The 13U Division at the Grand Finale had only 8 teams but it was probably the most competitive top to bottom. We had a 3 way tie breaker and a few surprises. Here’s a look inside this division and who did what.
Team Nelson Still SucceedsLosing the top player in the region (Sheppard Gardner) might have destroyed some programs but this squad based out of Chester PA pulled it together to take home the gold. The trio of Dion Linton, Kyle Coleman and Mahir Johnson provided enough spark to get them over the top. Coach Malik maintained his tough defensive strategy which helped them prevail. They should be a dangerous team this spring.
Delaware Finest Pulls Off Shocker
Delaware Finest came into the tourney without much hype but managed to finish first in their pool after knocking off MDC Champs Team Underrated. They advanced to the semifinals before getting knocked out by Team Scan from New York. They proved that when you come to a Basketball Spotlight tourney no team is safe.
Noticeable Top Performers
Kyle Coleman (Team Nelson)- Coleman came up big for his team during their semifinal matchup against Team Underrated. The big guard went to work finishing with 15 huge points including two buckets from behind the arc. He’s one of the go to men of this squad.
Dion Linton (Team Nelson)- Linton’s all around style was very important to TN taking home the crown. He played big during pool play and also showed his worth during the playoffs. He’s a tough baseline player that might venture out to the wing in the future.
Naim Thomas (Team Scan)- Viewers need to keep their eyes on this guard. He’s not over flashy but has the substance in his game that gets things done. He ran the show for his team and still found the time to get buckets also. I like his posture and presence on the floor.
Anthony Mosley (Delaware Finest)- The southpaw has some serious scoring talent especially in transition. He gets to the basket with ease and knows how to maneuver his body to get shots off. He’s a serious baller that doesn’t get enough recognition.
Chris Davis (Team Underrated)- Davis seemed to be nursing an injury but that didn’t stop him from coming to life during their semifinal game against Team Nelson. He did a lot of damage off the dribble and finished with 18 points in the loss.Malik Howard (Team Underrated)- Howard picked up the early slack for his teammate. During their pool play game against JSL Hoops he led all scorers in the game finishing with 20 points.
George Lambert (Linden Ballers)- Lambert can score the pool and he proved it during his pool game against JSL Hoops going for 22 points. The two guard has a nice stroke and also can get buckets from the mid range area.
Grand Finale All Tournament Team
Kyle Coleman (Team Nelson)- Co MVP
Dion Linton (Team Nelson)- Co MVP
Mahir Johnson (Team Nelson)
Tyrell Sturdivant (Team Nelson)
Naim Thomas (Team Scan)
Jalen Henriquez (Team Scan)
Austrian Robinson (Team Scan)
Chris Davis (Team Underrated)
Malik Howard (Team Underrated)
Anthony Mosley (Delaware Finest)
George Lambert (Linden Ballers)
Maurice Diawara (JSL Hoops)
