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East English’s Chris Rollins Commits To IPFW

29 Jun

DSC_00171Like coaches, point guards will be critiqued by wins and losses.  East English Village senior Chris Rollins is a winner.

Whether it be as a sophomore starter for Warren De La Salle, a junior transfer at EEVP, or through a successful travel ball career, Rollins will come out on top more times than not.

Now Rollins envisions winning games on the collegiate level, which will be as a Mastadon for Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW), despite not knowing the clear origin of the school’s mascot.

“I think it’s an extinct form of an elephant, and I know it’s symbolic of the State of Michigan.”

IPFW was the first school to extend interest towards Rollins during his recruiting process.  Chris displayed great loyalty to the Mastadon program committing before the July live evaluation period, with the possibility of receiving additional collegiate scholarships from other institutions.

“The school, and players, and coaches are really showing a lot of love (towards me),” Rollins said of his recruitment.  “Which is a major reason why I chose IPFW.”

Central Michigan, Western Michigan, and Northern Illinois were other suitors for Rollins’ services.  Chris is a mere 5’11,” not an ideal size for a division I caliber point guard.  However, Rollins compensates size for IQ, agility, speed, and instincts all lead guards must have.

“I feel as if I’m the most complete guard in the (Michigan’s 2016) class,” said Rollins.  “I think my game will translate well due to my quickness, and ability to score and make my teammates better.”

Before he can reach Fort Wayne, Rollins has unfinished business to settle in Michigan.  East English Village will be in their fourth year of existence his senior season, and the trophy cases are awfully empty.  Chris and four out of five returning starters plan on resolving that issue as the Bulldogs enter the 2015-2016 campaign a pre-season top ranked team.

“To be honest the goal for this season is to be a great team and ultimately win both city and states, and punish every team in our way.”

 

 

 

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U of D Mercy Elite Camp

25 Jun

Five players that stood out at the U of D Mercy Elite Camp.

Davion Williams 6’2″ 2018 guard Belleville- Davion has gone from simply a freak athlete into a polished and division one caliber two guard.  His jump shot is the most improved aspect of his game, hitting from 18-20 feet, and looks good doing so.  Uses hops to rebound ball at the highest point when down-low, can push the ball on the break, and looks to dunk everything in transition.  Patience on the offensive floor has also improved as well, no longer forcing ill-advised shots.  Uses strength and aggressiveness on defense.  Can defend both guard positions.

LaTravion Jackson 6’6″ 2018 wing Ypsilanti Lincoln-  Each year, there is a player who makes his mark at the U of D Team Camp who was relatively unknown before, that was Tray this year.  Jackson Played J.V. for Lincoln this past year, and perhaps could’ve aided the Rail Splitters in having a better year than they had.  Jackson concluded the camp with the most three-pointers made, with his length, and release points, it’s nearly impossible to challenge a Jackson shot.  His defense led to offense, he blocked shots down-low, pushed the ball up the court, and overall has a nice feel for the game with ability to create own shots.  High ceiling as body fills out.  Will compete with Michigan Mustangs-Haney 15u in July.

Malik Ellison 5’9″ 2017 point guard Flint Beecher- Ellison is tough as nails.  A true pesk as on on-ball defender in both the half-court and for opponents bringing the ball-up.  Pass first by nature, but showed he can hit the three-ball here or there.

Miguel Priest 6’5″ 2016 wing Legacy Charter (SC)- Priest was debatably the best rising senior in the entire camp.  He played football earlier in high school, and his physique and aggressiveness are aspects he’s carried over from the gridiron.  When he rebounded the ball, he became a one man fast break, pushing the ball up the court with his left-hand, and attacking in transition/semi-transition.  His three-point shot is a wild-card in Preist’s game, but seemed to have it going on the day.  Priest is worth a look to mid-major/low-major division one schools because of his production as an inside-outside presence.

Javon Lawrence 6’7″ 2016 forward River Rouge- Lawrence has long had the physical tools to become a quality big man in 2016.  Long, athletic, and mobile.  Javon simply needs to find a spark that will allow him see how good of a play he can become.  U of D Mercy was a good place to start for Lawrence.  He did a solid job rebounding on defense in his zone, challenging shots, and even stepped out and hit a few mid-range jump shots from the elbow.  Not a true back to the basket type player, but in the future can become a mismatch problem due to a solid left hand.

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U of D Mercy Shootout Day Two Thoughts

24 Jun

Day two of the U of D Mercy Titan Shootout.  AM champions Rochester Adams.  PM Champions Detroit Renaissance.

AM Session

Spencer Littleson 6’3″ 2016 point guard Rochester Adams- There was no more fundamentally sound guard than Littleson on the day.  Spencer has a full arsenal of moves to get open for what he does best, shoot.  Step-backs, spins, cross-overs, he will get a shot off.  But than opponents have to know where he’s at when he doesn’t. He flashes hard to get open and uses screens well.  His motor never runs low, and was 5-8 from the three-point line in the championship game.  Knows when to score and when to distribute.  For sure division one lock at this point.

Walter Kelser 6’0″ 2016  point guard Walled Lake Central- If Kelser was three to five inches taller, there would be a debate to who the top five in Michigan is.  When he has the ball, he looks to score.  His go-to move is the left-to-right crossover, get in the lane, and then use strength to absorb contact, stay in the air, and then finish.  Decent perimeter shooter off the bounce.  If a college needs a point guard that is going to put up 25-30 points a night, then this is your player.

Isaiah Lewis 5’7″ 2019 point guard Wayne Memorial- Lewis is thin, and might be invisible if he turns sideways.  But then watch him shoot.  No lie, Lewis went at least 7-7 to start the game against Wayne Memorial, five or so threes, and a couple of mid-range pull-ups.  With form, and confidence to continually shoot, it doesn’t appear as if this was an aberration for Isaiah.  Lewis is pass-first, but opponents cannot go underneath screens on him, he will make them pay.

David Rinke 6’7″ 2016 forward Rochester Adams- Rinke is a nice man to have in the lane for a very perimeter oriented team in Adams.  And interestingly, the Highlanders’ shooting has seemed to have spread to David, who stepped out a few times to make a jumper.  Not as much a threat offensively on the block, but on an occasion sealed his man well for an entry pass for a lay-up with proper footwork and positioning.  Plays with a workman like attitude, and rebounds well in his area.  NAIA/D3 skill-set.

Keep an eye out for:

Anton Lucaj 6’4″ 2016 wing Walled Lake Central

Kajuan Graham 6’1″ 2016 point guard Bloomfield Hills

PM Session

Terrance Sewell 6’2″ 2016 combo guard Detroit Northwestern- Sewell is the closest thing Michigan has to a Dwayne Wade, everything is to the basket, and he doesn’t have to be ball-dominant to do so.  Sewell sits on the wing, watches the defense, gets the ball, then takes-off.  With his body-control in the lane and ability to finish with either hand, Sewell made a living at the free-throw line.  Another aspect of Sewell’s game that stood out was him knocking in a few threes in the corner off passes, it’s long been a part Terrance has been working on his game.  Sewell will put his new jump shot on display in July to solidify himself as a division one prospect.

Jamal Cain 6’6″ 2017 wing Cornerstone- Cain will be high-major once his prep career concludes.  It is very hard to guard Jamal at the high school level.  Athleticism check, length check, versatility check.  At his best, there is no way to stop him.  If he’s not dominating the paint for put-backs and dunks than he’ll rain threes on you.  Cain is not a pure wing yet, there are still areas to grow for him such as ball-handling and slashing ability.  But how can you not think a kid named Cain will be good?

Mark Watts 5’10” 2019 point guard Mark Watts- If the words freshman were next to Watts’ name, it would be hard to tell he is a freshman.  He even plays up a level on Reach’s 15u squad.  Watts has the even-toed demeanor and poise of a future star in the making.  Mark is a pure point guard, he lets the game come to him.  Looks to set others up before himself, and is also a rare guard who feeds post-teammates.  This year he will play more off-the-ball due to various senior ball-handlers on the team, which should help learn newer aspects of the game by the time he gets the ball in his hand full-time.

Chris Rollins 5’11” 2016 point guard East English Village- Rollins competed with a killer instinct.  I’m going to score and you can’t stop me.  Mid-range pull-ups, and driving to the basket.  But what was surprising to see was how well Rollins communicated with teammates on the offensive and defensive ends of the floor.  Setting his players up for in-bounds plays, presses, and defensive-sets.  Rollins has long been on the border for D1/D2 material and July for Showtime will be telling.

Drequan Bell 6’3″ 2017 shooting guard Allen Academy- Bell can get into a zone.  With his herky-jerky form and range, Drequan can launch threes in bunches.  Stuck in the middle of pure shooting guard and college wing.  Consistency is the only thing obstacle holding Bell from becoming a monster.

Calvin Blaydes 6’5″ 2016 forward Belleville-  Blaydes has only played high school basketball for less than two years, and the next two years can be even brighter.  Naturally athletic with long-arms but undeveloped frame and coordination, Calvin cleaned up both glasses and even went toe-to-toe with the larger, sought after Cornerstone forward Jamal Cain.  Blaydes is a project moving forward, but with the proper polishing and attention there is no reason to think he won’t continue his career for four more years somewhere.

Kylan Shipp 5’8″ 2017 guard Detroit Northwestern- Under 6’0″ guards better be scrappy, and Kylan is that.  He’s tough, strong, and never backs down.  Was a key cog for the Colts reaching the semi-finals with a surprising win against a loaded Kalamazoo Central squad.  Many points came in transition off drives to the basket.  Not a pure point guard at this point in the half-court set, but has some weapons to work with now the before mentioned Terrance Sewell and 6’6″ Detroit Central forward transfer Darius Lynum.

Greg Elliott 6’3″ 2017 wing East English Village- Elliot’s position has long been up for discussion.  A point guard, shooting guard or wing?  For Tuesday, he was a wing.  With freakish long arms, Elliott may grow even more.  He is the type of guard schools that play zone would love to have.   Got out in transition and used that length to finish at the rim.

 

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U of D Mercy Team Shootout Day One Thoughts

23 Jun

Only day one of action, Toledo Whitmer won the AM session, while Lake Shore captured the PM session.

AM Session

Travez Nyx 6’3″ 2017 wing Detroit Consortium- Nyx played sparingly during the regular season, however, is starting to get a greater amount of quality burn.  With his height, and long arms, Nyx is a threat to opponents because he can disrupt passes.  As the day went on, his confidence grew and grew.  Travez made multiple slashes to the basket in transition finishing with his left hand.  Not an exceptional athlete, Nyx did not score much in the half-court, but found success in finding teammates.  He whipped in beautiful interior passes to the paint and placed his players in a position to score.  Travez’s collegiate level will be determined by his capacity to improve athleticism, footwork, individual offense, and perimeter jump shot.

Jaylon Moore 6’6″ 2016 forward Detroit Consortium- Moore looked as though he wishes to play both football and basketball next year at Western Michigan.  Moore has added an extra bounce in his step compared to the regular season.  Jaylon moves bodies while positioning himself in the interior, and had a lot of second-chance opportunities due to him doing work early on the boards.

Tyler Gillery 6’5″ 2017 wing Warren Mott- Just laying eyes on Gillery, there is massive amounts of potential.  Has the traditional size and body frame all division one wings must have with clear room for growth.  Far from a finished product, Gillery showed he can put the ball on the floor, and attack opponents off the dribble, even threw in a nice pump-fake here and there.  A decent vertical athlete, Tyler’s ceiling will depend on how much he wishes to assert himself, offensively or defensively.  There is too much talent not to be used.

Tariq Derrickson 5’11” 2017 point guard Notre Dame Prep- Granted NDP found little success in capturing victories on the day, little of the blame can be placed on Derrickson.  If NDP made at least half of the baskets off Derrickson’s passes, there might’ve been a different ending.  Whether in the half-court or transition, teammates better have their head up with Derrickson, because he will find you.  A crafty lefty ball-handler, Tariq can run pick-and-roll, or create separation for his own jump shot.

Pierre Mitchell 5’9″ 2018 point guard Detroit Loyola- Another member of Michigan’s celebrated 2018 guard class, PJ did not disappoint on the day as well.  Probably the leader in assists on day one.  He’s immensely quick with the ball, and so are his passes to either the perimeter or interior.  Mixed in a three here or there just for good measure.

Dequan Powell 5’11” 2016 combo guard Detroit Loyola- Sure he might be sub six-foot, but look at his rebounding numbers.  Dequan crashes the glass as if he was a seven-footer.  Defenders must box-out because of his ability to seemingly come from no where at get a board.  Overall, he’s one of the best at transitioning from defense to offense.  He’ll get a steal one minute, then rain a three.  A developed shooter that can come off screens in the mid-range, Dequan has even stretched his range to the three.  However, his bread and butter has always been defensively.

Andy Milikan 5’11” 2018 shooting guard Walled Lake Northern- Perhaps to best three-point shooter on the morning session, with deep range, ideal form, arch, and release.  However, he’s not just a shooter.  He’ll put the ball on the floor, observe what’s going on, then make a decision to either shoot or pass.  Moves well to get open without the ball.  Rebounds decently for a guard

PM Session

Dave Hearns 6’0″ 2018 combo guard Hazel Park- One of two sophomore Viking guards with division one potential, Dave is an efficient off-ball guard that is just as much a threat to score as he is to pass.  Gifted with stellar instincts, Dave is the type of player opponents must close out on properly, because he’ll slash to the basket and finish at the rim when the opportunity is present.  However, Hearns can recognize the open man if double-teamed.  Quality on-ball defender that will produce steals on occasion.

Jalen Tobias 6’5″ 2018 forward Detroit Renaissance- Tobias returns after an injury, placing him on the disabled list for over a month of AAU.  Jalen looks as quick, bouncy, and athletic before, maybe even more so.  His strength has been up to this point in his high school career rebounding, challenging shots, and finishing around the rim with either hand.  He will have to contribute in a half-court setting eventually.  Perhaps running an ideal pick-and-roll with fellow forward 6’7″ AJ Jackson is a solid place to start.

Antwan Johnson 6’5″ 2016 forward Detroit Henry Ford- Undersized for the position Ford plays him, power forward, but there was no one with a greater combination of athleticism and strength than Johnson.  A power glider that covers large amounts of ground when leaps, Antwan is a shot blocker and rebounder in and out of his area.  The issue with Johnson has always been what can he do in the half-court?  Well, he’s now starting to create his own offense.  He’s added a killer crossover that he displayed to create space at the top of the key and then get to the rim.  Three-point jump shot is improving as well.

James Towns 5’10” 2016 point guard Detroit Henry Ford- Towns already holds a U of D Mercy offer, and appears to be the Titan’s primary 2016 target at the point guard position.  James has take-over ability unmatched by others.  When he gets a head of steam going towards the basket, he’s most likely going to finish above with authority the rim despite his stature.  Has a good pass/shot ratio on the offensive end of the floor, can run a half-court offense and still be as effective compared to an up-tempo style of attack.  Three-pointers are going in with regularity now.  Defensively, Towns is a glove, with good footwork and body positioning.  Mid-major plus and high-major schools will regret not taking a look.

Phillip Curtis 6’5″ 2016 forward Lake Shore- Curtis is a grinder, what he lacks in skill he makes up for in heart.  He single-handedly carried Lake Shore against Cass Tech in the championship game.  Curtis was effective on the offensive glass.  Small schools will enjoy Phillip’s talents.

Ron Hill 5’10” 2018 point guard Pershing- By the time Hill is a senior, he will be the next Doughboy star.  Few young guards possess the intangibles nor play the game as pure as Hill does on both ends of the floor.  His physical maturation is the only obstacle to becoming a bonafide stud.

 

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Bloomfield Hills’ Cameron Dalton Headed to South Beach for Barry University

2 Jun

IMG_0699Bloomfield Hills senior Cameron Dalton has a reputation for switching basketball shoes each game the same way Michigan’s climate changes.  For college, Dalton will still have the opportunity for grabbing the latest sneakers, but won’t have to worry about the weather so much.

Because he’s going to South Beach.

The 6’0″ shooting guard committed to Barry University, a Division II school located in Miami Shores, Florida.  Dalton averaged 17 points per-game last season.

“I didn’t really have a lot of schools looking at me because of the way my school team’s season went,” said Dalton.  “I had very little schools looking at me, but I wanted to go college out-of-state, somewhere warm, so that’s why I picked Barry.”

Dalton’s last season was a disappointing 6-14.  The team graduated a plethora of seniors that contributed to a 24 win campaign a year earlier and a spot in the 2014 Class A state championship game.  Still, Dalton learned the importance of becoming a leader both on and off the floor.

“Losing a lot was something new to me,” said Dalton.  “It was a hard task trying to stay positive all the time.”

However, he doesn’t envision to see much losing in college.  Barry is one year removed from a 25 win campaign and a trip to second round of the NCAA tournament.  Winners attract winners, and Dalton claims he is an ideal fit for the Bucs’ style of play with stellar range of consistency with his perimeter jump shot.

“I would say I’m pretty good at putting the ball in the basket,” added Cameron.  “Barry needed a shooter and I think that’s what I’m best at.”

 

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Recapping The 5th Annual Michigan Playmaker Invitational

1 Jun

IMG_0678

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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30 Of The State’s Top Unsigned Seniors As Of May 27th

27 May

With signing day in the past, it’s time to close the book on Michigan’s Class of 2015.  However, there are still some quality players left unsigned in the state. Players on this list would make great last-minute additions to Division I, II, III, Juco, or prep schools.

Xavier Cochran 6’5″ wing Ann Arbor Huron- Holds double-digit division one offers.  Only a matter of time before he commits.

Dave Wren 6’1″ guard Ann Arbor Huron- Had a lot of mouths to feed during the season, but can put the ball in the basket himself.  Quick, gracefully gets around the court, and above the rim finisher.  Thrives in transition either scoring or passing.

Darryl Smith 5’11” guard Detroit Renaissance- Smith was a key reason as to why the Phoenix went from a January disappointment to one of the hottest teams in the state towards the end of the year.  Improved consistency on jump shot, but his bread and butter has always been defense and ball-handling.  Two traits most college coaches look for.

Javon Pratt 6’0″ guard Saginaw- Can heat up in a hurry, especially from long-range.  Plays with a toughness which has become to be expected from a Saginaw Trojan.

Sherrod Motley-Dismuke 5’10” guard Ypsilanti Lincoln- Quality effective lead guard.  Won’t make the highlight reel play but won’t kill you either.  Good x-and-o type floor general.

Howard McInnis 5’10” guard Oak Park- Comes off the bench and heats up.  McInnis can easily finish games in three to five threes and 25 points.

Isaiah Green 6’7″ forward Southfield- Mobile and smart.  With his grades, schools should look at him solely based off academics.  On the court, he has a high motor, good feet, and a soft touch up to 15 feet.

DeShawn Brocks 5’9″ guard Westside Christian- Was Detroit’s best kept secret.  A 1,000 point scorer on 3 1/2 years of competition.  The lefty excels in space, and is very elusive.  Brocks will take two years of a junior college.

Anthony Qasawa 6’4″ guard North Farmington- Dead eye shooter, from three and mid-range.  Improving athleticism and ball-handling.

Charles Penn 6’6″ forward Dakota- Versatility and athleticism.  Can guard and play multiple positions on the floor, and play above the rim.

Taariq Jones 6’6″ forward Dakota- Brute force with a polished game.  Rebounds and does a lot of the intangibles needed to win games.

Josh Reynolds 6’4″ guard Plymouth- Ideal size and length for a college level two guard.  Will need to add strength, but possesses deep range and consistent form on perimeter jump shots.

Tim Shayoka 6’2″ guard Troy Athens- Missed a great deal of games due to an injury.  Plays tough on both ends of the court.  Type of kid coaches want on their team.

Elmelik Martin 5’10” guard Lake Orion- Quick, shifty, and elusive.  When he doesn’t turn the ball over, Martin can be fun the watch.  At his best, Martin’s ball-handling puts defenders on the floor.

Lance Lewis 6’3″ guard Milan- Was the glue that held Milan together the past two years for consecutive trips to the Breslin Center.  Does whats called upon him.  Defend, shoot, rebound.  Jack of all trades.

Jalin Gibson 6’7″ guard River Rouge- Has high-major athleticism, just not polished yet.  Good around the basket with either hand.  Quality defender, and has increased range on his jump shot the past few seasons.

Curtis Davison 6’0″ guard Grand Rapids Union- Throw the ball to Curt and he’ll get a bucket.  One of the best isolation players in the state.  Can shoot, slash, and finish at the basket.  Plays with same intensity on offense as he does on defense.

Mykel Tyson 6’6″ forward Consortium- Bully in the paint, won’t out-jump for rebounds, but will out-work you.  Nice back to the basket skill set as well.

Keyon Rainey 5’10” guard Consortium- Had his moments during the season.  Shifty ball-handler, good vision as a passer, just has to avoid turnovers and unforced errors.  Could develop into a quality defender with his quick hands and feet.

Demario Mack 6’5″ forward Detroit Community- Explosive vertical athlete.  Rebounds at a high-rate even though he is often shorter than his opponent.  Will make a small school very happy.

Kyrahl Hunt 5’10” guard Detroit Community– Quick first step with ball in his hands.  Not flashy, but knows how to play the game.  Was the emotional leader for Community this season.

Lance Clanton 5’7″ guard Ottawa Hills- Plays larger than size.  The lefty is a blur with the ball in hands.  Picks his spots well when to attack, and can catch fire from beyond the three-point line.

Tyreese Searles 6’2″ guard Cornerstone- High IQ guard that plays his role on a team.  Reliable ball-handler, and decision maker.  Can score as well.

Neshua Wise 6’4″ guard Flint Southwestern- Had a breakout senior season for the Knights.  Developed into a consistent perimeter threat with his shot.

Austin Sherell 6’6″ guard New Haven- Sherell will make his college very happy with his ability to play three positions on the floor, point, shooting and small forward.  His length and athleticism give him the ability to become a lockdown defender.

Dmonta Harris 6’4″ guard New Haven- Buckets.  Harris is a three-level scorer whose combination of size for the position and skill made him a consistent 20 per-game scorer.  College level body who doesn’t force the issue if not present.  Very patient and efficient on the offensive side of the floor.

Lavail Russell 5’10” guard Melvindale ABT- He had the ball in his hands a great deal during his high school career.  When he’s on he’s on.  Fearlessly drives the basket.

Nick Robak 6’0″ guard Waterford Our Lady- Above the rim finisher for a Class D athlete.  Can shoot, rebound, and play both guard positions.

Michael Williams 6’4″ forward Wyoming Godwin Heights- Undersized forward but with heart and a leaping ability that makes up for it.

Igli Pirgu 6’2″ guard Westside Christian- One of the school’s all time leader in three-pointers.  Quick release, thrives coming off screens.  Will take a Juco.

 

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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 Recap Part 2

17 May

Kyle Hayes 6’7″ forward 1Nation 17u- When he wants to, Kyle can impact a game.  In his first tournament of the Spring, Kyle had a stellar performance against the Ohio Cagers, 17 overall points.  He found success in running the floor, getting out in transition, and finishing around the rim with either hand, to go along with an impressive dunk.  However, he also made a statement defensively.  He blocked several shots at the rim and had multiple solid defensive series for a forward.  Hayes is in the proverbial “tweener” role, as his position is yet to be determined at this point in time.  June will be a big month for the Arbor Prep Gator.

Josh Long 6’6″ forward 1Nation 16u- Long did not play the previous high school season due to state transfer rules, but hasn’t missed a step so far.  Josh is a true mismatch type forward.  Long is usually placed on the block, but with a skill set of a wing, Long can face up, shoot, attack off the bounce with his right hand, and finish above the rim.  Competes with a tenacious effort, should develop into a versatile defender, and rebounds as if he were 6’10.”  Had 24 points against Reach.

Armonee Felder 5’10” guard 1Nation 16u- Felder needed to shoulder an even greater scoring load with his team playing with seven guys on the weekend, and the Pershing Doughboy did just that.  He’s quick, shifty, and can blow by defenders with either hand.  Was in consistent attack mode all weekend, fearlessly attacking the rim against taller defenders and drawing contact.  But what can set the younger Felder apart in the state is a consistent jump shot, he looked confident when resorting to a three pointer, and connected on several high-difficulty step-back ones.  Continuing to work on recognizing when to distribute and when to score.

Byrce Washington 6’3″ guard The Family 15u- Washington tallied 22 points in their win against the Michigan Gators Saturday afternoon.  Bryce didn’t take a high-amount of shots to get there either.  He was in the right spot at the right time for either a pass or an offensive rebound for a tip-in.  Plays off the ball, has terrific body control, and seems to still be growing.

Vincent Williams 6’6″ forward Michigan Gators 15u- Williams was the reason the Gators nearly beat The Family Saturday afternoon, as the Toledo St. John’s big man scored 24 points.  Williams is far from a finished product, but showed what he can do against equally talented posts.  Playing above the rim, establishing deep post position to go along with strong hands, and playing with an overall sense of aggressiveness.  Rebounds his area well, and challenged shots in the lane.  Decent footwork and lateral mobility.

Darian Owens-White 6’0″ guard The Program Elite 16u- Darian is the ultimate extension of a coach on the floor, as a son of a state championship winning coach.  Owens-White does not get phased with pressure or change his game due to what the opponent does.  He can handle the ball for a point guard, set-up/run a half-court offense, find an open man, and hit mid-range jump shots when all else fails.  Heady defender, keeps man in front, and rarely found out of position.

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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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