Introducing Benjamin Todd!

 Benjamin Todd 

Benjamin Todd is a Top 10 player in the Class of 2020 Basketball Rankings. Somehow the 6'9 7th grader has remained under the radar and hasn't received a ton of attention. Ben Todd has great vision, a reliable outside jump shot, and is remarkably smooth and coordinated. At the ACES Coca Cola Nationals Benjamin Todd played one game for the West Coast All Stars against the Oakland Soldiers. This short highlight video is from that one game. Look for more videos coming soon from MSHTV West.

Super Skillcase Coming In November

The Super Skillcase is directed by world-renowned skills coach Micah Lancaster and is a one of a kind of exposure event with Mike Melton's Basketball Spotlight. The Skillcase features the same advanced teaching and instruction that he offers to all of his NBA, college, and high school All-Americans, but broken down to a form that all players can handle. Micah will be unveiling new curriculum at this event that he used with Karl-Anthony Towns and Jeremy Lin this summer. All players receive Micah's innovative skill training and teaching techniques which is designed to make players feel like they are alone in the gym with Micah. Players will also have competitive 5-on-5 games in the afternoon under the watchful eye of Mike Melton's Basketball Spotlight. Special features of the 2015 event include a high resolution portrait and action photo shoot, Under Armour gear, and the convenience of Hoop Group Headquarters in Neptune, NJ. The event is for players 5th grade through 9th grade. Be there and "skillcase" your talents while improving your skills like never before! 

All details can be found at www.skillcase.org or email us at micahlancaster@optonline.net. Team and group discounts available.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

P2Bball Goes Inside The NYBL Situation!

P2 Bball has been one of the most controversial websites since they launched. Their editor doesn’t mind writing with a little edge. Recently the NYBL changed leadership and P2 Bball got the scoop. Here’s a look at the explosive article they put together about the situation. Very in depth. 

Click Here To Read!

Meechi Johnson Loves To Munch On The Competition!

Meechie Johnson (Ohio)

Meechie Johnsonn came to the Future Phenom Camp to show the nation what he was made of. The Ohio native wasted no time attacking some of the best guards in the country. He poise and court savvy cannot be overlooked by his ultimate swagger and confidence on the floor. He left the event as one of the top guards in the building and was definitely worth the price of admission. This kid has a bright future and I look forward to watching him get busy well into the future

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LeBlanc Leaps Into Stardom!

Isaiah LeBlanc (Texas)

Isaiah LeBlanc was one of the smoothest players to step foot into the Spotlight Future Phenom Camp. The wing guard showed he could stretched the defense with the trey ball and enough off the dribble to get to the tin. His dad is an UConn alum and has great size so if that is any indication we might have a budding star in the making. I do love that fact that LeBlanc goes to all the major event to compete against the best and isn’t afraid to put his name on the line. Stay tuned because this kid has an enormous upside.

J'yare Davis Is On Fire!

J'yare Davis Is Blowing Up!

J’yare Davis has become the hottest name on the middle school level. This legit wing showed his skills out at the Buckeye Prep Showcase. Right now it’s a serious bidding war over his services for this season. He has to be considered one of the top prospects in the country and will have a chance to be #1 when we release our rankings.

Future Phenom Camp Baby Baller Profile: Chance Mallory (Virginia)

Name: Chance Mallory 

Position: Scoring Guard 

Home State: Virginia 

Class: 2024 

Breakdown: Mallory has a mean ratchet and will pull it from anywhere. I liked his moment on the floor and his fundamentals for such a young age. He caught fire in a few games I watched and showed he could hang with some of the best players. His smoothness earned him a trip to the camp’s All Star Game.

Future Phenom Camp Baby Baller Profile: Davon Grant (New Jersey)

Name: Davon Grant 

Position: Scoring Guard 

Home State: New Jersey 

Class: 2024 

Breakdown: The Charles Barkley type became a crowd favorite as he bullied his way to the hole and finished in the line. He quite light on his feet and maneuvers well for a player with his size. He can handle the ball and has a good feel for the game. I like the way he pushed the rock up and floor and made things happen.

Future Phenom Camp Baby Ballers Profile: Jahkary Towns (Michigan)

Name: Jahkary Towns 

Position: Point Guard 

Home State: Michigan 

Class: 2023

Breakdown: The Grand Rapids native worked tirelessly in the drills and he poured over on the floor. He has a slick handle and scores the rock from anywhere on the floor. He’s small but has an effective step back dribble move. He also understands how to create space off the dribble. He’s constantly in attack mode and doesn’t back down from challenges.

Future Phenom Camp Baby Ballers Profile: Anthony Saunders (New York)

Name: Anthony Saunders 

Position: Combo Guard 

Home State: New York 

Class: 2024 

Breakdown: The kid with the long ponytail was very impressive on both ends of the floor. He’s more effective driving right and finishing with floaters. I also saw him shooting the long ball and kicking the rock to open teammates. On defense he was a pure hawk. He pressured the rock the full 94 feet and caused numerous turnovers. He plays the game with a lot of energy.

Breaking News: NYBL Co-Founder Severs Ties to Youth Basketball League

Rob Taylor Leaves NYBL

COLUMBUS, OH. (September 15, 2015) - With the conclusion of the NYBL all-star games this past weekend, Buckeye Prep Report Founder, Rob Taylor has severed all ties with the National Youth Basketball League, and will no longer have any involvement with the day-to-day operations of the 3-year old league. Although Taylor is extremely proud of his role in taking a raw idea, selling the vision of the league to coaches, then spearing heading significant growth over the past years, he has concluded that it is now time to move on and to focus on further strengthening the Buckeye Prep Report brand. 

Anybody who knows anything about Rob Taylor and the Buckeye Prep Report knows that he and his events are synonymous with integrity, fairness, passion and organization. In the wake of the Elite Basketball Circuit (EBC) debacle, and being unwilling to comprise his principles and risk tarnishing his hard-earned reputation, Taylor has decided to step away from a league in which he was instrumental in building and managing. “I would like to thank all of the players, coaches and parents who helped in the realization of the vision, while simultaneously playing a role in “changing the face of middle school basketball!” said Taylor.

Super Skillcase Returns In November!

The Super Skillcase is directed by world-renowned skills coach Micah Lancaster and is a one of a kind of exposure event with Mike Melton's Basketball Spotlight. The Skillcase features the same advanced teaching and instruction that he offers to all of his NBA, college, and high school All-Americans, but broken down to a form that all players can handle. Micah will be unveiling new curriculum at this event that he used with Karl-Anthony Towns and Jeremy Lin this summer. All players receive Micah's innovative skill training and teaching techniques which is designed to make players feel like they are alone in the gym with Micah. Players will also have competitive 5-on-5 games in the afternoon under the watchful eye of Mike Melton's Basketball Spotlight. Special features of the 2015 event include a high resolution portrait and action photo shoot, Under Armour gear, and the convenience of Hoop Group Headquarters in Neptune, NJ. The event is for players 5th grade through 9th grade. Be there and "skillcase" your talents while improving your skills like never before! 

All details can be found at www.skillcase.org or email us at micahlancaster@optonline.net. Team and group discounts available.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

PLAYTIME PANTHERS TRYOUTS COMING OCTOBER 3RD

PLAYTIME Tryouts: 
Saturday 
Oct. 3rd 9U/10U @9am 
11U/12U @11:30am 
13U/14U @2pm 
Only committed candidates need apply. 
OPEN TRYOUTS. Roster selection Oct 10th. 
Practice begins soon after. 

Location: 
250 Colonial CT 
Teaneck NJ 07666 

Preseason Teach Me Classic League begins Nov 14th so hurry and tryout, sign up and get better right away with the most competitive home-based hosted league NJ has to offer. This is not a "Pay for Play" program. We are an "Earn your Play" program. 

PLAYTIME Basketball (Bergen County based program) have been on top of their game since 2008 and have rostered the most competitive Middle School teams since it's inception and rosters 3 HS teams in the Spring for Live Period participation. Early interested candidates, email FatherKnowBest@gmail.com and check our website for more details. www.PlaytimeBasketball.com The name sticks, the environment is great, and a family orientated atmosphere is the best you can get in the North East Region. 

P - Persistent 
L - Learning 
A - Athletics 
Y - Youthful 
T - Tenacious 
I - Intense 
M - Motivating 
E - Environment

Future Phenom Camp Baby Baller Profile: Daveyon Lynder (Maryland)

Name: Daveyon Lynder 

Position: Point Guard 

Home State: Maryland 

Class: 2024 

Breakdown: Lynder stepped up at the Future Phenom Camp and dominated the competition. The savvy point guard glided through the defense and was a magician in transition. He hooked up teammates on the move and finished off plays himself like a seasoned veteran. Defenders tried trapping Lynder but to no avail. His handle was too crisp and moves were too swift. Though he’s very young Lynder seems to be on the right road.

Future Phenom Camp Baby Baller Profile: Christian Bliss (New York)

Name: Christian Bliss 

Position: Shooting Guard 

Home State: New York 

Class: 2023 

Breakdown: Bliss has a smoothness to his game that cannot be denied. He was able to score using good body and absorbing contact. He has good size for this level and a skill set that allows him to get anywhere he wants on the floor. Christian is capable of going on a quick scoring spree at any time. He has an all-around game which should take him far in this sport.

Future Phenom Camp Baby Baller Profile: Samartine Bogues (Maryland)

Name: Samartine Bogues 

Position: Point Guard 

Home State: Maryland 

Class: 2023 

Breakdown: Bogues AKA “Fat Man” has developed quite a following during his young basketball career. 60 Minutes Sports followed him to the Future Phenom Camp and he didn’t waste their time. The explosive guard had his way with the opposition by driving past them and finishing tough in the lane. His court vision and feel for the game stands out. He should have continued success during the AAU season with newly formed Team Thrill.

Future Phenom Camp Baby Baller Profile: Khoi Thurmond (Illinois)

Name: Khoi Thurmond 

Position: Point Guard 

Home State: Illinois 

Class: 2023 

Breakdown: After a stellar performance last year Thurmond returned to the camp with a target on his back. The Chi-Town guard didn’t shy away from the challenge instead he stood tall and took on all comers. Thurmond has take over the game ability in terms of scoring and making teammates better. His games were packed with spectators and none of that fazed the tough point guard. He once again finished as one of the top players in the camp.

Future Phenom Camp Baby Baller Profile: Sebastian Robinson (New Jersey)

Name: Sebastian Robinson 

Position: Combo Guard 

Home State: New Jersey 

Class: 2023 

Breakdown: Robinson took home MVP honors after leading his team to the championship. His coach Junior Burroughs praised Robinson on how the big guard used his size and skills to dominate the weekend. He could play either guard position well and had strong poise for a player this young. We will be keeping tabs on this youngster. Stay tuned.

Basketball Spotlight Road To The Grand Finale Announced

The Basketball Spotlight Road To The Grand Finale return for the 2015-16 season. The circuit information is below registration will begin for you to register for the events. Remember these events sell out quickly so don’t take too long to register. 

Basketball Spotlight Road To The Grand Finale

Tip Off Classic 
Date: December 5th and 6th 
Ages: 4th Grade Thru 8th Grade 
Place: Neptune, NJ 
Cost: $375 (Per Team) $325 (Multi-Team)

Clash For The Cup 
Date: January 30th and 31st  
Ages: 2nd Grade Thru 8th Grade 
Place: Neptune, NJ 
Cost: $375 (Per Team) $325 (Multi-Team)

Atlantic City Showcase 
Date: March 26th and 27th  
Ages: 4th Grade Thru 8th Grade 
Place: Atlantic City, NJ 
Cost: $375 (Per Team) $325 (Multi-Team)

Memorial Day Classic
Date: May 28rd and 29th 
 Ages: 4th Grade Thru 8th Grade 
Place: Neptune, NJ 
Cost: $400 (Per Team) $350 (Multi-Team)

Grand Finale 
Date: June 18th and 19th  
Ages: 4th Grade Thru 8th Grade  
Place: TBA
Cost: $250 Per Team 

Future Phenom Camp Class Of 2022 Top Performers Part 2

Robert Martin (Missouri)

The Basketball Spotlight Future Phenom Camp Class of 2022 brought an enormous amount of talent to Boyd, Maryland. Here’s our second look at this class and who played well in Maryland. 

Future Phenom Camp Class Of 2022 Top Performers Part 2 

Robert Martin Guard (Missouri)- Martin arrived from the “Show Me” state and showed the Spotlight what he was made of. This kid is ultra-quick with a ton of game. He weaved through the defense Chris Paul style and either scored or delivered the rock on time. His poise and demeanor on the floor stood out. He drove past defenders like a blur and was a difference maker all weekend. His game reminds me of Louisville guard Quentin Synder when he was this age.

Nikkos Kavanes Forward (Virginia)- Kavanes was one of the most dominant scorers to come through this event. He had back to back games in which he scored in the high 20s. He too strong and skilled on this level for most youngsters to slow him down. Once he gets going downhill he’s like a runaway freight train.

Sammy Scott Guard (Maryland)- Scott brought the excitement to this event with his slick ball handling and flaring game on the floor. He has the supreme shake and bake in his game including a low dribble that makes him difficult to strip. Once he gets to the cup he understands how to maneuver his body to avoid shot blockers. As he gets more mature in his game he will learn to trust his teammates a little more.

Carlos Lopez Guard (New Jersey)- A few years ago at our Skillcase we stated that Lopez had a good skill set but needed to develop his confidence. Fast forward to the Future Phenom Camp and Lopez now possesses the swagger to match his game. The lefty displayed the ability to play both guard positions and had stretches when he scored the rock. He could be the next nice guard coming from the South Jersey area.

Jonathan Lamothe Guard (Maryland)- Lamothe is a powerful wing player that knives his way through the defense. He’s a typical slasher that’s strong enough to finish through contact. I like how he looked in transition and on the defensive end of the floor.

Gionn Swann Guard (Maryland)- Swann is a no nonsense type of guy. He has a good handle and a quick trigger. He goes hard on both ends of the floor and doesn’t seem to be out there trying to make friends. He plays the game very intensely and with passion. I look forward to seeing him on the AAU circuit this season.

Lorenzo Perez Guard (New Jersey)- The Garden State guard leaves all the glitz and glamour for others and he gets the job done with substance. He set the tempo for his squad and used the drive, draw and dish technique effectively. His play earned him an entry in the All Star Game.

Future Phenom Camp Class Of 2022 Top Performers Part 1

Sonny Johnson Jr. (Ohio)

The Basketball Spotlight Future Phenom Camp Class of 2022 brought an enormous amount of talent to Boyd, Maryland. Here’s a look at the players in this class that stood out. 

Future Phenom Camp Class Of 2022 Top Performers Part 1 

Sonny Johnson Guard (Ohio)- No player in the class entered this event with more national attention than Johnson. His name rang bells from events all around the country. Down in Maryland Johnson added Basketball Spotlight to his list of fans. The point guard has a clean game and moves with the smoothness most kids dream of. He scores the ball from anywhere on and breaks down defenders with ease. But if I have to say one aspect of his game that caught my attention I would have to say his court vision. This youngster has the enact ability to see the game two or three plays ahead of his competition. He will hit teammates with laser passes from any angle. His overall feel for the game is tremendous for a player this young. He also proved he was a winner as he led his team to the camp championship.

Jarace Walker Forward (Pennsylvania)- Regarded as one of the best players in the country, Walker didn’t do anything to hurt his stock. This kid has a game similar to Kentucky great and former NBA Jamal Mashburn. He has the size to be effective at the forward slot but also handles the pill like a guard. He also knows how to create space off the bounce which could also led to a step back trey ball. If he keeps working hard the sky could be the limit for this kid.

Jaden Bradley Forward (North Carolina)- The Carolina product used this stage to introduce himself to the rest of the country. Bradley like Walker packs size and versatility from the wing position. He puts it on the deck and is a handful near the cup. What’s even scarier is that he hasn’t come no-where he potential and could be a valuable prospect in a few years. He was one of the most explosive players at this event. He had a memorable battle versus Walker.

Tyler Hawkins Guard (New York)- Hawkins came to Maryland with a mission and accomplished his goal. Someone gave this kid a pep talk about being aggressive because he was in attack mode as soon as he got out of the car. Hawkins used a slick NY handle to get past defenders while finishing with floaters and scoop shots in traffic. He also would hit the occasional pull up jumper. He improved his stock and put his name on a national radar.

Francisco Mattei Forward (New York)- Mattei is a powerful forward built like a linebacker. He handles enough to bust through the defense and finish at the cup. He plays the game with a high motor and is a constant force on the glass. His strength and aggressiveness was a major force at this event and on this level. His play helped his team take home the title.

Dylan Williamson Guard (Maryland)- Williamson teamed with Johnson and Mattei to lead Florida to the crown. He’s a versatile guard that likes to score the ball and apply pressure defense full length of the floor. He has good size for his position and should only prosper as his days of basketball move forward. 

Tyrone Hardy Forward (North Carolina)- Hardy is an intriguing prospect from North Carolina. The long and lanky forward doesn’t have full control of his frame yet which means his ceiling is high. On defense he alters shots and rebounds well for his position. On offense he’s still developing and beginning to put moves together.

P2Bball and DMV Preps At It Again!

Basketball Spotlight Future Phenom Camp had a several media outlets in the building. DMV Preps and P2Bball were the building and have released more features from this event. Check out the features below.

P2Bball 

Basketball Spotlight Future Phenom Camp 2021 Class Positional Rankings

BIG TIME COVERAGE FROM TOP MEDIA OUTLET GET ME RECRUITED

Top National Stars Make Huge Statement at Basketball Spotlight Future Phenom Camp (Class of 2024)

NEW STAR WATCH: A Blissful Performance at Basketball Spotlight Future Phenom Camp Puts Name on National Radar

DMV Preps 

Corey Barnes A Dues Paying Member of the “Ball So Hard” Club

Hunter Dickinson – Proves He’s Destined For Future Greatness

Future Phenom Camp Class Of 2021 Part 2 (Fresh Faces)

Meechie Johnson (Ohio)

The Basketball Spotlight Future Phenom Camp Class 0f 2021 came with a ton of talent. As we continue our coverage we will take a look at the players that made their Spotlight debut. 

Future Phenom Camp Class Of 2021 Part 2 (Fresh Faces) 

Meechie Johnson Guard (Ohio)- Johnson has made a name for himself in the Midwest including becoming a Youtube sensation. But when I saw him live in Maryland he showed me he was the real deal. He worked well off the pick and roll while displaying the ability to finish at all three levels. Johnson has confidence flowing through his veins and it shows with his play on the court. His swagger was through the roof and he earned his East Coast props. One of my favorite players to watch over the weekend.

Jayden Brown Guard (New Jersey)- Straight out of the Garden State Brown immediately got my attention at the Future Phenom Camp. He had good size and could maneuver around smaller guards. Once he got into the lane he would score in traffic or look for teammates. He also has a nice ratchet in which he shoots off the dribble or from spot up position. If anyone made a splash that weekend it was the kid from the Garden State. 

 Kevin Miller Guard (Illinois)- Miller is another point guard with national rep from his head to head showdowns with some of the best. He enjoy attacking defenders with an array of dribble moves. He’s crafty with the pill and does show some quickness. Defenders must wrap their ankles tight when trying to guard him because he could shake you out of your shoes.

Julius Ellerbe Forward (Maryland)- Ellerbe showed tremendous spunk and explosiveness on the floor. He’s a good finisher and made his living being a slasher down the lane. He’s capable of attacking from different angles and looks his best when he’s playing under control. His developing skills, high motor and potential size makes him an intriguing prospect down the road. 

Caleb Furst Forward (Indiana)- The Indiana prospect dominated on both ends of the floor. He understood his bread and butter so on offense he posted deep in the paint. Once he received the rock and wasted little time getting to the cup. He has good touch and developing footwork. On defense he closed down the lane with good lateral movement and proved to be a capable shot blocker. He lived up to the national rep he entered this event with.

Christopher Ford Forward (North Carolina)- Ford was a constant contributor all weekend. Right now he’s more of a four and trying to become a legit three. He used this quickness to get things done on the baseline and in traffic. I also like the way he banged the boards for caroms. As he make his way to the perimeter will have to extend his range and work on his ball handling.

Darius Tilghman Forward (Maryland)- In the long term Tilghman might leap frog many of the other players in this event. His still sort of raw which is a good thing because he’ no-where near his potential. The southpaw has good explosive finishing moves and can also get it done on the defensive end of the floor. He looked like a miniature CJ Fair. 

James Madill Guard (New York)- Madill is a sharp shooting guard that isn’t afraid of launching the rock from anywhere. His mid-range game was on display and he showed the ability to get away from defenders off the dribble. He played with good confidence in this hostile environment.

Marcus Moore Forward (Canada)- Moore's coach marveled about how he displayed an unselfish mentality in this camp setting. Moore didn’t mind making the extra pass, playing defense or getting that tough rebound. Meanwhile he still was able to contribute offensively to his team’s success. He set the model that more campers should follow. 

Karell Booker Guard (Maryland)- Booker is a tough nose guard with a solid approach to the game. He enjoys hitting the gaps and making the defense collapse. He sees the floor very well and can also get his shot off whenever he needs. He’s another backcourt prospect from the loaded DMV area.

Jalen Hammond Forward (New Jersey)- Hammond showed power and athleticism during his play. He has no problem above, around or through defenders. He’s a player that loves the transitional type of game and thrives in the open floor. Camp type of settings are usually condescend to Capo’s type of game. 

Elijah Hawkins Guard (Maryland)- Being one of the smallest guards in the building didn’t stop from stealing the show at times. He has deep range and will tickle the twine in the half court set or in transition. He went up against some of the top guards in the country and stood tall.

Future Phenom Camp Class of 2021 Top Performers Part 1 (Usual Suspects)

Donnell Harris (Florida)

The Basketball Spotlight Future Phenom Camp Class 0f 2021 came with a ton of talent. In our first look into this group we will talk about the top players that are familiar to the Spotlight scene. 

Future Phenom Camp Class of 2021 Top Performers Part 1 (Usual Suspects) 

Donnell Harris Forward (Florida)- After finishing #1 in the camp last year Harris could have been in relaxed mode or even stayed away from this event. But instead the native of the Sunshine State put his title on the line and once again dominated the competition. Harris was too much to handle inside as he scored with ease and controlled the glass. But what really caught my eye was his improved ball handling, range and play making ability. I can clearly see that this kid has been putting the work in at the gym. His transition to the wing seems to be a lot sooner than later.

Zion Harmon Guard (Washington, DC)- Harmon can’t go anywhere without a target on his back. At the outset Harmon didn’t seem motivated to play against his class but when he saw opponents gunning for him “The Lion” woke up and took notice. A bona-fide scoring machine, Harmon showed the ability to finish from anywhere and unlimited range. He also has the knack to turn up is effort at a drop of the dime.

Ryan Conway Guard (Maryland)- Conway entered this event with a chip on his shoulder. I wanted to finish as the #1 player for his class even though he came up one spot short he still had a spectacular weekend. He has expanded his game from just being a spot up shooter, now he’s comfortable breaking down defenders. He improved handle also comes with court vision and better decision making. He played with extreme fire during this event.

Shane Dezonie Guard (Pennsylvania)- Dezonie made his first appearance in the Class of 2021 and dominated. The big guard scored through traffic and in transition. He even came close to throwing it down on the break. He packs an impressive offensive package. Next season he will be difficult to contain on the AAU circuit.

Trevor Keels Forward (Maryland)- Keels has developed his ball handling and uses it to dance pat defenders and finish at the tin. He has a wide frame and has the body control to maneuver around shot blockers. Once he gets on a scoring streak he’s tough to low down.

Brayon Freeman Guard (Maryland)- One of the best floor generals in the region had a chance to open up a little more at the Future Phenom Camp. He had a few games where he lit up the score boards. I like his natural feel for the game and the way he turned up his play when needed. Next season we look for him to step into the forefront of DMV floor generals in this class.

Khalil Brantley Guard (Georgia)- The bulldog type point guard was in attack mode all weekend. He makes it his business to get into the teeth of the defense and finish with a floater or draw and dish. This kid possesses one of the best handles in the country and I willing to compete against any opposing guard in America.

Ahmad Harrison Guard (Maryland)- Harrison has all the tools you need in a basketball player and he showed that at the Future Phenom Camp. He uses his height to pass or short over smaller guards and can it done with the rock or from the wing position. His versatility also stood out in transition where he converted with ease. He’s one of the smoothest players in the region.

Tristan Jeffries Guard (New Jersey)- Jeffries brought his all-around game and physical style down to Maryland for this event. He’s one of the best finishers around and has stepped up his game on the defensive end. Tristan knows how to use his body to finish through contact. He proved he could get it done on this stage.