AC Showcase 8th Grade Top Performers Part 2

Ja'Quaye James (Playaz)

The Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Division of the AC Showcase featured some of the best talent in the country period. Here’s a look at Part 2 of the top performers from the AC Showcase. 

AC Showcase 8th Grade Top Performers Part 2 

Ja’Quaye James Guard (Playaz)- I wanted to see how James would hold up against the national heavyweights and he impressed me. I’m convinced that no grammar school player in the country can stop this kid from getting into the lane. He had the defenders on skates and led his team to a victory over G3IE, one of the top defensive teams in the country. Ja’Quaye also has picked up his scoring and isn’t afraid to challenge the giant trees in the paint. This boy has that rock on a string. Finally his court vision and pass first mentality is very throwback and a lost art. 

Justin Winston Forward (Playaz)- Winston was definitely in mid-season form for the AC Showcase. He showed a nose for the ball and I like his turn around baby hook on the lane. Justin showed a lot of aggression in terms of rebounding on both ends of the floor. His mid-range jumper was okay but he ran into a little trouble when he stepped out too deep. He has put together a serious campaign this year.

Markquis Nowell Guard (Playaz)- Nowell told me he was excited about playing at the AC Showcase and he showed it with his play. There’s not many in the country that has the scoring knack of Nowell. He will hurt you with the deep trey or climb into the chest of the shot blocker at the rim. I also noticed a tighter handle and better decision making on his part. His game is really coming together.

Armoni Sexton Forward (Playaz)- It was great to see Armoni back in action and he performed well this weekend. He played under control for the most part and was a beast on the glass. He’s a quick leaper and is relentless when trying to get the rock. He was a double-double machine this weekend. Keep up the positive work kid. You belong on the floor.

Kevin Easley Forward (G3IE)- His team had a tough weekend in the superior White Division but Easley made the most of his time. The high motor forward put together some decent showings and his 20 point semifinal performance almost sent home WACG. They lost that game 52-51. I like how hard this kid goes regardless of the score.

Dontay Dixon Forward (WACG)- Dixon plays opposite side of Bagley and handles the weak side rebounding. I like his length and touch from the perimeter. When Bagley is double team he can hit the jumper from the high post or slash to the basket. On defense he’s another legit shot blocker which allows the guards to be extra aggressive on defense.

DeShawn Jenkins Forward (WACG)- Jenkins is an athletic forward that comes in off the pine and sparks the squad. He’s good on help defense and attacking the glass. He does have some range on his outside and will run the floor in transition.