Mackenzie Mgbako battles Bronny James at Nike Hoop Summit

Nigerian prospect Mackenzie Mgbako holds in own against the highly rated Bronny James

At the weekend men's Nike Hoop Summit game, a USA Basketball team comprised of the best high school seniors in the country defeated a World squad comprised of international players age 19 or younger, 90-84.

The game was entertaining and the USA team were led by Bronny firstborn son of NBA superstar LeBron James.

The World team were led by a highly rated youngsters of Nigerian descent Mackenzie Mgbako.

Bronny James shines at Nike Hoop Summit

Bronny James recently wrapped up his high school campaign with monster dunks at the McDonald's All-American showcase.

The All-time NBA top scorer, his wife Savannah, and daughter Zhuri came out to support their Bronny.

James played in his last high school game today. He finished on a high note and demonstrated that he belongs playing with some of the best talent in his class under the scrutiny of media and public opinion.

James, who is currently a top-50 recruit, had added motivation to succeed at all-star activities over the past few weeks because some people thought he was only chosen because of his father. 

He demonstrated more than enough over the past two weeks to demonstrate that he belongs with his class's top students.

James had just put up a terrific showing at the McDonald's All-American Game, shooting 5-for-8 from outside the arc for 15 points and 4 assists. 

At the Hoop Summit, He didn't have the best shooting night as finished with 11 points and 4 rebounds despite making just 1 of 4 3-point attempts and was solid defensively.

Speaking after the game, Bronny explained what his father told him and reinforced the fact that he is willing to contribute in other aspects of the game when his shots are not falling.

He said, "Basically just saying keep playing my game because he knows what I'm capable of doing. He just wants to see it out of me.

"I just always try to stay confident in myself, even if I'm missing shots in the beginning of the game like I was.

"I just try to keep my head up and keep playing my game. I know good things are going to come because good things come with the lows. I'm happy with the results of it."

Mackenzie Mgbako representing Nigeria shines for Team World 

Mackenzie Mgbako a youngster of Nigerian descent was among the top high school recruits that did well at the Hoop Summit.

Mgbako, a basketball player for Duke who committed, was simple to miss in the McDonald's All-American Game a fortnight ago. He had a scoreless performance, made no field goals, and pulled down just two rebounds in 15 minutes of action.

Mgbako was the top scorer in the talented Nike Hoop Summit exhibition, which pitted Team USA against Team World at the Moda Center in Portland. He displayed pro-like shaking and shooting beyond the arc.

Although Team World lost 90-84, the 6-foot-8, 215-pound five-star small forward, whose father is Nigerian, played 31 minutes and finished with 22 points and a team-high eight rebounds. He made 6-of-14 field goals, 2-of-5 three-pointers, and 8-of-10 free throws.

After his performance at the Hoop Summit, Mgbako declared to be released from his National of Intent as he intends to reopen his recruitment.

He said, "After long thought, prayers, and discussions with my parents and trusted advisors, I am writing to formally request from my NLI to Duke University.

"While I have great appreciation and respect for the Duke coaching staff and fans or their interest in me, I feel that there will be other places for me to continue my basketball journey, so I will be re-opening the recruiting process to all schools.

"Sending a big thanks to all my supporters, friends, and family for continuing to show love."

Mgabko continues to be one of the most talented prospects for the 2024 NBA Draft.

He is eligible to play for the Nigerian senior men's national team known as D'Tigers in the future.

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