Youth Interlock Takes Title!Today four of the Top 10 13U teams in the region locked up at the Youth Interlock Tournament and Basketball Spotlight was in the building. Shepard Garner scored 25 points including 5 treys and Wa’mere Murphy scored 21 points as Youth Interlock defeated Team Nelson 78-51 to win the championship. Tyrell Sturdivant scored 11 points for Team Nelson in the loss.
Top Performers
Shepard Garner Guard (Youth Interlock)- Garner caught fire from the perimeter and never let up. The aggressive combo guard went hard on both ends of the floor and is extremely difficult to stop on this level. He’s one of the most explosive players in the region regardless of class. He showed us many different facets of his game today.
Wa’mere Murphy Forward (Youth Interlock)- Murphy excelled in transition as Youth Interlock broke TN’s press early on. Once he received the rock in the open floor he scored easily over Team Nelson’s post players. Murphy also showed the ability to pull up for a short jumper or floater. He capped off his day with a thunderous dunk in the closing moments.
Rashann London Guard (Youth Interlock)- London shot the rock well all day. His length caused problems on both ends of the floor. He had the 3 ball falling and was also able to attack the rim. He gives YI another bona-fide perimeter threat on this talented team. 
Tyrell Sturvidant Forward (Team Nelson)- Tyrell had a good showing during the semifinals and championship. The long forward was mobile enough to get past many defenders and stretch out for baskets. On defense he was a capable shot blocker and rebounder.
Christian Irons Forward (Team Nelson)- During their semifinal win against Team Kobe Irons made his presence felt on the glass and in the mid range area. He’s a bit undersized at the forward position but uses his long arms and box out skills to snatch caroms.
Kyle Coleman Guard (Team Nelson)- Coleman also gave a better showing in the semis. He had the outside shot dropping and was also able to penetrate Team Kobe defense and score in the lane. He needs to have games like this for them to be successful.
Brandon Austin Guard (Team Kobe)- This was Austin’s first game back since his wrist injury and you could see it on the floor. His talent made his presence felt but he handled the rock and tried to finish primarily with his left hand while protecting his right wrist. He also was a little winded while trying to get back into basketball shape. But we also feel once he gets back to himself he will be a problem to deal with.
CJ Wolfe Guard (Team Kobe)- I also like the strides Wolfe has made in his game. His ball handling and scoring ability has increased but what really stands out is his swagger on the floor. He really feels he can get past anybody and score at the basket.
Ethan Ridgeway Guard (Team Rebels)- Ridgeway’s squad had a tough day against YI but his play caught my eye. I like his poise when running the team and the fight he showed even when the game got out of reach. We will be keeping an eye on him.
