Team Scan Crowned ChampsNaim Thomas scored a game high 24 points as Team Scan defeated New Haven Blazers 54-52 in double overtime to win the MLK Classic 13 and Under title. Je’Vaughn Moore led the Connecticut squad with 14 points in the loss.
Top Performers
Naim Thomas Guard (Team Scan)- There are a lot of top guards in NY for this age bracket and you have to include Thomas in this group. I like to see players on the stage and perform when things get real. It got real for his squad down the stretch and he put them on his back by making plays and controlling the tempo. Thomas is a physical guard that seems to love contact and finishing with bodies draped on him. He has a relentless approach.
Kyle Menard Forward (Team Scan)- During the I got a chance to really analyze Menard’s game. He showed me numerous guard skills including range from the perimeter. He was efficient from behind the arc especially in the corner. In the finals Menard supplied a good all around effort and nailed the key free throws in the second overtime to give his squad the win.
Jalen Henriquez Guard (Team Scan)- Henriquez plays good alongside Thomas. He’s able to spot up and nail his jumper like he did in the overtime period. He also was able to dribble pass defenders because many of them over play his outside shot. Keep an eye on this kid.
Fransico Zeno Guard (Team Scan)- Zeno was very valuable for Team Scan in the MLK. He’s a strong compact guard the hits the glass and keeps the rock alive with hustle plays. The unique thing about his game is his ability to score inside despite his guard size. He leaping ability has to be related to strong legs and hours of gym work.
Kevin Seymour Forward (Team Scan)- If Seymour continues to develop he should have a bright future on the hardwood. It’s always good to see a long wing player that has the ability to handle and shoot the rock from the perimeter. In terms of developing he must get stronger and keep improving in every aspect of his game.
Je’Vaughn Moore Forward (New Haven Blazers)- The lefty is a pure athlete that excels at running the floor and finishing in transition. He has good quickness and an average handle. He’s leaping ability allows him to elevate over shot blockers and band the backboards for rebounds. He’s a high energy player.
Justin McClendan Guard (New Haven Blazers)- Justin ran the show for the Connecticut squad and had a pass first mentality. He favorite play if the drive, draw and dish to teammates. He has good penetration quickness and court vision. I can’t talk much about his outside because he didn’t see him attempt any the entire weekend. He was a good floor general.
Rashaan Boyd Guard (New Haven Blazers)- Boyd held down the paint all weekend. The big fella isn’t a super athlete but he is light on his feet while possessing decent post moves. He made a living hitting the offensive glass and getting put backs or finishing off passes. Many times when NHB needed a bucket they dumped it down low to Boyd.
Harold Cooper Guard (New Haven Blazers)- Every team needs a good role player that does a little bit of everything and Cooper is that guy for NHB. He plays aggressive defense, pushes the rock, runs the floor and will snag an occasional rebound. He’s also very strong and athletic for his point guard height.
Kaison Randolph Forward (Team MVP)- Each time I watch Randolph he impresses me even more. During the semifinals against NHB Randolph used his versatility to make things difficult for a while. His confidence in his ball handling seems to get better each time he takes the floor and I enjoy watching him finish with either hand. He really seems to get better each time he steps on the floor. 
Shaquan Worthy Guard (Team MVP)- Worthy was a joy to watch this weekend. He summed up his weekend with some impressive play against NHB. He made it difficult for their guards to stay in front by using his speed and sharp ball handling. He got into a trouble a couple times by dribbling into double teams but he also bailed his team out down the stretch with some tough finishes.
