Saturday, May 16, 2009

Mid Atlantic Regional Semifinals 12U Recap

Trevaughn Wilkerson (Team Final)

The Mid Atlantic AAU Regional’s Final Four kicked off today and Basketball Spotlight was on hand for the semifinals. We had a chance to watch the 12U, 13U and 14U rock. Here’s a breakdown of the action.

12U Semifinals Recap

Scores
Team Final 69 Philly Aztecs 50
South Jersey Blitz 58 Peacemakers 46

Spotlight Performers

Trevaughn Wilkerson Forward (Team Final)- Once again Wilkerson dominated the game on both ends of the floor. The big guy blocks anything in sight and just the thought of him being around causes opponents to throw up tough shots. On the offensive he’s getting his drop step together but his true strength is the second chance opportunities that he gives his club by snatching offensive boards.


John Rodriquez Forward (Team Final)- This fresh face blended in well with this squad. He helped out on the glass but showed his true value by carrying the scoring load when his teammates were ice cold in the first half. He excelled in transition while finishing off good passes from their talented guards.

Malik Ellison Guard (Team Final)- Ellison wasn’t spectacular but his play did pick up in the second half. Ellison was able to create opportunities by getting into the lane and either hitting the floater or dropping off passes. He also leaked out and finished a couple of uncontested lay ups.

Mekhi Bryant Guard (SJ Blitz)- Bryant is a strong scoring guard for the SJ Blitz. He goes hard right and uses explosive moves to get the ball in the hole. He’s very tough and can absorb contact when driving. Mekhi will need to strengthen his left hand as he matures in this game.

Myles Powell Guard (SJ Blitz)- This kid stroke is one the sweetest in the region. He started this game very hot in the scoring column. He drove to the cup on several occasions and used twisting moves to score the rock. Myles also tried a couple of tough shots that weren’t successful due to his lack of strength at this age.

Eli Cain Guard (SJ Blitz)- I like this kids posture and stroke from the perimeter. He has the right size for a shooting guard while also understanding his role on this squad. His outside touch stretched the defense.

Stevie Jordan Guard (Philly Aztecs)- Jordan got hot from the perimeter when the Aztecs made their final run in the second half. He also helped apply a tremendous amount of pressure on the Team Final guards all afternoon. This kid never quits.

Devin Liggeons Forward (Philly Aztecs)- The Aztecs kept this game close for a while due to strong play from Devin and others. Liggeons challenged Team Final on the glass and also was a pest on defense. He kept a hand in the passing lanes and ran the floor well.

Mike Zabrecky Forward (Philly Aztecs)- Zabrecky had the tough task of trying to slow down Wilkerson. Mike didn’t back down while making his presence known by battling on the blocks with the young giant.

Taquin Mott Forward (Peacemakers)- Mott was very impressive today against SJ Blitz. The wiry forward scored with ease inside and was like the Windex Man on the glass. Mott’s skill level indicates that he will probably move to the perimeter shortly.

Zakee Shakur Guard (Peacemakers)- Shakur was the floor general and the mighty midget squeezed through several traps while dropping dimes to teammates. In transition he pushes the rock with great quickness and understands the pass first concept.

Samir Doughter Guard (Peacemakers)- Doughter supplied the outside scoring for the Peacemakers. He tickled the twine from deep and banked a couple of floaters off the glass. He’s a kid that definitely shows that Philly toughness.