Saturday, June 4, 2011

Basketball Spotlight MDC 13U Top Point Guards

Vaughn Covington (Team Rebels)

The Basketball Spotlight MDC 13U Division talent was so deep we decided to break it down by position. Here’s a breakdown of the top floor generals that took the floor in Neptune, NJ.

Basketball Spotlight MDC 13U Top Point Guards

Vaughn Covington Guard (Team Rebels)- Point guards are respected for winning so Covington earned props by leading his crew to the championship game. The first aspect of Covington’s game that caught my eye was his improved jump shot. In the past I mentioned this as a part of his focus and he responded with evident hard work. He knocked down the outside jumper while also setting up teammates. His point guard skills are apparent.


NyRhique Smith Guard (Gauchos)- Smith responded to the big atmosphere in a good way. He tried to get teammates involved before taking over the scoring against Wilson Blue Devils and F.A.C.E.S.. His size and play making style reminds me of a miniature Tyreke Evans (I’m not calling him the next Tyreke). But like Reke, La Smoove makes the game look easy times.

Jalen Harris Guard (Wilson Blue Devils)- Harris will eventually become a true floor general but he excited the fans with his deep bombs and swagger within his play. This savvy point handler is capable of crossing over and pulling a shot from NBA 3 point range. I must say most of his shots looked very good.

Tremont Waters Guard (CT Elite)- The slick point guard is not the traditional floor general. He understands how to get teammates involved but will also pull up from deep to keep the defense honest. His play earned them a trip to the final four and a berth in Summer Slam.

Martiese Edwards Guard (Wilson Blue Devils)- Edwards is a hardnosed baller. He’s capable of running a team, scoring buckets and playing lock down defense. He is accustomed to the limelight and shined bright under the Spotlight. Ball handlers better have a handle when facing Edwards.

RJ Cole Guard (F.A.C.E.S.)- Cole played big this weekend. He’s a small guard on this level but his experience allows him to avoid traps and make things happen. I love his willingness to take the big shot He showed good poise which helped them win the MDC Crown.

Malcolm Manning Guard (Playaz)- Manning has some trickery in his handle that allows him to get past defenders off the bounce. He’s able to go both ways very effectively and displays good court vision.

Next Up: 13U Top Scoring Guards

Friday, June 3, 2011

Basketball Spotlight MDC 12U Top Performers Part 2

Cameron Norman (6th Man Warriors)

The 12U Division at the MDC had some top talent. Here’s Part 2 of our look at some of the top performers from this event.

MDC 12U Top Performers Part 2

Cameron Norman Guard (6th Man Warriors)- The skilled point guard once again represented himself well. He tallied 15 points against Nike Baltimore Elite which helped them reach the quarterfinal round. He has to be regarded as one of the top floor generals in this class.


Donovan Steward Guard (6th Man Warriors)- The 6th Warriors lost in the quarters but Steward found the hot hand against IZOD. The outside threat finished with 16 points including 6 from behind the arc.


Tyler Bourne Guard (Juice All Stars)- The tiny floor general faced some of the top defenses around and still managed to guide is team to the final four. He has good talent around him and knows how to get everyone involved.

Boubacar Kamissoko Guard (Playtime)- Kamissoko once again played some good ball. He averaged over 15 points a game while helping his squad reach the quarterfinals before losing to Milbank. He will be bringing his game to the Super Showcase.

Jahki Clark Forward (Playtime)- The newest addition to the Panthers did well in his Spotlight debut. He averaged double figures in points and rebounds including a 19 point outing against CT Elite.

Jared Simmons Guard (CBC)- The small spot up shooter made things happen and hit some big outside shots against Juice All Stars. He made teams pay for doubling down on Ismail Charles.

Quade Green Guard (Philly Freedom Stars)- Green was on his game against Team IZOD the electrifying guard went for 28 points including 4 treys. He’s one of the top prolific scorers in this age group. He earned an invite to the Super Showcase.

Eddie Lewis Guard (Milbank)- This guard had a double figure outing against that stingy CBC defense. He is one of several good guards on this new squad we look forward to watching them next season.

JP Sanders Guard (Team Final)- Sanders continued his smooth play and helped his team take ome the Blue Division crown. He will be sporting his ultra smooth game at the Basketball Spotlight Super Showcase.

Basketball Spotlight Summer Slam 11U Ready To Rumble

Summer Slam is the ultimate final four and will feature the Top 4 teams according to points to do battle for the Grand Champion prize. Teams have competed hard in various Spotlight events but only four can qualify. Below we list the 12U teams from each age that will make it to Summer Slam.

11U Summer Slam Qualifiers


1. Riverside Hawks: The Hawks had a runner up finish at the Grand Finale before winning the Baby Baller Bonanza which launched them to 9 points. They then collected 4 more points after finishing second at the MDC. They finished with 13 points.

2. We Run: The Bulldogs were very busy. They had quarterfinal appearances at the Clash For The Cup, AC Showcase and MDC. They scored another 6 points with semifinals losses at the Baby Baller Bonanza and the Grand Finale. They finished with 12 points.

3. Gauchos: The Choz won the Grand Finale and made it to the finals of the Clash For The Cup. They haven’t been to the Spotlight since so it will be interesting to see how they show up.


4. Maryland Spartans: MS won the 4 way tie breaker with their championship win in Atlantic City. They also had a quarterfinal march during the MDC. This kid is capable of winning the whole tournament.

Semifinals Matchup
#1 Riverside Hawks vs. #4 Maryland Spartans
#2 We Run vs. #3 Gauchos

Basketball Spotlight Summer Slam 12U Locked And Loaded


Summer Slam is the ultimate final four and will feature the Top 4 teams according to points to do battle for the Grand Champion prize. Teams have competed hard in various Spotlight events but only four can qualify. Below we list the 12U teams from each age that will make it to Summer Slam.

12U Summer Slam Qualifiers


1. Team IZOD: The Big Red Machine made it to the finals of the Grand Finale, and then made a final four run at the Clash For The Cup. Their next stop was a title at the AC Showcase before winning the MDC and taking home the Gold Ball. They finished with 17 points.

2. CBC: The Blue Bad Boys made deep runs in each time out. They had runner up finishes in the Clash For The Cup, AC Showcase and MDC. They are headed to a possible showdown with rival Team IZOD for all the marbles.

3. Juice All Stars: Juice had a quarterfinal finish in the Grand Finale and three final four appearances (Clash For The Cup, AC Showcase and MDC). Don’t count this team out cause they can sneak into the finals.

4. Team Final: TF had quarterfinal runs at the Clash For The Cup and AC Showcase which gave them 4 points. They then decided to go into the Blue Division for the MDC and collected 3 points which qualified them for Summer Slam.

Semifinals Matchup
#1 Team IZOD vs. #4 Team Final
#2 CBC vs. #3 Juice All Stars

Basketball Spotlight Summer Slam 13U Field Ready To Go


Summer Slam is the ultimate final four and will feature the Top 4 teams according to points to do battle for the Grand Champion prize. Teams have competed hard in various Spotlight events but only four can qualify. Below we list the 13U teams from each age that will make it to Summer Slam.

13U Summer Slam Qualifiers


1. F.A.C.E.S.: The Killer Bees started the season rough at the Grand Finale but rebounded to win the Clash For The Cup and The MDC. They also have a final four run under their belt from the AC Showcase. The finished with 15 points.

2. Gauchos: The Choz made it to the final four of the Grand Finale and lost in the finals of the Clash For The Cup. They also picked up 2 more points with a quarterfinal appearance at the MDC. They tallied 9 markers.

3. CT Elite: The Connecticut squad only had 2 points before entering the AC Showcase. Then they made final four appearances in Atlantic City and the MDC. The won the tie breaker after beating Team Scan head to head.

4. Team Scan: TS didn’t play in the MDC but they picked up a crucial 3 points by winning the AC Showcase Blue Division crown. They have a big first round match up against F.A.C.E.S..


Semifinal Matchups
#1 F.A.C.E.S. vs. #4 Team Scan
#2 Gauchos vs. #3 CT Elite


Next Up: 12U Field

Basketball Spotlight Summer Slam 14U Field Set


Summer Slam is the ultimate final four and will feature the Top 4 teams according to points to do battle for the Grand Champion prize. Teams have competed hard in various Spotlight events but only four can qualify. Below we list the 14U teams from each age that will make it to Summer Slam.

14U Summer Slam Qualifiers


1. Team Scan: TS took the #1 seed with 15 points after winning MDC. They also had a runner up finish at the Clash For The Cup and a final four run at the AC Showcase. They are definitely clicking right now and have a great chance of bringing home the ultimate crown.

2. F. A.C.E.S.: The Boys in Black collected 11 points by being very consistent. They started the season with a runner up finish at the Grand Finale. Next they made it to the quarterfinals of Clash For The Cup and AC Showcase before finishing in the final four of the MDC. The have a tough Expressions team to face in the semifinals.

3. Expressions: It only took two events for these boys to qualify (8 Points). First they stormed the AC Showcase before losing in the finals to The City. Then they made a championship game run at the MDC before losing to Team Scan. The Boston boys will try to crash the party.

4. Team Final: Remember these guys? The reigning Team Of The Year has been on a 15U tour so we don’t know what to expect from this bunch. They won the Grand Finale and finished in the quarterfinals of the Clash For The Cup. They still managed to qualify with 7 points and will have a first round match up with Team Scan.

Semifinal Matchups
#1 Team Scan vs. #4 Team Final
#2 F.A.C.E.S. vs. #3 Expressions


Next Up: 13U Field

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

AGame Super Shootout Returns


The AGame Super Shootout II will return and should be a great weekend of basketball. Some of the top teams in the region have already committed and you don’t want to miss the chance to winning a set of AGame Custom Uniforms

WHEN: JUNE 18th & 19th

WHERE: THE HILL SCHOOL (Pottstown, PA) (30 min. outside of Philadelphia)

AGES: 11U to 16U

COST: $355 per team

Multiple Team Discount
$335 - 2 Teams
$310 - 3 Teams
$285 - 4 Teams

Features:
-Top Notch teams will be in attendance
-Winning Teams win a FREE set of AGame uniforms for the entire team (over $900 in value...fully tackle twill numbers & letters) (Teams must submit roster right after tournament to receive new uniforms by July 12th)
-3 Game Guarantee
-Six Court Facility (all under one roof)
-Certified Referees
-FREE AGame apparel giveaways throughout the tournament

REGISTRATION ENDS: June 8th
REGISTER @ www.agamebballtournaments.com -or- submit your pament to:
AGame
439 South Broad St.
Trenton, NJ 08611

Contact Us At
1-877-898-4082 ext 100
267-257-4360 direct
carlhines@agameteam.com

DON'T WAIT, REGISTER YOUR TEAM TODAY, SPOTS ARE LIMITED!!!!!!

Basketball Spotlight MDC 12U Top Performers Part 1

Aaron Clarke (Team IZOD)

The 12U Division at the MDC was tremendous. The competition was very thick and we had some outstanding performers. Here’s our first look at some of the top 6th Graders that were at Hoop Group Headquarters.

MDC 12U Top Performers Part 1

Aaron Clarke Guard (Team IZOD)- If the MVP was given just for the finals then Clarke would have taken home the hardware. The shooting guard played at a very high level against CBC. He finished off plays on the break and even scored a couple of buckets with his off hand. Aaron continues to show improvements in his game such as ball handling and quickness. He definitely got busy on the big stage.


Jaecee Martin Guard (CBC)- “Mayweather” came within a few points of winning his first banner. He led all scorers with 28 points in the finals and dazzled the fans all weekend with his ball handling, scoring and spectacular play. His attacking style keeps the defense on their heels at all times.

Ismail Charles Forward (CBC)- Charles once again dominated the paint when it mattered. He’s very quick off his feet while combining good strength and great length for this level. I also like the way he’s trying to develop his ball handling skills. He’s nowhere near a finished product.

Chaylyn Martin Guard (CBC)- Martin hit some big shots in the semifinal win against Juice All Stars. Each game out he seems to become more confident and willing to attack. He takes full advantage of the defensive attention being paid to his brother Jaecee Martin and Ismail Charles.

David Kachleries Guard (Team IZOD)- Kachleries has the keys to “The Big Red Machine” and runs the show like a true engineer. He thrives in transition while making sure the scorers get the ball at the right time and place. He gets into the lane at will and is an effective playmaker.

Ronner Joseph Forward (Team IZOD)- It’s amazing how much this kid has improved in a short time. He always had a motor but now he’s trying to put together post moves. He was a problem on both backboards and an intimidating force inside.

Chris Coalman Forward (Juice All Stars)- Coalman’s length and agility makes him one of the best prospects in this class. At the MDC he led the team in scoring while posting over 20 markers per game. He runs the floor like a deer and specializes in cleaning the offensive glass.

Basketball Spotlight MDC 11U Top Performers Part 2

Alex Morton (NJ Shore Shots)

The 11U Bracket was serious all the way to the finals. Here’s Part 2 of how some of the top 5th Graders performed at the MDC.

MDC 11U Top Performers Part 2

Alex Morton Guard (NJ Shore Shots)- Morton showed tremendous confidence while shooting the ball from deep during the finals. He has a scoring mentality and demonstrates good range from behind the arc. His shooting kept things close for the Shore Shots.


Nazreon Reid Forward (NJ Shore Shots)- Reid is still in the developing stages but his length helps him rebound and alter shots in the paint. Once his offensive skills catch up with his potential size he might turn out to be a good prospect.

Trevor Covey Forward (NJ Shore Shots)- The strong forward is very light on his feet and possesses a feathery touch. His ability to create off the bounce makes him a constant matchup problem on this level.

Ryan Allender Guard (NJ Shore Shots)- Allender is a combo guard the scores from the wing and in transition. He has a good basketball IQ understands the importance of ball movement.


Alex Bajohr Guard (NJ Shore Shots)- The crafty point guard led his team to the Blue Division finals. He knows how to operate and run a team even when the pressure is own. He plays the game with a lot of swagger.

Jahir Holmes Forward (Philly Freedom)- Holmes does the dirty work inside that allows his guards to roam the perimeter. He hit the glass hard and scored on a couple of put backs. He’s an aggressive energy player.

Fatayar Wesley Guard (Philly Freedom)- Wesley teams with Holly to form one of the top backcourts around. He has an adequate handle and the ability to cut through the defense.


Elkana Hildago Guard (Team Final)- Hildalgo was very dominant in this age group. He has a lot of bounce to his game and can either score or drop a dime to one of his teammates.

Basketball Spotlight MDC 11U Top Performers Part 1

Luther Muhammad (We Run)


The 11U Division Of The MDC had the Monroe Sports Center buzzing. Here's Part 1 of the top performers from the weekend.

MDC 11U Top Performers Part 1

Luther Muhammad Forward (We Run)- Luther is a long lean jumping jack who’s game should continue to improve. Right now his strength lies in his athleticism both around the rim and in the open floor. He seems to be a name we will be talking about for years to come.

Dejaun Ellis Guard (Maryland Spartans)-Ellis is a big guard who loves to get the ball in the open court where he attacks the rim. Ellis loves to get the ball to his teammates for open shots. His strong frame helps him absorb contact when driving the lane.

Preston Bacon Guard (Maryland Spartans)-Bacon is a solid point guard who can both score and distribute. He has good quickness and speed with the ball. Bacon showed good three point range mostly off the catch from the wing, on the break or when he receives kick outs created by dribble penetration. He’s also a good defender who can play passing lanes well.

Brandon Madison Forward (Maryland Sports Scholars)- Madison is an athlete that excels in transition. He runs the floor and can make plays on the break. He plays with great energy and urgency on both ends of the floor. Madison is active on the glass on both ends of the floor.


Jared Jones Guard (Maryland Sports Scholars)- Jones caught fire from behind the arc in the finals. He nailed a few treys that helped his team keep the lead for good. He has a natural stroke.



Jamal Whittlessy Forward (Delaware Royalty)- Jamal has great hands and an attitude to grab every rebound. His strength and big body are tough to box out and keep off the glass. On this level he’s a force on the blocks.

Noah Taylor Forward (Delaware Royalty)- Taylor controls the paint area with a hostile disposition. He is a relentless rebounder with good understanding of offensive rebound opportunities. He run’s the floor on each possession and is good for a few easy buckets a game in transition.

Tyree Myers Guard (Baltimore Elite)- Myers is a steady guard with the ability to score in bunches with his three point shooting range. He sets up teammates in transition and plays with confidence and swagger. Myers is a pit-bull on D with good quickness and harasses the ball creating turnovers.

Kendall McMillen Guard (Baltimore Elite)- McMillen is a scoring guard that has consistently knocking down shoots all weekend. He has the ability to play either position in the backcourt offensively and can lockdown either position as well.

Omeri Watson Guard (Baltimore Elite)- Watson is clever guard that has the confidence to hit the big shot. His jump shot is solid out to the 3-point line and he can swish the mid-range pull-up as well. Despite being on the stocky side, But he can changes speeds very well to keep defenders off balance.

Tylek Chambers Forward (New Heights)-Chambers is a tough match-up in transition with a knack to the basket. He has good size that enables him to be effective around the basket and on the boards. He showed a nice understanding of passing the ball after drawing defenders.

Sahdique Watkins Guard (New Heights)-Watkins is a high energy guard who can score the ball in a variety of ways. He can get to the rim in transition or stop and knock down a pull up jumper.

Austin Longhlin Guard (Team NJ ABC)- Longlin is a good shooter with range. When his feet are set you can practically put it in the book. He has a quick release with nice rotation on the ball.


Stay Tune As We Bring You Inside The MDC 11U Including The All Tournament Team.