Marcus Derekson Showed His Versatility
The 14U Orange Division was loaded with talent and here’s our recap of some of the top performers. Next, we will look at some of the players that made their Spotlight debuts and cashed in.
Clash For The Cup Top Performers (Fresh Faces)
#22 Marcus Derekson Forward (Team Takeover)- Well built forward with improving footwork showed the ability to hit the glass hard on both ends of the floor. While he hasn’t established himself offensively at this point, he did finish through contact on more than one occasion and truly seems to enjoy playing the game from the paint. This kid can also shoot the three ball from anywhere.
Franklin Howard Forward (Team Takeover)- In a class that appears very deep with wing players in the early going, add Howard’s name to the list. Oozing with potential, the wiry and bouncy forward defended and rebounded well from his perimeter position the entire weekend. As he develops his mid-range game and adds strength, we may be hearing a lot more about this young man in the future.
Devearl Ramsey Guard (Cali Style) - Explosive guard with the fastest speed on the team. This is the top 7th grader is one of the best in his class and he has a Dwayne Wade style when attacking. His blow past ability and pull up jumpers from 12-18 feet and impossible to stop and his defense is top tier. You will definitely hear more about this top talent.
Sheldon Croney (#6) - Top tier defender who plays big and is extremely strong on the glass. His numerous well timed offensive rebounds and strong defense is the glue that every team needs. Mr. Blue Collar; hard worker with a decent shooting touch.
Vaughn Jenkins Forward (Team Rebels)- Jenkins slashing style puts tremendous pressure on the defense. His length allows him to pull up before entering shot blocking territory. He has the true making of a legit wing player on the high school level. We will be keeping a close eye on this kid.
Justin Roberts Guard (Team Scan)- Roberts found the hot hand this weekend. He tickled the twine from three point range early and often. He nailed 7 treys combined in their first two outings. His stroke will be crucial to stretch the defense give their point guards room to operate.
Taron Oliver Center (Team Takeover)– One of the biggest bodies on the East Coast in the class of 2015, Oliver should anchor the post for Team Takeover for many years to come. He doesn’t back down to anyone and put plenty of opponents on their backs throughout the weekend who challenged him in the post. He demonstrated above average hands and looks to be developing the ability to pass out of the post.
Walter “Randall” Brody Guard (Team Takeover) – Yet another long and rangy athlete in the Team Takeover stable, Brody played with confidence and showed the aggressiveness on both ends of the floor that his club has been known for. He did knock down some shots, but looked as if he prefers to finish closer to the rim at this point in his development. He’s an improved perimeter jumper away from being a go-to scorer for his squad.