The 3rd Annual Basketball Spotlight Future Phenom Camp Registration Ready To Go!

The 3rd Annual Basketball Spotlight Future Phenom Camp Registration has begun. This year’s camp will once again feature some of the top players in America. When it comes to exposure no other camp in the country brings this kind of coverage. Make sure you register early because this event will sell out once again. Registration information is below. 

Event: Basketball Spotlight Future Phenom Camp 
Date: August 27th and 28th 2016 
Place: District Heights, MD 
Grades: Rising 3rd Grade Thru Rising 8th Grade (Class of 2026 Thru Class of 2021) 
Price: $259.00 Per Camper (Includes; Skills, Games and Full Uniform) 

Click Here To Register 

Click Here For Camp Coverage History

Atlantic City Showcase Official Mixtape!

The Basketball Spotlight Atlantic City Showcase had some of the best talent in the region. America’s Playground Showdown was definitely a dandy. The official mixtape is below and features some of the top players at the event. Thanks for the support and we will see you guys at the Memorial Day Classic May 28th and 29th in Neptune.

Diary Of A Baller: Bryan "Trey" Hall (Hartford County, CT) Entry #2

Trey Hall Showing Versatility

Hello Basketball World!, 

Trey Hall signing back in for Week 2 of my basketball diary. I hope all of you had a productive and blessed week since my last entry. I want to take the time in this entry to highlight one of the major themes in my life and the lives of most student-athletes: time management. Even though I had this past week off from school for April vacation, I was probably busier than I am when school is in session. Each day I had an agenda to accomplish, and it took good time management skills to make sure those things got done. In between my daily tasks, I wanted to make sure I took the week to focus on conditioning each day. It's definitely important to stay in the gym and get through drills and put shots up, but it's just as important to make sure you're conditioned well to have stamina in games. 

One On One Feat. Terrence Clarke (Expressions)

Terrence Clarke (Expressions)

Terrence Clarke gave us a lot to talk about during the AC Showcase. The fluid guard seems to be headed for stardom in the New England area. We decided to sit down and talk to him. 

One On One Feat. Terrence Clarke 

AJ Hoggard Selects Archbishop Carroll High School!

AJ Hoggard

The top point guard in the region and one of the best in the country AJ Hoggard has decided to attend Archbishop John Carroll High School in Wayne, PA. Hoggard has been a long time Basketball Spotlight standout and currently runs the point for Nike Sponsored Team Final. This season he starred in the Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic and Clash For The Cup among other events. 

Hoggard was pursued by several top programs but decided Carroll was the best spot for him. “I chose Archbishop Carroll because the Philadelphia Catholic League has some of the best basketball in the country. I also feel that playing against the best will help elevate my game” said AJ. 

Basketball Spotlight would like to congratulate AJ and his family on his high school selection. Stay tuned as we bring you more high school selections from top 8th

AC Showcase Highlights: Byers Goes Hard In The Paint!

Cameron Byers (B'More United Thrill)

A huge reason for B’More United Thrill’s success at the AC Showcase was the inside play of Cameron Byers. The power forward used his strength to carve out points in the paint. He was a constant match-up for players all weekend. When he’s clicking like this it’s very hard to defeat the Baltimore squad.

What Did We Learn At The AC Showcase?

The AC Showcase was a great event and we got a chance to see some of the best talent in the region. Here is what we learned from our weekend in America’s Playground. 

What Did We Learn At The AC Showcase?

B’More United Thrill Makes Statement! 
B’More United Thrill came to the AC Showcase with a chip on their shoulders. They felt like they needed to earn respect and they proved it by running the through the event. They played like a high powered squad while defeating some of the top teams in the region. They have definitely established themselves as the strongest program in Baltimore and making a run for the top spot in the DMV.

Team IZOD #1 In America! 
Team IZOD 7th Grade made things look easy at the AC Showcase. They feature some of the top players in the country. They play both ends of the floor with discipline and effectiveness. I haven’t seen every 7th Grade team in the country but it’s hard for me to imagine a squad being better than these boys. Too bad the AAU Nationals doesn’t matter as much anymore because I believe they would be the favorite to win it.

Class 2022 Players Make National Names 
Three players in the 6th Grade used the AC Showcase to make a huge splash. First we have Jaden “Lil Penny” Bradley who turned out the event. He’s one of the smoothest players to come through the Spotlight in a while. Then we had Ronald Greene from New Heights that showed enormous potential while leading New Heights to the final four. We will be watching his development the next few years. Finally we have Darik Whitehead from the Hilltoppers Heat, no other 6th Grader in this tournament put up numbers like this kid. He could be a star in the making.

Introducing Terrence Clarke 
One of the players that impressed us the most at the AC Showcase was Terrence Clarke of Expressions Elite. The lanky wing guard has the total package and looks like he has a high ceiling. I loved his feel for the game and he seems to be the next big name coming from the New England Area. He has the chance to be ranked very high in the country this fall.

WE R 1 Makes A Run 
When the schedule was released many didn’t give We R 1 a chance to make a deep run. But the Delaware based squad didn’t get the memo. They knocked off a few good teams until their run ended in the finals. This was also done with their best player who was out with an injury. I guess the word is out about this bunch now.

Diary Of A Baller: Bryan "Trey" Hall (Hartford County, CT) Entry #1

Trey Hall and Jayson Tatum 

Hello basketball world! 

I'm Bryan Hall III or "Trey" as most people know me, and I'd like to welcome you all to the first entry of my Basketball Spotlight "Diary of a Baller". I'm both excited and honored to be chosen by Basketball Spotlight to share a little about who I am and the hard work I put in to be a well-rounded person, student, and athlete. 

Connecticut born and raised, I am a small forward for the New York Lightning. As I write this, I’m a little tired from all the games our team played this weekend at the House of Sports in New York. When all was said and done, we beat some pretty good teams to win the tournament; shout out to my Lightning teammates for playing together and supporting one another. It was a big weekend for basketball in New York, with the Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) having its first stop in Brooklyn this year. After my team and I finished our games on Saturday, we all had a chance to go down to the Cruise Terminal and watch some games. I've been fortunate enough to go to a few EYBL events over the years and I have also had the chance to experience the Peach Jam last summer. This is always exciting for me as I am able to see the platform and level of talent I hope to compete in next year. The EYBL allows me to see and meet some of college basketball's next stars. Watching this level of competition motivates me to stay focused, always remain in the gym, and succeed at maintaining good grades if I ever want to play on this circuit one day. My parents do a great job of helping me stay on track as they support me in all that I do! 

This introduction entry will be short, but as the week's go by I hope my diary does more than just detail my day to day activities as a student athlete. I hope I can motivate and inspire other readers by showing how God, academics, service to your community, and character all help on the basketball court and in life in general. It's my April vacation this week, so I'll have plenty of time to rest, workout, and catch all of you up on my daily activities. I want to again thank Mr. Mike Melton and the Basketball Spotlight staff for this opportunity. I'll catch up with you all next week! 

Signing off until then! 

Instagram: @trey_hall2020

AC Showcase Highlights: Jaden "Lil Penny" Bradley Does It All!

Jaden "Lil Penny" Bradley

Jaden Bradley came to the AC Showcase and stole the show in the 6th Grade Division. He played the point and did a good job setting up teammates and scoring himself. He has the size and ability to be a top notch player down the road. His play lead EA GC Ballers to the Championship. Introducing Jaden “Lil Penny” Bradley.

Jordan Toles Spotlight Mixtape!

Jordan Toles (B'More United Thrill)

This season we have seen Jordan Toles develop his total basketball game. He went to work on the Spotlight circuit helping Baltimore United Thrill make deep runs and eventually win the AC Showcase. Take a look at his season mixtape.

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Best Of The Best and All-Tournament Team

The Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Division gave us a look at a bunch of fresh faces. Here’s a look our Best Of The Best and All-Tournament Team. 

AC Showcase 6th Grade Best Of The Best 

Best Performer: Jaden Bradley (EA CG Ballers)- Many players in the past used this event to introduce themselves to the nation and Bradley was next. The lanky lead guard showed an all-around game including scoring, passing and rebounding. The scary aspect is that he is nowhere near his full potential. We might have another budding star in this kid. 

Best Playmaker: CJ Riley (New Heights)- Riley used his playmaking ability to lead NH to the final four. He was able to breakdown the defense and get buckets for his teammates and himself. He is a rising guard to keep an eye on in the region. 

Best Floor General: Jaden Johnson (National Select)- Johnson used his leadership to guide the All Star squad to the final four. His strength makes him difficult to keep out of the lane. I also like the way he surveys the floor. 

Best Scorer: Darik Whitehead (Hilltoppers Heat)- Whitehead has the look of a top notch prospect and scores the rock with ease. He led the tournament in scoring while coming close to 30 points in one contest. He gets buckets at will. 

Best Prospect: Ronald Greene (New Heights)- Greene passes the look test and also got things done on the floor. He’s capable of playing both inside and outside effectively. We might see the next big name in the New Heights stable. 

Best Versatility: Francisco Mattei (Courtmasters Elite)- Mattei made another strong push for POY. He showed he could score inside against any competition. He one of the toughest in the region to contain in transition. 

Best Fresh Face: Jordan Marsh (EA CG Ballers)- Marsh pushed the rock in transition and ran well with Bradley. He can handle and create his own shot. I also like the flair he brings to the game. 

AC Showcase 6th Grade All-Tournament Team 
Jaden Bradley (EA CG Ballers) 
Jordan March (EA CG Ballers) 
Shane Fernald (EA CG Ballers) 
Paris Gattis (EA CG Ballers) 
Harrison Alexander (EA CG Ballers) 
Francisco Mattei (Courtmasters Elite) 
Jaquan Sanders (Courtmasters Elite) 
Lacey Howard (Courtmasters Elite) 
CJ Riley (New Heights) 
Lemar Fulmore (New Heights) 
Ronald Greene (New Heights) 
Christian Lewis (New Heights) 
Antonio Hamlin (National Select) 
Jarace Walker (National Select) 
Jaden Johnson (National Select) 
Spencer Joyner (National Select) 
Darik Whitehead (Hilltoppers Heat) 
Zion Cruz (Team IZOD) 
Marcus Gaffney (Team RIO National) 
Mason Piorkowski (Team RIO National) 
Joe Medlin (NY Rens) 
Zatai Townsend (NY Rens)

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 7th Grade Best of the Best and All-Tournament Team

The Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 7th Grade Division had some of the top players in the region. Here’s a look at our Best of the Best and All-Tournament Team from the event. 

AC Showcase 7th Grade Best Of Best 

Best Performer: Trey Patterson (Team IZOD)- Patterson stepped up big in Atlantic City. The 6’7 wing forward showed his all-around game while scoring and making plays with ease. When he is clicking it’s hard to say it’s a better 7th Grader in America. 

Best Playmaker: Shane Dezonie (Team IZOD)- Dezonie’s play making ability has risen and its noticeable. He got anywhere he wanted on the floor and made Atlantic City his personal playground. His stock is on the rise. 

Best Floor General: Jayden Pierre (NY Dragons)- Pierre had a good outing with the NY Dragons. He showed confidence in his game and in his decision making. His leadership helped his squad make it to the final four. 

Best Shooter: Everton Browne (NY Dragons)- Browne proved to have a good stroke over the weekend. He had deep range and accuracy when he let it go. If you try to play zone he can stretch the defense. 

Best Fresh Face: Max Ragusa (Learners Always Win)- Rugusa made this best of his appearance in AC. He stepped up on the main floor against the eventual champion Team IZOD. He showed toughness and a unique skill level. 

Best Scorer: Jayden Brown (Team IZOD)- Brown caught fire over the weekend for Sports U. He can nail the outside shot or wiggle to the basket. He put up buckets for the NJ squad. 

Best Versatility: TJ Morris (NY Rens)- Morris is someone interesting to see and he showed it in Atlantic City. His size and athleticism to get it done on both ends of the floor. I really like this kids upside. 

AC Showcase 7th Grade All-Tournament Team 
Trey Patterson (Team IZOD) 
Shane Dezonie (Team IZOD) 
Tristan Jeffries (Team IZOD) 
Jayden Brown (Team IZOD) 
TJ Morris (NY Rens) 
Brent Bland (NY Rens) 
Sterling Jones (NY Rens) 
Jayden Pierre (NY Dragons) 
Everton Browne (NY Dragons) 
Marcus Dryer (NY Dragons) 
Jarule Biddle (NY Rens) 
Jakhi Parinello (NY Rens) 
Malique Pringle (NY Rens) 
Jalen Hammonds (Hilltoppers Heat) 
Max Rugusa (Learners Always Win)

AC Showcase Highlights: Trey Patterson Popping In AC!

Trey Patterson (Team IZOD)

Trey Patterson of Team IZOD (Sports U) is one of the top 5 prospects in his class and he lived up to most of the hype at the Atlantic City Showcase. Patterson showed improved range and footwork over in Atlantic City and showed why he is considered one of the best players in his class. 

 

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 8th Grade Best Of The Best And All Tournament Team

The Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase gave us the chance to check out some of the top 8th Graders in the region. Here’s a look at our Best of the Best and All-Tournament Team. 

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 8th Grade Best Of The Best 

Best Performer: Cameron Byers (B’More United Thrill)- Byers inside dominance was in full effect all weekend. He used his size and score and snatch rebounds while leading B’More United Thrill to the championship. 

Best Floor General: Adrian Baldwin (B’More United Thrill)-Baldwin ran the show for the champions and made sure all their scoring threats got the rock when they needed it. He was able to force his will when needed. 

Best Playmaker: Kareem May (Brooklyn Rens)-May not only ran the show but also scored the rock as the Brooklyn Rens made it to the final four. He’s one of the toughest guards in the country to contain. He’s no longer under the radar and should be recognized as a national level guard. 

Best Prospect: Trey Hall (NY Lightning)- Hall combines the size and game that translate to the next level. He’s a natural for his position and continues to develop his perimeter game. The best is yet to come for this kid. 

Best Fresh Face: Terrence Clarke (Expressions Elite)- This kid’s smoothness caught our attention early and often. He’s silky smooth and can score from all three levels. The X could have a budding star in this kid. 

Best Shooter: Keshaun Hammonds (WE R 1)- Hammonds showed some range at the AC Showcase which helped his team reach the finals. This kid can really stroke the rock. 

Best Scorer: Kieves Turner (RIP City)- Turner scores the rock like we breath. He has that natural instinct that you can’t teach. He’s capable of turning on the scoring switch any time. 

AC Showcase 8th Grade All-Tournament Team 
Cameron Byers (B’More United Thrill) 
Jordan Toles (B’More United Thrill) 
Caleb Dorsey (B’More United Thrill) 
Adrian Baldwin (B’More United Thrill) 
Keshaun Hammonds (WE R 1) 
Hakim Byrd (WE R 1) 
Ahmir Harris (WE R 1) 
Jamir Watkins (WE R 1) 
Kareem May (Brooklyn Rens) 
Myles Foster (Brooklyn Rens) 
Andrew King (RIP City) 
Kieves Turner (RIP City) 
Dapree Bryant (RIP City) 
Trey Hall (NY Lightning) 
Posh Alexander (NY Lightning) 
Quran McPherson (NY Lightning) 
Noah Farrakhan (NJ Playaz) 
CJ Wilcher (NJ Playaz)

AC Showcase Highlights: Ace Baldwin Brings His Game!

Ace Baldwin (B'More United Thrill)

Adrian Baldwin showed off his great feel for the game at the 2016 Atlantic City Showcase where he helped his Baltimore United 8th grade team win the orange division championship. Baldwin has the court vision, speed and explosiveness to be one of the top 100 players in the country. This kid is on the rise.

AC Showcase Highlights: Dezonie Doing His Thing!

Shane Dezonie (Team IZOD)

Shane Dezonie has shown vast improvements in his game over the last few years. During the AC Showcase he showed his full arsenal. He got to the cup anytime he wanted and finished strong. He also showed court vision and play making ability. Check out his video from America’s Playground.

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 3

Dark Whitehead (Hilltoppers Heat)

The Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Division featured some fresh faces and teams. Here’s our final look at the top players from the AC Showcase. 

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 3 

Darik Whitehead Forward (Hilltoppers Heat) – Whitehead put together one of the best performances that we saw all weekend. He put the game on his back and almost single handedly beat a stacked New Heights team in the Quarterfinals. He played a lot of point forward and attacked the basket either in the half court or in transition and finished well with either hand. Darik was a menace on the glass and his long frame allowed him to be a defensive stopper. He also converted a high percentage of his free throws. With continued development you should be hearing his name for years to come. He finished the game with 24 points and double digit rebounds.

Zion Cruz Guard (Team IZOD) – Zion has good size for a combo guard. He can fill it up in the scoring column and he gets it in a variety of ways. Scoring comes easy to him and he scores from all three levels in addition to the FT line. If needed Cruz has good enough ball handling and passing ability that he can play the PG but he is at his beat when his job is to score that rock.

Mason Piorkowski Guard (Team Rio National) – This kid is a competitor and a great leader. He makes up for his lack of size with his toughness and heart. He locks up on defense always guarding someone bigger than him and he has no fear either attacking the lane and shooting a floater or passing to an open man. He also has no problem hitting a long range 3 pointer.

Marcus Gaffney Forward (Team Rio National) – Gaffney is a patient player that always seems to make the right play when we are watching him. He looks so composed on the court. He does most of his damage from the high post either finding an open teammate or scoring himself. Marcus also rebounds the ball well for his team.

Joe Medlin Forward (NY Rens)- Medlin once again turned in a good weekend. He’s a true force in the paint and continues to improve offensively while showing good touch. On defense he alters shots and hits the boards like a mad man. He averaged double figures for the weekend and should be considered one of the best forwards in the country.

Zatai Townsend Guard (NY Rens)- Townsend is one of the leaders of this squad. He brings an experience to the court and he showed it during the AC Showcase. I like how he handles the rock and makes plays. He’s has that hardnosed play and swagger that NYC guards are known for. He doesn’t back down from no one.

AC Showcase Highlights: Gray Lights Up The Scoreboard!

Gray Goes For 39!

Travis Gray Of Gym Ratz Syracuse has proven to be one of the best scorers in the region. His scoring prowess was on full display down at the Atlantic City Showcase. During this event they clashed with area rival Albany City Rocks and Gray exploded for 39 points. Check out his work on the video below.

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 2

CJ Riley (New Heights)

The Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Division featured some fresh faces and teams. Here’s part 2 of our top performers from America’s Playground. 

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 2 

C.J Riley Guard (New Heights) – Riley runs the New Heights team and he puts you in the mind of a Russell Westbrook PG. He has nice size and strength and can handle ball pressure with no problem. He understands how to facilitate for his teammates but he is at his best when he is looking for his own shot. He is very fast and aggressive and we saw him use retreat dribbles, finish with his left hand and knock down trey balls. He led his team to the Semifinal.

Lemar Fulmore Guard (New Heights) – Lemar is also a nice size guard that plays on the wing. We saw him drive hard to the cup and finish with either hand. He competes on the defensive end and rebounds from the guard position well. He can move over to the point for short periods but right now his main job is to score and defend and he plays his role very well.

Ronald Greene Forward (New Heights) – Right now Greene is the best prospect and go to guy on this New Heights team. He always seems to be around the ball and he had the biggest rebound to seal the game that we watched. In the future we see this kid moving from the paint to the wing. Ronald already can attack off the bounce from the wing and he knocks down his free throws at a high percentage with a nice looking stroke.

Christian Lewis Forward (New Heights) – Where Greene is more a finesse forward Lewis is the power forward. He likes to mix it up inside but he also has the ability to catch it at the high post or short corner and attack the rim off of one or two dribbles. He gets a lot of rebound put backs and isn’t afraid to do the dirty work to help his team win. Christian also has a nice stroke for the FT line.

Antonio Hamlin Forward (National Select) – Hamlin is a wing that probably had the best motor we saw all weekend and his athleticism matches the motor. He is a scoring machine as he put up big numbers all weekend. He excels at attacking the basket or finishing in transition. With great size we feel you should being hearing about this kid for years to come.

Jarace Walker Forward (National Select) – A physically opposing combo forward Walker can play inside or outside at a high level. He can grab a rebound and lead the break or be a finisher on the break. At this level Jarace is a very versatile player. When he has the ball coming at you with a full head of steam no one is stopping him getting to the basket.

Jaden Johnson Guard (National Select) – Johnson is a big throwback PG that has a high IQ and understands how to control the tempo of the game. He is a proven winner that sacrifices for the team’s sake in order to get the “W”. Jaden can score from all three levels and facilitate for his teammates. He also understands down the stretch in a tight game what play needs to be made and he is definitely an extension of the coach on the floor. 

 Spencer Joyner Guard (National Select) – Joyner is a quick shifty guard that scores in a variety of ways. He can knock down the jumper or floater and finishes well in transition. He seems to always be in attack mode and he brought additional energy to pair up with Hamlin in the up and down style that they wanted to play. He scored a game high 18 points in one of their wins.

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 1

Jaden "Lil Penny" Bradley

The Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Division featured some fresh faces and teams. Here’s part 1 of our top performers from America’s Playground. 

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 1 

Jaden Bradley Guard (EACG Ballers) – Bradley was hands down the best player in the 6th grade division. His feel for the game, basketball IQ, and court vision were next level and he already understands how to get his teammates involved or when he needs to take over the game. He has great size for the PG position and he does something that very few players at any level do and that is throwing the “Lead Pass”. These lead passes account for many easy buckets for his team. He is also one of few players that could record a triple double at the middle school level. Jaden’s complete body of work potentially has him vying for the #1 player is the class. He reminded me of a baby Penny Hardaway, therefore say hello to Jaden “LIL Penny" Bradley.

Jordan Marsh Guard (EACG Ballers) – Marsh is Bradley’s running mate and although he is small in stature he is a fierce competitor. This lefty knows how to score the ball. He loves attacking the basket and he also can knock down the jumper. Jordan shoots a high percentage from the free throw line and he seems to always be out in transition finishing off of one of Bradley’s lead passes.

Shane Fernald Forward (EACG Ballers) – Shane is one of the many big forwards that contributes for this squad. He is very active on defense grabbing rebounds and clogging the lane making it difficult for opposing offenses. Fernald has a nice stroke from the mid-range and finishes at a high percentage around the basket.

Paris Gattis Forward (EACG Ballers) – Paris is another tall forward that can play either at the high or low post. He has good hands and can score in the painted area. Gattis can guard either of the frontcourt positions and helps the team control the boards where they rarely lose the rebounding battle.

Harrison Alexander Forward (EACG Ballers) – Harrison is also part of the Ballers huge front line. He plays hard on both ends of the floor and helps his team control the backboards. Alexander gets his scoring opportunities from rebound put backs and drop off passes from his elite guards.

Francisco Mattei Forward (Courtmasters Elite) – Different team same result. Mattei has been a fixture on the Riverside Hawks and they seemed to always end up in the championship. This weekend running for his new team Mattei led them to the chip where they fell short to last year #2 team in the country. Francisco is a strong bodied forward that can do a little bit of everything. He is very unselfish and makes the right play. Right now he is at his best when he is mixing it up inside finishing around the basket and he is pretty much unstoppable in transition.

Jaquan Sanders Forward (Courtmasters Elite) – Sanders is a mini Draymond Green. He plays a lot of Point Forward for his team. He has a high IQ and can get the defensive rebound and push the rock. With a good handle he can create his own shot or drop a dime to one of his teammates. Jaquan has a pretty stoke from 3 point land as we saw him knock down numerous threes throughout the weekend.

Lacey Howard Forward (Courtmasters Elite) – Howard is a long athletic forward that is all over the place on the court. He can guard 4 positions on defense which shows his versatility and he has a really high motor. When watching he seemed to always be around the ball either grabbing a crucial rebound, getting a put back basket or finishing in transition.

Toles Plays Above The Rim At The AC Showcase!

Jordan Toles (B'More United Thrill)

Jordan Toles has shown he is one of the most athletic players in the region. Down at the AC Showcase he broke free and finished with a thundering two handed dunk. Stay tuned as we will release his full mixtape.

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 7th Grade Top Performers Part 2

Jayden Pierre (NY Dragons)

The Basketball Spotlight Atlantic City Showcase 7th Grade Division gave us a look at some of the top regional players in the Class of 2021. Here’s another look at our top performers. 

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 7th Grade Top Performers Part 2 

Jayden Pierre Guard (NY Dragons)- Pierre came over from the Hilltoppers and made an immediate impact at the AC Showcase. Not only did he run the point but he showed the ability to knock down the outside shot including 3 treys against We R 1 and also had a good outing versus his former team. He stepped up down in America’s Playground.

Marcus Dyers Forward (NY Dragons)- Dyers provided a wing scoring punch for the NY bunch. He showed the ability to get to the hole and also convert at the charity stripe. He averaged close to 9 points a game. His best game was a 15 point outing against Hilltopper Heat. I like his versatility.

Everton Browne Guard (NY Dragons)- Browne proved he could shoot the rock from the off guard spot. He nailed 3 treys against We R 1 to help them to the victory. He provides a good 1-2 punch with Jayden Pierre. 

Jarule Biddle Forward (NY Rens)- Biddle was a major reason why NY Rens made it to the final four. The forward lead the way in scoring for the NY squad and was consistent all weekend. His play inside was a tough matchup for the opposition all weekend. 

Jahki Parrinello Guard (NY Rens)- Parrinello is the outside sniper for this bunch. He has no problem setting up and burying the trey ball. He is the outside punch that the Rens need to spread the defense. He has the stroke to keep his team in the game. 

Malique Pringle Guard (NY Rens)- Pringle had a good outing down in Atlantic City. He got out into the open floor and made things happen. His best point total game was a 13 point outing against We R 1. He’s a vital part of this squad. 

Jalen Hammonds Guard (Hilltoppers Heat)- Hammonds is a physical guard that used his explosiveness to get the job done. He knows how to put pressure on the defense but scoring from the mid-range, at the cup and the charity stripe. He brought great energy and intensity to this event. 

Max Rugusa Guard (Learners Always Win)- Rugusa showed his worth in their quarterfinal scare versus Team IZOD. The combo guard had the mid-range working and demonstrated the toughness to score in traffic. He seemed to be comfortable on the big stage and didn’t back down. He finished the game with 16 markers.

Noah "The Don" Farrakhan Showing His Work In The Spotlight!

Noah "The Don" Farrakhan (NJ Playaz)

Noah Farrakhan of The New Jersey Playaz is probably one of the most underrated basketball papers in the class of 2020. His versatile style of play makes it difficult for any defender to defend and the kid seems to score the ball at will. He can get into the lane at any time and can even finish in transition with dunks and finger rolls.. Noah’s play earned him a nickname, Noah “The Don” Farrahhan.

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1

Trey Patterson (Team IZOD)

The Basketball Spotlight Atlantic City Showcase 7th Grade Division gave us a look at some of the top regional players in the Class of 2021. Here’s our first look at the top performers. 

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1 

Trey Patterson Forward (Team IZOD)- During the weekend and especially in the championship game Patterson showed why he’s considered the top player in the nation. The 6’7 forward handled the rock like a point guard and also showed he could make decisions. On the scoring tip he used his size to get his mid-range shot off any time he wanted and also showed range on his jumper. He finished the championship game with a team high 23 points. When he’s grooving like this he separates himself from the rest of his peers.

Jayden Brown Guard (Team IZOD)- Brown came to play when the game mattered the most. His ability to score on all three levels was on full display. I like how he maneuvers within the offense and picks his spot to score. He’s gets it done play either guard position but will likely reside as a point guard in the future. He tallied 16 points against NY Dragons in the semifinals and another 14 markers in the championship victory over the Rens.

Shane Dezonie Guard (Team IZOD)- Dezonie’s stock continues to rise each event he plays in. He was very explosive especially in the open floor. He’s beginning to make more plays involving teammates off the dribble. He’s one of the best two- way players in the country and seems to be only getting better. As he continues to stretch out in size his ceiling will also get higher. He averaged 13 points a game and lived at the charity stripe.

Tristan Jeffries Guard (Team IZOD)- Jeffries once again showed he does whatever needed for the team to get the win. Sports U didn’t need him to fill up the scoring column this weekend so he did the other things like defend, hit the glass and run the floor. Like Dezonie, he doesn’t mind guarding the opposing team’s top player.

TJ Morris Guard (NY Rens)- I just love watching this kid play and can see him having a tremendous future. He’s hard to guard because he can score it from everywhere and hasn’t even touched the surface on his athleticism. His versatility was evident against the other Rens squad in the semifinals when he dropped 20 points including 3 treys and 6 free throws. 

Sterling Jones Guard (NY Rens)- Jones was a consistent contributor all weekend. He tallied 12 points in their semifinal victory against Rens (Harris). In the finals he started out hot against Team IZOD by nailing a couple of treys in the first half. He showed a lot of fight. 

Brent Bland Guard (NY Rens)- Bland found the hot hand in the semifinals by nailing four treys. His ability to stretch the defense allows the lane to open and penetration opportunities for this NY Squad. I can’t wait to get another look at him during the MDC.