Basketball Spotlight Clash For The Cup 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1
Antonio Sellers
The Basketball Spotlight Clash For The Cup 7th Grade Division produced a new champion and featured some of the top teams and players in the region. Here’s Part 1 of our Top Performers.
Clash For The Cup 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1
Antonio Sellers Forward (Gauchos)- The combo forward showed why he’s ranked high on every scouting service in the country. He’s a constant matchup problem from most defenders. Sellers can wiggle around big forwards or back down and shoot over smaller guards. He has total confidence in his ability and isn’t afraid to take the big shot or make the game winning play. He showed top notch scoring ability with 22 points versus the Playaz and nailing 4 treys on his way to 25 markers against Team Final. He also impressed us with his court vision.
Cam Rodriquez Guard (Gauchos)-Kam was also a killer for the Choz over the weekend. He handled a lot of the point guard while also finding the time and spots to get his own buckets. Rodriquez has always been a gamer on the Spotlight circuit and proved us right once again this weekend as he made several big plays that helped the Choz win the championship.
Knasir McDaniel Guard (Guachos)- The Baltimore Native made a surprise visit and made the most of his trip. He grew a few inches which stood out and allowed him to impact the game more. When he wasn’t shooting the outside shot he was driving to the cup and finishing while absorbing contact. He looked good with this crew and expect him to return at times.
Francisco Mattei Guard (Gauchos)- Mattei continues to make the transition to the perimeter. He was very impressive in transition when finishing off plays. He demonstrated good body control when scoring over shot blockers. He also has shown improvement in his ball handling and playmaking ability. He goes hard each and every time he steps on the floor.
Joe Medlin Forward (Gauchos)- We remember Joe from his days with the NY Rens and he still seems dominant in the middle for the Gauchos. He has no problem establishing deep position on the blocks and converting. He also isn’t afraid to step and nail a trey ball if the situation is right. He had a breakout game of 22 points in their battle against Team Final.
Xavier Edwards Forward (Gauchos)- While most players care about getting buckets Edwards is willing to do all the other things to help his team win. He can guard multiple positions while also sticking his head inside to grab a few boards. He’s a glue player that every team needs.
Willie Rivera Guard (New World)- Rivera is a dynamic scorer especially in the open floor. He had the ball handling, body control and skill set to get buckets all weekend. He’s definitely one of those players that have a great nose for the cup. He’s a natural scorer. He pumped in 23 points in the semi-finals and 14 in the championship.
Henry Adissa Forward (New World)- The big forward was a pleasant surprised as he hit the boards hard, challenged shots and even got some buckets on the offensive end. He has a high motor and seems to be at a good place in terms of his offensive development. He will be a player we must keep an eye on.
Rodney Rice Guard (New World)- Rice can flat out shoot the rock as he showed in the finals nailing 3 trey balls. But I also like the way he handles the rock when he’s in point guard mode. He has the height and the strength to be an effective guard on this level. He plays the game with good poise and production. Rice also got hot during the finals nailing 3 treys on his way to 15 points.
Isaiah Arnold Guard (New World)-Arnold is a bucket getter from the mid-range and at the cup. He helps generates the offense on the defensive end by getting steals and forcing turnovers. He looked his best in transition and slashing to the basket in the half court set. His scoring was vital to New World reaching the finals. He tallied 16 markers in the semifinals.
Amir Dade Guard (New World)- Dade was one of the primary ball handlers. The southpaw can get in the lane when he wants and made good decisions most of the weekend. He understands show to use the many weapons that this New World possesses.
