Kyle Elliot (NJ Got Game)
This weekend we traveled up north for the Show Me Invitational. This event featured some of the top teams in the region. Basketball Spotlight was in the building and here’s our 12U report Part 2.
Top Performers Part 2
Kyle Elliot Forward (NJ Got Game)- I was really impressed with Elliot. His hit the glass and played the passing lane. Once he got the rock he pushed the pill up the floor like a guard. He was the top performer in this age group Day 1.
Nyrique Smith Guard (NJ Got Game)- Things seemed too easy for Smith on Day 1. He stuffed the stats sheet in every area. I really love his court vision and willlingness to get everyone else involved. When it times to take over he steps his game up.
Unique McLean Forward (Brooklyn Kings)- This kid was one of the top performers in the building. He exploded to the cup for easy buckets and shoots well with either hand. I think his teammates should have looked to get him the rock a little more. He has the ability to take over the game.
Brandon Leftwich Guard (Brooklyn Kings)- Leftwich has a lot of game. He gets in the lane at will and even has a mid range shot. This kid has some star quality he might be a big name soon.
Hamidou Diallo Guard (Brooklyn Kings)- Diallo can shoot if from deep but also loves attacking. He has that NYC flair and toughness needed to get victories. He had a decent showing against Playtime.
Bobby Weisse Guard (NJ Shore Shots)- Weisse heated up against F.A.C.E.S. knocking down 5 treys in their loss. The crowd really go into it as Bobby was draining shots. I like the confidence he showed against this defensive squad.
Ken Lepping Forward (NJ Shore Shots)- Lepping has a huge inside presense on this level. He rebounds the ball well and will eventually develop some post moves. He should be a name to hear from in the future.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Show Me Invitational: 12U Top Performers Part 1
Daquan Bracey (Baltimore Panthers)
This weekend we traveled up north for the Show Me Invitational. This event featured some of the top teams in the region. Basketball Spotlight was in the building and here’s our 12U report Part 1.
Top Performers Part 1
Daquan Bracey Guard (Baltimore Panthers)- The powerful southpaw’s court vision is tremendous for this age. His drive, draw and dish game made a huge impact in both contest. He does need to tighten up his outside shot which would make him more dangerous.
Khalil Richard Guard (Baltimore Panthers)- Richard is another smooth guard from B-More. He loves putting pastry on his passes and draining deep outside shots. He loves using the hesitation dribble to get around defenders and get to the hole.
Devin Smith Guard (Baltimore Panthers)- Smith is a deep threat and enjoys leaking out into transition for easy buckets. He made some big plays in their overtime win versus F.A.C.E.S..
Dreshawn Winston Guard (Baltimore Panthers)- Winston was a tough player inside by hammering the glass. He is still in his developing stage as a post player but did made the game winning shot against F.A.C.E.S..
Christian Ford Forward (F.A.C.E.S.)- Ford picked up his play down the stretch against Baltimore Panthers. He kissed the turnaround off the glass and made a strong effort on the boards.
Ray Montilous Forward (F.A.C.E.S.)- Montilous helped his squad fight off a huge deficit against BP. He knows how to hit the gaps and stretch for buckets. He also spent a lot of time at the charity stripe.
MJ Richardson Guard (Playtime)- Richardson found his stroke against NJ Got Game. He knocked down 4 treys which stretched the defense. He also loves to use the crossover to get into the lane.
Ty Johnson Guard (Playtime)- Johnson can shoot the rock from very deep. He sets up on the wing while launching shots as soon as he touches the rock. He hit some big shots in their win against the Brooklyn Kings.
Taj Benning Guard (Playtime)- Benning is another guard with a slick handle. His focus is getting into the lane and using the floater to score. Benning is also capable of draining the open shot.
This weekend we traveled up north for the Show Me Invitational. This event featured some of the top teams in the region. Basketball Spotlight was in the building and here’s our 12U report Part 1.
Top Performers Part 1
Daquan Bracey Guard (Baltimore Panthers)- The powerful southpaw’s court vision is tremendous for this age. His drive, draw and dish game made a huge impact in both contest. He does need to tighten up his outside shot which would make him more dangerous.
Khalil Richard Guard (Baltimore Panthers)- Richard is another smooth guard from B-More. He loves putting pastry on his passes and draining deep outside shots. He loves using the hesitation dribble to get around defenders and get to the hole.
Devin Smith Guard (Baltimore Panthers)- Smith is a deep threat and enjoys leaking out into transition for easy buckets. He made some big plays in their overtime win versus F.A.C.E.S..
Dreshawn Winston Guard (Baltimore Panthers)- Winston was a tough player inside by hammering the glass. He is still in his developing stage as a post player but did made the game winning shot against F.A.C.E.S..
Christian Ford Forward (F.A.C.E.S.)- Ford picked up his play down the stretch against Baltimore Panthers. He kissed the turnaround off the glass and made a strong effort on the boards.
Ray Montilous Forward (F.A.C.E.S.)- Montilous helped his squad fight off a huge deficit against BP. He knows how to hit the gaps and stretch for buckets. He also spent a lot of time at the charity stripe.
MJ Richardson Guard (Playtime)- Richardson found his stroke against NJ Got Game. He knocked down 4 treys which stretched the defense. He also loves to use the crossover to get into the lane.
Ty Johnson Guard (Playtime)- Johnson can shoot the rock from very deep. He sets up on the wing while launching shots as soon as he touches the rock. He hit some big shots in their win against the Brooklyn Kings.
Taj Benning Guard (Playtime)- Benning is another guard with a slick handle. His focus is getting into the lane and using the floater to score. Benning is also capable of draining the open shot.
Show Me Invitational: 11U Top Performers
Boubacar Kamissoko (Playtime Panthers)
This weekend we traveled up north for the Show Me Invitational. This event featured some of the top teams in the region. Basketball Spotlight was in the building and here’s our 11U report.
Top Performers Day 1
Boubacar Kamissoko Guard (Playtime)- Boubacar put on a scoring show today. His pull up was sweet and he gets anywhere he wants on the floor. He did a lot of damage against Team Elite finishing #1 in the scoring column. This kid is nice.
Terrell Bonner Guard (Playtime)- This kid has the toughness of a bulldog today. He continuously put pressure on the defense with dribble drives and drawing fouls. On defense he applies a lot of full court pressure.
Sa’eed Nelson Guard (F.A.C.E.S.)- Nelson shined playing on his age level. His defensive presence was felt early and often. After he picked ball handlers he pushed the rock up the floor for easy buckets. He finished the game as the leading scorer.
RJ Cole Guard (F.A.C.E.S.)- Cole also looked very comfortable on his age level. The lefty got out into transition and scored easy. His outside shot caught fire in his final game. He also was a defensive hound.
Kyle Lofton Guard (F.A.C.E.S.)- Lofton explodes to the hole with a burst of energy. His dribble drives got him to the cup quickly then he used cleverness to get his shot off. He’s a serious threat.
Tyson Etienne Guard (Team Elite)- Tyson launched a couple of high arching treys. I like the way he floats his shot in the lane over shot blockers. This guard has a quick and slick handle.
Jahvon Quinerly Guard (Team Elite)- Jahvon runs the point and has some flair in his game. He has nice size for a guard and handles the pill very effectively. He didn’t have a great game against Playtime but I could see his potential.
Kyle Brown Guard (Team Elite)- I like this youngster’s stroke and feel for the game. His handle is also decent but he’s definitely a shoot first guard. He’s capable of filling up quickly.
Brandon Askew Guard (Gatlin Puma’s)- Askew has the frame of a post player but plays with the quickness of a guard. He loves to shake and bake when finishing off plays. Keep an eye on him.
This weekend we traveled up north for the Show Me Invitational. This event featured some of the top teams in the region. Basketball Spotlight was in the building and here’s our 11U report.
Top Performers Day 1
Boubacar Kamissoko Guard (Playtime)- Boubacar put on a scoring show today. His pull up was sweet and he gets anywhere he wants on the floor. He did a lot of damage against Team Elite finishing #1 in the scoring column. This kid is nice.
Terrell Bonner Guard (Playtime)- This kid has the toughness of a bulldog today. He continuously put pressure on the defense with dribble drives and drawing fouls. On defense he applies a lot of full court pressure.
Sa’eed Nelson Guard (F.A.C.E.S.)- Nelson shined playing on his age level. His defensive presence was felt early and often. After he picked ball handlers he pushed the rock up the floor for easy buckets. He finished the game as the leading scorer.
RJ Cole Guard (F.A.C.E.S.)- Cole also looked very comfortable on his age level. The lefty got out into transition and scored easy. His outside shot caught fire in his final game. He also was a defensive hound.
Kyle Lofton Guard (F.A.C.E.S.)- Lofton explodes to the hole with a burst of energy. His dribble drives got him to the cup quickly then he used cleverness to get his shot off. He’s a serious threat.
Tyson Etienne Guard (Team Elite)- Tyson launched a couple of high arching treys. I like the way he floats his shot in the lane over shot blockers. This guard has a quick and slick handle.
Jahvon Quinerly Guard (Team Elite)- Jahvon runs the point and has some flair in his game. He has nice size for a guard and handles the pill very effectively. He didn’t have a great game against Playtime but I could see his potential.
Kyle Brown Guard (Team Elite)- I like this youngster’s stroke and feel for the game. His handle is also decent but he’s definitely a shoot first guard. He’s capable of filling up quickly.
Brandon Askew Guard (Gatlin Puma’s)- Askew has the frame of a post player but plays with the quickness of a guard. He loves to shake and bake when finishing off plays. Keep an eye on him.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Basketball Spotlight Flashback: Tyreke Evans Feature
Here's a look at the leading candidate for NBA Rookie Of The Year during his Basketball Spotlight. Evans was a featured on our website on numerous occassions. This is a flashback treat. Stay tune for more features.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
In The Spotlight: Justin Salem
Name: Justin Salem
AAU Team: KYDA
Position: Shooting Guard
Class: 2015
Breakdown: After a good showing at the Grand Finale, Salem really turned things up at the Clash For The Cup. During the finals he hit Team Final up for 17 points and made some clutch plays to take home MVP honors. Justin has established himself as one of the best pure shooters in the region. This kid can flat out shoot the pill.
AAU Team: KYDA
Position: Shooting Guard
Class: 2015
Breakdown: After a good showing at the Grand Finale, Salem really turned things up at the Clash For The Cup. During the finals he hit Team Final up for 17 points and made some clutch plays to take home MVP honors. Justin has established himself as one of the best pure shooters in the region. This kid can flat out shoot the pill.
In The Spotlight: Nassir Barrino
Name: Nassir Barrino
AAU Team: Team Scan
Position: Combo Guard
Class: 2015
Breakdown: Barrino is a natural scorer with the ability to drain the outside shot while putting up huge numbers. Nassir is beginning to become more of a point guard while showing good decisions with the rock. He starred for Team Scan at the Grand Finale and Clash For The Cup.
AAU Team: Team Scan
Position: Combo Guard
Class: 2015
Breakdown: Barrino is a natural scorer with the ability to drain the outside shot while putting up huge numbers. Nassir is beginning to become more of a point guard while showing good decisions with the rock. He starred for Team Scan at the Grand Finale and Clash For The Cup.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
In The Spotlight: Khalif Crawford
Name: Khalif Crawford
AAU Team: NJ Got Game
Position: Combo Guard
Class: 2016
Breakdown: Crawford showed his shooting touch at the Clash For The Cup when he torched Team Scan for 7 treys. This is his first year with this program and seems to be settling in very well. His good play continued as NJ Got Game made it to the finals. Look out for this kid as is game continues to develop.
AAU Team: NJ Got Game
Position: Combo Guard
Class: 2016
Breakdown: Crawford showed his shooting touch at the Clash For The Cup when he torched Team Scan for 7 treys. This is his first year with this program and seems to be settling in very well. His good play continued as NJ Got Game made it to the finals. Look out for this kid as is game continues to develop.
Baby Ballerz Feat. Lucas Hudson
Name: Lucas Hudson
AAU Team: Team Battle
Position: Point Guard
Class: 2017
Breakdown: This Lehigh Valley product first came on the scene at the Gym Rat Midnight Madness and most recently with Team Battle. He’s a floor general in terms of running the team and barking out instructions. During the Grand Finale and Clash For The Cup his stellar play helped Team Battle take both titles.
AAU Team: Team Battle
Position: Point Guard
Class: 2017
Breakdown: This Lehigh Valley product first came on the scene at the Gym Rat Midnight Madness and most recently with Team Battle. He’s a floor general in terms of running the team and barking out instructions. During the Grand Finale and Clash For The Cup his stellar play helped Team Battle take both titles.
Basketball Spotlight Alum Dion Waiters Selected To Jordan Brand Classic
Dion Waiters as an 8th Grader at the Grand Finale!
Basketball Spotlight Alum Dion Waiters has been chosen to play in the Jordan Brand Classic. The Jordan Brand Classic is Nike’s All American Game and will be held April 17th at Madison Square Garden. Waiters participated in the Grand Finale, MDC and Clash For The Cup as a youngster. The above video was at the Grand Finale when he rocked with the Playaz Basketball Club.
Basketball Spotlight Alum Dion Waiters has been chosen to play in the Jordan Brand Classic. The Jordan Brand Classic is Nike’s All American Game and will be held April 17th at Madison Square Garden. Waiters participated in the Grand Finale, MDC and Clash For The Cup as a youngster. The above video was at the Grand Finale when he rocked with the Playaz Basketball Club.
Diary Of A Baller: Jalen "Young One" Henriquez (New Jersey) Entry # 16
Hello Basketball World,
It has been a minute since my last entry, being that AAU has not started yet. I have been doing a lot of the same things like training, school work and going to high school games. Because I’ve been doing these same things, I have given my self-time to space out my entries so I can put weekly input once AAU starts. I have been doing different things to prepare for the start of our long season ahead. I have been working out, to get physically stronger because this year I will be playing 15u. I have also been playing a few middle school games, mostly for fun. I have also been evaluating different high schools as my 8th grade year slowly comes to an end. As far as the decisions go, what I have done is eliminated the schools I will not be attending. I will not be going to boarding school, I am not ready to leave home for the next four years and not see my friends and family. I have also eliminated schools that do not fit my basketball style, some of my AAU teammates have gone to other schools that they aren’t happy with. They can’t wait to get back to AAU and the family we have throughout our team. There is one school that jumps out at me from the coaches, to players, to family base but I promised to look at other schools holding my final decision off until June.
At the beginning of the month I saw Paramus Catholic play against Old Tappan at home, this game was close and went down to the wire. It went into overtime with PC winning by 6. This week I went to the Bergen County Jamboree championship between Paramus Catholic and Bergen Catholic. This was a hard fought battle by both teams and was close until the fourth. Bergen lived and died by their 3, it’s hard to get a win over a fast break centered Paramus Catholic Offense. PC also showed good strength on the defensive end, stopping BC’s penetration forcing them to shoot 3’s. Although PC struggled a bit rebounding, their high-powered offense allowed them to get in the lane, they also knocked down key free throws during crunch time securing their championship. They came out victorious and were crowned Bergen County Champs. Before the game I was able to walk in with Paramus Catholic, which was cool. I want send a special shootout to Coach Barnes, Coach Mack and the whole squad down at PC, they showed a lot of love. For now, I would like concentrate on finishing my 8th grade year strong and preparing for the up-coming AAU season.
Young One Out…It's not hard to make decisions when you know what your values are. ~Roy Disney
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Basketball Spotlight Fan Poll: What's The Biggest Problem Concerning AAU Basketball?
We have received numerous phone calls and emails about numerous problems in the grammar school basketball world. Many people complain about numerous topics including grade exceptions, players switching teams, coach’s using ineligible players and overzealous parents. So we decided to poll you guys to find what you feel are the main issues concerning our basketball culture. The four topics are as follows:
1. Grade Exception Rule
2. Player Movement
3. Ineligible Players
4. Overzealous Parents
Cast Your Vote In The Right Column Under The AGame Apparel Logo!
Class 2014 Player Profile: Jahyde Gardiner
Name: Jahyde Gardiner
AAU Team: Philly Aztecs
Position: Forward
Height: 6’3
Strengths: Gardiner wingspan allows him to be an efficient rebounder, shot blocker and inside scorer. He reminds of Joe Smith during his glory at University of Maryland. Jahyde also experiments with putting the rock on the floor and attacking from the wing. He has a chance to be a special prospect.
Areas Of Improvement: Gardiner will definitely need a few trips to the weight room to get stronger. Also to become a top flight prospect Gardiner will need to continue working on his ball handling and outside shot. He will be a good catch for any high school coach out there.
AAU Team: Philly Aztecs
Position: Forward
Height: 6’3
Strengths: Gardiner wingspan allows him to be an efficient rebounder, shot blocker and inside scorer. He reminds of Joe Smith during his glory at University of Maryland. Jahyde also experiments with putting the rock on the floor and attacking from the wing. He has a chance to be a special prospect.
Areas Of Improvement: Gardiner will definitely need a few trips to the weight room to get stronger. Also to become a top flight prospect Gardiner will need to continue working on his ball handling and outside shot. He will be a good catch for any high school coach out there.
Baby Ballerz Feat. Trevon Duval
Name: Trevon Duval
AAU Team: Philly Triple Threat
Position: Point Guard
Class: 2017
Breakdown: Duval came to the Clash For The Cup with a national rep having rocked with the DC Assault championship team. He proved to that his rep wasn’t just hype. He helped PTT reach the finals including a game winning shot during the semifinals. His handle is advanced for this age and might be the next upcoming player from the First State.
AAU Team: Philly Triple Threat
Position: Point Guard
Class: 2017
Breakdown: Duval came to the Clash For The Cup with a national rep having rocked with the DC Assault championship team. He proved to that his rep wasn’t just hype. He helped PTT reach the finals including a game winning shot during the semifinals. His handle is advanced for this age and might be the next upcoming player from the First State.
In The Spotlight: Jeff Duwhn
Name: Jeff Duwhn
AAU Team: Team Takeover
Position: Combo Guard
Class: 2015
Breakdown: Jeff is a sharpshooter that I saw tickle the twine a lot down at the MIT. He will drain the mid range shot or the trey ball. Duwhn also doesn’t mind taking over the point occasionally. His clutch shooting and scoring prowess helps his squad advance in many tournaments.
AAU Team: Team Takeover
Position: Combo Guard
Class: 2015
Breakdown: Jeff is a sharpshooter that I saw tickle the twine a lot down at the MIT. He will drain the mid range shot or the trey ball. Duwhn also doesn’t mind taking over the point occasionally. His clutch shooting and scoring prowess helps his squad advance in many tournaments.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Basketball Spotlight Headed To Kentucky
This weekend Basketball Spotlight will be headed to Lexington, Kentucky for the Stampede Tournament hosted by Hoop Dreams. This event will feature some of the top players from the Blue Grass State. We will be providing you with in-depth recaps of the top performers and results from this event. This should be a exciting weekend with some new talent featured on this site.
Kentucky Here We Come!
Class 2014 Player Profile: Chance Ellis
Name: Chance Ellis
AAU Team: Starrett City
Position: Forward
Height: 6’3
Strengths: Ellis has good size for his position. He has a long wingspan and a high basketball IQ. He also strokes the rock better than most in the country. Once his feet gets set he usually knocks down the open shot. Finally, I like the way he performs in pressure situations. He wants the rock and will deliver whenever his team needs the win.
Areas Of Improvement: On the next level Ellis will have to develop his foot speed, ball handling and athleticism. Improved foot speed will help him move better on defense and allow him to explode to the basket. In high school defenses will force him to put the rock on the floor so improved ball handling will help him in this development. Finally, improved athleticism will help Ellis rebound and finish off plays on the next level.
AAU Team: Starrett City
Position: Forward
Height: 6’3
Strengths: Ellis has good size for his position. He has a long wingspan and a high basketball IQ. He also strokes the rock better than most in the country. Once his feet gets set he usually knocks down the open shot. Finally, I like the way he performs in pressure situations. He wants the rock and will deliver whenever his team needs the win.
Areas Of Improvement: On the next level Ellis will have to develop his foot speed, ball handling and athleticism. Improved foot speed will help him move better on defense and allow him to explode to the basket. In high school defenses will force him to put the rock on the floor so improved ball handling will help him in this development. Finally, improved athleticism will help Ellis rebound and finish off plays on the next level.
Diary Of A Baller: Anthony "Champ" Mosely (Delaware) Entry #15
What's up world its your boy Champ coming to you with highlights from the last two weeks. The last couple of weeks have been good. In this diary the first thing I would like to do is give a shot out to my mom. “I Love you Mommy you are the best”. My mom is great and I appreciate all that she does for me and my siblings.
The good, I am pleased to announce that we met our goals as a middle school team to have a undefeated regular season 11-0 the first one in our coaches 9 year history at the school. We finished the season with victories over Dover Air Force Middle School and Providence Creek Academy. It makes me feel good to set a goal and achieve it, I am very happy that we accomplished a first in our schools recent history. The coach is happy as well.
We will be playing in a tournament this weekend called the Capital Classic that will give us two more games. We are scheduled to play our nemesis Smyrna Middle (9-2) and when we win we will play in the Championship game against the winner of the other match upp Moyer Academy (10-1) or Seaford Middle (9-2). The much anticipated match up is for us and Moyer to meet in the Championship game pitting Northern DE vs Southern DE. With the season coming to an end I am very pleased with our teams record of 11-0 with a 32 pt margin of victory and I am also pleased with my individual #'s finishing the season with a 23.4 pts per game average to go along with 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block per game.
With the season coming to an end soon I want to take this opportunity to give a shot out to all my teammates Shikeem, John, Lewis, Brandon, Nick, and Joe. It's been a great run guys and I wish all of you the best in your high school basketball careers. With middle school basketball coming to an end it is time for me to start focusing on my high school career and hitting the gym hard so that I can come right in and make a impact as a freshman. Speaking of High School I have decided that I am going to attend The Sanford School in DE. The school is one of the best academically and their philosophy of teaching is great for me. This will help me get prepared for college as the school has a 100% acceptance rate. On top of that I will have the opportunity to play for Coach Waterman who some consider a great coach and who I believe is a great coach and capable of training and teaching me how to be the best player I can be. I will also have the pleasure of practicing against some top D1 prospects Trevor Cooney and Deon Jones which obviously will make me better. Other than that all the snow over the last two weeks was fun at the beginning but got to be too much. I am glad to be back in school and able to get back in the gym. Well that's the life of an 8th grade basketball for the last two weeks check back next week for highlights from the Capital Classic.
Champ Out !!!!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Show Me Invitational Is Here!
3rd Annual “Show Me” Invitational Hosted by F.A.C.E.S.(AAU Sanctioned Event)
11U/5th grade Boys' Basketball Tournament
12U/6th grade Boys’ Basketball Tournament
13U/7th grade Boys’ Basketball Tournament
Site: Hoop Heaven
132 Hopper Ave
Waldwick, NJ 07463
When: February 27-28, 2010
Entry deadline: January 31, 2010
Entry fee: $350 (3 games guaranteed)
Cashier’s Checks/Money orders made payable to F.A.C.E.S.
Coaches and athletes must be current AAU members
Awards: 1st and 2nd individual & team trophies; MVP award
Limited to 8-12 Teams
(First come first served)
Rob Cole
1505 Vauxhall Rd. 1st Flr
Union, NJ 07083
cole_23@verizon.net
www.eteamz.com/faces
13U/7th grade Boys’ Basketball Tournament
Site: Hoop Heaven
132 Hopper Ave
Waldwick, NJ 07463
When: February 27-28, 2010
Entry deadline: January 31, 2010
Entry fee: $350 (3 games guaranteed)
Cashier’s Checks/Money orders made payable to F.A.C.E.S.
Coaches and athletes must be current AAU members
Awards: 1st and 2nd individual & team trophies; MVP award
Limited to 8-12 Teams
(First come first served)
Rob Cole
1505 Vauxhall Rd. 1st Flr
Union, NJ 07083
cole_23@verizon.net
www.eteamz.com/faces
Hoop Group Spring And Summer Showdown List
2010 Spring Showdown Schedule
March 6-7 Spring Showdown I Boys U9-U14 $375
March 20-21 March Madness Showdown Boys U9-U17 $375
April 10-11 April Showdown Boys U14-U17 $375
April 17-18 Spring Showdown II Boys U9-U14 $375
May 1-2 May Showdown Boys U9-U17 $375 Girls U8-U16 $375
May 6-8 Mothers Day Showdown Girls U8-U16 $350
May 15-17 Spring Jam Fest Phase I Boys U16-U17 $450
May 22-23 Spring Jam Fest Phase II Boys U12-U16 $375
June 5-6 Summer Girls Showdown Girls U8-U16 $350
June 12-13 Summer Boys Showdown Boys U9-U14 $375
Contact League Director Joe Stein at 732.897.3196 ext. 34
or Joe@HoopGroup.com with any questions.
1930 Heck Avenue, Bldg #3 732.502.9636 (fax)
Neptune, NJ 07753 www.hoopgroup.com
Friday, February 19, 2010
Aztecs Future Stars Tournament
Basketball Spotlight 14U Top 10: Presented By AGame Apparel
The 14U Division had little movement at the top. A few new teams joined the Top 10 and hopefully they can stay put. Our rankings are based on team performance in quality events and who we feel are the Top 10 teams. Remember this is just our opinion and should be taken as such.
Basketball Spotlight 14U Top 10 Presented By AGame Apparel
1. Starrett City: This squad is the #1 team in the region. They have a loaded roster and should make a deep run at the nationals. They have been crushing the competition.
2. Youth Interlock: YI were hungry to beat SC but things didn’t roll that way. Now they will have to wait until the two collide again to set things straight. They have a couple of huge tournaments and their regional’s approaching.
3. Team Nelson: TN made it to the Final Four of the Clash For The Cup. Now they will be looking forward to the AC Showcase to snatch a Spotlight title. So lookout for them.
4. New Heights: After making to the semifinals of the Clash NH won the MIT which boosted up their stock. They are a rugged bunch capable of knocking anyone off.
5. Team Scan: This bunch recently won the Hoop Group Presidents Weekend tourney. Their guard play is tremendous and they are always ready for a battle.
6. Future Players: This Maryland bunch won the KSK tourney and made it to the finals of the MIT. They will be making their Spotlight debut soon.
7. Team Underrated: This crew is currently in the semifinals at IS8 so they have been getting it in. We have our eye out for them hopefully they will come to America’s Playground.
8. Philly Aztecs: This squad is on the rise after chopping through the comp in Massachusetts. They also will be making their Spotlight debut in Atlantic City.
9. NJ Pirates: This pesky bunch continues to stay afloat in the Top 10. They have some good pieces and will be tested very soon.
10. Team NJ ABC: This squad has been quiet so they might be gearing up for the state tourney. We are looking forward to checking them out.
Basketball Spotlight 13U Top 10: Presented By AGame Apparel
The 13U Division had some major developments and almost had a new #1. This division is probably the most competitive in the country. Here’s our top Top 10 remember our rankings are based on tournament play and who we believe is the best teams. This is just our opinion and should be taken as such.
Basketball Spotlight 13U Top 10 Presented By AGame Apparel
1. Team Final: After falling in the finals of the Clash For The Cup TF rebounded well by winning the MIT. In Maryland they ran through many top teams including Richmond Phenom, Sam Cassell All Stars, Team Takeover and The City. That’s how they held on to the #1 spot.
2. KYDA: KYDA made a strong case for #1 after knocking off TF in the finals of the Clash. They are knocking on the door and will have a few more chances to climb to #1. Hopefully, I will get to see them in some of the upcoming tournaments.
3. The City: A Final Four run at the Clash and a finals march at the MIT helped this squad stay at #3. They have added a couple of pieces as they seem to be gearing up for a nationals run.
4. NJ Got Game: These boys made things interesting at the Clash making to the semifinals. Now things will heat up at their own tournament in the first week of March. They are beginning to put things together.
5. Team Takeover: TT made it to the semifinals of the MIT before losing to #1 Team Final. They also suffered a big loss to #3 The City. I think they will be looking for revenge very soon.
6. Gauchos: The Choz have been on ice since Funsport. They have some serious talent and we look forward to seeing them soon in the Spotlight.
7. Philly Aztecs: This squad is anxious to get into the Top 5. They looked impressive when I watched them at the MIT. They will be making the trip to Atlantic City.
8. Richmond Phenom: Formerly U-Turn this squad was fresh out the gate at the MIT. The rust was apparent at times but we know the winners of last year’s Gold Ball will get it together. Expect them to move up quickly.
9. Virginia Cardinals: This hard nose bunch has been knocking off teams for years. They are scheduled to make their way I-95 soon and we will be waiting.
10. Connecticut Basketball Club: These boys have been making noise up North since the fall. They recently won the Jr. Hoophall Classic 8th Grade Travel Team crown.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Basketball Spotlight 12U Top 10: Presented By AGame Apparel
The 12U Division had some fireworks and some movement. This is shaping up to be one of the most competitive divisions in the region. Here’s our top Top 10 remember our rankings are based on tournament play and who we believe is the best teams. This is just our opinion and should be taken as such.
Basketball Spotlight 12U Top 10 Presented By AGame Apparel
1. Team Battle: After playing up on the Clash For The Cup TB has decided to return to their age group. Things should get interesting at the AC Showcase. The chase is on.
2. New Heights NYC: This is one of the hottest team around. They won the Clash and made it to the finals of the MIT. Some serious tournaments are coming up so they will be tested.
3. DC Assault: The class of PV has been getting it done in league play and will be making the trip up north soon. Their roster possesses some of the top talent in the country.
4. F.A.C.E.S.: This crew made it to the Final Four of the Clash and the MIT. They are one of the scariest teams in the region. Their speed is makes them capable of beating anyone.
5. King Street Kings: They jumped into the Top 5 after winning the MIT and defeating some good teams on the way. They will have a chance to move up after competing in some good upcoming tournaments.
6. NJ Got Game: This squad continues to rise. They made it to the finals of the Clash and will be looking to make a mark in their own tournament coming up.
7. Team Scan: I like this squad because they have talent and bring it hard on the floor. They just made it to the finals of the Hoop Group Presidents Weekend tourney. Keep an eye on them.
8. Sam Cassell All Stars: I definitely want to get another look at this squad. They got off to a bad start at the Clash with a forfeit because of the weather. Things should get interesting when they arrive in AC.
9. MABC: The boys from the North continue to hold on to a Top 10 spot. We hope to see them soon because they are a very entertaining squad.
10. Philly Triple Threat: This hard nose squad made an impression at the Clash For The Cup. They have a solid crew and have a chance of moving up.
Basketball Spotlight Headed To Got Game Tourney
March 5th Thru 7th Basketball Spotlight will be headed to the Got Game Tournament. This event should feature some of the top teams in the region. Basketball Spotlight will be present both days for coverage.
Event: Got Game Tournament
Dates: March 5th Thru 7th
Price: $325 (Multi Team Discount Available)
Place: Sports Zone Fitness Center (Edison, NJ)
Atlantic City Showcase Receiving Early Interest
The Basketball Spotlight Atlantic City Showcase has received early interest. Teams that are interested should register quickly because this event will sell out. Here’s a list of some of the teams that will be headed to America’s Playground April 2nd thru 4th.
Click Here To Register
Deadline March 21, 2010
14U Division
1. Team Final 13's
2. Connecticut Basketball Club
3. Montegomery County Blue
4. Above and Beyond
5. Team NJ ABC
6. Showtime All Stars
7. Philly Aztecs
8. Future Players
9. Boston Spartans
10. Team MVP
11. Westchester Hawks
12. Tri City Warriors
13U Division
1. Gauchos
2. Linden Ballers
3. Philly Aztecs
4. Philly Triple Threat
5. Connecticut Basketball Club
6. Team MVP
7. Showtime All Stars (NC)
8. The City
9. Staten Island Ironmen
10. Maryland Bulls
11. Albany Dream Team
12. Pure Basketball
13. Future Players
14. South Jersey Blitz
15. Montegomery County
16. Absecon Devils
12U Division
1. Team Battle
2. New Heights NYC
3. Philly Triple Threat
4. Playtime Panthers
5. Sam Cassell All Stars
6. CT Elite
7. Staten Island Ironmen
8. Boston Spartans
9. F.A.C.E.S.
10.Future Players
11. Annandale Boys & Girls Club
12. Flash Basketball
13. South County Elite
14. Baltimore Panthers
15. Delaware Finest Stars
16 Team Scan
11U Division
1. Team Battle
2. Playtime Panthers
3. Team Final (Blue)
4. Team NJ ABC
5. Connecticut Basketball Club
6. Philly Triple Threat
7. CT Elite
8. F.A.C.E.S.
9. Long Island Lightning
10. Team MVP
11. Team Nelson
12. World Team Elite
10U Division
1. Maryland Spartans
2. Playtime Panthers
3. Connecticut Basketball Club
4. Riverside Hawks
5. Team NJ ABC
6. Natural Ballers
7. Fastbreak Basketball
8. Long Island Lightning
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Word On The Street: Northeast Represents!
Team Final Wins MIT!
There’s been a lot of tournaments and other things going on in the basketball world since the last “Word On The Street”. We decided to touch a few issues and give you an update on what’s going on!
Northeast Represents At MIT.
One of our goals at Basketball Spotlight was to make the Northeast US basketball more competitive by hosting intense events. It seems to be working as clubs from our region are traveling to other spots and taking home the hardware. This past weekend several squads traveled down to the MIT and made serious noise. New Heights NYC won the 14U division defeating Maryland power Future Players. Team Final defeated another regional squad The City in the 13U Championship. Finally, King Street Kings and New Heights met in the 12U finals with KSK prevailing. We also would like to send shout outs to F.A.C.E.S. 12U and Team Battle 11U for making the Final Four. Good job for all the teams in the region.
Cheating Has To Stop!
Basketball Spotlight believes in fair play and it has come to our attention that some programs are using ineligible players to gain victories. We feel this is unethical and will not be tolerated at any of our events. We will take more time to police programs to make sure everyone plays by the rules. Any team caught cheating at any of our events will be published on our website. Come on coach’s let’s keep things clean because the kids are watching.
NJ Got Game On The Rise!
One of the big surprises in 12U has been the rise of NJ Got Game. The first year program made some noise in the MLK and made it to the finals of the Clash For The Cup. The season is still early but they are making a case for New Team Of The Year in August.
There’s been a lot of tournaments and other things going on in the basketball world since the last “Word On The Street”. We decided to touch a few issues and give you an update on what’s going on!
Northeast Represents At MIT.
One of our goals at Basketball Spotlight was to make the Northeast US basketball more competitive by hosting intense events. It seems to be working as clubs from our region are traveling to other spots and taking home the hardware. This past weekend several squads traveled down to the MIT and made serious noise. New Heights NYC won the 14U division defeating Maryland power Future Players. Team Final defeated another regional squad The City in the 13U Championship. Finally, King Street Kings and New Heights met in the 12U finals with KSK prevailing. We also would like to send shout outs to F.A.C.E.S. 12U and Team Battle 11U for making the Final Four. Good job for all the teams in the region.
Cheating Has To Stop!
Basketball Spotlight believes in fair play and it has come to our attention that some programs are using ineligible players to gain victories. We feel this is unethical and will not be tolerated at any of our events. We will take more time to police programs to make sure everyone plays by the rules. Any team caught cheating at any of our events will be published on our website. Come on coach’s let’s keep things clean because the kids are watching.
NJ Got Game On The Rise!
One of the big surprises in 12U has been the rise of NJ Got Game. The first year program made some noise in the MLK and made it to the finals of the Clash For The Cup. The season is still early but they are making a case for New Team Of The Year in August.
In The Spotlight: Lamar Kimble
Name: Lamar Kimble
AAU Team: Team Final
Position: Combo Guard
Class: 2015
Breakdown: It was another big weekend for this scoring guard. Kimble has established himself as one of the top scorers in the region. His hesitation dribble and crossover seems unstoppable at times. Right now he’s making a run at Player Of The Year honors in August. He’s worth the price of admission.
AAU Team: Team Final
Position: Combo Guard
Class: 2015
Breakdown: It was another big weekend for this scoring guard. Kimble has established himself as one of the top scorers in the region. His hesitation dribble and crossover seems unstoppable at times. Right now he’s making a run at Player Of The Year honors in August. He’s worth the price of admission.
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