http://nychoops.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=815981When you think of how Abraham Lincoln became the NYS Federation State Champs one automatically assumes it was because of Lance Stephenson or James Padgett. However, there's one important link in the chain that often gets overlooked.
Darwin "Buddha" Ellis
Standing 5'8" and tough as nails is the Railsplitters combo guard Darwin "Buddha" Ellis. Ellis is not only a lights out three point shooter but is a defensive specialist. "When we need the best person on the team guarded we use Buddha," says Lincoln head coach Dwayne "Tiny" Morton.
Known for hitting big shots and shutting down big time players, Ellis is described by Morton as "Nate Robinson" (of the NY Knicks) because he's not only quick but tough.
"Buddha provides the intangibles to a team. When we play, they can't guard both him and Lance," touts Coach Morton alluding to Ellis' ability to score.
This past season, Ellis averaged 8 points per game plus 3 assists, then stepped it up in the playoffs to 12 points per game and 4 assists.
Coach Morton is focused on getting his junior combo guard ready for the next level saying, "Right now I'm trying to get him to think the game, because right now he goes on his just reaction."
During the spring/summer, Ellis plays for Coach Morton's AAU team, the Juice All-stars. "He played good at the Bob Gibbon TOC and extremely well at the GBOA tournament, " says Morton.
Up next for the Juice All-stars is the Rumble in the Bronx at Fordham University.
Ellis is getting looks from Seton Hall, St. John's and George Mason. Coach Morton thinks he'd be a steal for a mid-major.