Sumner Decides on Xavier

13 May

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Detroit Country Day has been a mecca for high school basketball in Metro Detroit. Former greats include Chris Webber and Shane Battier, to recents who have put on the Yellow Jacket jersey such as Ray McCallum and Amir Williams. And adding a new chapter to the history of the school is C/O 2014 PG Edmond Sumner. Sumner, who competes for the EYBL team The Family, recently took a visit down to Xavier the weekend of May 4th, which pretty much put a bow on top of his recruitment with Xavier. “They have been on me the longest,” said Sumner, “and made a priority unlike other schools,” who reportedly chose between the Musketeers and the Minutemen of UMass.

Don’t think that just because Sumner is going to a smaller school means he doesn’t have game, this guy can play and had high major coaches watching. He single-handedly took over multiple playoff games in the postseason leading Country Day to a Class B crown, including a remarkable 30 point three steal performance in the semi-final victory over Cadillac. He has even continued that high level of play into the early EYBL season, averaging 12.7 points a game and dishing out 40 assists so far. Sumner wanted attend a school that fits his play style, and that school is Xavier because “At most schools they play only one point [guard], at Xavier, they play two point guards and they give them a lot of freedom.”

As far as Sumner’s game is concerned, he is hands down one of the most exciting guards to watch operate in the state. Edmond excels in the open court with great speed and court vision, with the ability to finish at the rim despite a slender frame. To go along with very quick and steady three point jump shot. All of these are skills that Xavier will need to compete in the first season for the newly formed Big East Conference.

Follow me on Twitter: @mdhsathletics

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Following in His Brother’s Footsteps. Romulus’ Kris Clyburn

12 May

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Every year, the Romulus Eagles always have Division One college talent.  This year, it was a quartet of seniors, Jalon Plummer [Youngstown State], Leo Edwards [Louisiana Tech], Wes Clark [Missouri], and E.C. Matthews [Rhode Island].  In years past, the school has produced Ray Lee [C/O 2012 Eastern Michigan] and Justin Moss [C/O 2011 Toledo].  With all this talent comes great success!  The Romulus Eagles make it to the State Championships at the Breslin Center just about every year and this year 2013, the team captured its first state title since 1986 defeating Detroit Southeastern in the championship game.  However, there is something more than basketball at Romulus.  It’s the life lessons; such as hard work and perseverance that are instilled in the players by the Romulus coaches.  And this has had an impact on the lives of a pair of two brothers, Will and Kris Clyburn.

Going back a couple of years, Will Clyburn was a member of the 2008 class at Romulus High School.  Will Clyburn was often overlooked when scouts came into the building to watch Romulus compete, even though he averaged double-figures scoring wise each game that season.  And at the end of his senior season, Will only received one offer, from Marshalltown Community College in Iowa.  He made the best of it by working hard, a thing that Will admits to not accomplishing in the early stages of his high school career.  Will ultimately received a scholarship after two years at Marshalltown to attend the University of Utah for the 2010-2011 season.  Will had a tremendous season for the Utes!  He averaged 17 points a game  and hauled down 8 rebounds per game.  After the season ended, Will decided to transfer and sit out a year in order to play at Iowa State.  Will came back better than ever when he was allowed to play for the Cyclones.  Although his scoring went down, Clyburn was a vital contributor toward leading Iowa State to an at-large birth in the 2013 NCAA tournament.  And far as the draft goes, Will is projected by many to be a late second round selection.

Will’s pathway to college has not been easy.  But his example has taught many athletes that when you work hard, great things can be achieved.  Will is a role model to his younger brother, Kris, a rising senior at Romulus High School who competes for the Michigan Warriors AAU team.  One major thing Kris admires of his older brother is his work ethic.  “When he got to college, he worked even harder because he felt like he should prove [something to ] everybody that doubted him wrong,” said Kris whose plans include, “For the offseason, I need to live in the gym.”  The two, according to Kris, are mirror images of each other on the court, acknowledging that both are very versatile and do all the intangibles, the only thing differing is that Will is right handed.

Kris is yet to receive an offer, but has various D1 schools showing interest.  Kris can look up to Will’s arduous recruiting process for guidance during a difficult time for a any high school basketball player.  “I know what I need to do and expect to try and be a successful college basketball player,” says Kris.  Of goals he has set for the AAU season, one that will make anybody affiliated with the Romulus High School basketball team happy, is that he is going to “Practice on bringing home hardware,” for the Michigan Warriors this Summer, “because we plan on winning another State TItle [for Romulus] this year.”  A goal that can only be accomplished by hard work.  A task that is not unfamiliar to the Clyburn brothers.

Follow me on Twitter: @mdhsathletics

Follow Kris on Twitter: Kris_Clyburn21

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Interview with Ricky Watson of Grosse Pointe North

8 May

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Ricky is a 5’10”, 165 lbs junior poing guard who attends Grosse Pointe North High School and competes on Team Indiana for AAU.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some athletes you model your game after?

Ricky Watson: Trey Burke, and Keith Appling.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: How do you feel your high school season went?

Ricky Watson: My high school season was alright, (10-11) [record]. We took a bitter first round loss to Lakeview in the first round of districts but we battled a lot of injuries this season including myself.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some skills you have and areas of your game that are coming up?

Ricky Watson: My best asset is I’m very crafty, I can get to the basket whenever & I have a strong mid range shot. My jump shot extended out to the three-point line is getting better & my ability to react quickly to what the defense gives me.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: How do you think this AAU season is going to shape out for you?

Ricky Watson: I think it’s going to shape out good. I hope I can rack up some more interest and hopefully an offer.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some goals of your this off-season?

Ricky Watson: Just to get stronger and more explosive.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What can scouts expect out of you and your team this summer?

Ricky Watson: They can expect me to play hard, and give my all every possession. And to win a lot of games.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some schools you dream of playing for?

Ricky Watson: Michigan State. Growing up that is the only school I watch.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some intangibles you have?

Ricky Watson: Just very intense competitor, and I hate losing!!

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What schools have shown interest in you so far?

Ricky Watson: Northwood, U of D [Mercy], Iowa State, has sent me mail. Findlay and Bowling Green.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: How do you see your skills translating to the college game?

Ricky Watson: I play pretty fast up temp pace. I think it would translate pretty well.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What makes you different from other point guards with similar skills of yours?

Ricky Watson: I ‘m fearless! I’ll never back down from any challenge.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What will go into picking a school for you?

Ricky Watson: Atmosphere, how the coaches treat me, and will I be successful the next four years.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What will a coach and a program be getting out of a player like you?

Ricky Watson: Hard work and dedication. Knowing I will give my all every time I’m on the court.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: Expectations for next high school season and remainder of AAU season?

Ricky Watson: To win a district title, and make all state. And hopefully get an offer from a good mid-major school.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What role do you see yourself playing in college?

Ricky Watson: Hopefully I can come in as a staring PG, but if not just play my role until it’s time.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What is a fun/interesting fact about you?

Ricky Watson: I like to ski.

Follow me on Twitter: @mdhsathletics

Follow Ricky on Twitter: @SlickRick_

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Weekend Recap 5/6/13

6 May

It was a busy weekend this previous weekend as some of Michigan’s last few remaining  unsigned seniors decided on where they will be playing next year.

Sam McClendon 6’0″ Guard (Orchard Lake St. Mary’s)

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The Eaglet point guard received interest from low D1 and D2 schools before finally deciding on Mt. Zion Prep in Durham, North Carolina.  It came as a surprise to most because it looked as if Sam was going to decide on a four year school, which will have to wait another year.  Sam will bring toughness, and a floor general to Zion who could have a very good prep season next year.

Highlights

 

Clark Bishop 6’0″ Combo Guard (Detroit Renaissance)

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The 1,000 point career scorer held a few D2 offers before heading on a visit to Florida Atlantic last weekend.  And on that visit it was decided Clark will become an Owl.  Bishop will be reuniting with former AAU teammate and fellow Detroit Public School League standout, D’Andre Johnson, “It’s going to be a blast to play with my former teammate/high school rival,” Clark said of the duo reuniting.   Clark is a hard nosed defender on the defensive end, but can light you up on the offensive end as well.  Solid jump shot, finishes at the rim and very dangerous in transition are all skills Clark will be bringing to FAU.  “I picked FAU because of the coaching staff,” said Bishop, “Coach Jarvis really made me feel at home.”

Highlights

Jalen Adams 6’4″ Wing Guard (Saginaw Arthur Hill)

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When the opportunity to play D1, take it.  That is what St. Bonaventure commit Jalen Adams did this weekend when he committed to play for the Bonnies.  Similar to Clark, Jalen took a visit this weekend and fell in love with the school, “The environment and I connect with the players and the education,” were reasons for the commitment according to Jalen.  Adams is hands down one of the best and electrifying athletes in the state.  The guy is reported to have a 40 inch vertical allowing him to explode out of the gym.  Jalen uses that athleticism not only for dunks, but rebounds as well.  Don’t forget other aspects of his offensive game.  Jalen finishes at the rim and is not afraid of contact, and gets by defenders with a nice spin move.  Working on a consistent perimeter jump shot game will be a key for him this summer.  Adams told me that he expects to play more of a two guard role this coming season.

Highlights

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Kyle Kuzma of Rise Academy

2 May

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Flint born Kyle Kuzma is emerging as one of the state’s top players but the funny thing is that Kyle does not attend school in Michigan, Kyle attends Rise Academy in Philadelphia (PA).  With that being said however, Kuzma still does play for one of Michigan elite basketball AAU teams, Dorians Pride.  Kuzma is a good combination of size and length with a jump shot that has a soft touch.  Also has good moves to take defenders of the dribble and finish at the rim.  Working on ball handling will a key for him this summer.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: List name, height, weight, position, AAU team and school team?

Kyle Kuzma: Kyle Kuzma, 6’8″, 200 lbs, wing, Dorians Pride, and Rise Academy.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some athletes that inspire your game?

Kyle Kuzma: I try to trace my game as Klay Thompson or Kevin Durant.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some skills you have as a basketball player and some up and coming areas of your game?

Kyle Kuzma: Some skills I have: being a good shooter, good court vision, great basketball IQ, rebounding.  Up and coming: defense has picked up, and working on my ball handling.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: How would you say your high school season went this year?

Kyle Kuzma: Went really well.  Averaged about 15 [points], and 8 [rebounds].  Helped my team win a lot.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What will be some keys to this AAU season to be sure scouts see the total package of your game?

Kyle Kuzma: Just to stay healthy, keep playing consistently, and just show coaches what I’m capable of doing.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What can scouts expect out of you and Dorians Pride this summer?

Kyle Kuzma: That when I’m on the court I will do whatever it takes to win and produce.  Whether it’s points rebounds etc.  And you can expect Dorians pride to be in the championship game of most tournaments every weekend.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: Now what are some schools that have offered or showed interest in you?

Kyle Kuzma:  Offered: Manhattan, Detroit, Oakland, Tennessee Tech, Bradley, Eastern Michigan, Northern Illinois, UC Irvine, Rhode Island, Utah, and Texas A&M.  Interest:  Missouri, VCU, Villanova, St. Johns, Boston College, USC, UAB, Iowa, and Cincinnati.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some dream schools to you?

Kyle Kuzma: Don’t really have one.  But I really like how Michigan plays.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some things you want out of a school that will go into your decision?

Kyle Kuzma: Being able to contribute as a freshman, a coaching staff that’s going to help me get to the next level, and a good education.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What will a coach be getting not only out of your skills, but also your intangibles?

Kyle Kuzma: He will be getting a good basketball IQ, solid defense and rebounding, and good leadership skills while I’m on the court.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: Why should a coach take you over a similar skilled athlete?

Kyle Kuzma: Because I can out smart opposite players, and some maybe be more talented than me but won’t outwork me.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: Goals for the AAU circuit and off-season?

Kyle Kuzma:  AAU: wins as many tournaments as we can.  And off-season goals are to get better and put some more weight.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What can fans and scouts expect out of you in the upcoming months?

Kyle Kuzma: More muscles added to my body and production on the court.

Metro Detroit High School Athleics: What is a fun/interesting fact about you?

Kyle Kuzma: That I’m a very out going person.  And I play a lot of video game!

Follow me on Twitter: @mdhsathletics

Follow Kyle on Twitter: kkuzma35

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Detroit Lefty Wing Chooses Texas

30 Apr

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Today, Detroit Pershing wing Martez Walker gave a verbal commit to become a University of Texas Longhorn.  Walker was recruited by schools such as Temple, Providence, Oakland, and UCF before ultimately deciding on Texas.  The lefty had a tremendous senior season, averaging a double-double en route to helping Pershing capture a City Championship.  The key turning point in Martez’s recruitment came just a couple weeks ago when Walker took a visit to Texas to tour the campus.  Walker said that the visit was fun, and enjoyed the relationship with the coaches he had while on that visit.

Walker will bring a high-volume shooter that excels in coming off any type of screen, as well as a solid scorer to Austin this upcoming season.  Some of the up-and-coming portions of his game will be to improve upon athleticism, as well as going right to create offense for himself.  No doubt Martez will have to work if he wants to receive playing time at a school that produces tremendous players like Kevin Durant.  Martez expects to work hard, play his style of game, and not try to do anything he can’t to in an attempt to impress the coaches.

As an avid supporter of the high school basketball, it makes me feel good when a kid accepts high major scholarship to continue their sport.  And this is Pershing High School we are talking about.  The school is an absolute basketball factory.  From the greats of Steve Smith to the recent products of Keith Appling and Derrick Nix, few schools in the area can compete with the Tradition of Pershing basketball.  Martez is now writing a chapter of his own to that story of success and will look to make a name of his own.

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Player Feature: De La Salle’s A.J. Turner

29 Apr

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Currently holding over 15 Division One offers as of now, Warren De La Salle 6’7″ wing A.J. Turner has established himself as one the most coveted prospects in the State of Michigan.  A.J.’s combination of size and length makes him a matchup nightmare on both sides of the court.  “Versatility is the best part of my game,” said Turner, “The fact that I can play three positions something that comes in handy.” With the rise of tall big men that can run the point like Kevin Durant in the NBA, and Otto Porter at Georgetown, A.J. looks to be right at home with similar skilled athletes.  Turner is a quality jump shooter with a fluid high arching release that has good rotation on the ball.  A.J. with his height to look over the defenders when passing, always seems to find the open man in the right spot to score the ball.  Was also the jump ball man for De La Salle this year even though he was a guard.

With no set decision time for Turner to decide on a school, this will be a quite interesting summer for Turner.  His AAU team Dorians pride is one of the best in Michigan.  The team almost every weekend travels outside of the state to attend some of the nation’s elite tournaments.  But that is not to say that A.J. will pick just any major program that comes to offer.  Turner is looking for a school that “develops players, fits my style of play, one that I can go to and play right away, and of course I would like to play in the NCAA Tournament wherever I go.

The one player that A.J. reminds me of is a Michael Carter-Williams, both are long lanky combo guards that can score and defend the ball.  When asked about the comparison,  A.J. did acknowledge that there are some similarities, “We both are very tall and are able to play the point guard position,” and “we both make great decisions with the ball.”  A.J. will look to improve upon “being able to defend all positions” this summer, to go along with at times this season being reluctant to score the ball.  He is a great player that needs to score the ball.  Whether it is with the jump shot or getting to the lane, coaches want a kid they can put the ball in the hands of and let them go to work.  But the main thing is that he is a team player that wants to get everybody on the court and lead them to a victory.

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Kyle Steward Picks Youngstown State

25 Apr

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Detroit Cass Tech 6’7″ forward Kyle Steward decided to commit to the Youngstown State this afternoon on the 25 of April, 2013.  Kyle was a transfer from Detroit Crockett last year after the school closed.  Instead of going to East English Village, Kyle decided to join fellow division one signees, DeAngelo Stewart and D’Andre Johnson, for his senior year in which the Technecians captured the PSL West division championship before bowing out to Pershing for the City Title.  Steward had a great season, averaging 14 points, eight rebounds and three assists per game

Kyle will be joining a 18-16 Penguin squad that finished 7-9 within the Horizon league and lost in the second round of the CIT Invitational.  Kyle had offers from various schools across the country, including Jacksonville (FL), Houston Baptist (TX), Rider (NJ), and Cleveland State in Ohio.  Kyle wanted to be a Penguin because “It was closer to home so all my family and friends could see me play.”

Other reasons why Kyle chose Youngstown is because of the connections he has within the coaching staff and the incoming recruiting class.  Steve Hall, an assistant on the team, attended Cass Tech in the late 80s before having a successful college career.  Including a couple stints in Detroit as a head high school coach.  “Coach Hall has been recruiting me since the 9th grade,” said Steward, who will have little difficulty moving into a college athlete.  To go along with a familiar coach, Steward will be joined by Romulus’ Jalon Plummer.  “Yeah that’s my guy,” Steward on Plummer, “I’ve known been knowing him basically forever.”  Steward will bring a long athletic frame, with the ability to guard multiple positions on the court, a tremendous rebounder, and a guy who can hit a perimeter shot or two.

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Player Profile: Redford Thurston’s Ray Croon

23 Apr

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Big, athletic scorer that can go off at any time for double digit scoring night.  Creates mis-match problems for smaller guards when playing the point.  Nice bounce and rebounding ability.

With a big summer in the EYBL, Ray could very well turn into a highly ranked prospect.  Right now with interest  coming from MAC schools.  Ray expects an offer to come really soon.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: Name, AAU team, weight, height, position, and graduation year?

Ray Croon: Ray Croon, The Family, 6’5″, 170 lbs, SG, 2014.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: Athletes you model your game after?

Ray Croon: Jamal Crawford, and Kevin Durant.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What was the best game you had this year?

Ray Croon: I had 38 points against Lake Shore in three quarters and sat the fourth quarter.  Also had six dunks that game.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some strengths you have to your overall game?

Ray Croon: I have a high IQ, I shoot really good and I’m very athletic.  I can also create a shot very easy.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some up and coming areas of your game?

Ray Croon: Me playing more of the point guard because I can handle the ball very well now.  Also I’m quick on my feet for rebounds.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some goals you have set for this off-season?

Ray Croon: Get some high major offers, move up in that ranking list, go to all of those exposure camps.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: How much does playing with The Family going to elevate your game playing the EYBL?

Ray Croon: It will a lot because it’s a high level game that I like to play.  And it makes me wanna work harder and it makes me more hungry.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: Could you describe your relationship with some your teammates like Edmond Sumner, Yante Maten, and Aaron Foster-Smith?

Ray Croon: We have a great relationship.  We are learning each others game and are building our chemistry.  But we are like brothers already.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some dream schools for you?

Ray Croon: Michigan, Syracuse, or Baylor.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What are some schools that have shown interest in you so far?

Ray Croon: Kent State, U of D (Mercy), Eastern Michigan, a ton of d2 schools.  Also Akron.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What do you think you can bring to a team at the next level?

Ray Croon: I can bring them someone who will be a lockdown defender, put points up, rebound and get WINS. I’ll sacrifice my body when needed.  I’m also a great leader I learn fast too.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: What would you say to a college coach on why they should want you for their team?

Ray Croon: I would tell them that I will do whatever it take.  I’ll always give 110% and I will improve.

Metro Detroit High School Athletics: Lastly, what is a fun/interesting fact about you?

Ray Croon: No comment.

Ray Croon posterizes defender

Follow me on Twitter: @mdhsathletics

Follow Ray on Twitter: @D1__Prospect

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C/O 2014 Combo Guards To Watch Summer 2013

22 Apr

Juwan Clark 5’11 (Romulus High)– Brother of Missouri commit Wes Clark.  Juwan is a streaky jump shooter, but has a nice fluid release.  However, Juwan plays with a high basketball IQ, and is always looking to get others involved in the offense.  Sees the floor extremely well and has good anticipation when a teammate is getting open.  Is one big summer away from having an outstanding senior season. Highlight link

Darrell Davis 6’3″ (Detroit Douglass)– One of the most dynamic guards in the state.  Solid in the driving portion of his game and is in the stage of developing a consistent perimeter jump shot.  Once Davis gets his left hand as deadly as his right, it will be a hard thing to stop.  Plays with high emotion.  Already with offers from Iowa and Iowa State.  But the majority of his offers coming from mid-majors. Early season highlights

A.J. Turner 6’7″ (Warren De La Salle)– Long and lanky athletic guard that can shoot, take you off the dribble, break you down on the fast break.  No slouch making plays for his teammates, delivers passes where a teammate is in a position to do something productive.  Some people compare him to a Michael Carter-Williams.  Has many MAC offers but Big Ten schools are starting to show more interest. Highlights

Kenny Carpenter 6’4″ (Cass Tech)– A long combo guard, Kenny is a quick release spot up shooter on the wing with range to three-point land.  Finishes at the rim not going away from contact.  Has a nice floater while attacking the basket as well.  Link to highlights

Mike Laster 6’3″(Cass Tech)- Nice mid-ranger shooter that can create offense for himself off a high pick-and-roll.  Working on ball-handling and a go to offensive move will be keys for him this off-season.  Highlights

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