The Basketball Spotlight 12U Division was loaded with talent. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top performers from this age group.
Tip Off Classic 12U Top Performers Part 2
Rob Higgins Guard (Natural Ballers)- Higgins went bananas in their game against CBC. The slick guard pumped in a game high 30 points and gave the crowd a treat. When he’s in his groove defenders need to tighten their laces or watch how he burns the net. He was definitely feeling it this weekend. His game is progressing in the right direction.
Kobe Price Forward (Natural Ballers)- Price also made his mark against CBC. The long forward scored inside and from the perimeter (3 treys) while dropping 20 points. He can get things done now but I think his best days of basketball are still ahead.
Trevor Forbes Guard (CBC)- Forbes scored 20 points in their loss to Natural Ballers but his biggest moment of the weekend came when he nailed a trey to send the game into overtime against NWK. He’s an energetic offensive player that comes through when his team needs him most.
Cole Anthony Guard (New Rens)- The son of former UNLV star and NBA player Greg Anthony has his father beat in one area which is his outside shot. He drained 4 treys as they cruised by Team Final in pool play. He has a knack to score the pill which any coach on any level would love.
Tyrek Chambers Forward (New Rens)- Baby Elton Brand showed up big for New Rens. He rumbled his way to buckets inside. He uses his stocky frame well when boxing out and scoring in the lane. He knows how to find the bottom of the hole. He scored 15 points against Riverside in their final four win.
Nayshon Kane-Hamlet (New Rens)- New Rens wouldn’t have made a finals appearance if Nayshon didn’t rip KSK for 17 points in their quarterfinal matchup. He’s one of those long forwards that basketball purest tend to love. We will be watching him closely.
Jamir Lattimore Guard (PWC)- Lattimore has a good combination of speed and athleticism. After one quick move his shoulders are past the defender and he doesn’t stop until he reaches the rim where he’s a good finisher.
The Basketball Spotlight 12U Division was loaded with talent. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top performers from this age group.
Tip Off Classic 12U Top Performers Part 1
Atiba Taylor Guard (KSK)- Atiba went to work as King Street Kings made a rare Spotlight appearance. This kid gets a lot of hype nationally and now I see what the fuss is about. Taylor is rare court vision for someone his age and really enjoys passing the pill. His size allows him to see over the defense, rebound and score in traffic. While most coaches would love to stick him in the post his perimeter skills demands that he handles the pill. Introducing Atiba “Big Guard” Taylor or “BG” for short.
Mike Watkins Guard (Team IZOD)- While his teammates Brooks and Nowell score the buckets Watkins sets the table. He brought a wealth of experience to this backcourt and calmed the youngsters down when they got out of control. He’s one of only a few 6th Graders that really don’t mind not scoring the rock. A real floor general.
Judah McIntyre Guard (New Rens)- This kid sees the floor and runs a team better than some high school guards. He’s always alert and pushes the rock with his head up. The sign of a great point guard is being a winner and this kid just guided his team to the finals of one of the toughest tournaments around.
Luther Muhammad Guard (KSK)- Luther returned to the Spotlight wearing a new uniform and playing a new position. He now rocks with KSK and plays the shooting guard role. Luther ran the floor well and finished but needs to play a little more under control. I think this will come as he develops on the perimeter.
Will Yarborough Guard (KSK)- Every team has a sniper and Will plays this role for KSK. He’s good at knocking down the deep ball but surprised me with his toughness to finish in traffic. The game versus Sports U was pretty physical and Yarborough stood his ground.
Preston Bacon Guard (DC Assault)- Preston will pull jumpers from the cheap seats. He shoots off the dribble as well as spotting up. He had his guns blazing in their loss to Team IZOD. He’s definitely a two guard trapped inside a point guards body.
Twan Grier Forward (PWC)- The nimble big fella led PWC to the Blue Division crown. He possesses soft hands and good touch inside. He’s built like a linebacker but has the grace of a wide out. The Blue Division has not answer for this kid.
Zegary Scott Guard (Playtime)- Scott’s game was flourishing as he led Playtime to the final four. He’s conventionally a point guard but shouldered most of the scoring responsibility for the weekend. I can’t wait to see how his game progresses during the season.
Makhi Mitchell Forward (DC Assault)- Mitchell battled foul trouble against Team IZOD but still managed to show how his game has developed. He’s turning into a fluid driving forward with a mean ratchet from the perimeter. If his skill set continues we might have a dangerous prospect here.
Makhel Mitchell Forward (DC Assault)- Like his twin brother; Mitchell perimeter skill set is also developing. His handle is not as crisp as Makhi but he does have good form on his shot. He plays aggressive inside but also needs to learn to avoid foul trouble.
Justin Nwosu Guard (DC Assault)- Justin plays the scoring guard for this bunch. He shoots the pill with a lot of confidence and shines bright in transition. He has the chance to be another good guard coming from the DC Metro area. They definitely have a history of producing them.
Now that we have the guards out the way we can look at some of the top forwards that put in work at the Tip Off Classic.
Tip Off Classic 14U Top Forwards
Mustapha Herron (Gauchos)- Herron proved to be worth all his praise. He’s grown a few inches since last year and might top out around 6’8 which is scary. He now has made the full transition to the wing as a legit 3 and possible two-guard. But don’t get me wrong his wing success hasn’t turned him into a prima donna; Herron still hits the boards hard and plays defense. He had a dunk and 24 points in their quarterfinal loss to F.A.C.E.S..
Sam Green (DC Assault)- Green had a monster weekend on the blocks including a 20 point performance in their finals loss to Team Scan. This kid is definitely polished as a face up power forward but will eventually convert to the wing. Green is as skilled as they come on the post.
Joe Hampton (DC Assault)- Green’s twin tower partner can be very effective when he’s getting his touches. He performed the high/low game well with Green and showed good touch. I think their guards should have been pumping him the pill a little more. We haven't seen the last of Joe and we waiting for a showout performance like last year at the AC Showcase.
Patrick Andre (Playaz)- Andre was very impressive in his Spotlight debut. The 6’6 wing stroked the trey ball like Detlef Schrempf. During the semifinals against Team Scan Patrick played big and nailed a big three to keep the Playaz within striking distance. He should be another good one in NJ’s loaded Class of 2016.
Terrell Turner (New Rens)- Turner has trimmed down and spurted up since his New Heights days. This new physique has improved his quickness and confidence. He maneuvered well along the baseline and even pats the rock on the wood a little better. He seems to have a good upside if he continues to work hard.
Patrick Strazala (St. Michaels)- Patrick was the lone bright spot for St. Michaels. He led the team in scoring including 20 points against DC Assault. He has a versatile game similar to Christian Laettner. He didn’t back down from the heavy competition. The MVP of the grammar school tourney showed he could perform on the AAU Circuit.
Rodney Miller (St. Rens)- In a few years Miller stock will start paying in. He stands 6’9 and has some scoring and rebounding ability. Right now he’s still a prospect but his size alone impacts the game on both ends. In the meantime he should work on his skills and confidence but the tools are there with this kid.
Kyle Elliot (Team Scan)- Elliot gave TS big energy minutes off the pine. He can guard multiple positions and help out on the glass. Kyle’s wingspan allows him to play the passing lanes on the press and finish off plays in transition. He’s a glue player that could help this team in the long run.
Daveyon Barnes (ETU)- Despite playing against longer defenders Barnes still finds a way to establish his position on the post and score buckets. His strong lower body allows him to box opponents under the basket. He’s a tough competitor and will contribute to the game on any level.
The Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 14U Division was loaded with talent. Here’s a look at some of the top performers from this weekend. First let take a look at the guards.
Tip Off Classic 14U Top Guards
NyRhique Smith Guard (Playaz)- Many would have to agree that Smith used the Tip Off Classic as his personal playground. He averaged 27 points a contest including an eye popping 37 point game during the quarterfinals against King Street Kings. The stage was at its brightest and “La Smoove “ had his swagger jacket on. It seemed the bigger the moment the more he would deliver. He led this newly formed Playaz group to a final four and was within two points of knocking off eventual champ Team Scan. He had one of the best overall tournament outings in Spotlight history.
Devonte Green Guard (Team Scan)- Green only played on Sunday but it was good enough to help them win the crown. He has a very mature game and isn’t afraid to face the top notch competition. He looks his best when he keeps his moves simple and plays under control. He also surprised me with his sneaky athleticism. He averaged close to 18 points a contest.
Bryce Aiken Guard (Team Scan)- Aiken should be the captain of this bunch. His big game experience and defensive prowess helped them overcome a big deficit to knock off the Playaz in the semifinals. While some hit the panic button Aiken stays under control and delivers wisely. He lit the Gauchos up for 18 big points during their pool play game.
Unique McLean Guard (Team Scan)- Everyone knows he can leap but McLean has shown vast improvements in his game. He practices more patience when attacking by picking his spots. He’s added arc to his outside shot and knocks it down on a more consistent basis. He really is rounding out his game.
Anthony Cowan Guard (DC Assault)- Playing off the ball some has Cowan more comfortable with his outside shot. He’s a constant matchup problem for many two-guards trying to check him. He came up big with 15 second half points to put a stubborn KSK for good.
Alani Moore Guard (DC Assault)- Moore also stepped up big against KSK in the closing moments. He locked down on defense and grabbed several steals while converting big baskets. In the finals he seemed to run out of steam against Team Scan.But The field was grueling.
Tremont Waters Guard (CT Elite)- His squad had a tough weekend but Waters didn’t disappoint in front of the capacity crowd. He wiggled in and out of the defense while scoring and creating plays. Former NBA player and NY Legend Lloyd Daniels called him a miniature Chris Paul. He hit Team Scan for 20 markers in their loss.
Gilberto Cue Guard (New Renaissance)- Cue’s build and game is similar to former UConn great Khalid El Amin. Like El Amin Cue plays bigger than his height and loves taking the big shot. In the quarterfinal loss to Team Scan he kept things close by making some clutch buckets including treys from NBA range.
Dyaire Holt Guard (Gauchos)- Holt moon-lighted with the Gauchos and didn’t hesitate to get involved. His build and attacking style reminds me of a young Dion Waiters. When Holt’s outside shot is falling it makes very difficult to defend. His big game was a 20 point outing in their quarterfinal loss to F.A.C.E.S. .
RJ Cole Guard (F.A.C.E.S.)- Cole exploded against the Gauchos stretching the defense while draining 4 treys and finishing with 20 points. The lefty found his range from behind the arc and capitalized on the defense not rotating. Shorty got busy!
Jagan Mosley (F.A.C.E.S.)- The defensive specialist got busy on the other end of the court against DC Assault during the final four. He nailed 3 treys and helped the Killer Bees keep things close.
Wolfgang Novogratz Guard (KSK)- Wolfie has added some height to his frame which is a good for his future and I love his aggressiveness when attacking. He seems to be channeling his game to become a true point guard if so he needs to work on shot selection especially in crucial times of the game. Down the stretch running the show, protecting the rock and making great decisions should be the main priority. He had a game high of 15 points against DC Assault.
Adam Perry (KSK)- Perry got hot in their blowout win over St. Michaels. He banged home 5 treys on his way to dropping 20 points. He shows craftiness at times and loves shooting the pill.
Stay Tune Because We Have More Coverage To Come. We Are Just Getting Started.
Basketball Spotlight is proud to present the Baby Baller MLK Classic in Atlantic City, NJ. This event will bring together the top baby baller squads in the region for a showdown in America’s Playground. We created this event to give these young ballers a chance to shine under the bright lights. Register Online below.
Event: Baby Baller MLK Classic Date: Jan. 14th and 15th Place: Atlantic City, NJ Ages: 10U, 11U and 12U Deadline: January 2nd 2012
It’s not unusual for New York-New Jersey clashes to occur at Basketball Spotlight events, and the 12U division at the first-ever Tip Off Classic was certainly no exception. A memorable championship between newcomer and potential rising, regional power New Renaissance versus a retooled Team IZOD/Sports U wasn’t as close as many expected, but players from both teams took turns showing off the improvements they have made since last year. Overall, the sixth grade’s orange division was easily one of the event’s most exciting groups.
Markquis Nowell – Guard – Team IZOD As much as I despise player comparisons, it’s difficult not to have Erving Walker flashbacks when watching the confident young guard. Sure he has a long way to go, but Nowell is compact, fiery, has quicks and a handle, and isn’t shy about letting it fly from anywhere on the court. His lack of conscience as a shooter allows him to go on big scoring runs, which was evident as he finished with 37 points against Rens in the championship contest.
Shelton Applewhite – Forward – Team IZOD Bringing a player as talented as Applewhite off the bench speaks to how loaded this Team IZOD/Sports U sixth grade group truly is. He effects the game with instant energy with some scoring ability from the wing, and is also an impressive and needed rebounder from his position. It’s difficult to come off the bench, but his expanding perimeter skills make him a more versatile player capable of immediate impact. An impressive prospect, Applewhite’s progression with this squad will be monitored closely.
Jalen Brooks – Guard – Team IZOD An impressive young guard, Brooks has a patient approach, and has already has a few gears to his game. He’s the most seasoned of the Team IZOD prospects and his presence on the floor is vital to their success when the competition-level is equally matched. As he finds consistency with his outside jumper, people will begin to appreciate his playmaking ability more. Don’t be surprised if he becomes the steadfast leader for this team.
Daniel Klosk – Guard – Rens The marksman had a lot of help as his newly formed squad made an impressive championship run, but Klosk’s touch from deep left a lasting impression in the event’s final 12U game. Normally fatigue gets the best of shooters at the end of a tough weekend, but Klosk showed excellent resilience by picking his spots and knocking in numerous perimeter jumpers. It’s hard to imagine a more pure outside shooter in the region than this young man.
And One (To Keep An Eye On) – The main question people were asking about the 12U IZOD group was, “who is the big kid?” His name Justin Winston, and while still more prospect than player, he manages to make a significant impact for this young squad on the interior. While guard play is key to victories at the middle school level, big men often mean the difference in championship runs, and Winston gives this 12U Team IZOD/Sports U group the exact ingredients necessary to compete amongst the nation’s best.
Tavon Jones – Guard – Team IZOD Jones is the third piece to a devastating IZOD backcourt that wears opponents down with their relentless pressure. While Brooks and Nowell are the more recognized names, Jones is an athlete with raw but developing skills, who has an excellent feel for making plays in an up-tempo setting. His overall play and confidence level may be the ‘X-factor’ for this group to make a run on the national level as the season moves forward.
Two of the Northeast’s top 11U squads went head-to-head on Sunday at the Hoop Group Headquarters in Neptune, New Jersey as a handful of players stood out in the weekend’s championship game for the class of 2019. As the season moves forward, it should be expected that both the Playtime Panthers and NJ ABC will be competitive against the nation’s best at their age level. Here are just a few of the players to keep an eye on who participated in the inaugural Tip Off Classic.
Jaheim Tanksley – Guard – Playtime Panthers For what he lacks in size, Tanksley gives back tenfold in heart and leadership. He’s the vocal cog for his young team and his teammates and coaches look for him to make plays in crunch time. A capable outside shooter, his midrange game must continue to progress in order for him to be an efficient playmaker in the lane.
Raejan Figures – Guard – Playtime Panthers Some of his teammates have received more ink in previous Spotlight events, but Figures had his moment in the championship contest. The ball-hawking guard anticipates well on defense and came up with important buckets for his team. As a backcourt prospect, he has above average size for his age level right now and seemed the least fazed of anyone on his squad by the pressure and pace of the game largely dictated by the opponent.
Jalen Gaffney – Guard – NJ ABC The consummate point guard is extremely polished at a young age. He recognizes the talent around him and makes an effort to get others involved. During the championship run, Gaffney did a nice job of finishing around the rim and showed the ability to knock down open looks for the perimeter. Any team is at a benefit when they have a guard at the 11U level that can already be classified as a ‘floor general’.
Anthony ‘AJ’ Hoggard – Guard – NJ ABC For such a young player, much praise has been given to Hoggard, and he is deserving of the recognition. He’s well-built for a young guard and after helping lead Team Nelson to a top 10 finish nationally last season, he hasn’t missed a step since coming over to join NJ ABC. Right now he’s one of the top players we’ve seen in his class nationally, but to remain there his burst will have to improve, as well as his ability to show he can score consistently on all three levels.
Jordan McCoy – Forward – Playtime Panthers The versatile and wiry forward may have been the best long-term prospect on the court during the 11U Tip Off Classic Championship. His handle and quickness on the perimeter are legitimate and he showed developing range while doing most of his damage getting to the cup. Showing the ability to dominate on the defensive end as a stopper and rebounder would also be a huge step forward for McCoy.
And One (To Keep An Eye On) – There’s another Pierre-Louis on the horizon and this time it’s Frantz youngest son, and Nate’s brother, Joshua. The younger Pierre-Louis is a blend of his dad and older sibling right now, fitting the mold perimeter-oriented forward who just becoming comfortable with his frame. If his confidence matches his developing skills, keep this name in a safe place and check back sooner than later, Josh Pierre-Louis.
Temple Gibbs pumped in a game high 28 points including 3 treys and Devonte Green added 16 markers as Team Scan defeated DC Assault 63-57 to win the Basketball Spotlight 14U Orange Division Championship. Sam Green finished with 20 points for DC Assault in the loss. Coach Jamaal Womack praised a united effort for the championship victory. "It's the parents, coaching staff and student-athletes being on the same page that allowed Team Scan to win this championship."
Tip Off MVP: Temple Gibbs Guard (Team Scan): Gibbs has been playing on a serious level thus far and in the finals he turned it up even more. He was hot from behind the arc while nailing some crucial jumpers but he really hurt DCA when finishing at the rim. His strength helped him absorb contact and still score buckets. His swagger is on another level right now and he’s punishing opponents.
Rob Higgins (Natural Ballers)
Kobe Price Forward (Natural Ballers)- Price also made his mark against CBC. The long forward scored inside and from the perimeter (3 treys) while dropping 20 points. He can get things done now but I think his best days of basketball are still ahead. 
Trevor Forbes Guard (CBC)- Forbes scored 20 points in their loss to Natural Ballers but his biggest moment of the weekend came when he nailed a trey to send the game into overtime against NWK. He’s an energetic offensive player that comes through when his team needs him most.
Cole Anthony Guard (New Rens)- The son of former UNLV star and NBA player Greg Anthony has his father beat in one area which is his outside shot. He drained 4 treys as they cruised by Team Final in pool play. He has a knack to score the pill which any coach on any level would love. 
Tyrek Chambers Forward (New Rens)- Baby Elton Brand showed up big for New Rens. He rumbled his way to buckets inside. He uses his stocky frame well when boxing out and scoring in the lane. He knows how to find the bottom of the hole. He scored 15 points against Riverside in their final four win. 
Nayshon Kane-Hamlet (New Rens)- New Rens wouldn’t have made a finals appearance if Nayshon didn’t rip KSK for 17 points in their quarterfinal matchup. He’s one of those long forwards that basketball purest tend to love. We will be watching him closely.
Jamir Lattimore Guard (PWC)- Lattimore has a good combination of speed and athleticism. After one quick move his shoulders are past the defender and he doesn’t stop until he reaches the rim where he’s a good finisher.
