Skillcase Analysis: Guerrero can do it all on the grade level. His game does need a little polishing but it’s nothing that I’m Possible Training can’t work out. Once everything comes together for this youngster he could become a legit scoring machine from the wing position.
Skillcase Analysis: Foote is a big kid that possesses good hands. Once his body fills out hopefully with a growth spurt to match, I can see him becoming a serviceable post player. Right this baby baller needs to keep working hard like he did during the training session and keep conditioning as a top priority.
Skillcase Analysis: There was no match for Reid inside during the Super Skillcase. He swatted shots like King Kong knocked down planes. He also was willing to show off his ball handling skills by pushing the pill and creating opportunities. If he continues to focus on this area of his game there’s no telling the level this kid could reach. He has a chance to be a national recruit one day with hard work.
The Basketball Spotlight Clash For The Cup is right around the corner. This event is our second leg on the Road To The Grand Finale and has become one of our most high profile events. February 2nd and 3rd the top teams in the country will gather in Neptune, NJ to fight for the right to take home the cup. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this serious action. Only 12 teams per age group. (8 For 5th Grade)
Event: Basketball Spotlight Clash For The Cup Place: Neptune, NJ Price: $375 (3 Game Guarantee) Ages: 5th Grade Thru 8th Grade
Skillcase Analysis: Carey can definitely go! He played either guard spot effectively at the Super Skillcase. While in point guard mode he spotted cutting teammates and dropped a few dimes in transition. When it came to scoring he had a smooth rhythm and seemed to glide when the rock was in his hands. He traveled to AC to get better and get Spotlight’s attention and he seems to have accomplished his mission.
Skillcase Analysis: The suburban New Yorker is a slick passer and gets his opponents and teammates to play at his pace. His feel for the game stands out and he should be a point guard to look at in the future. I’m looking forward to watching this guard in his comfort zone on his AAU squad. They will be attending a few Spotlight events.
The AAU season has come to an end but not before making some noise. There have been some interesting developments over the past few weeks that could shake up things going into next season. Here's a look at what's buzzing in the streets.
ECE-NJABC Moves To Team IZOD?
That’s right the #10 5th Grade Team in America has moved over to Team IZOD. Word also has it that at their first tryout they had some of the top 6th Grade players in the region in attendance. Seems like their trying to follow the same format as the “Supreme Team”. We will definitely keep you guys posted as this interesting story develops.
Team Scan Snatches NY Trio
Team Scan has made another move to get back to the top of the 8th Grade field. Word from NY is that TS has snatched Team ABBO talented tri of Paul Person, Keshaun Ellis and Tyresse Whitaker. Sean Morris from Connecticut will also be making the trip to the Bronx, NY based squad. This move if true will definitely have TS back into the thick of things.
Pierre Louis To Team Takeover?
The saga of Nate Pierre Louis continues, now sources tell me that the high scoring guard has decided to run with the mighty Team Takeover. This move might send TT over the top. Now point guard Aaron Thompson has another bona fide scorer to feed. Wow. We will definitely keep you guys posted as this story develops.
The complete Skillcase gallery with over 1500 images by renowned sports photographer Lucas Noonan is now online. These portrait quality images are 20x the resolution of smartphone pictures. They are great for holiday cards, Fatheads, or posters!
Hello Basketball World! How is everyone doing? High School basketball season is starting soon! And Team Final AAU season is right around the corner! Can’t wait!
Last Sunday night my Team Final Yellow played against Team Final Blue for the semi-finals at Competitive Edge. We lost by a few points, but it was a great game and both teams played to win and played their best. On Monday I had to finish two book reports that were due on Wednesday. Monday night I got up an hour’s worth of shots at a local high school gym with my dad. We did a lot of conditioning too. On Tuesday morning I worked out with Obe before school. My mom always buys me a Wegman’s bacon with egg sandwich afterwards. They are the best! Thanks mom for taking me to Obe’s so early in the morning before school!
I was off from school on Thursday and Friday because our teachers were attending a Teacher’s convention. Thursday night I played at the Coaches vs. Cancer all-star game at Plymouth Whitemarsh H.S. Thank you, Mr. Frank Murphy, for a great night of basketball for a good cause. I won the Sportsmanship Award for the game I played. The competition was great and everyone had a fun time. It was a great way to raise funds for cancer research.
On Friday morning I worked out with Obe. The entire hour we worked on strengthening our core. It was very hard, but I enjoyed it. Friday night I had a long work-out with Coach Derrick Mims. We worked on minimizing your dribble on the fast break. He told us that everywhere we go, whether it’s a game or practice, we should always compete and compete hard.
On Saturday my friend Talek Williams and I were invited by one of my favorite coaches, Coach Dre, to join members of Team Reading at the Jr. Funsport League in Brooklyn, NY. We beat the New York Dragons by over 20 points. I had 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. My friend, Talek, was named Player of the Game for Team Reading. The next game was harder because we played against New Rens/Riverside. We beat them by 10 points. After that game I was named Player of the Game for Team Reading. So we both came back to Allentown feeling good!
We should always remember that basketball and other things that we do are great, but we should always put GOD first in our lives!
See you guys next week!
Skillcase Analysis: Being rated in the Top 20 in America of everyone’s website didn’t make Taylor slack off in Atlantic City. He went extremely hard during the training session and also showed some grittiness during game play. At the Super Skillcase he showed his versatility by playing all five positions and producing. He did his usual scoring and dishing but he also led his team in rebounding. I loved the fact that he showed this mush effort considering his national rep.
Skillcase Analysis: Beard used the Super Skillcase to improve his skills and introduce himself to the rest of the region. He has blazing speed and the ability to drain the deep ball. He’s crafty and sees the floor with the best of them. It will be interesting to see what team in the region scoops up this young cub.
Skillcase Analysis: Harris showed his range inside the Atlantic City High School gym. He also got anywhere he wanted on the floor against the top competition. He on the other end, he played good on the ball defense and used his uncanny long arms to make deflections in the passing lanes. This budding youngster will be suiting up with CJ Hawks.
Skillcase Analysis: Greaves showed his willingness to learn during the skills session in Atlantic City. During game play he was eager to show his point guard skills. Richie was unselfish for most of this event. He was looking to get his teammates involved even if he was the best option on the floor. It’s definitely refreshing to see a youngster playing this style at such a young age.
Skillcase Analysis: “Mayweather “ continued to show his dominance once again from the point guard slot. He shook the boots off of defenders and scored over the shot blockers in the lane. He’s unselfish by nature which is great trait for a point guard. I would like to see him take a few more outside shots to keep the defense honest and also move the ball more on the perimeter to keep the offense in motion.
Skillcase Analysis: Patterson had to be the most physically dominant player in this event. His strength and athleticism helped him score, play defense and rebound like a man child. I can see that Tristan has been working on his skill set lately because he was able to make more plays while facing the basket. He even pushed the rock up the floor a few times like he was playing the point guard position. He will only increase CBC’s chances of being one of the top teams in the country.
Skillcase Analysis: The gentle giant made his Spotlight debut with a splash. He can be considered a problem on both ends of the floor with his height and mass. Jenkins also has a soft touch and the knack of scoring inside. The opposition will need to worry down the road as Jenkins matures into a quality post player. He was a joy to watch and I look forward to seeing more of him.
Skillcase Analysis: Pierre Louis was one of the hardest workers in the gym. Josh has now stepped out of the shadow of Nate “The Great”. The lightning quick point guard used a low handle and explosiveness to get anywhere on the floor. This kid was a one man press break and used athleticism to finish off at the rim. Look out America, Josh is coming.
Skillcase Analysis: Hildago continues to show his improvement as a lead guard. He was very assertive and displayed some skills from the training session that stood out. He seems to have found the confidence to perform well on a high level. Now hopefully he will take this new swagger with him on the AAU circuit with a new improved Team Final 2018 squad.
Skillcase Analysis: Drayton was a pleasant surprise from the Potomac Valley. He has the smoothness to glide to the rim in transition or when slashing through the lane. He’s still a little raw when setting up moves to create space but its good not be to be a total package in the 8th Grade. His size and versatility makes him a promising prospect in which high level high school coaches will be reaching out for.
Skillcase Analysis: “Big Smoove” stayed true to his name. As soon as you peg Williams to play under the basket he shows you his ability to perform like a guard. He runs the floor very quickly and enjoys dishing the rock. Williams also shows he understands how to break down defenders with dribble moves. But don’t be mistaken he will still stick his head inside the paint and cause damage. If Terrence uses the I’m Possible Training drills at home they will further his perimeter development.
Skillcase Analysis: Raymond really showed he was willing to learn by working very hard during the skill session. I haven’t seen Bethea on the hardwood in a few years. The improvements in his game are so vast that I didn’t recognize him on the floor. His confidence enables him to make difficult plays on the floor and launch his soft jump shot. Now he must work on getting stronger to take care of the pill when handling in traffic.
Skillcase Analysis: This kid had to lead the Skillcase in scoring. He not only has a nose for the ball but this youngster is a magnet. If he wasn’t grabbing rebounds for putbacks he was running the floor and receiving the pill in the right spot. He scored primarily around the basket with strong moves and simply out working the opposition. I can see him being a serious glue player for any team down the road.
Skillcase Analysis: Long performed so well we had to place him another squad to even things up. He’s stretching out physically and he used this length to his advantage. He scored easily over smaller defenders while getting into the lane at the blink of an eye. His slashing game will be one to watch for years to come.
Skillcase Analysis: During most of his first game Curto performed as the best player on the floor. He had it all clicking; outside shot, finishing in traffic, mid range floater and court vision. He also had enough wiggle to get rid of defenders. I like this kids spice and the eagerness he showed when battling some of the top players in the class.
Skillcase Analysis: Boykin has extended his on the perimeter. He was eager to show off his three point range and ability to attack off the bounce. This is a good sign because he doesn’t know where he might max out in terms of size. Now he should look at working his perimeter defense (lateral foot speed) so he can defend smaller, quicker guards and forwards. Taking home some of the drills and techniques he learned at the Super Skillcase will begin the process.
Skillcase Analysis: During the skill session DJ showed he could hang especially with the ball handling. Mitchell has what it takes to be a big time prospect. He’s a fluid wing guard with enough handle to get a clean look when he wants. He demonstrated this talent with a fade away jumper Kobe Bryant style. Mitchell runs with Team Takeover therefore we look for him to be a bona-fide star down the road. DJ Mitchell is a name to know.
Skillcase Analysis: Thompson backed up his rep as one of the top point guards in America. He puts constant pressure on the defense while spoon feeding cutting teammates. It’s nearly impossible to keep him out the lane because of his wicked handle. He understands that his outside needs work therefore he doesn’t launch jumpers carelessly. He’s a coaches and teammates dream. This kid has been a winner on every level.
Skillcase Analysis: Samuels performed well while nursing a leg injury. He was able to contribute along the baseline and knockdown the face up jumper. Due to his injury he wasn’t as explosive as he has been in other events but he at 75% is better than most players at full throttle. Now he must continue to work on his perimeter skills including ball handling, shooting and creating off the dribble.
Skillcase Analysis: Malik worked tirelessly with the trainers and he took that momentum into his game play. The Orange Nation has a good young prospect in Zachery. He has a natural feel for the position and very creative on the offensive end. He has a scoring knack to his game and will be able to finish off plays better once he body develops. I see a lot of bright things in Malik’s future. The Syracuse coaches need to keep an eye on this kid since he’s in their back yard.
Skillcase Analysis: In his final game Clarke got over a slow start and lit up the net for the rest of the afternoon. He has gotten better at breaking down with double moves but his bread and butter continues to be his ratchet. I also like how he’s improving his conditioning and body. If he continues this improvement going forward he will be just fine in the future. Working with I’m Possible trainers could help him out moving forward.
Skillcase Analysis: Martin made one of the biggest splashes on the Super Skillcase. This kid started his young career as a defensive specialist but has improved his offensive game immensely. He attacked at will and looked very comfortable taking over. The “Black Widow” also locked down on defense and hit the glass. His willingness to get better will continue to race his stock and overall ranking when it’s all said and done. Look out Chaylynn has arrived.
Skillcase Analysis: I didn’t realize Jamir was such a hard worker until I saw him during the training session. Moultrie is a combo guard in every sense of the word. He combines to the ability to score with the art of play making. He scores the rock in the flurries either with pull up jumpers or strong finishes at the tin. It was a joy to watch him battle toe to toe with Jamir Harris. I look forward to seeing them go at it during the season.
The Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Preseason Top 10 is listed below. This list was compiled from team expectations, key player additions and key player losses. The Road To The Grand Finale is long so we expect this list to change a few times during the season.
Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Preseason Top 10
1. CBC: The additions of Jermaine Samuels and Tristan Patterson will make this squad a tough out for anyone. This is their last chance to capture that elusive Grand Finale banner. The journey begins at the Tip Off Classic.
2. Team Final: The reigning Grand Finale champs have added some size to an already tough roster. Now we will see how the handle being the team that everyone wants to beat. They are also Tip Off Classic bound.
3. Team Takeover: TT brings Final Four experience into the season along with some of the top prospects in the region. I also hear they might be adding a hired gun from NJ to their roster. We will see December 1st and 2nd.
4. St. Michaels: Don’t be surprised if this squad makes a deep run for the Grand Finale crown. They return several players with 8th Grade experience and they will be looking to overtake the field.
5. DC Assault: Oh yes DC Assault is back and they have some loaded weapons. Super guard Jamir Moultrie will team up with Chris Lykes and possibly Trevon Duval to form one of the top backcourts in America.
6. Team ABBO: They have a trio of guards that can stand with the best in the region. Now it’s time for them to expand off of their AAU National success of last summer.
7. Playaz Basketball Club: Just when it appears that PBC’s cupboard is empty, in steps “The Terminator” and Marcus McClary. This dynamic duo is talented enough to lead PBC back to the Grand Finale final four.
8. Expressions: Shyeim Hicks moved to the X and joins a talented group of players. The last time Expressions ran on the Spotlight circuit they won the Grand Finale. Can lightning strike again?
9. New Heights: Word out of NYC is that this squad has brought together a talented bunch. Now it’s time for them to show and prove on the stage.
10. Milbank: These boys will be back in the mix once again. They will have a full season with their entire roster so it should be interesting.
The Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Preseason Top 10 is listed below. This list was compiled from team expectations, key player additions and key player losses. The Road To The Grand Finale is long so we expect this list to change a few times during the season.
Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Preseason Top 10
1. DC Assault: The National Champs will be the hunted on the Spotlight circuit. They have their full roster intact and will be looking to go all the way again. Can they handle the heat? We shall see.
2. Team IZOD: The newly formed “Supreme Team” was the talk of the late summer. They have their eyes set on dethroning DCA and winning the Spotlight Grand Finale crown. They will probably meet up at the Clash For The Cup.
3. Riverside Rens (Council): New Rens made their presence felt at the AAU Nationals by finishing in the Top 10. Now they will have to show they are worthy of staying in our Top 5 and racing towards the Grand Finale crown.
4. Mass Shooting Stars: The Cinderella squad of last season returns with a few new pieces. Now the cat is out the bag and they won’t be able to sneak up on any opponents. Their first true test will be at the Tip Off Classic.
5. ECE: The Division 2 National Champs also made it to the Grand Finale finals last summer. Now the squad from the “First State” will be looking to make some noise once again.
6. Wall 2 Wall: The pesky bunch from Allentown still feels they don’t get enough respect. Now W2W is determined to make the Grand Finale Final Four to show they belong.
7. Playtime Panthers: The Green and Black have added a few players from last year’s “Fly Guys” so they should be ready to reach the next level. I can’t wait to see their up and down style.
8. Riverside Rens (Lawrence): These boys will be trying to revamp and get back to the top. It will be interesting to see how they react to the 7th Grade level.
9. Team Final: TF has some new pieces including one of the top wing players in the Northeast. This improvement should push them up the ladder.
10. Team Melo: The B’More boys have a few bonafide players and we can’t wait to see them go. We know they will be going extremely hard.
The Basketball Spotlight 6th Grade Preseason Top 10 is listed below. This list was compiled from team expectations, key player additions and key player losses. The Road To The Grand Finale is long so we expect this list to change a few times during the season.
Basketball Spotlight 6th Grade Preseason Top 10
1. Team Nelson: TN won the last two Basketball Spotlight titles (MDC and Grand Finale). Now they return with a huge target on their backs. They have good guards and some of the best front court players in America. They will be looking to repeat as Grand Finale champs.
2. We R One: They #10 in the country return their core and might be adding a few more pieces. Their backcourt has to be one of the top in the country and they should be one of the early favorites to win the Basketball Spotlight Grand Finale crown.
3. ETU Select: This newly formed squad has some of the top talent in the Potomac Valley. They are loaded from top to bottom. Now it’s up to them to make everything click so they march towards to the Grand Finale crown.
4. Playtime Panthers: Yes the Black and Green will be back in action. They did have some player movement but Coach Mike should have them rebound greatly. We look for them to be in the mist of the heavy hitters.
5. Team Takeover: They had a very deep run at the AAU Nationals. Now they return this season in hopes of winning their first Spotlight banner. They had some player movement especially involving ETU Select.
6. CJ Hawks: The Hawks added one of the top combo guards in the region so their scoring average should shoot up. Now their expectations will be higher than in the past.
7. New Heights: They made some noise last year now they will be looking to move towards winning their first banner. They have some scrappy players and some talent.
8. Riverside Rens (Harris): This team showed some promise then vanished off the scene. Now Coach Harris will have them ready for some revenge. Don’t be surprised if they knock off a few teams ranked ahead of them.
9. Mid Jersey Mavericks: MJM seems to be ready for the big boys. They will get their chance at the at the Tip Off Classic.
10. Gauchos: The NYC Choz might be able to surprise some teams early on. They have an energetic forward that showed his worth at the Super Skillcase.
Skillcase Analysis: Nate Pierre Louis left his national rep at home when it came time to work in the skill session. He went full speed and paid full attention to the instructors. During game play showed why he should be considered one of the best scorers in America. He lit it up from all over the court and dropped some buckets using his off hand. Many scouts talk about his position but the fact remains that he’s a basketball player. After watching him this weekend a growth spurt is definitely on the way so the Class of 2017 needs to worry. He should see at least 6’4 which will be scary for the opposition.
Skillcase Analysis: Ransom spent most of the weekend driving to down the lane to the bucket. He was primarily a post player so it looked good to see him creating on the perimeter. I would like to see him show more confidence in his outside shot which should come after increased reps in practice and some more I’m Possible Training.
Skillcase Analysis: Harris came to AC to work. He was the first in line for each drill and gave a 110% for Mr. Lancaster. “The Terminator” let the game come to him which showed his maturity. When the gate opened he attacked by setting up teammates and scoring at will. He was a scoring guard before entering this event but he actually made the effort to get his comrades the rock. I also liked the way he worked during the drill sessions. He really wants to get better which is scary for the Class of 2017.
Skillcase Analysis: During the skill training Shyheim seemed to be soaking up the instructions like a sponge. Hicks is programmed to score the pill. He gets it done from the perimeter, or finishing at the cup. He also has the size to stick his head under the basket and grab some rebounds. His next body of work in terms of improving his game should be in the mid range area and finishing with his left hand. Many youngsters take the mid range game for granted but it’s actually one of the most important aspects of basketball.
Skillcase Analysis: Dickerson is still a long ways from a finished product but I like the improved aggression that he is showing on the floor. He likes shooting the face up mid range shot while beginning to tailor his game towards the perimeter. Once he body begins to develop we can get a better gauge on what type of prospect he could become. He benefited well from the I’m Possible training and should look to hook up with Micah and company more in the future.
Skillcase Analysis: Skill wise John is very textbook and showed he was advanced in terms of Lancaster’s drills. During the games Venturi scored when he had the opportunity but preferred to play defense and get teammates involved. On defense he played the passing lanes and stripped a few ball handlers. I do think a more aggressive offensive game will help round out this young lad’s game.
Hello Basketball World! My parents and I are continuing to pray for those families who have lost so much because of the devastating hurricane. We were very blessed since our 90 foot Poplar tree in our back yard was blown down by the wind, but didn’t hit our house.
Last Sunday I played my last game for the SCBL 10th – 12th grade fall league. Even though we lost, I had a solid game and played well defensively. Sunday night Team Final Blue team had a game at the Competitive Edge. We won and I had my first alley-oop pass that led to a dunk. This is how the play went. I got the outlet pass and dribbled up the right side of the court. I saw Nick Alikakos, our center, sprinting down the middle. We looked at each other and I motioned to him that I’m going to throw up the ball. Around the three-point line, I threw it toward the middle of the rim. Nick took two steps, caught the ball in the air and flushed it with one hand. The gym went wild! Nice dunk, Nick!
Monday through Thursday we didn’t have any power so I did a lot of homework and worked out with Obe a few times. Also, I was lucky to find two gyms that were open during the week so that I could practice with some of my friends.
On Friday, I “shadowed” at The Shipley School. I really enjoyed the opportunity to spend a day as a ninth-grader. Thank you, Coach Phil D’Ambrosio and The Shipley School Admissions Department for inviting me.
On Saturday, I went to an open gym at the Haverford School. I got a good run in for three hours and worked on my pick ‘n roll game. Thank you, Coach Leon Dales and Coach Henry Fairfax for having me.
I would like to shout out to Coach Chuck Rockmore and Coach Andre Cooper for being my coach and helping me develop my game over the past several years. These wonderful coaches have mentored and coached hundreds of youth basketball players in the Lehigh Valley. They have made such a positive difference in the lives of so many. Keep up the good work, Coach Rockmore and Coach Dre!
SkillcaseAnalysis: The baby of the Klatsky bunch is a certified gym rat so the skill work was not a problem. The youngster runs the point and has good court vision. He has years of basketball ahead and he’s an eager learner. Brandon will be suiting up with the young CJ Hawks squad so we will be able to monitor his progress closely.
SkillcaseAnalysis: Antione has trained with Lancaster on several occasions therefore he looked very well during the skill session. When game time came Antione took over the point guard controls for his team and didn’t look bad. His unselfish nature goes well with the position. He was able get teammates involved and see over the defense. In the future I would like to see him become a little more aggressive and hopefully develop that serious killer instinct that takes players to the next level. His potential could be scary.
Skillcase Analysis: Battle had his coming out party in AC. He took the skills from the heavy training session and incorporated them into his game play. His fluid shot was combined with the ability to groove past defenders. He understands the art of basketball is putting the ball in the cup and he does this easily. I like how he cuffed the rock when driving in traffic. He isn’t an all around stud as his older brother (Tyus) at the same age but he might be a better pure scorer than “Kid Mamba”. “Ole boy” here we go again.
Skillcase Analysis: Many feel that Harmon is the top 4th Grader in the country and I can see where the praise came from. During the Super Skillcase this baby baller dominated the 2020 field. He’s advanced in terms of poise, effectiveness and the ability to foresee the game a few plays ahead. He has a veteran game in a grammar school body. He adapted to the Lancaster's unique drills rather quickly. The Potomac Valley people are marveled by this kid’s game and now he has added Basketball Spotlight to his list of fans.
Skillcase Analysis: Gaffney scores enough to be considered a combo guard but the style of his game makes me scream PG. He has a lot of bounce and gets past defenders very easily. One of his main strengths is his range. Jalen pulled several jumpers from the cheap seats and had the accuracy to knock them down. Once he got hot it was easy to see why he won the 2011-12 Spotlight POY. This kid truly has a chance to be a special player. He should give us something to look forward to the next three seasons.
Skillcase Analysis: McIntyre was by far one of the best point guards in attendance regardless of class. During the skill session he was an eager learner while volunteering to demonstrate most of the drills. This kid plays to pass the rock to teammates. His old school court vision even caught a few teammates by surprised as one was nailed on the chin by one of his dimes. Like other young PG's, McIntyre will need to sharpen up his outside shot even though at a young age he can actually dominate a game without scoring a bucket. True definition of a floor general.
