Monday, December 29, 2008

Grand Finale 08 12U Championship Recap: Playtime Basketball Prevails

Playtime Basketball Got It Done!

Corey Brown had 24 points and Deshawn Washington added 10 markers as Playtime Basketball defeated NYC Gauchos 65-55 to win the Grand Finale 12 and Under Championship. Kai Mitchell led the Gauchos with 13 points in the loss.

Championship Top Performers


Corey Brown Guard (Playtime Basketball)- Brown was outstanding for the entire tourney. The combo guard’s feel for the game, ball handling and shooting made him the talk of this age bracket. In the finals he nailed 3 treys and made a host of big plays. This was my first time checking him out and I was very impressed with his poise and effectiveness. He gets anywhere he wants on the court and makes it looks easy.

Deshawn Washington Guard (Playtime Basketball)- Washington was another impressive guard with this squad. He can shoot the jumper or get to the hole where he loves to cuff the rock in traffic. I like his instincts and body control when finishing.

Ray Kim Forward (Playtime Basketball)- Kim was very efficient during this event. He’s not huge in size but he has good technique and knows how to finish inside. He went up against some good inside players and showed his worth especially in money time.

Phillip Hammond Forward (Playtime Basketball)- Hammond is a long athletic forward that did damage on the glass and altering shots on defense. He used his long arms for second chance opportunities and helped his team advance. He has a nose for the ball.

Kaseem Coston Forward (Playtime Basketball)- Coston is another quick guard from Playtime. He beats defenders with dribble drives and makes pretty good decisions with the pill. His speed plays a huge role in his game.

Kai Mitchell Forward (Gauchos)- Mitchell grew some inches since the last time I saw him and his game has also improved. He has more quickness inside and still can score on anybody on the blocks. He had a good showing.

Jaquan McKennon Guard (Gauchos)- The southpaw has a lot of flash in his game but does possess substance. He can score the rock from anywhere including 3 point land where he we launch it in a heartbeat. He loves the stage and usually performs well on it.

Davonte Green Forward (Gauchos)- Even at this age you can tell Green has some good potential. He has a forward size but can handle the pill like a true guard. On several occasions he got the rebound and pushed the rock up the floor himself. I like his court presence and versatility.

Calvin Riley Forward (Gauchos)- Riley also sprouted up a few inches since last year. He’s an athletic finisher that excels when slashing and in transition. Defensively he’s long enough to cause problems in the passing lane and helping out on the glass.

Inside the Grand Finale, All Tournament Team and Video Highlights Coming Soon.