The Basketball Spotlight Tip Off Classic is in the books. We had a lot going on in Neptune, NJ. Here are some of the interesting storylines from that weekend.
What Did We Learn From The Tip Off Classic?
AJ Dybantsa carved his name as one of the top players to come through Basketball Spotlight events. This is a pretty decent list including NBA players Karl Anthony Towns, Michael Gilchrist, Dion Waiters, Kyle Anderson Jr., Donovan Mitchell, Malachi Richardson, Darius Garland, PJ Dozier, Marvin Bagley Jr, and Nazi Reid among others. Dybantsa seized the moment to show his prowess especially in the championship game where he displayed all facets of his arsenal. The sky is the limit for this humble kid and we have no doubt that he will reach his potential. The X has been blessed with a good one in AJ.
Team Final sent their entire middle school program to the Tip Off Classic and impressed us dearly. Their 8th Grade group made the final four, 7th Grade group won the championship and their 6th Grade squad lost in the finals. Stephen Ashley-Wright spearheaded the 8th Grade bunch while budding stars Tyler Sutton and Jett Harrison guided the 7th and 6th Grade squads respectively. Director Rob Brown should be proud of this bunch. BTW those uniforms are fire!
The Legacy Lives On!
DPS Success 2029 Has Something Brewing!
Every three to four years rumors swirl the NJ Legacy formerly NJ Playaz program is done. But the Paterson, NJ not only keeps going but also make doubters eat their words with impressive showings. The Tip Off Classic proved that as their 8th Grade bunch beat a few good programs before losing to Expressions Elite in the finals. Richie Rosa and Mason Santiago is a tough duo that should take NJ Legacy program into their next generation.
Basketball Spotlight has had its share of nice baby baller squads over the years and DPS Success 2029 needs to be added to this list. This squad had the crowd buzzing with their play and execution level for players at such a young age. Their play had one veteran coach say “ I had to go home and look through footage to try and break their matchup zone”. If this group stays together they could have something great for years to come.
