Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1

Terrence "Big Smoove" Williams (Team Takeover)

The 7th Grade Division of the DMV Takeover had some great moments and gave us a first time champion. Here’s Part 1 of our Top Performers in this class. 

DMV Takeover 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1 

Terrance Williams – Power Forward – Team Takeover 
Williams seems to always control the paint against any team he plays. He isn’t the most athletic player on the floor but standing 6’3” he understands how to finish through contact or against longer more athletic players. He has added a nice short corner and high post elbow jumper to his game and he consistently gets to the line and converts his free throws. Big Smoove is a walking double – double. He had 10 points and 10 boards in the championship against Team Nelson and had gaudy numbers against BMore’s Finest in the semi with 17 points and 19 rebounds. Terrance has made a case that he is the top Power Forward in the region and one of the best in the country.

Tyler Brelsford – Point Guard – Team Takeover 
Brelsford is the “Maestro” of the Takeover team. Takeover has added more weapons around him so he has needed to score less this year but he understands when he needs to score versus being a facilitator. When Williams was absent in a pool play game he scored a team high 12 points. Tyler is one of the best passers in the class as he always plays with his head up and is trying to get you the ball in scoring position. He loves to throw the lead pass down the court so if you don’t get back on defense Takeover will be getting layups. He has become a more vocal leader as he is always directing traffic both on the offensive and defensive end. Tyler is a high IQ player that understands how to finish out games and he is a great free throw shooter. 

Jay Heath – Wing Guard – Team Takeover 
Heath is a long athletic wing with a high motor on both ends of the floor. He is deadly in transition and gets to the free throw at a high rate. In the half court he loves to slash to the basket and knows how to cut without the ball. He also has a nice mid-range jump shot and can shoot the floater. Heath can occasionally knock down the long ball and as he becomes more consistent from range he will be pretty much unstoppable. On defense he can guard either guards or forwards and he rebounds at a high rate for his position using his long wing span to his advantage deflecting balls and making getting steals in the passing lanes. 

Jahmir Young – Combo Guard – Team Takeover 
Young is Brelsford’s back court mate and they complement each other nicely. Jahmir does whatever the team needs him to do to get the win. He brings his fast attacking style on the offensive end as he loves to get to the basket and either finish with his floater or get all the way to the rim. He also has a nice mid-range pull up and can knock down the trey ball. On the defensive end he exudes energy and has the ability to guard taller guards and lock them up. He is considered a thief on defense as evident by all the steals he gets. 

Mekhi Long – Wing Forward – Team Takeover 
Long is a new addition to the Takeover team and he had a good weekend. Mekhi plays to his strengths which is his catch and shoot jump shot from mid-range out to the three point line. He makes his free throws and runs the floor hard so he can get easy transition layups. Long also rebounds very well for his position.

Mark Bradshaw – Wing Guard – Team Nelson 
Bradshaw looked to be in mid-season form during the championship. The game started out slow then the southpaw just ignited the show with 10 straight points. He had the floater dropping and was too much to handle in transition. This kid is definitely wired to score and single handily kept Team Nelson in the game. He also seems to have shot up a couple of inches since last season which makes him more of an intriguing prospect. 

Tariq Ingraham- Forward- Team Nelson 
Ingraham once again proved to be an inside force all weekend. Though productive he’s still a work in progress in terms of footwork, touch and overall post moves. The gentle giant backed defenders and got deep post position. Opponents need to take their shots now while he’s still developing because in a few years he’s going to be difficult to contain.

Kaseem Tolliver – Point Guard- Team Nelson 
The quarterback return from a broken ankle and guided his troops to the finals. The team just flows better when he at the controls. He sets the pace and makes sure the ball gets to the right person at the correct time. Once he gets in basketball shape he’s going to help this team return back to their dominate form of last year. 

Donte Scott – Forward- Team Nelson 
Some might look at Scott and see a player that gets out of control when driving at times but I see a young colt that when he gets it all together should be a blossoming prospect. I love his aggressiveness and willingness to play through mistakes. Defensively he does the job inside in terms of blocking shots and rebounding on the other end he’s slowly making that transition to the wing. 

Gerard Mungo – Wing Guard – BMore’s Finest 
Mungo is a tough hardnosed player that always plays at his pace. He is most effective when he receives the ball on the wing and attacks the basket finishing in a variety of ways often through contact drawing and one opportunities the old fashion way. If need be you can put the ball in Mungo’s hands for straight isolation plays as he can handle the ball really well and he makes good decisions with the ball in his hands. He can guard multiple positions and rebounds well for his position. Mungo has a great demeanor with a calming effect and his team seems to look to him when there is a pressure situation in the game. 

Che Evans – Wing Forward – BMore’s Finest 
Che is a long athletic forward that projects to be wing player. He possibly could have been one of the top 7th grade prospects in the gym this past weekend. Evans loves attacking the basket and finishing high at the rim and he has an improving jump shot as he knocked down a few long balls against Takeover in the semi. On the defensive end he has great timing and understands how to contest and block shots without fouling. He also can rebound at a high level if needed while being able to guard multiple positions due to his elite length and athleticism.

In The Spotlight: Ferrell Crowell (Team Glory)

Name: Ferrell Crowell 

AAU Team: Team Glory 

Position: Combo Guard 

Class: 2021 

Analysis: Ferrell plays with good energy on both ends of the floor. In transition he gets to the rim when he receives an advance pass while running the outside lane. Crowell can finish like a much larger player or draw the foul, he likes to slash from the wing and shoot the pull up or 3-ball with equal effectiveness which he proved in the biggest moments all weekend long. Extremely quick and powerfully compact Ferrell is hard to stop with the ball in his hand - he brings a certain type of toughness to the floor and imposes his will on both ends of the court and opponents. He is a consistent producer on a top team as a scorer. Showed why he is considered one of the best in class all weekend long regardless of the guard position he played.

In The Spotlight: Noah Charles (Team Glory)

Name: Noah Charles 

AAU Team: Team Glory 

Position: Wing Forward 

Class: 2021 

Analysis: If Zion Harmon is Batman, Noah Charles would be his Robin. Charles is a silky smooth wing that may not jump out at you while you watch - but check the score book and you will see his imprint on every game. Charles helped to lead Team Glory to the championship with dead eye marksmanship from behind the arch. Charles is a shooter whose stroke is a joy to watch; added scoring punch and a sturdy calming hand when it was needed most. An underrated ball handler he is able to penetrate just like an elusive guard but with his length can finish over bigger opponents with ease. Running one of the most sophisticated offenses we have seen at this level plus being well seasoned with national championship experience Charles showed all weekend why he and his teammates continue to rise to the top in champion situations.

Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 6th Grade Top Performers

Justin Lykes (Team Takeover)

The 6th Grade Division at the Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover had some fireworks and a great championship game. Here’s a look at the top performers from the weekend. 

DMV Takeover 6th Grade Top Performers 

Justin Lykes G – Team Takeover 
Lykes was a total monster in the finals, whenever MSE seemed to close the gap Lykes launched a trey bomb to widened things up. The stage was very pressure packed but he had ice veins in his body. He led the team in scoring and helped them take home the crown. Clutch play runs in his family as his older brother Chris starred for years on the Basketball Spotlight circuit.

Marquise Lopez, WG – Team Crossover Elite
One of the best athletes we have seen in some time, Lopez wowed us with his speed and ball-handling. A very confident player who carried his team during the event for stretches. A streaky shooter he is dangerous from the outside when hot; but was always a problem in the lane as his relentless attack on the paint had many scrambling to find a solution that never came. So strong in the upper body that he was able to finish through contact he was faster on the perimeter front point to point then most in the event. He also used this speed and quickness to be very disruptive on the defensive end averaging more than 4 steals per game. Freakish athletic ability with a scintillating handle and killer instinct lead us to believe we will be hearing from Marquise again in the near future. 

Ishmael Leggett, G – Team Takeover 
One of the most efficient scorers in all age groups, he is a flat out scoring machine. Wiry and with defenses geared to stop him, he still flourished no matter where is set up at on the court. Scoring over bigger defenders he plays the baseline like a seasoned veteran; often preferring to take the baseline drive into the defense and still finishing. His jumper may not have hit the rim all weekend long and showed ice water nerves as he hit crucial free-throws down the stretch in the championship game.

Jordan Toles, WF – MSE National Select
Jordan solidified his position as one of the top players in his class; making a strong case for the number one position. As a member of the National Select Team Toles excelled in all aspects throughout the weekend; weather he was dribbling 3 times taking it from the baseline to baseline to finish or posting in the half court he dominated for long stretches of the game. Showing 3-point range and a solid midrange game off the catch and bounce he continuously wowed the crowd. At one point everyone rose to their feet when he almost finished a breakaway with a dunk in the 6th grade age group. Jordan average 17pts and 12rebounds for the weekend leading his team to second place finish. 

Canin Reynolds PG- Team Takeover 
Reynolds was often scene barking heavy orders to his teammates and delivering them the ball at the correct spot. When the game got messy or out of control the tiny floor general calmed everyone down and refocused his group. His tough play on both ends of the floor proved to propel TTO to the title. The pass first point guard is definitely a throwback.

Montez McNeil, C – MSE National Select
Standing 6’3, six-grader McNeil has an old school back to the basket game that is refreshing to see. Patient enough to back his opponent down and to kick out and repost he is one of a dying breed. In a class by himself size wise he is still offensively raw – but the other aspects are right on par and scary to consider moving forward. A nasty shot blocker and rebounder he eats space in the lane; he runs well and is insanely athletic for being just 11-years old. Both parents played Division I and support McNeil in achieving his basketball goals. Strong as an ox, consider this being put on notice that M2 is officially making noise as a top prospect in the this class now and will be for years to come. Does the “S” on the chest remind to you of anyone? 

Mike Forbes, F- Team Takeover 
Forbes does the dirty work inside for TTO. He runs the floor hard and can finish even though he’s still developing his skills. This physical force knows how to carve out space for entry passes and for rebounding purposes. Playing with TTO will be great for his development down the road since he already has a high motor.

Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 5th Grade Top Performers Part 2

Henry Hall (Team Takeover)

The Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover was fantastic this past weekend and it gave us a chance to set our eyes on some new youngsters. Here’s part 2 of our look at the 5th Grade Top Performers. 

DMV Takeover 5th Grade Top Performers Part 2 

Henry Hall, PG, SG, F, C – Team Takeover 
The consensus overall #1 player on National Champion Team Takeover; Hall does it all for this group. He is just as likely to lead a break as he is to finish it. Just as likely to take his man off the bounce leaving him with only hopes of defending him man to man; as he is to space you with the dribble and hit from long range. Add in a very solid midrange game that includes pull ups. Hall plays the game at his pace and makes the game look easy; went up, over, and around opponents all weekend long showing very few weaknesses. A willing defender and rebounder, success has not caused Hall to work any less hard on being the best player and contributor in a multitude of areas needed by his team. Very unselfish with a sweet stroke, Hall was a joy to watch each time he took the court.

Elijah Hawkins, PG – Team Takeover 
Hawkins’ motor never stopped the entire weekend. The electrifying point guard from National Champions Team Takeover plays the game baseline to baseline; getting to the paint at will where only bad things happened for opponents. A solid team; they play at another level with the ball in Hawkins hands. A new age point who scores with relentless pressure on the defense while at the same time making his teammates happy and putting them in positions for success. Solid perimeter shooter with 3-point range Elijah is a leader amongst leaders; a true floor general.

Jalen Miller, PG – Maryland Playmakers 
Showed great prowess with the ball running both backcourt positions; involved his teammates the entire weekend while constantly attacking the hole. A solid 3-point shooter who scored in transition and in the mid-range area while acting as a facilitator – sometimes being a little to unselfish; a natural scorer who excelled even with defenses focused on stopping him. Team had a tough weekend but Millers skill set was obvious.

William Margaritas, SG – M.A.D.E Elite 
Combo Guard with a knack for scoring from the perimeter, impressed with back to back 20 point games; last of which he scored 25 in a close loss. A solid 3pt. shooter who can spaces the floor for his team. He finds unconventional ways to score around the rim, comfortable on offense playing both guard positions and works well off of screens. Equally effective on the catch-and-shoot William can get off shots without a great deal of space; excellent with his teammates. Strong combination of aggressive play and efficiency was shown all weekend as well as him being a good free-throw shooter; handle requires more work to play out front exclusively, but work ethic indicates he will do what it takes to get to this level.

Barry Evans, WF – Baltimore Elite 
Evans is a slashing scorer and good defender who makes the most of his scoring opportunities - A long and athletic swingman, Evans showed and array of offensive skills and potential all weekend long; contributing by filling lanes in transition, slashing to the rim, or pulling up in the mid-range area. As he continues to develop with his skills, he needs to become a much more assertive offensive player, learning to utilize his countless offensive tools especially in big game situations. His size and skill package make him a joy to watch and a terrific prospect for the next level.

Julian Reese, C – B’More Finest 
Julian is an active post player that is surprisingly skilled for his age; he loves contact and is a load in the low blocks. He is aggressive rebounding the ball on both ends of the floor. He is learning very quickly how to post up and use his size to his advantage; has excellent hands and throws a tremendous outlet pass already. Reese is an immense talent, but is far from a finished product. He has a great frame with long arms and quite a bit of bounce. He can step outside and face up and take his defender off the dribble. Loves the game and loves to compete. Comes from basketball bloodlines and will only continue to improve ~ we expect rapidly.

Trey English, PG – Baltimore Elite 
English has all of the tools that coaches love to see in a point guard. He has great strength and size for a point. Despite very solid build, he has the quickness to penetrate past defenders and get to the rim. He also shoots the ball well, extending out to three-point line and beyond. One of the toughest all-around players in the DMV for his age, Trey makes a living as a clutch shooter, playmaker and a lockdown defender; he is fantastic on-the-ball and refuses to let his man score on him. Has a wiry frame with long arms and is extremely athletic. Could be considered a top two as well; future combo guard with a very high ceiling due to skills and competition level.

Ahmad Harrison, PG – Bmore’s Finest 
Harrison did it all for Bmore’s Finest all weekend long; he handled, he scored, he defended. Long and athletic he used is size over smaller guards and out-quicked any big foolish enough to step out and try to guard him. Showing all around floor skills Harrison just looks like a basketball player; during the tournament we literally saw him play all five positions and played them well. Playing on a very well balanced team it is clear the Ahmad will be a future star being that he can score, handle, and defend to a very high level.

Christian Winborne, WF – Bmore’s Finest 
Another one of Bmore’s Finest interchangeable parts; Winborne cleaned the glass like a big and passed like a PG, while showing an ability to beat his man one on one and finished at the cup; with a knack for creating his own shot as well as doing it for teammates; each game Christian brought something different to the table affecting the game in positive ways. Any other team Christian is a primary scorer and a dangerous one at that – with the Finest he is multi-position weapon that showed he can do whatever the game necessitates for his team’s success.

Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 5th Grade Top Performers Part 1

Zion "The Lion" Harmon (Team Glory)

The Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover was fantastic this past weekend and it gave us a chance to set our eyes on some new youngsters. Here’s part 1 of our look at the 5th Grade Top Performers. 

DMV Takeover 5th Grade Top Performers 

Zion Harmon, PG, Team Glory 
What else can be said that already hasn’t about all-world guard Zion Harmon – a seasoned veteran of BBall Spotlight; Harmon again justified his title of best pound for pound middle school player in the country. Playing in both the 5th & 6th grade age groups Harmon scored like a trained assassin on both levels. Zion controlled the tempo versus the top teams in 5th grade in leading his Glory Team the championship versus teams that wanted to get into a track meeting. The suited up for National Select where he proved his naysayers wrong by acting as facilitator when needed having two games with 10+ assist while averaging double figure for the tournament. A 17-point 1st half outburst versus Takeover in the 6th grade championship exemplified why he is considered the best of the best nationwide.

Knasir McDaniel PG- Team Glory 
Many defenders try to slow McDaniels down and just get left in the dust. His feel for the game is beyond his years and he attacks pressure defenses while other guards retreat. He poise and big game attributes stood out in the finals against Team Takeover as he dominated the game from every aspect and helped his team capture their first banner. There’s no coach in the building that wouldn’t want this kid running the show for their squad. Big time winner with a heart of a lion.

Rasheed Dupree, PG – Annandale 
Tough, big, physical PG who battled every possession; coming to the event from Virginia Dupree matched up all weekend long against some of the toughest guards in country and held his own showing flashes of brilliance especially in the half court. Big enough to be a presence on the board he was able to take it off the glass and make the right decision. He took hits in traffic and still was able to get to his spot where he wanted to score and set up his teammates. Size, not just height, but girth/thickness separates Rasheed from the traditional smaller guards – still displaying quickness and ball handling ability it was delightful to see a different style of play make an impression. It’s a skill to use the hip and angles to beat your man and to show enough strength to hold them off and Dupree certainly did that.

Rayuan Lane, PG – Bmore’s Finest 
This guard exemplifies speed and quickness. Lane excels in transition by attacking the paint and the rim by weaving in and out of defenders with his tight handle. Already knows how to read, react, and take advantage of angles. Arguably the best overall athlete in this class of stars – he processes speed, strength, and quickness. A rarity Rayuan is one of those guards that is quicker with the ball than others without it. A pure defensive stopper with a tenuous killer instinct on both ends of the court.

Keno Lilly, WF (Team Takeover) 
This long and lean forward is a stat sheet stuffer; Lilly has excellent touch and concentration on the rim and elevates over opponents using his great length. In the half court he scores on slashes to the rim, rebounds well on both end, especially the offensive boards, and knocks down the mid-range jumper with range to the 3 point line. Keno is a very active player on both ends, he gets his hands on a lot of balls, and we look at him as a dangerous weapon anywhere on the court - reminding us a lot of John Henson the former North Carolina forward. He dominates the front court; playing all 3 spots with vigor; this multi-dimensional player is a luxury to have in any lineup and shows why every time the ball tips off.

Quadire Pettaway, F (Team Takeover)  
Powerfully-built, Pettaway has the quickness to penetrate past defenders and get to the rim. He can create his offense off the dribble as well hit the spot up jumper from long-range. Pettaway plays the game with great exuberance and intensity and will challenge anyone, anywhere, anytime on the defensive end. He leads on the floor by doing whatever it takes to get the job done. He will score, pass, rebound, defend, take a charge or dive on a loose ball.

Tevor Keels, C (Team Takeover)  
Keels dominates the game on the defensive end, particularly in the shot blocking category. He has the ability to control the game through his shot-blocking prowess. He continues to improve by leaps and bounds the more he plays. He is swiftly adapting to the speed of the perimeter players and may be able to step outside as a big forward soon making Takeover that much more dangerous. Keels is a force on the boards and employs a physical brand of basketball to establish post position. He is improving as a scorer on the interior with solid footwork and post moves. He runs the floor well and can be counted on to finished in the box in traffic.

Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 8th Grade Championship Recap: Baltimore Elite Makes A Statement!

Baltimore Elite 8th Grade

Baltimore Elite made a strong introduction to Basketball Spotlight by winning the DMV Takeover 8th Grade Championship 57-43 over Maryland Sports Scholars. Basketball Spotlight would like to congratulate both Baltimore squads for making it to the championship.

Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 7th Grade Orange Division Championship Recap: Team Takeover Reaches Destiny!

Team Takeover 7th Grade 

After years of coming close Team Takeover 7th Grade got over the hump and won the Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 7th Grade Orange Division Championship 44-39 over Team Nelson. Basketball Spotlight would like to congratulate both teams for making it to the finals.

Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 7th Grade Blue Division Championship Recap: Philly Triple Threat Back In Business!

Philly Triple Threat 7th Grade 

Philly Triple Threat returned to the scene by defeating the VA Hokies 66-52 to win the Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 7th Grade Blue Division Championship. Congrats to both teams for making it to the finals of this division.

Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 6th Grade Orange Division Championship Recap: TTO Holds Off MSE!

Team Takeover 6th Grade 

In a game with some serious talent on the floor Team Takeover 6th Grade defeated MSE National Select 69-62 to win the Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 6th Grade Orange Division Championship. We would like to congratulate both teams for making it to the finals and giving us a dandy to watch.

Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 6th Grade Blue Championship Recap: Team Final Gets Past The Thunder!

Team Final 6th Grade

Team Final answered the bell as their 6th Grade team defeated DC Thunder 49-41 to win the Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 6th Grade Blue Division Championship. We would like to congratulate both teams for making it to the finals.

Diary Of A Baller: Ja'Quaye James (Hackensack, NJ) Entry #3

Ja'Quaye Getting Ready!

Hey, wassup Ja'Quaye James here and this week started off with a bang. 

I received a call from my coach Kie and he told me that the PLAYAZ coaching staff wanted me to play up and try out for the 15's. I thought this was amazing. I was hyped when he called and gave me the good news. It was really an honor and because of all the great talent within the organization I didn't think I would be moving right up. As the week went on I got more good news. I found out we were going to a tournament in PA and being that we had a light weekend last week I was super hyped and excited to play. 

We started off the weekend crazy, we won by almost 50pts our first game. I had this one play where I came down and did a spin move then threw it behind my back to my man Amani who caught the banger. Our second game was a little bit different, we started off slow, but then I put the book bag on and kicked up against the Gauchos. I had a ton of good plays, but my favorite one was when I bodied the big-man and caught an and-one on the point guard. 

All weekend everybody was gearing up for the championship game against us and the IZOD team for our 2-2 series match-up that never happened. WHY??? I don't know...something happened that was way out of our control. I know I really wanted to play the game as did my teammates. I know the rivalry is getting a little intense, but we all have to remember we not TOUGH guys we are basketball players. I also learned a lot about the group of players that I go to war with day in and day out, (my teammates) which is, that they have my back and I have theirs no matter what, right or wrong, because we are brothers. All in all, my week was great. I got my work-out in and made it to the Chip again, but I was disappointed the the game didn't happen. I wish it wasn't so much politics involved in these games. It will be a lot more FUN and a lot less stressful for the parents, coaches and directors, because the kids...we just love the game and wanna play ball. 

It's your man JellyFam and I'm signing off. I got the heart of a lion, blood of a warrior and mentality of a soldier when things get going. These other guys I don't know. 

Men lie women lie numbers don't.

Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 5th Grade Championship Recap: Team Glory Takes The Banner!

Team Glory 5th Grade 

In a rematch of last year’s AAU 4th Grade National Championship game Team Glory defeated Team Takeover 41-32 to win the Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 5th Grade Championship. Congrats to both teams for making to the finals and giving the crowd a treat in the championship.

Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 4th Grade Championship Recap: Team Takeover Too Much!

Team Takeover 4th Grade 

In the 4th Grade finals Team Takeover showed too much mite as they cruised past the DC Warriors 47-19 to win the Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 4th Grade Championship. Basketball Spotlight would like to congratulate both teams for making to the championship.

Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 3rd Grade Championship Recap: M.A.D.E. Elite Grabs Title!

M.A.D.E. Elite 

The 3rd Grade Division ending in explosive fashion as M.A.D.E Elite defeated Team Takeover 36-31 to win the Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 3rd Grade Championship. Congrats to both teams for making it to the championship. We look forward to seeing both of these teams in the future. 

M.A.D.E. Elite Roster: Adam Matcha, Alexander Alarie, Franklin Ayissi-Etoh, Grant Ettinger, Jacob Waltour, Justin Polhemus, Mike Perlmutter, Peter Barros, Selden Pickens and Tommy Morrison

Coach Mark Alarie 

Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 2nd Grade Championship Recap: TTO Baby Ballers Win Thriller!

Team Takeover Baby Ballers Win!

In one of the best games of the day. Team Takeover defeated TJ Lakers 33-32 to win the Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover 2nd Grade Championship. Basketball Spotlight would like to congratulate both teams for making to the finals and having a hard fought finish.

Special Announcement, Schedule Has Been Revised! (Affected Teams Have Been Contacted) Please Print!

The Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover Master Schedule is below. Please make sure to print a copy of the schedule and the rules. Both are attached at the bottom of the link you click on. Please make sure you arrive early for your games. Once again we thank you again for supporting Basketball Spotlight we look forward to seeing you in Maryland. Please keep checking back for updates and changes. 

All Games Are Played At 
New 24 Facility 
6417 Marlboro Pike 
District Heights, MD 20747

Click Here For Schedule and Rules

Spotlight Alum Martin Throws Down Vicious Dunk!

Basketball Spotlight Alum Chaylynn Martin is playing well his freshman year at Weaver High School in Hartford, CT. During a recent game against rival Hartford Public School he showed off his athleticism with a big time dunk in traffic. As you know Martin starred on the Spotlight circuit with CBC AKA the “Money Team” while capturing several Spotlight championships.

Basketball Spotlight Baby Ballers Win Title!

Basketball Spotlight Baby Ballers

On Saturday Basketball Spotlight Baby Ballers defeated PBA 167 20-11 to win the Boys and Girls Club of Mercer County Winter League 9-11 years old Championship. We would like congratulate these youngsters for winning the title. 

Roster: Calvin Moore Jr., Phillip McCall Jr., Terrell Pitts, Jamar Pitts, Sean Corbin, Mikai Alfred, Doug Evans Jr., Brandon Gardner and Brandon Ford

Diary Of A Baller: Ja'Quaye James (Englewood, NJ) Entry #2

Ja'Quaye Getting It In 

Calm Before The Storm!

Hey you'll wassup this Ja'Quaye James again on my 2nd entry letting you'll know how things have been since last week. 

This was a really slow week for me. I basically just worked out on Monday and Tuesday same routine for me shots push-ups light weights and some drills. Wednesday I chilled and went to go watch some great High School games with my dad. I wanted to go watch and see how I would fit in playing with one of these high level High School programs. Thursday was another day in the lab with my team. We put up a lot of shots, got some ball handling in and then went home to some good food and a good night sleep. 

The weekend finally started at 2:30 pm when I got out of school. I went to the weight room to put some work in, then too hang out with my friends and go to the movies. I have to spend time with friends because I am always away and we don't have time together. Saturday I got to catch up on some sleep, and I really needed that. But, like always I had to go put in that work, even if I have to wait until 2:00 am when the gym is clear. 

Sunday is usually another day in the lab and back to school on Monday. But this one was a little different...I got to chill with my guys JQ, TIBA, LUTHER and TY for my little homie King Jules birthday at the bowling alley, we ate, bowled and had a lot of fun. I won just because bowling and winning is in my blood (LOL), but yes, it was cool. Now back to school mode and grind mode. Catch you'll next week...this is JellyFam Guwop and I'm signing off. 

Always remember men lie women lie numbers don't. Facts

One On One Feat. Donovan Toatley (Team Takeover)

Donovan Toatley has been known as a ball handling wizard and big time playmaker for years on the AAU Circuit. He gave us some great moments during his Spotlight tenure and will be one of the stars as we make our first appearance in Maryland as the DMV Takeover. We decided to sit down and talk to the Team Takeover point guard.

One on One Feat. Donovan Toatley

BS: You have had a prosperous AAU career has a grammar school player, what’s your fondest memory?
DT: My fondest memory from my basketball career so far is the game against DC Assault, I scored 42 points in a single outing.

BS: Early on you were with DC Assault and then you seemed to find a home with Team Takeover, what do you like the most about the Takeover organization?
DT: The things that I like and enjoy most about the Takeover organization is of course the free Nike apparel and shoes, but the family environment that the organization represents to each and every athlete. Also Takeover isn't just concerned with on the court abilities but they're also concerned with off the court things such as school, or preparation for interviews being in the front of the camera.

BS: You played against some of the top players around the country, who would you say was the best you faced?
DT: The best players I competed against are Jahvon Quinerly, Ja'Quaye James, and Tre Wood my Takeover teammate. Those three guards are the best I played so far because there savvy with the ball, have great ball handling, terrific vision, lighting face, can get to the bucket and shoot and on top of all those great attributes they have a tremendously high basketball IQ.

BS: If you could wake up tomorrow in any college in the country, which would you select and why?
DT: The college I would pick if I had the chance to wake up tomorrow is either Syracuse, Miami or Maryland because I like the way their head coaches do their job; What I mean by that is if there a player that can get a bucket they let them do that. Also those coaches are player coaches that coach to their player’s strengths and weakness, unlike Coach K that is a system coach that runs plays all game.

BS: You basically grew up playing in the Spotlight circuit, what do you enjoy most about our events?
DT: The things I enjoy about the Spotlight circuit is the exposure that comes with the game and the pack stands and the great competition the circuit brings.

BS: What do you feel are the strong points of your game?
DT: The strong points of my game is my ball handling, shooting, passing, defense, and the will not lose.

BS: What part of your game needs the most developing?
DT: The things of my game that need most improving is my shot selection sometimes and in big games or when my team is down, not feeling like I have to get my team out of this deficit by myself. Also I have to learn to control my emotions and talking trash with a smile on my face.

BS: Coach Stevens has been known as a great coach especially for guards, what have you learned since playing for him?
DT: The thing I learned from Keith Stevens is how to play and take pride in defense every single game and being more of a vocal point guard.

BS: Where do you see yourself as compared to the other top point guards in the Class of 2018?
DT: I see myself as a top 5 point guard in Class of 2018.

BS: Give me one word to describe Basketball Spotlight.
DT: Great!

Basketball Spotlight Headed South In March!

In the month of March Basketball Spotlight will be heading south for two big events. Our first stop will be in Greensboro, NC for the Carolina Preps Invitational and the next weekend we will be headed to Atlanta for the Georgia United Tip Off Classic.

The Carolina Preps Invitational has the #1 team in the Class of 2019 headlines this card. We expect some heavy teams from throughout the country to come and take a shot at this crew. Basketball Spotlight will be in the building to bring you wall to wall coverage. Attention concession stand, make sure you have that slaw ready. 

The Georgia United Tip Off Classic of course features the #1 8th grade team in the land but also will be bringing in the We All Can Go All Stars, Kentucky Gators, ATR Explosion, NC Runnin Rebels and a host of others. We cannot wait to get down to the Georgia Peach State for this action.

AC Showcase Getting Early Interest!

The Atlantic City Showcase returns April 19th and 20th in America’s playground. Last year this event was one of the best tournaments in the country. This year’s lineup seems to be no different. Space will be very limited so make sure you register early. 

8th Teams 
1. Team IZOD (National Runner Up)
2. We R 1 
3. Team Twelve 
4. SHA Elite 
5. George Hill All Stars 
6. New Heights 
7. Hilltoppers Heat  
8. Boston Spartans (Rue)
9. Boston Spartans (Wilfork)
10. Kingdom Elite 
11. We All In 
12. Team DEMI
13. Expressions Elite
14.
15.
16.

7th Grade 
1. Team Nelson 
2. George Hill All Stars 
3. MJ Mavericks 
4. We R 1 
5. NY Watchmen
6. Hilltoppers Heat 
7. Team Scan
8. Boston Spartans
9. We All In
10. Expressions Elite 
11. Team RIO National
12. Team Takeover 
13. Metro Flyers 
14. RJS
15. Gauchos 
16.

6th Grade 
1. Team IZOD 
2. George Hill All Stars 
3. We R 1 
4. Hilltoppers Heat 
5. Nations Basketball Academy 
6. Team Scan
7. Team Takeover (Gorham)
8. Boston Spartans 
9. Kingdom Elite 
10. We All In
11. Expressions Elite
12. House of Sports
13. Boston Titans 
14. Team Glory
15.
16. 

 5th Grade 
1. We All In 
2. We R 1 
3. Hilltoppers Heat 
4. Kingdom Elite 
5. Expressions Elite 
6. House of Sports
7. Team Glory 
8. 
9. 
10. 
11.
12.

4th Grade 
1. George Hill All Stars (National Champs)
2. Hilltoppers Heat
3. Rens 
4. House of Sports 
5. Team Glory
6.
7.
8.

Chase Adams Proves There Are Good Things In Small Packages!

Regardless of where anyone has Chase Adams of Chicago, Ill. ranked, few can argue about the kid’s effectiveness. I’ve been covering hoops for years now and I really can’t remember seeing a guard this small on the 8th Grade level but yet so dominate. His handle is sizzling and his court vision is uncanny. I’ve always leaned towards size when it comes to my rankings but this kid is amazing at what he does. IJS

Basketball Spotlight Highlights: "Inferno" Burns The MIT

Jahvon Quinerly 

Jahvon “Inferno” Quinerly used the Clash For The Cup to get acclimated with the “Supreme Team” and his play helped them win the championship. During the MIT he looked a little more comfortable as he scorched opponents and helped Team IZOD take home another championship. Check out his highlights and stay tuned because we have more to come soon.

The Tradition Contnues In America's Playground (April 19th and 20th)

The Atlantic City Showcase is coming and scheduled for April 19th and 20th. Some of the top teams in the country have already inquired about this event. We expect a sell out so make sure you register quickly. Hotel information is also listed below. Book your rooms quickly because once they are gone the weekend price is tremendous. 

Event: Atlantic City Showcase 
Date: April 19th and 20th 
Ages: 4th Grade Thru 8th Grade 
Price: $375 Per Team (Muli-Team Discount Available) 

Single Team Registration 

Multi-team Registration 

Hotel Registration

The DMV Takeover Almost At Capacity!

The Basketball Spotlight DMV Takeover will be our first trip to Maryland March 8th and 9th and as expected it’s gaining a lot of interest. Make sure you get online and register quickly because a sellout is expected. Here’s is a list of teams that have committed. The event deadline is February 28th. 

8th Grade 
1. Team Takeover (Black) 
2. Baltimore Elite 
3. Team Final (Blue) 
4. Team Final (Black) 
5. B'More Finest 
6. Maryland Sports Scholars
7. 6th Man Warriors
8. DC Premiere (Formerly DC Assault)
9. Gym Rats (Syracuse)
10. Team Crossover Elite 
11. Baltimore Showtime 
12. Banneker Kings
13. Mass Shooting Stars
14. Annadale Bulldogs 
15. NY Lightning 
16. Maryland Pride 
17. Delaware Finest Stars
18. Bowie Magic
19.
20. 

7th Grade 
1. Team Takeover (Black) 
2. 6th Man Warriors (VA) Black
3. MD Playmakers (Black) 
4. Baltimore Elite 
5. Baltimore Stars 
6. MADE Elite
7. DC Premiere
8. Team Final
9. Team Nelson 
10. Team Takeover (Orange)
11. B'More Finest
12. Fairfax Cowboys
13. 6th Man Warriors (VA) Red 
14. MD Finest
15.
16.

6th Grade 
1. Team Takeover (Black) 
2. DC Thunder 
3. Chesterfield Jayhawks 
4. Team Takeover (Orange)
5. 6th Man Warriors (MD)
6. DC Premiere 
7. Team Glory
8. Maryland Playmakers 
9. Delaware Finest Stars
10. National Select 
11. River City Reign 
12. Team Crossover Elite 
13. Fairfax Cowboys 
14. 6th Man Warriors (DC)
15. MD Finest 
16. Team Final
17.
18. 

5th Grade 
1. Team Takeover (Black) National Champions 
2. Baltimore Elite 
3. Tidewater Wildcats (Black) 
4. Tidewater Wildcats (Gold) 
5. MD Playmakers 
6. B"More Finest
7. MADE Elite
8. Fairfax Stars 
9. Virginia Panthers 
10. Team Glory
11. Revolutions 
12. 

4th Grade 
1. Team Takeover (Black) 
2. Team Takeover (Orange)
3. MADE (Elite)
4. Team Glory
5. WDBA
6. MD Finest
7.
8. 

3rd Grade 
1. Team Takeover (Black) 
2. B'More Finest
3. MADE Elite
4. Team Glory
5. MD Finest
6. DMV All Stars
7.
8. 

 2nd Grade 
1. Team Takeover (Black) 
2. B'More Finest
3. 6th Man Warriors
4. MADE (Attack)
5. Team Glory
6. TJ Lakers
7. MD Finest
8.

Basketball Spotlight Highlights: Taylor Commands Attention At The Clash!

Atiba Taylor (Team IZOD)

Much has been written about Taylor and his ability to play the point. During the Clash For The Cup he proved he was worth the billing after quarterbacking the “Supreme Team” to the championship. Check out his highlights and remember where you saw it at first. Basketball Spotlight, the nations #1 leader in tournaments and event coverage. Stay tuned as we bring you more highlights and profiles from top players. Next week we will check out how he performed at the MIT.

Diary Of A Baller: Ja'Quaye James (Englewood, NJ) Entry #1 (Video Highlights)

Young Ja'Quaye and Uncle Juelz Santana

Basketball Spotlight is now of its third Diary of A Ball for the 2013-14 season. Introducing Ja’quaye James from Englewood, NJ. 

Hello Basketball World, 

Yes, Juelz Santana is my uncle. Yes, I was the little boy in all the videos. Yes, I was on the “What The Games Been Missing" album and yes I used to rap and model but that was in the past. 

This week went well for me, it was my birthday on February 15th then my uncle JuJu (Juelz) birthday on February 18th and we spent time together. We went out to eat with the family and had a bunch of laughs and a lot of food and a good time watching the all-star weekend festivities. Now it's time to let you'll know who I am and how my life changed for the better in the basketball world. Yes, this is my dream! 

I'm Ja'Quaye James and my basketball journey started with the Gauchos, it was a good team, but the coaches felt they had better options than me, so therefore I moved on to the L.I. Lightning. The Lightning helped me figure out and define my game. Things were good for about a year then the high school program took over and snatched my two friends John Severe (Fordham)and Dayshon Smith. When they left I knew it was time for me to go. Next, I bounced back and forth from the Rens and Milbank. Both were good programs but I still needed to find the right home. Now I am PlayazFAM…4Life. I finally found a team and a place that I can call home and I love it here, “no chuck” this is real facts. 

I grew up uptown on 164th street; this is where I got my toughness from. I played in the Pit and the Battle Grounds playgrounds with all the older guys. I always felt that if I can play here I can play anywhere. Now I play with a certain mindset every-time I'm on those basketball courts. This comes from getting told I'm too small or not strong enough or not fast enough. This made me battle tested at a young age. Now on the court I'm fearless and I'm always comfortable like I been there before. I think this type of chip on my shoulder is helping me out for the best. At the end of the day I was honored when Mike Melton asked me to do the diary and let you all into my life. I want to give you the real me on and off the court. I like to do a lot of other things besides a basketball, like playing video games, riding my 4 wheeler, and just chill with my friends. But I have no friends on the court. If you have that other jersey on, its war! LOL.. Ask Jahvon Quinerly, he is one of my good friends off the court but on the floor it’s a different story. 

Once again this is Ja'Quaye James and I'm signing off aka Young Jelly Fam aka @jf_g3 Mr. 12 on IG LOL, nah I'm just playing. But I'm signing off, catch you'll next week. Ja'Quaye James best point guard in class hands down. Men lie women lie numbers don't. Facts of life.

Basketball Spotlight Highlights: Works and Brown Lead DEMI Past Scan At Clash!

Team DEMI dynamic duo of Maurice Works and Shandon Brown showed their skills during their defeat of Team Scan. Team DEMI walked away with the victory while Brown and Works established themselves as the #1 8th Grade backcourt in the New England Region. Stay tuned as Basketball Spotlight brings your more highlights top players around the country.

Basketball Spotlight Player Highlights: It's Show Time!

Scottie "The Show" Lewis 

We gave Scottie Lewis the nickname of “The Show” and he lived up to his billing at the Clash For The Cup. The shooting guard gave us a glimpse of all his tools while helping his 7th Grade team reach the championship round of the 8th Grade Blue Division. Some scouts have him ranked in the Top 5 of the Class of 2019 and I can’t disagree but I must admit that he might have an argument for the #1 spot.

Basketball Spotlight Highlights: Toatley Shows Breakdown Moves!

Donovan Toatley (Team Takeover)

Donovan Toatley has always been known for his ball handling and finishing. During the Clash For The Cup he stripped another point guard and finished the play off with flair. Toatley runs the show for the Team Takeover 8th Grade crew and will be ready to rock at the DMV Takeover. 

Basketball Spotlight Player Highlights: Clark Proving His Point At The Clash!

Aaron Clarke (Team Scan)

The development of Aaron Clarke has been a hot topic this season and he showed prowess during the Clash For The Cup. He carried a full load while being the primary ball handler and perimeter scorer. We will keep you posted on Clarke’s progress as he gets ready for the high school level.

Introducing Skylar Williams (South Carolina)

Skylar Williams showed his great court vision at the 2013 CP3 Rising Stars Camp. The Class of 2018 point guard created for his teammates and stroked the ball from deep. Skylar is one of South Carolina's top 8th graders. Video appears courtesy of Ty Kish and Middle School Hoops.