Friday, July 11, 2008

12U AAU Nationals Recap Day 1: Gauchos Survive Scare

Steven Bush Sparked The Gauchos

Marquis Rowe scored 20 points including 4 treys but it wasn’t enough as the Future Players lost to the Gauchos 56-50 at the 12U AAU Nationals. Chris Robinson and Steven Bush put together solid performances during this game.

Standout Performers

Steven Bush Guard (Gauchos)- Bush waited his turn whole on the bench and when his number was called he went to work. He trained a couple of treys during big moments and just gave the team some needed energy every time he entered the game. Bush stroke looked very good after leaving his hands and his presence was felt immediately.

Dakari Johnson Forward (Gauchos)- The big fella battle through early foul trouble to control the glass for the Choz. He clogged up the lane and was a defensive stopper at the rim. He blocked or altered numerous shots while hitting rebounds like lunch. Offensively he’s still developing some moves but on this level he’s very effective.

Malik Payne Forward (Gauchos)- When Johnson his on the floor it gives Payne a chance to face the basket and make things happen. Today he did a lot of good things; he hit a few tough baskets, made some nice passes and played good defense.

Chris Robinson Guard (Gauchos)- Robinson provided some scoring punch. He likes driving to the cup and hitting runners in the lane. Chris moved his feet well on the defense and converted in transition. The Gauchos needed his scoring dearly.

Marquis Rowe Guard (Future Players)- Rowe found his rhythm from behind the arc. His trey balls were very deep and always happened at the right time. Rowe also can handle the pill with the best of them. He has a slick crossover and knows how to keep the defenders on their toes.

Cedrick McFadden Guard (Future Players)- The pint size point guard gave the New York boys all they could handle. He sliced through the defense like a hot knife through butter. Once he got near the hole he usually finished the play off with a nice look away pass. He gave them fits for most of the afternoon.

Leroy Butts Forward (Future Players)- Butts was the lone inside player for FP. The southpaw picked his play up as the game carried on. He battled Johnson and was able to get some things to go his way. Leroy is very athletic and will eventually become a wing player when he gets older.