingspan: 7’1” | Weight: 240 lbs
Cameron Houindo is a physical presence with a solid frame and good length, standing at 6’9” with a 7’1” wingspan. While he didn’t show much during the event, his performance at the combine was promising. He displayed a smooth shooting form and the ability to use his strength effectively in his play. Houindo also has a strong motor, which allows him to stay active on both ends of the floor.
Despite the limited sample size, his combination of size, strength, and shooting potential makes him a player to watch as he continues to develop.
Nathan Soliman (2009, PF/SF, INSEP)
Height: 6’8” | Wingspan: 7’1” | Weight: 210 lbs
Nathan Soliman, the youngest player at the event, impressed with his poise and skillset. Standing at 6’8” with a 7’1” wingspan, he showcased great spacing, a smooth shooting form, and a high basketball IQ. Soliman lets the game come to him, rarely forcing plays, which speaks to his maturity and feel for the game.
However, Soliman needs to focus on playing lower to improve his balance and explosiveness, which will make it easier for him to beat defenders off the dribble. Additionally, improving his speed will be crucial as he develops, though this should come naturally as he continues to grow and mature physically.
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