Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Preview: Bring Your Game Not Your Name!

Is Team RIO Really Ready For The Spotlight?

The 7th Grade Division features some of the top teams on the East Coast. I can’t wait to see them get busy in Neptune. Here are the teams to look out for. 

Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Preview 

White Division

Team RIO National: Yes RIO was formed to storm the country and take home hardware. Their first stop will be at the Tip Off Classic and we are anxious to see if they are ready for the real work. All eyes will be on them. 

Metro Flyers: Believe it not the Metro Flyers have yet to grab a Spotlight banner. They might be the most loaded team in the region so they definitely have a shot to win it all. 

CIA Bounce: This squad ran through the Clash For the Cup and now they will try to add a Tip Off Classic banner to their collection. This White Division is something serious so they better be ready. 

Team Takeover: I’m hearing that this group is loaded so we can’t wait to see them tangle in this Elite Eight division. They too have yet to take that prestigious picture behind the banner on Sunday. 

Playaz: PBC felt they were ready for the big boys so here’s your shot. We see very early whether they can sink or swim. 

Rens: Oh yes the Rens were very intriguing down at the AAU Nationals, now they have jumped right back in the fire. We know they will be ready to bang out in this backyard brawl. 

6th Man Warriors: The Warriors are tough to beat at times and are capable of surprising this field. If OMG gets on fire things could get really interesting. 

DC Assault: DCA got a little taste in AC last year. Now they have entered the shark’s tank. In this place only the strong really survive. Good luck. 

Orange Division 

MJ Mavericks: The Mavs could one of the favorites to take home the Orange Prize. Once they get clicking they can turn the lights out on you quick. Please don’t sleep on these boys. 

Gauchos: The Choz will be looking to get into victory circle. They added a few pieces and should have the hunger of winning their first banner. 

Expressions: The X was another squad I liked in Hampton last summer but now they have to earn their Spotlight stripes. If they get on a roll they might can make it happen. 

RJS: The Burlington boys turned a few eyebrows last year now they are looking to cash in. I think they have a enough pieces to make a serious run. We will definitely be on the lookout again. 

Maryland Playmakers: I haven't seen this team but I heard they are very fundamentally sound and can knock anyone off. I'm interested in seeing them in action. 

Team DEMI: These boys are back with something to prove. This year could be the year they finally get over the hump.

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 6th Grade Preview: Here We Go Again!

Can The Gauchos Repeat As Champs

The 6th Grade Division is loaded with some good talent and top ranked teams. Here’s a look at the teams that will be taking the floor at the Tip Off Classic. 

Tip Off Classic 6th Grade Preview 

Gauchos: Last year they took home the Tip Off Classic crown and will be looking to repeat. They love the fast paced game and will be hard to slow down once they get going. We look for some explosive play from this bunch. 

King Street Kings: The Grand Finale champs are loaded once again. They added a few pieces from their rival the CJ hawks. Now they should have enough weapons to make a clean sweep at the Tip Off Classic. 

Team Glory: TG still hasn’t grab the banner as of yet but that could change at the Tip Off Classic. They have some of the best talent in the region and are capable of running the table. 

Team Final: This is our first look at this crew. But I heard the scooped up some talented guards so they should be ready to shine. The Spotlight is waiting. 

CIA Bounce: These guys rarely waste a trip when coming to the U.S. therefore the teams need to be on notice. We expect them to really bring the noise. 

ESYC Elite: This group turned a few heads last year now they feel like they are ready for the big boys. This will be their first test and I will definitely let you guys know how they held up. 

Team DEMI: These boys always bring that Bean Town toughness. They can run and gun with the best of them. 

 Also Look For: Rise Panthers, On Point Rens, New Rens and MADE Basketball.

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade White Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade White Division Tip Off Classic schedule is below. Please make sure you travel early to make your games on time. This schedule is final unless its an error on our part. 

Pool S 
1. Team Scan 
2. NC Runnin Rebels 
3. Team Final 
4. Team Takeover 

 Pool T 
1. Team IZOD 
2. Rens 
3. I 10 Celtics 
4. Playaz 

Saturday Dec 7th 
4:00 PM T3-T4 (HGH 2) 
4:00 PM T1-T2 (HGH 3) 
5:10 PM S1-S2 (HGH 3) 
5:10 PM S3-S4 (HGH 2) 
6:20 PM T2-T4 (HGH 2) 
6:20 PM T1-T3 (HGH 3) 
7:30 PM S2-S4 (HGH 2) 
7:30 PM S1-S3 (HGH 3) 

 Sunday Dec. 8th 
11:20 AM S2-S3 (HGH 1) 
11:20 AM S1-S4 (HGH 2) 
11:20 AM T1-T4 (HGH 3) 
11:20 AM T2-T3 (HGH 4) 
 2:50 PM 1ST S-2ND T (HGH 2) 
 2:50 PM 1ST T-2ND S (HGH 3) 
 5:10 PM 8TH Grade White Division Championship (HGH 3) 

Sites:
(HGH) Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave. Neptune, NJ 07754

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Orange Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Orange Division Tip Off Classic schedule is below. Please make sure you travel early to make your games on time. This schedule is final unless its an error on our part. 

Pool U 
1. We R 1 
2. SHA Elite 
3. Team 12 
4. Milbank 

Pool V 
1. Brooklyn Rens 
2. New Heights 
3. Boston Spartans 
4. Mass Shooting Stars 

Saturday Dec. 7th 
10:10 AM U1-U2 (HGH 1) 
10:10 AM U3-U4 (HGH 2) 
12:30 PM V1-V2 (HGH 1) 
12:30 PM V3-V4 (HGH 4) 
 1:40 PM U1-U3 (HGH 1) 
 1:40 PM U2-U4 (HGH 4) 
 5:10 PM V1-V3 (HGH 1) 
 5:10 PM V2-V4 (HGH 4) 

 Sunday Dec. 8th 
 9:00 AM U1-I4 (HGH 1) 
 9:00 AM U2-U3 (HGH 2) 
 9:00 AM V1-V4 (HGH 3) 
 9:00 AM V2-V3 (HGH 4) 
 1:40 PM 1ST U-2ND V (HGH 2) SEMIFINAL 
 1:40 PM 1ST V-2ND U (HGH 3) SEMIFINAL 
 4:00 PM 8th Grade Orange Division Championship (HGH 3)

Sites: 
(HGH) Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave. Neptune, NJ 07754

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Blue Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Blue Division Tip Off Classic schedule is below. Please make sure you travel early to make your games on time. This schedule is final unless its an error on our part. 

 Pool W 
1. KSK 
2. CMEK 
3. MSU 
4. Hilltoppers 

Pool X 
1. Team Final (BLACK) 
2. JJ Hoops 
3. Durham City 
4. Long Branch Ballers

Saturday Dec. 7th 
9:00 AM W1-W2 (ANT) 
9:00 AM W3-W4 (GRE) 
11:20 AM W1-W3 (ANT) 
11:20 AM W2-W4 (GRE) 
 2:50 PM X1-X2 (ANT) 
 2:50 PM X3-X4 (GRE) 
 5:10 PM X1-X3 (ANT) 
 5:10 PM X2-X4 (GRE) 

 Sunday Dec. 8th 
11:20 AM W1-W4 (ANT) 
11:20 AM W2-W3 (GRE) 
12:30 PM X1-X4 (ANT) 
12:30 PM X2-X3 (GRE) 
 2:50 PM 1ST W-2ND X (ANT) SEMIFINAL 
 2:50 PM 1ST X-2ND W (GRE) SEMIFINAL 
 5:10 8TH Grade Blue Division Championship (LBMS 2) 

 SITES 
 (ANT) Anastasia School 92 7th Ave. Long Branch, NJ 07740 
 (GRE) Gregory School 201 Monmouth Ave. Long Branch, NJ 07740 
 (LBMS): Long Branch Middle School 350 Indiana Ave. Long Branch, NJ 07740

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade White Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade White Division Tip Off Classic schedule is below. Please make sure you travel early to make your games on time. This schedule is final unless its an error on our part. 

Pool M 
1. Metro Flyers 
2. 6th Man Warriors 
3. CIA Bounce 
4. Rens 

 Pool N 
1. Team RIO National 
2. DC Assault 
3. Playaz Basketball Club 
4. Team Takeover 

 Saturday Dec. 7th 
11:20 AM M3-M4 (HGH 2) 
11:20 AM M1-M2 (HGH 3) 
12:30 PM N3-N4 (HGH 2) 
12:30 PM N1-N2 (HGH 3) 
 1:40 PM M2-M4 (HGH 2) 
 1:40 PM M1-M3 (HGH 3) 
 2:50 PM N2-N4 (HGH 2) 
 2:50 PM N1-N3 (HGH 3) 

 Sunday Dec. 8th 
12:30 PM M2-M3 (HGH 1) 
12:30 PM M1-M4 (HGH 2) 
12:30 PM N1-N4 (HGH 3) 
12:30 PM N2-N3 (HGH 4) 
 2:50 PM 1ST M-2ND N (HGH 1) SEMIFINAL 
 2:50 PM 1ST N-2ND M (HGH 4) SEMIFINAL 
 5:10 PM 7TH Grade White Division Championship (HGH 2)

 Sites 
(HGH)- Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave. Neptune, NJ 07754

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Orange Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Orange Division Tip Off Classic schedule is below. Please make sure you travel early to make your games on time. This schedule is final unless its an error on our part. 

Pool O 
1. MJ Mavericks 
2. PBC Boys Club 
3. RJS 
4. Gauchos

Pool P 
1. Team DEMI 
2. Maryland Playmakers 
3. Expressions
4. Severn Elite 

 Saturday Dec. 7th  
10:10 AM O1-O2 (HGH 3) 
10:10 AM O3-O4 (HGH 4) 
11:20 AM P1-P2 (HGH 1) 
11:20 AM P3-P4 (HGH 4) 
 2:50 AM O1-O3 (HGH 1) 
 2:50 PM O2-O4 (HGH 4) 
 4:00 PM P1-P3 (HGH 1) 
 4:00 PM P2-P4 (HGH 4) 

 Sunday Dec. 8th 
10:10 AM O1-O4 (HGH 1) 
10:10 AM O2-O3 (HGH 2) 
10:10 AM P1-P4 (HGH 3) 
10:10 AM P2-P3 (HGH 4) 
 1:40 PM 1ST O-2ND P (HGH 1) SEMIFINAL 
 1:40 PM 1ST P-2ND O (HGH 4) SEMIFINAL 
 4:00 7TH Grade Orange Division Championship (HGH 2) 

 Sites: 
(HGH): Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave. Neptune, NJ 07754

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Blue Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Blue Division Tip Off Classic schedule is below. Please make sure you travel early to make your games on time. This schedule is final unless its an error on our part. 

Pool Q 
1. Hilltoppers Heat 
2. CMEK 
3. Brooklyn Kings 
4. Team Philly

Pool R 
1. Brooklyn Rens 
2. Milbank 
3. Northeast Finest 
4. Team Phenom (Black) 

Saturday Dec. 7th 
10:10 AM Q1-Q2 (ANT) 
10:10 AM Q3-Q4 (GRE) 
12:30 PM Q1-Q3 (ANT) 
12:30 PM Q2-Q4 (GRE) 
 1:40 PM R1-R2 (ANT) 
 1:40 PM R3-R4 (GRE) 
 4:00 PM R1-R3 (ANT) 
 4:00 PM R2-R4 (GRE) 

 Sunday Dec. 8th 
9:00 AM Q1-Q4 (ANT) 
9:00 AM Q2-Q3 (GRE) 
10:10 AM R1-R4 (ANT) 
10:10 AM R2-R3 (GRE) 
 1:40 PM 1ST Q-2ND R (ANT)SEMIFINAL 
 1:40 PM 1ST R-2ND Q (GRE) SEMIFINAL 
 4:00 PM 7TH Grade Blue Division Championship (LMBS 2) 

 Sites: 
 (ANT) Anastasia School 92 7th Ave. Long Branch, NJ 07740 
 (GRE) Gregory School 201 Monmouth Ave. Long Branch, NJ 07740 
 (LBMS): Long Branch Middle School 350 Indiana Ave. Long Branch, NJ 07740

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 6th Grade Blue Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight 6th Grade Blue Division Tip Off Classic Schedule is below. Please make sure you travel early to make your games on time. This schedule is final unless its an error on our part. 

Pool L 
1. Hilltoppers Heat 
2. KSK (White)
3. Brooklyn Kings 
4. Jersey Shore Phoenix 

Pool K 
1. Team Scan 
2. Boston Bobcats 
3. Milbank 
4. Bottom Ballers 

Saturday Dec. 7th 
10:10 AM L1-L2 (LBMS 1) 
10:10 AM L3-L4 (LMBS 2) 
12:30 PM L1-L3 (LBMS 1) 
12:30 PM L2-L4 (LBMS 2) 
 4:00 PM K1-K2 (LBMS 1) 
 4:00 PM K3-K4 (LBMS 2) 
 6:20 PM K1-K3 (LBMS 1) 
 6:20 PM K2-K4 (LBMS 2) 

Sunday Dec. 8th 
 11:20 AM l1-l4 (LBMS 1) 
 11:20 AM L2-L3 (LBMS 2) 
 12:30 PM K1-K4 (LBMS 1) 
 12:30 PM K2-K3 (LBMS 2) 
   2:50 PM 1ST L-2ND K (LBMS 1)SEMIFINAL 
   2:50 PM 1ST K-2ND L (LBMS 2)SEMIFINAL 
   5:10 PM 6TH GRADE BLUE DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP (HGH 4)   

Sites: 
(LBMS): Long Branch Middle School 350 Indiana Ave. Long Branch, NJ 07740 
(HGH)- Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave. Neptune, NJ 07754 

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 6th Grade Orange Division Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight 6th Grade Orange Division Tip Off Classic schedule is below. Please make sure you travel early to make your games on time. This schedule is final unless its an error on our part. 

Pool G 
1. Team Final 
2. CIA Bounce 
3. Team DEMI  

Pool H 
1. KSK (Blue) 
2. ESYC 
3. MADE Basketball  

Pool I 
1. RISE Panthers 
2. On Point Rens
3. Gauchos  

Pool J 
1. Team Glory 
2. Severn Elite 
3. Rens 

Saturday Dec. 7th 
9:00 AM G1-G2 (LBMS 1) 
9:00 AM H1-H2 (LBMS 2) 
11:20 AM G1-G3 (LBMS 1) 
11:20 AM H1-H3 (LBMS 2) 
 1:40 PM G2-G3 (LBMS 1) 
 1:40 PM H2-H3 (LBMS 2) 
 2:50 PM I1-I2 (LBMS 1) 
 2:50 PM J1-J2 (LBMS 2) 
 5:10 PM I1-I3 (LBMS 1) 
 5:10 PM J1-J3 (LBMS 2) 
 7:30 PM I2-I3 (LBMS 1) 
 7:30 PM J2-J3 (LBMS 2) 
 7:30 PM 3rd G-3rd H (ANT)

 Sunday Dec. 8th 
9:00 AM 1ST G-2ND H (LBMS 1) POOL G 
9:00 AM 1ST H-2ND G (LBMS 2) POOL H 
10:10 AM 1ST I-2ND J (LBMS 1) POOL I 
10:10 AM 1ST J-2ND I (LBMS 2) POOL J 
 1:40 PM POOL G-POOL J (LMBS 1) SEMIFINALS 
 1:40 PM POOL H-PPOL I (LMBS 2) SEMIFINALS 
 4:00 3RD I-3RD J (AS 1) 
 4:00 6TH Grade Orange Championship (HGH 4)

 Sites: 
(LBMS): Long Branch Middle School 350 Indiana Ave. Long Branch, NJ 07740 
(HGH)- Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave. Neptune, NJ 07754 
 (AS) All Sports Academy 1750 Brielle Ave. Ocean NJ 07712
(ANT) Anastasia School 92 7th Ave. Long Branch, NJ 07740

Basketball Spotlight 5th Tip Off Classic 5th Grade Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight 5th Grade Division Tip Off Classic schedule is below. Please make sure you travel early to make your games on time. This schedule is final unless its an error on our part. 

Pool E 
1. Team Glory 
2. S Elite 
3. Team Final 
4. Playtime Panthers 

Pool F 
1. Gauchos 
2. RISE Panthers 
3. Hilltoppers Heat 
4. Playaz

Saturday Dec. 7th 
4:00 PM E1-E2 (AS 1) 
4:00 PM E3-E4 (AS 2) 
5:10 PM F1-F2 (AS 1) 
5:10 PM F3-F4 (AS 2) 
6:20 PM E1-E3 (AS 1) 
6:20 PM E2-E4 (AS 2) 
7:30 PM F1-F3 (AS 1) 
7:30 PM F2-F4 (AS 2) 

 Sunday Dec. 8th  
11:20 AM E1-E4 (AS 1) 
11:20 AM E2-E3 (AS 2) 
12:30 PM F1-F4 (AS 1) 
12:30 PM F2-F3 (AS 2) 
2:50 PM 1ST E-2ND F (AS 1)SEMIFINALS 
2:50 PM 1ST F-2ND E (AS 2)SEMIFINALS
5:10 PM 5TH GRADE CHAMPIONSHIP (HGH 1)
 
Sites 
(HGH) Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave Neptune, NJ 07754 
(AS) All Sports Academy 1750 Brielle Ave. Ocean Township, NJ 0771

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 4th Grade Schedule

The Basketball Spotlight 4th Grade Division Tip Off Classic schedule is below. Please make sure you travel early to make your games on time. This schedule is final unless its an error on our part. 

Pool A 
1. CJ Hawks 
2. CMEK 
3. MADE Basketball 

Pool B 
1. Playtime Panthers 
2. Hilltoppers Heat 
3. Boston Bobcats 

Pool C 
1. Playaz 
2. Riverside Hawks 
3. Team Glory (B) 

Pool D 
1. Gauchos 
2. RISE Panthers 
3. Team Glory 

Saturday Dec. 7th 
9:00 AM A1-A2 (AS 1) 
9:00 AM B1-B2 (AS 2) 
10:10 AM C1-C2 (AS 1) 
10:10 AM D1-D2 (AS 2) 
11:20 AM A1-A3 (AS 1) 
11:20 AM B1-B3 (AS 2) 
12:30 PM C1-C3 (AS 1) 
12:30 PM D1-D3 (AS 2) 
  1:40 PM A2-A3 (AS 1) 
  1:40 PM B2-B3 (AS 2)
  2:50 PM C2-C3 (AS 1)
  2:50 PM D2-D3 (AS 2)
6:20 PM 3RD A- 3RD B (GRE) 
6:20 PM 3RD C-3RD D (ANT) 

 Sunday Dec. 8th 
 9:00 AM 1ST B-2ND A (AS 1) 
 9:00 AM 1ST A-2ND B (AS 2) 
10:10 AM 1ST C- 2ND D (AS 1) 
10:10 AM 1ST D-2ND C (AS 2) 
 1:40 PM POOL A-POOL D (SEMIFINAL) 
 1:40 PM POOL B- POOL C (SEMIFINAL) 
 4:00 PM 4TH GRADE CHAMPIONSHIP (HGH 1) 

 SITES:
 (AS) All Sports Academy 1750 Brielle Ave. Ocean Township, NJ 07712 
 (ANT) Anastasia School 92 7th Ave. Long Branch, NJ 07740
 (GRE) Gregory School 201 Monmouth Ave. Long Branch, NJ 07740 
 (HGH) Hoop Group Headquarters 1930 Heck Ave Neptune, NJ 07754

Diary Of A Baller: Atiba Taylor (Hackensack, NJ) Entry #1

Atiba Taylor Flying High 

Hello everybody in the basketball world. I am Atiba Taylor Jr., 6’ 2 1/2, 147lbs point guard for Team Izod Sports-U 14U. I would like to thank BBallSpotlight for giving me this platform to allow people insight into my life. I was born and raised in Spring Valley, NY. I grew up in Avon Gardens, a rough area around the way. In Avon, I learned to play street sports in the courtyard, (even though there weren’t any basketball hoops). We would mark an “X” on the building and if you hit it then you scored. 

Basketball Spotlight Looking For Big Apple Best Kept Secret!

Jordan McAllister (Bronx, NY)

Jordan McAllister appeared in Basketball Spotlight with the Gauchos and a little while ago. The wing guard showed good promise with his creative skills and size for his position. I really think he has a chance to be a good prospect, that's why we ranked him 41 in our Class of 2018 Top 70. We haven't seen him in a while and hopefully we will get another look at him this season. I believe his future is bright and this kid can go.

Basketball Spotlight Season Preview: 7th Grade Predictions and All Region Teams

Is Team RIO Really Ready? 

The Basketball Spotlight season is here and we decided to begin with our previews. In our final look at the 7th Grade Division we decided to give our predictions and present our preseason All-Region teams. 

Grand Finale Favorite: Team RIO National 
This squad was assembled to win titles therefore I think they have enough fire power to bring it all home. They will have their first crack at the banners during the Tip Off Classic where they will face some stiff competition. But in June we believe they will be carrying home the big banner. 

Darkhorses: Metro Flyers, Team Nelson and Team Takeover 

Player Of The Year Favorite: Scottie Lewis (Team RIO National) 
This is the first time a player has been the POY favorite before playing in any Spotlight tournament but this kid might be the exception. At the Super Skillcase he seemed to raise his game when the lights got brighter. Hopefully he will be ready for these bright lights. 

Coach Of The Year Favorite: Dermon Player (Metro Flyers) 
Player had a strong argument last year with the job he did with the Flyers. Now he will bolster his point while snatching a few of the banners. He has some good talent and can be thought of as one of the best motivators in the game. 

Preseason 1st Team All Region 
Mikeal Jones (Team Philly) 
Scottie Lewis (Team RIO) 
Jordan McKoy (Team RIO) 
Dajuan Piper (Metro Flyers) 
Cole Anthony (Rens) 

2nd Team All Region 
Danny Rodriquez (Metro Flyers) 
Jalen Brooks (?) 
Tay Allen (6th Man Warriors) 
Terrence Williams (Team Takeover) 
Tyler Brelsford (Team Takeover) 

3rd Team All Region 
Mark Bradshaw (Team Nelson) 
Dontae Scott (Team Nelson) 
AJ Hoggard (Team RIO National) 
Dejourno Cook (Playaz) 
Shamar Florence (MJ Mavericks)

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic Is Sold Out!

The Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic is locked and loaded. The registration has been closed. We have some important information below in which each team should take notice to. Once again we would like to thank you guys for showing interest in our event. 

Scheduling 
The schedule for the Tip Off Classic will be released the Tuesday before the event. In terms of schedule request we are not at able to grant any request due to the amount of teams entering this event. We will keep in mind of the travel distance for some teams. 

Divisions 
As usual teams will be placed in divisions according to their level and history at Spotlight events. These divisions are designed to incorporate the best sportsmanship possible. Teams feeling like they need to be in a higher division will have a chance to prove it at the event.

Basketball Spotlight Season Preview: 7th Grade POY Candidates

Mikeal Jones (Team Philly)

The Basketball Spotlight season is here and we would like to begin with our previews. Here is a look at the players we feel will make a run at the 7th Grade Player Of The Year Award. 

Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade POY Candidates 

Mikeal Jones Forward (Team Philly)- The reigning Player Of The Year has switched teams and now will have to carry a heavier load. He has some serious talent and when focused can really lead a team to victory. If he can make this Team Philly squad relevant he might have a chance to take home back to back POY awards.

Scottie Lewis Guard (Team RIO National)- Lewis came to NJ with a national rep and after watching him during the Super Skillcase I can say it’s well deserved. Since this kid has a chance to be special, winning Player of the Year is definitely a good possibility. Now we must see how he reacts when the heat is on while playing on the Celtics court.

Cole Anthony Guard (Rens)- After a few good showings on our circuit and a breakout performance at the AAU Nationals Anthony name has to be mentioned. He’s one of a few players that are capable of dominating a game from the outset. When his outside shot if falling he can appear un-guardable. Hopefully the Rens retooled a little so he doesn’t wear down early.

Dajuan Piper Guard (Metro Flyers)- Piper will be counted on to be a lot of things done. He expanded his game last season and really had a breakout campaign. Now he will be looked at as one of the top performers on this loaded team and must be ready to deliver. If he has big year and can help Metro Flyers capture a few Spotlight banners he could win the Player of The Year crown.

Basketball Spotlight Season Preview: 7th Grade Best Stock Options

Jordan "The Real" McKoy (Team RIO National)

The Basketball Spotlight season is here and we decided to begin with our preview. Below we have a group of players that we feel have a got chance to increase their stock during this season. 

Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Stock Risers 

Jordan McKoy Guard (Team RIO National)- After missing half of last season with an injury McKoy will be hungry to show that he’s still one of the top guards in the country. He stretched out a few inches and has regained his explosives when attacking. His perimeter scoring will be vital in helping Team RIO win it all.

Mark Bradshaw Guard (Team Nelson)- Bradshaw had a roller coaster season last year. Now with the departure of Mikeal Jones he will be counted on to bring more production to the table. If he can get things going it would help Team Nelson and move him up the ladder. We look for some huge scoring nights from this youngster. 

Daniel Rodriquez Forward (Metro Flyers)- When Rodriquez was able to convert inside he was one of the most dominate forces in the region. He’s always a problem defensively and plays with that Metro Flyers style of toughness. Some improved touch could definitely have his stock on the rise.

AJ Hoggard Guard (Team Rio National)- A true point guard such as Hoggard loves to have big time weapons around him. So AJ must be in heaven because he will have several thoroughbreds to feed. This help will allow him to really show off his point guard skills and raise that stock a few spots. The table is set. 

Dyondre Dominguez Forward (Expressions Elite)- I loved his game and potential at the 6th Grade Nationals in Hampton. Now I think you guys will feel the same way once you see him at the Tip Off Classic. The lanky forward can even step out past the 3 point line and nail the trey ball. A few good performances can definitely have him moving up.

Germir Robinson Guard (Playaz)- Robinson is a Playaz kid I think can make a splash in our Spring rankings. I like his size right now and his knack to score against his counterparts. I think this class could have their hands full with this kid. 

 Dejournal Cook Forward (Playaz)- Cook made his Spotlight debut last year during the MDC but at the Tip Off Classic he will be on the big stage. The big forward is nimble on his feet and very talented he didn’t make our Top 50 because I we didn’t see him at the MDC but he should have a good shot in April.

Terrence Williams Forward (Team Takeover)- Williams is a good stock option because He seems to be playing with more fire. His crisp post moves and footwork has always been good attributes but now he’s delivering with a purpose. If he can help carry Team Takeover to a Spotlight banner and stock should be going into the right direction. 

John McGriff Guard (DC Assault)- McGriff is a slick southpaw point guard with the chance to move onto our list in the spring. He isn’t afraid to attack the defense whenever he has the chance. I also like his court vision and superb ball handling. We will get a close up look at him with DCA at the Tip Off Classic. 

 Stay tuned as we bring you more previews from our 7th Grade Division.

Diary Of A Baller: Myles Dread (Burtonsville, MD) Final Entry!

MLK Monument 

Dear Basketball World, 

This is my last article. I just want to thank Mike Melton for the opportunity to do the "Diary of a Baller" series this year. I am very grateful because out of all the kids that play in the bballspotlight circuit he chose me. 

This week was a fun one at the Dread household. On Monday, I went on field trip to Washington, D.C... I got to see the WWII monument, the Martin Luther King Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and I also got to see the hope diamond, the biggest diamond in the world,. It was interesting to see how big the Lincoln Memorial was in person. I was also amazed at how many people were at the MLK monument on a Monday morning. I think it was special to see the monuments for the first time and really learning the history of our country. 

I just wanted to thank Mike Melton for affording me the chance to do this series. I am looking forward to playing against the best players on the east coast on the circuit. Until then I will be in the gym working on my game. Will you? 

Thanks for all of your support, 
 Myles Dread

Basketball Spotlight would like to thank Myles Dread for giving us a look into his life these last 12 weeks. Stay tuned next week as we begin our three month journey with Atiba Taylor of Team IZOD. That should be very interesting. 

Basketball Spotlight Season Preview: 7th Graders Ready To Breakout!

Jon Jon Wilson (Gauchos) 

The Basketball Spotlight season has arrived and we are beginning with our previews. Check out a few 7th Graders that we expect to have breakout seasons. 

7th Grade Breakout Players 

Jon Jon Wilson Guard (Gauchos)- Wilson took off half the season last year and hit the gym. The decision paid off dividends. During the Super Skillcase he showed more explosiveness to his game and seems to have a different swagger. I really expect him to raise his stock this season.

Marc Bruce Forward (Metro Flyers)- I think Bruce is ready to step in and become one of the main options for his squad. He’s showing more toughness on the post and even creating a little off the bounce. We will be paying close attention to his progress. 

Dontae Scott Forward (Team Nelson)- Scott is now ready to step out of the Mikeal Jones shadow. He showed more ability last year and if he can keep his head in the game I see him emerging as a serious problem.

Bryant Antione Guard (Team RIO)- Antione should be ready to burst through the door. He has all the tools but needs a little push to get to the next level. I think this is the year he can make that turn into a beast. 

Trevon Alderman Guard (We R 1)- Mark my words this kid is going to take it to another level this year. Right now he has to be one of the most underrated guards in the country. His style of play reminds me of current Brooklyn Net Tyshawn Taylor. 

Brian Hall Forward (New Rens)- Hall showed us some flashes at the AAU Nationals but was a little shy. Now I think he’s ready to come out of his shell. If so we might see a new budding star on the horizon.

Shamar Florence Forward (Mid Jersey Mavs)- By the end of last season I realized Florence could go. Now I think he’s ready for the next step. Don’t be surprised if he’s ready to take over a few games this year. 

Barry Evans Forward (Metro Flyers)- At times Evans played like one of the best players on the floor but needed to be a little more consistent. This year we look for him to turn the corner and have his breakout year.