Tuesday, July 29, 2008

14U Nationals Preview MA: Team Philly Has Unfinished Business

Team Philly Ready For Orlando

The Mid Atlantic region is sending a host of teams to the 14U AAU Nationals. The field in Orlando is deep but they have a few squads that have a chance to make some noise. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top players and teams making the trip down.

Mid Atlantic Top Teams

Team Philly Finest

Team Philly reached the finals last season before falling to the All Ohio Purple 65-45 but this time around they have loaded up and are prepared to bring the title home. They have their main core of players while adding the likes of Maurice Watson and super forward Savon Goodman.

Amile Jefferson 6’5 (Forward)- Amile “The Real Deal” Jefferson has put together a terrific season. The lanky forward put up tremendous numbers in some big time games while expanding his game throughout the year. He is a force on defense blocking shots and eating rebounds while also scoring at will on the offensive end. He’s a candidate for 14U Performer Of The Year.

Andre Horne 6’2 (Guard)- Horne has developed his perimeter game this year. The scoring guard has an improved his stroke and ball handling. He had a good showing at the Jr. All American Camp in which he played lockdown defense and was rewarded by making the Top 20 All American Game.

Savon Goodman 6’4 (Forward)- Goodman is the hired gun that Team Philly might need to go over the top. They are a good defensive squad but lacked a prolific scorer and Savon will fill this void in a big way. He’s coming off a good showing at the 16 and Under Super Showcase while also destroying the competition at the Jr. All American Camp. He has some serious star qualities.

Maurice Watson 5’8 (Guard)- Watson brings loads of experience to this event. The cat quick point guard handles the pill and loves having the rock in his hands in crunch time. Maurice has been in big time games before and has the poise to make plays in that atmosphere.

Chester Panthers

The Panthers bring some hunger and aggressiveness to Orlando. They have been seriously battle tested through tournaments including a regional slugfest with Team Philly. Top players Derrick Stewart, Kareem Robinson, Martell McCain, Tyare Hudson and Paris Higgs give the Panthers the chance they need.

Other Teams: Delaware AIM, Delaware Defenders, Maaco Magic, Penn Jersey Panthers and Olivet Bbc