We are in Day 2 of the 12U Nationals and Basketball Spotlight once again caught the action at the Boo Williams Center. Today we will start off by bringing you the top forwards that performed on the stage.
Day 2 Top Forwards
Cody Riley (Cali Styles)- Riley is a dominant force on this level. He showed his all around game today. He intimidated the opposition with his defensive presence and pushed the rock up the floor. I really got a kick out of watching his court vision. This kid really sees the floor like a guard. The youngster finished off his day with a two handed dunk off the vertical leap.
Trenton Russell (M.A.T.T.S. Mustangs)- It was another polished performance for the versatile forward. Russell did damage inside but also hurt the Nashville Celtics with his outside touch even draining a few three balls. He refused to let his team loss today.
Dillon James (M.A.T.T.S. Mustangs)- While Russell showed his perimeter skills James commanded attention in the paint. His turn around shot has great touch and he knows how to establish position on the blocks. His play was crucial in his team’s victory.
Jermaine Bowe (Delaware PAL)- Bowe cleaned the glass well for his team while also running the lane in transition. He’s a straight lined kid who could have a future as a wide receiver or track star. This kid is a true athlete.
Coulter Dotson (Nashville Celtics)- Dotson is definitely polished for this age. He demonstrated a mature drop step and excellent touch on the blocks. I like his length and really believe he has a good upside down the road. Remember this name.
Ismail Charles (CBC)- Charles scared the competition when he ran the floor. He finished off several feeds from Mayweather Martin and punished them on the boards. I also like the way he continues to improve his ball handling. He has a ways to go but I love the effort.
Lydell Geffard (Playtime)- Lydell positioned himself deep under the basket and operated. He controlled the boards and used a baby hook to score over the defense. I like the fact that understands he’s post player and doesn’t waste time roaming the perimeter.
Jahki Clark (Playtime)- The one word that describes this kid is energy. He runs the floor like a deer and is involved on every play. He manufactures points just off his hustle play. Any coach would love this kid.
CHAMPIONSHIP: FINAL FOUR PREVIEW What an exciting weekend of basketball it’s been at ESPN’s Wide World of Sports in Lake Buena Vista, Florida! Perhaps the best is yet to come on the event’s final day as the remaining teams in this year’s field are among the nation’s best and will not leave the Orlando area without placing nationally. Some of the top clubs and players here are familiar within the class of 2015 while others are beginning to make their mark on the grassroots hoops scene. HYPEBasketball is happy to be present in Florida for the conclusion of the premier junior high event in the country and has a glimpse of what to look for as the final day of action is ready to go. The remaining four teams set to participate in the 2011 Eighth Grade AAU D1 National Semifinals are as follows:
WORLDWIDE (GEORGIA) The Peach State squad is much improved since last year and have added a huge piece in guard Terrance Phillips. This young team not only cruised through pool play but have yet to be seriously tested in the championship bracket thanks in large to the play of their frontcourt that includes major pieces in Daniel Giddens, Kevin Murph, and Makki Brown. Wing Ty Hudson is battled tested for Worldwide and has been a major contributor for the team throughout the majority of the week as well. As their rematch with the Texas Titans approaches, it will be interesting to see if 2016 guards Jared Harper and Christian Turner handle the bigger and older Titans backcourt with the same poise that have carried themselves with thus far during the week.
TITANS (TEXAS) Last year’s 13U AAU National Champions in the 2015 class, the Titans have long been recognized as a power in this age/grade division. A confident and well-coached group with plenty of chemistry, the Titans also have a number of standout players that take turns sharing the spotlight. Typically thought of as the main attraction, 6-foot-7 forward Mickey Mitchell is an impressive athlete with a developing skill set. He’ll have help on the wings from Jessie Pistokache and Soso Jamabo. Grant Troutt is the team’s main threat from the outside, while Dennis Hogg and Samir Sehic give the Titans even more size and offensive versatility in the post.
BOCA P.A.L. VIPERS (FLORIDA) Call them the surprise of the tournament and you won’t hear many arguments. The Vipers have stormed through an unbelievably talented eighth grade field and made it look relatively easy for the most part. They earned their way into the semifinals after fighting back from a seventeen point deficit versus the Atlanta Celtics. A gritty backcourt led by Joshua Borders and Jose Morales, the Vipers have shot the ball well in this tournament, and are capable of going on big runs from deep as a team. On the wing, Greg Kaeprzak has provided excellent minutes for the team, and may be one of the most versatile rebounders and defenders in the field of nearly 130 teams. In terms of long-term prospects, there has definitely been a buzz in the gym about 6-foot-6 forward Alaowei Talent, and the Coral Springs native can make that buzz grow into a roar if he’s able to lead his team to a championship at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports.
TEAM TEXAS ELITE (TEXAS) The semifinal field concludes with a familiar squad in Team Texas Elite. A well-known program, and long respected team in the class of 2015, Team Texas has a lot of offensive firepower in their favor. Their backcourt is anchored by Matt McQuaid and Austin Grandstaff, two of the better shooters in the entire country who each take turns handling the ball for Texas. The frontcourt is just as imposing, featuring Elijah Thomas and Tony Lewis, two big-bodied post players who are capable of finishing at the rim with power.
The AAU 12U Nationals kicked off today in Hampton, Virginia and Basketball Spotlight was in the building as promised. We got a chance to watch some new talent and usual suspects. Finally, here are the forwards that impressed us the opening day.
Day 1 Top Forwards
Jatirious Smith (CB Spiders)- Smith skills showed why the Spiders are tough to beat. He beat the opposing big man down the floor for several easy buckets. Being that this youngster has guard skills He’s too difficult to slow down in transition which leads to points for his squad. He has a huge impact on the game on this level.
Ronner Joseph (Team IZOD)- Joseph was a rebounding machine today on both ends of the floor. Most players in this class can’t match his motor or intensity right now. He simply outworked the opposition on during their win against CT Elite.
Tyree Montgomery (Indiana Elite)- Tyree has a high ceiling and showed flashes today. He was one of the best athletes I saw today. He’s a quick leaper with developing offensive moves. He looks like one of the next forwards in the Indiana Elite pipeline.
Myles White (Haywood Elite)- White will eventually transform to the wing. But right now he showed decent ups and a good face up game. He was able to roam the baseline and cash in on opportunities.
Cody Bowes (Top Risers)- Bowes threw his weight around in the paint. He scored close to the tin and used his fouls very effectively. He made guards pay dearly for driving down the lane. I also like the way he runs the floor for a gentle giant.
David Baptiste (Top Risers)- David can handle the ball but has a soft floater when facing the cup. His body structure tells me his post days are numbered and we will be reading about him on the wing.
The AAU 12U Nationals kicked off today in Hampton, Virginia and Basketball Spotlight was in the building as promised. We got a chance to watch some new talent and usual suspects. Next, we will take a look at the top scoring guards that got busy.
Day 1 Top Scoring Guards
Nate Pierre Louis (Team IZOD)- CT Elite tried to make things interesting but Pierre Louis stepped up to close the door. The poised scorer loves the stage and showed his outside shot especially from the mid range area. He hurt their heart with some clutch buckets and free throws down the stretch.
Will Dillard (Haywood Elite)- It took only a few moves and I can see what the big fuss is about in Dillard. He’s a big time athlete with breakout ability. In this game he let his team run their offense and concentrated on playing good deny defense. He showed good maturity for a rising 7th Grader.
Quadir Burgess (Philly Freedom Stars)- Burgess didn’t have is best shooting game but his confidence to pull off the dribble from anywhere makes me believe he knows what he’s doing. He is strongly built so he showed effect the game for a few more years.
Shyheim Hicks (CT Elite)- I saw the numbers he posted at the Spotlight events and after watching him I see why. The big guard has a lot of wiggle in his game and the size to finish off drives. Years to come he will learn to cut down his amount of dribbles which will turn him into a better prospect.
Wooshie Sapitan (Indiana Elite)- Wooshie had to be one of the quickest guards I saw today. This southpaw rushed into the lane and finished frequently. He doesn’t waste time with a lot of dribbles but instead attacks like a running back.
Jamell Goulbourne (Top Risers)- Jamell has a ratchet from deep. He shots high arching treys that cut deep to opponents when they drop. I do think he needs to work putting the pill on the floor and creating plays but the good thing is he’s only a 6th Grader so he has time.
Markus Howard (West Coast Elite)- This guard put up one of the best performances of the day. The combo guard scorched the competition for nearly 30 points with deep treys and nice finishes in the lane. He was definitely a nice surprise today.
The AAU 12U Nationals kicked off today in Hampton, Virginia and Basketball Spotlight was in the building as promised. We got a chance to watch some new talent and usual suspects. First, we will take a look at the top floor generals of today.
Day 1 Top Point Guards
Ty-shon Alexander (CB Spiders)- Some will wonder about Alexander being listed on this section but he distributes the rock so well I didn’t know where else to put him. Today he truly dominated the game in several categories without scoring big numbers. You have the love it when you watch a lanky guard rebound the rock push it coast to coast and drop a nice dime or finish easy. There are not many guards at this event that possess this kid’s all around skills.
Zack Dawson (Top Risers)- The slick point guard from Miami kept me on my toes. He combines a smooth dribble and good court vision with an accurate stroke from behind the arc. Indiana Elite tried pressuring this floor general but he had too many tricks up his sleeve.
Tra Landers (Indiana Elite)- Landers loves to show off his ball handling which can cause trouble when he tries to split traps. His crossover makes him difficult to defend in a man to man situation. When he’s playing under control he makes good things happen.
Jordan Perkins (Haywood Elite)- Perkins did a good job managing the game in their win against DC Assault. He used his strong frame and low dribble to protect the pill while orchestrating the offense. He seems to have a very high basketball IQ.
Quade Green (Philly Freedom Stars)- Green enjoys setting defenders up for his deep crossover. He was able to make some things happen but I think he settled for his 3 point shot a little too much. He should concentrate on putting more pressure on the defense by driving.
David Kachleries (Team IZOD)- David confidence showed today. He was able to make plays against and strong and stingy CT Elite defense. He also seems to have the floater back which is a good weapon when he drives the lane.
Azur Swain (CT Elite)- Swain is maturing nicely at the point guard spot. He showed more speed and the ability to make plays. He’s very poised and knows his way around the floor.
Basketball Spotlight Baller T-Shirts will be available at the AAU 12U National Championships at Boo Williams Center. Don’t miss a chance to get your hands on one these hot T Shirts.
The 12U AAU Nationals is loaded with talent and heavy hitting teams. Basketball Spotlight is currently in Hampton and we will be bringing you exclusive recaps daily. Our final look takes us to the South and here's a look at some of their top teams.
12U Preview: South
CB Spiders: The Spiders ran through the Spotlight CB Spiders Classic, NC State tourney and a few other tournaments. They have several big guards that cause matchup problems. Their versatility can take them deep in this tournament.
NC Rising Prospects: The Prospects possess one of the top post players in the country and a wealth of big tournament experience. They traveled the country this year look for the best bump so they should not be fazed by this atmosphere.
Carolina Flight: The Flight is known by their huge frontline but word has it that they have added a new point guard that can get things going. If this is so then the Flight might cause some raucous in their loaded pool.
M.A.T.T.S. Mustangs: This disciplined group will backdoor you all day. They are well coached and cannot be under estimated. If they get hot from the perimeter it could be a long day for opponents.
Atlanta Celtics: This group is stacked with long, wiry players. When they are on the same page they are capable of blowing anyone out. This bunch is exciting to watch.
Atlanta Knicks: The Knicks are anxious to get back among the national elite. They have a balanced attack with an aggressive style on both ends of the floor. We definitely will check them out today.
Maryland Panthers Will Be Representing The Potomac Valley
The 12U AAU Nationals is loaded with talent and heavy hitting teams. Basketball Spotlight is currently in Hampton and we will be bringing you exclusive recaps daily. Here’s a look at the teams from Middle Atlantic, USA that will be headed to Hampton.
12U Preview: Middle Atlanitc, USA
Maryland Panthers: Coach Smoke squad is coming off a Potomac Valley crown and is hungry for more. They have a balanced group including some serious guards and a dominant post player.
DC Assault: The Assault will need their experience in this type of event to make a deep run. They have some poised guards and have added some depth for this trip. They are a dangerous group.
Team Nelson: The Mid Atlantic Champs got a tough draw with Cali Styles in their pool but they are Spotlight tested so they should be okay. We will definitely have our eye on this group.
Team Final: TF has a pool with some unfamiliar teams. They have been playing good leading up to this event and should be on course for a good showing. Their confidence is sky high right now.
Team Takeover: TT definitely added some players since when we saw them in Charlotte. Their athletic forwards mesh well with their good guard play.
6th Man Warriors: The Warriors have a tough pool featuring Cali Styles and a familiar foe in Team Nelson. They will need to play very smart and control the tempo to be successful.
Philly Freedom Stars: This team loves to brawl and they will need it to get through this serious competition. Philly is known for never backing down and now is their chance to really prove it.
Team IZOD Will Be Looking To Paint The Boo Williams Center Red
The 12U AAU Nationals is loaded with talent and heavy hitting teams. Basketball Spotlight is currently in Hampton and we will be bringing you exclusive recaps daily. Here’s a look at the teams from the Northeast that will be traveling down.
12U Preview: Northeast
Team IZOD: The Big Red Machine took a hit at the Spotlight CB Spiders Classic, now they will be anxious to show they have their swagger back. They have a very serious pool featuring Houston Elite, CT Elite and Carolina Flight.
CBC: The Bad Boys will be making their AAU National debut. The teams in their pool need to look for a Mike Tyson type bum rush as soon as the ball is released. Is the AAU Nationals ready for CBC?
Juice All Stars: The Coney Island Clan is also in the building. We expect them to run and gun as soon as they enter the Boo Williams Center. Coach Bourne will be racing up and down the sidelines energizing his crew.
Playtime: The Green and Black are here to make some noise. They have played in some tough games so they should be ready to go. They have a tough game against CBC to open things up.
CT Elite: These boys wanted a shot at Team IZOD and their wish was granted during pool play. They will also have to tangle with Houston Elite and a stubborn Carolina Flight.
Milbank Flyers: The NY squad has thrown their hat into the ring. They are a scrappy bunch that will be looking to earn some respect. The stage is set and we will see if they are ready.
Basketball fans can now check out some of the top games at the 11U AAU Nationals in Cocoa Beach via internet live stream. Click the link below and then to click on live events. Basketball Spotlight will continue to keep you guys updated on the happenings in the grammar school basketball world. We Run from NJ is playing right now.
The 11U AAU Nationals kicked off yesterday in Cocoa Beach and a few Spotlight tested teams are in the building. Here’s a breakdown of who did what down in Florida.
11U Day 1 Results
We Run Bulldogs: Defeated Reda Canada 55-40 Next Up: Louisiana Legends (3:40 PM)
Riverside Hawks: Defeated Arkansas Celtics 66-13 Next Up: George Hill All Stars (1:00 PM), West Virginia Explosion (5:00 PM)
Gauchos: Defeated AZ Team Powerhouse (40-29) Next Up: NC Running Rebels (5:00 PM)
Philly Freedom Stars: Defeated West Virginia Explosion 42-33 Next Up: Arkansas Celtics (11:00 AM), George Hill Rising Stars (5:00 PM)
Carolina Flight: Lost To 916 Select 36-31 Next Up: Nike Baltimore Elite (1:00 PM)
2011 BOYS’ EIGHTH GRADE AAU DIVISION I NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP: POOL PLAY RECAP
The 2011 14U AAU National Championships wrapped up pool play on Sunday from ESPN’s Wide World Of Sports in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. The Orlando-metro area was full of young basketball talent as many of the nation’s best rising freshmen have come together for an exciting week of hoops from Walt Disney World. With teams moving on to the National and Classic brackets on Monday, HYPEBasketball is proud to present the top 10 performers we’ve watched so far during the tournament. We’ll have more player and team updates as the week moves forward. Enjoy!
6’8 PF/C Daniel Giddens – Worldwide The Georgia-native really exploded onto the scene in May at John Lucas’ International Middle School Combine and has continued his stellar play in Florida. While his offensive moves are still a work in progress, the young post is a capable finisher at the rim, and doesn’t mind flushing on opponents who stand in his way. Of all the frontcourt prospects we’ve watched this week, Giddens has been the most reliable rebounder and shot blocker of them all.
6’3 WG KeVaughn Allen – Arkansas Soldierz Elite One of the top perimeter prospects in the class of 2015, the Soldierz took an early loss, but Allen helped the team bounce back and qualify for the national bracket. With an AAU state championship under his belt, Allen has spent the majority of his spring and summer playing on the 16U and 17U level, but seems to be enjoying showcasing his ability in his own age/grade division. If you’re looking for a fun guard to watch, don’t miss the Soldierz in action!
6’2 WG Isaiah Briscoe – Team Philly Aztecs A popular name this spring and summer, Briscoe has already picked up a number of scholarship offers from some of the nation’s premier college programs before entering his freshman season. Due to his scoring ability, Briscoe will be listed as a shooting guard but can slide over to the point guard position if needed. He’s moonlighting with the Aztecs here in Orlando and has been a great compliment to Philly guards Marcus Floyd and Traci Carter so far.
5’11 PG Sam Foreman – Team Final Team Final has one of the most impressive young backcourts in the country, but through the first three days of pool play, Sam Foreman has been his team’s top performer. He’s fearless going to the rim and does a nice job of finding open teammates and making plays in the lane. Defensively, he’s been great on the ball, and also does a nice job of anticipating away from the action. As he continues to be a distributor and finds consistency with his jumper from deep, Foreman has a pretty nice package for a future floor general.
6’3 WG Austin Grandstaff – Team Texas Elite One of the best shooters in the nation’s 2015 class, Grandstaff got loose for 32 points in the first half of his team’s final pool play game. Coming off a strong performance at the Adidas Phenom Camp in San Diego, Grandstaff looks determined to show people he’s MVP-worthy, as he fell just short of the award in California weeks ago. He’s grown to a legitimate 6-foot-3, is brimming with confidence on the perimeter, and beginning to create off the bounce.
6’5 WF Joshua Jackson – The Family For the most part, the 2011 14U AAU Nationals has been a guard-dominated event, and Jackson may have been the most impressive of the bunch so far. He was the best player on the court as his squad knocked off the defending National Runner-Up Cincinnati Knights in pool play, and torched the other two opponents he faced for 20+ points. More impressively, not only is Jackson a player right now, he has a tremendous ceiling as a prospect.
6’3 WG Anthony Mathis – Fast Team Sports The Oregon native certainly isn’t the most familiar player in the 2015 class, but his ability and production definitely places him in discussion as one of the top perimeter players we’ve seen in this young class to date. Playing for a squad with only six players, F.A.S.T. Team Sports ran out of the gates to an undefeated start behind huge scoring efforts from Mathis and 6-foot-4 teammate Ryan Bay. Both Mathis and Bay should be considered two of the top rising freshmen prospects on the West Coast at this time.
6’3 WG Chance McSpadden – Nike Team Florida The talented combo guard is a playmaker extraordinaire with the ball in his hands and works for his touches away from the ball as well. McSpadden is very smooth and has a lot of deceptive quickness and athleticism in his game to match his impressive length. It’s easy to watch him, like his game, and know he’s a player. What’s difficult because he is so skilled, is determining exactly what his main strengths are, and the impact he has for his team when he is on the court. We’ll continue to monitor him throughout the week.
6’3 WG Jesse Pistokache – Texas Titans There are several players to like on the returning 2010 13U AAU National Champions, but Pistokache has been the most consistent producer for the Titans. Yet to have a close match-up in late game situations, the talented perimeter prospect has consistently knocked down jumpers from mid-range and the perimeter, and has also done a nice job of finishing around the cup. Good for 30+ in his last pool play game, Pistokache is one of the event’s top scorers so far. With highly regarded teammate Mickey Mitchell playing limited minutes in pool play, Pistokache has quickly embraced his role as the team’s leader.
6’8 C Diamond Stone – Milwaukee Young Legends At times the young post has been frustrated with the physical nature and speed of some of the games, but he’s extremely gifted, and managing to contribute in major ways. An excellent rebounder with a great feel for the ball coming off the rim, Stone also has good timing defensively, and is a disruptor in the paint. Without question one of the top frontcourt prospects in the 2015 class nationally, he’s offensively game is coming along nicely, and he is a threat to score when he gets position on block. As he learns to temper his emotions and works his body into shape, Stone has nowhere to go but up from here forward.
Malik Newman (MBA Hoops) and Tavon White (Team Rebels)
Pool play has concluded at the 14U Nationals and Championship Bracket play will begin today. Many of the Spotlight tested teams are headed to the championship field and here’s a breakdown of what’s coming today.
Day 3 Results
Team Rebels (3-0): Defeated MBA Hoops 64-59 Defeated Nashville Celtics 48-43 Next Game: Dorian’s Pride (3:35 PM)
Team Final (3-0): Defeated Southern Kings Gold 47-25 Defeated Maryland Finest 57-41 Next Game: MBA Hoops (11:20 AM)
NJ Got Game (2-1): Lost to Team Texas 64-51 Defeated S. Georgia Kings 55-51 Next Game: Nike Team Florida (9:55 AM)
The City (3-0): Defeated Savannah Thunder 82-42 Defeated Soldier Elite 77-59 Next Game: Team Sneed (3:35 PM)
Team Scan (3-0): Defeated Run and Gun 54-45 Defeated M Tropics 60-27 Next Game: RDU United Celtics (9:55 AM)
Kejuan Johnson has been a dominant force on the AAU scene for the last four years. Recently he participated in the John Lucas Camp and punished the competition. He seems to be getting his perimeter game together which will boost his stock in the future. Check out his highlights presented by City League Hoops TV.
Breakdown: “Sauce” is a southpaw scoring machine. He can hit you with the deep trey, floater or finish at the rim. Defenses have tried strategies to slow down Allen but somehow he continues to post high numbers. Now Allen will try to light up the Super Showcase on August 13th against the players from his class. Do you want some “Sauce”? Meet him at the Basketball Spotlight Super Showcase.
Isaiah Whitehead 2010 POY Basketball Spotlight Alum and our #1 ranked prospect from our 2014 rankings Isaiah Whitehead is currently contributing a Summer Diary for ESPN.com. The diary will give the audience the chance to hear from Whitehead as he travels the summer circuit of tournaments and camps. We have his first four entries listed below. Isaiah was voted as the Basketball Spotlight 2010 Player of The Year.
Chris Atkinson from Team Scan has been selected to play in the 2nd Annual Basketball Spotlight J.E.M. All Star Classic. Chris has put together an outstanding season including All Tournament honors at the Clash For The Cup and AC Showcase while also taking home the Mr. Memorial Award at the MDC . His play has helped his team receive the #1 seed for Summer Slam.
Team Scan’s director Terrence “Munch” Williams feels Chris is very deserving of his selection. “Chris’s selection to play in the All Star Classic is a testament of his ability to make his teammates better and putting winning in front of individual numbers” said Williams. Atkinson will be representing the North at this event scheduled for August 27th at Life Center Academy in Burlington, NJ. Stay tune as Basketball Spotlight will profile more players selected to this exclusive event.
The big show called the 14U Nationals is about to go down in Orlando, Florida. The Basketball Spotlight tested teams will be headed down and it’s there last time to go for the grammar school gold.
14U Nationals Preview
Team Scan: The MDC Champs is currently leading in Summer Slam points and will take their organized offense down to Disney in quest for a crown. Super guard Devonte Green was a great pick up and watch out for the backcourt of Chris Atkinson and Bryce Aiken.
Team Final: The Grand Finale Champs has a ton of experience playing on the 15U level. They have a tight knit bunch and will be looking to finally make to that elusive final four. We look for Lamar Kimble, Malachai Richardson and Trevaughn Wilkerson to have great outings.
The City: The AC Showcase and NY Champs started the season slow but got it together when they were fully loaded. Now it’s time to get things done in Orlando. They will be leaning on Donovan Mitchell and Mike Williams to carry them over the top.
Team Rebels: The Mid Atlantic champions are a physical squad thirsty for attention. Tavon White and Vaughn Jenkins headline this crew and they shouldn’t be taken lightly. The heat is on!
Philly Aztecs: The Tecs are the only team on this list with final four experience. Their backcourt of Marcus Floyd and Traci Carter are among the best but now when you throw in the hottest player in the country Isaiah Briscoe another final four appearance is probable.
F.A.C.E.S.: The Boys in Black returned this season with a hot start early on. They have a spot in Summer Slam and will be heading to Orlando to shock the world. They will count on scoring guards Trey Lowe and Samir Taylor to get things done.
NJ Got Game: This group was formed two years ago with hopes of many titles. Now this will be their final outing on the grammar school level and they need to make something happen. This could be Isaiah Stills national coming out party.
Fairfax Stars Black: Bring your lunch pail when you face this bunch. FS brings intensity from buzzer to buzzer. Quick guard Carlos Thrash and forward Tyvez Monroe should be able to get them deep into the tournament.
Future Players: Point guard Reggie Parker will be directing traffic for this squad and if Leroy Butts suits up they could make some noise in Orlando. They have been in brawls all year so they should be ready to go.
Cody Riley (Cali Styles)
Trenton Russell (M.A.T.T.S. Mustangs)- It was another polished performance for the versatile forward. Russell did damage inside but also hurt the Nashville Celtics with his outside touch even draining a few three balls. He refused to let his team loss today.
Dillon James (M.A.T.T.S. Mustangs)- While Russell showed his perimeter skills James commanded attention in the paint. His turn around shot has great touch and he knows how to establish position on the blocks. His play was crucial in his team’s victory.
Jermaine Bowe (Delaware PAL)- Bowe cleaned the glass well for his team while also running the lane in transition. He’s a straight lined kid who could have a future as a wide receiver or track star. This kid is a true athlete.
Coulter Dotson (Nashville Celtics)- Dotson is definitely polished for this age. He demonstrated a mature drop step and excellent touch on the blocks. I like his length and really believe he has a good upside down the road. Remember this name.
Ismail Charles (CBC)- Charles scared the competition when he ran the floor. He finished off several feeds from Mayweather Martin and punished them on the boards. I also like the way he continues to improve his ball handling. He has a ways to go but I love the effort.
Lydell Geffard (Playtime)- Lydell positioned himself deep under the basket and operated. He controlled the boards and used a baby hook to score over the defense. I like the fact that understands he’s post player and doesn’t waste time roaming the perimeter.
Jahki Clark (Playtime)- The one word that describes this kid is energy. He runs the floor like a deer and is involved on every play. He manufactures points just off his hustle play. Any coach would love this kid.
