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.
