There’s something special about watching a legend stay close to the game they love. For Jamal Crawford, that connection hasn’t just stayed strong—it’s grown deeper. Whether he’s breaking down plays on national broadcasts or showing up on the hardwood in Seattle, Crawford is still living and breathing basketball. His summer Pro-Am league, the CrawsOver, has become a staple in the Pacific Northwest, attracting NBA stars and shining a light on local talent. He’s a bridge between generations, giving back to the community that raised him while keeping the game’s spirit alive. And this time, Chris Paul was there to be surprised! Besides that, a message alongside the next gen, to the world that follows him.

You might have caught a post recently from the ever-reliable Slam High School Instagram page. It was Crawford, on the sideline, coaching a bunch of young hoopers in the Nike EYBL. But here’s what made it worth a double-take. Right there, flying down the court, throwing down dunks and draining threes with ease, was none other than his son, JJ Crawford. Yes, Jamal Crawford is now coaching the Rotary U15 team in the ultra-competitive Nike EYBL, and JJ is one of the stars.

The father-son duo made a powerful impression at the recent Nike EYBL Session II showcase in Memphis. Leading the NW Rotary 15U EYBL squad, the Crawfords not only displayed skill and leadership but also ignited a renewed sense of excitement around grassroots basketball. Jamal, a seasoned NBA veteran known for his smooth handles and basketball IQ, brought his coaching presence courtside, guiding his young team with poise and purpose. Meanwhile, JJ showed flashes of elite-level talent well beyond his age, playing with confidence and control that drew attention from spectators and scouts alike.

The duo’s presence alone added star power to the event, but it was their team’s performance, especially standout moments like Tytan McNeal’s viral dunk, that truly turned heads. After a tough opening session, the team bounced back with two big wins, including a decisive victory over AZ Unity. Their resilience and talent spoke volumes, proving that under Jamal’s mentorship and with rising stars like JJ and McNeal, this AAU squad is one to watch. More than just a father-son story, it’s a glimpse into the next generation of basketball excellence, shaped by experience, community, and raw potential.

The bond is real. And it’s not just about wins and losses for Jamal Crawford, it’s about teaching. It’s about sharing the game that gave him everything with the next generation, starting with his own family. JJ, meanwhile, is not just riding his dad’s name. He’s out there earning his stripes, one three-pointer and coast-to-coast layup at a time.

Who is JJ Crawford’s teammate, McNeal?

Tytan McNeal is not just a name to be recognized. Across the world of basketball, he’s the next big thing. He is actually making waves in the U15  basketball. There were some very thrilling moments that McNeal brought to the Nike EYBL Circuit with Jamal Crawford’s Rotary Rebels 15U.  Especially in Session 2 at Memphis, where he went for a poster dunk that got Chris Paul in awe. The gym went crazy, and McNeal truly proved he could deliver when needed.

He plays with JJ Crawford, making the Rebels a must-watch team. The team may have had a tough streak, but McNeal just kept shining through his aggressive plays and athleticism. He’s fast, he’s fearless, and he’s ready to make big plays. McNeal’s change of momentum is very helpful to his team.

Plot Twist: he’s also a football player! As a freshman at Eastside Catholic High School, he’s already received scholarship offers from major Division I programs such as USC, Washington, and Miami. That is something that rarely goes with one in the ninth grade. The coaches are the first to keep an eye on him as he grows.

McNeal loves both sports and should have enough talent for either. But for now, McNeal is all about working hard and having fun. The time for making that choice of a lifetime is far away for now, but the spotlight is already upon him. Be it football or basketball or both, Tytan McNeal is just getting warmed up.