Garner Was Very Impressive At The Five Star Showcase!Five Star conducted its Elite 80 Showcase at Temple University and Basketball Spotlight was in the building. We got a chance to watch some of the top up and coming talent in the region. Here’s a look at some of the Class of 2014 and 2015 top performers.
Class 2014 Top Performers
Shepard Garner Guard (Chester, PA)- Garner was spectacular for most of the day. He plays at a different speed than most opponents and gives it all on both ends of the floor. During the first game he mainly attacked the glass and finished strong. Later on his jump shot began to fall and it was curtains for the opposition. Shepard also has the knack the hit the glass and dish a few dimes. Finally, he should be commended for the effort he put in on the defensive end. It’s rare to see a kid with his talent go that hard on the defensive side of the floor.
Matt Risse Forward (Haddonfield, NJ)- Risse seems to have grown an inch or two. I just love his feel for the game and how fluid he looks when he handles the pill. He maneuvers well under the bucket in terms of scoring and avoiding shot blockers. If he continues to put the work in this kid could be something special.
Cole Moody Forward (Mount Laurel, NJ)- I love Moody because he does what he does. He doesn’t waste time trying to handle the rock on the perimeter instead he races down the floor and goes directly to the blocks. Once he gets the rock on the post he only attempts high percentage shots.
Dustin Cole Guard (Southern, Maine)- He took the long trip down from Maine and didn’t waste his money. This youngster torched the net from the perimeter and made some slick drives going towards the cup. His back and forth battle with Jerron Love was one of the highlights of the day. I like what he brought to the table.
Adeyinka Adams Guard (Bronx, NY)- Adams arrived late but made his presence felt once he stepped on the floor. His low quick handle helped his skate pass defenders before hurting their hearts with short pull ups. He’s a very skilled player that does depend of flash to catch attention.
Naim Thomas Guard (Poughkeepsie, NY)- Thomas also missed the first game but he just knows how to get himself involved. The strong combo guard sliced through a couple of defenders and converted some buckets. Once he’s in the flow of the game he’s very difficult to defend.
Tavaris Headen Guard (Voorhees, NJ)- The southpaw is very powerful and loves to attack when the lane opens up. I also love his toughness on the defensive end. He’s very physical and plays the game with a high motor. Keep an eye on him.Class 2015
Malcolm Manning Guard (Maplewood, NJ)- This youngster showed good poise while rocking against the older guys. He held his own when handling the rock and made some crisp passes while pushing the pill in transition.
Juwan Gooding Guard (Boston, Mass.)- Gooding outside wasn’t falling as much as in the past but he still was able to get anywhere he wanted on the floor. His body mass and ball handling is good for this class. It allows him to get into the lane, absorb contact and finish at the bucket.
Mikey Dixon Guard (New Castle, DE)- It will be hard to find a tougher player in the region. The pint size guard battled with the big boys, took an elbow to the eye and kept on ticking. He made some good plays, has the heart of a lion and refuses to give up.
