Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Basketball Spotlight Video Exclusive: Damon Harge Mixtape

Damon Harge Breaking Ankles  

Damon Harge Jr. is back with his official mixtape. The 7th Grader has been known to rip up some defenses in the past. His quickness, play making ability and ball handling has drawn comparison to Sebastian Telfair. Check out Harge’s newest highlight reel. 

 

Monday, February 11, 2013

Inside The Clash For The Cup 6th Grade: Now Things Get Interesting!

CIA Bounce Breaks Through  

The 6th Grade Division of the Clash For The Cup was had some great games and surprises. Here’s our final look at the developments from this grade level. 

Inside The Clash For The Cup 6th Grade 

CIA Bounce Crashes The Party 
When the 6th Grade field was lined up for the Clash the early favorites were Team IZOD, Metro Flyers or Team Nelson but no one gave CIA Bounce the memo. The Canadian squad came through and stole the show. They won the championship in impressive fashion and will move up in our rankings. 

The Races Tightens Up!
The Road to the Grand Finale in the 6th Grade Division got tight after the Clash For The Cup. Metro Flyers (8 points) currently lead the point system followed by Team IZOD and Team Nelson (7 points apiece). That means the AC Showcase will give us a great outlook for the Grand Finale picture. 

Clash For The Cup 6th Grade All Tournament Team 
Tah –Jai Walters (CIA Bounce) 
Joel Brown (CIA Bounce) 
Josh Pierre Louis (Metro Flyers) 
Danny Rodriquez (Metro Flyers) 
Charles Brown (Metro Flyers) 
Mikeal Jones (Team Nelson) 
Mark Bradshaw (Team Nelson) 
Hakim Byrd (Team Nelson)
Jaymir Garnett (6th Man Warriors) 
Tay Allen (6th Man Warriors) 
Cole Antony (New Rens) 
Judah McIntyre (New Rens) 
Hakeem Hart Jr. (Philly Pride) 
Majay Butler (Philly Pride)

Inside The Clash For The Cup 7th Grade: International Invasion!

CIA Bounce Answered The Bell  

The 7th Grade Division of the Clash For The Cup was something to watch and here’s a final look at the developments from this event including the All Tournament Team. 

Inside The Clash For The Cup 7th Grade 

CIA Bounce Wants “Supreme Team” 
CIA Bounce won the Clash title but they felt the mission wasn’t complete with a rematch with Team IZOD. IZOD defeated CIA in the semifinals at the Tip Off Classic but had to pull out the Clash. This rematch might happen if the Canadian squad joins the awesome field in Atlantic City. I would love to see them tangle again. 

Gauchos Make Some Noise! 
The Gauchos entered the Clash with something to prove and they got the job done. The Boys from the Bronx fought through the tough terrain to make it to the finals. I like their personnel and the energy they play with on the court. The Choz seem ready for some work. 

Clash For The Cup 7th Grade All Tournament Team 
Danilo Djuricic (CIA Bounce) 
Simisola Shittu (CIA Bounce) 
John Akende (CIA Bounce) 
Jonathan Kabongo (CIA Bounce) 
Keshaun Saunders (CIA Bounce) 
Walter Tally (Gauchos) 
Jordan McCallister (Gauchos) 
Jalen Lecque (Gauchos) 
Myles Dread (Metro Sixers) 
Justin Moore (Metro Sixers) 
Brandon Slater (Metro Sixers) 
Dallas Watson (Milbank)

Inside The Clash For The Cup 8th Grade: Playaz Are Not Playing Around!

Playaz Make Their Move  

The 8th Grade Division of the Clash For The Cup is history but here’s a final look at the developments from this event including the All Tournament Team. 

Inside The Clash For The Cup 8th Grade 

Playaz Emerge! 
Yes, the Playaz Basketball Club has emerged as a serious squad in contention of the Grand Finale banner. They have won several tournaments and seem to be peaking at the right time. Last season the 8th Grade group lost in the finals to Team Scan but this crew might be able to write their own history. 

Pressure On For Team Final 
This group entered the season as one of the favorites to repeat as Grand Finale Champions, but after not receiving any points in their first two events things look kind of bleak. Now they Mid Atlantic must sweep the AC Showcase and MDC for a chance at the Grand Finale final four. It’s a tough road but not impossible. 

Clash For The Cup 8th Grade All Tournament Team 
Jamir Harris (Playaz) 
Tristan Patterson (Playaz) 
Leondre Washington (Playaz) 
RJ Cole (Playaz) 
Marcus McClary (Playaz) 
Jamir Moultrie (DC Assault) 
Chris Lykes (DC Assault) 
Chy’ree Walker (DC Assault) 
Luther Anderson (DC Assault) 
Douglass Cooper (DC Assault) 
Anthony McNish (CIA Bounce)
Khalif Crawford (Team IZOD) 
Patrick Stryzala (Team IZOD) 
Trevon Duval (Team IZOD)

Clash For The Cup Highlights Feat. Zion "The Lion" Harmon (Team Glory)

 

Zion “The Lion” Harmon is widely known as the best 4th Grader in America and he has made Basketball Spotlight his personal stage. During the Clash For The Cup he led Team Glory to the finals where they lost by one. Check out some of his work on this highlights. Stay tuned because we have more to come.

Diary Of A Baller: Nate "The Great" Pierre Louis (Plainfield, NJ) Entry #8

Nate In Italy  

Hello, basketball world I had a great and I’m happy to share it with you guys. 

Monday was a not like a regular school day because I actually woke up in a good mode. I was happy because I had my mom science block and we were dissecting frogs. We have learned about the human anatomy and now were ready to venture into the body of a frog. I was so excited but I tried to come into to school and stay to myself but my friends quickly changed my mood. We dissected for an hour and it was a smooth ride. After school I went straight to my workout, took a long nap, ate dinner and went back to sleep again. 

Sunday, February 10, 2013

Clash For The Cup Highlights Feat. Tah Jai Walters and Joel Brown (Canadian Connection)



Tah Jai Walters and Joel Brown (Canadian Connection) led the CIA Bounce 6th Grade to the Clash For The Cup Championship. The Canadian Connection put on a show and they took the banner back across the border. Check out some of their highlights and stay tuned as we bring you more coverage from this exclusive event.

Friday, February 8, 2013

Clash For The Cup Highlights Feat: Josh "The Jet" Pierre Louis

 

We have been talking about the emergence of Josh Pierre Louis and now you guys can see with your own eyes. Pierre Louis led the Metro Flyers to the championship game of the Clash For The Cup. His quickness is blinding at times therefore we need to call him Josh “The Jet” Pierre Louis. Stay tuned because we have more coverage to come. 

Clash For The Cup 6th Grade Top Performers: Part 3

Cole Anthony (New Rens)  

Here’s our final look at the Clash of The Cup 6th Grade Top Performers. 

Clash For The Cup 6th Grade Top Performers Part 3 

Cole Anthony Guard (New Rens)- Anthony was too much for the opposition in the Blue Division. He’s been a natural for a few years but now has added some size to his frame. In the finals Philly Pride tried to make a run but when Anthony reentered the game his play helped close the door on the boys from the Quaker State. 
 
Judah McIntyre Guard (New Rens)- The ultimate floor general once again put in a great performance. The way he sees the floor is beyond his years and he’s a top notch competitor. Right now he runs the squad for the 6th and 7th Grade levels. He’s going to be one to watch the next 3 seasons.
Hakeem Hart Jr. Guard (Philly Pride)- The coach’s son brought his game in the finals. He connected on 4 bombs (treys) on his way to dropping 20 points. He plays the game with tremendous heart and desire.
Shamar Florence Forward (MJ Mavericks)- The kid seems to get better each time he steps on the floor. His youth is evident with his lack of control of his body which also makes him a dangerous prospect down the road.

Jay Heath Guard (Team Takeover)- Heath carried most of the luggage for TT. He averaged 17 points a game including 19 markers outing against the Gauchos. He looked like a running back charging downhill when he pushing the pill in transition.
Justice Ellison Guard (Team Takeover)- This point with flair is always exciting the watch. His best game came against NY squad Gauchos. The southpaw finished with 16 points in their blowout victory. He's worth the price of admissions
Jahmir Young Guard (ETU Select)- Another southpaw guard that gets where he wants on the floor. His team lost in the quarterfinals to Team Nelson but he finished with a game high 16 points.
Tyrese Jenkins Forward (ET Select)- Jenkins got ETU off to a good start with a 18 point performance against MJ Mavs. His face up game continues to improve but his versatility is what makes him a problem on this level.

Basketbull Next Up Challenge Coming To NY


On March 9th Basketbull will be coming to New York City for their Next Up Challenge. The Next-Up Challenge is the perfect end of the year tournament for middle school and travel teams. Also, open as a kick off for AAU teams who are just forming or organized year-round. Held in brand new 4 court facility in, House of Sport, NY. The event is for 4th-8th grade teams and will feature some of the top middle school programs in the Northeast. 

Event: Basketbull Next Up Challenge 
Date: March 9th and 10th 
Place: House of Sports (Westchester, NY)  
Click Here To Register

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Clash For The Cup Highlights Feat: Mark Bradshaw (Team Nelson)

 

Mark Bradshaw brought his game to the Clash For The Cup and helped his team make the final four. Check out his highlights from this exclusive event. Stay tuned as we have more coverage coming.

Clash For The Cup 6th Grade Top Performers: Part 2

Tay "One Man Gang" Allen (6th Man Warriors)  

Here's our second report of some of the top 6th Graders from the Clash. 

Clash For The Cup 6th Grade Top Performers Part 2 

Tay Allen Guard (6th Man Warriors)- I must admit I didn’t know what 6th Man Warriors had to offer but Allen made my eyes open. The strong guard simply destroyed any defender they put in front of him. He scored inside, outside and even beyond arc. He helped his boys send home PV king pin Team Takeover. Introducing Tay “OMG” Allen, no not Oh My God but instead “One Man Gang”. 
 
Jaymir Garnett Forward (6th Man Warriors)- Garnett controlled the inside and scored big against CIA Bounce (Black). He also can step out and knock down the long range jumper. He was also a big contributor in 6th Man’s success. We look forward to seeing him in AC.
Mark Bradshaw Guard (Team Nelson)- Last season’s Most Outstanding was playing in midseason form against New Heights. The lefty posted 27 points in the pool play victory. That game reminded many of the numbers he posted last year. He’s an absolute scoring machine.
Mikeal Jones Forward (Team Nelson)- Once again Jones proved to be one of the best prospects in the building. I also like how he’s allowed to play the perimeter more this season. His play helped Team Nelson advance to the final four. His best game was a 20 point performance against eventual champion CIA Bounce.
Jordan McKoy Guard (Team IZOD)- The silky smooth wing guard has settled into his scoring roll on this squad. He scored 16 big points to help Team IZOD get past the 6th Man Warriors in overtime. I believe when the smoke clears he will be one of the best prospects in this class.
Jagger Zrada Guard (Team IZOD)- Jagger has really stepped his game up. Not only does he show that wet jumper but he also has increased his speed and willingness to attack the rim. He pumped in 18 points against 6th Man Warriors after scoring 16 against CIA Bounce (Black).

Clash For The Cup 6th Grade Top Performers: Part 1

Tah-Jai Walters  (CIA Bounce)

The 6th Grade Division gave us a look into the future of Basketball Spotlight. Here's part 1 of our 6th Grade Top Performers 

Clash For The Cup 6th Grade Top Performers Part 1 

Tah –Jai Walters Guard (CIA Bounce)- The fearless guard led the Canadian team to the championship. He brings supreme toughness while controlling the tempo and knocking down shots. Walters was a big time player this weekend. His best game was a 24 point performance including 3 treys against New Heights. 
 
Joel Brown Guard (CIA Bounce)- Brown was a monster against Team Nelson in pool play when he dropped 26 points. He also had a big game against New Heights before helping his boys bring home the crown. He helps Walters form the ultimate backcourt.
Josh Pierre Louis Guard (Metro Flyers)- Pierre Louis is having one heck of season so far. The point guard was outstanding in the Clash. He was creating plays for teammates and nailing tough shots. He’s also one of the best on ball defenders on the grade level. He has put himself in Player Of The Year conversation.
Danny Rodriquez Forward (Metro Flyers)- Rodriquez played big during the playoffs which helped MF make it to the finals. He camped out under the basket and banked home shots off the glass. He has a long way to go in terms of developing but you can’t teach his size.
Charles Brown Forward (Metro Flyers)- The lefty is an energy player that does a good job of rebounding, playing defense and keeping the rock alive. He was a major factor from the foul line area and inside the paint. Every teams needs a glue guy like this.

Clash For The Cup 7th Grade Top Performers: Part 2

Terrence Trice Jr. (Riverside Hawks)  

The 7th Grade Division had some other players that made huge impacts over the weekend. Here’s another look at some of the top performers from this past weekend. 

Clash For The Cup 7th Grade Top Performers Part 2 

TJ Trice Guard (Riverside Hawks)- The Hawks needed some ammo coming into the season and Trice seems to have added the missing piece. He lit up Team Final for 25 points in their first win and finished the tournament averaging close to 20 points an outing.
 
Myles Dread Forward (Metro Sixers)- Dread didn’t disappoint in his second Spotlight tournament. He averaged 15 points a game and made a living at the free through line. His aggressive style forces the defense to react. He doesn’t mind sacrificing his body for the success of the unit.
Devandre Edmonds Forward (Mass Shooting Stars)- Edmonds returned to form during their game against Team Final. He was a menace on the glass and finished with 16 markers. When he plays with this type of aggression his squad is usually successful. 

Dallas Watson Guard (Milbank)- “The Bank” made a surprised run to the final four and Watson was the lead catalyst. The point guard has a lot of bounce to his game and used a mean ratchet to hurt the defense. In their quarterfinal game versus Riverside Watson lit up the Hawks for 24 points including 5 treys. This kid definitely brought his a game this weekend.
 
Paul Durkee Forward (Mass Shooting Stars)- Durkee also had a huge game against Team Final. He’s a mid range killer that’s goes harder when his confidence is flowing. I like his upside especially since I see how tall his father is. 

Justin Moore Guard (Metro Sixers)- Moore is one of the best guards on this grade level. He was a beast versus New Heights with 22 points and dropped another 23 against ECE. If you need a smooth and confident guard to run your team, Moore is the kid to hire. 
 
Cameron Reddish Guard (Team Final)- I’m usually good at spotting talent and I think this kid is one to watch. He has a great feel for the game and has a lot of growing to do in terms of size. He led the team in scoring once again and I can’t wait to see this finished product years from now. 

Jaquan Hooks Guard (6th Man Warriors)- The punishing guard maneuvered his way into the lane at will. He did everything including hitting a halftime buzzer beater in their two point loss to eventual champion CIA Bounce. 

Devonte Hill Guard (6th Man Warriors)- Hill also hit the scoring column hard for 6th Man especially from the free throw line. He connected on 11 foul shots during their classic battle with the Canadian squad.

Wednesday, February 6, 2013

AC Showcase Getting Early Attention



The Atlantic City Showcase is scheduled for March 29th thru 31st and teams are already committing to America’s Playground. Make sure you register early especially hotel rooms. DEADLINE TO FULLY REGISTER YOUR TEAM IS MARCH 10TH (NO EXCEPTIONS)

8th Grade Teams 
1. Nation Basketball Academy 
2. Team IZOD 
3. 6th Man Warriors 
4. MCB Elite  
5. Blue Star Maryland 
6. PYO
7. Team Nelson
8. C.U.E. Sports
9. Team Flight
10. New York Lightning
11. ESYC
12. Black Mambas
13. CBC
14. Primetime Ballers
15. KSK
16.Team Swerve
17. Riverside Hawks
18. Gosh Warriors
19. East Coast Elite (CT)
20. MC Elite
21. Middletowns Finest
22. Milbank
23. Expressions
24. JSL Hoops
25. Baltimore Elite
26.South Jersey Jazz
27. Playtime
28.

7th Grade Teams 
1. DC Assault 
2. Team IZOD 
3. We All Can Go All Stars
4. 6th Man Warriors
5. CBC
6. NWK
7. New Rens 
8. ECE
9. Team Final
10. Metro Sixers
11. Mass Shooting Stars
12. Wall 2 Wall
13. NC Runnin Rebels
14. Playtime Panthers
15. Slam and Jam Hoyas
16. Diamonds In A Rough
17. Team CMEK 
18. New York Lightning (Black)
19. Primetime Ballers 
20. Expressions 
21. Advanced Hoops
22. New York Lightning (Gold)
23. Philly Pride
24. New Heights
25. NJ Shore Shots
26. Team 85
27. Milbank
28 Maryland Hawks 
29. Team Rebels
30. Delaware Finest 
31. ESYC
32.  Maryland Spartans 
Closed
 

6th Grade Teams 
1. Team Nelson 
2. Team IZOD 
3. Team Final 
4. Gauchos 
5. 6th Man Warriors 
6. ETU Select 
7. DC Assault 
8. NWK
9. RJS
10. Metro Flyers
11. Diamonds In A Rough
12. Wall 2 Wall
13. Team Philly
14. Playaz
15. House Of Sports Elite
16. Mass Premier 
17. Philly Pride
18. KSK
19.Maryland Finest
20.Team Takeover 
21. Team BallHoggs 
22. Team 85
23. Pleasantville Young Runners
24.


5th Grade Teams 
1. Nation Basketball Academy 
2. NJ Shore Shots 
3. Leesburg Basketball Club
4. DC Assault
5. NWK
6. RIP City
7. Team Takeover (Gorham)
8. Team Glory 
9. We Can Go All Stars
10. Metro Sixers
11.New York Lightining
12. EYSC
13. Team Takeover (Orange)
14. Team Demi
15. Team Phenom
16. KSK
17. Gauchos
18. Team 85
19. House Of Sports Elite
20. Milbank 
Closed


4th Grade 
1. Bottom Ballers
2. House Of Sports
3. Gauchos
4. Team Glory
5. We All Can Go All Stars
6. New York Lightning
7. New York Lightning
8. Team Rebels
9. Team Glory
10. Bayshore Bulldogs

 

Clash For The Cup 7th Grade Top Performers: Part 1

Danilo Djuricic (CIA Bounce)  

The 7th Grade Division was explosive with high intensity games. Here’s our first look at the Top Performers from this class. 

Clash For The Cup 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1 

Danilo Djuricic Forward (CIA Bounce)- It wasn’t just the hair that reminded many Joakim Noah but Danilo has the game to go with it. He’s a fixture around the basket in terms of rebounding and scoring. His touch ranges out and he can out the pill on the deck consistently. His nose for the ball makes him an impact player all game.
 
Simisola Shittu Guard (CIA Bounce)- After a rough Tip Off Classic appearance Shittu played like the player I saw at last summer’s 6th Grade AAU Nationals. He used his long wing span to dominate at times. He scored in the half court set and in transition. The problem is most players his size can’t guard him on the perimeter. I was thoroughly impressed with him. 

John Akende Guard (CIA Bounce)- Akende is a combo guard that exhibits the ability to score at the rim while also getting others involved. Right now he’s just too physical for opponents on this level. The scary part is he’s also a lock down defender. If we gave out a MVP Akende would have taken home the honors. 

Jonathan Kabongo Guard (CIA Bounce)- The younger brother of the University of Texas guard brings the same energy and style of play. He has a good penetration style but doesn’t force shots. He tends to let the game develop which is a good trait to have as a youngster.
Keshaun Saunders Guard (CIA Bounce)- If you are a basketball purest you have to love Saunders’s game. The tall point guard gets anywhere he wants on the floor while keeping all those offensive weapons happy. I think this kid potential is through the roof. 

Walter Tally Forward (Gauchos)- The kid from Alaska is a throwback post player, meaning he doesn’t like to roam the perimeter but instead stays on the blocks. He has some offensive moves but this area is still a work in progress. Defensively, he alters or blocks everything and enjoys hitting the boards. 

Jordan McCallister Guard (Gauchos)- The smooth wing guard brings the total package including a handle, size, range and creativity. He commands the perimeter like a miniature Kevin Durant. He’s one of the smoothest I’ve seen from NY in a while. 

Jalen Lecque Guard (Gauchos)- The point guard had a terrific weekend before going down with a knee injury. His toughness fits in with the Gauchos style and he quarterbacked them through some tough competition. He seems to have landed in a nice place.

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Clash For The Cup 8th Grade Top Performers: Part 3

Anthony McNish (CIA Bounce)  

Here’s our final look at the Top Performers from the 8th Grade Division of the Clash For The Cup. 

Clash For The Cup Top Performers Part 3 

Anthony McNish Forward (CIA Bounce)- McNish returned determined to help his squad advance to the playoffs and he delivered a final four appearance. The athletic forward showed dominate traits especially with his 30 point performance versus New Heights in the quarterfinals. This kid plays like a beast at times. 
 
Quade Green Guard (Team Final)- His team didn’t have a good showing but Green put in some work versus MiIbank. The combo guard finished with 21 point and showed an improved outside shot by drain three treys. 

Shae Linton Guard (CIA Bounce)- Linton proved to be an outside marksman for the Canada squad. He hit several treys during the tournament including four during their semifinal loss to the Playaz.
Paul Person Guard (Milbank)- Person was back with “The Bank” and had some good moments. He had a good game in their win against Team Final but really brought his game in their quarterfinal loss to Team IZOD. The feisty guard finished with 23 points. 

Keith Williams Guard (New Heights)- Williams had a solid weekend for New Heights against the heavy competition. He averaged double figures and helped them advance to the quarterfinals. 
 
Evan Logino Forward (Team Final)- Logino brought his lunch pail to work once again. He banged against some of the best interior players in the region and was able to do more than hold his own. His best game was a 20 point performance against CIA Bounce. 

Deon Savage Jr. Forward (6th Man Warriors)- Savage has one of the best upsides of anyone in this event. The lanky southpaw uses his turn around floater to score inside and establishes position despite being very slender. Down the road he will be a name to know. 

Kieron Williams Guard (6th Man Warriors)- Williams was another bright spot for 6th Man. He pushes the rock like a blur. He has point guard size but a scorer’s mentality. I like the energy he brought Sunday even though it was a consolation game.

Clash For The Cup 8th Grade Top Performers: Part 2

Azar Swain (CBC)  

The 8th Grade Division has some other standout players that weren’t fortunate enough to make it to the finals. Here’s a look at the other players that stood out. 

Clash For The Cup 8th Grade Top Performers Part 2 

Azar Swain Guard (CBC)- Swain kept his hot play going. No longer does he just rely on his jumper now gets to the tin and scores in traffic. He’s also becoming more confident as a play maker and displaying some point guard skills. Don’t be surprised when it’s all said and done that he might emerge as one of the best guards in this program. 
 
Aaron Clarke Guard (CBC)- Clarke had a good weekend and he was sizzling against The Connection. In his first game he went crazy from deep while going for 23 first half points. When he’s hitting like this he opens up the entire offense for the Connecticut team. 

Jaecee Martin Guard (CBC)- The word is out therefore defenses are being designed to slow down Mayweather. This weekend he fought hard to carve his way through and almost led the team to a comeback victory over DC Assault. This kid never quits until the final buzzer.
Jermaine Samuels Forward (CBC)- Samuels arrived Saturday night but still had an impact on the game. He continues to be a serious matchup problem for defenders. When you combine his skills with his high motor you have a top notch prospect down the road. 

Nate Pierre Louis Guard (Expressions)- The scoring machine lived up to his expectations by dropping 31 points on The Connection, 33 markers on CBC and 22 points against the Playaz all in one day. The kid scores like we breathe. It seems to easy at times.
Khalif Crawford Guard (Team IZOD)- Crawford used his size to shoot and score over opponents. His buzzer beater against New Heights gave his squad the 1st place seed going into the playoffs. His confidence seems to be growing each time out. 

Trevon Duval Guard (Team IZOD)- Duval made his first Spotlight appearance with Team IZOD. He showed some flashes he still seems to be trying to get comfortable with their sets and defensive assignments. Once he gets it all together he should be good. 
 
Patrick Stryzala Forward (Team IZOD)- During the final four matchup with DC Assault Patrick continued to hit big shots to keep things close. He drained a couple of treys and a mid range step back jumper. Previously known as a post threat Stryzala has progressed greatly on the perimeter.  

Shyheim Hicks Guard (Expressions)- Pierre Louis got some help in the scoring column from Hicks. The slender guard looks his best when attacking in transition or from the wing. His outside shot has improved which makes him more difficult to guard.

Clash For The Cup 8th Grade Top Performers: Part 1

Jamir Harris (PBC)  

The 8th Grade Division has some epic battles including the finals. Now here’s a look at some of the top performers from the Clash For The Cup. 

Clash For The Cup 8th Grade Top Performers Part 1 

Jamir Harris Guard (Playaz)- This weekend Harris separated himself from the rest of the pack. The strong combo guard lit up the competition, helped grind out wins and led the Playaz to their first Spotlight championship. Here’s clearly the frontrunner for Player Of The Year Honors.
 
Marcus McClary Guard (Playaz)- The lefty has good versatility and the addition of Patterson allows him to roam the perimeter a little more. I like his slashing game and ability to score in traffic. He seems to never rush and allows the game to come. 

Tristan Patterson Forward (Playaz)- Patterson looks comfortable with his new squad. His game expands to the perimeter but he knows that his bread butter his working the baseline and in the paint. He brings a Kenyon Martin type play and energy to this squad. The other players feed off his intensity.  

RJ Cole Guard (Playaz)- In the finals Cole displayed that veteran clutch play he developed with F.A.C.E.S.. In the closing minutes he drained two big trey balls that helped his squad stay close in the see-saw battle. His championship game experience was on full display.
 
Leondre Washington Guard (Playaz)- Washington deserves a lot of credit by running this team and making sure everyone’s happy. He dictates the pace, drains the open shot and plays well on the defensive end. He has settled into a crafty point guard.
Jamir Moultrie Guard (DC Assault)- Not many guards puts pressure on the defense like Moultrie. He’s always in attack mode and when he’s not finishing at the tin he’s knocking down a deep jumper. He must develop a pull up to avoid be called for charging fouls.
Chris Lykes Guard (DC Assault)- Many fell in love with Lyke this weekend because the lightning quick guard displayed that toughness that can’t be taught. He drove the teeth of the defense and wasn’t afraid to leap into the chest of the shot blockers. He understands the use of the floater and goes to it when needed. 

Chy'ree Walker Forward (DC Assault)- If you’re not careful Walker will bang one on your head. This kid is a quick leaper and jumps out the gym. I like how he plays the passing lanes on defense and explodes in transition.
 
Luther Anderson Guard (DC Assault)- Anderson is instant offense off the bench. He specializes in using the rim as shield to shot blockers while scooping a right hand lay up on the left side. His scores in bunches and his drives kept this close for DCA. 

Douglas Cooper Guard (DC Assault)- Cooper is another Assault guard with good perimeter skills including a mean ratchet. He has some wiggle in his game which allows him to get into the lane whenever he wants.

Grand Finale Point System Update


The Road To The Grand Finale made the third stop at the Clash For The Cup. Champions were crowned and teams have collected their first set of points. Remember the top four teams according to points will meet at the Grand Finale Final Four to play for the Spotlight Banner. The next stop is the Atlantic City Showcase March 29th Thru 31st. 

8th Grade 
Playaz - 8 Points 
CBC- 7 Points 
Black Mambas - 6 Points
DC Assault - 6 Points 
CIA Bounce -5 Points 
New Heights -5 Points
PYO -5 Points 
Team Nelson - 5 Points

7th Grade 
Playtime – 8 Points
CIA Bounce – 8 Points
Wall 2 Wall – 7 Points 
NWK – 7 Points 
Team IZOD -5 Points 
Metro Sixers – 5 Points 

6th Grade 
Metro Flyers – 8 Points 
Team IZOD – 7 Points 

Team Nelson – 7 Points 
Philly Pride- 7 Points 
MJ Mavs – 5 Points 
CIA Bounce- 5 Points 

5th Grade 
CJ Hawks – 8 Points 
Team Glory – 8 Points 
Team Phenom – 6 Points 
Gauchos – 5 Points 
NWK – 3 Points 
Team DEMI - 3 Points