Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1
Derik Queen
The Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Division had some fierce battles. Here’s Part 1 of our top performers.
Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1
Derik Queen Forward (Team Thrill)- Queen was perhaps the best prospect in the building for the Class of 2024. Standing at least 6’6 the forward handles the rock and not magic Johnson style but facing defenders and getting rid of them. He also has good touch and all three levels. Finally, he sees the floor well and is a constant playmaker.
Nigel James Guard (Team Thrill)- James was a great pickup for this squad. The scoring point guard is capable of setting up teammates but also can fill it up himself like he showed in the championship. James went to work from the perimeter knocking down several jumpers including two treys on his way to 16 points. He was very exciting to watch over the weekend.
Daquan Davis Guard (Team Thrill)- Another deep bomber was Davis. He was very accurate and confident from long range over the weekend. The Team Thrill guards used the drive and kick method to get Davis open and he delivered. He tallied 14 points in the finals including two treys.
Tyler Jackson Guard (Team Thrill)- This quick combo guard attacks the rim like Dion Waiters. He’s athletic and has bounce while driving the lanes and finishing. He can hit the outside shot but looks better when he’s getting to the tin. He finished with 12 markers in the finals.
Nas Simmons Guard (NY Gauchos)- Simmons put on a show this weekend at the Tip Off Classic. He cooked defenders from all three levels. He torched the Playaz for 28 points and dropped 22 in the final’s loss to Team Thrill. I love his stroke from the perimeter but also his play making. He nailed two treys in the championship.
Johnuel Fland Guard (NY Gauchos)- Fland played good alongside Simmons. He’s game is sort of similar but he’s a little smaller. Fland has good driving skills and can also knock down the outside shot. His quickness helped the Gauchos make it to the finals.
Eric Mesa Forward (NY Gauchos)- Mesa was the facilitator of the squad. He had good size and used it pass over defenders mainly to Simmons and Fland. He also was active on the defensive end while playing the passing lanes and taking parts on the boards.
Jadyn James Forward (NY Gauchos)- James was active inside on both ends of the floor. On defense he was able to guard several positions and hit the glass. On offense he was a matchup problem as he used his quickness to get past post defenders. He was a good energy player for the Choz.
