Mayor’s Pre-season Class A Rankings

7 Dec

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The state’s most competitive division will be one to watch.

1. U of D Jesuit- The third time could be the charm for the Cubs, as U of D has ended their season in the state semi-finals the previous two years.

Key players- 6’0″ senior guard Cassius Winston, 6’9″ junior forward Ike Eke, 6’8″ junior forward Greg Eboigboden, 6’0″ sophomore guard Elijah Collins, 5’9″ freshman guard Julian Dozier

2. Detroit Western– Western will have their whole team from day one this season.  The Cowboy backcourt will be the team’s strength, with the ability to apply pressure defense, and make perimeter shots.

Key players- 5’10” senior guard Brailen Neely, 6’0″ senior guard Armani Tinsley, 6’2″ senior guard Karim Murray, 6’6″ junior forward Josh Long, 6’5″ junior forward Demoines Whitney

3. Detroit East English Village- On paper one of the deepest teams in the state having played together both during the high school and travel seasons.  But must execute as a cohesive unit to reach potential.

Key players- 6’3″ senior guard Karmari Newman, 6’5″ senior forward Cedric Lattimore, 6’4″ senior forward Jaylin McFadden, 5’11” senior guard Chris Rollins, 6’4″ senior wing Lamar Neely, 6’7″ senior forward Joe Barron, 5’10” senior guard Nate Bowlware, 6’3″ junior guard Greg Elliott

4. Macomb Dakota- Have the size, smarts, and guards to make a run for Class A.

Key players- 6’0″ senior guard C.J. Marshall, 5’8″ junior guard Jermaine Jackson Jr., 6’6″ junior forward Braeden Sackely, 6’7″ sophomore forward Thomas Kithier.

5. Clarkston– That team from up north always finds ways to win.

Key players- 6’4″ senior guard Tabin Throgmorton, 6’4″ junior wing Dylan Alderson, 5’10” sophomore guard Foster Loyer.

6. Grand Rapids Christian– With two transfer forwards GRC is suddenly a player in Class A, will need a point guard to develop.

Key players- 6’7″ junior forward Xavier Tillman, 6’6″ junior forward James Beck.

7. Detroit Renaissance– All the pieces in play to make a run for city and state crowns.

Key players- 6’3″ senior guard Justin Turner, 6’6″ senior forward A.J. Jackson, 5’10” senior guard Richard Talley, 6’4″ junior guard LaRhonde Lucas, 6’5″ sophomore forward Jalen Tobias.

8. Lansing Everett- Gone is Trevor Manuel, but three standout guards will lead Everett to many victories this season.

Key players- 6’4″ senior guard JaMyrin Jackson, 6’1″ senior guard LeAndre Wright, 5’10” junior guard Nyrell Powell.

9. Kalamazoo Central– Despite losing their best player via prep school, the Maroon Giants have the talent to remain top dogs in Southwest Michigan.

Key players- 6’0″ senior guard Jeremiah Richard, 6’7″ junior forward Isaiah Livers, 6’5″ junior forward Rog Stein, 6’4″ junior guard Ontario Burnett.

10. East Kentwood- The Falcons put together a perfect regular season, and return a balanced group of seniors at every position.

Key players- 6’7″ senior forward Andrew Madison, 6’2″ senior guard Micah Rosser, 6’2″ senior guard Brandon Fuller.

11. North Farmington- Billy T will be eligible for the whole year this season, and he has help on the way with a transfer from Michigan and Georgia.

Key players- 6’0″ senior guard Billy Thomas, 6’2″ senior guard Obi Duru, 6’3″ senior guard Alex Darden, 5’10” senior guard Josh Hogans, 6’3″ junior guard Amauri Harden, 6’6″ forward Nate Brooks.

12. Belleville- Could easily be mistaken for a J.V. with the amount of youth the Tigers have.  Their game, however, is varsity approved.

Key players- 6’5″ senior forward Calvin Blaydes, 6’6″ senior forward Trevor Molinda, 6’3″ sophomore guard Davion Williams, 6’2″ sophomore guard Kmari Carey, 6’2″ sophomore wing Devin Alverson.

13. Romulus- Not the most talented of Romulus teams, but will compete.

Key players- 6’3″ senior guard Rahsaan Pope, 6’7″ senior forward Trey Carter, 6’0″ senior guard D’Angelo Hansbro, 5’10” senior guard Sevann Williams, 6’2″ senior guard Khari Williams, 6’0″ sophomore guard Kaevon Merriweather, 6’0″ sophomore guard Rashaad Williams.

14. Ypsilanti– The Grizzlies lack size, but Coach Brooks’ team will guard the length of the floor.

Key players- 6’2″ senior guard Corey Allen, 6’1″ senior guard Rayjon Williams-Jackson, 5’10” junior guard Marlin Talley, 5’11” junior guard James Davis, 6’5″ sophomore forward Josh Perkins.

15. Muskegon- No big names this year for Muskegon, but the Big Reds will find ways to win games with players having to take on different roles.

Key players- senior guard 5’10” Michael Littlejohn, 6’0″ senior guard Linwood Lee, 6’5″ junior forward Anthony Bethea.

 

 

Mayor’s Pre-season Class B Rankings

7 Dec

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Class B is wide-open for the taking this year.

1. Wyoming Godwin Heights- The champs will be favored once again to repeat with a mixture of veterans and talented youth.

Key players- 6’2″ senior guard Richard Major, 6’0″ senior guard Leon Redd, 5’10” junior point guard Christian Rodriguez, 6’5″ sophomore forward Markeese Hastings, 5’10” sophomore point guard Susu Davenport, 5’11” sophomore point guard Peyton Harley, 6’1″ sophomore guard Lamar Norman.

2. New Haven- Lost just one game a season ago, and return the two tallest players in the class.

Key Players- 6’10” senior forward Innocent Nwyoko, 6’10” senior forward Jerry Ben, 6’3″ junior guard Eric Williams, 6’5″ freshman wing Romeo Weems.

3. River Rouge- The Panthers returned to prominence last season, but lose four starters from a 19 win team a year ago.

Key players- 6’6″ senior forward Javon Lawrence, 6’2″ senior guard Dorian Watson, 6’0″ junior point Darian Owens-White, 6’3″ junior wing Delonte Peterson

4. Benton Harbor- This will be the last go-around for one of the best backcourt combinations in the state.

Key players- 6’3″ senior guard Jaton Gunn, 6’0″ senior guard Curtis Dawson, 6’1″ junior guard Roy Anderson.

5. Detroit Consortium- The Cougars are always a tough out regardless of who is on their roster.

Key players- 6’1″ senior guard Luster Johnson, 6’5″ senior forward Jaylen Moore, 6’4″ senior forward Jaylen Sykes, 5’10” senior guard C.J. Figueroa.

6. Onsted- Game plan for the Bulldogs all year should be feed the post.

Key players- 6’10” senior forward Austin Davis, 6’7″ junior forward Sylar Lipinski.

7. Detroit Osborn- Osborn has dominated the division II portion of the PSL in recent years, the Knights make the jump to division I this year to see how good they really are.

Key players- 6’7″ senior forward Devin Dubois, 6’0″ junior guard Armonee Felder, 5’11” sophomore guard Jamarria Hall

8. Hazel Park- Talented youth make the Vikings a player in Class B.

Key players- 6’7″ senior forward James Jenkins, 5’11” junior guard Cam Boatman, 6’1″ sophomore guard Carl Bow, 6’0″ sophomore guard Dave Hearns

9. Alma- Feed the big!

Key players- 6’9″ senior guard Dylan Carl

10. Stevenvsille-Lakeshore- Feed the big!

Key players- 6’10” senior forward Braden Burke.

11. Detroit Northwestern- A productive month of June team camps should propel the Colts to take their play a level higher.

Key played- 6’2″ senior guard Terrance Sewell, 5’10” junior guard Kylard Ship

12. Detroit Henry Ford- After a historic run to the Breslin Center, the Trojans must replace four starters and a healthy amount of role players.  Hustle and grit will be the formula for Ford to win games.

Key players- 6’0″ senior guard James Towns, 6’3″ senior forward Alston Hunter, 6’2″ senior guard Jeremy Crawley, 5’10” senior guard Angelo Walker, 6’0″ sophomore guard Damon Gilmore.

13. Wayland Union- An inside and outside presence will be tough for opponents to stop this season.

Key players- 6’0″ senior guard Avery Hudson, 6’7″ junior forward Zack Nieukwoop

14. Flint Southwestern– Michigan is eagerly awaiting for a Flint team from Michigan to return to respectability.  Will the Knights be this year’s team?

Key players- 6’1″ senior guard Tevin Taylor, 5’7″ senior guard DeShaun Pride.

15. Williamston- Return six seniors from a 17 win team and gain a top freshman in the state.

Key players- 6’0″ senior guard Riley Lewis, 6’5″ freshman forward Sean Cobb.

 

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Mayor’s Pre-season Class C Rankings

1 Dec

Beecher reigned supreme in 2015.

Beecher reigned supreme in 2015.

Will Beecher make it four in five years?  Or will the Bucs be de-throned from Class C supremacy?

1. Beecher– By far Class C’s most dominant team in the past four years with three state crowns.  Despite the Bucs’ dominance in Class C, Beecher has proved able to take-down larger schools.  Only preparing them for the real season of March.

Key players: 5’7″ junior point guard Malik Ellison, 5’10” junior point guard Jordan Roland, 6’7″ junior forward Levane Blake, 6’4″ senior forward Qua Burks.

2. Monroe St. Mary- St. Mary now transitions to life without Bryce Windham.  The Falcons fell one game short of the Breslin Center appearance one season ago, but have the talent and road map to reach the final weekend of the season.

Key players- 6’4″ senior wing Stephan Umfress, 6’7″ junior forward Nick Welch, 6’6″ sophomore forward Wyatt O’Brian, 6’2″ senior guard Hunter Coombe, 6’1″ senior guard Drew Sconochia, 6’3″ senior guard Bradley Shinnevarre.

3. Detroit Allen Academy- Talent is not the question, but must gel as a cohesive unit, particularly on the defensive end of the floor.  Combination of both size and speed makes the Wildcats tough to contain.

Key players- 6’0″ senior guard Jason Williams, 6’8″ senior forward Danny Pippen, 6’5″ senior forward Jayvaun Flake, 6’2″ junior guard Drequan Bell, 6’3″ junior guard Jawan Snoody, 5’10” freshman point guard Mark Watts.

4. Detroit Loyola- P.J. Mitchell was able to ease into his high school career a season ago behind a solid group of senior leaders.  This year will be the Mitchell show, and the Bulldogs will go as far as the Central Michigan commit takes them.

Key players- 5’10” senior combo guard Dequan Powell, 5’11” senior guard Romari Ennis 6’0″ junior forward Jaylen Hill, 5’8″ sophomore point guard Dequan Powell, 6’2″ sophomore forward Keith Johnson.

5. Southfield Christian- The Eagles adjusted to Class C after a three year reign in Class D.  Backcourt, check.  Bigs, not so much.

Key players- 6’4″ senior wing Marlo Brown, 5’8″ senior guard Jalen Bouldes, 5’11” senior guard Richard Faegin, 6’4″ junior wing Brock Washington, 6’3″ junior wing Trenton Temple, 6’4″ sophomore wing Bryce Washington.

6. Detroit Edison- Edison exceeded expectation one season ago winning a district championship.  Despite just one experienced senior on the roster, the Pioneers are a mixture of talented youth, and accepting role players.

Key players- 5’9″ senior guard KaLeif Gaines, 6’7″ junior forward Will Weems, 6’3″ junior guard Jamal Keese, 6’6″ sophomore forward Deante Johnson, 6’2″ sophomore point guard David DeJulius, 6’5″ freshman forward Dreyon O’Neil..

7. Detroit Cornerstone- The Wolves will be state playoff eligible this season.  Led by a top 100 junior prospect in the nation, Cornerstone is yet another Detroit team with a realistic possibility to play at the Breslin Center.

Key players- 5’10” senior point guard James Burton, 6’3″ senior forward Deijoun Ingram-Lawrence, 6’0″ junior guard Davion Bradford, 6’6″ junior forward Jamal Cain, 6’5″ junior forward Ethan Dixon.

8. Ypsilanti Arbor Prep– New coach Cliff Davis inherits an experienced district championship team.  With size, depth, and transfers on the way, the Gators are a force to be taken seriously this Winter.

Key players- 6’8″ senior forward Kyle Hayes, 6’7″ senior forward David Walker, 6’2″ senior guard Adrian Harrison, 6’0″ junior guard Kody Freeman, 5’10” junior point guard Garrett Gardette.

9. Detroit Pershing– Pershing has five state champions, none of which are from Class C.  The Doughboys will be tested through the gauntlet which is the Detroit Public Schools League, only then readied for a district with four teams in the pre-season top ten.

Key players- 6’6″ senior forward David Syfax, 6’7″ senior forward Charles Manson, 5’10” senior guard Troy Campbell, 6’0″ junior guard Patrick Hatcher, 6’0″ sophomore combo guard Ron Hill.

10. Hanover-Horton- Despite a crushing defeat to eventually champion Beecher in the semi-finals, Horton won 25 games, and will be a force in the southern portion of Michigan.

Key players- 6’5″ senior forward Preston Laketa.

11. NorthPointe Christian- Lost a significant portion of scoring, rebounding, and leadership due to graduation, but someone has to represent the westside of the state.

Key players- 6’5″ senior guard Tyler Baker

12. Muskegon Heights- Overshadowed by the large Class A Muskegon, Muskegon Heights has been a respectable program since the turn of the century.  Although the Tigers failed to capture a district championship last season for the first time since 1999, Heights usually one way or not finds themselves in contention for a spot at the Breslin Center come March.

Key players- 6’5″ sophomore forward Keishon Watson.

13. Ferndale University- The Eagles have no household names, but won 14 games a campaign ago.  Backcourt will be strength led by two veteran guards.

Key players- 6’9″ senior forward Chemar Greenfield, 6’3″ senior point guard Gehringer Ramirez, 6’1″ combo guard Justin Penn.

14. Melvindale ABT- Despite an average record, the Gators still managed a district championship.

Key players- 6’6″ junior forward Elijah Smith.

15. Riverview Gabriel Richard- The Pioneers are favored to win the C-D division in the Catholic League, with the possibility for more in March.

Key players- 6’4″ senior forward Jake Lipetzky, 6’0″ junior point guard Anthony Brown.

 

 

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Mayor’s Notebook: On The Come Up Tigers

30 Nov

 

Davion_WilliamsI stumbled across Davion Williams at a local travel team’s 16u tryout.  Mr. Williams was by far the best player in the gym.  Who was this kid?  Where did he come from?  Word was that he was hailed from McBride.  Knowing there was a McBride, Michigan, I thought that seemed kind of far just to travel for a workout.  But then it struck me, McBride Middle School in Belleville, Michigan.  Davian Williams was an eighth grader holding his own against players two to three years older than him.

That Summer, Williams played up a grade on the Michigan Warriors 15u team.  Williams averaged around 16 points and seven rebounds a contest.  However, it was in July where Davion flourished, leading his team to final four appearances at prestigious tournaments such as the Brawl for the Ball and the Spiece GRBA Nationals.  It was clear this kid had the potential to develop into a standout for an ailing Belleville program.

In his first high school game, Davion poured in 25 points for Belleville in a comeback win against rival Ypsilanti Lincoln.  Williams assumed the role as sixth man for the Tigers, but started on occasion in his first year en route to 10 points, four assists, and four rebounds a night.

Known primarily for his athleticism entering high school, Davion has rounded out a complete skill-set.  He can now take defenders off the dribble, in addition to developing solid form and consistent range with his perimeter game.  However, Williams’ greatest attribute is a desire to compete on the defensive end of the floor, a must in order to play for Belleville head man Adam Trumpour.  A pleasant combination of both strength and agility, the 6’3″ Williams can guard up to three positions on the floor and equally effective at each.

While Davion is a gym rat himself, Coach Trumpour also deserves a tremendous amount of credit for taking the time to work with a young Williams and develop into a bonafide division one college level two guard.  Coach Trump says Mississippi State, Xavier, Michigan, Michigan State and recently Pitt have made repetitive contact with Davion, while Oakland, Eastern Michigan, and U of D Mercy already extended offers.

Davion enters his tenth grade year as the leader for a particularly young but talented Tiger team.  Belleville laid the foundation as a program in 2014-2015.  Besting rival Romulus for the first time in four years, but fell to the Eagles in the opening round of the MHSAA district tournament.  Look for Belleville to continue their upward trajectory as a force in the highly competitive I-94 corridor on the shoulders of Williams, as he certainly has the Tigers on the come up.

Contributed by Adam Troia

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Mayor’s Notebook: Reggie Butler’s Big Man Camp

19 Nov

Former Xavier Musketeer legend Reggie Butler held another Big Man Camp recently.  These camps draw good talent from around Michigan.  Butler’s main focus is on establishing position on the block, leverage, footwork, and low-post moves.  One thing campers know when it comes to Big Man camps is to get down to work.  Just ask Xavier Tillman and Austin “Big Country” Davis.  And current Kent State star Khaliq Spicer is one of Butler’s many standout students.

Top Performers

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Macomb Dakota’s Thomas Kithier looks for big sophomore campaign.

2018 Thomas Kiether 6-8 Macomb Dakota- Thomas keeps improving polishing up his low-post moves.  Now he is scoring over both shoulders, becoming a big time prospect.  Offers from Oakland and Detroit, with interest from Michigan, Michigan State, and Xavier

2017 Braeden Sackley 6-6 Macomb Dakota- Kithier will have a partner in crime this winter in the Macomb Dakota paint.  Sackley is a transfer from North Carolina with a stop in Toronto, Canada last year.  Sackley has a good jumper from the outside with plenty of bounce.  This camp will help him eat on the inside.

2017 Nate Brooks 6-6 1/2 North Farmington- A transfer from Georgia, Mr. Brooks has long arms and a knack for rebounding.  This guy will be trouble on the glass for the OAA league per Mayor.

2016 Logan Ryan 6-7 Canton- Don’t know how this guy is still on the board in the 2016 class.  Ryan had his passing on display dropping dimes from the high post show the ability to step out as well

2017 Reed Sellers 6-8 Milford- Reed needs to add weight, but it doesn’t appear he’s done growing though.  If he keeps working with Butler, Sellers will have some big games ahead of him.

Carl Bow Jr. 6-0 Hazel Park- Bow is a guard, he was there just working feeding bigs.  Bow has gotten noticeably bigger physically and added bounce to his game.  Look out for him and Mr. Hearns at Hazel Park this year as they both hold division one offers only as sophomores.

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Ty Groce Commits to Northeastern

6 Nov

14195551-standardThis dog is ready to run with the upstart Huskies.

Ypsilanti Lincoln’s Ty Groce has made it offical.   After coming back from a visit from Boston, Ty sat down with his mom Marion (a former Ferris State Bulldog), and minutes later broke the news.  Big Ty will be attending Northeastern next year.

Groce had a strong season for Splitter Nation last year, averaging 14 points and six rebounds per-game.  The decision ultimately came down to Duquesne, Rice, and Northeastern.  The visit to Northeastern is where Ty fell in love.

“I like the old style feel to the campus,” said Groce, “the Northeastern basketball family, and the school’s strong commitment to academics.”

Groce at a long and lean 6-8 is one of Michigan’s top seniors.   His ability to step out and make the three-ball and get points in the paint make him a perfect fit for Coach Bill Cohen’s up-tempo style of play.  Northeastern is a program on the rise going 23-12 last year and winning both the Colonial regular season and tournament championships.  The Huskies made their first tournament appearence since 1991 in 2015,  and gave Norte Dame a scare losing in the second round of the NCAA tournament 69-65.  The Huskies have held colonial regular season title 2 of the last 3 years.

Ty credits assistant Brain McDonald for being the point man on his recruitment, and hopes to contribute as a freshman for the Huskies.  Until then, he will lead Splitter Nation into battle this winter.

Contributed by Adam Troia

Photo via MLive

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Mayor’s Notebook: The Empty Halls of “The ‘Run”

24 Oct

WillowRunHighSchoolFlyersbrick-thumb-200x188-115753Detroit, Flint, Saginaw, and Lansing are cities noted as hotbeds for prep basketball talent in Michigan.  However, one area with an unappreciated tradition of excellence is the Willow Run portion of Washtenaw County.  Due to funding issues, Willow Run Community Schools dissolved in the late 2000s, with students re-zoned to multiple school districts along the I-94 Corridor.  While open, the Flyers repeatedly fielded a stout ball club and produced the likes of Jessie Davis (now coach at Ypsilanti Lincoln), Dion & Jason Drake, Tony Jackson, Marcus Anthony, and Donvell Patterson during the 1980s and 90s.

Transitioning into the 21st century, Willow Run potentially could have been a top program in the state if it not for the various enrollment standards set by school boards along the region.

After careful review and investigation, here are a couple possible combinations the could have happened at Willow Run.

A Dynasty That Could Have Been

The Trees

Jaylen Johnson 6-8 2014 Power Forward Ypsilanti (Louisville)- Starting at Louisville, Johnson was a Mr. Basketball candidate his senior year and one of the most nationally coveted prospects for the 2014 class.

Justin Tillman 6-8 2014 Power Forward Detroit Pershing (VCU)- Spent his freshman campaign at Willow Run, before transferring to Detroit Consortium and Pershing.  There was no better back-line defensive stopper in the state than Tillman his junior and senior campaigns.

Jamal Poplar 6-7 2014 Wing River Rouge & Various Prep Schools- Tillman and Johnson would both be forces on the interior, now add Poplar.  Poplar started at Willow Run as a freshman, with stops at John Glenn and River Rouge in Michigan and eventually leaving the state prior to his senior year.  His talent and potential were never the issue.  A tough cover due to versatility on the offensive end of the floor.

The Milan State Champion Duo

Nick Perkins 6’7″ 2015 Power Forward Milan (Buffalo)- This ferocious lefty was given the nickname “Baby Z-Bo” with resemblance of Zach Randolph for the Memphis Grizzlies; the MAC is about to find out why for themselves.

Latin Davis 6’1″ 2015 Point Guard Milan (Youngstown State)- A 1,000 point scorer in his high school career, Latin stood out in the 2014 state championship with a state-record seven three-pointers, the most for a final.

More Pieces to the Puzzle

Mike Bruce 6’4″ 2016 Combo Guard Ypsilanti- His best basketball is ahead of him. A quiet junior season at Belleville should be followed by a breakout senior year at Ypsilanti.

The next two are debatable about whether or not they would have been Willow Run Flyers.  They are from the Sumpter area, not too far from the old Willow Run High School.

Corey Allen 6’4″ 2016 Combo Guard Ypsilanti (U of D Mercy)- Physical, aggressive and brute define Mr. Allen’s game.  When his shoulders get square to the basket, put two points on the board.

Xavier Cochran 6-5 2015 Wing Ann Arbor Huron (Owens CC)- Heard Cochran went the private school route.  But what if?  Cochran had a stellar career at Huron, and is now a division one prospect waiting in the reigns at Owens.

A Couple Young Bucks

Josh Perkins 6-6 2018 Power Forward (Brother of Nick Perkins)

Garrett Gardette 5-10 2017 Point Guard Ypsilanti Arbor Prep

James “Big Game” Davis 6-0 2017 Combo Guard Ypsilanti

I am sorry if this piece causes controversy regarding the enrollment of the aforementioned student-athletes at any of the said schools.  This was only to create attention for a talent-rich section of the state.  These possible teams would have been something to watch.  Instead the halls and trophy cases of Willow Run remain empty.

-The Mayor

Special thanks to Dre Gardette, Rockey Black, and Nate “The General” Oats.

Contributed by Adam Troia

 

 

Mayor’s Notebook: Owens Jamboree Recap

15 Oct

First off, I would like to extend a gracious thanks to Owens coaches Keith Raine and Dave Clarke for the invite.  It was chow time for this hoop junkie in more ways than one.  Four courts of competitive games for six-plus hours, it was time to eat.

Top Teams

Schoolcraft- This squad was loaded last year and enjoyed a deep playoff run, finishing sixth in the national tournament.  The new-look Ocelots have several new faces for head man Abe Mashhour and his line of all-star assistants Mike Allie and Corey McKendry.  One key to their success was the up-tempo style, which was a lot of fun to watch.  What will be the Ocelots’ keys to success this year?

Owens- The Express added a great deal of size especially, on the wings with Charles Penn 6-7, Brain Walker 6-6, Xavier Cochran 6-6, and Derrik Jamerson 6-5.   Coach Clarke will have plenty of match-up problems this winter.

Mott- Not the tallest team in attendance, but Coach Schmidt year after year has scrappy guards that will guard the length of the court.  Lorenzo Collier, Diandre Wilson, and St. Bonaventure transfer Jalen Adams will be a solid trio this season.

Top-Performers

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Jordan Blount

Jordan Blount Spire Academy Geneva, Ohio 6-7 Wing- Jordan is in his first year of post-grad ball.  Originally from Ireland, Blount is an excellent passer with good court-vision.  He continually knocked down open threes and his hustle was infectious to his teammates.  Blount recently visited Valparaiso, and has interest from Georgia Tech, Toledo, Baylor, and Ole Miss.

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Lorenzo Collier

Lorenzo Collier Mott 6-4 Guard- Can get end to end in a heartbeat.  Finished well after contact on his way to rack. A low-major steal with upside as he continues to progress his guard skills.

Derrik Jamerson Owens 6-5 Wing- Michigan knows this kid is a knock-down three-point specialist, but the Owens staff has made it a point to round out Jamerson’s game.  His foot-work and laterally speed has greatly improved, and he showed signs of scoring not solely with the three.  Holds an IPFW offer with more on the way.

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Diandre Wilson

Diandre Wilson Mott 6-3 Guard- Must be pretty good to come all the way to Flint via Fort Lauderdale, Florida.  Consistently made tough shot after contested shot with numerous defenders draped on him in the lane and at the rim.  Division one talent and attitude schools want in a scoring lead-guard.

Dilyn Good Owens 6-9 Power Forward- Good is a sophomore, and at the community college level that usually indicates a veteran.  And with so many freshman and first year players on Owens Good played with poise and control.  He projects as a stretch-four at the moment as he did work on the outside, but strong enough to bang with bulkier opponents.  Understands spacing and where to be on the floor.

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R.J. Coil

R.J. Coil Schoolcraft 6-9 Center- “I need a big” was the common theme out of most of the coaches present at the jamboree.  Mr. Coil is not short of 6-9, and he is no stick by any means.  Really active on the glass and did a good job scoring on put-backs without plays called for him.  Red-shirted a season ago at Marist.

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Kash Blackwell

Kash “Money” Blackwell Cuyahoga CC 6-4 Guard- Mr. Kash has definitely got some dog in his game.  Soild scorer with a good mid-range feel.  Hit the glass well from the guard spot as well.

Ja'Christian Biles

Ja’Christian Biles

Ja’ Christian “Rocket Man” Biles 6-3 Schoolcraft Guard- “Rocket Man” can definitely fly.  However, he had his outside game on display Sunday nailing the threes consistently with his pure stroke. This makes him a really tough cover because he can make you the THAT GUY underneath the basket in his highlight reel.  Mid-major plus no doubt.  Love his motor and energy on both ends of the court.

Bryan Collins 5-10 Schoolcraft Guard- Lito Booth has departed Schoolcraft after one season.  Collins will more than likely fill the role left by Booth as lead point guard and pressure defender.  With teams opting to focus attention on Biles, Collins will get a good amount of open looks this year.  He made more than he missed on Sunday.

Xavier Cochran

Xavier Cochran

Xavier “X” Cochran 6-5 Owens Wing- Recently picked up an offer from Bethune-Cookman.  More are on the way with some added development and seasoning in a college program.  A little streaky on the day, but the upside is there as a wing with size that can handle and score.

Other Strong Performers On The Day

Keion Farrington Mott 6-5 Forward

Tyrese Searles Owens 6-3 Point Guard

James Kodet Lansing 6-4 Forward

Charles Penn Owens 6-7 Forward

Contributed by Adam Troia

 

 

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Mayor’s Notebook: Top Uncommitted Seniors

8 Oct

Seniors available as of 10/8/15

Karmari Newman 6-3 shooting guard Detroit East English

Call him knock-down.  Newman is a lefty marksman that excels playing off-the-ball and snipping from beyond the arch.  High ceiling as body fills out.

Schools interested: Cleveland State, Buffalo, George Mason, Duquesne, Eastern Michigan, St. Bonaventure, Robert Morris

Justin Turner 6’2″ combo guard Detroit Renaissance

Dynamic three-level scoring guard with college-ready size and skill set.  A type of guard a school can run an offense through with his ability to create his own shot with or without the ball.  Hope he stays healthy this year.

Schools interested: U of D Mercy, Kent State, Eastern Michigan, Western Michigan, Toledo, Oakland, Central Michigan, Fairfield.

Ty Groce 6-8 forward Ypsilanti Lincoln

Unreal potential.  Presents a multitude of dilemmas for defenses at 6-8.  Can step out a little, and put it on the floor.  Needs to play hard all the time and beef up a little.

Schools interested: Illinois State, Oakland, Rice, U of D Mercy, Akron, Toledo, Cornell, Central Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Northeastern, Kent State, Buffalo.

Dwight Burton 6’2″ combo guard Detroit Delta Prep

July’s biggest stock riser with the Michigan Playmakers.  Might have the fastest first step in Michigan with ability to blow past defenders and score in mid-range.  Still learning a feel for the game.  Has only played organized basketball since ninth grade.

Corey Allen 6-2 combo guard Ypsilanti 

Physical, aggressive, down-hill attacking guard for Steve Brooks’ Grizzlies.  Proved in July he would be a solid mid-major get.

Richard Talley 5-10 point guard Detroit Renaissance

Pesky defender that will fit in well at whatever defense a college wants to run.  Holds an offer from the Northwood (MI).  Absolute steal for any division II school at this point.

James Towns 5-9 point guard Detroit Henry Ford

The heart and soul of the Trojans.  Towns will be relied on to score a great deal this season.  Aggressive above the rim finisher and improving perimeter game.  Like Talley, his strength is ballhawking defense.  U of D Mercy has made Towns the main Titan point guard prospect in 2016.

Emmanuel Gildo 6-5 forward Lansing Waverly

Kid has some serious bounce.  Most impressive player at Bankhoops minicamp.  Dunks, rebounds, and overall dominated the paint.

Dylan Carl 6-10 center Alma

Vegetables, milk, and iron will help take his game to the next level.

Schools interested: U of D Mercy, IPFW.

Logan Ryan 6-8 forward Canton

Consistency on 15-20 foot jumper made Ryan an intriguing look at for small schools towards the end of July.  Getting a little bit nastier and embracing the dirty work it takes to be a successful scholarship player.  On the verge of division II but a nice steal for a division III or NAIA with exceptional grades.

Schools interested: Albion, Adrian, Alma, Madonna, U of M Dearborn, Goshen, Lake Forest.

Calvin Blaydes 6-6 forward Belleville

Runs the floor like a deer, and leaps like a pogo stick.  Ozzing with potential with some more seasoning and work by Coach Trump.

Schools interested: Lake Superior State, Northwood, Rochester, Barton CC..

Stephen “The Falcon” Umfress 6-3 wing Monroe St. Mary

For a guard, he jumps out of the gym.  Maybe if the school’s football team threw a little more he could help out at wide receiver.  Good teammate and kid to have in a program.

Brent Davis 6-3 guard Plymouth

Division I athletic ability illustrated with his 44-inch vertical.  Struggles to shoot it at times, but excels in transition when attacking the rack.  Lock him in a gym and watch what he looks like from now in two or three years.

Don’t forget about:

Kyle Hayes 6-8 forward Ypsilanti Arbor Prep

Terrance Sewell 6-2 guard Detroit Northwestern

Armani Tinsley 5-10 guard Detroit Western

Kareem Murray 5-10 guard Detroit Western

Nate Moore 5-9 guard Saginaw Arthur Hill

Ethan Dixon 6-6 forward Detroit Cornerstone

Ja’Myrin Jackson 6-0 guard Lansing Eastern

Dequan Powell 5-11 shooting guard Detroit Loyola

Ojani Echevarria 5-8 guard Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills

Jeremiah Richard 5-9 guard Kalamazoo Central

Anthony McInstosh 6-0 guard Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills

Billy Thomas 5-10 guard North Farmington

Justin Penn 6-0 point guard Ferndale University

Mike Littlejon 5-10 guard Muskegon

Jaton Gunn 6-1 guard Benton Harbor

Curtis Dawson 5-10 guard Benton Harbor

Tabin Throgmorton 6-3 wing Clarkston

Luster Johnson 5-11 guard Consortium

Hunter Page 6-0 guard Parma

James Jenkins 6-7 forward Hazel Park

Joan Andoni 6-3 shooting guard Livonia Churchill

C.J. Marshall 6-0 guard Macomb Dakota

Rayjon Williams-Jackson 6-0 Ypsilanti

Sameer Jabbo 6-5 forward Bedford

Ryan Stevens 6-0 point guard Lowell

Andrew Kline 6-0 point guard Waterford Our Lady

Contributed by Adam Troia

 

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Mayor’s Notebook: A Pope Becomes a Cardinal

28 Sep

CPtT1aSUwAAc6EVRahsaan “Moot” Pope made it offical.  Pope, a senior 6-5 wing from Romulus High School, verbally committed to Saginaw Valley State of the GLIAC.  Moot started his prep career at rival Belleville for two years, with one campaign on varsity.  Then he took his skills across infamous Hannan Road, where he said he felt more apart of a family at Romulus.  Last year as a junior, he averaged nine points, five rebounds, and five assists per-game.  Pope had always been on the minds of college coaches, but he certified himself as a scholarship player after a strong Summer with the Michigan Warriors.  Come, July a familiar face followed the Warriors around the circuit.  It happened to be SVSU assistant coach Chin Nwachukwu, AKA Chin-a-Doodle.  Now Coach Chin has told me for several years, if I believe a player is good he would let The Mayor know about it.

Pope went on an unofficial visit to the University Center campus about a month ago, when he was gathering interest from IPFW and Grand Valley State at the time.  Rahsaan later returned on an offficial visit in mid-September.  He felt a strong connection toward the campus, gym accessability, and team/family atsomsphere.  Former Milan standout and current Cardinal junior forward C.J. Turnage helped introduce Pope to the SVSU family.  Finally, head coach Randy Baruth laid a out a challenge to Moot.  Put in the work and raise his game to a new level come Pope’s freshman season.  Rashaan is not the kind of player that backs down!

That is a rap.

-Mayor

Contributed by Adam Troia

Special thanks to Romulus head coach Jarret Smith for assistance on the piece.

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