Defensive Standouts from the Bearcat Classic
Written by Luke Harrington
Defensive Standouts
Jean-Claude L’Homme | 2026 | 6’1 G | Fishers (IN) | AAU: Midwest Pumas Gold
Contagious energy emanates from Fishers’ 2026 G Jean-Claude L’Homme, as his defensive prowess helped his team to a 20 point comeback victory Sunday in the semi-finals. L’Homme is constantly making the opponent uncomfortable with his ball pressure and gap presence, which results in many easy scores in transition for him and his teammates. The pesky junior is also unselfish as he is always encouraging his teammates even from the bench. Athleticism and scoring ability is a strength of his as well, as he is fearless attacking the rim and collecting rebound putbacks over taller players consistently. L’Homme is a flat out winner, helping Fishers to an Indiana state runner up finish, and I expect college coaches to see that throughout the AAU season as well.
Cayden Penha | 2026 | 6’4 G | Fairfield Christian | AAU: Ohio Saints
The length and athletic ability of the small school Junior is obvious when you watch him play, but his ability to use his length defensively is what stood out on Saturday. Pehna can guard 1-5, and is constantly harassing whoever is attempting to handle the rock. His wingspan allows him to steal the ball on crossovers, leading to easy points and the occasional dunk at the other end. He’s also a good shot blocker, and has a motor that lasts until late in the game. This reliable prospect has the length and ability to compete at the next level, and has the genetics to do it being the brother of former Ohio hoops star CJ Penha. Although very underrated across the state, I expect Penha to turn heads playing for a strong Ohio Saints team on the E40 circuit this spring and summer.
Chisom Ibe | 2026 | 6’4 F | Northmont | AAU: Midwest Pumas Gold
The best defender I saw all weekend with no doubt 6’4 F Chisom Ibe from Northmont. Ibe’s motor and athleticism were a key catalyst for his team all weekend, as he has incredible footwork, instincts, and athleticism that causes fits for his opponents. He is devastating in traps, shot blocking, and creating transition simply by having active hands at all times. Ibe had several monster pins off of the backboard that ended up in runouts at the other end, as he always seems to keep the shots he blocks inbounds. The rising Junior also has good finishing skills around the rim with his left hand, and can dunk in transition with ease. This little known prospect will be a steal at the next level, and with improved offensive skills, could work himself into a scholarship situation at some point.