re: Is it possible to be an elite high school basketball player.......

It happens but most of the rankings are based on camp performance and what you do on the circuit. One example, from a little ways back, is Marcus Taylor who played for Michigan State. He didn't make his name on the circuit. On the other hand, someone from a small town like Von Wafer can make a big splash that has ripples affecting his entire life.

But, like others have said, it's pretty hard to become elite in basketball without the circuit. . .which is no doubt a function of why there are so many shady people associated with it.