Force One 6th Graders Getting Ready

Player Of The Week: Temple Gibbs (Team Scan)

This week’s Player of the Week goes to Temple Gibbs. Temple led Team Scan with a game-high 19pts and several key steals in a 58-31 victory over Kings St. Kings 8th grade squad. This was the first time these two teams met and Temple played like the best player on the floor in a game full of talent. At one point, he shut down a fastbreak on the defensive end pinning a shot to the backboard then showing Tiger Woods style emotion after being called for the foul. Following the footsteps of brothers Ashton and Sterling, Temple has shown his all-around game and impressed everyone in the gym.

Diary Of A Baller: Tyus "Kid Mamba" Battle (Edison, NJ) Entry #9

What’s up basketball world, it has been a long week for me personally.

Monday, I went to the gym to lift. While lifting my dad and I talked about what I can work on to help me get better. He said I really need to work on my defense, speed, strength, and mental toughness. Even though I have improved on these four things I still need to get much better at them. So now that is my goal for the year - to improve these areas before I graduate from middle school.

When I went to school the next day I received a 90 on my social studies quiz, which is good. When I got home I had a lot of homework to do so I didn’t get to go to the gym or anything, but I did watch the St. Patrick’s movie, “A Prayer for a Perfect Season”. I liked how you were able to really get to know the players and coaches on the team. I never realized how much they had to go through to get as far as they did.

Wednesday, I went to the gym at HoopsAmerica. I wasn’t able to get a really good workout because I could only stay for 20 minutes because I had to go to school practice. Within that 20-minutes I was able to get in most of my ball handling drills. At school practice coach Brian put in a few simple sets and defenses. We then worked on individual moves to the basket and we ended it off by playing 5 on 5, which we do every practice.

Friday, I had to take pictures for our yearbook so the night before I had to go out and find a dress shirt because all 8th graders had to wear a white dress shirt and a tie. When I got home I went straight to the PS3 to play Battlefield 3, which I have been playing a lot since I got it last week.

Saturday, I was supposed to go to a haunted hayride with some kids from my school, but since it started snowing we didn’t go. My mom then picked me up since my dad had to go to New Orleans for a business trip. I haven’t seen my mom in a while so my brother and I were excited to go to her house. She brought home a seafood platter from the restaurant where she works. We ate and then fell asleep while watching a few horror movies on AMC.

Monday is Halloween so I will make sure I tell you all about it. This is Tyus Battle signing off.

Peace.

Youngsters Shine At Pangos

NyRhique Smith and Devonte Green

Top 8th Graders NyRhique Smith and Devonte Green made the trip to the Pangos East Frosh/Soph Camp and didn’t disappoint. Both youngsters made it to the Top 60 All Star Game which was a great accomplishment since the camp is for high school players. We will keep you posted on the progress of these youngsters.

Basketball Spotlight Launches Youtube Collection

We have collected footage from all our former events and combined it with highlights from all the top young ballers to bring you the Basketball Spotlight Youtube Collection. To have your video added to our collection please email me the link to basketballspotlight@hotmail.com.

Spotlight Youtube Collection

St. Ants Vs. St. Pats: Which Movie Is Better? Cast Your Vote!

Perhaps Bobby Hurley Sr. and Kevin Boyle Sr. Last Pregame talk as rivals.

Since the on court rivalry between St. Patrick’s and St. Anthony will never be the same we decided to pit them head to head one last time. Both schools have released documentary/movies and we would like you to choose which movie you enjoyed more. After voting we encourage you to give your reasoning on the message board . You can vote in the right column at the top of the site.

St. Anthony “Street Stops Here”


St. Patricks “Prayer For A Perfect Season”

Basketball Spotlight Returns To CT Adidas Jr. Phenom Camp

Basketball Spotlight will be headed back to New Haven for the Adidas Phenom Exposure Camp. Last year this event produced some of the top talent in the New England region and Metropolitan area. We will definitely be in the building to give you exclusive recaps and interviews.

Click Here To Register

ADIDAS PHENOM EXPOSURE CAMP
November 5-6, 2011
New Haven Field House
New Haven, CT
Boys Grades 2-12
www.EliteSportsEvents.com

One On One Featuring: Ty-Shon Alexander (Concord, NC)

Ty-Shon Alexander is one of the most versatile players in America. The lanky guard impacts the game in several ways. During the season he helped the CB Spiders win numerous championships and finish #10 in America. We got a chance to talk to this lad and here’s his one on one.

BS: How was your season playing with the CB Spiders?
TA: My season with the spiders was very well.

BS: What was your best moment of the season?
TA: 2010 Nationals in Hampton, VA when we came in 10th place overall.

BS: What is your dream college?
TA: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill or University of Kansas.

BS: What do you enjoy the most about AAU Basketball?
TA: I get to travel and see and play different teams in different states.

BS: What’s the strongest aspect of your game?
TA: Being a team player and know how to see the whole floor.

BS: What part of your game needs the most work?
TA: My ball handling.

BS: What player do you pattern your game after?
TA: Ray Allen.

BS: What are your career goals?
TA: I plan on going to college and major in Criminal Justice and become a FBI Agent or play basketball in the NBA.

BS: Give me one word to describe Basketball Spotlight.
TA: Cool.

Tip Off Classic Deadline Is November 15th

The Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic formerly the Grand Finale will take place December 3rd and 4th. This event will be Basketball Spotlight’s first leg to the Grand Finale formerly Summer Slam. This event has already garnered attention from some of the top teams in the country. Don’t miss your chance to start your season against the top competition while gaining the best exposure. Space is limited for this event. Check out action from last year's event.

Click Here For Single Team Registration

Click Here For Multi-Team Discount Registration

Super Showcase Profile: Najohn Dickerson (Trenton, NJ)

Name: Najohn Dickerson

Hometown: Trenton, NJ

Position: Forward

Class: 2017

Showcase Report: Najohn is just beginning his basketball journey but he is projected to be about 6’8 so the potential is there. Like most young post players this youngster is still developing but most coaches will want his services in years to come. This youngster is committed to getting better.

Word On The Street: Free Agency In Full Effect

A lot of things are going on around the AAU world right now. So we decided to hit a couple of our sources and bring you another “Word On The Street”. Remember most of this information is from reliable sources including those directly involved.

Is Team Takeover Really Taking Over?

Team Takeover 12U finished #5 in the country and has reloaded in a big way. They acquired Chris Lykes who reclassified into the Class of 2017 but also snatched up former Mr. Memorial Day Andre Boykin and Raine McKeithon from Maryland Panthers. When you throw in top point guard Aaron Thompson and rising stud DJ Mitchell things could get scary.

Where will Nowell land?

One of the big off season stories is the movement of Markquis Nowell. After leaving the Gauchos the high scoring guard was rumored to have been heading to Riverside then suddenly newly formed Team IZOD 12U. Is he really coming over to NJ? We will keep you posted as this story develops.


JJ Watson on The Move?

After spending one successful year with the CB Spiders it seems that combo guard JJ Watson has decided to seek another squad. Rumors have him looking to hook up with NC Rising Prospects or newly formed Team Felton 13U. He would be a huge pickup for either squad because this kid can go.

Diary Of A Baller: Tyus "Kid Mamba" Battle (Edison, NJ) Entry #8

Hello basketball world. Monday I had way too much homework for hoops or other activities, therefore Tuesday at the JCC was the beginning of my basketball week. The kids at the JCC are looking better and better so my dad let everyone get into some 5 on 5 full-court games, which was a lot of fun. Khalif and I played on separate teams and my dad refereed as my team went on to get a 1-point victory in the last second. Khalif was really mad because all of us Battles hate to lose at anything.

Wednesday, I went to workout at Hoops America. I didn’t stay long because I went to my first school practice at 7pm. When I arrived at my school practice we did a little ball handling. Idris Joyner’s father was running the practice and he did a great job. After the ball handling we split into two groups, one for post moves and one for moves to the basket. We went over some basics like drop steps and jump hooks. After the skill work we played some full court. All I was really doing was fooling around with Idris and some of my teammates and at the end of practice I went to steal the ball from Idris and he crossed me over. Of course everyone went crazy, LOL. After that Idris just did not stop talking about it and neither did my brother. As my father always says, “let your game do your talking, son” Idris and Khalif know my game spoke real loud during the 5 on 5. He did get me with that one sneaky crossover dribble, though.

Thursday, I went to The Club at Woodbridge to workout with 3 kids from New York. One of the kids was my age and 6’10 so I was really looking forward to seeing him in person. The kid just started playing basketball so he is putting in a lot of work to develop his game. I think he can be very good if he continues to put in the work in the gym. One of the great things about being my father’s son is that I get to meet some really unbelievable people from different places. I believe this kid’s name was Emanuel and he was from Nigeria.

Friday, I got an 83 on my science test. I did all right considering that the test was very difficult. My mom and dad were not that excited though. “You killed your A average”, my dad said when I told him. I will definitely do better on my next science test. When I got home I was supposed to have team practice with Final, but my dad called it off. So all I really did was sit back, relax, and play MW2 with a few kids from my school on line.

Saturday, I woke up at 6am to get ready for my tournament. Our first game was at 10:35am and we were playing up to 16u. The game was close throughout, and went into double overtime, but fortunately I hit a pull up with 2 seconds left to put us up by one to win the game. I hit a buzzer beater last season in the same gym. The second game we lost by 1 to a team we should have never lost to. Our transition defense was bad and we were not executing well. I missed a buzzer shot with from 25 feet as time ran out on us. Our last game we blew the team out by 30 or 40. We played well for our first tournament. We still need to work on a lot of things but overall I think we will be very good.

I went to my mom’s house after the game. I was trying to go see Paranormal Activity 3with my uncle but he got sick. So instead I just watched a few horror movies. Next week I have a few quizzes and tests so I will make sure to tell you how I do.

Peace
Tyus Battle

Curt Jones Class of 2016 (Richmond, VA)

Team Final Holding Tryouts

TEAM FINAL Boys basketball team will be hosting tryouts


DATE: Saturday November 5, 2011

For Grades: 6th / 7th Grade Boys

Time : 10am-12pm

Location: Life Center Academy
2045 Columbus Road ,Burlington NJ

Cost: $20

For more information Contact us at:

609-509-1859 or Email at TeamFinalAAU@yahoo.com


You can also visit our website:

WWW.TeamFinalAAU.net or www.TeamFinalAAU.com

Prayer For A Perfect Season Film Review

After watching “Prayer For A Perfect Season” I must say that HBO did an excellent job showing St. Patricks quest for a national championship. The film is built around their winner take all game against St. Anthony.

This movie depicts the adversity that the players and coaches went through while trying to get the ultimate prize. In the past St. Patricks has worn the villain hat but I think this picture will change the minds of many of those naysayers. “Prayer For A Perfect” season left no stone unturned.

I would like to personally thank HBO for sending me an advanced copy and encourage all you guys to tune in October 25th on HBO at 9:00 PM for the world premiere. Get your popcorn ready because it’s definitely worth the watch.

Introducing Christian Martinez (San Antonio, TX)

DC Assault Takes HOF 15U Crown

DC Assault Racking Up Titles

DC Assault continues to show early dominance by winning the Hall Of Fame, Philadelphia Classic 15U Championship. Here’s a breakdown of their road to the crown.

Pool Play
DCA 60 East Coast Elite 15U 19
DCA 71 PW Elite 15U 40

Semi-Final
DCA 61 Jersey Shore Warriors 15U 49

Championship
DCA 63 Keystone Blazers 15U 54

Jamar Watson
Jamir Moultrie
Mickey Bell
Anthony Cowan
Blake Francis
Sam Green
Ako Adams
Sean Strittmatter
Reggie Gardner
Alani Moore
Joe Hampton
Arehon Harrison

Coach: Zach Suber
Asst. Coach: Reggie Gardner

Tip Off Classic Almost Here

The Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic formerly the Grand Finale will take place December 3rd and 4th. This event will be Basketball Spotlight’s first leg to the Grand Finale formerly Summer Slam. This event has already garnered attention from some of the top teams in the country. Don’t miss your chance to start your season against the top competition while gaining the best exposure. Space is limited for this event. Check out action from last year's event.

Click Here To Register Online

Double Tree To Host Tip Off Classic

The Doubletree Hotel in Tinton Falls, NJ will be the official host for the Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic. The hotel sits only 5 minutes from Hoop Group Headquarters and includes a continental breakfast. Click the link below to register for rooms.

Hotel Registration

Team Scan Ready To Go Again!

Team Scan Is Back And Strong As Ever!

The Mighty Team Scan is off and running after winning two fall tournaments. They won the Adidas Challenge in Connecticut and the Basketbull Columbus Day Classic. Congrats to Team Scan’s coaches and players for their early success. They are gearing up for the Tip Off Classic.

Diary Of A Baller: Tyus "Kid Mamba" Battle (Edison, NJ) Entry#7

What’s up basketball world, I am here again to tell you about my week.

Monday I did not have school, therefore my brother and I had a day to hang out at home, play PlayStation 3 and watch a little television. I also started a new book titled “Ashes.” When my dad came home from work, we went outside and ran the hills in Roosevelt Park for 25 minutes. We also dribbled 2 balls up and down the hills of the park for 30 minutes, which was very hard. I never realized how difficult it is to dribble 2 balls on grass and dirt up-hill until my dad had us try it. We finished our workout by doing vertical leap drills and more ball handling. I really love working out with my dad and brother!

Tuesday, we had the basketball clinic at the JCC and it was cool. The kids are really beginning to understand how working hard can be fun. When my dad was managing the last hour of the clinic with my step mom and brother. I worked out doing shooting drills and ball handling with a 7lbs ball and regular ball with my teammate and friend Jason Graham. We also did power jump drills 15 minutes to end the work out. On our ride home, we had lots of fun, my dad can be a lot of fun when he is in a good mode. You see, he was happy because he beat me in a run the length of a basketball court. He a barely beat me but he bragged all the way home. He was even singing songs on the radio, changing words describing how he smoked me. My dad is really fast, and it made him feel good, so I don’t mind. I will beat him next time for sure.

Wednesday, I stayed home and hit the books because I had several quizzes and test to end the week. Fortunately I have been doing really well in school so far, all A’s, although I received a 79 on a notebook test in Science because I was out for a class and forgot to make up the work. My dad was not happy when he found out and I was not either.

Thursday, I had a test and I got an A. After 2 hours of homework after school, I went to the gym with my dad at 8 and work on my pull up jump shot. We did a lot of drills with the heavy ball and worked on quick hit dribble moves and combination moves for 2 hours. I had a great work out. My dad said it was the best effort he has seen from me over the past few months and I felt good.

Friday, school was good. We had Mass and classes went smooth. After school I took a nap for an hour before my step-mom woke me up for Team Final practice. Practice went well and the team is coming together. After practice my dad, brother and I drove to King of Prussia, PA for a tournament I had on Saturday and Sunday at Competitive Edge. I played very well overall, playing 17U but unfortunately we lost all 3 games. I should say that we had 3 starters missing because of official visits to college. I scored the ball well and even dominated for periods of times, we just were way too small to rebound with the size of some of the teams.

It’s already Sunday night 10 PM and I need to read for school, shower and get to bed. Until next week basketball world.

Peace!
Tyus Battle

Baby Baller Super Showcase Profile: Alex Bajohr (Freehold, NJ)

Name: Alex Bajohr

Hometown: Freehold, NJ

Position: Point Guard

Class: 2018

Showcase Report: Once Alex got used to the speed of this event he settled down. He has a flashy handle and isn’t afraid to force the action. He saw the floor very well while driving down the teeth of the defense. This kid has a very high basketball IQ.

St. Patrick's Prayer For A Perfect Season Previews

John Lucas Camp Recap: Class 2016 Part 2

Harry Giles (Winston Salem, NC)

Even though these kids were pitted against players in the 2013, 2014 and 2015 classes they more than held their own. The 2016 class definitely has some special talent and I look forward to seeing these kids develop.

Harry Giles 6'6 from Winston Salem, NC is still very raw in his skill set but his competitive fire is second to none in his class. He, like Turner, competed against a much older more experienced 6'7 sophomore LaRon Black on a number of occasions, looking like a sophomore at times with his aggressive plays around the hoop and with his hustle defensively against Black. When Giles improves his footwork around the basket on his post moves he will be fun to watch. Playing against older and bigger players will have to be a priority for him over the next year.

Derryck Thornton 6'0 from Hidden Hills, CA. Derryck heads the long list of elite PG's in California in this class. He plays with the flair of a upperclassman and isn't intimidated by size or age. Not to put pressure on him but he typifies the word 'Phenom'.

Caleb Swanigan 6'5 from Fort Wayne, IN is the younger brother of one time high major recruit 6'10 Carl Swanigan who was a Zack Randolph clone with nice touch from outside. Caleb will be no different, scouts who saw Caleb could not believe the similarities in their faces and mannerisms, and skill level. Swanigan is still feeling out his new body which has lost 60 lbs since last May. If that work ethic is consistent over the next 2-3 years his class is going to be in trouble trying to match up with Baby Z-BO!

Kylia Sykes 6'3 from Goldsboro, NC was a live wire going to the glass for put backs and running the floor for lay ups in transition. One of those young athletes you can see stretching out to 6-7 later in high school.

Diondre Overton 6'2 from Wilson, NC was a scoring machine for his team and made plays for others as well. Not someone I saw a lot of but when I did he was scoring that ball.

D.P. Burton 6'8 from Milwaukee, WI long, lean and athletic big who plays tough and doesn't try and float on the perimeter. He goes to work inside and is very aggressive pursuing rebounds and lose balls.

Adrian Moore 6'2 from Conway, AR was very impressive as he competed and was the most productive and consistent player on his team which included freshmen and sophomores. Moore is an aggressive defender and wiry athlete, who can explode on the break for dunks. Shut it down late due to cramps.

7th Grade

Cody Riley 6'8 from Hidden Hills, CA. Cody may have been the only 7th grader in the camp, but he definitely showed he belong. His skill level is well beyond his age and he doesn't back down to bigger and stronger kids. All I can say is the young fella competes. His upside is tremendous.

This report was written by Darnell 'Tate' Johnson of hoopsreport.com and Hoopscouting. He has over 10 years of scouting high school and middle school basketball.

John Lucas Camp Recap: Class of 2016 Part 1

Thon Maker Played Huge

Even though these kids were pitted against players in the 2013, 2014 and 2015 classes they more than held their own. The 2016 class definitely has some special talent and I look forward to seeing these kids develop.

Thon Maker 7'0 from Australia played with maturity beyond his years and was not as easily pushed around inside as his frame would suggest. His shot blocking ability sets himself aside from his class with timing and length that guys in his class simply do not have. I liken him to a tougher harder playing Isaiah Austin at this stage. He brings energy to the game and hates to loses. One to keep an eye for the future.

Khalea Turner 6'8 from New Orleans, LA was the talk of the camp while battling with 6'10 sophomore Dakari Johnson who regularly had his way with the young fella but there was no backing down from Turner. His hands and touch around the basket were on display, and his post passing was up there with the best in the camp. In terms of guys getting the most out of the camp Turner surely had to come away knowing where he wants to go that his conditioning and competing hard on every play must be improved.

Trevor Stanback 6'10 from Hidden Hills, CA is a very intriguing prospect who you know right away his best basketball is way down the line. He is still growing into his body but has soft hands and a good work ethic as he was noticeably very attentive in stations. He will be a face up big man with a soft touch down the road and he defensively already knows how to change the game on the defensive end.

V.J. King 6'4 from Charlotte, NC was hard to find because we thought he was a junior at first couple looks. He is a well built athlete who has a strong handle and looks like he belongs out there with older players. Had a couple of nice dunks on the break, goes to the offensive glass and played well defensively which not all guards do when playing older players.

Devearl Ramsey 6'0 from Hidden Hills, CA . Devearl had me having flashbacks of the great Pearl Washington in his prime. He was strong with the ball and loved to attack the basket. If you played him to close he will embarrass you.

Ryan Murphy 6'0 from Los Angeles, CA. Ryan really surprised me. He came in camp and did more than just competed, he stood out. He has a great IQ for the game and is as tough as nails. He comes from the Dreamvision program in California and reminds me a lot of their 17u starting PG Joe Rahon. Ryan has the maturity to be a 4 year starter in high school.

Michael Corchiani 5'7 from New Orleans, LA is a heady point guard who knows when to make the right pass, and can knock down the open jumper.

This report was written by Darnell 'Tate' Johnson of hoopsreport.com and Hoopscouting. He has over 10 years of scouting high school and middle school basketball.

Tip Off Classic Gets Early Interest!

The Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic will take place December 3rd and 4th. This event will be the official start of our Road To The Grand Finale. Some top teams already have shown interest.

14U
1. DC Assault
2. Team Rebels
3. Gauchos
4. Team Scan
5. F.A.C.E.S.
6. New Renaissance Basketball Club
7. CT Elite
8. Mass Shooting Stars
9. Philly Triple Threat
10. VBC
11. Severn Elite
12. Milbank
13. Playaz
14. On Point Cyclones
15. Jersey City Boys Club
16. Mid Jersey Heat
17. Boston Titans
18. ETU Warriors
19. St. Michaels
20. Showtime All Stars
21. New Heights NYC
22. Team Elite/Owens
23. Connecticut Select
24. KSK

13U
1. Team IZOD
2. CBC
3. Team Final
4. Team Rebels
5. KSK
6. Albany Dream Team
7. Jersey City Boys Club
8. Swish City Magic (NC)
9. Juice All Stars
10. New Renaissance Basketball Club
11. Milbank
12. On Point Cyclones
13. St. Michaels
14. East Coast Elite (CT)
15. MABC
16. New Heights NYC

12U
1. Riverside Hawks
2. Natural Ballers
3. Force One Basketball
4. East Coast Elite
5. New Renaissance Basketball Club
6. Team Rebels
7. Team Final
8. KSK
9. NJ ABC
10. NC Runing Rebels
11. Playtime Panthers
12. Swish City Magic (NC)
13. Team IZOD
14. DC Assault (Perry)
15. NJ Shore Shots
16. PWC

11U
1. Team Nelson
2. CJ Hawks
3. Team Rebels
4. Playtime
5. Run and Gun Elite
6. Severn Elite
7. T-One Ballerz
8. NJABC
9. New Heights
10. On Point Cyclones
11. St. Michaels
12. New Renaissance Basketball

Super Showcase Highlights: Class of 2017 Putting In Work

The Class of 2017 had some great battles at the Super Showcase. These young ballers really got after it. Check out this video and you can see how intense this event was. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this action next summer.

Big Red Machine Hosting Tryouts

Event: Team IZOD Tryouts

Date: October 15, 2011

Cost: $25.00

Place: Sports U Complex (22 Madison Road, Fairfield, NJ)

Time: 11U-12U (1:00 PM-3:00 PM), 13U-14U (3:00 PM-5:00 PM)

Diary Of A Baller: Tyus "Kid Mamba" Battle (Edison, NJ) Entry #6

What’s up basketball world? I had a very full week overall filled with basketball and a lot of other things. First off, I am finishing a good book called Witch & Wizard. I love to read, and I especially like to read scary books.

On Monday my step-mom and I went to yoga, but the class was too full, so we went to the gym for some intensive training instead. We worked hard on my flexibility for about 30 minutes and then cardio with a medicine ball. We did a ton of walking lunges with weights and continuous box jumps and shuttle runs. We finished with pulls ups and dips to exhaustion. The next day my legs were really sore which means I put in some hard work.

On Tuesday our Battlebasketball clinic at the Scotch Plains JCC went really well. The kids are getting better and better. After the clinic I worked out with Temple Gibbs from SCAN. We got in an hour workout. We did some of the drills that I learned at the Micah Lancaster camp last week. First we worked on getting our shot up quicker, then we did finishes and moves to the basket.

Wednesday I went to workout with Coach Rich at Hoops America. I didn’t play very well so my dad got on me. He told me that I wasn’t in help defense and I was not playing aggressive enough. Coach Rich said that I need to improve on a few things and that it’s only up to improve my weaknesses.

Friday we had team practice again. It was a very competitive and we did A LOT of running. Unfortunately, I had a bad practice, so my coach/dad was not happy. He really hates when kids don’t work as hard as they can on every play. H really gets on you and he has been on me all weekend. My dad will not stop until he gets 100% effort. I will do better next week, for sure.

On Saturday we went to NYC and participated in a fundraising basketball clinic in Harlem with Hollis Copeland and Herb Williams of the NY Knicks. Hoops for Haiti is the idea of Helen Mashburn, mother of Jamal Mashburn. Jamal played for the Mavericks, the Heat and the Hornets. The idea of the event was to raise money for the people of Haiti who were devastated by the earthquake a year ago when a lot of innocent people where killed and displaced from their homes. We had a lot of fun, while raising a lot of money for a great cause.

Until next week…Peace.

Basketball Spotlight Feature: Something About Sanders

J.P. Sanders (Team Final)

Last season one of the biggest surprises was the emergence of John Paul Sanders of Team Final. Sanders had an impressive regular season, AAU Nationals showing and Super Showcase. His coach Orlando Hildago loves his passion for the game and versatility; “J.P. is one of the hardest working players I’ve ever coached. He is a tough defender and can play any position I need him to play. Generally he likes guarding the best player from the other team” said Hildago.

Currently a 7th Grader Sanders has a long way to go before becoming a finished product but his coach thinks he’s on the right path. “Right now he needs to improve his ball handling, mid range game and 3 point shot. He’s currently a matchup problem for anyone. He’s too big for guards and too swift for forwards. He has tall genes in his family therefore when he grows he could be a nightmare for many teams now and the next level” Coach Orlando finished. Basketball Spotlight will be watching Sanders and his Team Final teammates closely this season.

Baby Baller Super Showcase Profile: DJ Jackson (Hartford, CT)

Name: DJ Jackson

Hometown: Hartford, CT

Position: Combo Guard

Class: 2019

Showcase Report: Jackson came in with a heavy scoring rep and didn’t disappoint. He thrives in attack mode with a wet jumper and surprising athleticism. This was a big time atmosphere and DJ stood his ground. This is a very tough kid with a bright future.

Video Profile: Lamar Stevens (Philadelphia, PA)

Name: Lamar Stevens

Hometown: Philadelphia, PA

Position: Forward

Class: 2016

Breakdown: Lamar’s length and his ability to create plays makes him a scary prospect down the road. He rebounds outside his area and will reject shots from penetrating guards. This kid is just scratching the surface in terms of his potential. Don’t be surprised if this prospect shoots off the charts in the next few years. He’s one of the top prospects in Philly for the Class of 2016.

Video Profile: Nick Honor (Orlando, FL)

Name: Nick Honor

Hometown: Orlando, FL

Position: Point Guard

Class: 2018

Breakdown: The University of Florida has a guard named Erving Walker that I covered coming up and now Orlando has a young guard that reminds me of him. Nick Honor from Orlando, Florida has serious range and a legit floater with either hand. Honor fills up the stat sheet quickly and can drain shots from the cheap seats like Walker.

Basketball Spotlight Feature: Charles In Charge!

Ismail Charles (Hartford, CT)

Ismail Charles has become one of the most dominant inside players in the region. CBC’s coach Reggie Hatchett has seen his game progress first hand,”Ismail’s ability to get better is what impresses me the most. He has improved faster than any other player I’ve been around” Hatchett said. Even though he has achieved some early success Coach Hatchett makes sure he keeps this youngster grounded and focused on improving. “He needs to improve his shooting and though he has worked on his ball handling he needs to make it tighter before entering high school”.

The state of Connecticut has been known to produce some big time players and Hatchett believes Charles has a chance to be among the best. “I think he will be at least 6’8 and a great athlete. He already dunks the ball consistently and should be a high major prospect if he continues to work hard. His ceiling is very high and the sky is the limit with him” Hatchett finished. Basketball Spotlight looks forward to watching Charles in action with CBC this season. We will keep you posted on his progress.

Super Showcase Profile: Tymir Watson (Philadelphia, PA)

Name: Tymir Watson

Hometown: Philadelphia, PA

Position: Shooting Guard

Class: 2016

Breakdown: Watson was a late entry into the Super Showcase but the Philly made the most of his afternoon. He used his strong frame and ability to shoot off the bounce to make an impact on this event. He was difficult to keep out the lane and has legit range for a perimeter prospect. It looks like Philly has another tough guard on the horizon.

In The Spotlight: Smith Leads LD Rebels To Title

Name: NyRhique Smith

AAU Team: LD Rebels

Position: Combo Guard

Class: 2016

Event Performance: Smith tallied 25 point, 12 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the LD Rebels to a victory over the X-men to win the Lefrak Tournament Championship. The MVP got praise from his coach and NYC legend Lloyd Daniels. “NyRhique had tremendous stats but what impressed me the most was that he only had two turnovers. I preached to him that it was important to take care of the ball and he listened well” said Daniels.

Video Profile: Chris Lykes (Mitchellville, MD)

Name: Chris Lykes

Hometown: Mitchellville, MD

Position: Point Guard

Class: 2017

Breakdown: Lykes was tough to guard at the Super Showcase while breaking down defenders all afternoon. His change of direction was spectacular and he was able to finish among the
trees inside. Check out his footage from this event.

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Basketball Spotlight Super 75 National Rankings (Class of 2015)

Perry Dozier Tops Our List

The Basketball Spotlight Class of 2015 Rankings are below. This is our first national ranking and we have been tracking most of these kids since 12U Nationals. We have seen many of these players play in person in Spotlight events and around the country. Please remember this is just our opinion and should be taken as such. All of the players have appeared on our website one time or another through my recaps or those of other writers. Enjoy and let the debates begin. (Click on players in red for highlights)

Basketball Spotlight Super 75 National Ranking (Class of 2015)

1. Perry Dozier 6’2 Guard (Columbia, SC)
2. Karl Towns 6’10 Forward (Piscataway, NJ)
3. Malik Newman 6’4 Guard (Jackson, MS)
4. Isaiah Briscoe 6’2 Guard (Union, NJ)
5. Tyler Dorsey 6’4 Guard (Pasadena, CA)
6. Horace Spencer 6’8 Forward (Southampton, PA)
7. Mikey Mitchell 6’6 Forward (Plano, TX)
8. Danjel Purefoy 6’6 Guard (Bibb County, AL)
9. Kejuan Johnson 6’7 Forward (Atlanta, Georgia)
10. Stephen Zimmerman 6’10 Forward (Las Vegas, NV)
11. Justin Jackson 6’7 Forward (Toronto, ON)
12. Diamond Stone 6’8 Forward (Milwaukee, WI)
13. Austin Grandstaff 6’3 Guard (Rowlett, TX)
14. Joshua Jackson 6’5 Guard (Southfield, MI)
15. Jared Reuter 6’8 Forward (Rochester, MA)
16. Daniel Giddens 6’7 Forward (Atlanta, GA)
17. Jamar Ergas 6’3 Guard (Scarborough, ON)
18. Kevaughn Allen 6’3 Guard (Little Rock, ARK)
19. Bobby Martin 6’6 Forward (Newton Square, PA)
20. Allonzo Trier 6’0 Guard (Oklahoma City, OK)
21. Leroy Butts 6’7 Forward (Clinton, MD)
22. Marcus Lovett 5’10 Guard (Altadena, CA)
23. Chris Baldwin 6’6 Forward (Springfield, MA)
24. Nassir Barrino 6’0 Guard (Newark, NJ)
25. Franklin Howard 6’3 Guard (District Heights, MD)
26. Justin Jenifer 5’9 Guard (Woodlawn, MD)
27. Malachi Richardson 6’5 Guard (Hamilton, NJ)
28. Tyler Jackson 6’9 Forward (Naperville, IL)
29. Bryant Crawford 6’2 Guard (Silver Springs, MD)
30. Donovan Mitchell 6’2 Guard (Elmford, NY)
31. Sam Foreman 5’9 Guard (Philadelphia, PA)
32. Jesse Pistokache 6’2 Guard (McAllen, TX)
33. AJ Harris 5’8 Guard (Dayton, OH)
34. Traci Carter 6’1 Guard (Philadelphia, PA)
35. Keenan Lawson 6’4 Guard (Memphis, TN)
36. Isaiah Still 6’4 Guard (Rahway, NJ)
37. Vaughn Jenkins 6’4 Forward (Wilmington, DE)
38. Aaron McClain 6’6 Forward (Hudson, MA)
39. Lamar Kimble 5’10 Guard (Philadelphia, PA)
40. Mason Shepard 6’6 Forward (Santa Monica, CA)
41. King McClure 6’3 Guard (Dallas, TX)
42. Kamar McKnight 6’3 Guard (Toronto, ON)
43. Marcus Floyd 5’8 Guard (Wilmington, DE)
44. Isaiah Martin 6’7 Forward (Silver Springs, MD)
45. Chris Atkinson 5’8 Guard (West Hempstead, NY)
46. Isaiah Buck-Lowan 6’4 Forward (Springfield, VA)
47. Malik Ellison 6’0 Guard (Voorhees, NJ)
48. Marcel Pettaway 6’5 Forward (Providence, RI)
49. Kendall Small 5’10 Guard (Anaheim, CA)
50. Trevaughn Wilkerson 6’5 Forward (Philadelphia, PA)
51. Juwan Gooding 5’10 Guard (Milton, MA)
52. Derrick Jones 6'5 Forward (Chichester, PA)
53. Austrian Robinson 6’4 Forward (Harlem, NY)
54. Tyvez Monroe 6’1 Guard (Alexandria, VA)
55. Lavar Alston 6’4 Guard (Philadelphia, PA)
56. Arker Ager 6’3 Guard (Bridgeport, CT)
57. Devin Liggeons 6’4 Guard (Philadelphia, PA)
58. Jordan Dallas 6’6 Forward (Long Beach, CA)
59. Tonny Blackwell 6’1 Guard (Forestville, MD)
60. Manny Taylor 6’4 Forward (Philadelphia, PA)
61. Blair Williams 6’6 Forward (Los Angeles, CA)
62. Tavon White 5’10 Guard (Wilmington, DE)
63. Marcus Derrickson 6’6 Forward (Bowie, MD)
64. Latrelle Franklin 5’9 Guard (Temecual, CA)
65. Jaquan Hickman 5’10 Guard (New York, NY)
66. Terrell Allen 5’11 Guard (Upper Marlboro, MD)
67. Malik Maitland 5’10 Guard (Palm Coast, FL)
68. Tyler Burch 6’4 Forward (Fountain Valley, CA)
69. Blair Howard 5’10 Guard (Bloomfield, CT)
70. James Wright 6’1 Guard (Jersey City, NJ)
71. John Middleton 6'0 Guard (Plesantville, NJ)
72. Derrick Boyd 5’9 Guard (Springfield, MA)
73. Richard Chapman 6'5 Forward (Jersey City, NJ)
74. Carlos Thrash 5'5 Guard (Fairfax, VA)
75. Otis Livingston 5'5 Guard (Maplewood, NJ)

Video Profile: Jalen Brooks (Plainfield, NJ)

Name: Jalen Brooks

AAU Team: We Run

Position: Combo Guard

Class: 2018

Breakdown: Brooks took home the Basketball Spotlight POY by stacking his trophy case with MVP hardware. The lefty scored the ball early and often in many of his high stacks games. Check out some of Jalen’s highlights from this past season and you can see why he got the nod.

St. Patrick Documentary Hits HBO October 25th

Prayer for a Perfect Season from Blowback Productions on Vimeo.

Follow the St. Patrick Celtics through their quest of trying to win their first National Championship. This documentary should be interesting and I will make sure to tune in.

Diary Of A Baller: Tyus "Kid Mamba" Battle (Edison, NJ) Entry #5

What’s up, basketball world? This week was busy, as usual, but it was fun because I managed to hang with friends and get a little bit of rest.

Monday was really good because I spent some quality time at home with my family. After I did my homework, I slept a few hours before dinner and Monday Night Football. I do not watch much football but my dad and my brother go out just about every week and throw the football up and down our lawn. It is one of my favorite things to do with them.

On Tuesday I had the Battlebasketball clinic at the Scotch Plains JCC. It was much easier this week because the kids listened and knew what to do the second time around. With the younger group we worked on basic moves like crossovers for layups, speed dribbles, power dribbles, and control dribbles. Then to end the night, we played a little knock-out and dribble knock- out. For the older group we also did a lot of ball handling, but since they are more advanced, we ran much more complicated drills like dribbling with two balls.

On Wednesday my dad and I went to the gym. We first lifted weights for about 30 minutes and did stairs and then the StairMaster for an hour. My dad does not like me to lift heavy weights, he says I am still young and growing so we lift very light and do a lot of reps. After we finished our strength workout we shot 300 jumpers, while reviewing individual moves. After 30 minutes we rush home for some late dinner.

Thursday I worked out at St. Joe’s and we shot a lot of jumpers from everywhere on the floor. In my opinion it’s always good to get up a lot of jump shots because it builds stamina and consistency. Following the shooting drills we went full court. I think I played well but a few of the high school kids seemed to pass the ball back and fourth to each other. So sometimes I can go through periods without touches. That’s when I focus on rebounding and working on the things I can control. I am really starting to get used to playing with older kids and its helpful because most of them are stronger, but I find myself to be quicker with the ball and more skilled.

I didn’t have school on Friday so I went to the mall with some of the kids from my school from 12pm to 4pm. I don’t really like spending my whole day at the mall, but I went anyway to get out of the house. When I go home from the mall I went on my Play Station 3 to play a little bit of Modern Warfare 2 and Black Ops with some friends. I played for hours which is normally only allowed in my house on the weekends when everything else is done. Friday was a great day.

Saturday, I was supposed to go to the gym and workout with Vinney Darpina. My dad used to train him and now Vinney plays professional ball in Europe. He works me out when he is home. We did not know Coach Pete had a boot camp in the same gym so we both jumped into Coach Pete’s training instead. We ran about 25-30 sprints to get our conditioning up and worked on moves to the basket. Then I had a 5 hours break before Micah Lancaster clinic at 7pm and I have to say Mr. Lancaster has some of the best skill development drills I have ever seen or done. We worked on finishes at the basket and we did a lot of drills using a tennis ball. If you have never heard of Micah Lancaster you should look him up on Youtube because his drills will help to bring your game to the next level.

It is late and I need to get some rest. Quiz tomorrow on some vocabulary words in Religion. I am prepared so I should do well. Until next week. Peace!