Diary Of A Baller: Tyus "Kid Mamba" Battle (Edison, NJ) Diary #29

After an exhausting weekend, I started Monday with a big headache right between my eyes. My dad came into my room to wake me up and noticed I was uncomfortable and was nice enough to let me sleep in. My dad is tough on me for sure but he always has my back. After a few hours of more sleep my head was clear and I was as good as new. When I woke up I had a bowl of cereal and read a little of the book the Hunger Games before doing some studying.

Monday night my dad came home from work and we went straight to the gym. We went really worked hard focusing on my handle and my shot. I was really focused and it showed in my workout. I have been taking it up a notch over last month. There is a lot to be accomplished over the next few months in the gym and the time is now.

Tuesday I was supposed to workout with Bryce from Impossible Training but I had to cancel because I had a doctor’s appointment. During my appointment, my pediatrician measured and took my weight. Thanks to God I measured in a half inch taller than I did on my last visit at 6 ft 4 and 1 quarter and 170 pounds which are 5 pounds heavier also. My dad is going to be happy, so happy! After the appointment I took a nap for an hour and then I went to the gym to put up 500 shot s and to handle for an hour. My dad showed up late because of work and rebounded for me and my brother Khalif for an extra hour.

Wednesday school went awesome because I received nothing but good grades on my test and quizzes. At night I went to the gym to lift weights and get shots up for a few hours. I went to eat my favorite food shrimp that Tanya prepared and went to bed early because I was scheduled to go to Saint Joes's, METUCHEN for a school visit the following day. I know, I already chose my school GSB and I am happy with choice but I asked my dad to let me go on a visit to the school because all my friends are going from Holy Savior. Most of the boys from Holy Savior are going to Saint Joes so I was curious. On the Falcon for a day my freshman was my friend Karl Townes. Karl is real cool kid and we both found out we have a lot in common. Number 1 we both love video games, number 2 both of us have gotten a lot of hype and interest as young players and number 3 is that all we both care about is winning. Karl is a lot more outgoing than me but it is good balance and we like to have fun. I should say I have not accomplished anything on the high school level but Karl is having a great freshman year with Saint Joes. He is the best big man shooter in the country in my opinion and he no doubt a top 5 player. He also has all advanced level courses which I found out when I shadowed for a day.

Thursday, I had another good day in school and my dad, me and Khalif had a great workout in the evening. Friday night we were eager to go to Rutgers and support Karl and Saint Joe's who was playing Plainfield in semi final of the T of C. The game started ok for Saint Joe's but the game eventually got away from the Falcon's who got beat by a very strong and athletic Plainfield team.

Over all it was great week for me. Before I forget, congrat's to the GSB girls basketball team for reaching the T of C finals. They are playing Manasquan High School and I know a few of the girls from Hoops America are on that team. Should be a great a game between the 2 on Tuesday night.

Peace, this is Tyus Battle going to bed.

Atlantic City Showcase Deadline Approaching Quickly

Our next stop on the Basketball Spotlight circuit will be the Atlantic City Showcase. In the past this event has been one of the most mysterious tournaments. The unthinkable always seems to happen with a favorite getting sent packing. The deadline for this event is March 25th. ANY TEAM FULLY REGISTERED AT THAT TIME WILL BE IN GREAT JEOPARDY OF LOSING THEIR SPOT. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Event: Atlantic City Showcase
Date: April 7th and 8th
Ages: 10U Thru 14U
Cost: $375 (A Team)

Click Here To Register

Multi Team Registration

Basketball Spotlight Fans Voting Poll Results: Alani "Showtime" Moore Voted #1 Point Guard In America

Alani "Showtime" Moore and Parents

The fans have spoken and Alani “Showtime” Moore was voted as the fans #1 Point Guard In America. Moore won the fan poll by receiving close to 1,000 votes. Moore was very happy with winning the award, "When received the award I was excited. This is definitely a wake up call to show how hard work and dedication pays off. Now, I will continue to stay hungry always. I give thanks to family, friends, teammates, supporters and especially God" said Alani. Basketball Spotlight would like to congratulate Alani and the other four participants that were nominated. We also would like to thank those who logged on and voted for the participants this could have not been done without the help of you guys.

Stay tune for our next category which will be the Top Combo Guards in America coming Tuesday.

Video Profile: Patrick Strazala (St. Michaels)

Name: Patrick Strazala

AAU Team: St. Michaels

Position: Forward

Class: 2016

Breakdown: Patrick won MVP of the Clash For The Cup after leading St. Michaels to a Blue Division crown. He has a miniature Christian Laettner type of game. Meaning he’s primarily a post player with the ability to extend his range beyond the 3 point line. Check out his highlights from the Tip Off Classic.

In The Spotlight:Tyquan Scott (Long Island Rough Riderz)

Name: Tyquan Scott

AAU Team: Long Island Rough Riderz

Position: Forward

Class: 2016

Event: AGame Super Shootout


Breakdown: The first play I saw of Scott was the youngster catching a lob pass and throwing it down on a fast break. This kid can really get up and play above the rim. His springs of course help him in terms of hitting the boards and blocking shots. Fine tuning his ball handling and outside shot should be his next focused.

In The Spotlight: Elijah Boyd (G Town Hardknocks)

Name: Elijah Boyd

AAU Team: G'town Hardknocks

Position: Forward

Class: 2016

Event: AGame Super Shootout


Breakdown: I watched during the AGame Super Shootout and he had an impressive showing against Long Island Rough Riderz. Boyd was very dangerous from the perimeter when knocking down shots. His strong upper body also helps him rebound and post up when needed.

Basketball Spotlight 14U Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel

The 14U Division also didn’t have much movement. Remember this Top 10 is just our opinion and should be taken as such.

Basketball Spotlight Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel

1. DC Assault: “The MOBB” kept its winning ways going by winning the MIT. They simply breezed through the competition. We probably won’t see them again until the Grand Finale hopefully.

2. Team Scan: TS rebounded from their Clash For The Cup championship loss to win the AGame Super Shootout in impressive fashion. They seem to a lock to make the Grand Finale Final Four.

3. Playaz: PBC lost in the championship of the CT. Adidas tournament and in their 8 Is Enough League. We might not see them again until Memorial Day Classic. Hopefully their 6 Grand Finale points can hold up.

4. Team Takeover: Team Takeover has been off our radar since the Clash For The Cup. Hopefully we can catch up with them soon.

5. ETU Warriors: This rugged bunch should be returning to the Spotlight soon. A deep run at an upcoming Spotlight event might spring them into the Grand Finale.

6. King Street Kings: KSK made it to the championship of the AGame Super Shootout. They only have 2 Grand Finale points but a championship win could vault them into Grand Finale talk.

7. Team Final: TF stumbled at AGame Super Shootout while still trying to find their identity. Hopefully everything will come together sooner than later.

8. East Coast Elite: ECE is another team that finds itself with an outside chance of getting into the Grand Finale.

9. New Rens: The New York boys are still trying to mesh all the talent they have acquired. They smashed a couple of teams at the MIT before running into powerful DC Assault.

10. Philly Triple Threat: PTT brings up the rear of our rankings. They have some tough guards they helped them stay in any game.

Basketball Spotlight 13U Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel

The 13U Rankings didn’t have much movement .Remember these rankings are just our opinion and should be taken as such.

Basketball Spotlight 12U Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel

1. CBC: The “Money Team” breezed through the AGame Super Shootout and seems to be a little bored with their recent competition. Maybe they will perk once they hit bright lights of Atlantic City in a few weeks.

2. Team Takeover: TT loss in the MIT finals after a grueling road to the championship. I can’t wait for them to return north so I can watch them tangle with CBC one more time.

3. Team Final: We are at the half way point and TF hasn’t grabbed that expected banner yet. We have two more stops available (AC Showcase and MDC) before the Grand Finale.

4. Milbank: The NY boys recently won the famed IS8 tournament in NY. Now they have their sights set on the Atlantic City Showcase.

5. New Heights: Winning the MIT has this group sporting a new swagger. They will have a chance to advance more once they hit the AC Showcase.

6. DC Assault: DCA made a final four push at the MIT. Now they are ready to try and crack the Top 5 after the loaded AC Showcase.

7. Team IZOD: The Big Red Machine didn’t have a great showing at the MIT. Hopefully they will have a better showing at the AC Showcase.

8. Broward Sharks: The Sharks played great in their MIT debut but now they will be in the Orange Division at the AC Showcase. A good showing you definitely move them up in the rankings.

9. New Rens: After winning the Blue Division of the Tip Off Classic NR hasn’t made any huge strides. They will need some big performances soon to stay among the Top 10.

10. 6th Man Warriors: The Warriors have battled hard against some tough competition and things won’t get any easier at the AC Showcase.

Basketball Spotlight 12U Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel

The 12U Rankings definitely had some moment as a few teams got knocked off. Remember these rankings are just our opinion and should be taken as such.

Basketball Spotlight 12U Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel

1. King Street Kings: KSK moves to the top of the poll by defeating Team IZOD in the finals of the AGame Super Shootout. It was a tough decision because IZOD’s overall body of work might be better but losing to KSK three straight times in championship games gave the Kings the edge.

2. Team IZOD: If the “Fly Guys” could get past their nemesis KSK they would rule the region. Most recently they have a MIT and Baby Baller Bonanza title under their belt. As we hit Atlantic City KSK will once again be standing in their way of a return to the top.

3. East Coast Elite: ECE is the only other 12U squad with a banner in their collection (Baby Baller MLK Classic). Now as we move to Atlantic City they will be trying to add a little more hardware.

4. Playtime Panthers: PP lost in the final four of the Baby Baller Bonanza to eventual champion Team IZOD. I love their toughness and their strength of schedule is one of the best in the region.

5. New Renaissance: NR was idle during the Baby Baller Bonanza and is not scheduled for the AC Showcase. Our next look at this squad might be the MDC.

6. NWK: NWK was mistakenly left out of last month’s top 10 but they made teams pay for it at the Baby Baller Bonanza. They made it to the finals while knocking off high powered DC Assault in the process.

7. Riverside Hawks: I don’t believe RH has ever been this low in our rankings. During the MIT they showed there is some light at the end of the tunnel before be ousted by Team IZOD.

8. DeMarcus Cousins Blue Devils: Formerly Maryland Spartans, this squad will be returning to the AC Showcase. Like I mentioned before for some reason this team always has a good showing in America’s Playground.

9. DC Assault: In their Spotlight debut they made it to the final four of the Baby Baller Bonanza. Do not sleep on this bunch and don’t be surprised if they climb the rankings very quickly. They will also be in the crowded AC Showcase.

10. Mass Shooting Stars: Mass wanted anxiously to play against the big boys in the Orange Division and they will have their wish in Atlantic City.

Basketball Spotlight 11U Top 10 Presented By AGame Apparel

The 11U Rankings has a new #1 after the Baby Baller MLK Classic. Remember this Top 10 is just our opinion and should be taken as such.

Basketball Spotlight Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel

1. ECE-NJABC: The Baby Baller Bonanza title put NJABC back on top of our rankings. Now it’s their spot to lose and they will be back on the scene during the Atlantic City Showcase. They are the hunted now and teams will be pressing up.

2. Playtime Panthers: PP fell in the final four of the Baby Baller Bonanza to New Rens after taking a surprising loss to the CJ Hawks. Right now they are second on our list but the heat is on for them to remain at this spot.

3. New Rens: New Renaissance ran out of gas during the finals of the Baby Baller Bonanza. They have a pesky bunch and stood toe to toe with the best of them this past weekend. We haven’t heard the last of them.

4. Team Takeover: TT moved up from #9 after winning the MIT and AGame Super Shootout. Once they capture a banner they have a chance to increase their climb up the ladder.

5. Team Nelson: TN was bounced out of the Baby Baller Bonanza early but they still are a top notch team. They will have a chance to redeem themselves in the Atlantic City Showcase.

6. CJ Hawks: The Hawks made it to the final four of the Baby Baller Bonanza after making a good run at the MIT.

7. Team Rebels: Our last look at TR was the Baby Baller MLK Classic. We are very anxious to see what they have hopefully we will see them soon.

8. New Heights NYC: I see the talent this team possesses but I still waiting to see them pop. I still believe they are a very dangerous team.

9. DC Assault: I believe DCA probably should have a higher ranking but I haven’t seen them in the fire yet. They had a decent showing at the MIT and Easter weekend they will be making their Spotlight debut in America’s Playground.

10. NWK: The tough guys from the “Brick City” rounds out our Top 10. Their next Spotlight event also will be the AC Showcase.

Introducing: Trevon Patterson (Hoop Nation)

Trevon Patterson (Hoop Nation)

Standing 5’7, many feel this true Baby Baller might the talk of New Jersey in a few years. I know we are a long way off but Patterson got off to a great start at the Baby Baller Bonanza. He led the team in scoring while helping Hoop Nation reach the final four. What’s real scary is that his first cousin is 6’9 sophomore giant Quadree Moore from Linden.

Ballin365 Presents: JaheimTanksley Showing A Few Skills

Baby Baller Bonanza 12U Recap: Top Performers Part 2

Huran Ransom (NWK)

The 12U Division at the Baby Baller Bonanza was loaded with good players and a few surprises. Here’s Part 2 of Top Performers from the 12U Division.

Baby Baller Bonanza Top Performers 12U Part 2

Huran Ransom Forward (NWK)- The other part of NWK two headed monster had serious presence in the post. He didn’t have the range of Askew but could break defenders down off the dribble and finish in traffic. In the semifinal win he was too much for DC Assault on the glass and scoring in the paint. He had an overall strong showing.

Prentiss Hubb Guard (DC Assault)- Hubb towered over the opposing guards to make passes or score the ball. He was able to knock down a few treys even though spent most of the weekend fast breaking. His fluid jumper is a weapon this team can utilize for the remainder of the season.




Zegary Scott Guard (Playtime)- Scott is brave enough to drive down the throat of any defense. He’s getting better at picking his spots and avoiding trapping situations. He also can score when giving the right opportunity. I think he could be a sneaky prospect down the road.




Mikey Watkins Guard (Team IZOD)- Watkins has to lead the Basketball Spotlight circuit in assist. He often finds himself in the middle of IZOD’s Lethal Weapon 3 fast break. Having Brooks and Nowell on either side gives Watkins the luxury of not making a wrong choice and he takes full advantage.

Rob Higgins Guard (Playtime)- Higgins hasn’t been bashful since coming over to Playtime. We know he likes the jumper from the corner but when the defense closes out he dribbles past with flair. His confidence level always seems to be on 10.

Baby Baller Bonanza 12U Recap: Top Performers Part 1

Brandon Askew (NWK)

The 12U Division at the Baby Baller Bonanza was loaded with good players and a few surprises. Here’s Part 1 of the Top Performers from the 12U Division.

Baby Baller Bonanza Top Performers 12U Part 1

Brandon Askew Forward (NWK)- In the past Askew showed his dominance in the post but at this event he opened up his entire game. Brandon was the most accurate 3 point shooter from this event. He shot the trey ball with confidence while being a matchup nightmare for the defense. He punished the opposition with strong drives and acrobatic finishes. Askew was by far the most productive player this weekend in Lakewood. He posted big numbers each game out.

Tyrek Chambers Forward (Team IZOD)- Chambers finally looks comfortable with the “Fly Guys”. His best performance came against Playtime in their come from behind semifinal win. Tyrek killed the green and black with polished post moves and strong transitional finishes. He does need to understand that he doesn’t need to push the ball up the floor himself after grabbing the rebound but instead outlet the rock to a guard for the secondary or fast break.

D’Marco Baucey Forward (DC Assault)- Wow, we might be looking at the future of Potomac Valley basketball. Baucey stands about 6’5 and can literally play all five positions on the floor. He was undeniably the best prospect in the building even after falling short of leading his team to the finals. He might be one of the best overall prospects in the entire DC Assault program.


Jalen Brooks Guard (Team IZOD)- Brooks averaged double figures during the Bonanza including leading to team with 16 markers against Team Final. The majority of his buckets came on breakaway lay ups as Team IZOD got up and down the floor quickly. He brings a wealth of winning experience to this squad and they utilize it when they need to make a comeback.


Al-Quan Dwight Guard (NWK)- The kid with the black long sleeves brought a lot of swagger to the Bonanza. He shot down defenses from the perimeter while also breaking down opposing guards with his slick handle. During their victory over DC Assault Dwight broke the ankles of 3 defenders trying to trap him in the corner. "Brick City" has another big time guard on the horizon.


Tavon Jones Guard (Team IZOD)- Jones has become the glue guy for this squad. He uses his speed and athleticism to fill the lane, help out on the boards and play the passing lanes on defense. He’s one of the best slashers on this age level. He’s definitely the type of player that leaves everything on the floor when he’s done playing.

Baby Baller Bonanza Recap: 11U Top Performers Part 2

Mark Bradshaw (Team Nelson)

Here’s a Part 2 of the Top Performers from the 11U Division of the Baby Baller Bonanza.

Baby Baller Bonanza Top Performers Part 2

Mark Bradshaw Guard (Team Nelson)- The lefty did his usual scoring damage while dropping 16 points against New Rens and another 16 markers during their 2 point win over rival NJ ABC. His team loss out on the final four because of the point system but he still represented.

Ahsan Huland EL Forward (Playtime)- The big lefty averaged 11 points a game and double figures in rebounds. He moves well on the blocks and demands the rock from the guards. He has better than average touch while out working opponents for the ball. He was a much needed piece to the Panthers puzzle.

Joshua Pierre Louis Guard (ECE-NJABC)- Josh was out to make a name for himself and I see some skills in the younger Pierre Louis. He as more of a point guard feel for the game than his older brother but does have the ability to also score the pill. I think we will see his breakout tournament soon.

Charles Noonan Forward (New Heights)- Noonan had a big game in their loss to Playtime. He finished with 18 points on some very athletic plays. His team had a tough weekend but we look forward to seeing them in action again soon.

Bryan Antione Forward (CJ Hawks)- In a few years don’t be surprised if Antione turns into one of the top players in the region. Right now he’s all legs which mean he has tons of growing to go. He showed some skills from the perimeter and creating his own shot.

Stephen Lubischer Guard (CJ Hawks)- Lubischer exploded against Brockton Bulldogs for 16 points. He can shoot the deep, midrange shot or attacked the rim. He plays the game at a very fast pace.

Alex Klatsky Guard (CJ Hawks)- Speaking of the perimeter this kid can really stroke it. He usually sets up in the corner and receives the rock after running through the offense. He led the team in 3 point field goals over the weekend.

Baby Baller Bonanza Recap: 11U Top Performers Part 1

AJ Hoggard (ECE-NJABC)

The Baby Baller Bonanza 11U Division was very competitive from top to bottom. Here’s a look at some of the top performers that graced the hardwood in Lakewood, NJ.

Baby Baller Bonanza 11U Top Performers Part 1

Anthony Hoggard Guard (ECE-NJABC)- Hoggard has officially moved over to the point guard spot and seems to love his new role. He fired no look passes all weekend while getting into the lane at will. Now as a point guard he must understand to channel his emotions a little better because its affects the entire team. But being only 11 he has time on his side.

Cole Anthony Guard (New Rens)- Anthony had a tremendous weekend especially in their pool play classic against NJABC. Cole buried several three balls but kept the crowd on their feet with his sweet spin moves near the bucket. He rebounds the ball well for a guard and has a polished game. His best performance came in their thrilling loss to NJABC in which he tallied 23 points.

Kurone Wilson Guard (New Rens)- This lefty was also a crowd pleaser for New Rens. He cut up the defense with double crossovers and used his athleticism to finish off double clutch shots at the rim. Defenders had a difficult time keeping this kid in front. He blasted Team Nelson for 18 markers in their 11 point victory.

Jordan McKoy Guard (Playtime)- At the end of the day McKoy might be the best prospect from this bunch. He has a natural feel for the game and some polished moves. Once he realizes how good he could be and develops a killer instinct his stock should shoot through the roof. His best game was a 20 point outing versus New Heights.



Darrian Dalcourt Forward (ECE-NJABC)- Dalcourt was just what the doctor ordered for NJABC. He dominated the glass and converted put backs against New Rens. The NY squad had no answer for this youngster on the boards. Darrian understands his role so he doesn’t dance around on the perimeter but instead goes straight to the blocks to post up.



Jelanie Carter Guard (Playtime)- Carter caught fire during their game against Brockton Bulldogs. He nailed 4 treys on his way to 17 points. As the shots started falling his confidence grew. Jelanie looked very comfortable from anywhere behind the arc but loves shooting it from the corner.

Baby Baller Bonanza 12U Championship Recap: Team IZOD Holds Off NWK

"Fly Guys" Grab Another Banner!

Markquis Nowell scored 18 points while Jalen Brooks and Tyrek Chambers scored 10 points apiece to help Team IZOD defeat NWK 56-53 to win the Baby Baller Bonanza 12U Championship.

MVP
Markquis Nowell (Team IZOD)- When Nowell wasn’t launching deep bombs he was finishing off fast breaks with lay ups. He got out in transition in a hurry and also ran the floor well in the secondary break. His best all around game might have been during their pool play blow out of Team Final. Nowell only tallied 9 points but showed some point guard skills while getting his teammates involved.

Baby Baller Bonanza 11U Championship Recap: ECE-NJABC Grabs Another Crown

ECE-NJABC Snatches The Banner

Jalen Gaffney and AJ Hoggard scored 12 apiece as ECE-NJABC defeated New Rens 44-19 to win the Baby Baller Bonanza. Kurone Wilson scored 12 points for New Rens in the loss.

MVP
Jalen Gaffney (ECE-NJABC)- Gaffney jumped deep into the POY race after this performance. E took bumps and bruises while still killing the competition. Jalen had the floater working along with deep bombs. His finest hour came against New Rens in their pool play battle. Gaffney finished with 20 points and answered each New Rens run with a trey ball.

Baby Baller Bonanza 10U Championship Recap: Rip City Runs Through The Bonanza

Rip City Mercy Ruled The Field

Jhamir Brickus scored 13 points as RIP City defeated CJ Hawks 33-13 to win the Baby Baller Bonanza 10U Championship. Congratulations to Rip City coaches and players for their victory.

Roster
Rahdir Hicks #1
Malik Edwards #2
Jhamir Brickus #3
Maki Mullen #4
Ricky Ortega #6
Rasheen Caulk #8
Mahir Sharif #10
Michael Eze #11
Malcolm Folk #12
Jonathan Proctor #21
Steve Pittman #22
Anthony Rightley #41

Diary Of A Baller: Tyus "Kid Mamba" Battle (Edison, NJ) Entry #28

What’s up basketball world, I am here again to tell about another week.

Monday was a really good day, school was really cool, my classes all went very smooth and the day actually went fast for the first day back. Monday afternoon, I went home and hung out with my brother after finishing up all of my homework a lot earlier than usual.

Tuesday the first part of the day went fast, school seems to be getting easier. I think because the weather has been great and the teachers are all in a good mood. I had a few quizzes and test that I am pretty happy with the results on. After school I worked out for 2 hours with Bryce from Impossible Training. We worked on my pull-up for about 30 to 40 minutes and then we did some unreal ball-handling drills with the heavy ball and a regular basketball also.

Wednesday my dad returned from his business conference in Las Vegas with a lot of energy. I was a little tired from a long weekend and although I did not show it, I was very happy that he was back. We pretty much just hung out and laughed a lot when he returned. I no doubt hit the weights a little and did my 250 push-ups before I went to bed but we played no basketball which all right sometimes.

Thursday I worked hard with my dad after a tough day at school. We went to the gym at 8’oclock and he killed me for 2 hours. We did shooting, ball-handling, heavy ball, suicides with the heavy ball and individual moves of the bounce. We went really hard the entire 2 hours, with one short water break and we were all very focused. Dad was not fooling around at all. I love the workouts with my dad because he is really intense and we get a lot done.

Friday school was good and it went a little slow because I wanted to go home and get little nap. It has been a long week and I cannot wait to get in the bed for a little rest. After some sleep and an hour of video games to relax, my brother and I had school practice. School practice was good and it went really fast. We were preparing for our first ever middle school championship and I could not wait.

Saturday morning, I got up early because I was so excited about the game. When the game started both teams hit their first few shots and at the half I only had about 10 points and we winning by just a few points. When the second half started we just hit the ground faster than they did and pulled away with a 24 point and I was MVP of the game. After the game my dad said I really dominated the game on both ends and showed great leadership. Every once in a while my dad gives me a compliment and when he does it pretty cool.

Sorry to end so abruptly but I have to go. I have a lot of homework to do but very little time to get it done. This is Tyus Battle signing off.