Basketball Spotlight Elite 80 Expo Preview: Central Jersey Version

The Basketball Spotlight Elite 80 Expo is coming next weekend at Hoop Group Headquarters and should be an action packed event. The top talent in the Northeast will be on hand to showcase their skills in front of Basketball Spotlight and other analyst. Here’s breakdown of some of the top talent that will be in the building.

Central Jersey Ballers Looks To Impress

Jordan Forehand Guard (Bridgewater, NJ)- Forehand is probably one of the most anxious players in the Garden State to show his skills at this event. If the Adidas Jr. Phenom Camp is any indication then the rest of the field better look out. Jordan’s strong play especially going towards the basket is hard to defend on this level. He plays the game with serious intent and usually has positive results. This might be the regional coming out party.

Trevis Wyche Guard (Neptune, NJ)- The long time floor general for the Fliers is back running his club and should be ready to show his worth at the Expo. When Watching Wyche expect a high pace tempo and few mistakes when he running the show. He has excellent court vision and will can the open jumper if left open.

Drew Corsi Guard (Rumson, NJ)- Another point guard that needs to introduction is Corsi. He spent many years dazzling the crowd and shaking defenders with his wizardry ball handling for the Bayshore Bulldogs. He also can black out from behind the arc as he showed on a few occasions this season.

Darrian Collins Guard (South River) – Speaking of shooters look for further than Collins. The combo guard has a sweet stroke and can tickle the twine in bunches. His low center of gravity make him difficult to strip and his basketball IQ stands out on this level.

Jahad Harris Forward (Linden, NJ)- Harris is an undersized monster on the blocks. He has decent moves in the paint and isn’t afraid to throw his body around to create space. Jahad should be ready to make his mark in the Garden State. He plays for the Ballers so you know he will be ready.

Bryan Rivers Guard (West Windsor, NJ)- I like what I saw from Rivers at the Hoop Group Jr. Elite Camp. He has good size for a guard and has some swagger to his game. Bryan can handle the pill with either hand and finish in traffic. He is still under the radar right now but that might change this weekend.

Chad Mordecai Guard (New Brunswick, NJ)- If you like small guards with slick ball handling then Chad’s your man. Mordecai changes directions with the best of them and loves delivering the rock to teammates for easy buckets. He did his thing at the Hoop Group Jr. Elite Camp but the comp here might be a little stiffer.

Basketball Spotlight Elite 80 Expo Preview: North Jersey Version

The Basketball Spotlight Elite 80 Expo is coming next weekend at Hoop Group Headquarters and should be an action packed event. The top talent in the Northeast will be on hand to showcase their skills in front of Basketball Spotlight and other analyst. Here’s breakdown of some of the top talent that will be in the building.

North Jersey Is In The Building!

Kavon Stewart Guard (Paterson, NJ)- The Paterson playmaker enters the Expo with a serious rep and is regarded by some as the top point guard in the Garden State. He has showed up big in numerous of venues and possesses that swagger that catches your eye. The southpaw loves a stage like this so expect a big time performance.

Reggie Cameron Forward (Hackensack, NJ)- Cameron is a smooth shooting wing player and he also is ready to prove that he is among the elite in the tri-state area. He has the size that would make any high school coach admire and a stroke that can take him a long way. He should be ready to represent.

Kody Jenkins Guard (Hackensack, NJ)- Jenkins showed me a lot of tools at the Adidas Jr. Phenom, now it’s time to take it the stage at the Expo. I don’t think he’s worried as the scoring guard has an offensive arsenal that frightens many defenders. He made some noise at the Adidas Jr. Phenom but now it’s time to make his mark.

Shacore Edwards Guard (Irvington, NJ)- This high scoring guard is ready to boost his stock at the Expo. He gets buckets and will kill you with a deep trey or aggressive drives to the tin. Don’t be surprised if he leaves this event as one of the top performers. This kid has a lot of game.

Jaren Sina Guard (Lake Hopatcong, NJ)- Sina earned a rep during the 14U AAU Nationals and backed it up with a strong play in front of yours truly. The multi-talented point guard is a crowd pleasure and has much substance to his game. He should be a great addition to this event.

Joshua Marquez Forward (Paterson, NJ)- Marquez is a versatile forward that isn’t afraid to get dirty inside. He also has some ball handling skills that helped him earn accolades at numerous events. This stage will give him a chance to showcase his array of talent. He’s a work horse on the floor.

Ian Rohde Forward (Ringwood, NJ)- Don’t sleep on Mr. Rohde because if you do you might miss some good play. Rohde is coming to the Expo to make a splash on the rest of the tri-state. He has some deceptive moves and isn’t super quick but gets where he wants on the floor.

Gary Writenour Guard (Woodridge, NJ)- Every event needs a good shooter and Writenhour will provide this. He has good range and accuracy but also can handle the pill if necessary. It will be interesting to see him against this type of competition.

Travis Procida Guard (Paramus, NJ)- Travis runs the show like an efficient point guard. He should thrive in this environment because guards have the ball in the hands most of the time. He also should make his teammates happy with his pass first mentality. His poise and style of play will turn some heads.

Joel Hernandez Guard (Teaneck, NJ)- I checked out Hernandez at Funsport and his aggressive style will fit in with this setting. He’s a scoring guard in a point guard body and I like his stroke from the perimeter. Expect him to open up his game at this event.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Basketball Spotlight would like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. Lets put the basketball and sneakers up for a day and spend this time with the ones that matter. This is the time to be very thankful for all that we have in life.

Basketball Spotlight Word On The Street: JC Fliers Returns

This is segment on Basketball Spotlight will talk about the happening in the world of grammar school basketball. We will try to stay away from immature gossip but instead to give you guys the 411 on what’s going on.


Jersey Shore Fliers Reunion!

The Jersey Shore Fliers have reunited for their 14 and Under season. As you remember this squad had a stronghold on their age group for numerous years. Last season a scheduling conflict with the coach caused the team to part ways. The players never seemed to be completely comfortable with their new teams and have decided to go out together. I feel good about this move because I believe in loyalty and finishing what you started. Good luck to the JC Fliers and see you at a couple of the Basketball Spotlight Events.

Team Final Goes Young?

High School AAU powerhouse Team Final seems to heading into the Grammar School AAU divisions. Word is a prominent AAU program from the Mid Atlantic Region will going under their umbrella. Details are still sketchy right now you we want speculate but as soon as it’s final you will hear it on Word On The Street!

Diary Of A Baller: Jason Boswell Entry #10

Hey basketball world, I had a fun week, with one tough lost.

Last Saturday I had a school game against Santa Maria. That game was too easy. Me and my teammate Jeqeaun Brown didn’t even play the 3rd and 4th quarter. In the 2nd quarter I caught a crazy put back dunk on two people. I ended the game with 17pts and about 9rebs and I only played the first half. We beat them by at least 30 pts.

Later that week I had a big Funsport game. Panthers vs. Lightning. In the first minutes of the game I scored a pull up jump shot and threw a nice assist to my big man. Then I got into foul trouble so I had to sit down, until the 3rd quarter so my teammate Jonathan (Jon Jon) Severe held it down for me. When I got back in the game I hit a big 3 to put us up by 4. Then my right hand man Jordan Washington from Panthers just dominated the boards and had numerous put backs. With a lot of not executing and lack of communication it was a tough loss. I had about 12 & 6 I think I could have played a lot better. Later that same night I had a school game against St. Francis Xavier. Another easy win. The score was 75 to 29. I think my school should take states.

Well that’s how my last week went so everyone have a Happy Thanksgiving and save some food for me. And congrats to my boy Nkereuwem Okoro for being in the Daily News as best freshman in the Bronx.

(BUTTA IS OUT)

Meet Jaylon Tate: Chi Town's Next Floor General

Name: Jaylon Tate
AAU Team: Rising Stars Dream Team
Position: Point Guard
Height: 6’0

Breakdown- Chicago is known to have some top ballers especially point guards. From Isiah Thomas to Tim Hardaway and most recently Derrick Rose the Windy City has always provided with some top play makers. We will take a look at a new point guard on the horizon. His name is Jaylon Tate. Tate is an 8th Grade with a wealth of talent and is ready to unleash it unto the rest of the world. Check out some of his work on this video. We will be hitting with more Chicago Ballers coming soon.

Click Here For Video

Basketball Spotlight Presents: Atlantic City Showcase Tourney

Basketball Spotlight will hit Atlantic City for the inaugural Atlantic City Showcase Tournament. This tourney should bring together the top AAU Clubs on the East Coast. The event will be held at Atlantic City High School and other schools in area. There’s limited space for this event and the winner of each age bracket will get a discount to the MDC.

Event: Atlantic City Showcase Tourney

Where: Atlantic City, NJ

When: March 21st and 22nd

Price: $350 Per Team

Ages: 10U Thru 14U

For Application Contact Mike Melton at BasketballSpotlight@hotmail.com or at 609-532-5122.

Funsport Youth League Recap Part 2

John Severe (LI Lightning)

Basketball Spotlight took the trip over to Thomas Jefferson High School in Brooklyn, NY to watch the Funsport League. I got a chance to check out some of the top players in NYC and I must say it was truly a joy. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top performers we saw in a voyage. This is Part 2.

Funsport Top Performers

John Severe Guard (LI Lightning)- Even tough his team came out on the short end against the Panthers, Severe was one of the most impressive players I saw throughout the day. Just think about Steve Francis during his time at the University of Maryland. John is an explosive guard with quick change of direction, powerful moves, legit handle and good range on his jumper. Yes, it looks like he has the goods. Once he gets better with decision making and understanding the game you will have a sure stud on you hands. Severe’s most important aspect might be his desire to win and how hard he competes. He tallied 24 points and 11 boards.

Jordan Washington Forward (NY Panthers)- Jordan had the most dominant post game during the day. The man-child in the paint did whatever he wanted once he got the ball on the blocks. He showed good touch on some of his shots and showed even more effort on the boards with 29 caroms. Washington fought off double teams and zones on his way to 27 markers in the books.

Jason Boswell Forward (LI Lightning)- Boswell started with a spark before getting in early foul trouble. It was good to see him being aggressive because I think he really needs to focus on that area but in terms of being a prospect it’s hard to find anyone in the gym that probably has more long term potential. His size, ball handling ability and shooting range just gives him attributes that many others don’t possess. It’s up to him if he decides to tap into those attributes.

Thomas Holley Guard (Starret City)- The big fela inside has some polished post moves especially an up and under that he goes to whenever he has a defender pinned. Holley has improved in terms of being a vocal leader and now understands that the ball showed go through him on offense.

Tim Quashie Guard (Starret City)- The southpaw showed tremendous poise playing up against the Pirates. He demonstrated some point guard skills as well as the ability to score down the stretch. When games get tight some youngsters shy away but Quashie demanded the rock and made big time plays when it mattered.

Rakwan Kelly Guard (NJ Pirates)- Kelly was the bright spot for the Jersey team. The confident wing guard handled the rock and put constant pressure on the defense with crisp drives. He loves pushing the pill coast to coast and has an array of finishing moves. He’s very fluid on the perimeter but must develop a consistent outside shot. Nevertheless he was impressive.

John Dewey Guard (NY Patriots)- A lot of point guard tried to drop dimes but no one in the building seemed to have more doing it than Dewey. The small but quick floor general made a living driving, drawing and dishing. He kept defenders on their heels with a slick handle and kept his teammates happy with sweet court vision.

Davonne Ragin Forward (NY Patriots)- Nickname Biggie because he resembles to the rap legend Ragin handles his business on the blocks. He’s not as quick or athletic as other post players but his knack for scoring and his size causes enough problems for opponents. He has good touch from the field and from the charity stripe.

Lamel Faison Guard (Brooklyn USA)- Speaking of point guards Faison also made an impact. He gives it to you by scoring or dropping dimes. His ball handling and quickness allowed him to beat defenders at will. I also like his floater in the lane. He carried his team down the stretch.

Iran Duncan Guard (Brooklyn USA)- Faison’s backcourt mate Duncan is a southpaw with a scorers mentality. He’s physical enough to absorb contact once he gets into the lane. He also knows how to change his shot to avoid shot blockers. He should be a force throughout the season.

Funsport Youth League Recap Part 1

Shaquille Davis (Brookyln, NY)

Basketball Spotlight took the trip over to Thomas Jefferson High School in Brooklyn, NY to watch the Funsport League. I got a chance to check out some of the top players in NYC and I must say it was truly a joy. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top performers we saw in a voyage.

Funsport Top Performers

Shaquille Davis Guard (Assassins)- Wow, Davis put on a show this afternoon. The muscular guard exploded to the cup for several easy buckets but was really impressive in terms of rebounding and getting second chance points. His opponents were soft in the middle and Davis used this to his advantage by penetrating deep and down the middle. He has excellent leaping ability for a guard his size.

Isiah Louis Guard (Assassins)- Louis earned Player of the Week honors because of his performance last Sunday. I can see why, the lanky guard can score while doing it quickly and often. He has unlimited range and accuracy of his outside shot while also showing a tremendous knack for getting buckets. I like his size on the perimeter.

Ethan Telfair Guard (Assassins)- Telfair seemed be nursing an injured knee but that didn’t stop him from showing flashes of top notch play. He loves to penetrate and stick the pull up jumper but his game really flourishes when he is setting up teammates for easy buckets. He will need to get stronger once he hits the high school level.

Joel Hernandez Guard (Metro Hawks)- Hernandez played with some passion and tried to keep his team in the game with a nice stroke and tough finishes in the paint. He has a nice outside shot but does need to add a little arch. I like some of his attributes and think he has a chance to be a good one.

Tiquan Givens Guard (Gauchos)- I like the way Givens ran the show for Choz. He worked well especially when they went to the 4 corner spread offense. Givens then constantly beat his defender off the dribble and either hit moving teammates or knock down a pull up. He’s a heady point guard.

Chris Robinson Forward (Gauchos)- Robinson grew a few inches since I saw in last summer but he still possess the guard skills that should make him a interesting prospect in due time. For this Gauchos team he anchors the defense and is willing to hit the boards.

Tyler Wilson Guard (Gauchos)- Wilson impresses me more and more with his ability to create while handling the rock with great poise. He gets anywhere he wants on the floor while converting tough shots over defenders. He’s really turning himself into a serious point guard.

Jordan Nanton Guard (Brooklyn Patriots)- His team took a lopsided loss at the hands of the Gauchos but Nanton still was able to produce offensively. The strong guard got to the bucket on several occasions but does need to work on driving hard to the left side of the floor.

Basketball Spotlight MySpace

Basketball Spotlight has joined the MySpace World by creating our own page. To become a friend on our page you must be a basketball player, coach or head of an organization. This page will be used to send messages or for players and coaches to network.

Basketball Spotlight My Space Page

Basketball Spotlight Flashback: Durand Scott Picks Miami

Durand In 8th Grade

Durand Scott was been a baller from years and showed tremendous loyalty playing with the Gauchos exclusively. This youngster got busy in front of me for years and I want you youngsters to know that dreams can happen if you work hard. That’s why I’m proud to announce that he has announced his college decision (very important). He’s going to Miami! Check out the video.

Click Here For Video

Basketball Spotlight Flashback: Day In The Life Of Dominic Cheek

Dominic Cheek started his career with the Jersey City Boys Club and was predicted to be a high major back then by this writer. He then took his game to the Yankees (Playaz Basketball Club) and became one of the most sought after recruits in the country. The wiry wing guard has visited several schools and has yet to make to decision. But he has given us an inside to his everyday life through You Tube. View this video and check out a day in his life.

Click Here For Video

Basketball Spotlight Feature: Jaren Sina Ready For Action!

It was 10:30 PM and my phone rung. On the other end was Patrick Stanwood the grammar school scouting guru giving me a report from the 14U AAU Nationals. Stanwood blurted into the phone “Long Island Lightning survived a scare today. This kid from Hoop Heaven was tremendous and he is only 13” he finished. At this point I had no idea who Patrick was referring too because I haven’t seen Hoop Heaven play the entire season. But since it was Patrick I had to investigate. The next morning I called Vince Baldwin from Prep Spotlight he reinterated Stanwood’s statement “The kid Jaren Sina from Hoop Heaven was very impressive” said Baldwin. His view made me even more curious and somewhat disappointed in myself because I pride myself in watching the new talent first but here are these guys from somewhere else giving me the breakdown of a player from the Garden State.

I wouldn’t get a chance to watch Sina live for a couple of months later at the Hoop Group Jr. Elite Camp. I must say the point guard was worth the hype and wait as he toyed with defenders using his slick handle and wet jumpers. Jaren provides an instant impact on the game once he enters. His court vision and sheer presence on the floor causes everyone to take notice. Look for Sina to be ready to showcase his talents when he takes the floor at the Basketball Spotlight Elite 80 Expo December 6th and 7th at Hoop Group Headquarters in Neptune, NJ.

Advertise With Basketball Spotlight

Basketball Spotlight has now entered the world of advertisement. If you have a product to get out to the young basketball community we can be your ticket. Advertising with Basketball Spotlight will allow you to have your company logo on our website on a daily. Clicking on your logo will take consumers straight to your website. There’s no better way to get the word out to potentials consumers than through us.

If you are a:

• Basketball Facility
• Basketball Trainer
• AAU Coach
• Tournament Director
• High School Coach
• College Coach
• Personal Instructor
• Or Anybody Interested in Improving Their Business

Contact Mike Melton basketballspotlight@hotmail.com or at 609-532-5122. for advertisement rates.

Final Quarter Feat. Jordan Forehand

After a good showing at the Rebounds Super Regional’s Jordan Forehand earned our recommendation to the Jr. All American Camp. The youngster headed to Virginia to compete against the top players in the country. After returning he realized how hard he had to work to become an elite player. We got a chance to check out Jordan during the NJ Adidas Jr. Phenom Camp and got some insight into his world. This is the Final Quarter.

8:00
BS: What was the highlight of your season last year?
JF: When we went to the 14U Division 2 Nationals and finished #20 in the country.

7:00
BS: How was your Jr. All American Camp experience?
JF: It was a great experience the talent down there was serious and it showed me that I had a lot to work on to get better.

6:00
BS: Why are you attending the Elite 80 Expo?
JF: Because of the exposure and I want to play against the other top players that are on your website.

5:00
BS: How did you end up attending Rutgers Prep as an 8th Grader?
JF: I honestly don’t know but I guess my mom loved the education here but next year I’m supposed to attend Seton Hall Prep.

4:00
BS: What is your dream college?
JF: Rutgers, because I love the way Coach Hill runs his offense. He’s lets the guards go.

3:00
BS: If you could ask one person in the world one question, who would you ask and what would the question be?
JF: I would ask Kobe Bryant of he could give me his workout plan.

2:00
BS: What are your future plans?
JF: I want to be a NBA player or be a doctor. It’s important to have something to fall back on.

1:00
BS: Who’s the biggest influence in your life?
JF: My father he’s always on me and wants me to be the best I can be.

0:00 Ball Game!

Class 2008: A Night To Be Proud

Back when I started writing during my Metro Hoops days there were a group of 8th Graders that I deemed as being special. These were the first grammar school players I wrote about. These players included Tyreke Evans, Ashton Gibbs, Travon Woodall, Mike Rosario, Nasir Robsinon, Jordan Theodore, Darryl Bryant, Jio Fontan, Erving Walker and Sylvan Landesberg. Last night I felt very proud while I switching though the various ESPN Channels (Full Court Package) and I’m actually watching all most of theseyoung guys rocking for major colleges. I felt really proud for them and their families to see these youngsters reach that level. Watching Ashton Gibbs pull up for jumpers, Woodall rip a point guards crossover, Nasir Robinson rip down a rebound and Tyreke Evans score in traffic brought a huge smile to my face. I’ve also read about successful starts for Rosario, Walker and a 32 point debut from Landesberg. I don’t have any children of my own but I had father type butterflies while watching this youngsters play. It was truly a night to be proud of the Class of 2008.

Diary Of A Baller: Jason Boswell Entry #9

Hey guys! Friday evening I worked out with my NY Patriots coach and that's about it. On Saturday, I hung out with my Patriots coach and Rice freshman Tyreese Fouch. If his last name rings bells he is the cousin of former Rice star Chris Fouch. On Sunday, I had a Funsport game. I scored the first 2 buckets of the game. Then I got into foul trouble and didn't play the rest of the 1st quarter, but I played the rest of the game. I ended the game with about 13 points and 4 rebounds....we blew the team out. Later that night I had a school game at Cardinal Spellman High School. My school played against Mt. Saint Michael. It was a one game tournament. We blew them out.. I had 31 pts 8 rebounds & and I got the game MVP award. The coaches of St. Raymond HS attended the game and they seemed to be very proud of the way I played. That's how my weekend went so I’m out until next week.

(Butta is out)

Holiday Classic Update

It’s time to rumble the Basketball Spotlight Holiday Classic is here and will take place December 27th and 28th in Lakewood, NJ at the brand new High Performance Facility. This event should feature the top teams in the region and will have serious Basketball Spotlight website coverage. We are only taking 12 teams for each division so sign up quickly. Request an application by email from Mike Melton at basketballspotlight@hotmail.com or call at 609-532-5122.

Travel Teams and Grammar School Teams are also invited!

Event: Basketball Spotlight Holiday Classic
Date: December 27th and 28th
Place: Lakewood, NJ (Lakewood High School Complex)
Ages: 10U thru 14U or 4th Grade thru 8th Grade
Price:$300 (Holiday Discount)
Mailing Address:
242 A Eatoncrest Dr.
Eatontown, NJ 07724

Registration Deadline: Novermber 25th (No Teams Can Enter After This Date)

THERE ARE NO REFUNDS FOR THIS TOURNAMENT!

Directions To Site

Awards and Serious Website Coverage will be given.

Confirmed Teams

14U Teams
1. Jersey Shore Fliers
2. Team Nelson
3. Trenton Hurricanes
4. Hoop Heaven AAU
5. PPY Elite
6. Asbury Park Rec
7. Team Underrated
8. New York Panthers
9. F.A.C.E.S.
10. Brooklyn USA
11. Shooting Stars
12.

13U Teams
1. Linden Ballers
2. Team NJ ABC
3. JSL Hoops
4. NJ Pirates
5. Team Underrrated
6. Team Nelson
7. Team TS
8. Delaware Finest
9.
10.
11.
12.

12U Teams
1. Bayshore Bulldogs
2. Linden Ballers
3. Playtime Basketball
4. F.A.C.E.S.
5. The City
6. Harvest Knights
7. Philly Aztecs
8. Mid Jersey Heat
9. Team Underrated
10. NJ Pirates
11. Gauchos
12.

11U Teams
1. F.A.C.E.S.
2. Mid Jersey Heat
3. Team Underrated
4. Bay State Magic (Massachusetts)
5. KBR Raptors
6. Team Battle
7. Team Ron Artest
8. Gauchos
9. PTS Pistons (Maryland)
10. On Point Cyclones
11. Delaware Finest
12.

7th Graders Invited To Elite 80 Expo

Top Players from 2 States had to be pulled from the Elite 80 Expo because of state eligibility rules. Players in those states are not allowed to attend any camps or showcase events while the season is going on. This has opened up 20 spots in the Basketball Spotlight Elite 80 Expo. Since this development is late in the process we have decided to extend the event invitation to top 7th Graders (Class 2014) that are interested in this event. Any 7th Graders that are requesting an application please email Mike Melton at basketballspotlight@hotmail.com or phone at 609-532-5122.

Basketball Spotlight Launches Message Board

Basketball Spotlight now has a message board. This board will be used to have the fans discuss matters that are pertaining to basketball. Please refrain from using profanity or any other insulting comments. This will be used as a trial basis if we feel that it’s becoming a problem we will delete it. Enjoy the message board and have fun.

Click Here To Enter and Register

Special Announcement: ONLY 9 SPOTS REMAIN FOR EXPO!

Due to enormous interest outside the Tri-state area, the Basketball Spotlight Elite 80 Expo only has 9 spots remaining for registration. Any prospect wishing to register needs to act quickly. No spots will be held without registration and their will be no walk up registration. Once these final 9 spots are gone the event is closed. We take pride in running organized events thus we will have all teams selected and schedules done well before the events date. Any questions please contact Mike Melton at basketballspotlight@hotmail.com or by phone at 609-532-5122.

Basketball Spotlight Video Profile: Jashaun Agosto

Name: Jashaun Agosto

Team: Jamal Crawford’s Seattle Speed Elite

Position: Point Guard

Class: 2015

Breakdown: The hot guard from Seattle has found a new home with the Speed Elite. He continues to run the show and keep his teammates involved while entertaining spectators. Hopefully we can get them out here on the East Coast for some work.

Click Here For Video