Taylen Kinney, a rising basketball star and Kentucky recruit, will be showcasing his skills on an international stage later this month in Abu Dhabi. Kinney, a highly touted point guard, has been making waves in the basketball world and will be participating in the prestigious Adidas Next Generation EuroLeague (ANGE) tournament from May 22 to May 25, 2025. This tournament will see the young prospect represent Overtime Elite (OTE), the league dedicated to developing top basketball talent through unique training and exposure opportunities.
Kentucky Recruit : Kinney’s Journey to OTE
Before securing a place in the ANGE tournament, Kinney made a name for himself in the world of high school basketball. Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 174 pounds, Kinney plays as a point guard, making him a dynamic force on both ends of the court. His vision, passing ability, and scoring touch make him one of the most exciting prospects in the 2026 recruiting class. He has excelled in every aspect of his game, including his decision-making, floor awareness, and defensive intensity.
Kinney’s commitment to Overtime Elite has further amplified his visibility in the basketball world. OTE has become known for offering a unique alternative to traditional high school basketball, allowing top young athletes to bypass college in favor of a more professional route, where they get to train at an elite level, while also earning a salary. In the 2024-25 season, Kinney played for the Rod Wave Elite (RWE) team within OTE and made an immediate impact. Throughout the season, he posted impressive stats, averaging 20.1 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game. His standout performances contributed to his place as a runner-up for the OTE MVP award, underscoring his ability to compete at the highest levels.
One of the most impressive aspects of Kinney’s performance in the OTE league was his shooting efficiency. With a remarkable 63.1% true shooting percentage, he set the record for the highest-ever true shooting percentage by a guard in OTE history. This not only reflects his scoring prowess but also his smart shot selection and ability to execute under pressure. His performances have not only been a treat for basketball fans but have also made him a top recruit for several college basketball programs across the country.
The Importance of the ANGE Tournament
The Adidas Next Generation EuroLeague (ANGE) tournament is a highly competitive event that brings together the best youth teams from across Europe and the world. For OTE, this marks an essential opportunity to continue showcasing its top talent on an international platform. OTE has already made a name for itself in global basketball circles, and the ANGE tournament serves as the perfect stage for rising stars like Kinney to prove themselves against some of the most talented players from around the globe.
The 2024 ANGE tournament is set to take place in Abu Dhabi, UAE, from May 22 to May 25. This marks the second consecutive year that OTE has sent a team to participate in the prestigious tournament. Last year, OTE made a strong showing, defeating FC Barcelona 102-98 in an exhilarating game that showcased their competitive edge and determination. This year, OTE’s roster is packed with talent, with Kinney highlighted as one of the standout players representing the league.
OTE’s Roster and the Tournament Schedule
For the 2025 ANGE tournament, OTE will send a roster that includes some of the top prospects in the world, and Kinney is at the forefront of this squad. His inclusion in the tournament roster highlights not just his individual talent but also his role as a future cornerstone for OTE. The team’s participation in the tournament provides invaluable exposure for the players, many of whom will likely be college-bound or even eyeing the NBA in the future.
The tournament schedule for OTE during the ANGE event is as follows:
- Thursday, May 22: Overtime Elite vs. Real Madrid at 8:45 AM ET
- Friday, May 23: Overtime Elite vs. Pole France INSEP Paris at 8:45 AM ET
- Saturday, May 24: Overtime Elite vs. Zalgiris Kaunas at 8:45 AM ET
All games will be streamed live on OTE’s official YouTube channel, providing basketball fans worldwide an opportunity to watch these young players in action. These matchups will be crucial not just for the development of the athletes but also for OTE’s global reputation, as the league continues to compete with Europe’s top programs.
Kinney’s Recruitment Journey
Kinney’s excellent performances in OTE have caught the attention of many top college basketball programs, with the University of Kentucky being one of the most prominent schools interested in securing his services. Kentucky’s head coach, Mark Pope, has shown a keen interest in Kinney and made him a priority recruit for the 2026 class. Kinney was offered a scholarship by Kentucky last summer, and the two have been in regular contact since then.
Assistant coaches Jason Hart and Cody Fueger from the Kentucky staff even visited Kinney’s home last month to discuss his potential future with the Wildcats. This ongoing relationship underscores Kentucky’s commitment to bringing in top-tier talent, and Kinney is seen as a major part of the team’s future. Kinney has also taken official visits to other schools such as Purdue and is planning to visit Kentucky and Louisville in the near future. His recruitment remains open, and the upcoming ANGE tournament could play a pivotal role in his decision-making process.
Kinney’s Skills and Potential
Taylen Kinney is not just an athlete with raw talent; he is a highly skilled player with a well-rounded game that allows him to excel in various facets of basketball. His passing ability stands out, and he is adept at running an offense, setting up teammates, and making smart decisions with the basketball. As a point guard, Kinney is also known for his exceptional court vision, which allows him to create opportunities for others.
Kinney’s scoring ability is another area where he shines. Whether it’s driving to the basket or hitting mid-range shots, he has a versatile offensive game that makes him difficult to defend. His impressive shooting numbers from his time at OTE, including his high true shooting percentage, further reflect his scoring efficiency and intelligence on the court.
Defensively, Kinney’s quickness and tenacity make him a formidable opponent. He can guard multiple positions and is known for his ability to disrupt passing lanes, which makes him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor. These qualities make him a well-rounded prospect with the potential to make an immediate impact at the next level, whether that’s in college basketball or beyond.
What Lies Ahead for Kinney
As Kinney heads into the ANGE tournament, his focus will be on continuing to refine his game and compete against some of the best young players in the world. The exposure from this international competition will undoubtedly serve as a boost to his development, but it will also place him under the watchful eyes of college scouts, NBA scouts, and basketball fans around the globe. The tournament will be a defining moment in his career and could help him solidify his status as one of the top recruits in the 2026 class.
For basketball fans and scouts alike, Kinney’s performance in the ANGE tournament will be one to watch. His mix of athleticism, skill, and basketball IQ makes him a player with immense potential. With a promising future ahead of him, Taylen Kinney’s journey is just beginning, and the ANGE tournament in Abu Dhabi is set to be an exciting chapter in his ascent to stardom.
As Kinney continues to rise through the ranks of youth basketball, his international debut will be a crucial milestone in his career. Whether it leads to a future in college basketball or a step toward the professional ranks, one thing is clear: Taylen Kinney is a name to remember in the world of basketball.
Do follow Uae stories for more Updates
IndiGo Expands UAE to Kerala Flights in 2025—Full Details Inside
