Saturday, December 14, 2013

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Top Performers Part 3

Jon Jon Wilson (Gauchos)

The 7th Grade Division of the Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic had talent galore. Here’s our Part 3 of the top performers.

Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Top Performers Part 3

Jon Jon Wilson Guard (Gauchos)- Wilson continues to show improvements in his game. He saved his best outing for the Orange Division championship when they avenged an earlier loss to the MJ Mavericks. In the finals Wilson led the way with 17 points and 8 assists. Good weekend young fella.

Jullien Crittendon Guard (Gauchos)- Crittendon helped Wilson out with the scoring during the tournament. During their big semifinal showdown against Expression Jullien pumped in a game high 20 points to help the Choz get the win.

KC Ndefo Forward (Gauchos)- Ndefo collected 16 markers against Expressions but made his impact all weekend by blocking shots and hitting the glass. His size was a serious problem for the opposition down in Neptune.

Shamar Florence Forward (MJ Mavericks)- Florence averaged 14 points a contest and used his versatility to get them to the finals. He came out big during the meeting with the Maryland Playmakers where he pumped a game high 17 points.

Joey Baldachino Guard (MJ Mavericks)- RJS didn’t get the memo about guarding Baldachino and it cost them dearly. The outside marksman stroked 3 treys on his way to 18 points while helping them cruise to the victory. Attention: Please don’t leave him open!

Travis Cumber Guard (MJ Mavericks)- The slick point guard got into the scoring column against the Maryland Playmakers. He tallied 17 makers and helped his boys to pull out the win on their way to the finals. He’s one of the best all around guards in the region.

Dyondre Dominquez Forward (Expressions)- Dominquez had an excellent weekend while helping “The X” reach the final four. One of their biggest wins came against Boston rival Team DEMI and he answered the bell with 16 markers. He also hit up Severn Elite with 18 points. This is a kid with the talent to take off in the next few years.

Deveon Ford Guard (Expressions)- Dominguez’s partner also brought his game to the Spotlight. He scored 18 points apiece against Team DEMI and Maryland Playmakers. He makes an excellent 1-2 punch with Dyondre. We look forward to seeing both of them in action again.

Jaysm Gibson Guard (Maryland Playmakers)- Gibson answered Ford’s play when they battled Expressions. This youngster tickled the twine in Hoop Group Headquarters for 5 treys in his Spotlight debut.

Tariq Ingraham Forward (PBC Boys and Girls Club)- The big fella’s team wasn’t that successful but he managed to put together some good scoring games. His best performance came against RJS as he poured in 26 points. In the end he might be one of the best overall prospects in the class when it’s said and done.

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Top Performers Part 2

Cole Anthony (Rens)

The 7th Grade Division of the Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic had talent galore. Here’s our Part 2 of the top performers. 

Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Top Performers Part 2 

Cole Anthony Guard (Rens)- Once again Anthony gave me something to talk about. The combo guard showed why he’s considered one of the top scoring guards in America. He scored 27 vs. CIA Bounce, 25 against 6th Man Warriors and 26 against rival Metro Flyers. His play led Rens to the final four in the 7th Grade loaded White Division. He seems to rise to the occasions as the stage gets bigger even though defenses are focused on his play. He’s off to a great start of his Spotlight season. 

Judah McIntyre Guard (Rens)- McIntyre has been working in the gym on his outside shot and against Team RIO in the semifinals it showed. The ultimate competitor drained four long balls in their hard fought loss. I also liked the way he handled the pressure from all the top clubs. This kid is truly battle tested and demands the best from his teammates. 

Brian Hall Guard (Rens)- Speaking of shooting I love this kids stroke and size on the perimeter. He also hit a few big treys in their loss to RIO. I like the fact the he understands early that he’s a true perimeter player and has tailored his game to that direction. He’s quietly one of the best prospects around. 

Tai-Jai Waiters Guard (CIA Bounce)- Waiters returned to the Spotlight to help CIA Bounce reach the semifinals. He had a few big games including a 25 point performance in their semifinal loss to Team Takeover. He has no problem putting squad on his shoulders and carrying them in the fire. This kid is definitely a true talent. 

Danny Rodriquez Forward (Metro Flyers)- Rodriquez had his best outing versus CIA Bounce which helped his team rebound from an early defeat to 6th Man Warriors. He dominated the paint and finished with 24 points. Once he figures out how to make more of his close shots his average and production will rise even higher. 

Levar Allen Guard (6th Man Warriors)- Allen posted his best game against CIA Bounce. The talented guard finished with 20 points in their loss. He’s shown before that he’s capable of blacking out at any time. He’s definitely a gamer. 

Malik Anderson Guard (6th Man Warriors)- Anderson is another scorer for the Warriors and I like his size for his position. He can shoot the deep ball and score in traffic. He helped them ride to a surprising blow out of the Metro Flyers in their first outing. 

Jordan Hairston Guard (DC Assault)- Hairston was a bright spot for the DCA squad. He was the only player to put up a fight against the Team RIO National. He collected double digit scoring in the loss.

Friday, December 13, 2013

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1

Scottie "The Show" Lewis (Team RIO)

The 7th Grade Division of the Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic had talent galore. Here’s our Part 1 of the top performers.

Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1

Scottie Lewis Forward (Team RIO National)- “The Show” started out a little slow in his first outing as he was surveying the Spotlight scene. But once he got comfortable the region saw the talent that I have been talking about. Lewis ran the floor like a deer, displayed a real pull up jumper, was a shot blocking menace on defense and gave the crowd a treat with a few thunderous dunks. His motor is something special especially for a 7th Grader and many spectators left this event singing his praise. This kid really has a bright future.
  
Jordan McKoy Guard (Team RIO National)- “The Real McKoy” looked to be in mid season form and fully recovered from his injury. He filled the lanes in transition while also helping out on the glass. He continues to be a matchup problem on this level with his combination of size and skills. His scoring punch will be needed as RIO tries to take the country by storm.
Bryan Antoine Guard (Team RIO National)- Yes, Antoine has arrived. In the past he was counted on to carry the full load now he has settled into his new role. This weekend he lit up the scoreboard from deep and while driving to the cup. In transition he was too difficult to contain as he maneuvered for buckets. He gives this team that deadly third scorer they need.
AJ Hoggard Guard (Team RIO National)- The pg is loving all his weapons this year. He’s pushing the rock quicker these days and dropping dimes like a snitch. Against DC Assault he was able to get into the lane and either score or drop off the pill. I’m sure he has the ability to keep all these youngsters happy.
Jalen Gaffney Guard (Team RIO National)- Gaffney came up big when RIO’s needed him the most. They were in a serious semifinal dogfight with Rens and the combo stepped and delivered 18 big points including 3 treys. I also like the way he helped out with the point guard duties at times. His play in the semis propelled them into the finals.
Terrence Williams Forward (Team Takover)- “Big Smoove” best outing came during their semifinal match up with CIA Bounce. The talented forward had a huge outing dropping in 22 points and helping them advance to the finals. When Williams is totally clicking there’s not many in the country that can slow him down.
Tyler Brelsford Guard (Team Takeover)- Brelsford also came up huge against CIA Bounce with a good floor game including 12 points. He ran the show as usual and even clipped rival DC Assault for 19 markers in their pool play matchup. Good showing for the young pg.

BJ Joyner Forward (Team Takeover)- Joyner is a new addition to this crew and made his presence felt. He’s strong as a bull in the lane but can also use his touch to score in traffic. His presence frees up Williams to do other things which increases his production.

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Tip Off Classic Blue Division Championship Recap: Hilltoppers Bring The Heat!

Hilltoppers Heat 

In the 8th Grade Blue Division Championship Hilltoppers Heat defeated CMEK 56-38 to win the Tip Off Classic title. Congrats to Hilltoppers Heat for getting the job done. We will see them soon at the next Spotlight event.

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Top Performers Part 3

Aaron Clarke (Team Scan)

The Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Division was loaded with talent. In our final look at this division we take a look at the Top Performers Part 3. 

Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Top Performers Part 3 

Aaron Clarke Guard (Team Scan)- Clarke started the event off on fire against NC Runnin Rebels as he led TS to the victory and scored a game high 18 points. Clarke will have to keep this scoring mentality going if Team Scan wants to return to the top of the charts. 

Brandon Gauld Forward (Team Takeover)- When I did get a chance to watch TT rock Gauld’s play stood out. He has good footwork on the post and nice touch. He also can venture out to the perimeter and shoot the rock. His play helped them reach the final four. 

Theodore Senior Guard (Team Twelve)- The combo guard scoring led Team Twelve to the Orange Division finals. He averaged 26 points a game including a big breakout against Mass Shooting Stars. 

Chris Doherty Forward (Mass Shooting Stars)- MSS newest edition gave them added size and scoring inside. He had his best moment during his Spotlight debut with a 23 point performance against Team Twelve. His presence opens up a lot for him and teammates. 

Dominic Jones Guard (Boston Spartans)- The high scoring guard brought his game to the Spotlight again. Jones’s big moment came against the Brooklyn Rens when he recorded 25 markers. This kid can put up numbers against any competition. 

Darius Kinnel Guard (WE R 1)- Kinnel caught my attention his first game when he attacked the bucket from different angles. He’s strong enough to absorb the contact when driving the lane. He does need to strengthen his left hand to keep the defense honest. 

Alex Irregwe Forward (SHA ELITE)- The athletic forward collected numbers inside with some quick moves and soft touch. He ran the floor well and also hit the glass for boards. He was a big piece of them winning the title. 

Knwon Bradford Guard (I 10 Celtics)- The quick southpaw played the point and tried to breakdown the defense every chance he got. When he was under control he actually looked good. He does have to do a better job of picking his spots. 

J’Raan Brooks Forward (I 10 Celtics)- Brooks entered this event with a big name. I like his skill set, including post moves and shooting touch. I do think he needs to play a little more physical inside but that can come with maturity or maybe he will become a primary wing player.

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Top Performers Part 2

Cameron "The Prince" Reddish (Team Final)

The Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Division of the Tip Off Classic was loaded with talent. Here’s Part 2 of Top Performers from this weekend. 

Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Top Performers Part 2 

Cameron Reddish Guard (Team Final)- Team Final came a few points short of making the finals and Reddish came out his shell. Yes, “The Prince” continued his hot play from the Super Skillcase including scoring the pill and creating for teammates. His form on his outside shot looks pure and his body movement echo’s a natural basketball player. I think the experience he gaining by playing varsity is helping him turn the corner earlier.

Mikey Esquillin Guard (Team Final)- “The Engine” now dons the colors of Team Final but his game seems to be still the same. It was hard to contain him in the open floor because of his handle and speed. He also was a pest on the defensive end as Team Final forced several turnovers especially against Team Scan. He seemed to be a nice fit with this squad. 

Devin Ferraro Forward (Team Final)- Ferraro was a force inside for TF all weekend. I like how he runs the floor and understands that his bread is buttered in the paint. His physical play was a much needed asset to the Team Final line up.

Damon Wall Guard (Team Final)- Wall is built like a running back but has some shifty moves with the basketball. He bullied opponents on both ends of the floor and his aggressive style carried over to his teammates. 

Alex Serrano Guard (Team Final)- Serrano also made his Spotlight debut with Team Final. He was a great pickup because he gives them another good sized guard to play alongside Reddish if they want to go big. This weekend he made some big plays in their semifinal loss to the Playaz. 

Jake Betlow Guard (SHA Elite)- Betlow is playing up in grade but you couldn't tell when he was on the floor. This kid can flat out shoot the pill. He capped off a brilliant weekend from the perimeter with 5 treys in the Orange Championship versus Team Twelve. He's difficult to guard because he's quick with the ball and his range is unlimited.


Paul Durkee Guard (Mass Shooting Stars)- Some added size in the front court has Durkee more comfortable on the perimeter. He gave Team Twelve a taste of it in their semifinal loss. He finished the contest with 28 points including 3 treys. He's really developing into a special player. 

Nayshon Hamlet Forward (Rens)- His team didn't have a great weekend but Nayshon let his presence be known against the Playaz in a losing effort. The talented forward tallied 26 markers as the Rens pushed the eventual champs to the brink. 

Andrew Tuazama Forward (NC Runnin Rebels)- Big Drew made a name for himself with a 20 point performance in their loss to Team Takeover. His squad was a little under manned but he still went to the ring and gave a got fight. This kid is very athletic.

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic Highlights: Team RIO National (7th Grade)



Team RIO National came into the Tip Off Classic with big expectations and left with the title. They have a loaded crew and ran all the way to the championship of the 7th Grade White Division. Check out their work. Stay tuned as we have more Basketball Spotlight highlights coming. 

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Top Performers Part 1

Jahvon "Inferno" Quinerly (Playaz)

The Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Division of the Tip Off Classic was loaded with talent. Here’s Part 1 of Top Performers from this weekend. 

Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Top Performers Part 1 

 Jahvon Quinerly Guard (Playaz)- Wow, Quinerly started the season with a splash. The combo guard had his best outing against his former "Supreme Team teammates". Jahvon scorched Team IZOD for a game high 28 points including four deep treys. He had his all-around scoring game going. He finished at the tin, lit up the mid-range area and as mentioned earlier struck from behind the arc. He was by far the top overall performer of the weekend while leading them to the title. He heated up to the highest point that’s why his new name has to be Jahvon “Inferno” Quinerly.

Ja’Quaye James Guard (Playaz)- James received preseason acclaim with his play in other events but this was my first look at him running the Playaz Basketball Club. The ultra-quick point guard showed the flair for the dramatic by converting on three game winning buckets including two in the final seconds. He split the defense at will and seemed to set the tempo. He definitely has the keys to this high powered engine. It should be exciting him rock.


Justin Winston Forward (Playaz)- It was good to see Justin back on the floor healthy and he produced heavily. His best game was an explosive outing against the Rens which he tallied 25 points. He shows the versatility the make scouts love his potential. He hit the glass as the primary big man but also stepped out on the perimeter and showed some range. I would like to see him retool the form on his outside shot which should come in time.

Tavon Jones Guard (Playaz)- The first showdown with IZOD took a lot out of Quinerly and James so Jones stepped up during the semifinals against Team Final. The natural slasher showed a quick first step that he used to breeze past defenders. When Jones outside shot was falling he was even more dangerous. When his game is on it makes it even more difficult for the Playaz to lose.


Luther Muhammad Guard (Team IZOD)- This was my first look at Muhammad this season and he was impressive especially with his offensive improvements. He’s making the transition to point guard and though he’s a work in progress he showed good strides especially in transition. I also have to give kudos to his mid- range pull up which keeps the defense honest and makes it easier for him to finish at the rim. On defense he's still the guy the opponent's top gun doesn't want to see. 

Tyrek Chambers Guard (Team IZOD)- Chambers was primarily a spot up shooter last year but now he has got his driving game together. His handle has got tighter and he looks to be on better shape. This weekend he finished through contact and used the floater to avoid shot blockers. He must pick up the scoring void left by Quinerly.
Atiba Taylor Guard (Team IZOD)- It was Taylor’s first outing with his old team and he wasn’t spectacular but he had his moments. I like the fact that he was willing to do other things including rebounding inside. He also seemed to be comfortable sharing the point guard duties with Muhammad. All in all he still was able to make good basketball plays to help his team reach the finals. I see good things once he back in the rhythm with IZOD.

Shack Dezonie Forward (Team IZOD)- It was important for Shack to make the transition to the wing and he looks to be headed in the right direction. He was in a comfort zone when handling the rock and making decisions. He used his new skills to set up scoring opportunities along the baseline and in the lane. He also banged home a few outside shots. He needs now to work on moving he feet on defense so he can guard the wing position.

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 4th Grade Championship Recap: Riverside Hawks Soar!


Riverside Hawks

The 4th Grade Division championship featured a battle from the Big Apple as Riverside Hawks defeated Gauchos 49-36 to win the Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic. Congrats to the Riverside Hawks 4th Grade for getting the job done. We look forward to watching this group for the next few years.

Tip Off Classic Team Highlights: Team Final (8th Grade!)



Team Final made a strong run through a vigorous 8th Grade White Division and fell a few points short of the finals. Here are some of their highlights from this weekend. Stay tuned as we bring you more coverage from the 2013 Tip Off Classic. Pleas email team highlights to basketballspotlight@hotmail.com. Youtube format is preferred. 

Monday, December 9, 2013

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade White Division Championship Recap: Playaz Make Statement!

Playaz Basketball Club

The Playaz Basketball faced the toughest competition possible and ran the table to win the Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade White Division Championship. They defeated rival Team IZOD 59-42 to take home the trophy. The victory removed any doubt that the Playaz now represent the top 8th Grade team in the region.

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Orange Division Championship Recap: SHA Elite Gains The Crown!

SHA Elite AAU

SHA Elite used a big second half to defeat Team Twelve 50-44 and win the Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Orange Division Championship. Congrats to SHA Elite for winning a tough tournament and we look forward to seeing them again.

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade White Division Championship Recap: Team RIO Is For Real!

Team RIO National

Team RIO National lived up to the preseason hype by winning the Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade White Division championship over Team Takeover 40-33. The win pushes Team RIO to the front of the pack in the 7th Grade race to the Grand Finale. Congrats to Team RIO and we wish them luck the rest of the way.

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Orange Division Championship Recap: Choz Cruise To Crown!

Gauchos 7th Grade

Last year the Gauchos felt short of winning a Spotlight title but this year they started out on the right foot as defeated MJ Mavericks 52-25. The win gave the Choz the Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Orange Division Championship. Congrats to the Choz 7th graders for a job well done. Stay tuned as we bring you more coverage from the Tip Off Classic.

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 6th Grade Orange Division Championship: Gauchos Reign Again!

Gauchos Win Again!

The Gauchos showed they still run things by defeating KSK/IZOD 53-31 to win the Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 6th Grade Orange Division Championship. Congratulation to the Choz for winning the crown and taking the title back to the Bronx. Stay tuned as we bring you more coverage from the Tip Off Classic.

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 6th Grade Blue Division Championship Recap: Milbank Makes It Happen!

Milbank Cashes In

In a thrilling game Milbank Flyers defeated Team Scan 47-43 to win the Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 6th Grade Blue Division Championship. Congrats to Milbank for winning the championship and taking the title back to NY. Stay tuned as we bring you more coverage from the Tip Off Classic.

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 5th Grade Championship Recap: S. Elite Rises To Occassion!

S Elite Gets It Done

S Elite came down from Canada and took care of business as they defeated the Gauchos 31-27 to win the Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 5th Grade Championship. Congrats to S Elite for representing Canada and winning the title. Stay tuned as we bring you more coverage from the Tip Off Classic.

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic In The Books!


The Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic was sensational. We would like to congratulate the champions from each age group. Stay tuned as we bring you more information for this event. 

Event Champions 

8th Grade White Division 
Champions: Playaz Basketball Club 
Runner Up: Team IZOD 

8th Grade Orange Division 
Champions: SHA Elite 
Runner Up: Team 12 

7th Grade White Division 
Champions: Team RIO National 
Runner Up: Team Takeover 

7th Grade Orange Division 
Champions: Gauchos 
Runner Up: MJ Mavericks 

7th Grade Blue Division 
Champions: Hilltoppers Heat 
Runner Up: Brooklyn Kings 

6th Grade Orange Division 
Champions: Gauchos 
Runner Up: KSK 

6th Grade Blue Division 
Champions: Milbank 
Runner Up: Team Scan 

5th Grade Championship 
Champions: S Elite 
Runner Up: Gauchos 

4th Grade Championship 
Champions: Riverside Hawks 
Runner Up: Gauchos

Diary Of A Baller: Atiba Taylor Jr. (Hackensack, NJ) Entry #2

Atiba Taylor At The Tip Off Classic

So, this week was very busy for me. I had a lot of homework and studying to prepare for my tests and quizzes. I’m really trying to keep good grades and stay on top of my classwork because I know that the NCAA requirements have changed to a minimum of 2.5 GPA to receive an athletic scholarship. My basketball schedule is: Mondays is chill day. Tuesdays and Wednesdays I go to my basketball trainer and on Thursdays and Fridays I practice with my AAU team. Most of the time we play on weekends, if not we practice. 

This weekend was my team’s first tournament of the season. We played in the ‘BBallSpotlight Tip Off Classic’, which was very competitive. We competed against some of the best teams in our region and I believe we did pretty decent. A lot of teams have been playing since September and we only had three practices to prepare for it. We added two new players and as a team we’re still trying to get back the chemistry we had last season. Chemistry isn’t something that happens overnight, its something you get over time. I got a chance to play against two of my friends (Brandon and Myles) in the semi’s, from “Team Takeover’. We’ve been going at it since the 3rd grade and we always have tough battles but this time we got the “W” to take us to the championship game against ‘The NJ Playaz’. It was a close game, we were tied at halftime but we didn’t play well at all in the second half and ‘The Playaz’ took it from us. We will use our “L” as a learning experience for us to get better. We are “Team Izod”, we will bounce back from this and be more prepared. 

A lot of people are always talking about basketball rankings, luckily, I’ve been ranked on many basketball sites and that’s cool but it really doesn’t mean anything! On most sites I am ranked #1 or #2 PG in the country but I am just happy that people know my name or who I am, which is more important than anything. I really appreciate sites for noticing me but until you’re ranked on Rivals or ESPN it’s not official, hopefully, I will be one day! One thing I’ve noticed is regardless of how good I play its never enough. People don’t care about me leading my team to get a win or how many assists or rebounds I have, they only care about points and the game is much more than that. I can hear people in the crowd saying things about me but because I have an “X” on my back they expect me to be Superman every time I touch the ball. I’m only a 14-year-old kid still learning the game like everybody else. I’m built for the pressure so it doesn’t bother me what people say or think…I JUST LOVE THE GAME!

Atiba Taylor Jr. 


Thursday, December 5, 2013

Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Preview: The Gloves Are Off!

Is It The Playaz Time? 

The 8th Grade field at the Tip Off Classic has never been better. Its loaded from top to bottom and will be featuring some of the top players in America. Here's a list of teams to look for this weekend. 

Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Preview 

Playaz: The Playaz enter this event with the most team experience. They have played in several events leading up to the Tip Off Classic. Now they have the chance to show they are truly the elite team in the region. Their match up with Team IZOD on Sunday should be epic. 

Team Scan: The departures of Atiba Taylor and Nazi Reid would hurt most teams but I think Coach Munch will have something up his sleeves this weekend. The place will be packed and we will see if Team Scan can conquer this huge mountain. This could be Aaron Clarke's personal playground. 

Team IZOD: The return of Taylor and Reid along with the loaded crew they had makes IZOD a national power once again. They are looking to be labeled the "Supreme Team" again and a championship at the Tip Off Classic might be a move in the right direction. I can't wait to see Luther Muhammad and I'm hearing Tyrek Chambers is a beast right now. 

I 10 Celtics: Last time a team came to the Spotlight from California they dropped bombshells on the East Coast. I heard this group is loaded and looking to get revenge on IZOD from 20 point loss in Utah last year. We will see when they tip off Saturday night. I hear Antwain January is the name to know. 

NC Runnin Rebels: The #4 team in the country will be in Neptune. They better be ready for a dog fight once they exit the van. But you can't ever count out the two time NC State Champs. Andrew Tuazama brings the pain. 

Team Takeover: TT is coached by one of the best in the business in Keith Stevens. Their talent is through the roof and they should make a deep run in this event. Their Sunday match up with Team Scan should be something to watch. The Myles Dread and Donovan Toatley combination could be deadly.

Team Final: TF is here to show they are among the elite teams in the country. They have a tough hill to climb but they should be up for the task. They face Team Takeover from the gate so they better be ready. Cameron Reddiah should be ready to in this one. 

Rens: This battle tested group will go out swinging as we know. They get a taste of IZOD from the beginning which should take us back down memory lane. Nayshon Hamlet would be looking to show his skills.

Orange Division 

Mass Shooting Stars: Word is MS retooled on the front line. Now they should be threat to win it all. I have to be looked at as one of the favorites. 

WE R 1: Formerly ECE this group would love to start their season off with a Tip Off Classic Championship. This is very possible if everything comes together. 

Boston Spartans: The Spartans won the Blue Division MDC crown now they are looking for an Orange banner. They are known to rumble so these games should be right up their alley. 

New Heights: This group showed some promise last year now they should be ready to go over the top. They have the ability to be a dangerous team. 

SHA Elite: I saw this team early in the fall and if they get hot they could take home the crown. This is the type of team everyone hates to play.