What kinds of key players should I be looking for?

In the last couple of days I have been watching a lot Kobe Bryant highlights.He was a basketball player and I am a real estate investor. 

William Tharp , go to your local REIA and see who the main players are in this space.They may be interested or you could reach out to a couple family offices or angels to see if they will fund the deal.Send me info on the project as well.

Also, how many players are there in the game?

Know who are real players on your Cash Buyers List and give them exclusive 1st look. 

Call me anytime if you want my opinion on who the players are in each of the markets

West coast lenders all want originals back and review before they fund.. its why we sign docs on a Tuesday and maybe fund on a Thursday.. they also won't fund without recording numbers. this is the general feedback I have heard from all the new players that have entered the investor market...

Honesty, competency and a good business reputation are qualities to look for IMO.I don't think most investors should be looking for someone who takes orders, you don't want a "yes" man, you need someone who knows more than you do and who will assist, be a player, and keep you from making mistakes!

@David Begley  they are trying to penetrate the HML space here in Oregon and if they can't close in 5 to 10 days they will not get a lot of shots at the best players. 

This specialty REI niche is so small that I seem to be the only player in it, which is why I'm expecting the triple digit returns. :-)My point is to urge you to think outside the box.