Maryland Bulls Are ChampionsIsiah Lavan scored 32 points and Charif Shell added 21 markers as Maryland Bulls defeated the NYC Gauchos 60-57 to in the Show Me Invitational 11 and Under crown. Shamorie Ponds finished with 25 points for the Choz in the loss.
Spotlight Performers
Charif Shell Forward (Maryland Bulls)- Shell was the most dominant post player I’ve seen in this age group all season. He’s virtually automatic around the basket and has a huge hunger for rebounds. This youngster has an array of post moves and truly affects the game on both ends of the floor. He literally feasted on the competition today and cleaned the glass like the Windex Man.
Isiah Lavan Forward (Maryland Bulls)- Lavan didn’t have a good showing in the semifinals vs. F.A.C.E.S. but he erupted in the finals. In the chip I got a chance to see him push the rock and go unchallenged to the basket on several occasions. The southpaw played the middle of the press break and once he caught the pass he made the Gauchos pay with bucket after bucket. He was a joy to watch.
Tarik Harris Guard (Maryland Bulls)- It was Harris clutch plays down the stretch in the semifinals that helped MB get past a stubborn F.A.C.E.S. squad. He was able to handle their pressure while making some key passes and buckets down the stretch. 
Shamorie Ponds Guard (Gauchos)- Ponds is just a flat out scorer. He torched every time they faced today with eye popping treys and twisting finishes at the basket. He was spectacular against Sam Cassell All Stars during the semifinals and helped the Gauchos fight Maryland Bulls all the way to the end. There might not be a better pure scorer in the region at this age level.
Brandon Randolph Guard (Gauchos)- I also got a good look at Brandon during their 3 games and the streaky wing guard had his outside falling which opened up his mid range game. When defenders ran out on his jumper he made them pay with the floater. He also did his usual damage in transition by using his speed to be the defense to the basket.
Isiah Wilkins Forward (Gauchos)- The big guy needs some work on both ends of the floor but still had a presence on the floor. He blocked shots, hit the boards and converted on a few lay ups in close. His playing time seems to be increasing and his play showing that he deserves it.
Sa’eed Nelson Guard (F.A.C.E.S.)- The ultra quick guard seems to have become comfortable with his team squad. He was a demon on defense collecting 8 steals against Sam Cassell and should some scoring prowess when the Newark squad went into a little slump. The more comfortable he becomes the more dangerous they will be.
Brandon Anderson Guard (F.A.C.E.S.)- Anderson came off the bench and gave his team a spark with his outside shooting and defense. His 3 point shots open up the lead in the first half against Maryland Bulls and helped them make a late run after the lost the lead in the second half.
Ray Montilous Forward (F.A.C.E.S.)- Montilous is always outsized by his opponents on the post but finds a way to be productive in the game. His quickness and explosive leaping ability keeps opponents at bay. Once he gets around defenders he explodes to the hole for a bucket. He had a couple of strong outings today.
Daquan Bracey Guard (Sam Cassell All Stars)- Bracey is a powerful show time guard. He loves the up fake hesitation crossover and is strong enough to finish multiple ways around the cup. He gave numerous squads problems by breaking their pressure defense with his dribbling skills. Also don’t sleep on his outside shot and court vision.
Everette Winchester Guard (Sam Cassell All Stars)- I’m very impressed with this kids poise and demeanor on the floor. He’s a silky smooth ball handler and has the length to pull up in the lane against anyone. Certain players catch my eye in terms of upside and Winchester seems like that type of baller. This is a name to know.
Devin Smith Guard (Sam Cassell All Stars)- Smith a quiet assassin. I like his mid range scoring ability because at this age many youngsters prefer to chuck it behind the arc. I always finds a away to get behind the defense which makes his scoring much easier. This kid has game.
Kani Coles Forward (Sam Cassell All Stars)- Coles is a strong scorer inside and uses his wide frame to get shots off or gain trips to the charity stripe. He gets good post position and finds a way to maneuver around bigger defenders on the floor. Sometimes during the game he lets his emotions get to him but we have to remember he’s only 11.Adam Frink Guard (Playtime Panthers)- Frink team wasn’t a match for the Gauchos but he showed that pure stroke that he is known for. If he gets a chance to set his feet it’s usually money in the bank. He really shot the ball well from the perimeter.
