Elite 80 Expo Profile: Maynard Grant

Name: Maynard Grant

Position: Forward

HT: 6’2

Hometown: Jamaica, NY

AAU Team: NY Panthers

Strengths: Grant is a hard worker inside and has a face up shot from the foul line in. He uses his quickness to out maneuver most post players and has the touch of a consistent scorer. On defense Grant can venture out and guard the perimeter or stay down while defending the post.

Areas of Improvement: Grant must work on his ball handling and outside shooting to be effective on the next level. He’s only 6’2 now so he probably will be recruited as a wing player thus handling the rock, outside shooting and decision making will be very vital in his future. One thing is certain, coaches love hard workers and Grant is one.

Elite 80 Expo Profile: Kamari Peel

Name: Kamari Peel

Position: Forward

HT: 6’3

Hometown: Philadelphia, PA

AAU Team: Youth Interlock

Strengths: Peel is an appealing prospect because of his size and length. He runs the floor well and has some developing post moves on the blocks. On defense Peel can alter or block shots for the most part. The best thing about this kid is that he’s only a 7th Grader so he has time grow.

Areas of Improvement: Peel will have to pack on some muscle to hold his position on the blocks. He also will need to develop his ball handling and outside shooting in case he doesn’t grow to be 6’10. I like his upside and we should be hearing a lot from him shortly.

In The Spotlight: Jordan Taylor

Name: Jordan Taylor

AAU Team: Mid Jersey Heat

Position: Small Forward

Class: 2015


Breakdown: Mid Jersey Heat are making strides this year and Taylor’s addition is part of the reason. They won the Hoop Group Presidents Day crown and Jordan was leading the way. According to Joe Stein the lanky forward was too much to deal with during the weekend. He finished off the break and scored in various ways in the half court set. Taylor is versatile enough to hit the boards then take the rebound and push it coast to coast. He took MVP Honors President’s Weekend.

In The Spotlight: Nyrique Smith

Name: Nyrique Smith

AAU Team: NJ Shore Shots

Position: Combo Guard

Class: 2015


Breakdown: Smith has joined the Shore Shots and made his debut at the Hoop Group Presidents Day Showdown. According to event coordinator Joe Stein, Smith had an excellent all around weekend. Smith handled the rock, set up teammates, played defense and scored a few buckets on his own. His potential seems to be very high and his addition to this squad improves their chanced instantly. In this particular tourney he led them to the finals.

Gym Rat AAU Tryouts

On Saturday March 14th at Voorhees Middle School and March 15, 2009 at LaSalle University starting at 10am till noon, the Gym Rats Basketball Club will hold try-outs for their 12U boys team.

The 12U Gym Rats will compete at the NATIONAL Level. The present schedule is as follows:

April 24-26 Kingwood Classic in Houston, TX.

May 15-17 Dallas Spring Showcase in Dallas, TX

June 5-7 Spiece Summer Classic in Fort Wayne,IN

July 27-31 National Youth Championship in Las Vegas, NV


ALL EXPENSES PAID

OPEN TRY-OUTS (BRING YOUR GAME)
www.gymratmidnightmadness.org

Basketball Spotlight Top 10: 12 and Under Division

Team Final Gets #1 Nod

Basketball Spotlight will be releasing monthly team rankings for each age group. The Basketball Spotlight Top 10 will be based on quality tournament wins. We pride ourselves on being unbiased and letting the teams prove themselves on the floor. The season is young and there’s still a lot of basketball to be played. Here’s our first 12 and Under Regional Top 10.

Basketball Spotlight 12U Top 10

1. Team Final- Formerly Harvest Knights, this Mid-Atlantic squad has the size and guard play to make a deep run at the 12 and Under Nationals this summer. The recently won the Clash For The Cup and are one of the favorites for the Atlantic City Showcase. Right now we feel they are the team to beat.

2. Team Takeover- The MIT champs have a balanced attack and knows how to get things done. They made a deep run at the KSK tourney this year and are also a threat to win it in Atlantic City. We might be looking at a potential match up with #1 Team Final.

3. The City- This new squad won the MLK Classic and finished runner-up at the Clash For The Cup. They have athletic and skilled guard play while also getting the job done on the defensive end. The Atlantic City Showcase will be a true test for this group.

4. VA Cardinals- This was another squad I saw down at the MIT that caught my eye. I like their toughness and their execution on the offensive end. Their guard play was impressive and Tyvez Monroe handled the duties inside. They also bullied a few squads at the KSK tourney.

5. F.A.C.E.S.- This crew has regrouped this year especially at the guard spot. They made it to the finals at the MLK and the final four at the Grand Finale. At the MIT they made it out of a tough pool before losing to U-Turn. It will be interesting to see them in Atlantic City.

6. King Street Kings- KSK made it to the final four of their own tourney. They won New Heights tournament and made it out the pool at the MIT. Their guard play is their strength and they should make another run at a state crown again this year.

7. Gauchos- After making it to the finals of the Grand Finale I haven’t heard much from the Choz lately. This well coached group is always a threat to make noise so don’t sleep.

8. Long Island Lightning- LI Lightning once ruled this age group and are anxious to make back to the top. They made it to the playoffs in KSK tourney and have just been added to the Atlantic City Showcase.

9. Linden Ballers- The Garden State tough boys are still here and getting it in. This well coached bunch plays hard on both ends of the floor and are a few buckets away from getting to the next level.

10. Mid Jersey Heat- This might be the most improved team in the Top 10. Last year they were happy to stay in games now they are a threat to knock teams off. Keep an eye in this bunch and don’t be surprised if they moved up.

In The Spotlight: Perry Dozier

Name: Perry Dozier Jr.

AAU Team: Columbia Slammers

Hometown: Columbia, SC

Height: 5’6

Class: 2015



Breakdown: I’ve seen a lot of the top 6th Graders in the nation but Dozier might be one step ahead of them. Last season he destroyed the camp scene while making stops at the Jr. All American and Adidas Jr. Phenom Camp. His overall feel for the game is excellent and when you throw in skill level and potential size you might have a budding super star on your hands. Recently Dozier was invited to the NBA All Star Weekend to compete with the Jr. NBA All Star Team. Watch out for Dozier this year because you will be in for a treat. Check out a few of his videos and also his website.

Dozier Jr. League Play Highlights

Dozier Jr. At Jr. All American Camp

Dozier's Website

Dozier's Interview At Adidas Jr. Phenom

Basketball Spotlight Top 10: 13 and Under Division

Youth Interlock Is #1

Basketball Spotlight will be releasing monthly team rankings for each age group. The Basketball Spotlight Top 10 will be based on quality tournament wins. We pride ourselves on being unbiased and letting the teams prove themselves on the floor. The season is young and there’s still a lot of basketball to be played. Here’s our first 13 and Under Regional Top 10.

Basketball Spotlight 13U Top 10

1. Youth Interlock- On paper this squad has the talent to be something special. They won the KSK tourney and finished runner up at the MIT. They have all the necessary pieces to run through the region and make a power move for the crown in Memphis. Staying focus and keeping a common goal will be there keys to success.

2. Gauchos- The Choz are as solid as ever. They finished runner up in the Funsport Jr. Pro League and KSK tourney. They have sound guard play though top shooter Malachai Richardson has left to join Youth Interlock. Expect Steven Bush to step into that role to keep the engine going.

3. Team Nelson- Losing top scorer Shep Garner was a blow but Team Nelson responded by winning the Grand Finale. They just have that Chester toughness that helps them pull through in big time situations and with Nazier Chew joining this group they only get better.

4. Team Scan- The new kids on the block took home the MLK Classic crown and were runner up at the Grand Finale. They have a balanced attack with good guard and capable wings. They bring the noise each time out no matter the competition.

5. Future Players- This team from Maryland caught my eye at the MIT. I like there energy and size on the wings. Their guard play is very tight and they seem to never back down from the competition. Keep and eye on them.

6. Long Island Trotters- The Trotters added some pieces this year and seemed to have some success at KSK tourney. Thomas Holley still controls the paint and now he seems to have help on the wings with Timmy Quashie and Chance Ellis.

7. Team Underrated- TU has a new look but still can’t be taken for granted. Chris Davis is one of the top PG’s in this class period and he’s a gamer. They made it to the semifinals in the Grand Finale but expect more soon.

8. Team Kobe- Brandon Austin is out with an injury and Rashann London has left for Youth Interlock but the trio CJ Wolfe, Malik Smith and newly acquired Deante Cole should be able to hold it down.

9. New Haven Blazers- The boys from Connecticut made it to the finals of the MLK Classic. I like their gritty style and the sneaky talent they possess. Stay tune because you will hear more from them.

10. King Street Kings- KSK is still probably the number one team in Jersey and should repeat this year. They have solid big men but must add a scorer to their mix.

Atlantic City Deadline March 1st!

The Basketball Spotlight Atlantic City Showcase is drawing serious interest. Many teams have requested applications by email or phone call. To make this event a success will must have the schedule done in a timely fashion. This will help those traveling for out of the area places while also keep our events very organized. This being said we will have to enforce the March 1st registration deadline. Any team not fully registered by March 1st can be in jeopardy of losing their spot on the preliminary list (No Exceptions). Please Contact Mike Melton at 609-532-5122 or at basketballspotlight@hotmail.com if you have any questions.

Basketball Spotlight Top 10: 14 and Under Division

Team Nelson Holds #1 Spot

Basketball Spotlight will be releasing monthly team rankings for each age group. The Basketball Spotlight Top 10 will be based on quality tournament wins. We pride ourselves on being unbiased and letting the teams prove themselves on the floor. The season is young and there’s still a lot of basketball to be played. Here’s our first 14 and Under Regional Top 10.

Basketball Spotlight 14U Top 10

1. Team Nelson- The Chester crew checks in at the number 1 spot after winning the Grand Finale and breezing through the Hoop Group Presidents Day Classic. They have a balanced attack and really stress the importance of defense. If they keep this focus they are capable of going wire to wire in this spot.

2. NY Panthers- The Panthers won the Funsport in NYC and finished runner up at the Grand Finale. They are a very well coached bunch and have several weapons at their disposal. Coach Kat is one of the best in the business and he has this squad always prepared for battle.

3. Hoop Heaven- This squad started this young season well. They won the New Heights tourney, made to the semifinals of the Grand Finale and were on their way to winning the MLK Classic before dropping after a serious injury to Jared Sina.

4. Peacemakers- The Peacemakers have been relatively quiet thus far but I did get a look at their squad during the Elite 80 Expo (which they won) and feel they are a force to be reckon with. I have heard a few rumbles about their program so will wait to see.

5. Boston Saintz- The Saintz were very impressive during the Grand Finale. They made it to the semifinals and had a strong grudge match with NY Panthers. They have a very talented bunch and will be making a lot of noise this spring.

6. Playaz Basketball Club- PBC finished runner up at the New Heights tourney and are currently playing in their winter league Eight Is Enough. They have some talented players and should be even better in the spring when Matt Johnson returns from St. Anthony’s.

7. LI Lightning- I got chance to see the Lightning at Funsport at they have the talent make a serious run at several tourneys this summer. The combination of Jason Boswell and John Severe will be fun to watch.

8. KBR Fliers- The Fliers reunited this year and looked good winning the MLK Classic. They made it to the quarterfinals at the Grand Finale and should be a threat to win the NJ AAU crown. They are talented bunch.

9. Westchester Hawks- I got chance to see the Hawks at the MIT where they came up just short in the championship. They have good ball movement on offense and are a very scary team to match up with. They should move up in these rankings soon.

10. PPY Elite Pirates- I like the talent on this North Jersey. They are hungry for pub and can knock off any team on any given night. The combination of Will Joyce and Rakwan Kelly are a dangerous duo.

Elite 80 Expo Profile: Kavon Stewart

Name: Kavon Stewart

Position: Point Guard

HT: 5’9

Hometown: Paterson, NJ

AAU Team: Playaz

Strengths: Stewart is one of the slickest guards in the region. The Nick Van Exel type loves playing the game on any level. He has point guard skills but can get into a scoring mode when needed. I’ve seen in camps, showcases, AAU events and summer leagues and Kavon brings the same effort each time out.

Areas of Improvement: Kavon needs to get stronger to defend his position and run a team on the high school level. I also would like him to work on his shot selection and some decision making at the point. I would rather see him as a true point guard than a scorer on the next level.

Elite 80 Expo Profile: Conrad Chambers

Name: Conrad Chambers

Position: Point Guard

HT: 5’10

Hometown: Chester, PA

AAU Team: Team Nelson

Strengths: Chambers is one of the smoothest guards in the region. He can shoot the perimeter shot but really enjoys breaking down defenders on his way to the cup. He has a unique handle and changes direction or speeds with the best of them. On defense he moves his feet well and knows how to guard his position.

Areas of Improvement: On the next level Chambers might have to focus on being a true point guard and add some mass to his body. Being a true floor general will attract attention from college recruiters and the mass will help him on both ends of the floor.

Atlantic City Showcase Hotel Info!

Many teams have contacted us for hotels stay for the Atlantic City Showcase. Most teams are interested in staying close to the boardwalk. We contacted the Sheraton of Atlantic and they have the cheapest rate in town. The Sheraton Hotel is walking distance to the boardwalk, casinos, shopping outlets and restaurants.

The Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel
Two Miss America Way • Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401
(609)-344-3535
Rate: $149 A Night
Reservations will be available starting Thursday, Feb 26th
Say you’re with the Basketball Spotlight Tournament

Hoop Group Skills Camp Tournament of Champions

The Pocono Invitational Basketball Camp will be hosting their annual Tournament Of Champions March 13th thru 15th at Drew University. This event will feature some of the top teams in the region. We covered this event last year and give it thumbs up. Don’t miss out on the chance to start your season off with some of the top teams at the TOC.

Event: PIBC Tournament Of Champions

Place: Drew University

Date: March 13th thru 15th

Teams Interested Camp Adam at (732) 502-2255 or visit Pocono Invitational Link

In The Spotlight: Tyvez Monroe

Name: Tyvez Monroe

AAU Team: Virginia Cardinals

Height: 5’7

Class: 2015


Breakdown: I saw Tyvez at the MIT this past weekend and he played well enough to get an individual profile. The stocky wing forward has a multi-talented game meaning he can play close to 4 positions. In the semifinals against U-Turn he showed me his ball handling, outside stroke and body control when scoring around the basket. His wide frame allows him to shield defenders while dribbling or scoring in the paint. Finally, Monroe plays the game with great passion and was extremely upset when his squad came up short.

Basketball Spotlight Video Highlight Page!

Basketball Spotlight entered the video era in October. We currently have several event highlights on our Youtube page. There were some exciting moments this year and we caught a lot of them with our camera coverage. These highlights are from the Elite 80 Expo, Grand Finale 08 and Clash For The Cup. Enjoy!

Elite 80 Expo (Georgetown vs. Arizona)

Elite 80 Expo (Duke vs. North Carolina)

Elite 80 Expo Championship (Arizona vs. Duke)

Elite 80 Expo Highlight HSSMTV Remix

Grand Finale 14 and Under
Championship

Grand Finale 12 and Under Championship

Grand Finale 13 and Under Championship

Grand Finale 11 and Under Championship

Clash For The Cup 11 and Under Championship

Clash For The Cup 12 and Under Championship

Atlantic City Showcase Is Here!

The Basketball Spotlight Atlantic City Showcase Tournament has received early interest and seems to shaping up to a good event. This tournament will be held in Atlantic City March 21st and 22nd. Here’s a look at some of the committed teams. If you are interested in attending this event please request an application from Mike Melton at basketballspotlight@hotmail.com or by phone at 609-532-5122. There’s 12 spots for each age group. Deadline is March 1st or when event sells out. The limit for teams attending this event is 60.

Gym Sites:

Atlantic City High School
1400 North Albany Ave
Atlantic City, NJ 08401

Uptown School Complex
322 Madison Ave
Atlantic City, NJ 08401

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School
1700 Marmora Ave
Atlantic City, NJ 08401

Hotels Info

14U Teams
1. Team Nelson
2. Delaware Hawks
3. Team Underrated
4. Move Your Feet
5. Linden Ballers
6. Mid Jersey Heat
7. Garden State Knights
8. Team Artest
9. SJ Blitz
10.
11.
12.

13U Teams
1. Team NJ ABC
2. Team Rebels
3. Team Nelson
4. Team MVP
5. CJ Jammers
6. Team Underrated
7. Team Final
8. Mid Jersey Heat
9. Team Artest
10. Youth Interlock
11. NJ Shore Shots
12. Westchester Hawks
13.
14.
15.
16.

12U Teams
1. Team Rebels
2. F.A.C.E.S.
3. Team Final
4. The City
5. Team MVP
6. Team Underrated
7. Team Crossover Elite
8. All Mighty Force Warriors
9. Linden Ballers
10. Mid Jersey Heat
11. Team Artest
12. Gauchos
13. NJ Shore Shots
14. DC Assault
15.
16.

11U Teams
1. Team Battle
2. F.A.C.E.S.
3. Team Underrated
4. Team Artest
5. Mid Jersey Heat
6. Team NJ ABC
7. Team Final
8. Team Takeover
9. JKMBA Jaguars
10.
11.
12.

10U Teams
1. Team NJ ABC
2. South Jersey Blitz
3. Team Underrated Black
4. Team Underrated White
5.
6.
7.
8.

Diary Of A Baller: Jason Boswell Entry #15

Wassup basketball world its Jason Boswell back again to tell you how I’ve been doing.

I got my report card. My average is an 86. Yeah I get it in. In school, Lol. On the basketball side I recently went to the Nike Super 6 with my close friends and basketball junkies. It was live. I saw a lot of talent and I took a lot of the top player’s moves and incorporated it into my game. I also had a game in IS8 recently I played very well. We won. I love playing with these guys. I also had a game in Tru Ballers tournament. Me and my lightning teammate Jaequan Brown killed we play very well together. After that game my dad and Daniel Dingle & I went to the Primetime Shootout in New Jersey. I enjoyed it and picked up a lot of stuff.

I ended off my weekend with a practice with one of my favorite coaches Shandue McNeil. I also had fun at practice with my little man Jerron Love. That’s my little man. He always tries to compete with me in practice that’s what I like. On Monday, I had a workout with my coach from Lightning Dana Dingle it was fun. We played full court games. Dana suited up. Lol, he was killing me & Daniel but I held my own, lol.

Well that ended my week hope you enjoyed.

MIT Recap 12 and Under: Team Takeover Wins The Title

Bryant Crawford (Team Takeover)

The 12 and Under Bracket at the MIT was by far the most competitive and exciting. There were some top teams and we got a chance to check out some new talent on the horizon. Team Takeover won the crown knocking off U-Turn in the finals 55-45. Here’s a look at some of the top players that were on display in Day 2.

MIT Top Performers 12 and Under Division

Bryant Crawford Guard (Team Takeover)- I wrote in my Day 1 recap that this kid had something special about his game and on Day 2 he proved me right. Crawford showed great poise and the ability to make shots the entire afternoon. His calm demeanor and complete concentration separates him from most of his peers. He scores the ball in a variety of way; on the break, from the perimeter with a sweet stroke or at the charity where he’s usually automatic. In the finals against U-Turn he finished with 32 of his teams 55 points.

Tony Blackwell Forward (Team Takeover)- Blackwell didn’t score much in the finals but his energy and ability to chase down loose balls and rebounds made a difference for his team. Whenever any shot his going up is already boxing out and out hustling opponents to the rock. On defense he’s very active and tries to keep a hand in the shooters face. Tony brings Dennis Rodman type energy to a game.

Tim Womack Guard (Team Takeover)- Womack spent a lot of time running the point in the finals. He can either run the show or set up teammates at anytime. I like his mid range pull up and he also seems to have decent size for his position.

Trevor Brown Forward (Team Takeover)- Brown played on the blocks with Blackwell and complimented him well. He got numerous weak side rebounds and scored on a couple of put-backs. He’s a big body that gave his team some big minutes in the paint.

Rick DeBerry Forward (U-Turn)- DeBerry plays in the paint for U-Turn and his athleticism caused problems for opponents all weekend. He runs the floor very quickly and will try to handle the pill from time to time. He will have to work on touch with his shot especially around the rim.

Malik Johnson Guard (U-Turn)- Johnson was one of the most exciting players in the building. He had to be the smallest guard in this division but the Allen Iverson type got the job done. He has an excellent handle, speed and a floater that others will die for. Johnson also has good leaping ability for a player his size.

Jonathan Williams Guard (U-Turn)- Williams was the perimeter threat for U-Turn. He’s a big guard that gets his way to the basket with swift dribbling moves and court smartness. He can score from the perimeter or driving into the lane. I like his toughness.

Carlos Thrash Guard (Virginia Cardinals)- Thrash is another pint size guard you need to look out for. He plays the game with tremendous fire and will play the mental test with opponents by talking to them. Carlos also has deep range and the ability to finish in traffic. Defensively, he digs in deep and applies pressure for 94 feet.

Marcus Adkison Guard (Virginia Cardinals)- Adkison is a bigger guard for this VA crew. His slick handle and knack for scoring helped him carry the load for the Cardinals. He had a good showing in their semifinal loss to U-Turn. Marcus has a good upside.

Temple Gibbs Guard (KSK)- Gibbs did his thing when I watched their game against Team Takeover. His basketball IQ is tremendous and he used his body control to score or initiated contact which led to trips to the charity stripe. Temple had a chance to tie the game but his 3 pointer it front iron in the closing moments.

Bryce Aiken Guard (KSK)- Aiken had a good weekend shooting and distributing the pill. Despite his size Aiken is one of the top guards in the region and he showed it. When his trey ball is falling guarding him becomes very difficult because his quickness allows him to blow past over playing defenders.

Justin Salem Guard (KSK)- Salem also had a good shooting weekend at the MIT. The Kings drive and kick offense allows him to catch the rock in the seams of the defense and nail jumpers. He has good form and it seems like most of his shots are going to drop.

Nick Lubisher Guard (F.A.C.E.S.)- F.A.C.E.S. loss to eventual champ U-Turn but Lubiser shot the ball well from behind the arc and gave his squad some serious minutes off the bench. He was able to help apply defensive pressure from the guard position and use his outside stroke to help in a comeback attempt.

MIT Recap 13 and Under: Houston Selects Outlast Youth Interlock

Brandon Etienne (Houston Select)

Tony Upchurch scored 21 of his 24 points in the second half as Houston Select defeated Youth Interlock 67-56 to win the MIT 13 and Under Championship. Austin Tilgham led YT with 21 points in the loss.

Championship Game Top Performers

Brandon Etienne Guard (Houston Select)- Brandon gave Youth Interlock fits all game. He killed them with long range and mid range jumpers while also dropping in a floater or two. They had no one that could keep him out the lane and he seemed to make big play after big play. He was a huge difference in the game.

Tony Upchurch Forward (Houston Select)- Upchurch wasn’t really involved in the game during the first half but when the second stanza started he went to work. Tony can hit the set shot even from 3 point range and even pushed the rock coast to coast on several occasions. He has developed his dribbling some but still needs to work on changing directions and passing on the move.

Kelly Oubre Guard (Houston Select)- You have to like Oubre for several reasons. First of all he can stroke it pretty well and when you throw in his size you might have a serious prospect looming. In the finals he picked his spot and made sure he did the job once the ball got into his hands.

Austin Tilghman Guard (Youth Interlock)- This was by far Austin’s best offensive game of the tourney. He started the contest with two treys from the top of the key. He then made HS pay with several tough drives to the cup. He seemed like he was on a mission to get his team that crown.

Wa’mere Murphy Forward (Youth Interlock)- Murphy had a productive game with some strong finishes near the basket. In terms of athleticism there a few that can hang with him but he did get a little frustrated which threw him off his game. He’s a very talented youngster.

Maryland Invitational: Day 1 Top Performers 13U

Wa'mere Murphy (Youth Interlock)

The Maryland Invitational took place this weekend and Basketball Spotlight was in the building. We got a chance to really check out the 12U and 13U today and here’s a look at who impressed us the most.

Maryland Invitational Top Performers 13 and Under

Wa’mere Murphy Forward (Youth Interlock)- Another year is here and Murphy is still dominating his age group. He just explodes over defenders when scoring at the rim. He has developed some ball handling skills but must remain under control when attacking the rim. His outside shot also needs some retooling but he still had a good showing.

Shepard Garner Guard (Youth Interlock)- Garner can turn on the switch offensively when he wants. He has take over the game potential and showed it a few times today. He’s quicker than I first thought and showed me some good court vision once he entered the lane. He also played some lock down defense when things got critical.

Kamari Peel Forward (Youth Interlock)- Peel also has joined this powerful bunch. He gave them some minutes in the post and showed some improved post moves and touch. Defensively he gives them another long body to alter shots and hitting the glass.

Rashann London Guard (Youth Interlock)- London came over from Team Kobe and it looks like a good fit. Now he a play his true wing position and he looked good doing it. He’s very long on defense while roaming the passing lanes. On offense he’s a quick slasher that will also grab some boards.

Austin Tilghman Guard (Youth Interlock)- Austin brought it on the defensive end. He used his solid frame to contain ball handlers and join his teammates on the glass. In a game that many players concentrate mainly on the offensive it’s good to Tilghman go hard on D.

Kadeem Wright Guard (Richmond Metro)- Wright gave YT all they could handle. The slender combo guard has deep range and some nice dribbling moves. He will hit you with a few crossovers and then nail a jumper in your eyes. He plays the game with tremendous heart.

Joshua Boone Forward (Richmond Metro)- I like what I see in Boone. His long arms and ability makes him an interesting prospect. On the blocks he likes the up and under move while using soft touch to kiss it off the glass. He also isn’t afraid to hit the boards for some caroms. This is a name you will hear some day on a national scale.

Eric Cheatham Guard (Richmond Metro)- Cheatham took over the point and calmed his squad down. He has good penetration skills and will drain the trey of left open. When the ball is in his hands he sets the tempo and got teammates involved.


Garrick Ellis Guard (Richmond Metro)- Ellis is a spot up shooter that will burn you if he is left unguarded. Down the stretch he made some tough plays towards the cup. His range is deep and he has enough strength to absorb contact while scoring in the lane.

Leroy Butts Forward (Future Players)- As predicted Butts has grown a few more inches and has a serious impact on the game. The lefty did damage on the blocks but also has extended his range a little. His wingspan is that of a center and he still has a few more inches to go. We might be seeing something special in Butts.

Cedrick McFadden Guard (Future Players)- If you look up true point guard in the dictionary McFadden’s picture should be next to the meaning. The lightning quick PG blew past defenders and spoon feed teammates all day. He likes working off the pick and roll while also being a scoring threat himself. He was a joy to watch.

Raquan Zimmerman Guard (Future Players)- FP needed a strong wing player to help them make a National run and Zimmerman might be the answer. He has an awkward release on his outside shot but seems to be a natural scorer. In transition is very quick and athletic.

Maryland Invitational: Day 1 Top Performers 12U

Tony Blackwell (Team Takeover)

The Maryland Invitational took place this weekend and Basketball Spotlight was in the building. We got a chance to really check out the 12U and 13U today and here’s a look at who impressed us the most.

Maryland Invitational Top Performers 12 and Under

Tony Blackwell Forward (Team Takeover)- Blackwell is an active player that get involves by playing with a fast pace and get things done. He’s a workhorse on the glass and knows how to score in any situation. His potential seems to be on the upside because he also can put the rock on the floor.

Jeffrey Duwhn Guard (Team Takeover)- Jeff first caught my eye with his aggressive defense. He pressured the pill and caused serious turnovers. Then I got a chance to see his offensive skills. He has a nice stroke and runner in the lane in his arsenal. He also can handle the point spot if needed.

Kenny Wormley Guard (Team Takeover)- Wormley is the true floor general for this crew. He runs the point with poise and makes sure everybody get their touches. He has a smooth handle and very good court vision. He doesn’t try to force the action which is good because he knows how to use his weapons.

Bryant Crawford Guard (Team Takeover)- Statically Crawford wasn’t awesome but when you watch him rock you can see how nice he really is. He has size for a true wing guard and the touch from the perimeter to go with it. Some players just can get things done without exerting much effort and he seems to be in this category.

Jamil Hood Guard (Albany Dream Team)- Hood is a slick point guard with a lot of game. His handle is quick, precise and he seems to like to pass first which is important. In his game against Team Takeover he tried to break their press but it was difficult because he was the only ball handler. Expect Hood to make noise soon.

Blake Jorge Forward (Albany Dream Team)- Jorge patrolled the paint for ADT and did a good job crashing the glass and getting a few put backs. He’s probably going to be a guard in high school but he already can handle the pill a little so the transition shouldn’t be that difficult. But he does need to develop a wing jumper.

Devante’ Carter Guard (New Generation)- Carter runs the point for the Virginia squad. He has a crafty handle and enough length to get his floater off over anybody. When things got tight down the stretch for his team he took over the game and either scored got teammates open looks. He also showed ice water veins at the charity stripe to help seal the game. I like his swagger.

Richard Washington Guard (New Generation)- The southpaw is a smooth scorer that finishes at the rim very effectively and can hit the trey ball regularly. When Carter penetrates Washington spotted up and if the defense over played he got to the cup quickly. Keep an eye on this kid.

Jalen Cross Guard (New Generation)- Speaking of deadeye shooters Cross can tickle the twine from anywhere in the gym. He’s one of those players that every time he lets a shot go it seems like it’s going in. He also went to the free throw line and drained some freebies in the final moments.

Wanya Allen Forward (Virginia Hurrikanes)- Allen clogged the middle for his squad and has a soft touch when letting it go in the lane. He likes to go hard right then burst up for a running one hander or just hit the defender with a pump fake before dropping in a smooth bucket.

Jack Laffy Forward (F.A.C.E.S.)- Laffy gave his squad some big minutes today. It was a rugged game and he made some serious plays on the post. I like how he battled for rebounds and loose balls but what really caught my eye was his passing from the blocks. He hit teammates cutting with good precision.

Brian Brown Forward (F.A.C.E.S.)- Brown was a pest on defense all evening. He played the middle of the press and caused several steals which led to opportunities for his squad. His energy and defensive prowess helped his team pull out a hard fought victory.

Trey Lowe Guard (F.A.C.E.S.)- Lowe got behind the defense and made some game clinching plays. When ADT was trying to foul Lowe broke for the homerun pass and made them pay a few plays in a row. He also earned several trips to the charity stripe.

Otis Livingston Guard (KSK)- Livingston put on a clinic with his dribbling, shooting and passing today. He broke down the defenders at will, canned the open trey and dropped several dimes to teammates. He also scored in transition like it was very easy.