Nikki Johnson (Parsippany, NJ)The New Jersey Youth Basketball Showdown took place in Paterson, NJ and Basketball Spotlight was in the building. This first recap is a breakdown of the girls 8th Grade Game.
Score
North Team: 63
South Team: 52
Top Performers
Nikki Johnson Guard (Parsippany, NJ)- Johnson can flat shoot the rock. This young lady was lights out from behind the arc. She nailed over 6 treys and they all were all net. I also like they way she sees the floor and pushes the rock with patience. Keep in mind she is only a 7th Grader. This is a name to remember. This girl has poise.
Kyiarah English Guard (East Orange, NJ)- English was the lady floor general for the North team. She has a good drive and kick game while using her speed to get deep into the lane. Towards the end of the game she showed some of her scoring prowess which helped her team take home the win.
Jasmin Gee Forward (Englewood, NJ)- Gee was tough on the glass and does have the ability to score inside. She used her size to intimidate opponents and hit the glass hard. She’s also only a 7th Grader. Keep an eye on her.
Aliyah Jeune Guard (Mount Holly, NJ)- Jeune has a chance to be someone very special in the game of basketball. She is very long, lanky and can play all five positions on the floor. Her ball handling his very unique for her size (5’11) and when she scores she makes it look very easy. I also must add that she sees floor like a pure point guard. Mark my words this young lady will be someone to watch out for in the future.
Mei-Lyn Bautista Guard (Queens, NY)- The NY guard earned a special invite to this event and didn’t disappoint. She handles the ball primary with her left but is a natural right hand scorer. What separates her from most of her peers is her willingness to deliver the rock to her teammates. She’s one of the best grammar school passers I’ve seen this year male or female. 
Kristin Smith Forward (Hainesport, NJ)- The strong rebounder is very skilled and knows her way from the floor. She has good mid range touch and hustles to grab every rebound and loose ball. Any high school coach would love to have her.
