Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Grand Finale Preview: 13 And Under Division

Will Team Final Finally Win The Grand Finale?

The Grand Finale 13 and Under Division is very deep and talented. There will be several teams vying for the crown. Team Final is the early favorite but last year they were in the same position before they got knocked off. Here’s a preview of the tournament where anything can happen.

13 And Under Preview

Team Final: This squad really has a target on their back. They have the personnel to run through the field but it won’t be easy. Their quartet of Trevaughn Wilkerson, Malik Ellison, Lamar Kimble and Ray Lawry are among the best in America. This will be there first new test.


Team Takeover: This squad is anxious for a shot at Team Final. They also have a mean quartet of Bryant Crawford, Tony Blackwell, Jeff Duwhn and Keith Wormley. They are in search of their first Spotlight title but must get past a stubborn Gauchos team in their final pool game.

The City: This year they won’t be a secret. Now they are the hunted. Some player movement will give this team a different look but expect them to still make some noise. They are always a threat to win it all. Expect Mike Williams to have a huge tournament.

F.A.C.E.S.: The addition of Manny Taylor seems to be huge but I think this tourney might be the coming out party for Samir Taylor. His production will have to be higher for them to succeed. The Boys In Black have a date with KYDA in their final pool game.

Gauchos: The Choz are coming off a runner finish at the MDC and want to go all the way. Shake and Bake is back and should team with Davonte Green to form one of the top backcourts in the region. 2009 Coach Of The Year Science Mapp will have his boys ready.

NJ Got Game: On paper this squad has all the pieces. Trey Lowe, Isiah Stills, Otis Livingston and high scoring guard James Wright now grace the roster. The question is do they have enough time to develop chemistry for this event? They better act quickly because Team Final will be waiting in their last pool game.

KYDA: Well here we go Temple Gibbs, Bryce Aiken and Justin Salem return to the Spotlight after a year hiatus. They are with a new squad and the early report is they are ready for work. This trio will lead their team into battle with F.A.C.E.S. in their last pool game.

Philly Aztecs: This is one of the most dangerous teams in the tourney. They made some noise at the AAU Nationals and nearly won the Hoop Group Turkey Tipoff last weekend. Stevie Jordan and Dave Liggeons will be ready. I also heard they will have a surprise suiting up.

Other Teams To Watch Out For: Showtime All Stars, Linden Ballers, Team Underrated, SJ Blitz, Mid Jersey Heat, NYC Elite, Delaware Team Select, Team RIP City