William Richardson
The Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Division was loaded top to bottom. Here’s our final look at our top performers.
Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 8th Grade Top Performers Part 4
William Richardson Guard (NJ Playaz)- Richardson has been making a big name in other events and now he wanted to show and prove at The Spotlight. The point guard is lightning quick and gets from end to end in a blur. When you lay off Richardson he can hit the long 3-ball even when the defense closes out. He’s off to a great start for his 8th Grade season.
Desean Lecque Guard (NJ Playaz)- Richardson’s backcourt mate Lecque is another player that’s emerging this season. He attacks the basket from the wing position and has enough in his arsenal to get buckets against anyone. His motor is top notched therefore the coach never has to wonder if he’s going to play hard. His older brother Jalen was also a late bloomer now he’s ranked as one of the best players in America.
Max Regusa Guard (NY Jayhawks)- Regusa opened his game up at the Tip Off Classic. Known as a floor general he unleashed his outside shot which has good range and excellent rotation. Once the defense bit he showed off his drive, draw and dish game. This kid showed some excellent court vision.
Malik Bowman Forward (6th Man Warriors)- The 7th Grader wasn’t bothered by playing up against the competition. He displayed supreme versatility and the ability to finish through contact. He looked like he belonged on this stage against this competition. Bowman is definitely something to watch.
Michael Moore Forward (PSA Cardinals)- Throughout their existence, PSA Cardinals formerly Team Scan has been known to put out big time forwards. We not saying Moore is big time yet but his best basketball is down the road. The long, lanky forward is a capable rebounder and rim protector. We will watch him closely this year as he gets his offensive package together on the blocks.
Richard Nweke Forward (PSA Cardinals)- Nweke is in the same boat as Moore. He’s still a little raw offensively but will hit the glass hard and bang on you off the vertical leap. Right now he’s still a plus on the defensive end by disrupting shots inside and clogging the lane against driving guards.
Asim Jones Guard (Hoop Kingz)- Jones brought his game to the Spotlight. He broke down the defense with a nice handle and ratchet from behind the arc and finishing in traffic. His team didn’t perform as well but James made sure he caught our attention.
Tarique Foster Forward (Wiz Kids)- Foster is a sleek wing forward with a high basketball IQ that understands floor balance and spacing. His tremendous length and wingspan he could develop into a great defensive stopper. Keep an eye on this kid.
Brandon Perez Forward (Wiz Kids)- It seemed like every time I look up Perez was finishing over someone from the wing. The athletic forward that finishes with power above size and he rebounds well for his position. Finally, he also has the ability to create his own shot and space off the bounce.
Tahaad Pettiford Guard (Jersey City Boys Club)- Pettiford played up and stepped up big. The southpaw proved he could score from anywhere and dance around defenders. He displays the JC toughness their guards are known for like Hurley, Dehere and Ingram. It’s always a joy to watch him rock.