The Influential Group, Author at Kam Mercer

A Growing Collection: Mercer Adds North Carolina State to Impressive Offer List

July 22, 2025 The Influential Group

The recruitment of Kameron Mercer, one of the most exciting young talents in the Class of 2028, continues to escalate with an official offer today from North Carolina State University. This latest addition signifies the widespread recognition of Mercer’s burgeoning potential and places him firmly on the radar of some of college basketball’s most storied programs.

Mercer, a 6-foot-5 guard from Cincinnati, Ohio, has quickly become a national name due to his advanced skill set and mature on-court presence. This official offer from the Wolfpack joins an already impressive list of suitors, including Cincinnati, Georgia State, Louisville, Missouri, Ohio State, and Xavier.

Let’s take a brief look at some of the esteemed programs that are actively pursuing Kameron:

North Carolina State University: The newest offer comes from the ACC’s NC State Wolfpack. NC State boasts a rich basketball history, including two NCAA National Championships in 1974 under Norm Sloan and the famous “Cardiac Pack” of 1983 led by the legendary Jim Valvano. Their storied past, combined with a passionate fan base, makes them a significant contender for any recruit.
University of Cincinnati: A local powerhouse for Mercer, the Cincinnati Bearcats have a proud tradition with two NCAA National Championships in 1961 and 1962, featuring the iconic Oscar Robertson. Known for their grit and defensive intensity, the Bearcats consistently field competitive teams.
University of Louisville: The Cardinals, another historical giant, have claimed three NCAA National Championships (1980, 1986, and a vacated 2013 title) and boast a fervent fan base in a basketball-crazed city. Their tradition of excellence and ability to attract top talent makes them a perennial factor in recruiting.
University of Missouri: The Missouri Tigers, now in the SEC, have a history of strong showings in the Big Eight and Big 12 conferences. While they haven’t reached a Final Four, they have been a consistent NCAA Tournament participant and produce NBA-level talent.
Ohio State University: A Big Ten stalwart, the Ohio State Buckeyes won a National Championship in 1960 and have made numerous Final Four appearances. With a dedicated fan base and a strong academic reputation, Columbus offers a compelling package for student-athletes.
Xavier University: Also hailing from Cincinnati, the Xavier Musketeers have carved out a reputation as a perennial NCAA Tournament team, particularly in recent decades. Their success in the Atlantic 10 and now the Big East demonstrates their commitment to high-level basketball.
Georgia State University: The Panthers, members of the Sun Belt Conference, have made a name for themselves with several exciting NCAA Tournament appearances and conference championships in recent years, showcasing a growing program on the rise.

Despite the mounting attention and the caliber of programs extending offers, Kameron Mercer remains notably humble about the entire process. “It’s an honor to receive these offers from such prestigious universities with incredible basketball histories,” Mercer stated. “I’m truly grateful for the interest these coaches and programs are showing in me.”

It’s important to remember that Mercer is only just beginning his sophomore year of high school. This early flurry of high-major offers speaks volumes about his projection as an elite prospect. For the upcoming season, Mercer will be continuing his development with RWE (Rod Wave Elite) in the highly competitive Overtime Elite (OTE) league in Atlanta, Georgia. This platform will provide him with invaluable experience against other top-tier young talent, further refining his game.

As Kam navigates his early high school career and the evolving recruitment landscape, he emphasized his focus on continuous improvement. “This is just the beginning,” Mercer added. “I’m looking forward to continuing to work hard, develop my game, and explore all my options as the recruitment process unfolds.”

The basketball world will undoubtedly be watching Mercer’s journey closely, eager to see where this talented young athlete will ultimately decide to take his game at the collegiate level. For now, he’s taking it all in stride, one prestigious offer at a time.

Kam Mercer Shines as Indy Heat Claims EYBL Peach Jam U16 Championship!

July 20, 2025 The Influential Group

The Riverview Activities Center was buzzing on July 20, 2025, as the Indy Heat U16 squad cemented their place in Nike EYBL history, capturing the coveted Peach Jam Championship! At the heart of their triumphant run was the stellar play of Kam Mercer, whose all-around contributions proved invaluable in Indy Heat’s dominant performance.

Mercer, a dynamic guard, showcased his versatility throughout the tournament, averaging an impressive 10.8 points per game, 5.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds. His ability to score, distribute, and crash the boards made him a true triple threat and a nightmare for opposing teams to defend. Kam’s calm demeanor under pressure and his knack for making the right play at crucial moments were pivotal to Indy Heat’s success.

The road to the championship was paved with hard-fought victories, where Indy Heat consistently rose to the occasion. They kicked off their championship bracket journey with a thrilling 76-75 victory over a tough Meanstreets team, demonstrating their grit and determination from the outset.

Next up, they faced JL3 in what was another test of their resolve. Indy Heat once again proved their mettle, securing a convincing 76-67 win and showcasing their offensive firepower.

However, the most dominant performance was saved for the championship game against the Florida Rebels. In a display of sheer dominance, Indy Heat controlled the game from start to finish, ultimately cruising to a 68-53 victory to claim the Peach Jam U16 title! Kam Mercer’s fingerprints were all over this emphatic win, as he continued to facilitate the offense with 7 assists, creating opportunities for his teammates, and across the stat sheet.

Kam Mercer’s exceptional performance at the EYBL Peach Jam U16 Championship undoubtedly solidified his reputation as one of the most promising young talents in the nation. His leadership, skill, and unwavering commitment to his team were instrumental in Indy Heat’s memorable championship run. The future is incredibly bright for Kam Mercer, and we can’t wait to see what he accomplishes next!

Kam Mercer Presents His Inaugural Backpack Giveaway!

July 8, 2025 The Influential Group

Cincinnati, get ready to kick off the school year right! Local basketball standout, Kameron Mercer is giving back to the community by hosting his Inaugural Backpack Giveaway, powered by Twenty Four Apparel. This exciting event aims to equip students with the essential supplies they need for a successful academic year.

When & Where:

Mark your calendars for Friday, August 2, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM! The giveaway will be held at Winton Woods High School, located at 1231 West Kemper Road, Cincinnati, OH 45240.

Who Can Attend?

This fantastic opportunity is open to all students enrolled and entering Kindergarten through 8th grade. We want to make sure every young learner has the resources they need to thrive!

What to Expect:

Beyond receiving a free backpack filled with school supplies, attendees can look forward to a vibrant and fun atmosphere! This event is all about celebrating our students and community.

Important Notes:

Child must be present and accompanied by an adult to receive a backpack.
Backpacks will be given out on a first-come, first-serve basis, so be sure to arrive early!
Get ready for music, fun, and FREE school supplies!

A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:

This event wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our sponsors:

Twenty Four Apparel (Powering the event!)
Team 24 Community
Taste The Soul
Pahhni Water

For More Information:

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact:

Amber Smith at 623-205-0537 or by email at info@team-24.org

Let’s make the Inaugural Backpack Giveaway a huge success and empower our students for a great school year! We can’t wait to see you there!

A New Era: Kameron Mercer Forges Groundbreaking NIL Partnership with Panini America

July 2, 2025 The Influential Group

We’re thrilled to share monumental news that marks a significant milestone in Kameron Mercer’s burgeoning career! The Overtime Elite 6-foot-5 point guard, a standout former Winton Woods Middle School star and currently ranked as the nation’s No. 6 player in the 2028 class, has officially inked a multi-year, multi-million dollar Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with Panini America.

This groundbreaking agreement, confirmed by Panini America’s Head of Basketball Licensing, Tone Stakes, signifies an unprecedented commitment to a high school athlete in the evolving NIL landscape. The announcement, initially shared by Kameron’s father, Craig Mercer, highlights a powerful belief in Kameron’s immense potential both on and off the court.

For Panini America, a global leader based in Irving, Texas, renowned for its officially licensed sports collectibles including trading cards, stickers, and magazines, this partnership represents a strategic investment in the future of basketball. Panini’s extensive portfolio covers major sports leagues like the NBA, NFL, and FIFA, making this collaboration a natural fit for an athlete poised to become a household name.

This partnership opens exciting avenues for fans and collectors. Kameron, just 15 years old, expressed his enthusiasm for signing autographs, bringing a personal touch to future Panini products. Enthusiasts can anticipate seeing Kameron Mercer potentially featured in a Panini basketball product as early as the first quarter of 2026, offering a tangible piece of his journey to stardom.

Kameron’s father, Craig Mercer, shared his profound gratitude for Panini’s faith in his son, while also emphasizing that “The work isn’t done.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates Kameron’s dedication and drive, even as he celebrates such a monumental achievement.

This NIL deal with Panini America is more than just a contract; it’s a testament to Kameron Mercer’s talent, marketability, and the pioneering spirit of a new generation of athletes. We invite you to continue following Kameron’s journey as he makes history, both on the court and in the dynamic world of sports endorsements and collectibles.

Springdale Honors Rising Star Kameron Mercer with Key to the City

July 2, 2025 The Influential Group

In a heartwarming ceremony recognizing his outstanding achievements and positive impact, Kameron Mercer, the exceptional basketball talent with deep roots in the region, was recently honored with the Key to the City of Springdale, Ohio. This prestigious recognition celebrates Mercer’s accomplishments on the national stage, including his gold medal win with the USA Basketball Men’s U16 National Team and his groundbreaking NIL partnership with Panini America, while acknowledging his continued connection to his local community.

The ceremony, held in Springdale, brought together community leaders, family, and friends to recognize Mercer. The Key to the City is a symbolic gesture representing the highest honor a municipality can bestow upon an individual, signifying trust, appreciation, and a welcoming embrace. For Kameron, who honed his early skills in the area, this honor underscores the pride and support he garners from his local community.

“It’s truly an honor to receive this recognition from the City of Springdale,” shared Kameron Mercer. “This community has played a significant role in my journey, and I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve always felt here. This key is not just for me, but for everyone who has believed in me and helped me get to this point.”

The Mayor of Springdale highlighted Mercer’s dedication, sportsmanship, and the positive inspiration he provides to the youth in the community. His achievements serve as a powerful example of what can be accomplished through hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. From his stellar performances on the court to his engagement with young athletes at his recent basketball camp held at nearby Winton Woods High School, Kameron embodies the values that Springdale cherishes.

This recognition further solidifies Kameron Mercer’s position as not only a rising star in the basketball world but also a cherished figure in his local community. The Key to the City of Springdale is a testament to his remarkable journey and the bright future that lies ahead. We congratulate Kameron on this well-deserved honor and look forward to witnessing his continued success.

Kameron Mercer: A Golden Contribution to USA’s FIBA U16 AmeriCup Victory

June 9, 2025 The Influential Group

The basketball world is buzzing about Kameron Mercer, and for good reason! This rising star played a pivotal role in the USA Men’s U16 National Team’s dominant run to the gold medal at the 2025 FIBA U16 Men’s AmeriCup. Mercer’s contributions off the bench were instrumental in securing the championship, showcasing his versatile skill set and impact on the court.

Throughout the tournament, Mercer consistently delivered for Team USA, demonstrating why he’s considered one of the most exciting talents in his age group. In six games, he averaged an impressive 5.8 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.2 steals, proving his ability to influence the game on both ends of the floor. His defensive prowess, highlighted by his significant steal numbers, often ignited fast breaks and disrupted opposing offenses.

Mercer’s performance wasn’t just about the averages; it was about the moments. He provided valuable energy and production whenever he stepped on the court, contributing to USA’s undefeated record and their eventual triumph over Canada in the final. His ability to contribute across multiple statistical categories—scoring, rebounding, and especially stealing—made him a key piece of the gold-medal-winning squad.

This FIBA U16 AmeriCup gold medal is a significant milestone in Kameron Mercer’s burgeoning career. It solidifies his status as a national talent and offers a glimpse into the bright future ahead. Fans eager to follow his journey can find all the latest updates, highlights, and news right here on his official blog.

Stay tuned for more on Kameron Mercer, the USA Basketball U16 gold medalist, as he continues to make his mark on the basketball landscape!

Kameron Mercer Joins RWE: A Powerhouse Partnership on the Hardwood

May 29, 2025 The Influential Group

The basketball world is buzzing with exciting news: Kameron Mercer, the highly touted 2028 prospect and gold medalist with USA Basketball, is officially joining RWE! This strategic move is set to create a formidable force on the AAU circuit and further elevate Mercer’s already impressive trajectory.

For Kameron Mercer, this collaboration with Rod Wave Elite represents a significant step in his development. Known for their high-profile platform and competitive schedule, RWE offers Mercer an unparalleled opportunity to hone his skills against elite national competition. As a top talent, fresh off his contributions to the USA U16 Gold Medal FIBA Championship and with a groundbreaking NIL deal with Pahhni Water under his belt, Mercer is poised to make an immediate impact. Playing alongside other premier athletes in the RWE program will undoubtedly push his game to new heights, refining his versatile skill set and further solidifying his reputation as one of the most exciting young players in the country.

The addition of Kameron Mercer is equally monumental for RWE. Already a prominent name in the AAU landscape, driven by its association with musician Rod Wave and its compelling social media presence, RWE gains an undeniable talent who brings national recognition and a winning pedigree. Mercer’s presence will not only boost the team’s competitiveness on the court but also enhance its visibility, attracting even more attention from scouts, media, and fans alike. This partnership truly embodies the RWE mission of providing a premier stage for basketball’s next generation.

Fans are eagerly anticipating the debut of Kameron Mercer in the RWE uniform. This alliance promises thrilling matchups, highlight-reel plays, and an exciting journey through the upcoming AAU season. Be sure to follow Kameron Mercer and Rod Wave Elite as they embark on what promises to be a memorable chapter in youth basketball!

Kameron Mercer Teams Up with 24 Apparel: A Partnership Forged in Hard Work

May 12, 2025 The Influential Group

We are thrilled to announce an exciting new collaboration that perfectly aligns with the relentless drive and dedication defining Kameron Mercer’s journey! The esteemed high school basketball standout has officially partnered with 24 Apparel, a brand synonymous with the principles of hard work, grind, and excellence – both on and off the court.

This partnership is a natural fit for Kameron, whose remarkable rise in the basketball world is a testament to these very values. From his intense training sessions to his dominant performances, including his pivotal role in the USA Basketball Men’s U16 National Team’s gold medal win, Kameron embodies the relentless pursuit of greatness. Just as 24 Apparel represents the commitment required to achieve success, Kameron’s outlook on his career is built on a foundation of continuous improvement and unwavering effort.

Kameron himself is genuinely excited about this new venture. “Teaming up with 24 Apparel feels incredibly right,” Kameron shared. “Their brand truly resonates with my approach to basketball and life. It’s all about putting in the work when no one is watching, embracing the grind, and striving for excellence every single day. I’m really looking forward to what we can achieve together through this partnership.”

This collaboration with 24 Apparel signifies more than just an endorsement; it’s a mutual commitment to inspire. It highlights how dedication to craft, combined with strategic partnerships, can propel athletes to new heights. As Kameron continues to make waves in the basketball landscape, from his NIL deal with Panini America to his community efforts like the inaugural youth basketball camp at Winton Woods High School, this alliance with 24 Apparel will further amplify his message of perseverance and achievement.

We eagerly anticipate a powerful and impactful future for this partnership. Stay tuned for exciting initiatives and exclusive content as Kameron Mercer and 24 Apparel embark on this journey, together championing the spirit of the grind and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Cincinnati native Kameron Mercer establishing himself among top 2028 prospects

April 21, 2025 The Influential Group

Kameron Mercer is projecting as a national top-five prospect in the 2028 class. The Cincinnati native had a strong freshman year at Huntington (W.Va.) Expressions Prep.

The spring travel basketball season has arrived, and Kameron Mercer can’t get enough of it. The 6-5, 200-pound Mercer is considered a top-10 prospect in the 2028 class. He is a native of Cincinnati, although he is wrapping up his freshman year at Huntington (W.Va.) Expressions Prep.

He is playing this spring with the All-Ohio Red program, which is allowing him to play up one level with its 16-U team and even catch a few minutes with the 17-U. On Friday night, he played on one court with the 16-U team and then went and played in the next game with the 17-U team on an adjacent court.

Mercer transferred to Huntington Prep so he could play against better competition game in and game out than he would have seen at his hometown school, Winton Woods. He also played against older players. And, one more reason to go to the prep school is it allowed him to participate in an endorsement deal.

In February, Mercer and his parents signed an agreement that includes a potential long-term equity deal with Pahhni, a Hamilton, Ohio-based alkaline water bottling company. As a top national basketball prospect, Mercer has more than 53,000 Instagram followers. He is represented by EZ Sports Group, an NIL sports agency.

“I am just blessed to be in a position like this and just to be where I’m at I couldn’t thank God and my family enough,” Mercer told Cincinnati’s WCPO-TV. “I’m going to do social media posts and content for Pahhni water to help promote the brand.”

“I really want to transition to like a true point guard,” Mercer told ZagsBlog during an event this past winter. “I know if I become a true point guard my stock is going to boost.”

“What I love about Kam is he’s a competitor,” Huntington Prep coach Arkell Bruce told ZagsBlog. “He impacts the game in many different ways, stuffs the stat sheet and plays for the right reasons and the right way. He has a beautiful future with the game.”

Part of that future could be with USA Basketball. He attended the Junior National Team camp at the NCAA Final Four earlier this month in San Antonio. A 16-U team will be formed to play in an international event within this hemisphere later this summer.

Mercer is the younger brother of Winton Woods 2027 star defensive end/edge rusher Jaylen Mercer, who is among Ohio’s top prospects in the current sophomore class. Jaylen Mercer has 20 offers, including Cincinnati, Indiana, Louisville, Kentucky, Michigan, Michigan State, Penn State and Tennessee. Ohio State has also been recruiting him.

Below, we have an interview from this weekend with Kam Mercer as well as photos of him in action and Twitter/X posts with video clips.

MORE FROM KAMERON MERCER

Q: How did that experience work out for you going to Huntington? That had to be a great experience to play high school games against guys who are two and three years older than you?

Mercer: “Yeah, it was actually a blessing. It was very, very good for me, honestly. I got to play the point guard position the whole year. So my team was pretty big, I had a 7-2 big man, a 6-10 big man, and a 6-11 big man. So I had another 6-5 guard and a 6-9 wing, so therefore I had to play the point guard, which was great for me. That’s what I need to play as the years go on. That’s what I really need to be transitioning to in college.

“I think this year, playing a one, playing against people that I played against, I had to face against five-star guards like (top-10 2025 prospect) Mikel Brown, who’s committed to Louisville. He is a very good player. I faced A.J. Dybantsa, the number one player in the whole country right now (going to BYU).

“So the level of play, you can’t knock it. It was really good. So yeah, if I could do it all over again, I would, honestly. I loved this year, and the people that I got to play against. And even the people that weren’t as good, but they were 19 years old, it still helped me. They’re so much stronger and bigger. So I would say this year, man, I really enjoyed this year. It was really fun.”

Q: How do you feel you’ve improved as a player over the last year?

Mercer: “I’ve been tweaking my jumper. This game right here (Friday night), I think I went 4 of 7 or 5 of 7 on threes. I only missed one or two. I’ve been working on that. I hit the weight room a lot with Huntington Prep, so my body’s transitioned. I would say my shooting and my body are probably two biggest things.

“Now I need to work on being more explosive with my bottom. So that’s what I’m working on now.”

Q: How was it to be away from home? Did you have any family with you there, or how did that go? Did you get home sick at all, or what?

Mercer: “Nah, so my dad (Craig), he moved with me. He stayed in an apartment near campus, right by the school, so I was with my dad the whole time. I missed my brothers and my mom a lot. But with Huntington Prep not being too far from my home, maybe 2-1/2 hours, I was able to go back.

“I supported my brother in his football games. And then my mom visited me maybe four or five times. So I got to see her a lot during the year. And I only go to school Monday through Thursday. So therefore, let’s say I don’t have practice on Friday, I can go home that Thursday and then come back on Friday. So yeah, I was able to spend a lot of weekends with my family. So therefore, I never was homesick. It wasn’t very far.

Q: You went to the Final Four with USA Basketball? What was that experience like, to be with the best of the best?

Mercer: Man, that Florida-Auburn game was good to watch. Just watching Walter Clayton Jr. and Tahaad Pettiford go back and forth. And just that high level in general, it doesn’t get much better than that. I watch more college basketball than NBA, way more college basketball. I think the defense is a lot better. They play so hard. So therefore, it was so entertaining. I couldn’t get my eyes off the game.

“We were so high up, it was hot. So when the Duke-Houston game started, I kind of was walking around. I poked my head back in there, but we ended up leaving at halftime.

“That was a competition for USA Basketball. It was all the top players throughout the country. So therefore, even my grade, everybody’s just so good. Everything’s so leveled out. So therefore, to make the team or to be very good, it’s the small things that pop out to the USA coaches, like being vocal and being just a leader and stuff like that. Everybody’s skill set and skill level is so good.

“Everybody is 6-5, really, unless you’re just a small guard. Everybody’s just so good. So the USA events have been a blessing for me. I hope to get invited to the next one. The next one is the final tryout, and that’ll be May 22nd to June 8^th. It’s like a two-week thing. And they’ll determine after that who’s on the team.”

Q: How about colleges? Has Ohio State kept in touch? What have they been saying, I guess?

Mercer: “So it’s hard. A lot of colleges can’t speak to me. Yeah, you’ve got go through my parents. Yeah, I can call them personally, but they can’t call me. I spoke to Coach Deibler, the head coach. I’ve talked to (Cincinnati) coach Wes Miller a lot. So those are the two I keep in touch with.

“I don’t know, I’m ready for the circuit to start, to get more offers. But as far as now, I got Missouri, UC, Xavier, and Ohio State. Okay. Well, I know that the Xavier coach (Sean Miller) left to go to Texas. I guess I couldn’t say I have that one no more. But I’m pretty sure I’ll have Texas real soon.”

Q: How about playing with the All-Ohio teams?

Mercer: “Yeah, so we just need to add a couple more pieces and play together a little more. There aren’t that many egos on our team. But other than that, when we play together and we put everything to the side, we’re actually a really good team. And I think that we have a chance to go out there and turn some heads.”

This article was originally posted by 247sports.com by Steve Helwagen:
https://247sports.com/college/ohio-state/longformarticle/cincinnati-native-kameron-mercer-stands-out-ohio-state-buckeyes-cincinnati-bearcats-249062412

Inspiring the Next Generation: Kameron Mercer Hosts Inaugural Youth Basketball Camp

March 29, 2025 The Influential Group

March 29, 2025, marked a truly special day for aspiring young basketball players in the Cincinnati area as Kameron Mercer, the sensational 2028 prospect, hosted his inaugural youth basketball camp at Winton Woods High School. It was an inspiring event that showcased not only Mercer’s incredible talent on the court but also his genuine commitment to giving back to the community that shaped him.

The energy was great as young athletes, eager to learn from one of the nation’s rising stars, filled the gymnasium. Throughout the day, Kameron actively engaged with every participant, demonstrating drills, offering personalized tips, and sharing insights from his own journey. From fundamental skills like dribbling and shooting to teamwork and court awareness, the campers received invaluable instruction directly from Mercer himself, alongside a dedicated coaching staff.

This camp was more than just a training session; it was an opportunity for these young players to connect with a role model who is living out their dreams. Kameron is a testament to what dedication and hard work can achieve. His presence provided a powerful source of motivation, showing the campers that with passion and perseverance, their own basketball aspirations are within reach.

The decision to host his first camp at Winton Woods High School underscores Mercer’s deep roots and dedication to his community. It’s a clear message that while his star continues to rise nationally, he remains committed to inspiring the next generation right where his own journey began.

The success of Kameron Mercer’s inaugural youth basketball camp is a clear indicator of his future impact, not just as a player, but as a mentor and community leader. We look forward to seeing the positive ripple effect of this initiative and anticipate many more inspiring events from Kameron as he continues to shine both on and off the court. Stay tuned for updates on future camps and Kameron’s ongoing journey!