The 12U Division had some remarkable play and produced a new champion. Here’s Part 2 of our report of the top performers from this event.
AC Showcase 12U Top Performers Part 2
Mike Speights Forward (Bump and Run)- Speights was definitely the best scorer in this event. He popped KSK for 37 points and hit up NWK for 36 markers. His team didn’t fare well in their debut but he left his mark in America’s Playground. This kid scores the rock like we breathe.
Fatayn Wesley Guard (RIP City)- Wesley had his outside stroke going this weekend. He drained 4 treys against Team IZOD and knocked down 3 more against Team Melo. The stage was bright in Atlantic City and Wesley stepped up and showed his skills. He made the defense pay each time out.
Huran Ransom Forward (NWK)- Ransom bullied his way to a good showing this weekend. He dominated along the baseline and when charging the basket. He averaged 14 points over the weekend as NWK gave their usual great effort.
Rob Higgins Guard (Playtime)- Higgins showed his hot rod style in their close loss to Riverside. He found his range by nailing 2 treys on his way to 20 points. He has a lot of flash in his game but also loads of substance.
Al-Quan Dwight Guard (NWK)- Dwight didn’t back down against the national comp. He’s one of the smoothest guards in the region and tough as nails. He had 16 points in their pool play loss to KSK. He’s one we will definitely keep an eye on.
Luther Muhammad Guard (KSK)- Muhammad continued his dominant season from a scoring standpoint. His physical style of play allows him to be one of the best finishers in the region. He’s always in attack when he has the rock.
Emil Moody Forward (RIP City)- Moody provided the inside presence for RIP City. He scored some decent numbers and spent a lot of time at the charity stripe. He has the size to be a force on this level for years to come.
The 12U Division had some remarkable play and produced a new champion. Here’s Part 1 of our report of the top performers from this event.
AC Showcase 12U Top Performers Part 1
Shariff Kenny Forward (DC Assault)- Kenny was the high scorer for DCA this past weekend. During the championship he hurt Team IZOD with weak side rebounds and put backs. No one had a player that could match his tenacity on the glass and scoring inside. He was an intimidating force all weekend.
Jared Bynum Guard (DC Assault)- Bynum ran the show for DCA and hit some gut wrenching shots during the finals. His nailed 3 treys during the championship game including a big 3 pointer as time expired at the half. He played with serious poise throughout this event.
Prentiss Hubb Guard (DC Assault)- Hubb’s confidence on the floor stands out. He has improved speed and it showed in the open floor. He averaged double figures during this event while helping DCA gain their first banner. His swagger was on another level.
Justin Winston Forward (Team IZOD)- Justin was the most consistent player for IZOD during this event. He was active inside on both ends of the floor and was able to knockdown a few baseline midrange shots. He does seem to shy away from contact which must change if this team wants to make a national championship run.
Tyrek Chambers Forward (Team IZOD)- Chambers also battled hard for the “Fly Guys”. I like how he has extended his range beyond the 3 point line. The wiggle in his game and compact frame makes him a difficult match up for defenders. He finished with 15 points in the finals.
Atiba Taylor Guard (KSK)- Taylor once again showed why he’s regarded as one of the best guards in the country. He shot the 3 ball with confidence and dropped some tremendous dimes. His size and court awareness makes him a rarity on the basketball floor. He’s a star in the making.
Nazereon Reid Forward (KSK)-Reid seems to be settling in with is new squad. He’s a human wall inside on defense and will knockdown the open shot near the free throw line. Give him a few more events and he should be ready to help this team reach another level.
The 11U Division had some more players that shined in the Atlantic City Showcase. Here’s Part 2 of our report.
AC Showcase 11U Top Performers Part 2
Terrence Williams Forward (Team Takeover)- The nimble big fella used his touch and moves to score inside while also hitting the glass. He had a couple of big scoring games including 14 points vs. CBC and 14 points in their pool play classic versus ECE-NJABC. He knows how to score in traffic and make it look easy.
Mark Bradshaw Guard (Team Nelson)- Bradshaw might be the purest scorer on the 11U level. The southpaw dropped a game high 20 markers against the Gauchos and 16 against KSK in their other win. He thrives in transition but also can knock down the trey ball from very deep. He’s definitely a scoring machine.
Charles Noonan Forward (New Heights)- Noonan saved his best game for their semifinal win against Team Nelson. He scored 16 points in the victory while helping New Heights reach their first Spotlight championship game of the year.
Justin Lykes Guard (DC Assault)- Lykes has range out of this world, during their game against ECE-NJABC he was pulling treys from the hash mark. His deep treys enabled him to score 16 points in their semifinal loss and hit a few buckets in their game against Team Nelson.
Dontae Scott Forward (Team Nelson)- The strong forward clogged the lane well and rebounded the rock. He doesn’t wait to receive to rock from his teammates but instead earns his living hammering the glass. He’s truly a blue collar player.
Justice Ellison Guard (Team Takeover)- The show time guard woke up during their final pool play game against ECE-NJABC. The southpaw scored 12 points including 2 treys while also controlling the tempo. His team ended up losing this highly contested game.
Mikeal Jones Forward (Team Nelson)- Jones has the potential to be a big time prospect down the road. He’s long, wiry and definitely has a nose for the ball. He blocks or alters shots regularly and jumps quickly off his feet. Watch out for him in a few years.
Mekhi Long Guard (DC Assault)- Long can score quickly especially during the fast breaks. He collected 14 points during KSK and 12 against ECE-NJABC to close out is weekend. Hopefully we get a chance to watch him in action again.
The 11U division had some of the best Baby Ballers on the East Coast at the AC Showcase. Here’s a breakdown of those players that stood out the most during this event.
AC Showcase 11U Top Performers Part 1
Jalen Gaffney Guard (ECE-NJABC)- Gaffney performance during this event showed why he should be the front runner for the Player Of The Year. The Burlington County guard was clutch throughout the entire weekend including big time buckets against Team Takeover and DC Assault during the semifinals. The deeper they went into the tournament the more he stepped up. Gaffney is very hot right now.
Jagger Zrada Guard (ECE-NJABC)- Whenever NJABC needed a big bucket or a trey Zrada stepped up. He buried the three-ball and came up with big numbers (13 vs. DC Assault and 12 vs. New Heights). He’s tough as nails and willing to take the big shot whenever he’s needed.
Dajaun Piper Guard (New Heights)- Piper had things flowing during the AC Showcase. He scored team high 14 points in their big win over Team Takeover in the semifinals. His big play ability will make him a good prospect down the road. I like what I see from this kid in terms of potential.
AJ Hoggard Guard (ECE-NJABC)- Hoggard was noticeably absent on Saturday but showed up Sunday to help his team get the gold medals. He didn’t force the issue in the scoring column but instead continued to feed his teammates that were hot over the weekend.
Akrum Ahemed Guard (New Heights)- The smooth shooting wing player played his part to help NH reach the finals. He can score different places on the floor and when confident puts pressure on the defense. We have our eye on his development.
Tyler Brelsford Guard (DC Assault)- DCA attack starts with this crafty point guard. He never rushes but splits the defense and makes the correct decision when necessary. This floor general can also score numbers with his floater in the lane including with his left hand.
The NYC Gauchos returned to the Spotlight on fire as they defeated St. Michaels 55-34 to win the Atlantic City Showcase 14U Orange Division title. Congrats to the Gauchos for finally winning the Spotlight banner. Stay tune as we bring you more coverage from the 14U division of this event.
The Long Island Bombers defeated New Heights to win the Atlantic City Showcase 14U Blue Division Championship. Congrats to the Long Island Bombers for winning their first Spotlight crown. Stay tune as we bring you more coverage from the 14U Division from this event.
Team Dejavu won the Basketball Spotlight Atlantic City Showcase 13U Blue Division championship. Congrats to Team Dejavu and welcome to Basketball Spotlight. Stay tune as we bring you more coverage from the 13U division of this event.
CBC Dons Black Hoodies In Tribute To Trayvon Martin
In the best game of this event CBC held off a strong Milbank squad 53-49 to win the Atlantic City Showcase 13U Orange division championship. Congrats to #1 CBC for winning another championship. Stay tune as we bring you more coverage from the 13U division of this event.
Wall 2 Wall backed up heavy talk by defeating the 6th Man Warriors 43-37 to win the Atlantic City Showcase 12U Blue Division Championship. Congrats to Wall 2 Wall for winning the title and welcome to Basketball Spotlight. Stay tune as we bring you more coverage from the 12U division of this event.
DC Assault used their length and high scoring ability to defeat Team IZOD 56-51 and capture the Atlantic City Showcase 12U Orange Division Championship. Congrats to DC Assault for winning the crown and stay tune because as we bring you more coverage from the 12U Division of this event.
The Mid Jersey Mavericks had a great game to defeat Advanced Hoops 41-21 and win the Atlantic City Showcase Blue Division 11U Championship. Congrats to Mid Jersey Mavericks for winning their first Basketball Spotlight banner. Stay tune as we bring you more coverage of the 11U Division from the Atlantic City Showcase.
ECE-NJABC had a balanced scoring attack to defeat New Heights 39-25 to win the Atlantic City Showcase 11U Orange Division Champion. Congrats to ECE-NJABC for winning another banner. Stay tune as we bring you more coverage from the 11U Division at the Atlantic City Showcase.
What’s up basketball world, I’m back with entry 32.
Tuesday after school my brother, mom, and I went to Red Robin restaurant to get some food. When we finished eating my mom dropped us off at the gym to work out with a few friends. After the workout my dad was angry because I was not talking enough on defense and going through the motions on my shot. He was so mad that he threw my phone out the window of his car into what he thought was all grass and made me go out and get it. It turns out it was not all grass and the phone hit a rock and broke. Luckily after my dad and I talked about what happened he felt bad about what he did and decided to by me a new phone. He said he should have never done such a thing and the only reason he got really irritated was that I was looking at my phone while he was talking to me. He said that he was wrong and bought the new Droid Razor Maxx for me. I love dad and his old school way and love my new Droid.
Wednesday was a half day because it was our last day of school before spring break. As soon as I got home I got dressed and went to the gym for about an hour and 30 minutes. While there, I mostly worked on moves to the basket and finishes at the rim. After I went home relaxed and played MW3 for a few hours.
Thursday I finally got my new phone at 3 and I have to say it is much better than my old one. It has 4G, the pictures are extremely clear, and the battery almost never runs out of charge. After I played around with the phone a little bit I had to go workout with Julian at the Club of Woodbridge. He really had me focus on my legs by doing a lot of different workout with lunges and squats.
Friday I went to work out at HoopsAmerica at 6. For the first 30 minutes we worked on making moves to the basket. After all we did was play games; one on ones, three on threes, and then ended it with a five on five game.
Saturday I woke up earlier than I’ve done all week because I had a scrimmage at Life Center. Our first game we played The old Rebels Team who is now Team Final Black. During the game we tried to expand the lead a couple of times but every time we went up by around 10 or 15 they would make a run and come back. We ended up winning the game by 8, 70-62, but we had multiple times to put them away. Our second game we played Hoop Heaven and won this game big 53-97. Even though we played better than the game before we still could have played better and had fewer turnovers.
After the games a few of my friends and I went to the bowling alley. Truthfully I was not even focusing on the bowling. Khalif was playing this basketball game in the arcade, the rest of the boys were killing the hot wings, and the girls were talking with each other. When our 2 hours at the bowling ally ran out we went back to my friend Josh’s house and hung out until my stepmom picked us up at eleven.
Sunday my dad and I went to the gym for an hour before he brought us to my mom’s house. As soon as I got to my mom’s place I fell asleep for a few hours. Before I sign out I would like to wish everybody a Happy Easter and I would like to say thank you to coach Brown for giving us the new gear for Team Final and my dad for my new phone
Our final before reaching the Grand Finale takes to the tournament that started it all, “The MDC”. The Memorial Day Classic is the grandfather of all the Basketball Spotlight events and will be on fire once again this year. We are anticipating another sell out so don’t miss your chance to register for this event.
Event: Memorial Day Classic Date: May 25th Thru 27th Place: Neptune, NJ Ages: 10U Thru 15U Cost: $400.00 (Multi-Team Discount Available)
When you go to this tournament, you never know what to truly expect. You will see great competition despite the many unfamiliar names on the jerseys. I always enjoy going to this tournament, great hospitality, great staff, great atmosphere, and like always, great entertaining games. I watched double overtime games, buzzer beaters, and games filled with drama throughout. In the 14u division, there was not a true winner, the Houston Defenders Select 2016 squad, which is AAU’s Division I #6 team in the nation, were scheduled to play for the championship against their second team, Houston Defenders, which is Division II’s #4 ranked team, but decided to head back to Texas sharing the crown.
M.V.P ************************************ J.R. Adams #13 Houston Defenders (TX) This young man packed his lunchbox and hardhat for this tournament sacrificing everything he had on both ends of the court. He hit timely ‘big-time’ shots game after game for his team, whether it was with the jump-shot or getting to the rim. He showed us all why he is considered one of the most unselfish ‘scorers’ in the 2016 class. Mr. Big Stuff ********************** ***************** Drake Davis #24 Red Storm (LA) This 6’3’’ youngster was beastly throughout the tournament, dominating everyone in front of him. He was untouchable in the paint, scoring at will, rebounding everything that came on his side. He played his part to perfection in being considered the other guy in the ‘twin towers’ tandem. I loved this guy’s energy in the post.
SIR SMOOTHIE KING *********************************** J.J. Caldwell #23 Houston Defenders Select 2016 (TX) This PG is smooth as there is, he makes things look so easy, like everything is going in slow motion to him. His passes seem like they go straight through opponents. His jump-shot was ‘wet’ from all over the floor, keeping his opponents honest. I will put him up against some of the best in the country on any given day.
THE DOMINANT ONE ***************************************** Donovan White #23 Sports Academy (LA) This kid has a big frame with extreme athleticism and agility that goes hard on every drive to the basket. He has cat-like reflexes to change directions easily. He displayed a deadly midrange jump shot that devastated his opponents that backed off of him.
DA GHOST *********************************** Ashton Ray #3 Madison County Warriors (AL) This young man was there one moment then gone the next,, he was so shifty with the ball that defenders just couldn’t stay in front of him. He could get to the cup and finish strong or pop a ‘pull up j’ that was astonishing. He ran his team’s offense with precision matched by so few in this tournament.
Man, Don’t Let the Looks Fool You ************************************** Trevor Begue #12 Lafayette Celtics (LA) WOW! This young man could play! He scored on just about everyone that faced off against him. His jump-shot was as sweet as sugar. He could penetrate to the cup and score with ease, and I mean he went at whoever was in front of him. He had a chip on his shoulder that took everyone by surprised.
Troy Green #2 Louisiana Takers Elite This guy was something right out of Greek mythology for sure, his chiseled frame intimidated all of his foes for sure. He displayed great body control in the air with authority. He finished many fastbreaks with polished moves and agility. When he was at in the air, it was over, another made bucket. The big fella’ also was a beast in the paint on both ends, dominating to perfection for his team.
MR. HUSTLE *************************************** Zaire Jones #1 Meridian Magic (MS) This youngster went hard throughout the tournament on both ends. At about 5’8’’, Jones was a terror on defense and even on the boards. His physicality gave opponents fits, with that topped off with his speed, it just made him a difficult guy to contain. I loved his athleticism and enthusiasm to play every play like it was his last.
The 13U division is stacked as usual. There is so much parity in this group. Here’s a breakdown of which teams that will be driving down the AC Expressway.
AC Showcase 13U Preview
CBC: The “Money Team” will be trying to make their 3rd championship appearance of the season. They came close several times but never took home the AC Showcase crown. Now they enter this field with their loaded cast looking to get it done.
Team IZOD: The Big Red Machine seems to be back in motion after steamrolling the NJ State tournament competition. Now they need to grab them a banner before it’s too late. They face a tough field in America’s Playground.
Team Final: Ok come on fellas you had lofty expectations when the season started now it’s time to get a crown. The stage will be set and it’s time for TF to perform. The heat is own baby.
New Heights: NH has won the MIT but has yet to grab a Spotlight banner. Now as they head to AC they will be looking to get over the hump and take that picture on Sunday.
Milbank: “The Bank” feels they don’t get the respect they deserve as a premiere 13U squad. Now they are willing to show us on the floor. We will pay close attention to this squad once the ball tips off.
Team Melo: After making it to the finals of the Blue Division championship at the Clash Team Melo gets the chance to go Orange. They claim to be a primetime ball club, now they can prove it.
East Coast Elite: ECE has put together some serious talent from the PA/DE area. They have been quiet thus far this season and are due for a breakout. It could happen in Atlantic City.
CT Elite: Word from New England is that this squad has brought together some top talent. Now they will be looking to navigate through and return to the success they enjoyed at the 11U level.
6th Man Warriors: Time has also come for the Warriors; I’m ready to see the squad that ran off some impressive wins at the 12U Nationals last summer.
Other Teams To Watch: KSK, MJ Heat, Team Dejavu, Philly Freedom Stars, and others.
The 12U Division is the best it’s been in years so there’s nothing else left but time to get it on. Here are the top teams and players that will be bringing their talent to Atlantic City.
AC Showcase 12U Preview
Team IZOD: The “Fly Guys” will be coming off winning the Bonanza Banner and looking to regain the Spotlight #1 spot. They have the swagger and talent to be standing at the winner’s circle Sunday night. They first must get through this tough field of teams.
KSK: IZOD has more banners but KSK has the edge in head to head matchups. Now they have a chance to their stamp on the #1 spot and distance themselves from the rest of the participants. We might be looking at another KSK-IZOD clash in the finals.
Riverside Hawks: The #4 team in the country showed a little life at the MIT now they must translate that into a Spotlight event. Don’t be surprised if the crafty squad finds a way to make it to at least the final four.
DC Assault: This squad hasn’t exploded yet but something about them tells me they are a dangerous club. Something weird always seems to happen during this tournament so this could be there coming out party.
Playtime Panthers: PP has been knocking on the door of a title and now it’s time for them to walk in. They will have to knock off some huge foes to reach the pinnacle. Best of luck!
NWK: The first year program has turned a few heads with some impressive victories and a few local championships. Now they must tackle this national field and are capable of beating anyone, ask DC Assault.
DeMarcus Cousins Blue Devils: Regardless of the name of this team they always find good fortune when they travel to Atlantic City. In their last appearance they made it to the finals of the MLK Baby Baller Classic.
East Coast Elite: The Rodney Dangerfield squad of this field will be looking for some respect. They are one of only 3 squads to have a Spotlight banner this year. Now they will be looking to add another. The time has come!
Mass Shooting Stars: After winning the Blue Division of the Clash for The Cup, MSS now has their wish of entering the Orange Division. It’s definitely a different level of intensity and we want to see if they can handle it.
RIP City: RC feels they are among the cream of the crop, so there’s no better way than battle against the best. They will get a chance early in the pool with IZOD and Melo.
Team Melo: Speaking of Melo, they are making a return after putting in work at the Clash. Now they will be looking to make a deep run in AC.
Other Teams To Watch For: Bump and Run, Wall 2 Wall Allentown, 6th Man Warriors and Albany Dream Team
The 11U Division of the AC Showcase features some of the top teams in the country. There will be a lot of bragging rights at stake but only one team will leave with the prize from America’s Playground.
AC Showcase 11U Preview
ECE-NJABC: A little name change didn’t affect this group on the floor. They enter this event with the most Spotlight banners and #1 in our poll. Something must give as they will face Team Takeover and possibly DC Assault. But they might have the best backcourt in America so they are not worried.
Team Takeover: Speaking of TT they have won several tournaments but this will be their Spotlight debut if the season. Can they handle the hostile environment of AC combined with the treacherous competition? We will definitely see this weekend.
Team Nelson: TN seems to have NJABC’s number in head to heads battles. Now the Mid Atlantic squad needs to find a way to make it deeper in the tournament to really cause some havoc. There’s nowhere to hide!
Gauchos: I haven’t seen this group but their program reputation has tossed them into the fire. I hope they can handle the pressure or they will be in for a long weekend. Your guard play must be equipped for this type of event.
DC Assault: This DCA group has been absent from the Spotlight scene for a while and we are anxious to see them in battle. They have one of the top point guards in the country and will need him to have a huge weekend.
New Heights: NH has been right there and now it’s time for them to cross the threshold. They have some tough guards and capable scorers. Now they must figure a way to fight their way out of this vigorous pool.
CBC: This squad made a lot of noise at 10U last season but a few personnel changes has given them a different look. Hopefully they bring that toughness that Hartford, CT is known for.
Other Teams To Watch For: KSK, NWK, 6th Man Warriors, Mid Jersey Mavericks
The Basketball Spotlight 14U Orange Division Schedule is listed below. Please be on time for your games. Our rules concerning the grace period will be in full effect.
Pool R 1. Gauchos 2. St. Michaels 3. Rock Elite 4. Team Philly
Pool S 1. East Coast Elite 2. Annandale Boys and Girls 3. Mass Shooting Stars 4. CT Elite
The Basketball Spotlight 14U Blue Division Schedule is listed below. Please be on time for your games. Our rules concerning the grace period will be in full effect.
Pool T 1. NJ Shore Shots 2. Boston Spartans 3. Lehigh Valley 4. CT Elite (Cameron)
Pool U 1. New Heights 2. MJ Heat 3. Milbank 4. The Bombers
Saturday April 7th 9:00 AM T1-T2 (UPTOWN) 9:00 AM T3-T4 (SOVEREIGN) 11:20 AM T1-T3 (UPTOWN) 11:20 AM T2-T4 (SOVEREIGN) 5:10 PM U1-U2 (UPTOWN) 5:10 PM U3-U4 (SOVEREIGN) 8:40 PM U1-U3 (UPTOWN) 8:40 PM U2-U4 (SOVEREIGN)
Sunday April 8th 10:10 AM U1-U4 (SOVEREIGN) 11:20 AM U2-U3 (SOVEREIGN) 12:30 PM T1-T4 (SOVEREIGN) 1:40 PM T2-T3 (SOVEREIGN) 4:00 PM 1ST T-2ND U (MLK) SEMIFINAL 4:00 PM 1ST U-2ND T (NY AVE) SEMIFINAL 6:20 PM 14U BLUE CHAMPIONSHIP (MLK)
Sites ATLANTIC CITY HIGH SCHOOL 1400 NORTH ALBANY AVENUE ATLANTIC CITY, NJ 08401
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING SCHOOL 1700 MARMORA AVENUE ATLANTIC CITY, NJ 08401
NEW YORK AVENUE SCHOOL 411 NORTH NEW YORK AVENUE ATLANTIC CITY, NJ 08401
SOVEREIGN AVENUE SCHOOL 111 N. SOVEREIGN AVENUE ATLANTIC CITY, NJ 08401
UPTOWN COMPLEX SCHOOL 323 MADISON AVENUE ATLANTIC CITY, NJ 08401
Mike Speights (Bump and Run)
Fatayn Wesley Guard (RIP City)- Wesley had his outside stroke going this weekend. He drained 4 treys against Team IZOD and knocked down 3 more against Team Melo. The stage was bright in Atlantic City and Wesley stepped up and showed his skills. He made the defense pay each time out.
Rob Higgins Guard (Playtime)- Higgins showed his hot rod style in their close loss to Riverside. He found his range by nailing 2 treys on his way to 20 points. He has a lot of flash in his game but also loads of substance.
Luther Muhammad Guard (KSK)- Muhammad continued his dominant season from a scoring standpoint. His physical style of play allows him to be one of the best finishers in the region. He’s always in attack when he has the rock.
