13U AAU Nationals Top Performers Part 1
Jeremy Roach (Team Melo)
The 13U AAU Nationals took place in Greensboro, NC and Basketball Spotlight was in the building. We got a chance to see some of the top players in the country at this event. Here’s the first of many recaps from this event.
13U Nationals Top Performers Part 1
Jeremy Roach Guard (Team Melo)- In the past the AAU Nationals was the launching pad for many new names and now you can add Jeremy Roach to this list. The Potomac Valley lead guard took over this showcase. His body control and ability to get through the defense was un- matched at times. Roach was a huge outing against the St. Louis squad while scoring 40 points and taking over the contest down the stretch. His next victim was Team Loaded in the Elite 8 game as Jeremy went on a 14 straight point scoring outburst to put his team in the Final Four. Later that night he drove coast to coast with 5 seconds left to hit the game winner over the Gauchos and place Team Melo in the National Championship. I’m not sure if AAU gives out a MVP Award but he would certainly get the nod.
Montez McNeil Forward (Team Melo)- The big fella had his moments throughout the weekend. He got good post position and showed good footwork for a youngster this age. He added some scoring punch inside and ended on contest with a triple-double. But on the defensive end he plugged the inside while being the primary shot blocker and rebounder. He showed amazing patience being able to stay out of foul trouble while still being effective. This kid’s upside seems tremendous.
Ryan Conway Guard (Team Melo)- Conway found his shot during the round of 16 and 8. He added the outside touch and scoring ability in transition. When defenses collapsed on McNeil or doubled Roach he made them pay with a strong drive or a trey ball from the corner. His scoring contribution definitely helped them get to the finals.
Trey Galloway Guard (George Hill Rising Stars)- GHRS game versus Oakland Soldiers was featured as the big game of the day and Galloway came to play. First he opened up their defense with 3 long treys. Then when the West Coast squad tried to over play him he attacked the basket and used body control to finish around the rim. He has the unique ability avoid shot blockers while finishing at the tin.
Mike Saunders Guard (George Hill Rising Stars)- Saunders aggressive defensive style had him battling foul trouble but he was still able to help them reach the finals. He’s a true floor general and knows how to pick his spots on offense. He penetrates at will and isn’t afraid to take the big shot. He his three pointer against Oakland Soldiers deflated the defending national champs.
Brevin Jefferson Guard (George Hill Rising Stars)- Jefferson is another tough guard with this group. He plays either guard position and also plays lock down defense. In transition he gets up and quickly and converts in traffic.
Kenny Tracy Guard (George Hill Rising Stars)- Tracy also showed during their showdown with Oakland Soldiers. Not only was a total pest on defense but he nailed a few big treys to that stretched the lead for his squad.
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