After reading my mailbag question about the best middle school player I ever saw, I was reminded of Lance Stephenson. I first saw Stephenson as a 7th Grader playing 17 and Under at the Rumble in the Bronx. The next summer as a rising 9th grader he locked up with OJ Mayo for a memorable showdown at Reebok’s ABCD 2005 Camp. This was one of Stephenson’s final events before entering high school. I was in the building and the buzz was crazy. The video will tell the story.
Showcase Report: “Mister” Cowan has been on the national scene for some time now. At the Super Showcase he proved his was worth the national rep. His quickness and cleaver ball handling makes him one of the top penetrators in America. He will definitely be a high impact player for years to come.
As you know through our polls we at Basketball Spotlight like to have the fan input. We decided to take it to another level. We have developed the Melton’s Mailbag. The Melton Mailbag will contain 4 questions from you the fans that we will post and answer on our page. We will pick the four questions we feel are the best.
Scott From Greensville, North Carolina:
Mike now that you covered the 12U Nationals this past season, who would you regard as the best Class of 2016 player in the country?
Scott that’s a tough one because right now there are 3 kids that I feel have a chance to be #1 in the class. There’s Khalea Turner (LA Primetime), Harry Giles (Team Felton) and Tyus Battle (Team Final). It’s too close right now to number them but they are my top 3 players. I'm glad I have two more summers before I have to handle that ranking.
Brian From Bridgeport, CT
Mike what’s up with a showcase for the baby baller ages? Everything is for the older players. The little ones have a lot of love for the Spotlight.
Brian we will be launching a showcase type event for those youngster this summer. Expect a press release to come very soon. Thanks for the support and we got love for the baby ballers also.
Aaron From Philadelphia, PA
Mike how was Floyd Preito not ranked among your top 75 players in the region? Please tell me this was a mistake.
Aaron, you are right sometimes when you are trying to put together a list by a deadline you might forget a player. I haven’t seen Floyd play in a little while but he is one of the top 75 players in this region. I would like to personally apologize to Floyd and his family for my mishap. Please blame it on my brain and not my heart.
Adonis From Dallas, Texas
Mike who’s the best middle school player you have ever seen?
Well Adonis I would have to say Tyreke Evans because his game translated to the next level very easily. In 7th Grade he started varsity and scored 27 points against Blair Academy. They had seniors Loul Deng and Charlie Villanueva back then. WANT TO BE IN THE NEXT MAILBAG? EMAIL QUESTIONS TO BASKETBALLSPOTLIGHT@HOTMAIL.COM
Showcase Report: Smith is a big guard with the ability to pass the rock and score at will. During the showcase he showed he was one of the top guards in the region bar none. Next season he will be suiting up with the NYC Gauchos and expect Coach Paul Suber to let him loose.
My name is Otis Livingston Jr. People call me Lil Man. I'm honored to contribute to Basketball Spotlight's Diary of a Baller. Thanks to Mike Melton for selecting me. I've liked reading the diaries over the years and saw them as inspiration. I'll do my best to tell you what I'm up to on and off the court.
The most important thing to me is my family. I am 1 of 5 kids. I have two older sisters and two younger brothers. My brothers and I are a rap group called L3. Peep our 1st rap "My MC Sound" on Youtube. To book us for a backyard BBQ, hit us up at..... Just kidding.
I'm an 8th grader at South Orange Middle School and also a point guard on NJ Got Game. I was really excited to get back to school after the long summer. As much as I love basketball I love school. My favorite subjects are Math and Science. I also enjoy learning about World War II. When I'm not playing basketball I spend my time reading, listening to music, fighting with my brothers, and hanging out with my friends.
But let's face it basketball is my passion. And even though I'm usually the smallest kid on the court, I believe I can do anything on the floor. My goals are simple: Play as hard as I can every time out, and get better everyday. Last year my AAU squad was a little dissappointed in our play at times. That WILL change this year. We're gonna get back in the gym and work harder and we WILL get better. I didn't get to play as much basketball over the summer as I would've liked because in a consolation game in our summer league I broke my wrist while trying to take a charge.You see Coach Pete I do take charges LOL. I couldn't play in the BBall Spotlight Super Showcase. It was hard sitting on the sideline watching the guys go at it and not be able to get a piece of the action! I was still able to work on my conditioning and dribbling and now that my cast is off, I'm back in the gym and our driveway working on my jumper and trying to get better.
High School Sports Media Television was on hand for the Basketball Spotlight Super Showcase. HSSMTV has the #1 amateur basketball video highlight library in the country. Check out some of their highlights from the Super Showcase. This game featured Bulls vs. Suns. Stay tuned because we have loads of footage to come.
Showcase Report: I like Tillman’s quickness and play making ability. He’s very aggressive and hits the gaps in the defense. He also had some good springs when trying to finish off plays. He must get stronger which is normal for most guards at this age.
After weeks of speculation Coach Battle of Team Battle has made his decision about his program.
The Decision
BS: So here we are, what will Team Battle do next season? GB: We will go over and join Team Final.
BS: When did you decide? GB: I went back and forth for a few weeks but I finally decided yesterday.
BS: Why Team Final? GB: Well I feel that we have been a successful program but the players needed to be a part of an elite high school program. Many successful grammar school programs won’t be around once they reach the high school level because of funding and other issues. Look at Team Final resume of players including Tyreke Evans, Mike Gilchrist, Rakeem Christmas and Tyrone Johnson among others. We feel we have a group of players of that caliber so we couldn’t pass up the opportunity. I also felt that the players would eventually out grow Team Battle.
BS: How did your staff and players feel about this decision? GB: Well my assistant coach said he trusted me and would go wherever I wanted. It was tough for Tyus and Jamir because they were a part of Team Battle for so long but in the end they understood.
BS: How difficult was the decision? GB: It was very difficult because we started the training company in 2005 and the AAU squad in 2007. We had good success very quickly and turned our team into a national brand. But in the end a better future for the players stood out.
BS: So what Team Battle ages are making the move? GB: Well we plan to have 9U Thru 13U but most importantly our great 11U team from last season will be joining us on the 12U Level. They had a few other opportunities but we wanted to keep the family together. I feel they have a very talented bunch.
BS: What will you remember most about Team Battle? GB: Really the respect and response we received when we walked in the gym. Everybody around the country knew when Team Battle entered the building.
BS: So when will you guys get started? GB: Well the Battle Basketball Clinics will still operate the same but the Team Final AAU will kick off tryouts October 9th (10 am) at Life Center Academy. Anyone interested can email me at GBattle23@yahoo.com
Wow, 3 Team Of The Year Programs Under One Umbrella!
Basketball Spotlight was the first site to introduce you to Dakari Johnson when we saw him with the NYC Gauchos almost three years ago. Now everyone is talking about how great he is. He’s currently ranked #1 in the nation by ESPN.com. He probably would have been number #1 in our rankings but we didn’t see him play live in a while so we felt it wasn’t a fair judgment. But it’s hard to argue against this kids upside. Here’s a real highlight reel of this phenom that now attends St. Patrick’s. Our archives are too deep.
,I’ve seen the development of Trey Lowe over the years. He played for the CJ Hornets, Trenton Hurricanes, F.A.C.E.S. and currently NJ Got Game. On every level he managed to be an impact player and help his team get wins. Recently he starred at the Basketball Spotlight Super Showcase where he made the Top Performer list. We got a chance to sit down with Trey and here’s our One on One.
One On One
BS: What school do you attend? TL: Fisher Middle School (Ewing, NJ).
BS: What NBA player do you most resemble? TL: I would say Ray Allen because he can shoot or get to the basket.
BS: What’s the strongest part of your game? TL: My shooting range and scoring.
BS: What part of your game needs the most work? TL: Playing defense and working on getting stronger.
BS: What’s your dream college? TL: Duke, I love the way Coach K coaches and their style of play.
BS: How was your experience at the Super Showcase? TL: It was great because it had good competition. I learned some new moves and other things from some of the players.
BS: What’s your fondest Basketball Spotlight moment? TL: This past Memorial Day Classic. I think I played very well. I scored a lot of points, had some assist, and played good defense.
BS: What do you like about Basketball Spotlight? TL: I love it because it gives you a lot of exposure. It also shows you how to get better and what you need to work on.
BS: What are your career goals? TL: I want to play in the NBA or go into the business world. I want to support my family.
The Basketball Spotlight Grand Finale is receiving early interest. Some of the top teams in the region are confirmed. If you are interested please register quickly because this event will eventually sell out. This tournament will be held Dec. 4th and 5th at Hoop Group Headquarters. Please keep in mind of the November 14th deadline.
Gary Battle the coach and founder of Battle basketball will announce the future of his program on Wednesday. He will let the world know if Team Battle will be moving over to Nike power Team Final. I’m sure this is a difficult decision since the program is built on his family name. Right now no one knows which way he’s leaning (not even this writer). But Wednesday morning check back here for the answer.
Hello basketball world my name is Lamarr "Fresh" Kimble. I am 13 years old, my birthday is September 28. I'm in 8th grade and I attend Life Center Academy in Burlington, NJ. I play for Team Final 13u AAU we are currently ranked 6th in the nation. Since the nationals I've spent my off season in summer leagues playing against older kids to keep up my physical play, stamina and IQ of the game. I also attended a few camps such as Hoop Group Jr. Elite and KO Elite Camp. One of my highlights of the summer was Basketball Spotlight Super Showcase.
My first day back to school started on August 25th. Since then I've had the pleasure of working out with D1 prospects such as LaQuinton Ross, who also attends Life Center Academy. As well as being invited to workout with high schools such as Roman Catholic (Shep Gardener) and power house Neumann Goretti. On September 11th I Played in The Youth Interlock Midnight Madness. I had a good game with 17pts, 5 rebs, and 6 ast, my team also won. It was still early so I worked on my conditioning and shooting for an hour. I'm always looking for different experiences and ways to improve my game. This is my first diary entry for Basketball Spotlight look for more to come from Lamarr "Fresh" Kimble.
Marcus Adkinson made his Basketball Spotlight debut at the Super Showcase. The lead guard captivated the crowd and torched the defense with silky moves. He finished as one of the top combo guards in attendance. We got a chance to holler at Marcus and here’s our One on One.
One On One
BS: What player in the NBA do you compare your game to? MA: Dwayne Wade because of my cockiness and ability to go to the hole.
BS: What’s the strongest part of your game? MA: Definitely driving to the hole.
BS: What part of your game needs the most work? MA: Probably my outside shot.
BS: What are your team goals for the new season? MA: For us to win a lot and make everyone better.
BS: What are your personal goals? MA: For me to play good and to succeed in school.
BS: What is your dream college? MA: North Carolina, I always wanted to go to school there.
BS: How was your Super Showcase experience? MA: It was great we played against the best competition and I learned a lot.
BS: What do you enjoy about Basketball Spotlight? MA: It gives the best exposure. It allows players to see that their hard work pays off.
BS: What are your career goals? MA: I want to be an entrepreneur and a basketball player.
Now that the 2009-10 season is in the bag we will begin previewing the upcoming campaign. First, we will take a look at the 8th Graders that we feel have a shot to win the Player Of The Year Award. There’s always a chance for someone to come out of the shadows to snag the award.
Preseason Player Of The Year Candidates
Lamar Kimble Guard (Team Final)- I'ts only right that we begin with the reigning Player Of The Year. Defenses will be more focused on this scoring machine but he probably has enough game to still get his numbers. The pressure is on and he should be able to handle it.
Trevaughn Wilkerson Forward (Team Final)- Wilkerson had an argument for the award this past season. Kimble had a breakout year and sometimes players are victims of their own success. He’s a guaranteed double-double which is saying a lot.
Nasir Barrino Guard (Playaz)- Yes, Barrino is in 2015 which means defenses better tighten up. Nasir went for 20 plus on a regular basis last season and we don’t expect anything to change this year. Rumor is Team Scan is forming an 8th Grade bunch if so watch score boards light up.
Marcus Floyd Guard (Philly Aztecs)- Floyd has one of the hottest names on the circuit right now. He had Delaware on the map and has a chance to take the POY trophy back to the First State. His aggressive style and first step is something to watch.
Malachi Richardson Guard (Youth Interlock)- The sharp shooter has entered the Class of 2015 and will challenge Justin Salem for the best outside stroke. Richardson has shot up a couple of inches and is improving his ability to put the rock on the floor. He has a chance to shoot his way to the big trophy next summer.
Tyvez Monroe Forward (Fairfax Stars)- Monroe proved he could dominate at the Showcase. He hasn’t played in a Spotlight tournament as of yet so we have to see if he can handle the intensity. A few good showings and dominant performances in his region might put him over the top.
Blair Howard Guard (CBC)- Howard showed he could control a game at the Super Showcase. His herky jerky style and ability to finish makes him an instant impact player. CBC’s willingness to travel will give him a chance to showcase his game.
Horace Spencer Forward (Philly Aztecs)- Potentially, Spencer might stand alone of this list. If he wants to take home the big trophy he will need to get the intangibles together quickly. He will have numerous opportunities because the Aztecs will be hitting the road.
Donovan Mitchell Guard (The City)- I think Mitchell can become a very dominant player in this region. This season is his chance to prove me right. He needs to be a little more aggressive on the offensive end but I think he can handle that. His team will be playing in some high profile events.
First and foremost I would like to thank bballspotlight.com for giving me this opportunity to share my daily experiences with all the bballspotlight supporters.
My name is Malachi Richardson aka "Shoota" aka "Snipa". I'm a 6'2 shooting guard class of 2015 from Trenton NJ. I haven't played in a regulation game since the U14 Nationals (Orlando) were held in July. My AAU team is Youth Interlock and we placed 14th. While at the nationals I injured my groin. I finished the tournament on one leg, and if you think it’s easy it's NOT it was very frustrating.
The rest of my summer sure didn't go as planned. Instead of attending three basketball camps I had to rest for three weeks. It was very difficult watching my friends ball and not be able to get out their with them. After my three week hiatus from ballin, I had to gradually strengthen my groin and get back into shape. I was invited to workout with my local high school team TCA (Trenton Catholic Academy), they run an excellent strength and conditioning program during the summer. Shout out to the TCA Fam for the invite and allowing me to use the gym. Since then I've added some bulk to my body and game. Now that summers over I gotta be a fulltime student athlete.
Basketball Spotlight Alum Shaquille Thomas has selected the University of Cincinnati. Thomas played in the Basketball Spotlight Clash For The Cup and in the Grand Finale for the Playaz Basketball Club. Thomas went on to play at Paterson Catholic, Mountain State Academy and Nia Prep. We would like to congratulate Thomas on his selection and wish him good luck in the Big East. Basketball Spotlight will be bringing you more players tat traveled from Basketball Spotlight to National Spotlight.
One of the toughest parts of playing of being an evaluator is ranking players. Two years ago at this time we released our 2012 rankings. Some people disagreed with our assessments and breakdown of the players. Here’s a flashback of the Top 10. It’s kind of interesting. .
Basketball Spotlight Class of 2012 Elite 50 Regional Rankings
1. Kyle Anderson 6’6 Guard (Fairlawn, NJ)-Anderson got our nod as the lanky and towering point guard guided one team to a National Title after guiding another to the Las Vegas Main Event crown. The Shawn Livingston type dazzled crowds coast to coast with his slick passes and clutch play. He should be an instant impact on the high school level at Paterson Catholic. Check out his highlights from the AAU Nationals. Highlights
Now: Anderson proved us right by currently being ranked #5 nationally in this class. So I think we were dead on with having him at #1. This kid has big time potential.
2. Nkereum Okoro 6’4 Guard (Bronx, NY)-When teammates finish 1and 2 it lets you know how strong the Lightning were. Okoro has an argument for the number 1 spot has the smooth wing player does damage in some many different ways. He will can the jumper or create his own shot off the dribble. He also knows how to maneuver on the baseline for easy buckets or free throw trips.
Now:Okoro is currently ranked #48 in the country according to ESPN.com. He has been destroying the circuit with the Long Island Lightning. I think we did okay with this ranking but #2 was probably too high. He has two more years though.
3. Savon Goodman 6’4 Forward (Philadelphia, PA)-Goodman had the goods this year. I was really impressed with his perimeter skills and his ability to get teammates involved. Savon has a nice build and plays above the rim at times. He also can hurt you by how hard he plays and willingness to play defense. His name should ring bells in the City of Brotherly Love early and often.
Now: Goodman was a great pick at #3 because he currently is ranked in the Top 25 on ESPN and Rivals. This superb athlete is really turning heads and is beginning to develop his perimeter skills.
4. Amile Jefferson 6’5 Forward (Philadelphia, PA)-The Real Deal has a tremendous future ahead of him especially if he grows at least 3 more inches while in high school. He has polished lost post moves and excels at changing or blocking shots on the defensive end. The development of his perimeter game will be a key to his future endeavors. Now: Amile was a great pick at #4 but probably should been in our Top 3. The questions about his length were answered he’s currently 6’7. He has starred on the circuit and camp events.
5. Thaddeus Hall 6’3 Guard (New York, NY)-There’s no denying Hall’s athleticism and his ability as a playmaker. The lefty can get to the rack with good speed and power. When he gets to the rack he can finish in traffic or above the rim. Thaddeus also has a chance to fly up this ladder. He also is apparently attending Rice.
Now: Hall has the tools but hasn’t hit the national rankings as of yet. He received some good reports on the circuit while running with Metro Hawks. We were a little off on this one but he has two more years to help us out.
6. Rashard Andrews 6’4 Guard (Brooklyn, NY)-Don’t be surprised when it’s said and done that Andrews rises to the top of this list. I see so many interesting things in his game. First of all he seems to have a few more inches to grow which is always important, then it appears that he is one is way to become a fluid wing player and finally he seems to have a good attitude and serious work ethic to get better.
Now: I’m really scratching my head about Andrews. I saw so much potential in this kid. He’s showing some progress on the AAU circuit and should make his varsity debut for St. Anthony this year. I think we will make out good with this one before he reaches college. He’s currently ranked #58 on Sports Press TV website.
7. Dashawn Suber 5’11 Guard (Spring Valley, NY)-The lefty will put up huge numbers against any opponents. It’s virtually impossible to keep him away from the basket off the dribble. Suber has been around the game for years and uses his experience to outwit opponents. Word is he’s headed to Rice. If so than he should develop into something serious.
Now: Suber is now at St. Pats and should explode on the scene after having a nice summer with The Choz 16U. This summer will be is chance to make his mark on the national ranking scene. He’s currently ranked #53 on Sports Press TV website. I think we were on point.
8. Omar Calhoun 6’3 Guard (Brooklyn, NY)-Calhoun is the prototype two-guard. He has size, ball handling and a jumper that can hurt you when he is on. I like his body control and ability to get to the tin while penetrating. If he gets the freedom in high school he could flourish into a serious stud. Think about Paul Pierce style of play.
Now:Calhoun was in our Top 10 but probably should have been Top 5. He’s currently ranked #23 in the country according to ESPN.com. I feel right good about this ranking. I think we did okay.
9. Labrent Walker 6’2 Guard (Queens, NY)-If you want excitement look no further than Mr. Walker. The lefty lives to shack defenders with his crossover before finishing above shot blockers. His handle and decision making has improved but still needs to fine tune his outside shot which can be streaky at times. He will look very good in an open floor system.
Now:Walker is currently ranked #60 on Sports Press TV rankings. He’s still a good athlete and should be developing his ball handling. I think we did okay with this pick.
10. Daniel Dingle 6’5 Forward (Bronx, NY)-Dingle has been one of the top power forwards on this age level for years. He has grown gradually over that time period and skills have also picked up. Dingle is capable of hitting the glass and scoring inside with touch.
Now:Dingle is beginning to prosper as promised. He had a huge summer and turned some heads playing with the Long Island Lightning. Dingle is ranked in the Top 100 on several sites.
The Basketball Spotlight Final Top Rankings have been completed. These rankings were compiled from team play throughout the season and nationals. Remember these rankings are just our opinion and should be taken as such.
Basketball Spotlight Final Top 10 Rankings Presented By AGame Team Apparel
14U Final Top 10 1. Juice All Stars 2. Future Players 3. Team Scan 4. Youth Interlock 5. Team Nelson 6. Team NJ ABC 7. CBC 8. New Heights 9. King Street Kings 10. Boston Spartans
13U Final Top 10 1. Team Final 2. The City 3. Philly Aztecs 4. Richmond Phenom 5. Team Takeover 6. KYDA 7. NYC Gauchos 8. Linden Ballers 9. NJ Got Game 10. CBC
12U Final Top 10 1. Team Battle 2. DC Assault (Gorham) 3. King Street Kings 4. New Heights 5. DC Assault (Clark) 6. F.A.C.E.S. 7. MABC 8. Delaware Finest Stars 9. CT Elite 10. NJ Got Game
11U Final Top 10 1. Team Battle 2. Maryland Panthers 3. CT Elite 4. CBC 5. Team Nelson 6. MABC 7. F.A.C.E.S. 8. Playtime Panthers 9. Team Final 10. Team World Elite
"Hail" Ceasar Delivered The Knockout Blow Against Kentucky
In a featured matchup Syracuse featuring “Hail” Ceasar Adim squared off against Kentucky featuring Rakym “Bed Stuy Bully” Felder. In the first half Kentucky had their way while pulling out to an early lead before intermission. In the second stanza Syracuse fought back to set up a thrilling finish. The highlights below give you glimpse of the ending of this game.
Name: Anthony Cowan
As you know through our polls we at Basketball Spotlight like to have the fan input. We decided to take it to another level. We have developed the Melton’s Mailbag. The Melton Mailbag will contain 4 questions from you the fans that we will post and answer on our page. We will pick the four questions we feel are the best.
Scott From Greensville, North Carolina:
Brian From Bridgeport, CT
Aaron From Philadelphia, PA
Adonis From Dallas, Texas
Name: NyRhique Smith
Name: Montrell Tillman
The Final Team Battle Picture
I’ve seen the development of Trey Lowe over the years. He played for the CJ Hornets, Trenton Hurricanes, F.A.C.E.S. and currently NJ Got Game. On every level he managed to be an impact player and help his team get wins. Recently he starred at the Basketball Spotlight Super Showcase where he made the Top Performer list. We got a chance to sit down with Trey and here’s our One on One.
The Basketball Spotlight Grand Finale is receiving early interest. Some of the top teams in the region are confirmed. If you are interested please register quickly because this event will eventually sell out. This tournament will be held Dec. 4th and 5th at Hoop Group Headquarters. Please keep in mind of the November 14th deadline.
What Will It Be Team Battle Or Team Final?
Hello basketball world my name is Lamarr "Fresh" Kimble. I am 13 years old, my birthday is September 28. I'm in 8th grade and I attend Life Center Academy in Burlington, NJ. I play for Team Final 13u AAU we are currently ranked 6th in the nation. Since the nationals I've spent my off season in summer leagues playing against older kids to keep up my physical play, stamina and IQ of the game. I also attended a few camps such as Hoop Group Jr. Elite and KO Elite Camp. One of my highlights of the summer was Basketball Spotlight Super Showcase.
Marcus Adkinson made his Basketball Spotlight debut at the Super Showcase. The lead guard captivated the crowd and torched the defense with silky moves. He finished as one of the top combo guards in attendance. We got a chance to holler at Marcus and here’s our One on One.
Can Lamar Kimble Win Back To Back POY Crowns?
Trevaughn Wilkerson Forward (Team Final)- Wilkerson had an argument for the award this past season. Kimble had a breakout year and sometimes players are victims of their own success. He’s a guaranteed double-double which is saying a lot. 
Nasir Barrino Guard (Playaz)- Yes, Barrino is in 2015 which means defenses better tighten up. Nasir went for 20 plus on a regular basis last season and we don’t expect anything to change this year. Rumor is Team Scan is forming an 8th Grade bunch if so watch score boards light up.
Marcus Floyd Guard (Philly Aztecs)- Floyd has one of the hottest names on the circuit right now. He had Delaware on the map and has a chance to take the POY trophy back to the First State. His aggressive style and first step is something to watch.
Malachi Richardson Guard (Youth Interlock)- The sharp shooter has entered the Class of 2015 and will challenge Justin Salem for the best outside stroke. Richardson has shot up a couple of inches and is improving his ability to put the rock on the floor. He has a chance to shoot his way to the big trophy next summer. 
Tyvez Monroe Forward (Fairfax Stars)- Monroe proved he could dominate at the Showcase. He hasn’t played in a Spotlight tournament as of yet so we have to see if he can handle the intensity. A few good showings and dominant performances in his region might put him over the top. 
Blair Howard Guard (CBC)- Howard showed he could control a game at the Super Showcase. His herky jerky style and ability to finish makes him an instant impact player. CBC’s willingness to travel will give him a chance to showcase his game. 
Horace Spencer Forward (Philly Aztecs)- Potentially, Spencer might stand alone of this list. If he wants to take home the big trophy he will need to get the intangibles together quickly. He will have numerous opportunities because the Aztecs will be hitting the road. 
Donovan Mitchell Guard (The City)- I think Mitchell can become a very dominant player in this region. This season is his chance to prove me right. He needs to be a little more aggressive on the offensive end but I think he can handle that. His team will be playing in some high profile events.
Kyle Anderson Region's #1 Player Class 2012
2. Nkereum Okoro 6’4 Guard (Bronx, NY)- When teammates finish 1and 2 it lets you know how strong the Lightning were. Okoro has an argument for the number 1 spot has the smooth wing player does damage in some many different ways. He will can the jumper or create his own shot off the dribble. He also knows how to maneuver on the baseline for easy buckets or free throw trips.
3. Savon Goodman 6’4 Forward (Philadelphia, PA)- Goodman had the goods this year. I was really impressed with his perimeter skills and his ability to get teammates involved. Savon has a nice build and plays above the rim at times. He also can hurt you by how hard he plays and willingness to play defense. His name should ring bells in the City of Brotherly Love early and often.
4. Amile Jefferson 6’5 Forward (Philadelphia, PA)- The Real Deal has a tremendous future ahead of him especially if he grows at least 3 more inches while in high school. He has polished lost post moves and excels at changing or blocking shots on the defensive end. The development of his perimeter game will be a key to his future endeavors.
5. Thaddeus Hall 6’3 Guard (New York, NY)- There’s no denying Hall’s athleticism and his ability as a playmaker. The lefty can get to the rack with good speed and power. When he gets to the rack he can finish in traffic or above the rim. Thaddeus also has a chance to fly up this ladder. He also is apparently attending Rice.
6. Rashard Andrews 6’4 Guard (Brooklyn, NY)- Don’t be surprised when it’s said and done that Andrews rises to the top of this list. I see so many interesting things in his game. First of all he seems to have a few more inches to grow which is always important, then it appears that he is one is way to become a fluid wing player and finally he seems to have a good attitude and serious work ethic to get better.
7. Dashawn Suber 5’11 Guard (Spring Valley, NY)- The lefty will put up huge numbers against any opponents. It’s virtually impossible to keep him away from the basket off the dribble. Suber has been around the game for years and uses his experience to outwit opponents. Word is he’s headed to Rice. If so than he should develop into something serious.
8. Omar Calhoun 6’3 Guard (Brooklyn, NY)- Calhoun is the prototype two-guard. He has size, ball handling and a jumper that can hurt you when he is on. I like his body control and ability to get to the tin while penetrating. If he gets the freedom in high school he could flourish into a serious stud. Think about Paul Pierce style of play.
9. Labrent Walker 6’2 Guard (Queens, NY)- If you want excitement look no further than Mr. Walker. The lefty lives to shack defenders with his crossover before finishing above shot blockers. His handle and decision making has improved but still needs to fine tune his outside shot which can be streaky at times. He will look very good in an open floor system.
10. Daniel Dingle 6’5 Forward (Bronx, NY)- Dingle has been one of the top power forwards on this age level for years. He has grown gradually over that time period and skills have also picked up. Dingle is capable of hitting the glass and scoring inside with touch.
The Basketball Spotlight Final Top Rankings have been completed. These rankings were compiled from team play throughout the season and nationals. Remember these rankings are just our opinion and should be taken as such.
"Hail" Ceasar Delivered The Knockout Blow Against Kentucky