"Grande" Long Will Be Patrolling The Paint!Now that we have broken down the teams headed to the 12U Nationals. Here's a look at some of the top players to watch by position. First we will talk about the ballers controlling the paint.
12U Nationals Top Power Forwards
Raekwon "Grande" Long (QCAA)- Long is probably the only player on this list that can be considered a center. The 6'9 space eater will command much attention as soon as he enters the building. He's a constant shot blocker and is steadily improving on the offensive end. Expect a lot of noise from this youngster.
Harry Giles (Team Felton)- Giles is a wiry forward that will probably move to the wing very soon. Potentially he has a chance to be very good with hard work. Many other analyst will be screaming this name very soon.
Darius Gillon (Team Battle)- Gillon made a splash last year at the Nationals. Now the southpaw has taken his game to another level in terms of ball handling. When he's focused he can dominate a game on the blocks.
Idris Joyner (NJ Got Game)- Joyner has emerged as one of the top prospects in the region. He's long and athletic while being able to convert inside. He's not a finished product as of yet which is good in the basketball world. His best days are well ahead of him.
Terrell Turner (New Heights)- Turner has improved his quickness and become very productive on the offensive end. He gives New Heights a viable option on the post. Keep an eye on Turner.
Ceasar Adim (MABC)- "Hail" Ceasar has been a dominant force on the East Coast. He runs the floor like a deer and is capable on controlling the game on both ends. He's known in the Northeast and is hungry for some national pub.
Christian Ford (F.A.C.E.S)- Ford has shown good strides on the post. He scores better and hits the boards harder than a year ago. He will eventually become a wing player but right now he can be considered a force inside.
Daveyon Barnes (Sam Cassell All Stars)- Barnes will turn a few heads in Hampton. He's athletic and knows how to play his position. He resembles a Baby Shaq but runs the floor fluidly. The SCA guards need to pump the rock to this kid.
Trey Carter (Tidewater Wildcats)- Carter is a little undersized but is more athletic than most. He uses his leaping ability to hammer the glass and convert put backs. He will be anxious to show his hometown fans his work.
Kenneth Gorham (Carolina Flight)- Gorham is a total work horse on the blocks. His wing span allows him to play bigger than his size. He constantly fights for position which is rare and impressive at this age.
Anthony Dockery (Ohio Prep Hoyas)- Dockery also plays bigger than his size. He's a quick leaper and has good body control when scoring. His heart and determination will be needed for the Hoyas to roar.
Nick Ward (Ohio Warriors)- The lefty can score with the best of them. He uses his wide frame to box out and drop buckets. He's also capable of scoring in bunches. Don't let the nice smile fool you.
Quadair Bradley (Philly Triple Threat)- Bradley handles the paint for PTT. He roams the baseline while hammering in buckets inside. He's light on his feet and gets off the ground rather quickly. He also possesses that Philly toughness.
Quadir Phillips (Peacemakers)- Phillips is still developing on the offensive end but is a serious shot blocker and rebounder. His long frame allows him to alter shots and play the passing lanes.
