In a thrilling championship game at the first-ever Players ERA Festival, the Oregon Ducks clinched a nail-biting 83-81 victory over Alabama, highlighted by a game-winning put back dunk from former Prolific Prep standout Nate Bittle. The festival, held in Las Vegas, featured six alumni from The Grind Session, the elite high school hoop circuit taking part in the game.
The Ducks and Crimson Tide engaged in a high-paced, back-and-forth contest, treating fans to an unforgettable display of skill and athleticism. Both teams traded leads throughout the game, with Alabama’s explosive offense countering Oregon’s relentless defensive pressure.
Bittle, a senior, has consistently showcased his growth since his Grind Session days, delivered the decisive moment in the final seconds. After a missed shot, he soared above the Alabama defenders for a thunderous put back slam, sealing the win for Oregon. Bittle finished with 19 points and nine rebounds. His performance not only cemented the Ducks’ victory but also underscored the lasting impact of the Grind Session in shaping basketball stars. Prolific Prep founder Philippe Doherty said “Nate Bittle had a fantastic senior year with Prolific Prep which was the 2020-2021 season which was spent primarily in the Grind Session bubble and ended with GEICO Nationals. Nate possesses great skill for his 7’0” size and his skill was on full display his senior year making 3’s and initiating offense and changing / altering shots on defense with 7’5” wingspan. Nate had fantastic coaching growing up starting with the mentoring by his parents Ryan and Sue Bittle and his coach at Crater High School. Nate’s 2020-2021 Prolific Prep team might have been one of the best shooting teams in Prolific Prep history led by Stefan Todorovic and Jordan Pope and aided by Nate Bittle.” Two other members of the Ducks squad also participated on the Grind Session, senior Mookie Cook, from Az Compass and freshman Jamari Phillips played at Dream City Christian.
The Crimson Tide features three players who gained valuable experience playing high school basketball on the Grind Session. All three were members of the elite prep school in Napa, Ca., Prolific Prep. Sophomore Aden Holloway had 11 points and five assists in 24 minutes of playing time. Freshman Derrion Reid contributed three points and a rebound in 13 minutes of play and freshman Aiden Sherrell added a rebound in four minutes of action. Prolific Prep head coach Ryan Bernardi said “We are very proud of Aden, Aiden and Derrion. Three players who were well raised and played at a high level for us during their year at Prolific Prep. All 3 were McDonald’s All Americans during their senior year and they continue to represent Prolific Prep at a very high level. They are prepared for the trials and tribulations of the SEC due to the competition they faced in the Grind Session and the peer stimulation on a daily basis.”
Beyond this game, the Grind Session featured their regular-season event, allowing fans to see the next generation of rising talent. Several former Grind Session players were on hand to reflect on their journeys, providing inspiration to the young athletes in attendance.
The Players ERA Festival delivered on its promise to celebrate the rich legacy of high school basketball while showcasing the best of today’s college stars. The event’s debut was a slam dunk, leaving fans excited for what’s to come.
