John Severe (LI Lightning)Basketball Spotlight took the trip over to Thomas Jefferson High School in Brooklyn, NY to watch the Funsport League. I got a chance to check out some of the top players in NYC and I must say it was truly a joy. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top performers we saw in a voyage. This is Part 2.
Funsport Top Performers
John Severe Guard (LI Lightning)- Even tough his team came out on the short end against the Panthers, Severe was one of the most impressive players I saw throughout the day. Just think about Steve Francis during his time at the University of Maryland. John is an explosive guard with quick change of direction, powerful moves, legit handle and good range on his jumper. Yes, it looks like he has the goods. Once he gets better with decision making and understanding the game you will have a sure stud on you hands. Severe’s most important aspect might be his desire to win and how hard he competes. He tallied 24 points and 11 boards.
Jordan Washington Forward (NY Panthers)- Jordan had the most dominant post game during the day. The man-child in the paint did whatever he wanted once he got the ball on the blocks. He showed good touch on some of his shots and showed even more effort on the boards with 29 caroms. Washington fought off double teams and zones on his way to 27 markers in the books.
Jason Boswell Forward (LI Lightning)- Boswell started with a spark before getting in early foul trouble. It was good to see him being aggressive because I think he really needs to focus on that area but in terms of being a prospect it’s hard to find anyone in the gym that probably has more long term potential. His size, ball handling ability and shooting range just gives him attributes that many others don’t possess. It’s up to him if he decides to tap into those attributes. 
Thomas Holley Guard (Starret City)- The big fela inside has some polished post moves especially an up and under that he goes to whenever he has a defender pinned. Holley has improved in terms of being a vocal leader and now understands that the ball showed go through him on offense. 
Tim Quashie Guard (Starret City)- The southpaw showed tremendous poise playing up against the Pirates. He demonstrated some point guard skills as well as the ability to score down the stretch. When games get tight some youngsters shy away but Quashie demanded the rock and made big time plays when it mattered.
Rakwan Kelly Guard (NJ Pirates)- Kelly was the bright spot for the Jersey team. The confident wing guard handled the rock and put constant pressure on the defense with crisp drives. He loves pushing the pill coast to coast and has an array of finishing moves. He’s very fluid on the perimeter but must develop a consistent outside shot. Nevertheless he was impressive. 
John Dewey Guard (NY Patriots)- A lot of point guard tried to drop dimes but no one in the building seemed to have more doing it than Dewey. The small but quick floor general made a living driving, drawing and dishing. He kept defenders on their heels with a slick handle and kept his teammates happy with sweet court vision. 
Davonne Ragin Forward (NY Patriots)- Nickname Biggie because he resembles to the rap legend Ragin handles his business on the blocks. He’s not as quick or athletic as other post players but his knack for scoring and his size causes enough problems for opponents. He has good touch from the field and from the charity stripe.
Lamel Faison Guard (Brooklyn USA)- Speaking of point guards Faison also made an impact. He gives it to you by scoring or dropping dimes. His ball handling and quickness allowed him to beat defenders at will. I also like his floater in the lane. He carried his team down the stretch.
Iran Duncan Guard (Brooklyn USA)- Faison’s backcourt mate Duncan is a southpaw with a scorers mentality. He’s physical enough to absorb contact once he gets into the lane. He also knows how to change his shot to avoid shot blockers. He should be a force throughout the season.
