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6 Deep Elite Camp Recap. All-Elite Teams

8 Jun

The second annual 6 Deep Elite Camp was held at Kalamazoo College by John Curtis, the founder of 6deepbasketball.com.

First off, a kind thanks to Mr. Curtis for his hospitality and all weekend long.  The entire event was organized and professional.  This camp can and should grow into a destination for players across the Midwest.

Now regarding basketball, the theme of the camp was young talent, particularly at the guard position.  Michigan’s future classes will have no shortage of guards from the Detroit to Grand Rapids

First Team:

Lamar Norman 6’1″ 2018 guard Wyoming Godwin Heights- Norman shared the overall MVP honor with Justin Ahrens.  Norman has the ability to take over the game anytime he wants to by scoring the ball.  Lamar scored a majority of his points in transition.  Receiving the outlet pass, and with burst of speed flew down the court with the ball and finished at the rim with a variety of silky smooth finishes.  Even though Norman is a smaller guard, he still has the vertical ability to consistently dunk the ball.  When he’s not in attack mode, Norman can be a deadly stand-still three-point shooter with the ability to catch fire quickly.  An overall offensive threat with the ball in his hands as an individual scorer.

Brandon Wade 6’1″ 2018 point guard Ann Arbor Skyline- The best true point guard at the camp, as Brandon was able to balance both keeping new teammates happy and score for himself.  He made the case not only as the best guard in the gym but in the state.  To a casual observer, one would think Brandon would’ve played with teammates for several months instead of a few hours.  His ability to attack gaps and seams to get into the paint was his strong suit all weekend.  Brandon has stellar vision, feel, versatile passing ability and IQ for the game.  He’s become increasingly aggressive when trying to score for himself against taller defenders over the past few months, must be because his vertical leap and strength has increased too.  Also one of the best perimeter shooters off the dribble at the camp.  Strong defender as well.

Terrell Tucker 6’1″ 2018 guard Berkley- Tucker put on a show Sunday.  Terrell has the skill and mindset of a wing who just happens to have the ball in his hand a majority of the time.  Terrell did most of his damage on the break of semi-transition situations.  He would come down hit a hapless defender with a combo move, and get to the rim finishing a lay-up or floater with either hand.  Tucker’s jump shot isn’t what is taught at a young age, but it seems to be effective for him.  With his athleticism and slashing ability, Tucker has the potential to become a play-maker not just for himself but for others.

Justin Ahrens 6’6″ 2018 wing Versailles (OH)- The next line of Ahrens is here.  Justin’s older brother, Kyle, is a 2015 shooting guard commit to Michigan State.  And while Justin can shoot the ball like his older brother, he showed he has an all-around game.  With his size, he causes mismatches for opponents on either the perimeter or down low.  He can score from all three-levels, but also has a high understanding of making passes and court awareness.  His body indicates even future growth which only means greater potential.

Nelson McCauley 6’3″ 2018 forward Ottawa Hills- A bid-bodied wing, McCauley caught everyone’s attention with monstrous dunk all weekend long.  He has the type of motor and inside-outside style of play needed to excel given his position and skill-set.  Ottawa Hills should be reloading for a successful upcoming season losing just one starter.

Second Team:

Matthew Richmond 6’1″ 2018 point guard Chandler Park- Compared to Spring AAU tournaments, Richmond stepped up his game and production level, as he played with extreme confidence and poise all weekend.  He wasn’t the star or standout on his team, but he made others around him better.  He created passing lanes in the half-court, gave the ball to opponents at the right time and place, and was tough cover due to playing both guard positions in addition to hitting a few threes here and there.

Malik Jones 5’7″ 2018 point guard East Lansing- It takes a certain degree of confidence for a player to assume a leadership role with unknown teammates, but that is what Jones has.  He sacrifices personal glory for winning.  The ball didn’t become stagnant or glued when he touched it, he made winning plays when it mattered.  He was always encouraging, vocal, and confident which spread over to his team.

Arius Jones 6’2″ 2018 guard Fort Wayne (IN)- Two-end competitor.  Jones took it on himself to guard the opposing team’s best offensive player and generally Arius had success in limiting their production.  Lots of upside with him running with Spiece Indy Heat.

Deric Murray 6’3″ 2017 guard Ann Arbor Pioneer- When Murray gets a step on you going toward the basket with his left hand, it’s usually going to be two points.  At 6’3,” Murray has ideal size for a college level two guard.  He gets most of his baskets based on skill and not individual strength now.  Excels in making a second move after his first move to beat the first defender.  If he hits the weight room in July he will be one to watch.

David Arens 6’6″ 2018 wing Sweetser (IN)- Ozzing potential.  Did a bit of everything this weekend.  Score, rebound, defend.  There’s a lot to like about a players that a soon-to-be sophomore with his size and frame.  With improving ball skills, Arens could become a dominant wing down the road.

Third Team:

Morgan Taylor 6’1″ 2018 combo guard Chicago (IL)- Simply put, shot the air out of the ball Saturday.  If he got an open look from three, more times than not it was going in.  But he also had the hot hand for setting up teammates, either leading directly to a basket or a foul.  Plays with such ease for a guard so young.

Leon Redd 5’10” 2016 combo guard Wyoming Godwin Heights- Redd is a streak scorer, he will get points in bunches.  Played with the ball in his hands more than the high school season.  Can really change the structure of a game down the stretch.

Cedric Benton 6’1″ 2017 guard Ann Arbor Pioneer- Benton is physically imposing with his combination of vertical leap and strength.  Cedric craves contact on both ends of the court.  He rebounds as if he was 7’1″ instead of 6’1,” and isn’t afraid to mix it up when he checks larger opponents.  When he gets going down-hill, Benton will either draw a foul or conclude an and-one.

Payton Harley 5’10” 2018 combo guard Wyoming Godwin Heights- Payton is a threat to score however defender decide to play him.  He can shoot the three, create a mid-range shot off the bounce, or get to the rim.  Doesn’t let things rattle him.  Goes about his business with an even demeanor.

Rylen Grundy 6’3″ wing 2018 guard South Bend (IN)- Perhaps the best individual athlete in attendance.  Grundy has the hops of a forward coming out of the back-court, and he’s powerful when takes flight as well.  Had multiple highlight reel dunk in transition.  His skills will need some polishing up, but there is a lot of potential with Grundy over the course of three years with a developing body and frame.

Fourth Team:

Nate Davis 6’0″ 2018 guard Rochester Stoney Creek- Won’t awe viewers with flash or athletic ability, but is a good complimentary player to a team.  Can stroke it from 15 feet and out, moves well without the ball, and plays hard.  Team Basketball 15u can expect to continue winning at a high level in July.

Suriya Susu 5’10” 2018 guard Kentwood- As a smaller guard, Susu wasn’t afraid to go out and show what he can do.  Changes speeds on defenders, can attack going left, and a solid in-between game.

Lawrence Rowley 6’3″ 2017 wing Ann Arbor Huron- Rowley might have the highest upside out of any prospect in attendance.  Pushing 6’4″ with long lanky arms, Lawrence has yet to define a for sure position yet.  He’s not a shooting guard or a small forward, but he is naturally athletic who happens to have not put all the pieces together.  Thus far, he takes little things from those positions into each game which contribute to his enormous potential.  Had his moments here and there but June should be a month major month of improvement for this Huron River Rat.

Jesse Hillis 6’0″ 2017 guard Caledona- Crafty ball-handler and shot maker for himself going either way.  Solid shooter and scorer.

Caleb Drumm 6’3″ 2016 guard Homer-  Good length, versatility, and skill-set for a small school guard.  Played and defended multiple on the floor.

 

 

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Recapping The 5th Annual Michigan Playmaker Invitational

1 Jun

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The 5th annual Michigan Playmaker Invitational concluded a strong Spring circuit of competition for Michigan teams.

17u Champion: Michigan Warriors

After suffering a ten point setback to Reach on Saturday, it was the Warriors who got the last laugh on Sunday, defeating Hoops Canada by 20 plus to capture the 17u crown.  Rivals during the winter but teammates in the Spring, Belleville’s Mike Bruce and Romulus’ Rashaan Pope were the catalysts on the run to the championship.  Both well-built combo guards, Bruce served as the team’s leading scorer, with finishes at the rim, points in the paint, and was often on the receiving end of Pope’s passes cutting to the basket.  Pope has always had the potential to become a breakout player in Michigan, with his smooth style of play combined with gifted athleticism, and ideal physical tools.  Perhaps this is the tournament that will spring a sense of confidence entering the month of June for Pope’s team and individual camps.

Forwards Samer Jabbo and 6’7″ Logan Ryan also had their moments on the weekend which put the team over the hump.

IMG_067916u Champion: Michigan Playmakers

It was an up-and-down Spring for this 16u team, however, the Spring ended the same way it started, with a championship.  Saturday was no challenge for the team, with wins by 25 plus in pool play.  The first contest on Sunday was a 27-21 gritty affair with a rugged Hoops Canada squad.  Immediately after the first round of bracket play, the team found a sense of rhythm, sparked by Detroit Mumford 6’0″ combo guard Terronie Cook.  Cook, is in his second week of competition with the Playmakers, but quickly found his role on the team.  The lefty caught fire from beyond the arc in both the quarterfinal and semi-final games finishing with multiple three-pointers both off the dribble and catch and shoot situations, and single-handedly was able to put away Flint’s Finest in the semi-final.  There is no sense of fear with Cook, he competes with a confidence and edge on both ends of the court.  Aside from shooting and creating his own shot, Terronie’s strong-suit is defense.  He’s a pest for opponents with a weak handle with quick hands and feet, and does a stellar job of aggressively defending without fouling.  However, he also does the intangibles needed to become a productive defensive player, such as talking and communicating with teammates on defense.  Cook will be one to watch in the month of June.

The championship was a classic example of King 5’7″ point guard Jesse Scarber’s desire to win, 17 points, including several rebounds, steals, and assists.  Scarber might be the shortest player on the court, but there is no one with a bigger heart.  The speedy lead guard has a motor and grit all coaches want in a point guard, first on the floor for loose balls, and diving into the stands to keep possessions alive.  At his best, Jesse is one step ahead of opponents on offense and defense, and makes them react to what he wishes to accomplish instead of vice-versa.   A track-star on the basketball court, Jesse’s speed on occasion gets the best of him at times, resulting in unforced turnovers.  Far from a finished product, Scarber will use the month of June to develop a consistent perimeter jump shot to keep defenders honest, and polishing his pure point guard skills.

IMG_068515u Champion: The Family

The Family has quietly put together a quality Spring circuit.  With appearances in four championship games in Michigan tournaments, while capturing three titles.   The Playmaker tournament was only another example of the dominance on display by Peach Jam bound squad, the closest match-up with a 15 point affair, which does not include wins by 67, 23, and 45 in the final.  The key to their success starts with eighth grader Julian Dozier.  A 5’7″ pass-first point guard, Dozier is quick and decisive when finding ways to attack opponents.  He has high school ready IQ, court awareness and vision needed to excel on the varsity level.  Complimenting Dozier in the backcourt was Romulus 6’0″ guard Rashad Williams, whose consistent three-point and perimeter shooting allowed for spacing and room to operate for Dozier and Loyola’s PJ Mitchell.  

U of D Jesuit 6’0″ guard Elijah Collins was the glue that held The Family together on the weekend.  A bit of a wild-card offensively, Collins made an impact with his staple, defense.  Elijah is debatably the best defender for the class of 2018.  Opponents rarely get pass Collins because he is smart and does not gamble on passes or ball-fakes.  However, Collins made a statement with two highlight reel dunks, one a two-handed alley-oop on the break over a helpless defender, and the other that was just as impressive.  Elijah’s upside is high as he progresses through high school and AAU.

Caden Prieskorn and Byrce Washington are two inside-outside threats The Family can rely on for depth but with no loss of play.

Keep An Eye Out For:

Romeo Weems 6’3″ guard The Family 14u– There might not be a more celebrated 14u player in Michigan than Weems.  And if there was any doubt to whether Weems was just a middle school sensation, Romeo answered that question competing up a grade with his team on the 15u level.  Weems simply stuffed the stat-sheet all weekend long.  Rebounds, steals, assists, blocks, points, all occurred of Weems’ watch.   He might have been the best athlete regardless of age group at the tournament.  He’s both vertically quick and quick off the floor.  Already Romeo has high-major college interest in large part due to his versatility on the floor.  Weems is a classic point-forward in the making with his ball-handling ability for a player his age and position as he continues to fill out his body with strength.  When the ball is in hands, it’s most likely going to result in a play.  If he’s on the wing slashing to the basket, he can easily spot a teammate for an easy two.  Weems didn’t display much of a perimeter game, whether because it was unneeded due of the flow of each game or if it’s something he’s still developing remains up for discussion.

Jacob Brantley 6’0″ guard Michigan Playmakers 15u- Brantley is a point guard that won’t draw college interest because of eye-popping athleticism or flash, he will because he plays the right way.  Brantley is the type of guard a winning team must have, because he sacrifices personal glory for the right play.  He’ll shoot if the opportunity is present, but won’t force the issue.  Throughout the weekend, Brantley was strong with the against opposing team’s pressure, with very few turnovers or poor decisions.  Jacob was also efficient in half-court situations, getting the ball where it’s needed to be but can take it to the rim if need-be.  Two-way competitive player.

 

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Great Lakes Classic Part Three Recap

18 May

Champions:

15u Michigan Gators

16u 1Nation

17u Ohio Basketball Club

Dwight Burton 6’2″ guard Playmakers 17u- Burton continued on a solid month of May at the Great Lakes Classic.  Burton can score, and he does so in bunches.  Tallying double digits in games against the Storm, 1Nation, and Reach.  The Mumford Mustang excels in isolation situations, and creating his own shot.  Burton is very patient about how he sets up defenders.  He hit mid-range pull-up jump shots, floaters, and lay-ups in the lane.  However, Burton also can be a nightmare for opposing guards with a weak handle.  He has quick hands, and is laterally quick.

Miguel Priest 6’5″ forward Playmakers 17u- Priest was full of energy on the weekend.  He’s a unique blend of an inside-outside offensive talent with strength and build.  Priest did most of his damage attacking off the wing with his left hand.  Miguel is physical and initiates contact with opponents, to go along with finishing above the rim on occasion.  Priest also crashes both glasses, and is starting to develop into a consistent shot-blocker.  What position Miguel will play at the next level is yet to be determined.

Spencer Littleson 6’3″ guard 1Nation 17u- Littleson was consistent in every game on the weekend for 1Nation, as it was almost guaranteed he would have 15-20 points and a few threes.  Hit mid-range pull-ups, spot-up threes, and even had a few deadly step-back crossover jump shots.  Does not press or try to do too much on a team with as much individual talent on 1Nation.  Just plays his role.  Rarely made mistakes either offensive or defensively.

Michael Flowers 6’0″ guard 1Nation 16u- Mr. Clutch.  Flowers seemingly scored 20 points per-game with ease on the weekend.  But he also has a flair for the dramatic.  A full-court game-winner with 1.8 seconds left in bracket play on Saturday.  When he keeps his shooting form consistent, Flowers can catch momentum from the perimeter and produce big numbers.

Kareem Murray 6’2″ guard Reach 17u- One of two Western Cowboys for Reach, Murray knows and loves to win.  With as much guard talent Reach has, Kareem did two things on the weekend.  Play aggressive defense, and shoot the three.  Murray displayed a consistent jumper from the perimeter, and does a strong job of keeping his man in-front.  Actually TALKS ON DEFENSE.

Brandon Wade 6’0″ guard Michigan Gators 15u- The Michigan Gators don’t get the chance to play in such high-level tournaments often, but the team did win the 15u gold title, defeating The Family in the championship.  Wade is the piece which makes the Gators go.  Serving as the team’s primary ball-handler, and decision maker.  He has a high IQ and vision which all lead guards must have.  Brandon gets around the court wherever he wants and did not backdown against guards with more notoriety than him.  Good athlete, quick, also has deep range from three, and plays confident.

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Great Lakes Classic Day One Thoughts

16 May

Drequan Bell 6’3″ guard Reach 16u- Bell’s range has steadily deepened the past month or two.  The Allen Academy Wildcat led Reach in their opening game with a team-high 22 points.  Hit timely deep three pointers across the perimeter in the first-half, and then displayed his athleticism with a powerful dunk to close the game.  Also used his length on defense to deflect balls coming off pick-and-rolls for steals.

Dequan Powell 5’10” guard Playmakers 17u- Powell has been one of Michigan’s biggest stock-risers in the class of 2016, as his production has meant an increase in victories for his team.  Powell tallied 15 points in the team’s victory against Detroit Showtime.  Dequan was automatic from 10-15 feet, consistently sinking mid-range jump shots in both halves.  However, one aspect Powell does well for a smaller guard is rebound, offensively and defensively, don’t be surprised if he sneaks in and gets an extra possession for his team.

Thomas Kithier 6’7″ forward/center Mustangs 15u-Faletti- Kithier will have to increase his production if the Mustangs are to continue their dominance in the state for 15u, as fellow front-court mate Jalin Tobias will be out for at least rest of the Spring session.  Kithier did just that in a win against the Warriors.  The Dakota big man caused a great deal of havoc at the free-throw line and in.  His ability to put the ball on the floor or pass from the interior can really space the floor for his team.  Relentlessly attacked offensive and defensive boards, and played quality low-post defense.

Reach 15u Loaded With Guards- Reach consistently has some of the best guards in the state year after year, and their 15u team is no different.  Pershing’s Ron Hill, Chandler Park’s Matthew Richmond, Southfield’s Dave Hearns, and Western’s Anthony Roberts were all vital and had their moments in a blow-out victory against Team Hype.  Roberts provided the bulk of the scoring load, hitting jump-shots off the dribble, and finishing in the lane, while also playing pressure defense with the other three guards to cause Hype problems just bringing the ball up the floor.  This group will be interesting to watch and develop.

Other Standouts:

Richard Talley Playmakers 17u- Talley can be counted on for five to six steals a game, and none other was bigger than his game-winning steal and lay-in with less than five seconds to put the Playmakers up on Showtime.

Chris Rollins and Karmari Newman-  The two shook off less-than average first half performances to propel Showtime into possibly stealing a victory.  Rollins scored 13 in the second-half, while added 12, each adding two threes in the final 15 minutes, while also increasing their defensive intensity in the process.

Jamal Keese 6’3″ guard Reach 16u- Caught the eye of the crowd with an impressive tip-in offensive rebound for a dunk which sealed the fate of the opposing team’s hope of a comeback.  Finished with 15  points in the process.  Runs the floor well for lay-ups, and is consistently gives effort and energy on the defensive end of the floor.

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2015 King James Shootings Stars Classic Recap

27 Apr

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Many of Michigan’s quality non-shoe sponsored teams descended on Akron for the King James Shooting Stars Classic.

Jason Williams 5’11” guard Detroit Stars 16u (Pictured)-

A classic Jason Williams performance this weekend, scoring the ball.  Williams, only a junior, has already scored 1,000 career points, and AAU is no different.  Williams quickly beat defenders off the dribble in the half-court, finishing multiple takes at the rim against taller defenders with either hand.  His jump shot has improved drastically in the course of a year, and should keep defenders honest.

Donnie Tillman 6’6″ forward Detroit Stars 16u–

Donnie was a quality big man last Spring, now Tillman is an elite big man after spending a year at Findlay Prep.  Tillman’s best game was 32 points and eight rebounds.  He is the definition of a mismatch.  Place a larger defender on him he’ll face-up and drive to the basket.  Put a smaller defender on Tillman then he’ll over-power him in the lane.  Starting to play with a consistent motor on both ends of the court, finishing above the rim, while cleaning the glass, and challenging shots.

Jesse Scarber 5’7″ point guard Michigan Playmakers 16u-

His team doesn’t have a primary scorer, and Scarber decided to fill that void Saturday afternoon, 22 points overall.  Jesse plays one step ahead of opponents, he’s strong with the ball, attacks fearlessly to the lane, nimble enough to get through tight windows, limits turnovers, and was rewarded with multiple trips to the free-throw line.  Yet, Scarber’s strength is defense.  He consistently checks the opponent’s best defender the length of the court, and with his quick hands is able to generate steals to go along with anticipating passes.  Was also one rebound away from a double-double to go along with his 22 point outburst.

Daijon Park 6’5″ forward Michigan Warriors 16u-

Parker is quietly having a quality Spring.  After an impressive showing at the Michigan Invitational, Daijon followed up with a solid outing in Akron.  Parker’s not an eye-popping athlete, but he’s very methodical with his impact on the game.  He’s beginning to knockdown face-up free-throw line jumpers consistently, and looks quite natural doing so.  Rebounds his area well, and a promising weak-side shot blocker with improving footwork.

Tre Orr 6’8″ forward Michigan Playmakers 16u-

Orr had his moments throughout the weekend.  Tre has only been playing organized basketball for three years, and the next three years could even better for the Martin Luther King big man.  He’s starting to develop a feel for a back to the basket game, he’ll pass out of a double-team, however will call for the ball sensing a mismatch.  Many of his points we’re second chance putbacks.  With increased live action, his foot speed and athleticism should improve, making Orr a certain commodity come July.

Dequan Powell 6’0″ guard Michigan Playmakers 16u-

Powell at times was the best player on the court Saturday night and Sunday morning in bracket play.  His ability to transition from offense to defense quickly set the pace and tone for his team.  Powell was able to come away with steals and covert those into lay-ups, many of which were finished through contact.  However, Powell can also serve as a team’s glue man.  He rebounds well for a guard, and isn’t afraid to get scrappy down low.

Other News:

Detroit Showtime won the 17u Black Gold division title.  6’4″ East English guard Kamari Newman exploded for 35 points in the effort with various mid-major programs in attendance.

I was able to get a look at Michigan Soldiers 6’7″ forward Danny Pippen of Allen Academy, the first time since the big man was injured in January.  Pippen looks to have grown some since then, he does wear a size 22 shoe by the way.  Overall, Pippen looked comfortable running the floor, rebounding, and attacking defenders off the bounce.  Holds a U of D Mercy offer.

Hoops Canada 17u could easily be mistaken for a college level team.  Seven players suit up over 6’4.”  6’2″ sniper Omar Shiddo, and 6’8″ versatile inside-out Isiaha Mike were the standouts.

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Nike Spring Showdown Day One Recap

11 Apr

Every Michigan team won on day one of action at the Nike Spring Showdown. Here are a few standouts.

Playmakers 17u Shine in Season Opening Debut

The Michigan Playmakers received one of the state’s most coveted point guard prospects, Renaissance 6’3″ junior Justin Turner.  Turner did not look phased or flustered given a new situation or team.  As the team’s primary scorer, Turner displayed he can both shoulder a scoring load and facilitate a game.  He connected on three three-pointers, attacked the rim with trips to the free-throw line, and scored in the mid-range section en route to finishing with 18 points overall.  However, Turner is not self-oriented and plays with poise not too many have for a high school level guard.  He looks to create plays for others before himself.  Justin likes to make good shots better shots individually and for teammates.

IMG_0416Turner was complemented in the team’s 53-30 win against Playground Elite by Southfield 6’5″ wing Miguel Priest (pictured).  Priest was highly active on the night.  Miguel is a unique combination of size, athleticism, grit, and hustle.  He powerfully plays above the rim, and nearly had an impressive tip-in put-back slam that nearly brought the court down.  However, Miguel is a plus rebounder for a wing, offensively and defensively.  The powerfully built lefty is a menace in transition and semi-halfcourt, attacking and was repeatedly rewarded with free-throw line trip opportunities.  Priest is surely one to watch for in the Spring session of the circuit.

Other 16u Playmakers Standout

Trenton Temple 6’4″ Southfield Christian

Temple led the team in a 36-26 victory against Quad City Elite with 10 overall points.  Aside from scoring the most points, it was his overall activity that led Temple to standout.  He isn’t the primary ball-handler, facilitator, or shooter, but he just seems to be around the ball and makes the right plays.  Playing the passing lanes well for deflections, scoring on offensive rebounds, and finishing around the rim with either hand.

Tre Orr 6’7″ Detroit King

Orr continues to progress in the early Spring session.  Orr gained confidence last week at the Michigan Invitational and gradually improved his play as the tournament went along.  Friday Orr made a statement against a vertically superior Quad City Elite team.  Orr showed flashes of scoring in the paint, completing an impressive drop step crossing the lane to the right side of the rim for the layup.   And as his team’s tallest player, most importantly for a George Ward led team, defended without fouling, only one on the night.  It seemed opponents grew tired of receiving Orr’s physicality.  On one play, Orr stood directly in-front of on-coming attacker, stepped out the way, and the offensive player was so stunned he blew a wide open two points.

Baylor Basketball/TMT Sportz

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Michigan Invitational Day One Recap

4 Apr

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Less than a week past the high school season, the travel circuit has commenced.  With less than one week until the first NCAA live period of the Spring, teams look to find continuity among one another prior to viewings from college coaches.

What’s The Hype About?

The opening of every team’s travel season begins with optimism, Hype Athletics is no different.  Team Hype has found a new 17u head coach, local legend Mike Talley.  Talley’s team went 2-0 on the day, with an impressive victory against the traditional respectable Michigan Warriors.  6’5″ forward Jaylin McFadden (pictured) completely dominated the game, pouring in 28 points.  Jaylin has always thrived in the open-court and in transition with his athleticism, but McFadden also expanded his range beyond the arch on the night.  Combined with high-motor and effort, McFadden is going to be one to watch in the travel circuit.

McFadden will pair well with Ypsilanti ’17 5’10” point guard Marlin Talley to give Team Hype a reliable front and back-court presence.

Reach 17u Reloads

Reach every year is one of the premier programs in Michigan, and ’15 is no different.  Reach went 2-0 on the evening in pool play, and appeared unstoppable at times.  The Legends are led by dual-sport star Trishton Jackson.  The versatile 6’3″ guard is just as much a problem on the grid-iron as on the hardwood.  Jackson is complimented by guards Armani Tinsley, and Karim Murray in the backcourt, two competitive Detroit Western Cowboys fresh-off a state championship.  6’3″ Terrance Sewell has a nose for the basket and initiates contact at the rim, and Churchill’s Joan Andoni will be a reliable three-point shooter Reach will use to space the floor.

Up front, Reach could be mistaken for All-State football squad.  6’3″ Jalin Martin, and 6’6″ Alaric Jackson.  Martin, Chandler Park, is a division one prospect at wide receiver, but finishes above the rim on the court and rebounds well.  The 6’6″ Jackson clogs the lane defensively, and can face-up offensively, shoot from the perimeter, and find open teammates from the post.

16u Section Loaded

The 16u division is the most competitive at the Michigan Invitational.

Common Bond has three to four 6’2,” 6’3″ guards/wings they use in their rotation, notably the Huron combination of Alec Anderson and Lawrence Rowley.  The two are highly athletic and active on both ends of the court.  Rowley and Anderson finish above the rim, rebound, and alter shots defensively due to length.

While the front-court for Common Bond is Huron, the back-court is Pioneer.  Cedric Benton and Deric Murray are two guards primed to a big circuit.  Benton is a 6’2″ guard that enjoys attacking the rim in both the half-court and transition, while Murray is an aggressive point guard with a quick first-step to blow past defenders and get into the paint.

The Michigan Warriors have a guard and a forward on the 16u level as well.

Kelvon Merriweather is a freshman, but plays up an age level.  Physically, he does not look reminiscent of a ninth grade, 6’2,” wide shoulders.  Merriweather competes relentlessly with a high-motor and the competitiveness that has become a staple of a Romulus guard.  He should be able to defend both guard positions, and his ability to finish above the rim should bring Merriweather attention from the next level.

6’5″ John Glenn forward Daijon Parker is the anchor of the Michigan Warriors defensively.  Parker moves well laterally for a young post, as he blocked numerous weak-side shots on the night.  Parker isn’t the quickest to get off the floor, but is very methodical with his positioning on the glass.

Other Standouts

Jesse Scarber (Michigan Playmakers 16u)- A joy to coach on the floor.  Only 5’8,” but plays with a bigger heart.  He’s a quick and athletic point guard that does most of his work defensively.  Scarber can defend the opponent’s best offensive player and stay in-front without fouling the length of the court.  In one game, Scarber came away with five steals.  Jesse dives on the floor for loose balls, and anticipates errant passes well.

Derek Jamerson (Michigan Soldiers 17u)- Jamerson continues off a strong high school season at Cornerstone.  At 6’5,” Jamerson is a knock-down catch and shoot three-point assassin.  In one game against Reach, Jamerson connected on three-straight beyond the arch attempts to keep his team within striking distance.  He just needs to see one go through before he catches momentum.

Terrance Bowens (Michigan Playmakers 16u)- A lanky 6’3″ wing, Bowens showed flashes at times of developing into a promising scorer.  Put a smaller defender on him, and he’ll rise up off the mid-range for two.  Put a bigger defender on him, and he use his dominant left hand to put it on the floor and get to the rim.  His footwork hasn’t caught up to his body yet, but should improve as time goes on.

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Western Crowned Champions in Class A

28 Mar

CBNBnMMUcAAmdA6.jpg-large“Cream always rises to the top, you can shake it up however you want, before the game is over,” said Detroit Western head coach Derrick McDowell, “ball players usually rise to the surface.”

McDowell’s Cowboys did the rise to the top in Class A, and have plenty of ball players.

Western, 26-0, withstood multiple Saginaw Arthur Hill spurts to capture the school’s first ever basketball state championship.

In the biggest game of his life, senior Josh McFolley felt some discomfort in his leg.  His Cowboys were in the midst of a back-and-forth dog fight with Arthur Hill in the third quarter.  Josh re-entered the game, and with his team up 33-32 with under three minutes before the fourth.  McFolley scored the team’s next eight points to conclude the period.  The energy the Cowboys would ride into the fourth.

“I wasn’t going to let any little soreness get me,” said McFolley.  “I knew my team needed me.”

Fellow senior Gerald Blackshear was the recipient of three McFolley assists in the early fourth, as the Cowboys built a commanding 13 point lead at one point.

Arthur Hill would not lie down lightly, but the Lumberjacks could not get the deficit below four.  Western had a response for every Arthur Hill charge  All-state senior guard Eric Davis fouled out of the game on an and-one with 1:34.  SAH did however cut the deficit to as low as four at one point, but junior guard Karim Murray connected on four free-throws in the final minutes to secure the Cowboy hardware.  Dequavion Johnson did hit a three with 12.1 left to place the Hill down four, but the Lumberjacks lost all their timeouts in the process before so.

McFolley paced Western with a team-high 19 points, to go along with six steals, Blackshear added 16 points and 12 rebounds, and Murray contributed 15 points.

“We got production from a lot of people,” added McDowell.

Brian Bowen led the Hill with 21 points and 11 rebounds, and Texas bound Eric Davis concluded his stellar high school career with 15 points and six rebounds.

The win for McDowell hands the veteran coach his first state championship.  Coach McDowell has always been respected in Detroit basketball.  Before his current position at Western, McDowell won multiple city titles as the head man for Detroit Redford.  McDowell noted he often use to share his glory day Redford stories with his team during the season, but not anymore.

“This is my fourth time here, and I finally got it,” he added.  “I’m done with the Redford stories, it’s on to the McFolley, Blackshear, and Neely stories.”

Lost in the press of the day was junior guard Brailen Neely.  He scored just eight points, but at times during the year served at the Cowboys leading scorer, and facilitator.  Neely has seen both the good and bad of Cowboy basketball.  A three-year varsity player, Neely is astonished with the growth of the program.

“It was a process,” said Neely of getting to where he’s at today.  “Freshman year, we we’re young, we had 1 senior, we had a lot of growing to do.  Next year, we thought we had it.  We wasn’t really listening and it showed in our game.  This year we were all on Coach McDowell page.”

The 2014-2015 season for Western can be divided into two ways, before January, and after January.  Before January, the aforementioned McFolley and Blackshear could not participate following transfers from Mt. Clemens.  Despite not having two division one recruits on the floor, Western stood strong, 9-0.  Contrary to popular belief, Coach McDowell was adamant about his belief Western was a state championship contender without Josh and Gerald.

“I had all the pieces anyway, those were just extra pieces,” McDowell said.  “We weren’t looking for them to come in and be Batman and Robin.  We had enough to win.”

Coach McDowell’s persona on the sideline is of a strict general, however, his players finally managed to force their coach show some emotion.  When it was for certain his team would receive the trophy, he displayed the often unknown lighter side of him.  To the joyous reception of his players.

 

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Balance Leads Arthur Hill Past Everett 73-61 In Semi-Final

27 Mar

IMG_0299Balance, balance, and more balance.  These were the words to describe the performance on display by the Saginaw Arthur Hill Lumberjacks in the Class A semi-final against Lansing Everett.

Four different Lumberjacks tallied double-digit points, Eric Davis with 20, junior guard Billy Burton 18 points on four three pointers, sophomore forward Brian Bowen 15 points, and Dequavion Johnson added 11 points.

“All of us are capable of scoring 20,” said Texas bound senior guard Eric Davis.  “Some nights it’s probably my night, Brian’s night, Billy’s night, so you never know game-by-game.”

After holding a slim three point half-time advantage, the third quarter was dominated by Arthur Hill.  The Lumberjacks outscored Everett 23-13 paced by Bowen with eight.

Head coach Greg McMath draws on experience to illustrate the importance of third quarter play.

“I felt the last two years when we got put out the tournament by Saginaw High they dominated the third quarter.  Every drill we had the second-half of practice was just go hard.”

Everett has their own high-major college talent in 6’10” Oregon commit Trevor Manuel.  However, Manuel found little success against the Lumberjack defense, a total of 13 points.  Manuel’s inability to find a consistent rhythm was in large part the work done by football prospect Willie Rodgers, a 6’4″ sophomore defensive end.  Further illustrating the depth of Arthur Hill.

“I had a meeting with just the other 10 guys on the team,” coach McMath said referring to Davis and Bowen.  “And I told them if we’re going to make a run, if we’re going to win a state championship, it’s going to be on you guys.”

“These two (Bowen and Davis) always get the press and they deserve it, but it’s a total team effort.”

McMath returns to his first state tile game since capturing the Class A crown in 2006.  The game is also special for Davis, who in his first three years of high school had not gone past the district round.

“I’m 32 minutes away from winning a state championship,” said Davis.  “And I want to go out a winner.  This is my first time being here, and I always say ‘better late than never.'”

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Beecher Routs Horton 71-43. Advance to Class C Title

26 Mar

IMG_0286Sam said “I am,” and Horton heard his swish.

Flint Beecher’s Sam Toins has had the Breslin Center on his mind for well over a year.  Toins’ Bucs suffered a heart breaker a season ago in the quarterfinals.  The senior shooting guard swore to himself and team that would not be repeated in 2015.

In the team’s 71-43 dismantling of Hanover-Horton in the Class C semifinal, Toins led the Bucs with a game-high 20 points, including five threes, four of which occurred in the first-half.

Not too often is the case a game of this magnitude is decided in the opening eight minutes.  However, the Bucs are no ordinary team.  Beecher outscored the Comets 23-3 in the opening period of action.  Horton found difficulty managing the Buccaneer half-court trap.  Beecher forced nine Hanover turnover in the first quarter, and 21 overall.

Coach Mike Williams’ team relies heavily on pressure to gain an advantage in games.

“We want to establish a tempo,” Williams said.  “And by coming out and some  these kids have never been in these situations before.”

Williams compares his team’s game-plan similar to a fight.

“You get into a fight, you want to throw the first punch, and throw the last punch,” Williams stated.  “So it doesn’t matter you win or lose you want to gain the respect of your opponent.”

If the Comets were fortunate to break the Beecher trap, Horton found little success in the half-court.  With a 36% field goal percentage compared to Beecher’s 51% field goal percentage, Horton had little to no room for error on the offensive end of the floor.

In addition to Toins’ performance, the Bucs had a well-rounded performance throughout the roster.  Senior forward Cedric Moten added 18 points, sophomore forward LeVane Blake added nine points and eight rebounds, while sophomore point guard Malik Ellison found success facilitating the Beecher attack, limiting turnovers, and applying on-ball pressure.

The win places Beecher into the Class C state championship game for the third time in the past four years, Beecher won state titles in ’12 and ’13.  Coach Williams also emphasized following the game he has lost as many state championships the same amount he has won.  Drawing on the invaluable amount of experience had led Williams to master the art of preparation.  Beecher’s special “championship practices,” involve grueling hours of sprints and scrimmages.  According to Coach Williams, it’s moments like this that have helped Beecher gain a state-wide reputation of excellence, and foster a sense of connection between the coaching staff and players in pursuit of a common goal.

“If you can’t handle me (Williams) in practice, when the pressure is on in the real game, they you won’t be able to handle it,” Williams said.  “But if you can handle me in practice, and you can get through.”

Williams’ goal for Saturday is to leave with “tears of joy.”

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