Sunday, June 7, 2009

Never Nervous Invitational 13U Recap: Team Final Captures Crown

Team Final Captures Crown

Cole Moody poured in a game high 24 points as Team Final defeated Team NJ ABC 55-43 to win the Never Nervous Invitational. Isiah Powell finished with 16 points for TNJABC in the loss.

Spotlight Players


Cole Moody Forward (Team Final)- Moody feasted on Team NJ ABC’s lack of size inside. He sealed defenders outside the paint or under the basket before going up for easy lay ups. I like that fact that he doesn’t try to do things he’s not capable of. He’s goes directly to the low post and operates. He was just too much in the paint today.

Marques Little Guard (Team Final)- Don’t let the last name fool you because Little is one of the strongest point guards in this age group. He got to the hole when he pleased and either scored or dropped off dimes to Moody. In transition he pushed the rock down the throat of the defense. He also impressed me on defense by slowing down TNJABC impressive guard attack.

Tavaris Headen Guard (Team Final)- The southpaw started a little slow in the finals but woke in the second half. He’s a flat out scorer that can drive past smaller guards and finish in the lane. His outside shot was effective but it does need to a little work. In transition he was difficult to stop because of his power and change of direction skills.

Isiah Powell Guard (Team NJ ABC)- Powell was once regarded as one of the top guards in this class until an automobile accident slowed down his play. Now this youngster seems to have got his swagger back because he was once again very impressive. He seems to have added something else to his game which is a step back jumper. He uses a hesitation dribble to create space then steps back and pulls a trey.

Shaquan Worthy Guard (Team NJ ABC)- Worthy’s play in the quarterfinal and semifinal propelled TNJABC into the championship. The pint size floor general has the heart of a lion and isn’t afraid to pull the trigger when the game is on the line. What’s really impressive is his ability to finish at the rim despite his size and the fact that he will drain a long trey that can take the heart out of an opposing squad. Looks like a young Allen Iverson.

Kaison Randolph Forward (Team NJ ABC)- Randolph showed flashes of being able to score and attack off the dribble. He also can be a force on the glass but as I watch him play I feel he needs to develop an outside shot. As he moves up in levels he will he pushed to the perimeter so he should begin preparing himself now.

Next Stop: Playaz Blow UP Tourney