Thursday, February 28, 2013
AC Showcase Almost Here: Who's Ready To Shine?
The Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase is right around the corner and competition will be fierce. This event has become one of Basketball Spotlight’s biggest stages with players and teams coming in all over the country. Now it’s almost time for us to see who emerges from this year’s edition.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Cole, Moultrie and Lykes Shine At The Clash
The 8th Grade Championship Game of the Clash For The Cup came down to the wire. This game was filled with some talented players. Check RJ Cole (Playaz), Jamir Moultrie (DCA) and Chris Lykes (DCA) get busy in the finals. Also stay tuned as we bring you more coverage from this and other events.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
DeAndre Ayton Is The Real Deal!
DeAndre Ayton is back with another mixtape and this one really displays his top notch skills. This kid has a chance to be something special down the road. Right now he has a great chance to be #1 when we release our Class of 2017 rankings at the end of August.
Atlantic City Showcase Registration Deadline Approaching
The Basketball Spotlight Atlantic City Showcase registration deadline is March 10th. Any team not fully registered for this event by that date will be in danger of losing their spot in the tournament (no exceptions). Please use the link below to register for the tournament.
Click Here To Register
Pete Marston Presents: Basketball Bootcamp
Beginning March 17th Coach Pete Marston will be conducting his Basketball Bootcamp. This is an opportunity to train exclusively with Pete Marston a former member of the St. Patrick’s School coaching staff. Coach Marston will bring the best of out every player and teach the fundamentals needed to excel in the game of basketball.
Event: Basketball Bootcamp
Date: March 17th (Each Sunday Afterwards)
Cost: $175
Place: Phoenix Building (94 Green St. Woodbridge, NJ)
Monday, February 25, 2013
Basketball Spotlight Player Of The Week: Deondre Bournes (Black Mambas)
Deondre Bournes (Black Mambas)
The Basketball Spotlight Player Of The Week goes to Deondre Bournes of the Black Mambas. Bournes scored 23 points to help the Black Mambas defeat Team Flight 75-59 and win the Hoop Group Winter Showdown. Congrats to Deondre and keep working hard, this is just the beginning.
One One One Feat. Luther Muhammad (Team IZOD)
Luther Muhammad (Team IZOD)
Luther Muhammad won Player Of Year honors last season while leading King Street Kings to the Grand Finale championship. This year he moved over to the “Supreme Team” and helped them win the Tip Off Classic and a #1 spot in our rankings. We contacted Luther for a little conversation and here’s what he had to say.
Diary Of A Baller: Nate "The Great" Pierre Louis (Plainfield, NJ) Entry #10
Nate and Family on Senior Night
Hello basketball world I had an awesome week and here’s how everything went.
First of all I would like to thank all of the great Presidents. Monday was Presidents Day and usually we have the day off but not this year. We played against St. Patrick’s and they are loaded. They have Ray, Patrick and Khalif from Team IZOD and Marcus and Jamir from the Playaz even though Jamir was out. My team played solid and with all their talent we only lost by 11. I’m proud of my teammates and the way they fought especially my brother Josh “The Jet” he had a good game.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Boys and Girls Club Of Trenton Youth League Recap
Tahmeer Glover (Divine Land)
Saturday Basketball Spotlight traveled to the Boys and Girls Club in Trenton, NJ to check out some action. Here are some of the players that impressed us in the capital city.
Top Performers
Tahmeer Glover Guard (Divine Land)- Glover was the lead catalyst while carrying his team to the victory. He’s very aggressive when penetrating and has the ability to make shots. In time he will need to tighten up his handle and decision making but he’s only a 6t Grader thus time is on his side.
Brandon Hendryx Forward (Divine Land)- This 4th Grader is going to be huge one day. He already clogs up the middle and works hard to rebound. Since his mom was a high school star basketball is definitely in his blood so we look for him to be a monster down the road.
Brandon Moore Guard (Cycle Kings)- This southpaw has the heart of a lion. He dribbled through traps and seemed to always make the correct pass. He’s small in stature but has a big presence on the floor. Any coach would love to have him.
Tymire Bethea Guard (Cycle Kings)- Bethea was able to score at times and when he learns to take his time he will be even better. I like his feel for the game and scoring mentality. I can’t wait to see the finished product down the road.
Nyaare McRae Forward (Basketball Spotlight)- Mcrae could have received MVP on the day. The energy player made all the right plays to help his team get the victory. He rebounded hard and played aggressive defense. When his team needed some buckets he came through by scoring the ball.
Brian Lockhart Guard (Basketball Spotlight)- Lockhart has a slick handle and loves using the double crossover to trip up opponents. He got to the hole at will and used these skills to help his team get the win. I like how his future looks.
Devin Coleman Guard (Basketball Spotlight)- This 4th Grader has the poise and posture to hang in there with his older opponents. He understands his strengths which help him stay out of trouble. We look for him to be a heady point guard down the road.
Khazir Brown Guard (East Coast Thunder)- Brown also has basketball bloodlines. He’s a Chew and they have produced several basketball studs throughout the Trenton area for years. Now it’s Brown’s turn to carry the torch and he seems more than ready after knocking down several outside shots.
Prince Attoh Forward (East Coast Thunder)- This bruising played in a Charles Barkley mode. He charged the lane hard and should good touch when kissing the ball off the glass. He worked extremely hard to help his team get the win even though they came up short.
Scih’mir Brown Guard (East Coast Thunder)- Scih’mir also got into the scoring column. He was able to help out from the perimeter and while penetrating. His play made things close down the stretch. He’s a good asset for this squad.
Friday, February 22, 2013
Spotlight Alum Briscoe Joins Dunkfest
Boogie" Briscoe Flushes Hard
These Basketball Spotlight Alums has the site turning into a high school forum right now. Next up is Isaiah “Boogie” Briscoe. Two years ago Briscoe took the Spotlight circuit by storm and left with 8th Grade Player Of The Year Honors. Now helping St. Benedict's win NJ Prep Championships. Check out this vicious flush after a steal against Hun.
Spotlight Alum "Kid Mamba" Still Shining!
Tyus "Kid Mamba" Battle (Class 2016 Alum)
Tyus “Kid Mamba” Battle made national headlines after his performance at the Cancer Research Classic in West Virginia. His play draw rave reviews from top scouts including Dave Telep from ESPN. We can know see the highlights from this event courtesy of Ty Kish and City League Hoops. Battle received “The Stamp” after his 7th Grade season and is projected to a top 10 player when the new Class of 2016 ranking is released.
One On One Feat. Myles Dread (Metro Sixers)
Myles Dread (Metro Sixers)
Myles Dread was one of the most impressive players I saw at John Lucas Future Of The Game Camp this summer in Hampton, Virginia. His play and ability to be a match up problem caught my eye immediately. He finished the camp as one of the top players. This season he played in both Spotlight events and helped his team reach the final four of the Clash For The Cup. We reached out to the Metro Sixers star and here’s what he had to say.
Spotlight Alum Kidd-Gilchrist Climbs Monroe's Chest
Mike Kidd-Gilchrist (At Clash For The Cup)
Basketball Spotlight Alum Mike Kidd-Gilchrist showed off his leaping ability when he banged on Greg Monroe of the Pistons. Kidd-Gilchrist played in several Basketball Spotlight with RBK All Stars including the Clash For The Cup. Gilchrist was issued “The Stamp” at the beginning of his 8th Grade season.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
"Supreme Team" Releases Highlight Mixtape
Team IZOD aka “Supreme Team” is currently ranked as the #1 team in the region. This loaded bunch is gearing up for the big time AC Showcase. Here’s a highlight reel featuring their top players. Basketball Spotlight will keep you posted as the “Supreme Team” take their march to a chance for an AAU National title.
Introducing Javonni Bickham (New Hope, MN)
Javonni Bickham is a 6’5 forward in the Class of 2018. It’s only right that he wears number 42 because when I saw his footage he reminded me of a miniature Elton Brand. He has a decent face up game near the foul line and can pat the rock enough to drive past defenders. If he stretches out a few more inches his stock should rise even more. His AAU squad seems to be Playground Elite but in this video he's rocking with Team Sizzle.
One On One Featuring: Mikey Watkins (Playtime)
Last season Mikey Watkins quarterbacked Team IZOD aka “Fly Guys” to a very successful campaign. When this season rolled around and the “Supreme Team” was formed Watkins decided to head over to Playtime and the move paid dividends for the Union County product. Watkins has had a memorable season thus far even hitting the game winner shot in the championship of the MLK Classic. We sat down with Mickey for a little conversation and here’s what he had to say.
One On One
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Breaking News: Mario Chalmers Joins The World Of AAU
The Mario V. Chalmer’s Foundation is coming to the national AAU circuit. Mario Chalmers is best known for his national championship winning miracle shot at Kansas and is currently the point guard for the NBA defending champion Miami Heat. Mario is one of a handful in basketball history to have won a national championship in AAU, high school, college, and the NBA. Chalmer’s Team Rio Elite 6th grade team will based out of central New Jersey and compete nationally in the NJ State AAU district and NYBL. The team will be trained by I’m Possible founder Micah Lancaster and Bryce Stanhope. Team Rio’s first basketball spotlight tournament will be the Memorial Day Classic. For info regarding Team Rio Elite including tryouts, please contact Brian Klatsky at bnkgator@mac.com or 732-904-0950.
Mr. Spotlight Presents: 8th Grade Midseason Report
We have reached the halfway mark to the Road To The Grand Finale. Here's our 8th Grade report presented by Mr. Spotlight.
Team To Beat: Playaz Basketball Club
Surprise Team: Team Nelson
Team Nelson came to the MLK and took the event by storm. I was happy to this group back on the floor and made the opposition pay. Now as they enter the AC Showcase the competition will be a little stiffer so we will see how they respond.
POY Leading Candidate: Jamir Harris (Playaz)
Harris took the POY lead after dominating the circuit for the last two months. He led the Playaz to several championships including the Clash For The Cup crown. Now the big question is can he take them all the way to the Grand Finale championship.
Surprise Player: LJ Stansberry (Team Nelson)
I had no idea who this kid was but he caught my attention quickly at the MLK Classic. His versatility stood out as he marched his team to the championship. He also has a calm and confident demeanor which might equate to a bright future on the floor.
Coach Of The Year Leading Candidate: Damon Wright (Playaz) Wright showed his prowess by taking a group of new players and turning them into winners. They currently lead the circuit in Grand Finale points and will be searching for the #1 seed in the final four.
Mr. Spotlight Presents: 7th Grade Midseason Report
We have reached the halfway mark of the Road To The Grand Finale. Here's our report for the 7th Grade presented by Mr. Spotlight.
Team To Beat: Team IZOD
The “Supreme Team” took its first loss recently but we still feel they are the team to beat in the long run. Now they need to refocus and get ready for the AC Showcase. This will be their true test with national powers DC Assault and We All Can Go All Stars in the building.
Surprise Team: Playtime Panthers
The Panthers have a MLK Classic championship, a final four appearance at the Tip Off Classic and a runner up finish at the MIT. The Green and Black seem capable of knocking off anyone and a lot of the credit has to go to their improved backcourt including POY Candidate Mikey Watkins.
MIA Squad: DC Assault
All the speculation will come to an end when the National Champs arrive for the AC Showcase. I know I’m anxious to see them rock and so are a lot of others.
POY Leading Candidate: Danillo Djuricic (CIA Bounce)
Djuricic jumped into the driver’s seat after leading his team to a final four appearance at the Tip Off Classic and the Clash For The Cup championship. The versatile forward has been a dominant force on the Spotlight circuit but don’t count out Mikey Watkins of Playtime, Javon Quinerly of Team IZOD or Brandon Slater from Metro Sixers.
Surprise Player: Mikey Watkins (Playtime) Watkins improvements in his game have made him a viable POY candidate. He has led Playtime to a MLK Championship and a final four appearance at the Tip Off Classic. If he keeps up the pace Playtime could win the Grand Finale crown and he could take home the POY trophy.
Coach Of The Year Leading Candidate: Zegary Scott (Playtime Panthers) Coach Scott has got his boys to play at a higher level and I think this is just the beginning. They seem hungry and ready to attack any opposition put in front of them. Hopefully they can get this momentum in the second half of the circuit.
Mr. Spotlight Presents: 6th Grade Midseason Report
We have reached the halfway mark of the Road To The Grand Finale. Here's our second quarter report for the 6th Grade presented by Mr. Spotlight.
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Team To Beat: Team IZOD
Surprise Team: Metro Flyers
I knew Coach Dermon would get these guys ready but I didn’t think it would be this quick. They haven’t won a Spotlight banner yet but I think that will happen soon. Matter of fact they might have a chance to win the entire Grand Finale crown.
MIA Squad: Playaz
I keep hearing that PBC has a good 6th Grade squad but have yet to see them in action. They will be entering the shark infested waters of the AC Showcase. Hopefully they are ready to go.
POY Leading Candidate: Joshua Pierre Louis (Metro Flyers) “The Jet” has helped this first year program gain momentum towards the Grand Finale banner. The all around point guard play has elevated his teammates and allowed to defeat some good squads. Now he must try to guide them to the ultimate prize in June.
Surprise Player: Tay “OMG” Allen (6th Man Warriors)
Allen bum rushed the Clash For The Cup and before anyone realized it he had his team in the final four. This kid scored from everywhere from the floor. Now that the cat is out the bag he must get ready because defenses will be focusing on him.
Coach Of The Year Leading Candidate: Rich Weiss (MJ Mavericks) Weiss has brought his team within a few points off knocking off some of giants in the region. His squad is always ready to play and is very fundamentally sound. Opponents please don’t sleep on this bunch cause it can make you sorry.
Mr. Spotlight Presents: 5th Grade Midseason Report
We have reached the halfway mark of the Road To The Grand Finale. Here’s our second quarter report presented by Mr. Spotlight.
Team To Beat: Gauchos
Surprise Team: CJ Hawks
By winning the Clash For The Cup the Hawks have shown they are a force to be reckon with. We didn’t have them pegged to be this successful this season but they made us into believers. Now they must get ready to make a run for the Grand Finale banner.
MIA Squad: RIP City
We are still waiting to see this year’s edition of this squad. It should be fun to see them come in and mix it up with the rest of the field. They better be ready.
POY Leading Candidate: Zion Harmon (Team Glory)
“The Lion” has not delivered a title to Team Glory but few can dispute the 4th Graders progress on the floor. The Washington, DC product has led Team Glory to championship game appearances for the Tip Off Classic and Clash For The Cup. He’s also the leading scorer on this level on the Spotlight circuit.
Surprise Player: Tomas Bublis (CJ Hawks)
This kid put up enormous numbers at the Clash For The Cup. No 5th Grade squad seemed to have the answer for stopping his scoring ability. If he keeps up this type of play the Hawks might have a chance to run the table.
Coach Of The Year Leading Candidate: Tahj Holden (CJ Hawks) The former Maryland Terrapin forward has guided the Hawks to the Clash For The Cup title after coaching them to the final four of the Tip Off Classic. He has done a tremendous job getting these guys ready to rock.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
One On One Feat. Marvin Bagley III (Arizona)
Last summer I traveled down to the 6th Grade AAU Nationals in search of the next big prospect. I heard about this kid from 916 Select out of California and felt I needed to check him out. Once I saw Marvin Bagley III play I know my journey was complete. The developing small forward passed the look test standing 6’5 and the skill test when I watched him perform. After the tournament he appeared at the top of several ranking list for the Class of 2018. Marvin currently plays for We All Can Go All Stars and Team Bibby. We contacted Marvin to see what was going on and this is what he said.
One On One
BS: What are your basketball goals for the season?
MB3: To become a better player than I was last year. I also want to win an AAU National Championship.
BS: Who’s your favorite player and why?
MB3: It’s hard to choose just one favorite player because I like so many. If I had to narrow it down, my two favorites would be Kevin Durant & Blake Griffin. I like Kevin Durant because he can score in so many ways, and Blake Griffin because he’s an unbelievable dunker.
BS: What is the strongest aspect of your game?
MB3: My work ethic is the strongest aspect of my game. I enjoy working on being a better basketball player.
BS: What aspect of your game needs the most improvement?
MB3: I would have to say I need to not be so hard on myself. Sometimes I may expect too much from myself.
BS: What was your fondest basketball moment?
MB3: When I dunked a rebound in Portland, Oregon and the basket broke. After the dunk, the hydraulics failed and the rim dropped to the floor. After a short delay, the basket was fixed and the game resumed.
BS: What’s your dream college and why?
MB3: My favorite college team is Arizona State University, because my grandpa played there in the 1960’s and his #32 jersey was retired there. However, I’m not sure what college I want to attend when the time comes.
BS: Who is the toughest opponent you ever faced?
MB3: My dad is the toughest opponent I ever faced on the basketball court. It’s always really tough when I play him one on one.
BS: How do you deal with the pressure of being ranked the #1 player in the class?
MB3: I try not to think about rankings, because it’s just a matter of different opinions. I was taught that people can love the way you play today and hate the way you play tomorrow. I don’t feel pressure about rankings. The only pressure I feel is from myself, and it’s when I push myself to get better.
BS: If you could have dinner with one person, who would you select and why?
MB3: I would want to have dinner with Michael Jordan, because he’s the best ever and I would love to hear advice from him directly to me about how I could become the best ever.
BS: Give me one word to describe your game.
MB3: BLESSED!
Basketball Spotlight Feature: Presenting Cameron Reddish
Team Final has become the pipeline for future stars. Sacramento Kings Tyreke Evans led the way and he was followed by Dion Waiters (Cleveland Cavaliers) and Mike Kidd-Gilchrist (Charlotte Bobcats). Rondae Jefferson and frosh phenom Tyus Battle are considered next in line, but the buck doesn’t stop there as the next prodigy seems to be Cameron Reddish of Eagleville, Pennsylvania. The 7th Grader has shown flashes during his time on the Spotlight circuit and most recently at the Maryland Invitational Tournament.
Coach Orlando Hildago is excited about having Reddish as a part of his program. “I like that he is very crafty with the ball as well as shoot the ball. This past weekend I saw him go to the basket with ease. His length presents a problem for most guards to check him. On the defensive side of the ball his size makes it hard for smaller guards to get past him. I think he has the potential to be very special” he finished.
Basketball Spotlight will keep you posted in the progress of Reddish. Cameron and his Team Final teammates will be making an appearance at the AC Showcase. Don’t miss the action.
Spotlight Alum Reed Posterizes Defender
Several Basketball Spotlight Alums have been catching some sick dunks lately. Next up is Davon Reed currently of Princeton Day School and Team Final. Reed appeared in several Basketball Spotlight events as an 8th Grader with KBR Fliers. Reed then moved over to the Team Final Flagship and will be headed to the University of Miami in the fall. Stay tuned as we bring you more exciting footage and news from Basketball Spotlight.
Basketball Spotlight Feature: Swain Spreading His Wings
The “Money Team” entered the season with their usual suspects as prime stars but few envisioned the emergence of Azar Swain. Swain is one of the hottest players on the AAU circuit right now. The improvements in his game have become evident especially to his coach Reggie Hatchett. “Azar has taken full advantage of playing against the top competition. He is a student of the game so he is great at studying opponents. He recognizes his deficiencies and focuses on turning them into strengths. His basketball IQ mixed with his dedication to training is the reason why he is improving at this fast rate” said Hatchett.
Basketball Spotlight will keep you posted on Swain’s progress and don’t forget to check out the “Money Team” as they head down to America’s Playground for the Atlantic City Showcase March 30th and 31st.
Ohio's Top 2 8th Graders Battle At Buckeye Prep (Harris vs. Hill)
Jaylen Harris and Logan Hill are considered Ohio's top 8th graders (Class of 2017). Both prospects stand 6'4 and have great mobility and skills for their size. Jaylen Harris has a nice outside jumper and handles the ball well in transition. Logan Hill does most of his damage inside, grabbing boards and getting put back lay ups. Keep your eye on both players in years to come.
Monday, February 18, 2013
Zahree "Boy Wonder" Harrison (Team Phenom) Mixtape
Zahree “The Boy Wonder” Harrison from Philly’s Team Phenom is back with another mixtape. The 5th Grader is still in search of his first Basketball Spotlight banner but has been putting in serious work along the way. He’s a natural point guard with a shifty handle, scoring ability and superb court vision. Check out Harrison’s work
on this video.
Metro Sixers Win MIT Championship
#4 Metro Sixers defeated #5 Playtime 69-65 to win the Maryland Invitational 7th Grade Championship. Congratulations to Metro Sixers for winning the championship.
Roster: Xavier Johnson, Myles Dread, Aman Greenwood, Justin Moore, Anthony Harris, Heru Bligen, Craig Morrow, Ike Neweke, George Kent, Brandon Madison, and Colin Bannister
Basketball Spotlight Player Of The Week: Brandon Slater (Metro Sixers)
The Basketball Spotlight Player Of The Week goes to Brandon Slater of Metro Sixers. Slater hit 6 treys and scored 29 points while leading Metro Sixers to the Maryland Invitational 7th Grade Championship while also taking home MVP Honors. Congratulations Brandon and keep up the good work.
Class of 2017 Video Profile: Devin Newton (Los Angeles, CA)
Devin Newton was a hot name on the camp circuit for years after putting in work at the Jr. All American Camp and Adidas Jr. Phenom. He reclassified into the Class of 2017 last year and should be a good addition at the point guard spot. The lefty should be a name to keep an eye on in years to come.
Diary Of A Baller: Nate "The Great" Pierre Louis (Plainfield, NJ) Entry #9
Hey basketball world. This week was a tough week and here’s how it went.
Monday was tough because we started a week full of midterms. My first midterm was in science and it was much easier than expected. Maybe it’s because my mom is such a great teacher. The positive part of midterm was that we didn’t have any homework. I had to get ready for senior night which included my last home game. I just want to thank Coach Will for seeing something in me that no one else did at such a young age. GSA is where my basketball journey began. After the game I went straight home and went to sleep.
Friday, February 15, 2013
Basketball Spotlight Alum Mosley Throws Down "Dunk Of The Year"
Basketball Spotlight 2014 Alum Anthony “Champ” Mosley is climbing new heights at Sanford High School in Delaware. The youngster is a strong point guard and showed off his leaping ability in a recent game. This flush was considered “Dunk Of The Week” but it might be “Dunk Of The Year” in my book. Mosley played in several Basketball Spotlight events including the Inaugural J.E.M. All Star Classic and was a Diary Of A Baller writer. Congrats “Champ” and keep working hard.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Basketball Spotlight Headed To Nashville, Tennessee (WACG All Stars Tournament)
On March 15th thru 17th Basketball Spotlight will be headed to Nashville, Tennessee for the We All Can Go All Stars Tournament. This event will feature some of the top teams in the country and Basketball Spotlight will be there to bring you exclusive coverage of this event. That means tournament recaps and evaluations. This is our first time going to Nashville and we are excited to be in the building.
Event: We All Can Go All Stars Tournament
Date: March 15th thru 17th (Showcase Games Friday)
Place: Nashville, TN
Cost: $200.00
Introducing DeAndre Ayton (Team Bibby)
I’ve seen the name DeAndre Ayton name on several ranking sites but this was my first look at the youngster. From this brief highlight tape I can see that his still very raw on the offensive end but you can’t teach his size and length. At 6’9 he has to be considered as one of the top 8th Graders in the country. We will probably get a look at Ayton during the 8th Grade Nationals in Disney.
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel
The Basketball Spotlight Top 10 8th Grade teams are listed below. Please remember these rankings are just our opinion and should be taken as such.
Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel
1. Playaz: PBC moves into the #1 spot after winning the Clash For The Cup. They are playing like the hottest team in the region and have a good shot to win the Grand Finale.
2. CBC: This is the “Money Team” first week not at #1. Now they must rebound as we head down to the AC Showcase. Ironically this is where they started the Spotlight march a few years ago.
3. DC Assault: DCA made it to the finals of the Clash for the Cup. They were rocking and rolling right now.
4. Team IZOD: IZOD made a good run at the Clash before losing in the final four. I think they have enough experience to capture the Grand Finale banner.
5. Team Takeover: TT will be back in action this weekend at the MIT. They are a veteran bunch to always seem to come together at the right time.
6. CIA Bounce: The Canadian squad made it to the final four after a good showing at the Clash. We knew they had the potential was always there.
7. New Heights: NH lost in the quarterfinals after battling hard at the Clash. I have not got the word on whether they were coming to AC as of yet.
8. Expressions: The X got off to a great start at the Clash before running into the buzz-saw called CBC. We won’t probably see them again until the MDC.
9. Team Nelson: TN enters the Top 10 after winning MLK Classic. They will be back in action for the AC Showcase where the comp will be tougher.
10. PYO: The scrappy Philly bunch brings up the rear of the Top 10. This is a squad no one wants to see in AC.
Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel
The Basketball Spotlight Top 10 7th Grade teams are listed below. Please remember these rankings are just our opinion and should be taken as such.
Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel
1. Team IZOD: The “Supreme Team” abruptly pulled out of the Clash but because of their body of work they still enter the AC Showcase as the #1 team in our rankings. AC will be a tough task with WACG and National Champs DC Assault in the building.
2. CIA Bounce: Bounce became the first international squad to win a Spotlight banner. They moved into our #2 slot and want a shot at #1 IZOD and we would love to see it also.
3. DC Assault: Oh yes DCA checks in at #3 and a lot of questions will get answered once they travel to the AC Showcase. We will have a clear picture of everything after March 31st.
4. Metro Sixers: Another final four run at the Clash moves MS into our Top 5. They are a consistent threat to win it all each tournament they enter.
5. Playtime: Playtime was idle during the Clash but has agreed to enter the hot sands of Atlantic City. The green and black better be ready to rumble. They are trying to make a repeat trip to the Grand Finale final four.
6. Wall 2 Wall: The Wall stumbled at the MLK Classic and was absent during the Clash. I think Coach Rockmore used this time to refocus his group.
7. Gauchos: The Choz check in at #7 after making it to the finals of the Clash. I like some of their pieces and think they are capable of knocking off any team.
8. New Rens: I haven’t seen New Rens since the Tip Off Classic. Hopefully they will be ready to go during the MIT and rest of their season.
9. ECE: The Delaware boys had an excellent chance to making to the final four at the Clash before blowing a late lead against the Gauchos. The made it to the quarterfinals therefore they have the #9 spot.
10. Mass Shooting Stars: MSS had a better showing than they did at the Tip Off Classic before losing to eventual champ CIA Bounce in the quarterfinals of the Clash.
Basketball Spotlight 6th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Apparel
The Basketball Spotlight Top 10 6th Grade teams are listed below. Please remember these rankings are just our opinion and should be taken as such.
Basketball Spotlight 6th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel
1. Team IZOD: Team IZOD had a quarterfinal ouster at the Clash but their overall body of work still has them in the #1 spot. They are also knee deep in the running for the Grand Finale final four. AC will give them the chance to get back in the winner’s circle.
2. Metro Flyers: MF finally got over hump and defeated Team IZOD. A victory over CIA Bounce in the finals probably would have moved them to #1. The AC Showcase might give them another shot at the top slot.
3. Team Nelson: TN in the semifinals to Metro Flyers. They will be looking to make some noise at the AC Showcase. Should be interesting.
4. CIA Bounce: The Bounce moved up from #9 after winning the Clash For The Cup. I don’t know when we will see this group again but they were great to watch.
5. ETU Select: These boys have yet to reach the preseason expectations. They got bounced in the quarterfinals by Team Nelson but will be back on the horse for the AC Showcase.
6. Team Takeover: TT was riding with a lot of momentum before getting knocked off by an upset minded 6th Man Warriors.
7. MJ Mavericks: The Mavs gave the eventual champions the best game of the event. They had strong showings at the MLK and Clash For The Cup.
8. CJ Hawks: The Hawks return to action at the AC Showcase. I haven’t seen them since the Tip Off Classic but we know they should be ready to go by the AC Showcase.
9. 6th Man Warriors: The Warriors made a final four run at the Clash and knocked off a few good teams. They are anxious to head to AC and get back into the Spotlight.
10. New Heights: NH is bringing up the rear right now but I think they might have another breakout performance soon.
Basketball Spotlight 5th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel
The Basketball Spotlight Top 10 5th Grade teams are listed below. Please remember these rankings are just our opinion and should be taken as such.
Basketball Spotlight 5th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel
1. CJ Hawks: After a final four run at the Tip Off Classic, the Hawks got over the top at the Clash. They now hold the #1 spot heading into the AC Showcase. They seem to have a Grand Finale slot locked up.
2. Gauchos: The Choz decided to skip the Clash but hopefully we will get a chance to see them in AC.
3. Team Glory: Two baskets separate this team from having two titles and being #1 in our rankings. Now as we head to AC they will be looking to cross the threshold into the land of champions.
4. Team Phenom: The Philly boys made it to the final four but still haven’t brought home a chip yet. Hopefully they can roll the dice in AC and make some things happen.
5. Team DEMI: The Boston boys came to the Clash and made it to the final four. I knew they would come with toughness and they didn’t let us down.
6. Team Takeover (Gorham)- Apparently Coach Gorham has his squad ready to go and we will see as they enter the AC Showcase.
7. RIP City: The Super squad from last year will be making their debut at the AC Showcase. They have some ground to make it against the other teams.
8. On Point Cyclones: OPC dropped out of the Clash in the last minute. I don’t know if we seen the last of them or maybe they might be at the MDC.
9. Team Takeover (Orange): I can’t wait to see this bunch in AC. A great tournament run could get them back into the Grand Finale race.
10. NJ Shore Shots: NJSS made their Spotlight debut and bring up the rear of our rankings. Hopefully we will see them again soon.
East Coast March Madness Returns
Event: East Coast March Madness
Date: March 9th and 10th
Place: Brookdale Community College (Lincroft, NJ)
Price: $325 (Per Team)
Ages: 3rd Grade Thru 7th Grade
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
AC Showcase Flashback: Harry Giles Leads Team Felton To Crown
Before Harry Giles was rated as the #1 Frosh in the country he tormented the opposition at the AC Showcase. In 2011 Giles stormed through the AC Showcase while leading Team Felton to the Championship. The lanky forward made his mark and was awarded “The Stamp” soon afterwards. Giles made his name in America’s Playground and who
will be next?
Inside The Clash For The Cup 5th Grade: New Champion Emerges
The 5th Grade Division of the Clash For The Cup wrapped up with a thrilling final. Here’s our last look at the stories and developments from this age group.
Inside The Clash For The Cup 5th Grade
CJ Hawks Flying High!
The CJ Hawks came to the Clash to earn some respect and they achieved that and more. CJH won the title while defeating some good teams including Team Phenom and Team Glory. Now they will move up in our rankings and have made a name on this circuit.
Team Glory Still One Point Away
Team Glory made it to their second championship game and lost by only one point. As you remember during the Tip Off Classic they fell to the Gauchos by one point in the finals. Their next stop will be the AC Showcase and they are one of the early favorites once again. The banner is within their reach.
Clash For The Cup 5th Grade All Tournament Team
Tomas Bublis (CJ Hawks)
Charlie Gordinier (CJ Hawks)
Noah Harris (CJ Hawks)
Joe Manfredi (CJ Hawks)
Zion Harmon (Team Glory)
Noah Charles (Team Glory)
Dimingus Stephens (Team Glory)
Jomo Goions (Team Glory)
Jamari Foy (Team DEMI)
Terrence Clarke (Team DEMI)
Kurtis Henderson (Team DEMI)
Zahree Harrison (Team Phenom)
Nymire Little (Team Phenom)
Dymire Baez (Team Phenom)
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