Basketball Spotlight 13U Award Winners

Youth Interlock Finihsed #9 In The Country

The 13U AAU division had some interesting stories and action. Basketball Spotlight has chosen its awards winners and would like to congratulate all of them. Here’s the final breakdown of the season for this age group.

Team Of The Year

Youth Interlock: This team was assembled to win it all. They came up a little short but ran through many squads in their quest. They conquered several tournaments including the Mid Atlantic Regionals in dominating fashion. They finished #9 in the country.

Player Of The Year

Shepard Garner: Few youngsters brought the intensity, focus and production like Garner. Having talent is one thing but Shepard’s will to win is special. On several occasions I witnessed his demeanor lift the spirit of his teammates which is the sign of a star. Keep working hard young man.


Coach Of The Year

Malik Walker: After losing a talent like Garner many programs would be on the verge of folding but Walker rallied his troops. His Team Nelson crew won the Triple Crown and finished 3rd in their competitive region. He did a great job.



Sportsmanship Award

Matt Reiss: After playing the entire MDC tourney with a cracked rib Reiss was a no-brainer for this award. During that tourney he helped his crew get all the way to the finals. He showed true guts.




Best Play Maker

Nazier Chew: Chew gave Team Nelson a shot in the arm once he joined the squad. His ability to push the rock and create opportunities propelled them to a few pieces of hardware.

Best Defender

Austin Tilghman: This kid tries to use his power and smartness to lock down the top player from the other squad. Tilghman is willing to dig down deep while also moving his feet to get the job done.
Best Shooter

Jake Dadika: This kid has tremendous range and great accuracy once he lets it go. He led his team to a solid season while not backing down from any opposing guards. Keep an eye on this kid.

Best Scorer

Adeyinka Adams: This combo guard always finds away to fill it up. His mid range game and ability to finish at the cup makes him a dangerous player at all times. He scores the rock quickly and in bunches.

Best Backcourt:

Shaquan Worthy, Isiah Powell and Wade Baldwin: Team NJ ABC was one of the smallest teams in the region but their backcourt play brought them a NJ State title. Any team that faced them can attest to this.

Best 1st Year Program

Team Scan: Coach Williams’s crew came out of nowhere and took home several titles. They traveled the East Coast and represented to the fullest. They are a dangerous program.

Most Improved

Isiah Powell: Powell came out this season and lit up the scoreboards. His shooting ability and improved dribble drive game stood out. Once again he should be considered one of the top guards in the region.

13U Final Rankings

1. Youth Interlock
2. Juice All Stars
3. Gauchos
4. Team Nelson
5. Team Kobe
6. Team Scan
7. Team Final
8. Team NJ ABC
9. Philly Select
10. Team Underrated