Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Top Performers Part 2
Cole Anthony (NY Rens)
The Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Division produced a first time champion. It also gave us a chance to take a look at some new faces on the basketball scene. Here’s Part 2 of our top performers from the weekend.
Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Top Performers Part 2
Cole Anthony Guard (NY Rens)- Anthony AKA “The Natural” is probably the best pure scorer in America. This weekend he showed unlimited range from deep, mid-range prowess, strong finishes at the rim including a signature finger roll and even threw down a dunk in transition. Cole attacks the basket with a purpose which usually end with a bucket or a trip to the charity stripe. He’s one of the few players in the country that’s a threat to score when he touches the rock anywhere on the floor.
Joe Toussaint Guard (NY Rens)- The Spotlight thrives because it gives a stage for players like Toussaint to make a splash. The hard penetrating guard had everyone asking who’s #4 on the Rens. He had finishing ability at the tin and a mean pull from the mid-range area. He has good size which makes him dangerous when he’s charging defenders especially in transition. He looked very good with this unit.
Phillip Joseph Forward (NY Rens)- I see Joseph has been working on expanding his game. He still has some post up skills but now he’s willing to face up more before operating. He has a quick first step and the quickness to take advantage of many post defenders. If he keeps working he could become a legit wing in a few years.
Judah McIntyre Guard (NY Rens)- McIntyre has grown a couple of inches since last summer and came off the bench to spark his squad. His court vision remains one of the best in the region as he’s capable of hitting teammates from any angle. He seems more comfortable with his outside shot and needs to use it more to keep the defense honest.
Papie Roberts Guard (Newark Pharoah)- Roberts runs the show for the Newark squad and he’s built like a tank. He’s strong and plays with a low center of gravity so it’s extremely difficult for him to be stripped. His tough as nails style and ball handling ability allowed him to get anywhere on the floor. He went on a scoring binge against Team Phenom and finished with 33 points which helped them advance to the quarterfinals.
Taj Anderson Guard (Team Twelve)- Anderson would have made his uncle Kenny proud the way he played against Northeast Finest. The combo guard showed the ability to score in the open floor and create plays for his teammates. I also like his touch from the outside. He finished with 16 points in the contest.
Tyrik Mitchell Guard (Team Twelve)- Nicknamed Boogie, this guard teams with Anderson to be a good looking backcourt. He has good dribbling skills and can set up teammates. But if needed Mitchell can also catch fire and get it done in the scoring column.
