Exclusive: Delaware Hawks Director Speaks Out

A few months back we wrote in our Word On The Street column about the Delaware Hawks program. Some people reading the article could have taken it as the total program was gone. That was far from the truth and we sincerely apologize for our wording at that time.

Speaking of the Delaware Hawks I got a chance to talk to the Team Director Bashir Bradley and he gave me the real insight while setting the record straight about their program. Here’s the exclusive interview:

BS: Please explain the situation that transpired with that former Delaware Hawk team that finished ranked in the country.

BB: Well Mike It was a situation where the parents and some of the coaching staff felt their kids weren’t getting treated fair by the then head coach. Thus they decided that they wanted to find a better situation for their kids and also felt they could build a powerhouse squad for the upcoming season.

BS: What was your initial reaction?

BB: Well my reaction was that anytime someone feels they’re not getting what they need with us and make up their mind to leave I wish them the best and hope everything works out. I’m truly not concerned with having a superstar team or all those other accolades. I want to teach some kids how to play and turn them into good young men for society.

BS: How did this affect your program?

BB: The only real affect it had on the program is that we have to add more players to that 13U team and that situation gave people a misconception about our program. We are still here and good as ever.

BS: Speaking of that what’s the current status of your program.

BB: Like I said we are alive and well but since I coach high school basketball I haven’t been able to get things rolling yet. In the past we would have started by now and even played in a few tournaments already.

BS: So what does the future hold for the Delaware Hawks?

BB: The program future is being a positive force in the community. We still have a few teams that can compete on the national level (14U and 15U). So I feel that we have a bright future for our program.

BS: What have you learned from this situation?

BB: The biggest thing I can take from this situation is that I must pay closer attention to what’s going on with my teams and address minor issues early on.

BS: Bashir Thanks for setting the record straight.

BB: Anytime Mike

Basketball Spotlight Clash For The Cup

The Basketball Spotlight Clash For The Cup is finally a finished product. After long hours of reaching out and negotiating with teams we have come up with the list of programs that will participate in this event. We will have an 11U and 12U bracket and here are the 4 teams that will be representing each age group. Please note that we made efforts to contact ALL the top teams in the region before compiling this list. We like to thank the teams that committed to this event. The Clash For The Cup will take place on February 7th at Trenton Catholic High School.

12 and Under Teams
1. Harvest Knights
2. F.A.C.E.S.
3. The City
4. Team M.V.P.

11 and Under Teams
1. Team Battle
2. Gauchos
3. F.A.C.E.S.
4. Team Ron Artest

This is a single game elimination event but teams that entered will play a semifinal game then will advance to the finals or play in a consolation. I think this will turn out to be a good event and Basketball Spotlight will be giving you blow by blow.

Basketball Spotlight College Report Ready

Attention College Coaches the Basketball Spotlight Early Jump Report Fall/Winter is complete and ready for send off. The Basketball Spotlight Early Jump Report will feature an analysis and breakdown of the Top 8th Graders (Class 2013) in the region. Including in- depth strengths and areas of improvement. This report will not be viewed by the public and is strictly for college recruiting purposes. The Fall/Winter Reports taking from the following events.

• Gym Rat Midnight Madness
• Hoop Group Jr. Elite Regional Camp
• NJ Adidas Jr. Phenom Camp
• Funsport Jr. Pros
• Basketball Spotlight Elite 80 Expo,
• Basketball Spotlight Grand Finale 08

Report to include: Player; Name, Position, HT, AAU Team, Hometown, Strengths, Areas of Improvement, and Projected Level of Play in College.

Any College Coaches interested in receiving the Early Jump Report Contact Mike Melton at basketballspotlight@hotmail.com or 609-532-5122.

Basketball Spotlight Atlantic City Showcase Tournament

The Basketball Spotlight Atlantic City Showcase Tournament has received early interest and seems to shaping up to a good event. This tournament will be held in Atlantic City March 21st and 22nd. Here’s a look at some of the committed teams. If you are interested in attending this event please request an application from Mike Melton at basketballspotlight@hotmail.com or by phone at 609-532-5122. There’s 12 spots for each age group. Deadline is March 1st or when event sells out.

14U Teams
1. Team Nelson
2. Delaware Hawks
3. Team Underrated
4. Peacemakers
5. Linden Ballers
6. Mid Jersey Heat
7. Garden State Knights
8. Team Artest
9.
10.
11.
12.

13U Teams
1. Team NJ ABC
2. Team Rebels
3. Team Nelson
4. Team MVP
5. Gauchos
6. Team Underrated
7. Team Crossover Elite
8. Mid Jersey Heat
9. Team Artest
10. Youth Interlock
11.
12.

12U Teams
1. Team Rebels
2. F.A.C.E.S.
3. Team Final
4. The City
5. Team MVP
6. Team Underrated
7. Team Crossover Elite
8. All Mighty Force Warriors
9. Linden Ballers
10. Mid Jersey Heat
11. Team Artest
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.

11U Teams
1. Team Battle
2. F.A.C.E.S.
3. Team Underrated
4. Team Artest
5. Mid Jersey Heat
6. Team NJ ABC
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.

10U Teams
1. Team NJ ABC
2. South Jersey Blitz
3. Team Underrated Black
4. Team Underrated White
5.
6.
7.
8.

Elite 80 Expo Video Highlights: Championship Game

The best game of the Elite 80 Expo was definitely the last one. The Championship Game featured Team Duke vs. Team Arizona. It was a very intense battle and you can see the emotion throughout the contest. The game came down to the wire and there was a thrilling finish. We don’t want to give it away so take a look yourself.

Team Duke vs. Team Arizona Highlights

Elite 80 Expo Profile: Jordan Washington

Name: Jordan Washington

Position: Power Forward

HT: 6’5

Hometown: Queens, NY

AAU Team: NY Panthers

Strengths: Washington is as dominant as they come on this level. Inside he’s a relentless worker that hits the glass and scores anytime he establishes position. He’s quick for his size on the baseline and has the touch to make difficult shots. Finally Jordan has the ability to push the rock end to end for a sure bucket. On defense he’s a shot blocking force inside and clogs up the lane with his presence. He also will go on the perimeter and attempt to guard a wing forward.

Areas of Improvement: If Jordan has peaked in terms of growing than he must began to develop his perimeter game because on the next level he will be pushed to the perimeter. So ball handling, outside shooting and agility should be his focus.

Elite 80 Expo Profile: Britton Lee

Name: Britton Lee

Position: Point Guard

HT: 6’1

Hometown: Philadelphia, PA

AAU Team: Peacemakers

Strengths: Britton is a very strong and athletic guard that explodes to the basket and plays with a high motor. In transition his speed and power makes him virtually unstoppable on the move. He also gets into the lane and will hit a nice pull up. On defense he’s a true ball hound that moves his feet well and bullies smaller ball handlers. He always around the rock and has a good presence on the floor.

Areas of Improvement: Britton needs to put in a lot of work on his outside shot and his decision making with the rock. He shot needs form work and when he’s handling the pill sometimes he gets out of control or gets caught in the air trying to make a decision. Word is he headed to Roman Catholic so these small adjustments should be taken care of.

Elite 80 Expo Profile: Darrian Collins

Name: Darrian Collins

Position: Point Guard

HT: 5’8

Hometown: South River, NJ

AAU Team: JS Fliers

Strengths: Collins is a smart player that knows his limits and how not to dribble into the trouble. He has been known as a good outside shooter and does have enough ball handling skills to play the point. His game experience is something also on his side.

Areas of Improvement: Collins is a point guard size thus he must get most reps at the PG spot. Once he enters high school he will have to become a true floor general. He also must hit the weight and pick up some mass to be effective on both ends of the floor. He has the mindset to make the transition his upside depends on his future physical attributes.

Elite 80 Expo Profile: Jaren Sina

Name: Jaren Sina

Position: Point Guard

HT: 6’0

Hometown: Lake Hopatcong, NJ

AAU Team: Hoop Heaven AAU

Strengths: Jaren is one of the top point guards in the country. He runs a team like a quarterback and has top notch court vision. He pushes the rock with his head and knows how to make plays. Unlike some point guards Sina also has a fluid outside stroke. When he gets hot his range extends from anywhere in the gym. He should have a few more inches to grow and if so look out.

Areas of Improvement: Like most grammar school plays Sina will have to get stronger once he hits high school. He also tends to fall in love with his jump shot and should look to mix it up a little especially in transition. On the defensive end his improved strength will help him guard his position better.

Florida Youngster Hits National Television

Garrett Anderson an 11 year-old youngster from Florida just appeared on the Rachel Ray Show. He plays for Florida Prospect from Orlando, Florida. He is a very talented guard that has aspirations of playing on a higher level with the Florida Rams. But right now take the time to watch his video on National Television.

Rachel Ray Episode

Basketball Spotlight Hits The Airwaves Tonight!

Tonight Basketball Spotlight will be hitting the airwaves on KO Basketball Radio show. The show will focus on KO Basketball, its upcoming events and youth basketball throughout the country. KO Basketball is the new upcoming brand that promotes one of one basketball with the professional boxing format. Check out the radio show at the link below. Showtime is 7:00 PM tonight.

KO Basketball Radio Show

Basketball Spotlight Heads To 8 Is Enough Saturday

This Saturday Basketball Spotlight will head up to Paterson, NJ (JFK High School) for the opening night of the Playaz Club 8 Is Enough Winter League. The league features 8 14U teams from the Northeast and should be a treat. Here’s a schedule for the opening night.

Saturday January 10th

6:30 PM. Vernon Jr. Knights vs. New Heights

6:30 PM Metro Hawks vs. NY Panthers

7:30 PM NJ Select Stars vs. St. Michaels

7:30 PM PPY Elite Pirates vs. Playaz Basketball Club

Breakdown and Analysis of the games will be posted Sunday.

Middle School Coverage: Ocean Defeats Asbury Park

Nick Price Was The Leading Scorer In The Game!

Ocean Intermediate Downs Asbury Park Middle School

Nick Price scored 12 points while Eric Musto finished 11 markers and 7 block shots as Ocean Intermediate defeated Asbury Park Middle School 36-22. Jaquele Goodman scored 8 points for Asbury in the loss.
Top Performers

Nick Price Forward (Ocean)- Price benefitted from Musto’s passing as he used his strong build to get buckets inside. He also was a force on the glass at both ends of the floor. He takes mostly high percentage shots and usually cashes in.

Tarin Smith Guard (Ocean)- Smith was flawless running the point in the first half. His ball handling and court vision helped his squad get an early lead. In the second stanza he ran into a little trouble with Asbury’s pressure. Being the only true ball handler caused him to try and dribble out of double teams which lead to a few turnovers. He’s still one of the top 7th Grade guards in the state.

Eric Musto Forward (Ocean)- The 8th Grader is 6’4 now and his game has improved tremendously. Offensively he finishes with either hand and knows what to do once he gets the rock. I also was impressed with his passing ability when feeding the post. He hit teammates cutting right on stride. On defense he rejected numerous shots and even got called for goaltending on a play when he pinned a shot against the glass.

Jaquele Goodman Guard (Asbury Park)- Goodman’s defense and hustle plays helped AP make a late run. His strength and ball pressure caused turnovers that led to easy buckets. On offense he drives hard to the basket but most develop his left hand to be effective on the high school level.

Daquan Bland Guard (Asbury Park)- His team came out on the losing end but Bland caught my eye. The 7th Grade has the game and swagger should take him far on the hardwood. He penetrated Ocean’s defense but his passes seem to be too advanced for his teammates to gather. I also like his willingness to go into the lane and attempt to finish plays himself.

Clash For The Cup Annoucement!

We have good news and bad news. Bad News first, we at Basketball Spotlight felt that the current format of the Clash For The Cup would have caused too many problems for coaches and programs. We felt the AAU culture is too sensitive at the selected ages to handle All Star Game Selections for individual players. I understand how hard it is to coach and maintain a program and we don’t want to bring more issues to your situations.

Now for the Good News, There will be a Clash For The Cup February 7th at Trenton Catholic but we changed the format. Our committee will select the top 4 teams in the region for the ages of 11U, 12U and 13U. Those teams will hit the hardwood for a one-day single elimination tournament. The winners of each age group will be presented with the Cup. We know there’s a lot of talk about teams running, ducking and other chatter. We decided to let you guys get it done on the floor. The cost for this event is $175.00 at team for ref fees, insurance and building cost.

Teams will be announced Friday. Any teams refusing invite WE Understand! LOL

It’s Time To Get It On! There's No Excuse, No Other Tourney's On This Date. Maryland Inviational is President's Weekend.

Championship Games Will Have Video Coverage!

Advertise Your Event With Basketball Spotlight

Basketball Spotlight has now entered the world of advertisement. If you have a product to get out to the young basketball community we can be your ticket. Advertising with Basketball Spotlight will allow you to have your company logo on our website on a daily. Clicking on your logo will take consumers straight to your website. There’s no better way to get the word out to potentials consumers than through us.

If you are a:

• Basketball Facility
• Basketball Trainer
• AAU Coach
• Tournament Director
• High School Coach
• College Coach
• Personal Instructor
• Or Anybody Interested in Improving Their Business

Contact Mike Melton basketballspotlight@hotmail.com or at 609-532-5122. for advertisement rates.

Basketball Spotlight Presents: Atlantic City Showcase Tournament

Basketball Spotlight will hit Atlantic City for the inaugural Atlantic City Showcase Tournament. This tourney should bring together the top AAU Clubs on the East Coast. The event will be held at Atlantic City High School and other schools in area. There’s limited space for this event and the winner of each age bracket will get a price discount to the MDC.

Event: Atlantic City Showcase Tourney

Where: Atlantic City, NJ

When: March 21st and 22nd

Price: $350 Per Team ($325 Mulitple Teams)

Ages: 10U Thru 14U

Registration Deadline: March 1st or Sold Out!

No Refunds After Registration.

For Application Contact Mike Melton at BasketballSpotlight@hotmail.com or at 609-532-5122.

Grand Finale 08 Video Highlights: 12U Chamionship (Playtime Basketball vs. Gauchos)

The 12U Final had serious guard play as the Playtime Basketball and the NYC Gauchos faced off. Playtime took an early lead behind the shooting of Corey Brown and others. The Gauchos made a late run but Playtime guard play was too much as the North Jersey crew held on 65-55. Both teams displayed big time outside shooting in this one. Check it out.

Playtime Basketball vs. NYC Gauchos Highlights

Grand Finale 08 Video Highlights: 14U Chamionship (Team Nelson vs. NY Panthers)

The 14U Final was a thriller. Team Nelson formerly Educated Athletes was looking for some revenge after the NY Panthers gave them an early exit from the Basketball Spotlight MDC and ended their quest for a 3 peat. Team Nelson started out with a big lead than grew too relaxed which allowed the NY Panthers to storm back into the game. In the closing seconds Team Nelson made some clutch plays and played excellent defense to get the 59-56 victory.

Team Nelson vs. NY Panthers Highlights

Inside The Grand Finale 08: 13 and Under Division

The 13U Division at the Grand Finale had only 8 teams but it was probably the most competitive top to bottom. We had a 3 way tie breaker and a few surprises. Here’s a look inside this division and who did what.

Team Nelson Still Succeeds

Losing the top player in the region (Sheppard Gardner) might have destroyed some programs but this squad based out of Chester PA pulled it together to take home the gold. The trio of Dion Linton, Kyle Coleman and Mahir Johnson provided enough spark to get them over the top. Coach Malik maintained his tough defensive strategy which helped them prevail. They should be a dangerous team this spring.

Delaware Finest Pulls Off Shocker

Delaware Finest came into the tourney without much hype but managed to finish first in their pool after knocking off MDC Champs Team Underrated. They advanced to the semifinals before getting knocked out by Team Scan from New York. They proved that when you come to a Basketball Spotlight tourney no team is safe.

Noticeable Top Performers
Kyle Coleman (Team Nelson)- Coleman came up big for his team during their semifinal matchup against Team Underrated. The big guard went to work finishing with 15 huge points including two buckets from behind the arc. He’s one of the go to men of this squad.

Dion Linton (Team Nelson)- Linton’s all around style was very important to TN taking home the crown. He played big during pool play and also showed his worth during the playoffs. He’s a tough baseline player that might venture out to the wing in the future.

Naim Thomas (Team Scan)- Viewers need to keep their eyes on this guard. He’s not over flashy but has the substance in his game that gets things done. He ran the show for his team and still found the time to get buckets also. I like his posture and presence on the floor.

Anthony Mosley (Delaware Finest)- The southpaw has some serious scoring talent especially in transition. He gets to the basket with ease and knows how to maneuver his body to get shots off. He’s a serious baller that doesn’t get enough recognition.

Chris Davis (Team Underrated)- Davis seemed to be nursing an injury but that didn’t stop him from coming to life during their semifinal game against Team Nelson. He did a lot of damage off the dribble and finished with 18 points in the loss.

Malik Howard (Team Underrated)- Howard picked up the early slack for his teammate. During their pool play game against JSL Hoops he led all scorers in the game finishing with 20 points.

George Lambert (Linden Ballers)- Lambert can score the pool and he proved it during his pool game against JSL Hoops going for 22 points. The two guard has a nice stroke and also can get buckets from the mid range area.

Grand Finale All Tournament Team
Kyle Coleman (Team Nelson)- Co MVP
Dion Linton (Team Nelson)- Co MVP
Mahir Johnson (Team Nelson)
Tyrell Sturdivant (Team Nelson)
Naim Thomas (Team Scan)
Jalen Henriquez (Team Scan)
Austrian Robinson (Team Scan)
Chris Davis (Team Underrated)
Malik Howard (Team Underrated)
Anthony Mosley (Delaware Finest)
George Lambert (Linden Ballers)
Maurice Diawara (JSL Hoops)

Inside The Grand Finale 08: 12 and Under Division

The 12U Division was very interesting. We saw a surprise team take home the title and an interesting chess match game between coaches. Here’s a look at this bracket and who stood out.

Playtime Wins Chess Match Game 17-14

After defeating the Harvest Knights in their pool contest, Playtime Basketball decided to change their strategy and slow the game down in the semifinals. They held the ball for most of the first half and when Harvest Knights did go ahead they returned the favor holding the rock for most of the second half. As time expired Malik Ellison launched a half court shot that nearly went in. The game went into overtime tied 14-14. In the extra period Playtime employed the same strategy and eventually won 17-14.

Here Comes “The City”

The City made its Basketball Spotlight debut and had a good showing. They won a tough pool defeating Bayshore Bulldogs 49 -40 and Linden Ballers 56-31. In the quarterfinals they ran into a buzz saw of a team named Harvest Knights. But one thing his certain this squad has enough talent to make a deep run during the AAU-season.

Top Noticeable Performances

Malik Ellison (Harvest Knights)- Ellison exploded in the scoring column against the NJ Pirates (21 pts) and in the quarterfinals against The City (24 pts). He played majority of his games on the main court and used this opportunity to show the spectators how he gets buckets.

Lamar Jones (Harvest Knights)- Another scoring guard for this group was Jones. This was my first time watching him rock and was very impressed with his presence and ability to make plays. He can shoot the jumper and create offensive opportunities off the bounce.


Jack Laffy (Bayshore Bulldogs)- Laffy battled all weekend leading his team in scoring. He caught fire against The City during their pool game and ended the contest with 20 markers. He’s a very skilled post player with very soft touch around the cup.

Isiah Still (Linden)- Linden made it to the quarterfinals and a lot that success can from the play of still. He had 18 points in the narrow victory over Bayshore and finished he tourney averaging 15 points a game. He has some serious talent from the wing position.

Trey Lowe (F.A.C.E.S.)- Lowe made the most of his debut with his new team. The former Team MVP guard led the team in scoring and caught fire from behind the arc nailing 3 treys against Team Underrated in their pool matchup. He looks like a good fit with this group.

Tymere Berry (Mid Jersey Heat)- Berry has been with the Heat for a while and also seems to raise his level of play. In the quarterfinals against the Gauchos Berry went berserk dropping 18 points including 3 long range treys. His play helped the Heat reach the quarterfinal round.

Jaquan McKennon (Gauchos)- The lefty had 16 huge points against the Philly Aztecs. He’s extremely difficult to guard off the dribble and can pull from anywhere in the gym. His confidence on this level is something very rare. He has a unique feel for the game.

Grand Finale All Tournament Team
Corey Brown (Playtime Basketball)- MVP
Deshawn Washington (Playtime Basketball)
Ray Kim (Playtime Basketball)
Phillip Hammond (Playtime Basketball)
Kaseen Coston (Playtime Basketball)
Kai Mitchell (Gauchos)
Jaqaun McKennon (Gauchos)
Davonte Green (Gauhos)
Calvin Riley (Gauchos)
Malik Ellison (Harvest Knights)
Lamar Jones (Harvest Knights)
Trevaughn Wilkerson (Harvest Knights)
Trey Lowe (F.A.C.E.S.)
Brian Brown (F.A.C.E.S)
Mike Jolaoso (F.A.C.E.S.)
Donovan Mitchell (The City)
Eric Paschall (The City)
Lenny Kadisha (The City)
Jack Laffy (Bayshore)
Isiah Still (Linden Ballers)
Tymere Berry (Mid Jersey Heat)
Christian Vital (Team Underrated)

Inside The Grand Finale 08: 11 and Under Division

The 11U Division brought a lot of excitement. We had a buzzer beater, some new impressive teams and some impressive performances. Here’s a good look into the Baby Ballers bracket of the Grand Finale.

Gauchos New #1 Team?

At the end of the summer we had Team Battle listed as the #1 10U Team in the region. This season the Gauchos seem to be making a run at that crown. The Bronx boys already had an influx of guards including Jared Rivers, George Pena and Brandon Randolph. Now you throw in high scoring guard Shamorie Pond and they should be tough to beat. They defeated PTS Pistons twice, Bay State Magic and F.A.C.E.S. on their way to the crown. Expect a serious matchup with them and Team Battle soon.

Welcome To Basketball Spotlight

A few fresh faces made their Basketball Spotlight debut and I would like to write about their accomplishments. Here’s a look at the PTS Pistons and Team Ron Artest.

PTS Pistons came up from Maryland and represented the PV area to the fullest. In the quarterfinals they knocked off New Jersey powerhouse Team Battle on a last second buzzer beater by Vincent Walker. They eventually fell to Gauchos in the semifinal. Their trio of Alex Leder, Keith Simms and Vincent Walker has to be one of the best on the East Coast.

Team Ron Artest brought a lot of spunk from Queensbridge. They ran through the pool knocking off Team Underrated and the stubborn KBR. In the quarterfinal they got past Mid Jersey Heat before falling to F.A.C.E.S. in the semifinal. When you face them you must prepare to stop Anthony Gibbs, Mekhi Hall, Romello Ford and Nakye Sanders.

Noticeable Top Performances

Brandon Randolph(Gauchos)- Randolph went for 20 points in their opening game against Delaware Finest. The ultra quick guard got out into the open floor and scored many uncontested lay up’s his speed is very effective on this level of basketball.

Shamorie Pond (Gauchos)- Pond followed up Randolph’s feat with a 20 point game of his own against PTS Pistons during their pool game. The lefty does whatever he wants offensively on the floor. It’s extremely hard for any guard at this age to stay in front of him.

RJ Cole (F.A.C.E.S.)- Cole lit up most of the opposition averaging about 18 points a game in this tourney. He has great quickness and probably has the best range from the perimeter in this age group. Once RJ gets hot he burns the net quickly.

Tyus Battle (Team Battle)- Battle has grown a few inches and lead his team in scoring during this event. His size and ball handling is a very rare combination on this level. He relishes the opportunity to shine on this type of stage.

Grand Finale All Tournament Team
George Pena (Gauchos)- MVP
Jared Rivers (Gauchos)
Shamorie Pond (Gauchos)
Brandon Randolph (Gauchos)
RJ Cole (FA.C.E.S.)
Ray Montilous (F.A.C.E.S.)
Javon Reis Wilson (F.A.C.E.S.)
Shyquan Gibbs (F.A.C.E.S.)
Alex Leder (PTS Pistons)
Keith Simms (PTS Pistons)
Vincent Walker (PTS Pistons)
Anthony Gibbs (Team Artest)
Mekhi Hall (Team Artest)
Romello Ford (Team Artest)
Nakye Sanders (Team Artest)
Tyus Battle (Team Battle)
Anthony Schimbeno (Mid Jersey Heat)
Darius Chester (Team Underrated)

Inside The Grand Finale 08: 14 and Under Division

The 14 and Under Division had some interesting inside stories. The oldest bracket in the tourney produced some big time players and teams. Here’s a look at the division as a whole and what took place at the Grand Finale.

Team Nelson Dominance!
Team Nelson formerly Educated Athletes took it to the hard wood this weekend and let everyone know that they will be a tough team to beat this season. The Chester based squad play tremendous defense and brings virtually two starting fives to the table. Their hard nose style and willlignness to push the rock at every opportunity caused them to wear down most of their opponents. It’s early in the season thus far but when our preseason rankings drop later this month you might see them in the #1 spot.

Coach Craig “Kat” Keyes (Mr. Consistency)

Coach Kat from the NY Panthers needs to receive accolades for being one of the most successful and consistent coaches in the region. His squad is not overwhelmed with big time names but he uses his players to the best of their ability. His finals appearance at the Game Over Classic, MDC and Grand Finale will attest to the that. Then when you through in his championship at Funsport this fall/winter there’s nothing else to be said.

KBR Fliers Reunite

Another good sight this weekend was seeing the KBR Fliers finally taking the court together as a unit. They looked good on the floor together and made a run to the quarterfinals. If they are able to keep this crew together for the season the NJ 14 and Under Crown should be right in their grasp. In these days were many squads break up for good it would be awesome to see them ride out the season together.

Beantown Boys

The BHC Bearcats/Saintz took the trip down from Boston and came within a final second layup of making it to the finals. They have a host of talent and play with some high intensity. Here’s a look at their phenomenal backcourt.

Ramone Gibbons is a high scoring that can get it done every time he touches the floor. He destroyed teams with his scoring in traffic and using his body to draw contact. He’s grown a few inches since I saw him last spring and his game has reach new heights. He has to be one of the top 8th Graders in the New England area. He averaged over 20 points in this event.

Dimitri Lewis was perhaps the quickest guard I saw this weekend with the rock. He goes end to end in a blur and has enough ball handling skills to make defenders disappear. Lewis was able to start and finish off many fast breaks and keep his teammates happy with passes.

Never Too Young!

The Grand Finale had a couple of players that were playing up in the 14U division that need notice. Here’s a look at both of them.

Nazier Chew is a 7th Grader and played the point spot for the Trenton Hurricanes. Chew was very effective leading them to the quarterfinals and showed tremendous hear during their loss to eventual champ Team Nelson. I can’t wait to see him playing with his age group this spring.

Juwan Gooding is a 6th Grader that came down with the Boston squad and proved that he could hang with the big boys. The multi-talented guard can score on anyone at anytime. He has good size at this young age and would have dominated if he played on his grade level.

Other Noticeable Ballers

Jordan Forehand (Hoop Heaven)- Hoop Heaven needed a boast during their quarterfinal game against Keystone Blazers and he responded with a 24 point outburst. The combo guard is tough to contain around the basket and just has a true knack for scoring.

Trevis Wyche (KBR Fliers)- Wyche caught fire from the perimeter in their quarterfinal loss to the NY Panthers. He nailed 3 treys and looked very comfortable running the point for his reunited team. They should be ready to go.

Dalique Mingo (NY Panthers)- Mingo carried the load for the NY Panthers against the Fliers which sent them to the semifinals. He drained several treys and made some key plays down the stretch to help his team succeed. He had a very solid weekend.

Grand Finale 08 ALL Tournament Team
Lewis Hayes (Team Nelson)- MVP
Dajuan Drennon (Team Nelson)
Rondee Jefferson (Team Nelson)
Conrad Chambers (Team Nelson)
Darrell Nicholson (Team Nelson)
John Severe (NY Panthers)
Dalique Mingo (NY Panthers)
Master Coleman (NY Panthers)
Maynard Grant (NY Panthers)
Ramone Gibbons (BHC)
Juwan Gooding (BHC)
Dimitri Lewis (BHC)
Jordan Forehand (Hoop Heaven)
Jaren Sina (Hoop Heaven)
Nazier Chew (Trenton Hurricanes)
Rasoul Holland (KBR Fliers)
Rakwan Kelly (PPY Elite)

Diary Of A Baller: Jason Boswell Entry #13

Wassup basketball world, I'm back again to tell you how my week went.

Last Friday I went to 96th to watch my NY Patriots family play in a 13u one day tournament. They took the chip. Later that night I played in my first Fred Neal Holiday Classic game at Gauchos gym. We played against a team called Wyckoff from New Jersey. It was an easy blow out win I think I ended the game with about 14pts.

On Saturday I had school practice in the morning. Me and Patriots teammate Jaequan Brown killed in the scrimmage with dunk after dunk, it was fun. After that we got something to eat and headed to Baychester gym to workout before our game in the Fred Neal Classic. Junior College star Rasheem (Rah Rah) Jenkins spent the day with us while he was on vacation from school. We played a team called Visitation. Another easy win. Later that day I stayed in Gauchos gym to chill with my dad, my patriots coach, and Dashawn Suber to watch my boy Jordan Washington play.

Sunday afternoon was the big awaited game. The announcer at Gauchos kept saying Jason Boswell vs. Jordan Washington. We both started of slow but I picked it up by getting a couple and 1's on Jordan. I got him into early foul trouble. Late in the fourth quarter I got another and 1 on Jordan to foul him out. After that myself, Jaequan Brown & John Dewey went on a scoring run. I ended the game with about 19, Jaequan with about 17 and John with about 13. The game went into overtime and we won.

Championship day Monday we played against a scrappy Mt. Vernon Jr. Knights team the game went into overtime but we pulled out the win. I received MVP and ALL- Tournament for the game and my teammate Jaequan Brown also received ALL-Tournament. That ended off my week on a good note.

HAPPY NEW YEARS!!!