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River Rouge’s Amir Poole Commits to Siena Heights

14 May

Gnh7lEkKHow does it feel to commit to Siena Heights?

It feels great to commit to Siena Heights, I’m very excited.

When did you know Siena Heights was right for you?

I knew it was right after I visited and talked to the coaches and they basically said they wanted me there so I made it happen.

Did you visit the campus?

Yes I visited the campus it was nice, I like how it’s not big, it’s a nice size campus with wonderful people on it.

What’s your relationship with the coaches like?

My relationship with the coaches is great I talk to coach Dan Yatzek almost everyday.  They plan to use me as a pass-first shoot-second point guard and to be a ball hawk on the ball.

How would you describe yourself as a player?

As a player I would describe myself as a smart high IQ pass-first guard that can knock down open shots threes or mid-range, can check 94 feet.

What took you so long to commit?

What took me so long to commit was I didn’t know where I was going to go.  I was waiting on things to fall into place and they did when Siena Heights offered me being that I’ve been around this university since I was younger so I was comfortable to the surroundings.

What other schools recruited you and what was different about Siena Heights?

Others schools that recruiting me were Indiana Tech, Albion, Harris-Stowe University, Adrian, and the difference between them and Siena is that I actually want to be here and I love the school and have a great relationship with the coaches.

How did this past high school season go?

This past high school season went well but it could’ve been history if things would’ve went different but I had a good season, I played with more of a purpose this year.

How about your overall high school career?

My overall high school experience was good I learned a lot and I progress since my Freshmen year but I’m glad I have the chance to continue my basketball career on the collegiate level as a Saint.

What do you plan to study in college?

Education wise I plan to be an automotive technician which is in the field of engineering.

Walled Lake Western’s Jerald Booker to Concordia

13 May

image1Did you visit the campus? What did you like about it?

Yes I visited the campus.  I liked it because seemed peaceful and it wasn’t huge but it wasn’t small either which I like.

Did you meet the coaches? How do they plan to use you?

I only met the head coach once but he was down to earth and was honest which is very important.  They plan on using me as a combo guard and there will be minutes for me to come in and make an impact as a freshmen.

How would you describe yourself as a player?

I would describe myself as unselfish, dedicated, and hardworking player.  I try to make the smart decision every play.

How would you describe the recruiting process?

I waited so long because I didn’t find a right fit for me and my family until I came across Concordia.  Northwood, U of M Dearborn, Albion, Findlay University and Spring Arbor University were some schools recruiting me.  They were different because I didn’t feel comfortable and I didn’t feel like it was the right place for me.

How did this past season go for you? And what was your overall career like?

It was my best high school season it was fun. Our record was 21-2 which was a school best.  My overall high school experience has been great.  I have so many memories that I will cherish forever and a group of friends that I can truly call my family I loved all the ups and downs.  Our bond is unbreakable because of it.

What do you plan to study?

I plan on going into sports management.

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Hudonville’s Brent Hibbitts Shows Patience on Commitment To U of M

12 May

Screen-Shot-2012-12-30-at-1.05.42-PM-475x338Patience.  It’s not a word commonly associated with college basketball recruiting.  In the era of spontaneous offers and commitments, few recruits take all factors into consideration when evaluating a college program.

Brent Hibbitts took an opposite route.

The 6’7″ Hudsonville forward committed to the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor as a preferred walk-on, ending a long college recruiting process which took longer than usual.

“It feels amazing,” Hibbitts said of the opportunity to play at U of M.   “To be recruited is a blessing, but it’s good to finally have it over with.  On top of that I get to attend my dream school.  It doesn’t get much better than that.”

Hibbitts took a visit recently before committing.  After contemplating various mid-major division one scholarship offers, Brent decided to look for aspects of programs not solely confined to the hardwood.

“I just wanted to take my time and when I found the school for me,” added Hibbitts.  “You can’t beat Michigan academically, and all of the coaches and players are first-class guys.  It is just an all-around great place.”

Hibbits still can play on the hardwood.  With averages of 17 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks per-game during his senior season.

Brent joins 6’10” German prospect Moritz Wagner as the second member of the Wolverine’s 2015 recruiting class.

 

 

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Alabama Offers East Lansing Freshman Brandon Johns

9 May

B9317090312Z.1_20150423113347_000_GVKAJAKIM.1-0Brandon Johns is quite different from a typical freshman.  Not only does he stand 6’7,” or play varsity basketball, but the East Lansing ninth grader received a collegiate basketball scholarship from the Alabama Crimson Tide.

“It feels great,” Johns said of his offer.  “It’s a feeling I have never had before.”

Alabama will be under the direction of first year head coach Avery Johnson this upcoming campaign.  Johnson is most known for his time spent as an NBA head coach in the 2000s, guiding the Dallas Mavericks to the 2006 finals.  However, Coach Johnson was a point guard for the 1999 San Antonio Spurs championship team.

“I started hearing about them (Alabama) about a couple weeks ago, but I never thought this (an offer) would happen,” Johns added.  “And it was such a great experience to get to talk to him (Avery Johnson) and to hear how he got to where he is at now.”

A versatile skilled inside-outside forward, Johns has been recognized since the eighth grade.  He’s been invited to many of the top underclassmen camps in the country, including the Team USA mini-camp in Colorado.  Colleges such as Michigan, Michigan State, Ohio State, and Stanford have all expressed interest in Brandon.  Coaches on the next-level tell him they admire his upside, athleticism, and ability to play multiple positions on the floor.

“They (schools) say I’m very good at all positions,” Johns notes.   “And I should work on a few things but if I keep working at the pace I’m at then I won’t have a problem fitting in at the next level.”

With scholarships and interests comes notoriety.  Johns will likely receive the absolute best of his opponents each time he steps on the floor, instead of brushing off the fame, Johns embraces the bright lights.  It’s material he will use to only strengthen his game as time goes on.

“I like it (fame) but I don’t let it get to my head or over my head to where I just want to settle,” said Johns.  “It pushes me to see how farther I can get.”

 

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Michigan Warrior Jam Fest Day Three Recap

4 May

IMG_0525Champions were crowned, and names were made.

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

At times, Orr looked like the best player in the gym even while sharing the paint with Brandon Johns.  Tre single-handedly carried his team in the championship game, scoring nearly 1/2 of the Playmakers’ 42 points with 20 overall in addition to 12 rebounds.  He’s improved drastically in just a short month of games, and only started playing organized basketball three years ago.  Orr is starting to develop of nice feel down low, he’s not getting his shot blocked anymore, using pump-fakes and his wide-frame to clear space and finish softly on either side of the rim.  Continuing to polish up his vertical and lateral abilities.  His defense is also starting to improve.  Defends without fouling, double-teamed Johns well off-catches, and challenged shots, nearly taking a few charges.

Richard Talley 5’11” guard Michigan Playmakers 17u-

If there was a defensive player of the tournament award, Talley would get the nod.  Few to none applied better consistent on-ball full-court pressure than Rich on the weekend.  At times, Talley simply ripped the ball from opponents,  In the championship game, he stole three passes in less than two minutes.  He also converted various fast-break lay-ups, and displayed a surprising amount of bounce for a guard his size.  In the half-court, Talley blew by defenders with either hand, and created opportunities for his teammates to score in the paint.  His ability to run the point compared to his high school responsibility of off-ball role should call for college interest.

Reese Middleton 6’3″ guard Triple-Threat 16u-

Reese saved his best performance for the championship game.  Middleton found a rhythm early from beyond the arch and let it go, connecting on multiple spot-up threes from downtown in both halves.

Other standouts:

Juan Warren 6’5″ forward Triple-Threat 16u- Warren took home MVP honors for Triple-Threat, as the Battle Creek product was Mr. Glue for the 16u champs.  Crashing the boards, getting 50-50 balls, and providing an overall sense of energy.  Solid athlete that appears to still be growing.

Colyn Waldron 6’0″ guard Michigan Playmakers 17u- Found himself a nice stroke in the tournament, as he hit medium-range jumpers consistently and even a few threes.

Eric Williams 6’1″ guard Michigan Playmakers 16u- With Williams, he might lull you to sleep a few games, and then he’ll have a series or a game that makes you take notice of his potential.  If he’s playing confident, Eric will score, 12 off the bench in the championship game.  Can create his own shot with his dominant left-hand, score in the mid-range, and even pulled off an impressive offense tip-in against a taller Triple-Threat front-line.  Give him some time under George Ward and he will be a new player by the Fall.

Antwan Johnson 6’5″ forward Michigan Playmakers 17u- This was Johnson’s weekend.  Absolutely dominated the interior for boards, layups, and blocks.  Even hit a jumper here-and-there for a more athletically gifted player.

A huge thanks to Rockey Black and the entire Michigan Warrior organization on a professionally ran event.

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Oak Park Senior Justin Knight Commits To Siena Heights

3 May

IMG_0981When did you know Siena Heights was right for you?

I knew Siena Heights was right for me as soon as I left their campus from my visit.

What do you like about the campus?

Yes I visited the campus, I liked how the environment was small and easy to adapt too.

What is your relationship with the coaches like?

My relationship with the coaches is very good, they plan on using me for my pass-first mentality and ability to shoot the ball.

How would you describe yourself as a player?

As a player I believe I distribute the ball to my teammates and knock down open shots when needed.

What were some other schools looking at you and what was different about Siena Heights?

Other schools that showed interest were Kalamazoo College, Cornell College, Southwest Oregon CC, Sinclair CC, Illinois Tech University, and Concordia University.  The difference between them and Siena is the relationship with the coaches I talked with Coach Case very often, he told me good luck before my big games in my high school season.  I liked that.

How was this past season for you?

This past high school season was bittersweet. I feel like I stepped up this year, making a name for myself but then again wish I had a little more time to go farther in the playoffs.

What do you have to say for your entire high school career?

I feel like I really grew throughout my whole high school career. Gaining a better knowledge for the game and getting myself ready for the next level.

What do you plan to study?

Education wise I plan on majoring in sports management or physical education so if I don’t play basketball anymore I can still be around the game.

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Warrior Jam Fest Day Two Recap

3 May

IMG_0502Pool play ended, and a bracket games commenced.

Dequan Powell 6’0″ guard Michigan Playmakers 17u (pictured)- 

While known for a defensive player, Dequan was able to give the Playmakers offensively, 13 against Hoop Grind and 11 vs. the Warriors.  Many of which came off jump-shots, an area he has improved drastically compared to a year ago.  Connected on four threes in the two combined games, and several mid-range pull-ups, while also playing well defensively.

Dwight Burton 6’1″ guard Michigan Playmakers 17u- 

The Playmakers already have a solid group of guards, but Burton can put them over the top.  In his first tournament with the team this Spring, Dwight did not disappoint, 16 in the first game, nine against Hoop Grind, and 13 coming vs. the Warriors.  In one particular stretch against the Warriors, Burton looked unstoppable, scoring seven straight, a nice take to the basket, a three, and a circus shot through contact at the rim.  Overall, Burton has a nice first step, a variety of moves to attack the basket for a scorer, and quality ball-handling abilities.  His best move of the day was coming down on the break with one defender with him, faking a behind-the-back pass, the defender following, and Burton sliding in for an uncontested lay-up.

Mike Bruce 6’3″ guard Michigan Warriors 17u-

Plays more an off-guard role compared to his point guard responsibilities at Belleville during the season.  Bruce scored 13 points in the loss to the Playmakers, and was the catalyst for a near comeback trailing double-digits throughout the game.  Bruce displayed an improved mid-range game, and attacking the offensive glass for second-chance baskets.

Tabin Throgmorton 6’3″ guard Team Basketball 17u-

At Clarkston Tabin was a role player, now he does it all for Team Basketball.  Score, rebound,  handle the ball, facilitate, shoot, he finds so many ways to beat opponents.  Very crafty and one step ahead of defenders.  Also hit a game winner for his team on the day.

Kyle Woodruff 6’2″ guard Michigan Mustangs-Woodruff 17u-

Didn’t let the high-intensity/emotional game shake his play, scoring nearly a third a of his team 56 points with 23.  Hit clutch threes down the stretch in the second-half coming off screens, and was impeccable from the free-throw line.

Other standouts on the day:

Kaevon Merriweather 6’1″ guard Michigan Warriors 16u- Ceiling is extremely high for Merriweather.  Will be in contention at Romulus come Summer League for minutes.

Antuan Johnson 6’5″ forward Michigan Playmakers 17u- Freak of an athlete.  Nearly had a SportsCenter highlight worthy dunk.  Still found ways to clean the glass, and change shots.

Andia Marsh 6’1″ guard Michigan Warriors 17u- Lived at the free-throw.  Tough to stop when gets downhill.

Brian Walker 6’4″ forward Ypsi Cavs- Showed flashes at times of being able to shoot/score the ball.

Dave Wren 6’1″ guard Ypsi Cavs- One of the best unsigned senior point guards in Michigan at the moment.  Gracefully gets around the floor, pass first, and plays above the rim.

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Muskegon’s Jason Loera Commits to Ferris State

1 May

image1How does it feel to commit to Ferris State?
It feels great to say that I committed to Ferris State University.  At first I thought I wasn’t going to be able to play at the next level, well a level that I wanted to play at but Ferris gave me the opportunity to do that, and it feels great.  I’m truly blessed and thankful.

When did you know Ferris was right for you?
When I applied for Ferris a couple months ago, I did a lot of research.  Did research on the programs that they have at the university and also did some research on the program.  They are building a great program and they’re going in the right direction. When I visited, they made me feel comfortable, campus was great, nice college town, and the players made me feel like I was family as if they knew me for quite some time.

What is your relationship with the coaches like?
My relationship with the coaches is good so far.  I hope to continue to grow with them as I go through my years at the university.  I really don’t know exactly how they plan to use me but whatever it is, I’ll give 110% to that role each & every day.  To me it’s all about winning and having fun.  I’m about doing whatever it takes to win.

What were some other schools recruiting you?
Some other schools were a smaller schools that were out of state, a couple community colleges, Juco, and other Division 2 colleges.

Do you know any players currently at Ferris

I knew a couple players at Ferris.  I know them from summer camps, playing against them, or watching them.  Not many but I knew some.

 

How did the past high school season go?

The past high school year went great. We finished the season 24-2. I averaged close to seven points per game, was second in assists, and second in blocks. We didn’t repeat like we wanted to but the season was great.

What do you plan to study in the classroom?
When I attend Ferris State University this fall, I play to Major in either Psychology or Business.

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EEVP’s Karmari Newman Rising Quickly On Recruiting Boards

29 Apr

0cq4Q48XKarmari Newman, a 6’3″ junior East English Village Prep guard, is among the state’s elite scorers, but there’s something else he’s been able to score in the short off-season, college scholarships.

Newman received two division one college scholarships in less than 48 hours, one from Kent State, while the other was hometown U of D Mercy as well as an offer he previously held from Cleveland State.

Newman convinced many schools of his potential and ability at the King James Shooting Stars Classic in Akron, Ohio, with a 35 point performance in the gold championship game.  Only a microcosm of how well Karmari has played this Spring.

“I’ve played extremely well,” Newman said of his play so far.  “Actually, I’ve been able to show them (colleges) my ability to play both sides of the basketball, and how bouncy I am.”

Newman mentioned style of play will be a key factor in his recruiting process.

“I want to play at a college that plays up and down,” Karmari added.  “Similar to my high school playing style.”

His playing style has received interest from Xavier, Iowa, Iowa State, Mississippi State, Vanderbilt, Northern Illinois, and Northern Kentucky.  With two months remaining of tournaments for Detroit Showtime, Newman promises to provide nothing but a show from here on out.

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2015 King James Shootings Stars Classic Recap

27 Apr

IMG_0479

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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