Sunday, March 9, 2008

All City Youth Classic Recap: (NYC VS Philly)- 8th Grade Game


Richard "Eggy" Hoskins and Labrent Walker

In the third and final game of the day Maurice Watson made a running floater as time expired to give the Philly All Stars a 109-107 win over the NYC All Stars in the 8th Grade Game. Richard Hoskins finished with a game high 26 points while Labrent Walker tallied 23 markers for NYC in the loss.

Standout Performers

Maurice Watson Guard (Philly)- Another event another good showing for Watson. Before Watson made the game winner he gave the NY defense fits by penetrating through small gaps and either finishing with short jumpers or dropping dimes. When the game was on the line he showed big time poise knocking down the key shot.

Richard Hoskins Guard (Philly)- This was my first time watching Hoskins, I think they call him Eggy. I hope I spelled it right because after his performance yesterday he deserves the best. This kid specializes in scoring on runners and being relentless on defense. He scored in bunches and at the end of the game stole 3 consecutive in bounds passes while converting them for buckets.

Andre Horne Guard (Philly)- Some felt Horne should have won MVP because the way he charged his way to the hoop and displayed his improved jump shot. Horne is very tough and shows it on both ends of the floor. He’s slowly making a transition to the perimeter.

Amile Jefferson Forward (Philly)- Jefferson wasn’t spectacular on the offensive end but he served his purpose and did a good defensive job on Kyle Anderson. Amile’s length allowed him to still have a good presence on the game in terms of making things happen and doing the intangibles such as rebounding, passing and playing defense.

Jalen McCleere Forward (Philly)- The big guy got things done inside when Philly needed it most. He posted up deep and sealed defenders so he could get easy access to the cup. He was a force at times inside.

Kerwin Okoro Guard (NYC)- I haven’t seen Okoro in years but I was very impressed with his game. He has tremendous size thus far and has the versatility to be a big time guard. His jump shot looks fluid and he gave the crowd a first-hand look at his wicked crossover. He has a chance to be the top NYC prospect in this class.

Kyle Anderson Guard (NYC)- Anderson has a big impact on the game once he enters the gym. When the tallest player on the floor is playing the point guard spot you know he has special talents. Kyle wasn’t spectacular in the scoring column but made things happen some good passing and rebounding.

Labrent Walker Guard (NYC)- Walker was very impressive in the open floor and driving to the basket. He’s very explosive once he enters the lane and even threw one done on a solo fast break. Walker looks very good going to the hoop but will need to show an outside shot to keep the defense honest.

Daniel Dingle Forward (NYC)- Dingle is very long and plays with energy on both ends. During this contest he attacked the cup off the bounce and from passes but appeared to be rushing his shot a little. I see a lot of potential in this kid real shortly.

Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic