Basketball Spotlight Feature: Lewis Enters MDC As #1 Player In America!

Scottie "The Show" Lewis 

The move to New Jersey has turned out well from Scottie Lewis. He has grown from little known talent in Georgia to a nationwide name since joining up with Team RIO National. Scottie's play on the court has earned him these accolades. He has led Team Rio to several championships including Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic, MLK Classic, MIT and NJ State Championship. Ty Kish from Middle School Hoops, the best video site in the country just released his Top 10 and he has Lewis at the #1 spot. 

Team Rio's director Brian Klatsky has been with Scottie since he touched down in the Garden State feels he deserves all the attention he receives and he won’t be fazed by the #1 ranking. “Scottie has been working hard since the day he arrived in NJ. He knows that there is a target on his back being highly ranked and it drives him to be work harder. Not only has he improved his game since arriving in NJ but he has elevated the game of his Rio teammates” he finished. 

Basketball Spotlight would like to congratulate Lewis on his recent success but also let him know that the road is very long and he must continue working. You can check out Team Rio National at the Basketball Spotlight MDC May 24th and 25th.

Basketball Spotlight Feature: Tanksley Eyes Return To The Circuit!

Jaheim Tanksley

Two years ago as a 5th Grader, Jaheim Tanksley was one of the region’s most known guards while playing with the Playtime Panthers. Since then besides a few spotted appearances Tankley has virtually vanished from the circuit. His father Lashawn Tankley thought it was the best move for Jaheim at the time. “After Playtime broke up we couldn’t really find a team in our area that wanted to compete at a national level. So he just hit the gym to and trained while also playing on his school team” said Lashawn. 

Now Lashawn says Jaheim is ready to return to the circuit and can help a contending team get over the top. “Jaheim brings a wealth of experience at the point guard spot, leadership and a high basketball IQ. During his time off he’s gotten a lot faster and stronger. I think he would be great addition for one of these top teams in our region” Tanksley finished. 

As the Basketball Spotlight comes to a close and the AAU Nationals heat up, don’t be surprised is a good 7th Grade team call on the services for this point guard. Basketball Spotlight will keep you guys posted on his progress.

Marvin Bagley III Receives "The Stamp"

Bagley Joins "The Stamp" Club

Marvin Bagley III entered the AC Showcase as the #1 player in the country and left a lasting impression on the East Coast and Basketball Spotlight. He dominated play on both ends of the floor and gave us some memorable highlights while leading his team to the championship. Since he’s been labeled as one of the best 8th Grade prospect to ever play in a Spotlight tournament it’s only right that he receives “The Stamp”. 

“The Stamp” is giving to a player that has performed in our events that we feel will be a college basketball star and probable NBA player. Many top players have received “The Stamp” in the past including Tyreke Evans, Lance Stephenson, Mike Gilchrist, Perry Dozier , Tyus Battle, Harry Giles and most recently Cody Riley.

Basketball Spotlight congratulates Marvin Bagley III for receiving “The Stamp” and wishes him the best of luck in his bright future. Remember young fella this is just the beginning and continue to work hard on and off the court.

Under The Radar: Pina Goes For 33 Points At AC Showcase!

Xavier Pina of We R 1 participated in the 6th Grade Blue Division of the Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase and lit up the scoreboard for 33 points. Pina is a bit under the radar now but after a shooting performance like this it causes us to take notice. Hopefully we get another chance to see this kid in action very soon as he continues to try and climb the ladder.

In The Spotlight: Julian Thomas (ESYC Elite 610ers)

Name: Julian Thomas 

AAU Team: ESYC Elite 610ers 

Position: Forward 

Class: 2020 

Analysis: ESYC Elite won the Blue Division Championship at the AC Showcase and Thomas led the way. The scoring wing player tallied 18 points in their win against Team Philly, 28 markers in the semifinals versus Wiz Kids and 22 points in the championship. Thomas continues to show that he’s one of the top 6th Graders in the region. We will keep our eye on this kid for sure.

Diary Of A Baller: Ja'Quaye James (Englewood, NJ) Entry #10

Team Player

Yooooooooooo world it's your boy Ja'Quaye James aka JellyFam Guwop signing on. All week I pretty much worked out and chilled. I was able to get in the gym 4 out of the 5days I had off from school. So I was good with that. We were gearing up for our Spring Fling tournament that we won in our age group, but got beat in the 16u division. It was tough, but I did what I needed to do. I played very well against bigger and stronger competition, so I guess we don't have to guess about me any more. You can't teach heart, that's all my pops tells me, and I am a firm believer. 

Can I handle playing up? Man can they handle me? All in all I had fun playing in both divisions. With the 16's we lost more than we won, but we were playing up, no excuses. I played really well against New York Lightning. I had like a good 18, our second game I played decent and our third game, it was everything, I had 20 points, but it didn't count so I can't celebrate that. 

In the 8th grade division, we was dominating the whole weekend. My favorite game was the championship game, I led my team vocally,and with points, and assists and they finished everything, we ended up beating Baltimore Elite by 12. I had 20pts and 6 wasn't too bad against a good team like that. It was good to compete and be back with my bros.. PLAYAZFAM can't do it without you'll. 

 Signing off... Men lie Women lie numbers don't!

Grand Finale Point Total Update!

The Basketball Road to the Grand Finale made its fith stop at the AC Showcase in Atlantic City, NJ. The next stop is the MDC in Neptune, NJ. Many top teams picked up points and things should only intensify as we head down near the America’s Playground. The Grand Finale Final Four will take place June 21st and 22nd. Here’s a look at the new point total. 

8th Grade Teams 
Team IZOD (17 Points) 
Playaz (16 Points) 
Team Twelve (12 Points) 
Team Takeover (10 Points) 
Maryland Scholars (9 Points) 
Team Final (7 Points) 

7th Grade Teams 
Team Takeover (20 Points) 
Team RIO National (14 Points) 
Team Nelson (11 Points) 
Rens (10 Points) 
Team Final (9 Points) 
CIA Bounce (8 Points) 

6th Grade Teams 
Team IZOD (13 Points) 
Team Takeover Black (8 Points) 
Team Takeover Orange (7 Points) 
Gauchos (7 Points) 
Team Glory (7 Points) 
GH Rising Stars (5 Points) 

5th Grade Teams 
Team Glory (12 Points)
Playtime Panthers (6 Points) 
S Elite (5 Points) 
WACG (4 Points) 
Team Takeover Black (4 Points) 
Team Nation (3 Points) 
Hilltoppers Heat (3 Points)

In The Spotlight: Kennedy Chandler (WACG All Stars)

Name: Kennedy Chandler 

AAU Team: WACG All Stars 

Position: Point Guard 

Class: 2021 

Analysis: The ultimate space creator, Chandler is one of the best knockdown shooters in the class of 2021; a true point guard with a dynamic combination of skills that include quickness, change of pace, and a smart pass first mentality – with the ball in his hands he is capable of making plays at any time for himself or for others. Versatile enough to play both backcourt positions he excels with ball in his hands where he can stop on a dime and pull up or attack off the dribble with an arsenal of cross over moves. With range beyond arc he is tough to guard anywhere on the floor; and especially effective in space and in transition.

What Did We Learn From The AC Showcase?

The AC Showcase is in the books and it was a true big time event. Now let’s take a look at a few things we learned during our trip to America’s Playground. 

What Did We Learn At The AC Showcase?

1. Bagley Is Truly #1 in the Country! 
Before this event I saw some debate on whether Marvin Bagley III was truly the #1 player in America. Well after his dominating performance at the AC Showcase the 6’9 wing has my vote. Bagley not only separated himself from the rest of the pack but he has to be the most talented 8th Grader to have ever stepped foot in a Spotlight tournament. So you know what’s coming in the next couple of days!

2. "Game Of The Year" Lives Up To The Hype! 
The Saturday night prime time showdown with WACG All Stars and Team IZOD was labeled the Game Of The Year and it lived up to the billing. The game had big time dunks, great play highlights, standing room only crowd, coaching flair and a controversial ending. We have had many big time matchups at Basketball Spotlight but nothing quite like this one. It was epic!

3. Supreme Team and WACG Not Done Yet! 
They split at 7th Grade and now they split at 8th Grade so something tells me this national rivalry id not done yet. I think the basketball gods will find a way to make they meet to settle it all in Orlando at the 8th Grade Nationals. It’s only fitting that they go into high school with a final say. We are just happy we were a part of this big time battle.

4. Harmon vs Springer Heating up! 
I saw that the battle for #1 in the Class of 2021 between Zion Harmon and Jaden Springer is heating up. They met in the finals of the AC Showcase and it was a total war. Both players showed their skills and have a great argument for the top spot. I just hope the coaches and the parents keep this competition in good spirits while making sure it stays on the floor.

5. Team Takeover and Team RIO Must Answer Questions! 
One of the matchups I hope materializes at the MDC on the 7th Grade level is Team Takeover versus Team RIO. Yes I said it! Team Takeover has been on a hot streak and is a different team with Justin Moore and AJ Harris. Team RIO controlled the first half of the circuit and possesses some of the top players in the country in Scottie Lewis and Mikeal Jones. A meeting at the MDC will let us know who the best team in the region is truly.

AC Showcase Highlights: Tyger On The Prowl At AC Showcase!

Tyger Campbell (WACG)

Tyger Campbell starred at the AC Showcase on the 7th and 8th Grade level. This was his first time on the Spotlight national stage and proved to be too much to handle. On the 7th Grade level he did the job scoring and helping his team reach the final four. On the 8th Grade level he came off the bench and was a key component to WACG taking home the title. He left this event as the # 1 point guard in the country for the class of 2019 in my opinion. Stay tuned because we have more to come from the AC Showcase. 

Basketball Spotlight MDC Gets Early Attention!

The Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic will be held May 24th and 25th (No Games Monday). Please make sure you register early because we have limited space available. Please take this serious because once it sells out we won’t be able to accommodate you. 

8th Grade Teams 
1. Rens 
2. Philly Thriple Threat 
3. Hoop Heaven Elite 
4. Team DEMI 
5. Jersey Shore Warriors 
6. We R 1 
7. Team 85 
8. CBC
9. Gym Ratz 
10. Team Twelve
11. NJ Connection
12. Jersey Force
13. South Jersey Select
14. Team Final 
15. Joey's Angels
16. NJ Shore Shots

7th Grade Teams 
1. Team Rio National 
2. Team Florida 
3. Rens 
4. Team Final 
5. Team Nelson 
6. Philly Triple Threat 
7. MSU Skyliners 
8. Ocean Basketball 
9. NJ Connection
10. Jersey Force
11. Morris Magic 
12. Team IZOD
13. KSK
14. CBC
15. 
16. 

6th Grade Teams 
1. KSK
2. SJ Domination 
3. MSU Skyliners 
4. Ocean Basketball 
 5. Team 85 
6. Mid Jersey Mavericks
7. Jersey Force
8. Hilltoppers Heat
9.
10.
11.
12. 

5th Grade Teams 
1. Boston Bobcats 
2. SJ Domination 
3. Playtime 
4. Riverside Hawks 
5. Jersey Force
6. Hilltoppers Heat
7. We R 1
8. New Heights
9.
10. 

4th Grade Teams 
1. Team RIO National 
2. Boston Bobcats 
3. Rens 
4. Playtime 
5. Riverside Hawks 
6. Team Future
7. MJ Heat
8. 
9. 
10.

AC Showcase 8th Grade Best Of The Best And Super 20 Player Performance Rankings!

Marvin Bagley (WACG)

The 8th Grade Division of the AC Showcase brought some of the best ballers that ever came through Basketball Spotlight. Here’s our Best Of The Best listing including the Top 25 Player Performance Rankings from the event. 

AC Showcase 8th Grade Best Of The Best 

Best Performer & Best Prospect: Marvin Bagley III (WACG) 
Bagley takes home both of these honors as he showed the East Coast that he’s truly the #1 Player in the Country. His total dominance was on display and he carved his name in the Spotlight archives forever. 

Best Scorer: Jahnvon Quinerly (Team IZOD) 
“Inferno’s” explosive 34 point outing during the big showdown will be one to be remembered. It was only fitting that ended the contest with the game winner shot. He’s another one that will be missed after he’s leaves the Spotlight circuit. 

Best Floor General: Ja’Quaye James (Playaz) 
As previously stated James sees the floor like an old school point guard. His teammates need to be ready with their hands up or get a Spalding mark on their face. He has eyes in the back of his head. 

Best Shooter: Darius Garland (WACG) 
Nobody in this event had more range and heart to pull the trigger as Garland. On the biggest stage in the country he was pulling bombs from the cheap seats. 

Best Defender: Nazi Reid (Team IZOD) 
Reid anchored Team IZOD defense with his shot blocking prowess. He will toss shots when guards are coming at him or he will also chase you down while in transition. 

Best Game: WACG vs. Team IZOD 
We had some great games during my Spotlight tenure but none quite like that Saturday night showdown. It was truly epic and will be a hard one to top. Trust me! 

AC Showcase Super 20 Player Performance Rankings 
1. Marvin Bagley (WACG) 
2. Jahvon Quinerly (Team IZOD) 
3. Nazi Reid (Team IZOD) 
4. Darius Garland (WACG) 
5. Cameron Johnson (WACG) 
6. Ja’Quaye James (Playaz) 
7. Justin Winston (Playaz) 
8. Luther Muhammad (Team IZOD) 
9. Kevin Easley (G3IE) 
10. Marquis Brown (WACG) 
11. Charles Pride (Gym Ratz) 
12. Mark Freeman (WACG) 
13. Markquis Nowell (Playaz) 
14. Atiba Taylor (Team IZOD) 
15. Armoni Sexton (Playaz) 
16. Shaquest Chavis (Team Twelve) 
17. Theodore Senior (Team Twelve) 
18. Kyle Thompson (Team IZOD) 
19. Tahanj Pettway (Team DEMI) 
20. Quashawn Lane (Joey’s Angels)

AC Showcase 7th Grade Best Of The Best & Super 15 Player Performance Rankings

Justin Moore (Team Takeover)

The 8th Grade Division of the AC Showcase brought some of the best ballers that ever came through Basketball Spotlight. Here’s our Best Of The Best listing including the Top 25 Player Performance Rankings from the event. 

AC Showcase 7th Grade Best Of The Best 

Best Performer: Justin Moore (Team Takeover) 
Yes Moore walks away with this award after leading TTO to another championship. He has made two Spotlight appearances with this squad and both times was holding the banner on Sunday. Can anyone slow him down? 

Best Prospect: Mahki Mitchell (DC Premier) 
After watching him this weekend Mitchell has all the tools to have a very bright future. He has the obvious size but the fact that he’s so confident and comfortable on the wing is even scarier. Mark my words he’s a problem. 

Best Scorer: Khyree Temple (Team Final) 
Simply put, Temple just has a nose for the ball and a knack to put it in the hole. He’s 28 point outburst top the charts for 7th Graders in this tournament. 

Best Floor General: Tyger Campbell (WACG) 
Few can argue this award because this kid did whatever he wanted to whoever guarded him. He plays with the speed and flair that keeps the crowd on the edge of their seats. 

Best Shooter: Matt Cross (Expressions) 
The kid showed he could knock them down even on the narrow floor. Take your chance and leave him open and you will pay dearly. 

Best Defender: Mahkel Mitchell (DC Premier) 
Mahkel makes life difficult when opponents are trying to score. His length causes some major issues during the game. 

AC Showcase Super 15 Player Performance Rankings 
1. Justin Moore (Team Takeover) 
2. Tyger Campbell (WACG) 
3. Mahki Mitchell (DC Premier) 
4. Khyree Temple (Team Final) 
5. Evan Buckley (DC Premier) 
6. Anthony Harris (Team Takeover) 
7. Terrence Williams (Team Takeover) 
8. Mahkel Mitchell (DC Premier) 
9. Lance Jones (WACG) 
10. Shawn Johnson (Team Final) 
11. Dontae Scott (Team Nelson) 
12. Fahmir Ali (Team Final) 
13. Matt Cross (Expressions) 
14. Tyler Brelsford (Team Takeover) 
15. Shawn”ke Knight (WACG)

AC Showcase 6th Grade Best Of The Best & Super 15 Player Performance Rankings

Hunter Jackson (GH Rising Stars)

The 6th Grade Division of the AC Showcase brought some of the top players in the Class of 2020. Here’s our Best Of The Best listing including the Top 15 Player Performance Rankings from the event. 

AC Showcase 6th Grade Best Of The Best 

Best Performer: Hunter Jackson (GH Rising Stars) 
Jackson willed his team to the championship. Even after they took a pool play lost he rallied the troops and make sure they took home the banner. 

Best Prospect: Trey Patterson (Team Nation) 
This kid is only 11 years old which is scary. He does every smooth with good size. Imagine when he’s 14. 

Best Scorer: Kieves Turner (Rip City) 
The new kid on the block wasted no time introducing himself to the Spotlight world. He was playing games with the opposition. Hopefully we will see him in action again soon. 

Best Floor General: Mike Saunders Jr. (GH Rising Stars) 
The true testament of a floor general is winning and Saunders proved to direct his team to the title, even if he does it with a little mustard. 

Best Shooter: Trey Galloway (GH Rising Stars) 
Galloway shoots like his has radar under his jersey. He has a good looking stroke and some range to go along with it. 

Best Playmaker: Ishmael Leggett (Team Takeover) 
Leggett does so much exciting in the game he had to make this list. He’s just one of those guys that impact the game whenever he touches the floor. 

Best Defender: Elijah Everett (Team IZOD)
He caused problems for opponents at the rear of their defense. He was either blocking or altering shots the entire weekend. Huge upside. 

AC Showcase Super 15 Player Performance Rankings 
1. Hunter Jackson (GH Rising Stars) 
2. Shane Dezonie (Team IZOD) 
3. Justin Lykes (Team Takeover) 
4. Ishmael Leggett (Team Takeover) 
5. Kieves Turner (Rip City) 
6. Zion Harmon (Team Glory) 
7. Zion Bethea (Team IZOD) 
8. Trey Patterson (Team Nation) 
9. Dimingus Stephens (Team Glory) 
10. Jamal Barnes (Team Takeover) 
11. Brevin Jefferson (GH Rising Stars) 
12. Nashaun Holmes (Team Nation) 
13. Lucky Dixon (WACG) 
14. Mike Saunders Jr. (GH Rising Stars) 
15. Elijah Everett (Team IZOD)

In The Spotlight: Jaden Springer (WACG)

Name: Jaden Springer 

AAU Team: We All Can Go All Stars 

Position: Point Guard 

Class: 2021 

Analysis: When players enter my tournament with a lot of hype it makes me more curious to see them rock. Springer is one of those types of players. I read about his accomplishments from around the country and I must say he’s worth every bit of the ink he receives. This youngster has size and command of his game which makes him a top stud in this grade. He danced around defenders and either passed or scored with ease. In the finals Team Glory tried all the tricks in the book be he still led his team to victory. I agree that he's a Top 3 player in America right.

AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 2

Ishmael Leggett (Team Takeover)

The 6th Grade Division of the AC Showcase was loaded with national teams and names. Here’s Part 2 of our look at the 6th Grade Top Performers. 

AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 2 

Ishmael Leggett Guard (Team Takeover)- I pray for defenders that are responsible of slowing Leggett down because it’s a tough job. This kid is a tremendous scorer and player maker at the guard position. He flourishes in transition when back pedaling guards are trying to slow him down. I love his body control when scoring over shot blockers and his ability to score from all three levels. He pumped in a game high 20 points in their overtime thriller against GH Rising Stars.

Justin Lykes Guard (Team Takeover)- Leggett running mate can also fill it up quickly. He has a good stroke from the perimeter and the confidence to let it go from anywhere. Justin scored 19 points in the big win versus GH Rising Stars and torched Team Nation for 24 points including 4 treys. He’s accustomed to the Spotlight’s bright stage which is why he stepped his game up. He helped guide them to the final four.

Jamal Barnes Forward (Team Takeover)- Barnes had an impressive weekend. I like how his uses his length on both ends of the floor. On offense he was able to score in traffic and finish off the break in transition. On defense he uses those arms to play the passing lane and intercept passes. He looks to be a serious prospect down the road.

Kieves Turner Forward (RIP City)- The top newcomer had to be Turner. The versatile forward nicknamed Duece was a problem for everyone he faced. He displayed the total package in terms of size, scoring ability and feel for the game. He can grab the rebound and push the pill himself but making a great play. That means at this age it’s very difficult for anyone to slow him down. He had the best game of any 6th Grader when he dropped 35 points in their matchup with Team Glory. We will be keeping an eye on this kid.

Dimingus Stephens Forward (Team Glory)- You have to love the way this kid boogies. His size makes him a definite matchup problem on this level. He’s natural scoring guard but can shoot and pass over top of most defenders. When they played Team IZOD he came up big with 24 points in the win.

Zion Harmon Guard (Team Glory)- Arguably the top 5th Grader in the country continues to dominate on the 6th grade level. He’s shown the ability the score whenever he wants but against Rip City he scored 18 of his 26 points from the charity stripe. This means they had no answer for his dribble penetration. He also finished with 20 markers against a tough GH Rising Stars crew.

Nashaun Holmes Guard (Team Nation)- Holmes showed off his mid-range pull up game at the AC Showcase. He’s tough to guard because he charges the defender and once the back pedal he will pull up on the dime. When he has that dropping he has takeover the game potential.

Trey Patterson Guard (Team Nation)- Patterson started the tournament with a spark as he blistered the Hilltoppers Heat with 20 points including two bombs from behind the arc. The smoothness of his game and poise on the floor makes me believe this kid will be one of the hottest names in years to come.

Lucky Dixon Forward (WACG)- The strong forward was a load to handle for anyone he faced. In his match-up versus IZOD he was a menace on the glass and made a living off put backs. He plays the game with high energy which usually results in good returns.

AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 1

Hunter Jackson (GH Rising Stars)

The 6th Grade Division of the AC Showcase was loaded with national teams and names. Here’s Part 1 of our look at the 6th Grade Top Performers. 

AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 1

Hunter Jackson Guard (GH Rising Stars)- No team had an answer for Jackson during the AC Showcase. The combo guard got wherever he wanted on the floor and scored at will. His money ball was the running floater in the lane or the pull up in traffic. Teams tried several different defensive schemes to no avail. He tallied 16 points in the championship game versus IZOD. If we gave out a MVP award he would have taken it home.

Trey Galloway Guard (GH Rising Stars)- Galloway has serious range and showed accuracy from behind the arc. He steps into the gaps when the talented GH ball handlers penetrate the lane. If he gets a chance to set his feet he’s usually money in the bank. This kid has a mean ratchet.

Brevin Jefferson Forward (GH Rising Stars)- Jefferson is a slasher that finishes with either hand. On defense he can guard any position from the one to the five. He’s the glue guy for this squad and had a very productive weekend.

Mike Saunders Jr. Guard (GH Rising Stars)- If you want some flavor in a guard look no further than Saunders. His skill set is legit and he loves the flair of the no-look pass or the double crossover. Lucky for him he has the weapons around him that can catch those passes and finish plays. He was very entertaining to watch. One of the highlights of his weekend was a half court buzzer beater to send the game into overtime against Team Takeover

Shane Dezonie Guard (Team IZOD)- Dezonie made the adjustment of playing with IZOD and has taken over. He displayed one of the smoothest perimeter games I’ve seen on the 6th Grade level. He can hit you with the mid-range pull up, deep ball or carry you to the cup. Shane scored 16 in their showdown with Team Glory and 18 in their semifinal win over Team Takeover  He was one of the main reasons they made it to the championship round.

Zion Bethea Guard (Team IZOD)- Bethea came up big for IZOD in their showdown versus WACG. The lefty took over the game in the second half and helped carry them to victory. He had a hot streak of scoring when the game was at a stalemate. Earlier in the tournament he went nuts on the Boston Titans with 22 markers. 

Elijah Everett Forward (Team IZOD)- We might be looking at one of the best 6th Grade prospects in the Garden State. The lanky forward is just developing but you can see that he does have some skill set. I like his touch on his turnaround shot and offensive rebounding ability. On defense he has good timing on his shot blocking and active on the glass.

AC Showcase 7th Grade Top Performers Part 2

Khyree Temple (Team Final)

The 7th Grade Division has some serious ballers and some tight games. Here’s Part 2 of the top performers at the AC Showcase. 

AC Showcase 7th Grade Top Performers Part 2

Khyree Temple Forward (Team Final)- This season Temple has been performing well under the radar but after the AC Showcase I think his cover has been blown. The kid was a monster in America’s Playground while helping them to the final four. He was determined on the glass while collecting rebounds from everywhere. In terms of scoring he had a field day including a 28 points outburst against WACG in their featured pool play matchup. Not many players on this level can match his motor. It’s ironic he wears #33 because he reminds me of a miniature Antwan Jamison during his North Carolina days.

Shawn Johnson Guard (Team Final)- The linebacker looking guard used his strength to impact the game this weekend. He often carried defenders to the basket while finishing through contact. What makes him tough on this level is that he also hit the glass and helps on the boards. Johnson has some good wiggle in his game for a player his size.

Fahmir Ali Guard (Team Final)- Ali still marvels me with his ability to score. He’s not the tallest or the quickest but he gets buckets from everywhere. He now has the floater working in his arsenal which is important when the defense closes out on his jumper quickly. His feel for the game helps him stay afloat against the superior athletes.

Tyger Campbell Guard (WACG)- Yes Campbell got busy on the 7th Grade level while guiding WACG to the final four. This explosive guard takes more of a scoring roll with this group. He hit up the Hilltoppers Heat for 23 points and clipped Expressions with 17 markers. He just plays the game at a different speed then his peers in 7th Grade.

Lance Jones Guard (WACG)- Campbell’s backcourt mate also showed his had some game. I like his poise and feel for the game when handling the pill. He also can fill it up from the perimeter. He knocked down 4 treys on his way to 23 points in their loss to Team Final. He’s definitely a name I will keep in my prospect rolodex.

Shawn’Ke Knight (WACG)- Knight is an athletic bruiser inside. He rebounded with abundance and patrolled the lane for the Tennessee boys. He brings an intimidating attitude to this crew of players. The type of player every good team needs to get the job done.

Matt Cross Forward (Expressions)- Matt's size helped him impact the game against Team Final. He nailed 4 treys and ended with 20 points in their loss. I look forward to seeing how he develops over the next year. 

Dontae Scott Forward (Team Nelson)- Losing Mikeal Jones has hurt Team Nelson title collections but it has helped Scott turn into a promising prospect. He now plays the game more free and isn’t afraid to make a mistake. The lanky forward also has developed more leadership skills while understanding their success falls on his shoulders.

AC Showcase 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1

Justin Moore (Team Takeover)

The 7th Grade Division has some serious ballers and some tight games. Here’s Part 1 of the top performers at the AC Showcase. 

AC Showcase 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1 

Justin Moore Guard (Team Takeover)- The Moore effect was on display again in AC. His presence makes them a national championship caliber squad. This weekend Moore dominated the AC Showcase. His body control and scoring ability cannot be matched on this level. He plays the game at his pace and no one can speed him. Once he gets into the lane he’s strong enough to bust through any secondary defense and crafty enough to finish difficult shots at the rim. Right now there’s no 7th Grader in the region more productive than this kid.

Terrence Williams Forward (Team Takeover)- Williams had a solid outing in AC. I think the size of the court affected his game because he couldn’t draw the opposing big man away from the basket. But the lack of room didn’t stop him from being productive in the paint and hitting the glass. He averaged close to double figures in caroms for the weekend.

Anthony Harris Guard (Team Takeover)- When Harris enters the game TTO goes to another level on both ends of the floor. His penetrating style applies a lot of pressure to the defense because he can score or create for teammates. On the other end he’s a ball hawks with the strength to manipulate the movement of opposing ball handlers.

Josh Watts Guard (Team Takeover)- Watts showed me some spark especially in transition. He runs the floor like a deer and will finishes very quickly. TTO has a good group of prospects and I think this kid has a chance to be one of the special ones when it’s said and done.

Tyler Brelsford Guard (Team Takeover)- I expected Brelsford to be effected with the narrow court but he figured it out. He was smart enough to stay away from the double teams and still run the show. His clutch lay-up down the stretch helped them defeat rival DC Premier in the championship. He had an efficient weekend.

Evan Buckley Guard (DC Premier)- Buckley runs the show for this rejuvenated bunch. He rarely turns the rock over and does get involved with the scoring load. One of his weapons is his trey ball. If you leave him open he will definitely make you pay. His presence has helped the Mitchell twins turn the corner.

Makhi Mitchell Forward (DC Premier)- Makhi looks more comfortable on the perimeter and more aggressive with his play. This aggression had him lead the team in scoring including 17 points vs. Team Final, 18 markers against Metro Flyers and 15 points in the finals against Team Takeover. He has to be regarded as one of the wing players in this class.

Mahkel Mitchell Forward (DC Premier)- The other Mitchell twin did most of his damage playing defense and crashing the boards. He also has turned the corner in terms of aggression and discipline on the floor. His high scoring game was 15 points against a big Metro Flyers team.