Basketball Spotlight Summer Camp Report: Class 2015

Perry Dozier (Columbia, SC)

Basketball Spotlight has the privilege of covering some of the top young camps in the country. We decided to end the summer with our top performers we saw at these events by class. Here’s a breakdown of the Top Performers in the Class of 2015.

Class 2015 Top Camp Performers

1. Perry Dozier Guard (Columbia, SC)- Few can argue with this selection as Dozier put on exceptional performances at both the Jr. All American Camp and Adidas Jr. Phenom Camp. The point guard has both passing and scoring ability beyond his years. He totally dominated the All Star Game at the Jr. All American Camp and received top honors from several scouting services.

2. Mikey Dixon Guard (New Castle, DE)- Dixon held his own at the Jr. All American Camp but really blew up at the Hoop Group Jr. Elite Camp. The pint size guard dazzled the crowd with offensive prowess while frustrating opponents with his relentless defense including ball pressure. He took home MVP honors from this camp.

3. Tyler Dorsey Guard (California)- Dorsey’s performance in California was remarkable. The big time wing guard is tough to stop on this level. He scores at will from anywhere on the floor but flourishes more when attacking the basket. He finished ranked in the top 3 at Adidas Jr. Phenom.

4. Tywon Bressler Guard (Milwaukee, WI)- Bressler had a decent performance at the Jr. All American Camp but really showed his worth at the Generation Next Camp in Wisconsin. The point guard has a slick handle and sees the floor well. He also can score the ball when needed. He should be a name to know in the Wisconsin for years to come.

5. Herbie Ellis Guard (Trenton, NJ)- Once Ellis got comfortable at the Jr. All American Camp he game picked up. He got things done on the floor such as hitting jumpers and scoring in transition. He made the Jr. All American Camp All Star Game.

Elite 80 List Coming Sept. 5th

A list of players that are invited to this primetime event will be posted September 5th. if you are interested please email me at basketballspotlight@hotmail.com or call me 609-532-5122. This event will only take 80 participants. So reserve your spot quickly. No walk ups will be alllowed.

The Basketball Spotlight Elite 80 Expo will bring together 80 players from the Class of 2013 for a weekend of high level basketball. The players will be placed on 8 teams and compete in a tournament style competition with a champion crowned. Each player will receive a full uniform and compete in 5 games throughout the weekend. All players must be referred by a coach or basketball administrator to attend. To request an application contact Mike Melton at Basketballspotlight@hotmail.com

Event: Basketball Spotlight Elite 80 Expo
Date: Dec. 6th and 7th 2008
Place: Central Jersey
Price: $200 (Per Player)

Reasons To Attend

· Equal Playing Time For Every Player
· Possible Referral To National All American Camps
· Every Player Will Get A Profile For Basketball Spotlight
· Compete Against The Best Players In The Country
· State Your Claim As The Best Prospect

For More Info Contact Mike at basketballspotlight@hotmail.com

Basketball Spotlight Headed to Kentucky

The State of Kentucky has been known to have a rich basketball tradition. We will find out first hand as we head to Lexington, Kentucky to check out some of the best young talent in the state. While we are in Kentucky we will be visiting Hoop Dreamers Academy. Hoop Dreamers Academy is operated by Mike Scott a former Eastern Kentucky star whose prize pupil is Chris Lofton the former star of the University of Tennessee. Hoop Dreamers Academy specializes in player development and teaching the team concept to players. Hoop Dreamers Academy is located in Lexington, Kentucky and has been said to have the best young talent in the Blue Grass State. We fly out Thursday and will be giving a daily report of our trip including a breakdown of top prospects we encounter. You can visit Hoop Dreamers website at

http://www.hoopdreamers.com/Index.html

Basketball Spotlight 10U AAU Regional Report

Team Battle #1

The time has come where we rank the Top 10 teams in our region. Our ranking criterion includes state and regional finishes, top tournaments attended, head to head competition and AAU national play. All facets of this criterion will be looked at when ranking the teams. We also will be listing the MVP of the summer and other awards. Here’s a look at 10U Division.

Basketball Spotlight Tri-State Top 10

1. Team Battle- Team Battle got the nod after winning the NJ State crown, Basketball Spotlight MDC, Riverside Hawks tourney, Team Kobe Classic and the USBA NJ tournament. They went to the AAU Nationals and advanced out of pool play into the championship bracket. They were eliminated after losing some close games. Regionally they were the force to be reckoned with.

2. F.A.C.E.S- Rob Cole’s boys finished runner up in the NJ State tournament and the Basketball Spotlight MDC. They really showed their game when they went to the AAU Nationals and finished 3rd in the Classic Bracket which caused them to finished ranked 15th in the country. Next year they should be even more deadly.

3. Gauchos (Williams)- The Gauchos finished 2nd in the Metropolitan region and participated in some high level events throughout the season. They also had a got nationals showing on the D2 level where they advanced out of pool play and eventually finished #8 nationally. I hope to see more of them next season.

4. New Heights- New Heights won the MLK Classic and the Metropolitan District crown. In the MDC they loss a tough game to upset minded KBR. They have some good talent and coaching which means they will be back for some more work next year. It will be interesting as AD Kimani Young has lef for a college job at St. Johns.

5. Riverside Hawks- The Hawks made it to the finals of their tournament but didn’t have a good showing at the MDC cause their squad was a little depleted. RH rebounded by winning the Game Over classic which featured some tough ball clubs. If they keep their squad together they should be difficult to beat next year.

6. Playtime Basketball- This new team finished 3rd in NJ and made it to the semifinals of the MDC. They didn’t run from the comp as they competed in some weight tourneys. They entered the D2 Nationals and won their pool. They loss the first round of the championship bracket and then were eliminated after losing to the Gauchos.

7. KBR Raptors- KBR finished 4th in NJ and came within a few points of making it to the MDC finals. This tough ball club didn’t duck any top teams and competed in the D1 Nationals. This is the team no one wants to see in their pool. They will be back next season.

8. Delaware Finest Stars- The Delaware squad must have won or placed in a Super Regional because they weren’t listed as a top 4 finisher in their regional tourney. They then showed this wasn’t a fluke after going to the D2 Nationals and finished #9 in the nation.

9. Gauchos - I got a chance to see the Gauchos at the Game Over Classic when they made it to the finals. I like the talent they possess on this team and wish I would have got a chance to see more of them.

10. ALL Ball All Stars- I didn’t get a chance to see this team play but they did when the Mid Atlantic regional crown which gives them an automatic spot in our top 10.

Player Of The Year

Tyus Battle (Team Battle)- Mr. Memorial Day won many MVP honors throughout this season. The long point guard turned on his best play when his team needed him most. He stepped up big in many of the elite games and helped pull his team over the hump. This kid can be really special one day if he continues to work hard and practice his craft. One thing is very certain which is he knows how to win.

Superman Award


RJ Cole (F.A.C.E.S)- Cole got this award because not only did he play but performed on a high level in 3 age groups. The southpaw has remarkable range and will run the team under his father’s command. He put on a show at times for the 11U squad at the MDC and carried the 10u team to the finals. When you realize that he is only 9 this is serious.

New Comer Of The Year

Sa’eed Nelson (NJ Shore Shots)- Nelson burst on the scene from Atlantic City and took this age bracket by storm. The blur with the rock zipped past numerous defenders and finished plays at the basket. He has blazing speed and point guard instincts that are natural. He should be fun to watch for a few years.

Basketball Spotlight ALL Summer Team

Tyus Battle (Team Battle)-
Chase Barneys (Team Battle)
Jamir Harris (Team Battle)
Joey Krempa (Team Battle)
Edriese Patterson (Team Battle)
RJ Cole (FACES)
Ray Montilous (FACES)
Azzur Taylor (FACES)
Brandon Anderson (FACES)
Javon Reis-Wilson (FACES)
Tylynn Johnson (Playtime)
MJ Richardson (Playtime)
Terrell Bonner (Playtime)
Kenny Pickett (KBR)
Keri Kirkwood (KBR)
Cami Calderon (KBR)
Christian Ford (KBR)
Sa’eed Nelson (NJ Shore Shots)
Ramel Powell (LI Lightning)
Billy Bell (LI Lightning)
Romello Rashard (Gauchos)
George Pena (Gauchos)
Brandon Randolph (Gauchos)
LeAndre Washington (Riverside Hawks)
Jason Cam (Riverside Hawks)
Shamorie Pond (Riverside Hawks)

Zoo Crew Summer League Recap

Shacore Edwards Was Impressive At Zoo Crew Summer League

I took a trip to the Zoo Crew Summer League in Newark, NJ and saw some of the playoff action. This gave us a chance to see some of the top 14 and Under players in the State of NJ. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top players we encountered in the Brick City.

Zoo Crew Top Performers

Shacore Edwards Guard (NJ Panthers)- Edwards was the top offensive player I saw at the Zoo Crew league. The silky smooth wing guard scored with ease in transition including changing his shot to avoid trailing defenders that wanted to block his shot. He also had a deep jumper flowing especially from behind the arc even on the double rim courts.

Aaron Bodie Forward (NJ Panthers)- Bodie is a very special athlete that can leap quickly which he demonstrated when he caught a follow up dunk. He runs the floor well and can be an effective rebounder when he’s in attack mode. Offensively he needs a lot of work with his footwork and touch around the basket. But right now you can’t teach his size 6’5 or his athleticism. He showed a be on the high school radar in 2 years.

Nikko Velez Guard ((NJ Panthers)- Velez is a good looking with some attributes. He has good size and court vision. He handles the rock and knows when to pick his spot to attack. Entering high school he must be conscious of taking care of his body and not to pack on any weight. I also think he will need to improve his explosiveness going to the hole.

Niko Kotoulas Forward (NJ Panthers)- Kotoulas has German decent and plays a European type game. He has good size and the fundamentals that stand out in the type of setting. He will need to pack on some pounds once he hits high school but I like his feel for the game. He reminds me of a young Tony Kukoc.

William Smith Forward (NJ Panthers)- Smith is undersized for a future power forward but he does has some physical attributes. He rebounds the basketball and will convert some points in the paint. I didn’t see much of his game away from the cup.

Zahir Bembry Guard (NJ Panthers)- The youngster showed some promise running the team. He hit the gaps to get to the basket and dropped off a few dimes. He has good body control and knows how to turn the speed on and off when he needs to.

Rodney Wilson Guard (Bayonne Mean Machine)- Wilson showed me some things even though his team loss badly. He has good size at the guard spot and created opportunities when he attacked the cup. Rodney got past the guards and finished over the big men with floaters. When the shot blockers over reacted he went right past them to score at the rim.

Kavon Stewart Guard (Paterson Plus)- Stewart struggled early as the double rims weren’t kind to his floater or jumper. He also had some uncharacteristic turnovers when passes were tipped or teammates weren’t ready. But when he came money time he proved why he’s one of the best guards around as he took over the game on both ends. He forced turnovers by pressuring the rock and made plays by either scoring, passing or getting to the charity stripe. He hit some big free throws down the stretch.

Errol McCarthy Forward (Paterson Plus)- I saw this kid with one of the older Playaz teams before. Today he was a problem inside for Tha Ballers. His size made it difficult for them to score inside and led to some transition opportunities for Paterson.

Jeffrey Ellerbee Guard (Paterson Plus)- Ellerbe is a lefty that played hard defense and ran the floor for easy buckets. I like his quickness and scoring awareness on the floor. He knows how to find the hole.

Nashian Brimely Guard (Paterson Plus)- Nashian is another scoring guard from this squad. He enjoys slashing through the lane for buckets. His speed also helps him get out on the break in front of the opposition.

Naji Newman Guard (Paterson Plus)- Newman has the size of a guard but doesn’t handle the rock as much as the others. He makes his living roaming the baseline and finishing after receiving passes.

Alex Similien Forward (Tha Ballers)- Alex did the scoring inside for the Linden boys. His Charles Barkley type play was very effective as he moved bodies and maneuvered his shot to avoid shot blockers. He’s not tall but he knows how to use the rim and backboard to convert.

Jaquan Matthews Guard (Tha Ballers)- Matthews ran the point and held off the Paterson pressure the best he could. He made some good decisions with the rock and scored for his squad he asked.

Jahad Harris Forward (Tha Ballers)- Harris was a force inside when he applied himself. He knows how to get position and has good hands. When he gets a mean streak and understands he could dominate he will be even better.

Basketball Spotlight AAU 11U Regional Region

King Street Kings

The time has come where we rank the Top 10 teams in our region. Our ranking criterion includes state and regional finishes, top tournaments attended, head to head competition and AAU national play. All facets of this criterion will be looked at when ranking the teams. We also will be listing the MVP of the summer and other awards. Here’s a look at 11U Division. This age division was one of the toughest to rank.

Basketball Spotlight Tri-State Top 10

1. Kings Street Kings- The Kings of NJ won the State crown for 11 and Under Division 1 and 12 and Under Division 2. They also won the Kobe Dream Classic, AAU Super Regional, Riverside Hawks Tourney and Game Over Classic. They also finished runner up at the MDC and advanced out of pool play at the Nationals.

2. Harvest Knights- From the mid season to after the MDC the Knights pounded the competition on the hardwood. The MDC Champs had mean guard play and the inside scoring to handle just about anyone. The run got cut short at the nationals were they were disqualified for adding an ineligible player to their roster.

3. Riverside Hawks- Riverside won the Metropolitan title in blow out fashion and competed in some other top tourneys throughout the country. This was the flagship group of the resurging program that ruled years ago. They won their pool at the nationals and advanced deep into the 1st round consolation bracket.

4. Gauchos- The Gauchos won the Metropolitan D2 crown and the Show Me Invitational which had a decent field. They went to the AAU D2 Nationals and advanced to the Final Four. They have a very exciting team to watch and should continue to put a dent in region next year.

5. Long Island Lightning- The Lightning finished runner up at the Metropolitan Regionals and at the Game Over Classic to name a few. They’ve been a house hold name for a couple of years and should continue that success in the future.

6. Delaware Elite- The Delaware Elite won the Mid Atlantic Regional which was not as strong this year. They also went to the D1 nationals and made it to the Final Four of the Classic bracket. They probably would have been ranked a little higher if they strength of schedule was a little better.

7. Hollis Biddies (ILOY)- The Hollis Biddies had an impressive run at the MDC coming within 2 points of making the championship. They went down to the nationals and were placed in the classic bracket but went to work making it to the Elite 8 round.

8. F.A.C.E.S- The Newark squad played with a lot of energy this year and made it to the semifinals of the MDC. They had some good inside play but lacked the experienced guards to make the move to the elite level. Some key additions helped them perform better towards the end of the season.

9. Team MVP- The Trenton based squad begun the season with a championship at the MLK Classic when they were the Trenton Hurricanes. They went on to have a decent season and finished runner up in NJ State Tournament.

10. Linden Ballers- The Baller’s strength of scheduled helped them crack the Top 10. They brought their game to just about every top tournament in the Northeast. When teams faced them they were in a slugfest.

Players Of The Year

New Jersey

Temple Gibbs (King Street Kings)- The KSK organization doesn’t like individual accolades but we couldn’t deny that Gibbs got the job done when we were in the building. The lead guard used his strength and mean streak along with skill set to do just about anything on the floor. His play was something serious throughout the state tournament and the MDC. NJ get ready for Gibbs 3.

Middle Atlantic Region

Malik Ellison (Harvest Knights)- Mr. Memorial Day is something special once he hits the hardwood. His moves a very precise and you can see the maturity in his game. He lives for the moment and is willing to make big plays when his team needs it. New Jersey might be looking at their next mega star of the future. The game is there, the genes are there and the exposure will definitely be there. Ready or not here he comes.

Metropolitan Region

Jaquan McKennon (Gauchos)- The kid Shake and Bake does have some flash to his game but you can’t get made because he kills you with substance. His ability to score from the guard position is something no team can take for granted. He literally can take a game over offensively once he gets in a groove. He’s worth the price of admission.

Basketball Spotlight ALL Summer Team

ALL New Jersey

Temple Gibbs (KSK)
Byrce Aiken (KSK)
Otis Livingston (KSK)
Justin Salem (KSK)
Trey Lowe (Team MVP)
James Wright (Team MVP)
Herbie Ellis (Team MVP)
Jason Peoples (Linden Ballers)
Isiah Stills (Linden Ballers)
Kyle Phipps (Linden Ballers)
RJ Cole (FACES)
Brian Brown (FACES)
Austin Goodluck (FACES)
Nyrique Smith (Asbury Park)
Pat Sheenan (JSL Hoops)
Miles Powell (CJ Future Stars)
Tyler Jones (CJ Future Stars)
Jack Laffy (Bayshore Bulldogs)
Jack Byrnes (Bayshore Bulldogs)
Nick Lubisher (Bayshore Bulldogs)

All Metropolitan Region

Josh Wallace (Hollis Biddies)
Elijah McNeely-Davy (Hollis Biddies)
Justin Roberts (LI Lightning)
Gianni Ford (LI Lightning)
Cheyenne Nettleton (LI Lightning)
Jaquan McKennon (NYC Gauchos)
Desure Buie (NYC Gauchos)
Boz Bernstein (NYC Gauchos)
Kai Mitchell (NYC Gauchos)
Mike Williams (Riverside Hawks)
Ty Jerome (Riverside Hawks)
Thomas Capuano (Riverside Hawks)
Eric Paschal (Riverside Hawks)

All Middle Atlantic

Malik Ellison (Harvest Knights)
Trevaughn Wilkerson (Harvest Knights)
Ray Lawry (Harvest Knights)
Isiah Baylor (Harvest Knights)
Steven Jordan (Philly Aztecs)
Jahmil Harris (Philly Aztecs)

Note: I didn’t get a chance to see many Mid Atlantic teams play in this age group.

Basketball Spotlight 12U AAU Regional Report

Delaware Hawks

The time has come where we rank the Top 10 teams in our region. Our ranking criterion includes state and regional finishes, top tournaments attended, head to head competition and AAU national play. All facets of this criterion will be looked at when ranking the teams. We also will be listing the MVP of the summer and other awards. Here’s a look at 12U Division.

Basketball Spotlight Tri-State Top 10

1. Delaware Hawks- The Hawks finished #6 in the nation and had a terrific run this year. They won their regional crown for the 4th time and took home the championship in the Spring Fling, DC Assault Classic and Charm City Classic. They faced many of the top teams in the region and came out on top in many of the encounters. The earned this number 1 spot.

2. Gauchos- The Gauchos stormed through their region again and also won the Blow Up Tourney and MLK Classic among others. Down at the 12U Nationals they made a deep run advancing to the Elite 8 before falling. They finished #13 in the country when it was said and done. They were fun to watch.

3. Team Underrated- The MDC Champs also won the Metropolitan Districts D2 title.They also won te Game Over Classic and the IS8. They have some key pieces and will be making some noise for years to come. They played a few D1 teams and gave them the business, so don’t be mistaken by them playing D2. I like their style.

4. King Street Kings- KSK had an impressive resume this season. They won numerous tournaments including the NJ State Title, Hoop Group Round Ball Classic, Delaware Super Regional and Team Kobe Classic. They also finished runner-up at the Basketball Spotlight MDC, DC Assault Classic and Game Over Classic.

5. Youth Interlock (Team Nelson)- Youth Interlock finished 2nd in their regional and made it to the semifinals at the MDC. I was really impressed with them at the 12U Nationals. The boys from Chester knuckled up and made it to the Sweet 16. They showed tremendous heart. It will be interesting to see them next year.

6. Team Kobe- Team Kobe showed flashes early in the season at the Feb. Maryland Invitational. They have one of the top players in the region in Brandon Austin and they also made some serious noise at the Nationals. The finished 12th in the country.

7. Riverside Hawks- The Hawks finished runner up in their regional tourney and made advanced out of pool play at the nationals. The fought hard in many tournaments and were always a team to be reckoned with.

8. Long Island Trotters- The Trotters were a tough team to beat and carry one of the top players in the region in Thomas Holley. They represented themselves well at the MDC and advanced out of pool play at the 12U Nationals.

9. Westchester Hawks- The Westchester Hawks probably would have been higher on our ranking if their squad would have stayed together longer. They lost some key players mid way through the season which hurt their chances at the nationals.

10. NJ Pirates- The Pirates rugged style helped them finish 2nd in New Jersey. They also played well and made it to the semifinals at the Blow Up Tourney. If they can keep their squad together they can continue to grow for years to come.

Player Of The Year

Wa’mere Murphy (Delaware Hawks)- The Hawks flew past competitors all year and Murphy was the main catalyst getting it done. His athletic play along the baseline and in the lane proved to be too much for the opposition. He scores with ease and can be relentless on the boards at times. He also seemed when the games got bigger Wa’mere performed bigger on the stage.

Newcomer Of The Year
Brandon Austin (Team Kobe)- This Austin’s first year playing and he attracted much attention. The 6’2 guard had to play the post position because of the lack of size Team Kobe possessed inside. But when he got a chance to take defenders on the perimeter it was curtains. Next season he should be even better with a year of experience under his belt.

Basketball Spotlight All Summer Teams

ALL Mid Atlantic Region

Wa’mere Murphy (Delaware Hawks)
Austin Tilgman (Delaware Hawks)
Jorge Rodriquez (Delaware hawks)
Brandon Austin (Team Kobe)
CJ Wolfe (Team Kobe)
Malik Smith (Team Kobe)
Sheppard Gardner (Youth Interlock)
Mahir Johnson (Youth Interlock)
Andre Merrell (Chester Pride)
Trevion Anderson (Chester Pride)
Lewis Todd (God’s Property)

ALL New Jersey

Mike Silverthorn (King Street Kings)
Dylan Elliot (King Street Kings)
Austin White (King Street Kings)
Nassir Barrino (NJ Pirates)
Isiah Briscoe (NJ Pirates)
Al Jahaad Bradford (NJ Pirates)
Chance Ellis (NJ Pirates)
Kyle Carrington (JSL Hoops)
Maurice Diawara (JSL Hoops)
Deante Cole (Trenton B&G)
Wade Baldwin (Trenton B&G)
Tarin Smith (Team Boss)
Matt Forst (Team Boss)
Jake Dadika (CJ Jammers)

All Metropolitan Region

Malachai Richardson (Gauchos)
Tiquan Givens (Gauchos)
Dakari Johnson (Gauchos)
Steven Bush (Gauchos)
Joshua James (Gauchos)
Chris Davis (Team Underrated)
Timmie Quashie (Team Underrated)
Stephen Pitts (Team Uderrated)
Thomas Holley (LI Trotters)
James Richardson (Westchester Hawks)
Cheddi Mosley (Westchester Hawks)
Matt Blackwell (Westchester Hawks)
Jerron Love (New Heights)
Shavar Newkirk (Riverside Hawks)
Koree Hargraves (Riverside Hawks)

Basketball Spotlight 13U AAU Regional Report

Playaz Basketball Club

The time has come where we rank the Top 10 teams in our region. Our ranking criterion includes state and regional finishes, top tournaments attended, head to head competition and AAU national play. All facets of this criterion will be looked at when ranking the teams. We also will be listing the MVP of the summer and other awards. Here’s a look at 13U Division.

Basketball Spotlight Tri-State Top 10

1. Playaz Basketball Club- PBC got the nod at the #1 spot because they played in many if the top tourneys while taking home titles from the NJ State Tournament, Blow Up Tourney, Game Over Classic and a few others. In the MDC they loss a nail biter to a team that was later disqualified for ineligible players. They definitely got busy this year.

2. NY Panthers- The Panthers won the Metropolitan Regional crown and made appearances in just about every top tourney in the region. They also placed runner up in several events including the Basketball Spotlight MDC and Game Over Classic. They came into the season very underrated from our standpoint but made a serious themselves.

3. Educated Athletes- Educated Athletes reclaimed their Mid Atlantic crown and didn’t suffer many losses throughout the region this year. They also represented at the AAU Nationals by advancing out of their pool into the championship bracket. They will be a force again next year.

4. Long Island Lightning- The LI Lightning finished 2nd in their region while also making semifinal runs during the MDC and the Kobe Classic. Their strength of schedule was very impressive and it helped them advance out of pool play at the nationals and into the championship bracket.

5. NY Gauchos- The Gauchos started the season with a championship at the MLK Classic and finished runner up at the highly touted King James Classic in Ohio. They have some star studded players and should make a strong region push next year. Keep an eye on Shaquille Davis he should be a good one. The Gauchos will be appearing in the 2009 MDC.

6. Trenton Hurricanes- The Canes hung around in numerous tournaments but didn’t get over the hump until winning the MDC which was loaded with every top team in the region. Their strength of schedule was okay and they qualified for the nationals. Winning the MDC really boasted their ranking.

7. Penn Jersey Jaguars- The Jaguars finished runner up in their region and won the Kobe Dream Classic. The hard working squad probably could have been ranked a little higher if their strength of schedule was higher. They are always dangerous on the floor. Hopefully next year we will see them in the fire more.

8. Linden Ballers- The Ballers hard-nosed style helped them finish runner up in the NJ State Tournament. They played in some serious tournaments and represented themselves well. The leave it all on the floor every time they touch the hardwood.

9. Peacemakers- The Philly squad made some noise at the nationals after finishing 3rd in their regional tournament. They also won the Philly Finest tournament and had a good showing in the God’s Property Classic. They have some serious talent and they should be on the horizon soon.

10. Westchester Hawks- I got a chance to see Westchester at the Maryland Invitational and the Rebounds Super Regional. They have a tight unit with some decent talent. I will have an eye for them next year.

Player Of The Year
Matthew Johnson (Playaz)- The Playaz won quite a few tourneys and Johnson was the catalyst on many of them. The point guard directed traffic and made some big plays for this talented ball club. His improvement on his outside shot and defensive intensity took his game and confidence to another level. Johnson will need this play to continue as he will be entering high school next year.

Basketball Spotlight ALL Summer Teams

ALL New Jersey

Matthew Johnson (Playaz)
Kavon Stewart (Playaz)
Reggie Cameron (Playaz)
Joshua Marquez (Playaz)
Rasoul Holland (NJ Shore Shots)
Keith Kirkwood (NJ Shore Shots)
Keyshawn Rice (NJ Shore Shots)
Nate King (Trenton Hurricanes)
Mychal Corbit (Linden Ballers)
Tyrice Beverette (Asbury Park Rec.)
Travis Rocida (Camp Pocono Trailblazers)
Drew Corsi (Bayshore Bulldogs)
Shacore Edwards (Shooting Stars)

ALL Metropolitan Region

Mariga Clarke (NY Panthers)
Maynard Grant (NY Panthers)
Jason Boswell (LI Lightning)
Dave Henry (LI Lightning)
Isiah Lewis (LI Lightning)
Shaquille Davis (Gauchos)
Leroy Floyd (Gauchos)
Eligah Davis (Gauchos)
Diamonte Zarba (Westchester Hawks)
Jamie Jefferson (Westchester Hawks)
Andrew Sawyer (Westchester Hawks)
Davone Regan (NY Patriots)

All Middle Atlantic Region

Jaquan Johnson (Educated Athletes)
Jakari Rowe (Educated Athletes)
Conrad Chambers (Educated Athletes)
Wilson Murray (Educated Athletes)
Steven Griffin (PJ Jaguars)
Mike Sturdivant (PJ Jaguars)
Lequan Coaxum (PJ Jaguars)
Britton Lee (Peacemakers)
Shafeek Taylor (Peacemakers)
Dean Wilson (Delaware Hawks)
Dhamer Bradley (Delaware Hawks)

Diary Of A Baller: Kyle Anderson Entry #26

What's up everyone, its Kyle Anderson here to fill everyone in on how my last two weeks went. This week was A long one but very exciting. In last my last entry I wrote about how I just came back from Las Vegas. Also, about how we took the 15U Adidas Super 64 Tournament Championship. This week I was on my way to 14U Nationals in Orlando, Florida with my other AAU team the Long Island Lightning and my main man Myles Davis. I'm going to do this A little bit different this time and start from Friday's plane ride down. We got down there on Friday and had to go straight to registration. After registration we went back to are house, got dressed, and went to the opening ceremony. The ceremony was boring like every other one, but I saw all the teams so there was some point in going, LOL.

The next day we had our first game against A team from Maryland. The game was close at first but we opened it up to A 20point lead in the 3rd quarter. After the game we went home and got A lot of rest. We had A tough game the next day against the Drew Gooden Soldiers from Oakland, California. A lot of the kids on their team were hittin' me up talkin' about how they're going to blow us out and all that. We took that to heart and went hard. We jumped out on them early and led by about 15 the whole game. I had 12 points in 3 quarters but the 4th quarter I suffered some consequences due to my behavior. We were up by 17, but after I came out we only won by 5. I was pretty upset. The next day was our last pool play game which was an easy blowout, but I played pretty bad because of foul trouble.

Now the playoffs are here and it was time for straight business. The first team we played was A team from St. Louis. They were A tough team but they just didn't have enough guns to beat us. That was our late game since we got A bye to the 2nd round. Second day of playoffs in nationals and we were in the Suite 16. We came across A team from New Jersey, Hoop Haven. A team that has been highly under estimated through out the tournament. They jumped out on us which was scary at first, but we picked it up in the 3rd quarter and came out with the win. The next morning was the tough one. DC Assault in the Elite 8 at 11AM, A TOUGH ONE! We had A good nights rest and was ready to ball. The courts were all turned into 1 big court, so the lights were definitely on. We jumped out on them with our foot on their throats early. At halftime we were probably up by about 13 points. In the 3 rd quarter 2 3PT field goals cut the lead to 7. It got A little nerve racking, but everything was taken care of. We came out with the W by 13. Big win! The next on list was the Southern Kings for the Final Four. For some reason no one was really to excited for that game but we still won big. I think 20 or something. Finally, after two years I'm back in the national championship. The lights were definitely on now. We played New Orleans Panthers Select, who has the number 2 rated pg in the country. I was number 1. What A match up! The game was even half way through the contest with The Panthers up 2 at half time 32-30.

Now this is my last game with the Long Island Lightning, and I decided that I was not going out A loser. Being that Myles Davis had 20 points in the first half and 6 in the second and I could see his shots weren't fallin' I decided if I want to win then in the fourth quarter I must score. I scored 10 points in the last quarter of play knocking down 4 straight free throws and guiding my team to A 59 - 54 win and another National Championship. It was A beautiful thing to pick up my second National Championship. Also, I picked up my second straight Las Vegas Chip this summer (Last year with the Playaz we won the Nike Main Event 14U Chip). Now you could say what you want about me being slow and I can't shoot, but I know that I'm A winner. That's all that matters! Now I just got off the plane and its time for me to go to sleep for the day. I'm going to Myles Davis house for A party later on tonight. So, PEACEEE ! ! ! !

Yung..K-A

Basketball Spotlight 14U AAU Regional Report

Long Island Lightning Finished #1

The time has come where we rank the Top 10 teams in our region. Our ranking criterion includes state and regional finishes, top tournaments attended, head to head competition and AAU national play. All facets of this criterion will be looked at when ranking the teams. We also will be listing the MVP of the summer and other awards. First we will take a look at 14U Division.

Basketball Spotlight Tri-State 14U Top 10

1. Long Island Lightning- What’s else needs to be said the Lightning won the National Title. They also won the Kobe Classic, Breakdown Classic and Game Over Classic among others. They squad consist of some of the top players in the region and they have top notch coaching. This team has been together for years and have 2 National Titles and numerous Top 10 national finishes. They were the undisputed #1 team.

2. Team Philly Finest- Team Philly won their regional crown again and competed in nearly every top tourney in the region. They have a championship crowns or runner up trophies from just about every event and finished #6 at the AAU Nationals. The only team in the region that gave them serious problems was the #1 LI Lightning. Unlike other 14U teams I think this unit might stick together for years to come.

3. New Heights Red- This squad burst on the scene this year as the Harlem Kings. They won several tournaments including the MDC, NY Shock Exchange and a few others. They also had deep runs in the Maryland Invitational and Spring Fling. They knocked off some quality teams in their first year of existence.

4. Chester Panthers- The Panthers finished runner up in the Middle Atlantic region and won the Rebounds Super Regional. They also went to the 14 U Nationals, advanced into the championship bracket and had a good showing. They have a host of talent they should keep Chester high loaded for years.

5. CJ Hawks- The kings of NJ won the State Championship and the Rebounds Presidents Day Classic among others. They also showed ran deep in a few other tournaments in the region including the Hoop Group TOC. They have been very solid for years.

6. MSU Skyliners- The Skyliners didn’t win as many titles as the year before but they did compete in just about every big time tournament in the region. They made some semifinal appearances in the NJ State Tourney, MDC and We Got Next tourney among others. They also competed in the AAU Nationals and advanced to the championship bracket.

7. Gauchos- The Metropolitan Regional Runnerup wasn’t really on the scene in the region as much as the past but they still represented themselves well. They made the trip to Orlando and advanced out of pool play into the championship bracket.

8. Playaz- The Playaz didn’t have the success they were accustomed to in the past but did finish the season strong. They won the Blow Up tourney and made it to the finals of the Hoop Group TOC and NY Shock Exchange.

9. New Heights Blue- NH started the season with a spark but never seemed to have their full roster together at the same time. They made a semifinal run at the MDC and showed some toughness in other outings.

10. KBR Kings- The Jersey party crashers finished 2nd in NJ and competed in several tournaments around the region. Their toughness could not be denied.

Players Of The Year Awards

Middle Atlantic Region

Amile Jefferson (Team Philly Finest)- Jefferson was probably the most consistent player in the region. His team competed in just about everything and Jefferson brought his game each time out. The wiry forward did damage against all the top competition and finished with MVP or All Tournament honors on a regular basis. Look out Philly high school scene here he comes.

New Jersey

Hunter Wyscoki (CJ Hawks)- Wyscoki was the catalyst on the NJ State champs and used his size and versatility to put up good numbers and propel his team to victories. The 6’4 two-guard plays with great intensity and should be a name to know in the coming years in the Shore Conference. I will be wathcing as a fan.

Metropolitan Region

Nkeurwen Okoro (LI Lightning)- When you look at the National Champs you have to check out Okoro’s game. The versatile wing player used his size and play making prowess to get the job done. His play did not go unnoticed as he earned an invite to Reebok U Camp after a strong showing at the Headliner Camp. He has star wriiten all over him if he continues to work hard.

New Comer Of The Year

Thaddeus Hall (New Heights Red)- I didn’t see Hall rock until this year and I have to say he impressed me each time out. The lefty put up enormous numbers in every event and took home Mr. Memorial Day Honors at the Basketball Spotlight MDC. He also will be a name to remember once he enters high school.
Basketball Spotlight ALL Summer Teams



Basketball Spotlight All Region Teams

ALL Mid Atlantic Region

Amile Jefferson (Team Philly Finest)
Andre Horne (Team Philly Finest)
Maurice Watson (Team Philly Finest)
Karon Davis (Team Philly Finest)
Ryan Archadocono (PA Playaz)
Savon Goodman (Team Final)
Kareem Robinson (Chester Panthers)
Derrick Stewart (Chester Panthers)
Paris Higgs (Chester Panthers)
Khyree Wooten (Philly Panthers)

ALL New Jersey

Hunter Wysocki (CJ Hawks)
Eric Shaw (CJ Hawks)
Brian Kenny (CJ Hawks)
Dallas Anglin (Playaz)
Montana Mayfield (Playaz)
Jahmal Lane (MSU Skyliners)
Ahmid Williams (MSU Slyliners)
Kyle Anderson (LI Lightning)
Ike Calderon (KBR Kings)
Ron Paden (CJ Hornets)

ALL Metropolitan Region

Nkeurwen Okoro (LI Lightning)
Daniel Dinlge (LI Lightning)
Thaddeus Hall (New Heights)
Dennis Green (New Heights)
Trey Dickerson (New Heights)
Labrent Walker (D One Sports)
Omar Calhoun (D One Sports)
Javon Thomas (Gauchos)
Dashawn Suber (Rich Soil)
Rashard Andrews (NY Pythons)