Saturday, April 24, 2010

Providence Jam Fest: 13U Top Performers Day 1

Nyrhique "La Smoove" Smith

The 13U Division at the Providence Jam Fest also was rocking. Basketball Spotlight took in a few games and here are the players that impressed us the most.
13U Top Performers

Nyrhique Smith Guard (NJ Shore Shots)- Smith continued to take his game to another level. He started out a little slow while trying to get teammates involved but turned it on later on when his team needed scoring. His methodical moves seem slow but they are deadly and on point. His smooth play and demeanor stood out and had the crowd buzzing. During the quadruple overtime session he took over and scored the winning basket. He finished with 20 markers. It’s only right that his nickname fits his game. Nyrhique “La Smoove” Smith.


George Elghoul Guard (NJ Shore Shots)- George was tough as nails and shows tremendous heart on the floor. He played lockdown defense and nailed some big shots to help the Shore Shots stay alive. During the second half including the overtimes he nailed 3 big treys. This kid brought great energy.

Jaquan Hickman Guard (Abyssinian Church)- Hickman was the high scorer of the day. The powerful combo guard flushed in a game high 35 against CBC in the loss. He’s a total beast in traffic and scores in a hurry. Once he got past the first guard he just taunted shot blockers before dropping buckets. Once he got going he appeared to be unstoppable at times.

AAli Shahid Forward (Abyssinian Church)- Shahid controlled the middle for AC. He blocked a few shots, hit the glass and scored using a face up jumper. Looking at his size and game makes me believe he will be headed for the wing shortly. He should be ready.

Randy Copeland Guard (Abyssinian Church)- Copeland ran the show for this squad and made it his business to get Hickman the rock. He speed allowed him to maneuver around the press and push the rock up the floor. He also can score a little of asked.

Franco Cavaiere Guard (NY Falcons)- Franco has some flair to his game while loving to drive and kick. His crossover is set with a hesitation dribble that will cause opposing coaches to complain. I love his court vision and willingness to get teammates involved.

Conner McGuinness Guard (NY Falcons)- Conner is a scoring point guard that drives the lane very well. He also will stick the pull up jumper. McGuinness isn’t afraid to travel into the land of the giants and deliver.

Laurent Louis Forward (NY Falcons)- Louis plays with the heart of a lion. His moves need to be polished a little but you can’t discount his effort. He plays with a high motor and tries to make numerous plays. He went hard all game.

Karron Daniels Forward (CBC)- Daniels punished AC on the blocks Elton Brand style. He collected several rebounds and went back up strong. His long arms allowed him to get his shot off over shot blockers. I also like his touch off the glass.
KeAndre Fair Guard (CBC)- Fair showed the poise and big play ability that gives him a bright future. He kept defenders on their heels and will nail the step back jumper off the bounce. He’s one of the top PG’s around.