Baby Baller Bonanza Recap: 11U Top Performers Part 2

Mark Bradshaw (Team Nelson)

Here’s a Part 2 of the Top Performers from the 11U Division of the Baby Baller Bonanza.

Baby Baller Bonanza Top Performers Part 2

Mark Bradshaw Guard (Team Nelson)- The lefty did his usual scoring damage while dropping 16 points against New Rens and another 16 markers during their 2 point win over rival NJ ABC. His team loss out on the final four because of the point system but he still represented.

Ahsan Huland EL Forward (Playtime)- The big lefty averaged 11 points a game and double figures in rebounds. He moves well on the blocks and demands the rock from the guards. He has better than average touch while out working opponents for the ball. He was a much needed piece to the Panthers puzzle.

Joshua Pierre Louis Guard (ECE-NJABC)- Josh was out to make a name for himself and I see some skills in the younger Pierre Louis. He as more of a point guard feel for the game than his older brother but does have the ability to also score the pill. I think we will see his breakout tournament soon.

Charles Noonan Forward (New Heights)- Noonan had a big game in their loss to Playtime. He finished with 18 points on some very athletic plays. His team had a tough weekend but we look forward to seeing them in action again soon.

Bryan Antione Forward (CJ Hawks)- In a few years don’t be surprised if Antione turns into one of the top players in the region. Right now he’s all legs which mean he has tons of growing to go. He showed some skills from the perimeter and creating his own shot.

Stephen Lubischer Guard (CJ Hawks)- Lubischer exploded against Brockton Bulldogs for 16 points. He can shoot the deep, midrange shot or attacked the rim. He plays the game at a very fast pace.

Alex Klatsky Guard (CJ Hawks)- Speaking of the perimeter this kid can really stroke it. He usually sets up in the corner and receives the rock after running through the offense. He led the team in 3 point field goals over the weekend.

Baby Baller Bonanza Recap: 11U Top Performers Part 1

AJ Hoggard (ECE-NJABC)

The Baby Baller Bonanza 11U Division was very competitive from top to bottom. Here’s a look at some of the top performers that graced the hardwood in Lakewood, NJ.

Baby Baller Bonanza 11U Top Performers Part 1

Anthony Hoggard Guard (ECE-NJABC)- Hoggard has officially moved over to the point guard spot and seems to love his new role. He fired no look passes all weekend while getting into the lane at will. Now as a point guard he must understand to channel his emotions a little better because its affects the entire team. But being only 11 he has time on his side.

Cole Anthony Guard (New Rens)- Anthony had a tremendous weekend especially in their pool play classic against NJABC. Cole buried several three balls but kept the crowd on their feet with his sweet spin moves near the bucket. He rebounds the ball well for a guard and has a polished game. His best performance came in their thrilling loss to NJABC in which he tallied 23 points.

Kurone Wilson Guard (New Rens)- This lefty was also a crowd pleaser for New Rens. He cut up the defense with double crossovers and used his athleticism to finish off double clutch shots at the rim. Defenders had a difficult time keeping this kid in front. He blasted Team Nelson for 18 markers in their 11 point victory.

Jordan McKoy Guard (Playtime)- At the end of the day McKoy might be the best prospect from this bunch. He has a natural feel for the game and some polished moves. Once he realizes how good he could be and develops a killer instinct his stock should shoot through the roof. His best game was a 20 point outing versus New Heights.



Darrian Dalcourt Forward (ECE-NJABC)- Dalcourt was just what the doctor ordered for NJABC. He dominated the glass and converted put backs against New Rens. The NY squad had no answer for this youngster on the boards. Darrian understands his role so he doesn’t dance around on the perimeter but instead goes straight to the blocks to post up.



Jelanie Carter Guard (Playtime)- Carter caught fire during their game against Brockton Bulldogs. He nailed 4 treys on his way to 17 points. As the shots started falling his confidence grew. Jelanie looked very comfortable from anywhere behind the arc but loves shooting it from the corner.

Baby Baller Bonanza 12U Championship Recap: Team IZOD Holds Off NWK

"Fly Guys" Grab Another Banner!

Markquis Nowell scored 18 points while Jalen Brooks and Tyrek Chambers scored 10 points apiece to help Team IZOD defeat NWK 56-53 to win the Baby Baller Bonanza 12U Championship.

MVP
Markquis Nowell (Team IZOD)- When Nowell wasn’t launching deep bombs he was finishing off fast breaks with lay ups. He got out in transition in a hurry and also ran the floor well in the secondary break. His best all around game might have been during their pool play blow out of Team Final. Nowell only tallied 9 points but showed some point guard skills while getting his teammates involved.

Baby Baller Bonanza 11U Championship Recap: ECE-NJABC Grabs Another Crown

ECE-NJABC Snatches The Banner

Jalen Gaffney and AJ Hoggard scored 12 apiece as ECE-NJABC defeated New Rens 44-19 to win the Baby Baller Bonanza. Kurone Wilson scored 12 points for New Rens in the loss.

MVP
Jalen Gaffney (ECE-NJABC)- Gaffney jumped deep into the POY race after this performance. E took bumps and bruises while still killing the competition. Jalen had the floater working along with deep bombs. His finest hour came against New Rens in their pool play battle. Gaffney finished with 20 points and answered each New Rens run with a trey ball.

Baby Baller Bonanza 10U Championship Recap: Rip City Runs Through The Bonanza

Rip City Mercy Ruled The Field

Jhamir Brickus scored 13 points as RIP City defeated CJ Hawks 33-13 to win the Baby Baller Bonanza 10U Championship. Congratulations to Rip City coaches and players for their victory.

Roster
Rahdir Hicks #1
Malik Edwards #2
Jhamir Brickus #3
Maki Mullen #4
Ricky Ortega #6
Rasheen Caulk #8
Mahir Sharif #10
Michael Eze #11
Malcolm Folk #12
Jonathan Proctor #21
Steve Pittman #22
Anthony Rightley #41

Diary Of A Baller: Tyus "Kid Mamba" Battle (Edison, NJ) Entry #28

What’s up basketball world, I am here again to tell about another week.

Monday was a really good day, school was really cool, my classes all went very smooth and the day actually went fast for the first day back. Monday afternoon, I went home and hung out with my brother after finishing up all of my homework a lot earlier than usual.

Tuesday the first part of the day went fast, school seems to be getting easier. I think because the weather has been great and the teachers are all in a good mood. I had a few quizzes and test that I am pretty happy with the results on. After school I worked out for 2 hours with Bryce from Impossible Training. We worked on my pull-up for about 30 to 40 minutes and then we did some unreal ball-handling drills with the heavy ball and a regular basketball also.

Wednesday my dad returned from his business conference in Las Vegas with a lot of energy. I was a little tired from a long weekend and although I did not show it, I was very happy that he was back. We pretty much just hung out and laughed a lot when he returned. I no doubt hit the weights a little and did my 250 push-ups before I went to bed but we played no basketball which all right sometimes.

Thursday I worked hard with my dad after a tough day at school. We went to the gym at 8’oclock and he killed me for 2 hours. We did shooting, ball-handling, heavy ball, suicides with the heavy ball and individual moves of the bounce. We went really hard the entire 2 hours, with one short water break and we were all very focused. Dad was not fooling around at all. I love the workouts with my dad because he is really intense and we get a lot done.

Friday school was good and it went a little slow because I wanted to go home and get little nap. It has been a long week and I cannot wait to get in the bed for a little rest. After some sleep and an hour of video games to relax, my brother and I had school practice. School practice was good and it went really fast. We were preparing for our first ever middle school championship and I could not wait.

Saturday morning, I got up early because I was so excited about the game. When the game started both teams hit their first few shots and at the half I only had about 10 points and we winning by just a few points. When the second half started we just hit the ground faster than they did and pulled away with a 24 point and I was MVP of the game. After the game my dad said I really dominated the game on both ends and showed great leadership. Every once in a while my dad gives me a compliment and when he does it pretty cool.

Sorry to end so abruptly but I have to go. I have a lot of homework to do but very little time to get it done. This is Tyus Battle signing off.

Baby Baller Bonanza Address

All Baby Baller Bonanza Games Will Be Played At Georgian Court University

900 Lakewood Ave

Lakewood, NJ 08701

Basketball Spotlight Texas Report :Battle Of The Big Citites Houston Vs. Dallas 13U Report (BY Paul Miranda)

Brock Lahey (Dallas Tarheels)

The 13U division provided many highlights and thrilling back-forth nonstop action throughout the whole weekend. Despite many tough and nail-biting games, the teams from Houston took bragging rights back home.

MVP
Brock Lahey #3 Dallas Tarheels
OMG!! This could play, very feisty and tenacious on defense, displayed an IQ that was off the charts, and his jumpshot was by far the best in the building. I think this young man averaged about 5 three point shots per game. Every game, I saw him play, he knocked down big shot after big shot. Game-changer for sure!

Other Top Performers

George Wilkerson #6 A Level Eagles
This 6’2” athletic big fella’ played hard every game. This kid played at the rim throughout, he rebounded the ball with authority, he defended the paint like he was in charge of Fort Know. Showed great abilities to score inside, with some great slashing moves and a postgame that had many of us in awe.


Jared Vanderbuilt #0 Houston Elite
The 6’2’’ big fella’ displayed an awesome set of skills proving why he’s one of the nation’s most highly touted players in the country for this 2017 class. He showed how easily he could get to the rack and finish with force, he showed great touch from midrange to downtown, and even looked good dishing out the rock to teammates on the fly.

Walter Prevost #7 A Level Eagles
This young man was big for his team more ways that just in size too. He was extremely active on the boards and the defensive end. He displayed an uncanny ability to guard on the perimeter. He’s athletic as they come, showed awesome ‘hops’ every time the ball went up. The ball looked like it was destined to be in his hands on both ends of the court.

Desni Burton #5 Houston Defenders Select
This scrappy and gritty point guard harassed all opposing players throughout the tournament. He was a bundle of energy that his team thrived off of. He ran his team’s offense with precision, finding ways to get his ‘bigs’ involved and still create shots for himself and his wings. I was excited watching this little fella’ do his thing on every possessions

Jordan Sowells #1 Dallas Tarheels
By far one of the best playmakers in the building for this class. He could create to get his shot off and help get shots off for teammates. His penetration put great pressure on opposing defenses. I loved watching hit big shots and come up with plays on the defensive side. Young man was relentless as they come and definitely was.

Chris Giles #8 Houston Elite
This long, lanky, and extremely gifted stud’s presence was evident in all phases of the game. Kid has crazy handles for his size, he can beat you in transition with the pass, pull-up-jumper, or finish at the cup. Kid can score it and defend it against the best of them. He showed that he can play all positions on the floor. Unbelievable attitude and composure.

Caleb Johnson #2 D-Will Metro Mustangs
This athletic 6 footer ran the floor like a guard. He displayed a great knack for being around the ball in the paint. He dominated in the paint on both ends of the floor. Young man showed outstanding leaping abilities and attacked the rim for every shot and every rebound. He probably averaged about 3 blocks shots per game.

Marvin Wilson #44 Houston Elite
The 6’2’’ tiny giant was a rumbling load that could move with unbelievable foot speed and appeared to be unreal shape for a man his size. He had a smooth feather-like touch around the basket and boy did he know how to bang with anyone in the paint. The most impressive trait about this young man was his amazing ability to run the floor and fill lanes.

Steven Prudhomme #41 Dallas Tarheels
Another 6 footer that could play inside and outside. His jump-shot was sweet as they come from midrange on in. He was tough on the defensive end too, blocking shots easily, which made him an intimidating force on the inside and when people came down the lane, they thought about him swatting it away…

Christian Williams #55 Houston Defenders
At 6’4” this big man was not hard to miss. He had a couple up and down games in the tournament but he was an intimidating factor on the defensive end, swatting plenty of shots . He rebounded the ball like his life depended on it and he worked hard to establish position almost every time. With a little more work and perseverance, I definitely believe that this kid will be a force to deal with.

Kenneth Morris #4 A Level Eagles
Oooh weee this guard was off the chain, loved the way he slashed and dashed to the rim from all kinds of angles. Scoring wasn’t a problem for this young man no matter where he was on the court. He played hard every play and his physique gave his opponents fits when trying go around him with the ball. Young man had swagger’ that was visible and evident.

Keaton Wallace #22 Dallas Tarheels
Another outstanding floor general that brought his best on every possession. He directed traffic for his kid like it was second nature. Leadership skills were clearly seen on both ends of the court. He knew how to get his shot off from all different angles, often putting up acrobatic shots that looked impossible to make.

Ricky Nelson #3 Houston Elite
‘Doc’ was in the house and was carving up opposing teams both days with extreme perfection. Doc’ has superb ball handling skills and is a HOUND on the defensive end. Doc’ had his man almost hyperventilating every game with several crossovers and in and out combo moves that had the crowd going bananas.

Video Profile: Jamir Moultrie (DC Assault)

Name: Jamir Moutrie

AAU Team: DC Assault

Position: Combo Guard

Class: 2017




Breakdown: Moultrie is by far one of Class of 2017 top guards in the East Coast. His hard nose style along with his skill set reminds me of a few former UConn guards. He had great outings during the Tip Off Classic and Clash For The Cup. I think he should explode over the summer and become a big fish on the 8th Grade circuit next year.

AGame Super Shootout 14U Championship Recap: #2 Team Scan Back In Winner's Circle

Team Scan Wins AGame Super Shootout

Team Scan defeated King Street Kings 70 - 51 to claim the 14U Agame super shootout crown. Team Scan was led by a strong performance from Bryce Aiken 16pts 6 assist and Temple Gibbs 14 pts 5 rebounds 4 assist. But Kassoum Yakwe was the difference maker with a outbreak performance dominating with 11 points 16 rebounds and 8 blocks. Dana King also was in double figures with 10 points.

Roster
Bryce Aiken
Dana King
Temple Gibbs
Sterling Hewitt
Brandon Randolph
Anthony Boateng
Patrick Strylza
Marcus McClary
Kassoum Yakwe
Coaches - Jamaal Womack, David Gates Adam Maldonado.

Baby Baller Bonanza 12U Schedule

The Baby Baller Bonanza 12U Schedule is listed below. Please make sure you arrive on times for games. We have a tight schedule and cannot tolerate late arrivals.

Pool E
Team IZOD
NWK
Team Final
NJABC

Pool F
Playtime
CJ Hawks
NJ Shore Shots
DC Assault

Sat. March 10th
2:00 PM E1-E2 (GC 1)
2:00 PM E3-E4 (GC 2)
5:00 PM E1-E3 (GC 1)
5:00 PM E2-E4 (GC 2)
6:00 PM F1-F2 (GC 1)
6:00 PM F3-F4 (GC 2)
8:00 PM F1-F3 (GC 1)
8:00 PM F2-F4 (GC 2)

Sunday March 11th
10:00 AM E1-E4 (GC 1)
10:00 AM E2-E3 (GC 2)
11:00 AM F1-F4 (GC 1)
11:00 AM F2-F3 (GC 2)
3:00 PM 1ST E-2ND F (GC 1)
3:00 PM 1ST F-2ND E (GC 2)
5:00 PM 12U Championship

Baby Baller Bonanza 11U Schedule

The Baby Baller Bonanza 11U Schedule is listed below. Please make sure you arrive on times for games. We have a tight schedule and cannot tolerate late arrivals.

Pool C
NJABC
Hoop Nation
Team Nelson
New Rens

Pool D
Playtime
Brockton Bulldogs
New Heights
CJ Hawks

Sat. March 10th
10:00 AM C1-C2 (GC 1)
10:00 AM C3-C4 (GC 2)
12:00 PM C1-C3 (GC 1)
12:00 PM C2-C4 (GC 2)
4:00 PM D1-D2 (GC 1)
4:00 PM D3-D4 (GC 2)
7:00 PM D1-D3 (GC 1)
7:00 PM D2-D4 (GC 2)

Sunday March 11th
12:00 PM C1-C4 (GC 1)
12:00 PM C2-C3 (GC 2)
1:00 PM D1-D4 (GC 1)
1:00 PM D2-D3 (GC 2)
4:00 PM 1ST C-2ND D (GC 1)
4:00 PM 1ST D-2ND C (GC 2)
6:00 PM 11U Championship

Baby Baller Bonanza 10U Schedule

The Baby Baller Bonanza 10U Schedule is listed below. Please make sure you arrive on times for games. We have a tight schedule and cannot tolerate late arrivals.

Pool A
CJ Hawks
Tha Ballers
Lehigh Valley Jr. Heat

Pool B
Hoop Nation
MABC
Rip City

Sat. March 10th
11:00 AM A1-A2 (GC 1)
11:00 AM B1-B2 (GC 2)
1:00 PM A1-A3 (GC 1)
1:00 PM B1-B3 (GC 2)
3:00 PM A2-A3 (GC 1)
3:00 PM B2-B3 (GC 2)

Sunday March 11th
9:00 AM 3RD A-3RD B
2:00 PM 1ST A-2ND B
2:00 PM 1ST B-2ND A
5:00 PM 10U Championship

Video Profile: Rodney Miller (New Rens)

Name: Rodney Miller

AAU Team: New Rens

Position: Forward

Class: 2016

Breakdown: While many players enjoy accolades now Miller might have the last laugh down the road. His potential is tremendous and untapped. Right now he’s a true force on defense and developing on the offensive end of the floor. Many scouts and analyst including myself like what they see in this 6'9 kid.

From The Director's Desk Feat. Kimani Young (New Heights)

Kimani Young (Director Of New Heights)

Players and coaches always get a chance to shine on Basketball Spotlight but we never hear from the guys that actually orchestrate the AAU process. Therefore we created From The Director’s Desk to give program directors a shot at expressing themselves.

From The Director’s Desk Feat. Kimani Young (New Heights)

BS: What was your goal when you moved over to New Heights?
KY: When I took over the leadership at New Heights, my goals were to impact kids’ lives outside of basketball. Help them achieve all their basketball goals while helping them become better people. I wanted to help prepare them for life after basketball. All the tools you need to be a successful adult, you can learn playing basketball as a kid. I truly believe that.

BS: What are some of your programs biggest achievements since joining this organization?
KY: I try not to get caught up in winning tournaments and things like that. We’ve won our share of events and that’s great for the kids but I’ve learned that winning is a small part of this journey. The most important thing to me is helping kids get to college. That’s the true satisfaction. When I can go to a college game and watch kids that have come through our program, that’s when I’m most gratified and proud.

BS: Discuss some of the challenges that come along with directing a big time program?
KY: I think the biggest challenge is trying to please everybody. In our business, coaches, kids and families are our bloodline and it’s hard to please every coach, every kid and every family. I try to do my best to make decisions that are in the best interest of the kids first. Everyone and everything else comes second, including myself. I’ve always said no one is bigger than the program. If you’re not a good coach and a good role model for kids, you can’t be here. If you’re not a good kid and you’re not coachable, you can’t be here. That’s just the bottom line with us.

BS: Where do you consider you guys ranked in terms of basketball programs in New York?
KY: I leave that up to guys like you to decide but Coach Book said something to me a long time ago and I never forgot it. He said that this game is cyclical. One year New Heights is the toast of the town, Next year it could be LI Lightning, then it could be Gauchos, so on and so forth. The key is to stay relevant. I think we’ve done a good job of staying relevant. I’m content with that.

BS: How do you juggle the hats up being a director and coach?
KY: When I’m coaching is when I’m most comfortable but I’ve grown into the AD role. We have a great team of people here at New Heights that lighten the load on me so I’m fortunate to be doing what I do for a living. To have a full-time job working with young people and basketball is a dream come true for me. I’m sure there are thousands of people like me across the country doing what I do on a volunteer basis. So for that I’m thankful for New Heights.

BS: Talk about some of the off the court entities that make New Heights a complete program.
KY: Our overall program is called College Bound and what that means is that every kid that comes through our program will get to college. Under College Bound, we have HS Assist and College Assist. HS Assist is the process of helping all of our MS kids and families find the right fit for HS. We have an intensive 16 week program where we help prepare the kids for HS entrance exams, assist them in filling out HS applications as well as offer them individualized tutoring as needed. College Assist is the process of helping our HS kids find the right fit both academically and athletically through their recruitment process. We offer year round SAT prep to all of our student-athletes and we work closely with their high schools to ensure our kids are on time to graduate and qualify under NCAA regulations.

BS: You had a couple of big time players that have come through your program, discuss the magnitude and grind of managing a big time player?
KY: We’ve had some highly ranked and recruited kids come through our program recently and there are some huge responsibilities that come with that. We’ve made a point to be just as, if not more demanding of them than any other kids in the program. You know first-hand, we were hard on guys like Jayvaughn Pinkston (Villanova), Corey Edwards (George Mason), Devon Collier (Oregon State), Jermaine Sanders (Cincinnati) and Ashton Pankey (Maryland). We like to think that only helps them prepare for what’s ahead of them when they get to college. I think a lot of coaches and programs underestimate how important that is. When those highly recruited players get to college, they are still representing you and your program and that’s how you build relationships that can either help or hurt the kids that are coming out of your program behind them. We’ve worked hard to develop helpful relationships with college coaches that will last a long time.

BS: How can you make New Heights into the top basketball program in New York?
KY: I don’t know what that means… Is there an award or a check that comes with that? Lol. In all seriousness, we work hard at putting competitive teams together, playing against the top competition in the country, coaching them hard and seeing what happens. That’s all that matters to us. Winning is a product of doing things the right way. You have these fly by night coaches and programs chasing something that doesn’t exist. I’ve heard programs set goals to win the Nationals, win Vegas, win Basketball Spotlight, etc. Okay, what happens after that? You still have to continue to get better, you still have to continue to work, you still have to improve as a coach and as an organization. This journey is never ending and that’s what people don’t keep in perspective.

BS: Why should a young player want to make New Heights their future home?
KY: If I’m a parent and I have a child that wants to use basketball as a tool to get to a good HS, a good college, graduate from college and become a productive member of society, I’m going to look for an organization with leadership and coaches that have done those things. There are a handful of programs in New York City that offer what I just described and those are the programs that kids and families should want to be associated with. I’m not going to take my daughter to learn how to play the piano and the instructor has no fingers. That’s the blind leading the blind. And in a lot of cases here in New York City, that’s exactly what it is. The blind leading the blind!!!

AGame 13U Championship Recap: "Money Team" Earns New Threads

CBC Victorious Again

#1 Connecticut Basketball Club defeated East Coast Elite 57-44 to win the AGame Super Shootout 13U Championship. Congratulations to the “Money Team” for winning another championship.

Team Roster
Azar Swain
Chaylyn Martin
DeAndre Leslie
Ismail Charles
Jaecee Martin
Jared Simmons
Kareem Harvin
Raheem Solomon
Shyhiem Hicks
Vincent Ruff

Head Coach: Reggie Hatchett
Ast Coach: Keyshawn Narcisse
Ast Coach: James Simmons

New Spotlight Exclusive: Harry Giles Best 8th Grader In America!

Harry Giles just received “The Stamp” but after looking at his new mixtape from Dunk Dog’s Spencer Pulliam. It’s safe to say he’s my pick as the #1 8th Grader in America period. I know we just featured his highlights but this reel is so hot we had to be the first to release it. Introducing Harry “The Truth” Giles.

AGame Super Shootout 12U Championship Recap: #2 KSK Knocks Off #1 Team IZOD

King Street Kings Came Up Big

King Street Kings defeated Team IZOD 59-58 to win the AGame Super Shootout 12U Championship. Congratulations to KSK’s players and coaches for their big victory.

Roster
Atiba Taylor
Will Yarbrough
Luther Muhammad
Tristan Issac
Neo Powell-Erving
Chauncey Sterling
Moses Brown
Nazreon Reid

AGame Super Shootout 11U Championship Recap: #9 Team Takeover Prevails

Team Takeover Takes Championship

Team Takeover defeated WPC to win the AGame Super Shootout 11 and Under Championship. Congratulations to Team Takeover’s coaches and players for their huge weekend.

Team Roster
Raphe Ayres
Justice Ellison
Jordan Hairston
Jaylin Hunter
Ryan Van Kirk
Carsten Kogelnik
Latre Kornegay
Cole Matthieson
Casey Morsell
Hunter Stewart
Jaylen Cole-Williams
Terrance Williams

Basketball Spotlight Texas Report: Battle Of Big Cities Houston vs. Dallas Class of 2016 Top Performers Part 2 (By Paul Miranda)

Carson Edwards MVP (Houston Defenders Elite)

This tournament gave us b’ball fanatics in the Lone Star State an early peak at what the two mega-metropolitan cities talent look like in the classes of 2016 and 2017. Although we were expected to see some teams get completely overwhelmed, instead we were treated with some pleasant surprises. However, some of last year’s stars started this new season stronger than how they finished last year. All in all, the crowds were huge and the games were great, but at the end, the Houston side drove away with the title.

MVP
Carson Edwards #3 Defenders Select 2016
The ManChild’ was at his best, attacking and creating havoc for the opposing teams. He went hard on both ends of the court showing why he has been one of the top backcourt players in the state since the 4th grade and he doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.

Top Performers Part 2

A.J. Lawson #32 Texas PRO
‘NastyRoc’ was firing it up from everywhere, dunking all tournament long, gave many sweet moves to get to the rack, and had many block parties every game. He also got the most oohs and aahs from the crowds.

Josh Parrish #1 Texas Elite
‘TooReal’ was all that and more, displaying a much improved jumpshot that was on the mark all tournament-long. His slashing abilities were still second to none. An awesome defender and can bang with the best of them including the bigs’. This 6’2” stud averaged 20 per game and could have easily been mentioned as MVP.

Cam McGriff #32 DFW Defenders Select
The Eraser’ was at his best again, jamming in his own block party, dunking a few, displayed a nice midrange jumper’ that was more than impressive. He also showed off a nice interior passing game to boot. This kid is bringing it tournament after tournament.

D.D. Henry #1 Team Bizness
This point guard did it all for his team, breaking defenses down was no problem, knocking down big shots from anywhere on the floor was even easier, defending the opposing team’s top player wasn’t a hard for him to contain either. He rebounds, jumps passing lanes, and runs his team to perfection.

D.J. Jemerson #6 Gulf Coast Blue Chips
The Big Fella’ was flying around the floor every game, crashing the boards, hitting the floor for loose balls, and finding every way possible to come up the ball and make a play that kept giving his team possessions. I was extremely impressed by his stamina and energy, he made plays on both ends of the court.

J.R. Adams #13 Houston Defenders
This young man was on the offensive end stronger than ever. He hit long range shots, midrange shots, and even penetrated to the ‘hole’ with extreme ease throughout. This ‘dude’ makes plays for his teammates too and I enjoyed watching this young man play.

Robert Martin #1 Texas PRO
This point guard has settled into the captain of the ship role and doesn’t show any signs of letting anyone else drive his team. He dropped some dimes that had us all wondering how great his potential can be. He continued to hit big shots after big shots. He rebounded the rock as if he was one of the bigs’.

Basketball Spotlight Texas Report: Battle Of Big Cities Houston vs. Dallas Class of 2016 Top Performers Part 1 (By Paul Miranda)

Chris Owens (Texas Elite)

This tournament gave us b’ball fanatics in the Lone Star State an early peak at what the two mega-metropolitan cities talent look like in the classes of 2016 and 2017. Although we were expected to see some teams get completely overwhelmed, instead we were treated with some pleasant surprises. However, some of last year’s stars started this new season stronger than how they finished last year. All in all, the crowds were huge and the games were great, but at the end, the Houston side drove away with the title.

Top Performers Part 1

Chris Owens #00 Texas Elite
The 6’3” big fella’ was HUGE on the boards and in the paint, he was a force that many did not want to challenge. He also found ways to position himself for several putbacks and also showed a couple dazzling but strong post moves.

J.J Caldwell #23 Houston Defenders Select 2016
This point guard is arguably the best in the Lone Star State and this weekend he showed why. So many breath-taking dimes’ dropped off, so many defensive stops, so many perfectly timed long range jumpshots, so many of the RIGHT plays that put his teammates in easy positions to score. Kid does it all and you can tell he loves doing it.

Brandon Conwright #15 Team Bizness
This young man showed great poise getting to the cup on many occasions. He worked his deadly jumpshot from all over the floor. I was impressed with his ability to run in transition and finish baskets off strong. His defensive skills were tough and tenacious.

Tristen Wallace #6 DFW Defenders Select
The 6’2’’ Boss’ was big in both of his team’s games. He scored at will, he defended inside and outside, he rebounded the ball, and he dropped off a few dimes that wooed the crowd on several occasions. Boss’ ran the floor with authority throughout the tournament.

Chad Bowie #4 Gulf Coast Blue Chips
This youngster transferred in from the Sunshine State of Florida. His poised demeanor handling the ball and knocking down big shots were off the chain. He showed outstanding defensive skills and had outrageous playmaking abilities that gave his opponents fits. He’s the son of former NBA player Anthony Bowie but he’s making a name for his own in Texas.

Terrance Ferguson #1 Texas Lightening
The 6’3” wing was letting it fly throughout this tournament, hitting shots from downtown every game. He gave his team some timely quality rebounds that helped his team stay in games. Although his team struggled in this tournament, he was by far the lone consistent standout for his team.

Sean Shanklin #23 Texas Elite
This youngsta’ packed a mean jumper that literally killed his opponents. He was big on boards in the clutch. He was ‘charlie Hustle’ in every game, diving for loose balls, sacrificing his body to take charges. Plays the game as fundamentally as possible but has a flare to him that made me enjoy watching him.

Jordan Houston #25 Houston Defenders Select
This sharpshooting guard was hitting on all cylinders in this tournament. Kid has range and can hit from behind the arc like its nothing. His defensive skills put him in position to score on many breakaways. He also showed that he knows how to get to the hole’ with authority.

Diary Of A Baller: Tyus "Kid Mamba" Battle (Edison, NJ) Entry #27

What’s up basketball world, it was not a big basketball week but it still felt like a long week.

Monday after school I got a few shots up at the gym. My dad was still angry at me from the game before so he was bringing the game up every time we spoke. Even though I might get annoyed by it, I always know he is doing it for me and wants me to learn from my mistakes.

Tuesday and Wednesday I did not go to the gym at all because I was spending time doing homework and finishing up my essays and application forms for Gill St. Bernard. Wednesday my dad and my little brother also went to see the Knicks and the Cavaliers play. They were both excited because they got really good seats from a friend, and when I mean really good seats I mean 280 dollar seats. Khalif was especially excited because he doesn’t go see a lot of games. After the game my dad told me that the atmosphere at the garden was completely different now that Jeremy Lin is there and because they are winning consistently. I watched the game at home, and the Knicks ended up winning, which was good.

Thursday I went to go see Gill St. Bernard play St. Patrick’s and it turned out to be a very good game. Gill St. Bernard started out very slow, were not executing and were turning the ball over. The score at half time was 25 to 29. In the second half they came out much sharper and began to pull away from St. Patrick’s. Gill St. Bernard ended up winning by around 15 points, so next game they will need to play Cardinal McCarrick from Perth Amboy.

Friday I had a half a day, so my mom picked us up but had to quickly drop us off at the barber shop because she had to work a double shift, which means she would be working from 1 in the afternoon to 3 in the morning so I know she was not happy. After our usual Friday practice my coach took my brother and I to watch St. Josephs play CBA. We got there at half time and St. Joes was up 21 to 9 and the gym was packed. During the second half St. Joes were slowing the ball down a lot and CBA started to make a little come back. They decided to change their pace in the fourth quarter and finished the game winning by 15 or 16.

Saturday our school team had our semifinal game against St. Matthias, and it was my teammate Josh’s first game back. He and my other teammate Marcus stepped it up, Josh knocking down a buzzer beater to end the half and Marcus who was hot from the field, only missing one or two shots. I think we played well as a team and we should definitely win this championship next Saturday. If so it would be the first championship trophy in our schools history. After the game I went to watch Gill St. Bernard’s second state tournament game against Cardinal McCarrick. Once again they started off a little slow in the first quarter, but then picked it up in the second quarter and finished up the game winning by close to 30.

Sunday I was supposed to go down to Pennsylvania because the rest of my team was playing in the A Game tournament, however I wasn’t able to because my dad had to fly up to Las Vegas for work. So instead I went to the gym in the morning with my brother. We got up a few shots but mostly worked on ball handling and making moves to the basket. After our workout all I really did was relax for the rest of the day, which was good because I don’t get a lot of chances to do this.

It’s getting late so I’m going to sign out. March 15th I’m going to be taking the Terra Nova Test for school, so I will be studying all week.

This is Tyus Battle signing out.

Peace

Harry Giles Receives "The Stamp"

6'7 Harry Giles Earns "The Stamp"

We told you guys about Harry Giles two years ago when the then lanky 12 year old showed dominance at the DC Assault tournament. Now Giles has become one of the top prospects in the country. Harry showed he was worth the attention while leading Team Felton to the AC Showcase Championship last year.

Basketball Spotlight is proud to extend our “Stamp” to the North Carolina product. “The Stamp” is giving to a player that has performed in our events that we feel will be a college basketball star and probable NBA player. Many top players have received “The Stamp” in the past including Tyreke Evans, Lance Stephenson Mike Gilchrist and most recently Perry Dozier and Tyus Battle.

Congratulations to Harry Giles and his family for joining this elite club of players. Remember this is just the beginning keep working hard.

Fans Voting Poll: Who Is The Best 8th Grade Point Guard In The Country? (Cast Your Vote)

The rankings are always done by the analyst and scouts but Basketball Spotlight loves to keep the fans involved. We feel the fans should have some say so in who they feel are the best. Therefore for the next few weeks we will be developing different categories for you guys to have some say. Our first category will be the Class of 2016 best point guard. We have collected the Top 5 point guards and their highlight clips and would like you to vote on who you think is the best.

Derryck “Houdini” Thornton (Simi Valley, CA): His style and flair has made him a fan favorite. He’s dazzled crowds on the West Coast and the national scene. Right now he’s rocking out with Cali Styles and probably with Cali Supreme 16’s when the spring rolls around.

Alani “Showtime” Moore (Germantown, MD: Moore has demonstrated the will to win for years on the circuit. They last two years he’s guided DC Assault to an incredible record while also dominating the Basketball Spotlight tournaments and showcases. He has truly lived up to his nickname.

Aaron Augustin (Atlanta, GA): “Double A” definitely has been taking charge like a battery. Last summer he quarterbacked the Georgia Stars into a deep tournament run and recently led his middle school to an undefeated season. Right now he’s representing the Peach State to the fullest.

Bryce “Capo” Aiken (Randolph, NJ): Not many on this list have won more than “Capo”. He has a bunch of state titles and Spotlight banners. He has been in several wars and usually comes out on top. He’s by far one of the smartest players to ever come through a Spotlight event.

Jashaun Agosto (Seattle, WA): Don’t let the commercials and TV talk shows fool you because this You Tube sensation can really ball. He reportedly had his talent on full display during the 13U Nationals in Memphis. Many defenders probably thought it was all a joke before they ran up on Agosto.


PLEASE CAST YOUR VOTE IN THE RIGHT COLUMN AT THE TOP OF THE PAGE.
THE WINNER OF THE CONTEST WILL RECEIVE A SPECIAL GIFT FROM BASKETBALL SPOTLIGHT.

3rd Annual J.E.M. All Star Classic Returns August 18th

J.E.M. All Star Classic (Class Of 2015)
The 3rd Annual J.E.M. ALL STAR CLASSIC featuring the top 8th Graders (Class 2016) on the East Coast will take place August 18th. Basketball Spotlight will select the Top 24 players to do battle in an all star setting. This event has become the premier game for the top players before entering high school. Don't miss the action. We are currently gathering more sponsors for this year ending celebration. If you are interested in becoming at sponsor for this event please feel free to contact Mike Melton at Basketballspotlight@hotmail.com. All proceeds will be used for the event or in a scholarship fund we are developing.

August 18, 2012• NJ North Stars vs. NJ South Stars
• Regional North All Stars vs. Regional South All Stars

Video Profile: Malik Crowfield (New Orleans, Louisanna)

Name: Malik Crowfield

AAU Team: Dunk Dog Elite

Position: Combo Guard

Class: 2016

Breakdown: Crowfield was an integral part of the LA Team Select back to back AAU Nationals Championships. During the 2011 13u/7th Grade AAU D-1 NATIONAL CHAMPION LA Select Team, where he lead all scorers in the both the final 4 game(28pts) & championship game (24pts), averaging 17.6ppg throughout the National Tournament. He plays either guard spot very well and should explode on the 14U scene after playing a full season of varsity basketball season at Riverside Academy. I really believe he might be one of the most underrated guards in the country.

"The Big Show" At It Again! (The Dancing Ref)

"The Big Show" has been blowing the whistle for years and even toured with the Harlem Globetrotters. He’s definitely the most animated referee I ever came across. Check out some of his antics while refereeing the Basketball Spotlight Baby Baller Super Showcase.