6th Man of St. John's Basketball
St. John's Red Storm => In The Jungle... => Topic started by: mjdinkins on July 12, 2010, 07:48:11 PM
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I know some of you have been waiting for an update from one of the most (if, not THE MOST) prestigious AAU tournaments in the land.
I had a pretty good time, as usual. But, it's that much more of a better experience when there is a chance the blue-chippers are a possibility. Without further adieu....
I'll say today was more of a focus on watching Johnnie targets.... So, I had a chance to watch Nick Johnson, Jabari Brown, Josiah Turner, Myles Mack, Kyle Anderson, Derrick Randall, Omar Calhoun, Jevan Thomas and the likes.
First of all, I was quite impressed with Johnson and Brown on today. There was a portion of the game where both players asserted themselves.
During one span of the first half.... Johnson hit a three-pointer; a mid-range jumper; caught an alley-oop and forced a jump ball situation when he nearly blocked a shot. The alley-oop was a thing of beauty.... He was running the break and pointed up (towards the basket) and I believe it was Turner who tossed it up and Johnson caught it backward and flushed it with two hands.... Gracefully. It was a thing of beauty.
Brown had a decent first half.... But, there was also a string in the second half where he imposed he will on the game. The score was a little tight, as Alabama Challenge had cut the Soldiers double-digit lead to within 5 or 6 points. Then, Brown took over.... He had a dunk and then, proceeded to nail back-to-back treys. The last one had to be from like 25'. I looked towards Rico Hines (I'll talk more about Hines later) and he could do nothing other than laugh. Incredible range!
Turner had a so-so game, as he was more a facilitator than looking for his shot. The few shots he did take were errant. But he did nail a sweet pull-up trey on the break and a mid-range shot from the free-throw line. Nevertheless, the Soldiers are deep and talented and I expect to see them in the finals at the Peach Jam.
Myles Mack and Kyle Anderson.... Where do I start? Heck! You could place Kyle at the point and allow Mack to play the 2. A 6'7" point guard and a 5'9" shooting guard. Backwards, but effective.
Mack is gonna make some coach and fan(s) of the program he signs with very happy. He just has a solid feel for the game and does the small things in aiding his team. Basically, the NJ Playaz are playing with two (very effective) point guards, when Mack and Anderson is on the floor. Anderson doesn't shoot the ball like Mack, but he's very solid player and has an incredible IQ for the game.
There was a sequence in their rout today (can't remember who they were playing now, lol) where Mack and Anderson took turns carving up the 'D.' It was like an artist on canvas..... Thorough efficiency. Anderson broke the 'D' by spinning then going behind his back and making the right pass at the last moment for an easy dunk. Mack cross his man over then made a spin then dished it off to Derrick Randall for an emphatic slam. Those were the last two possessions for the starters, as they emptied the bench. What a way to end your playing time for the morning!
Omar Calhoun didn't have the best game when I witnessed him play, but he was a gamer during the latter stages of the game. He hit a couple of treys and a mid-range jumper to keep the Gauchos in it against Howard Pulley. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough and they ended up going down.
Jevan Thomas plays for the 16u Gauchos.... I thought he played decent in spurts and not-so-hot in spurts. It might've been one of those games. He was trying to put the team on his back during the latter stages of the game, but he forced a couple of shots. One shot he was attempting to draw a foul on the trey (ala, Scottie Reynolds), but it came off as a forced shot. Hopefully, he continues to grow, as a player and become the player that he's capable of being one day.
Rico Hines.... I ran into Hines once the 2nd stanza of games were over or nearing the end. We casually shook hands and began to converse for several minutes. He was in the only coach attending the Peach Jam today, as Lavin and Chiles were recruiting in other parts of the country. They'll both be there on tomorrow.
Hines is very, impressed by Lavin. I guess so.... He was recruited by Lavin to play at UCLA. LOL Hines said (paraphrased), "Lavin is REAL GOOD! Man! That guy can recruit!" He went on to say (paraphrase), "Lavin and Chiles are effective at what they do (recruiting)." Sounds good, if you ask me!
He also said, he is new at recruiting and getting into the groove of things. He also felt his strongest suit is "teaching." Pretty much what many of us thought about Hines from the start. He feels the staff has the "right balance" and "believe things are gonna turn around soon."
I also believe we may have some positive news in the near future, but that is for another day. All in all, I had an enjoyable time and looking forward to tomorrow.
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Thanks MJ.
Keep the updates coming!
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Great update thanks for sharing
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No problem, jumpinjohnny and kjd!
I forgot to mention.... Hines had actually spotted me when I walked into the gym earlier this morning. He told me that he said to himself, "Hey! We have another coach I do not know about?" LOL I was sporting a black St. John's t-shirt with red lettering.
By the way, Chiles was up in Wisconsin targeting Jakarr Sampson.
Another thing of note: Ben Howland is wearing a boot on his right foot and is moving around rather moderately. He was sitting down in his chair (where the coaches sit) this morning and someone on the other side of the curtain scooted their seat back too far; too hard and rather quickly.
It caught Howland by surprise, as he couldn't move quick enough (probably, due to his foot) and he was knocked to the floor on his mug. He ended up being alright and a coach from Utah State helped him to his feet and patted him on the back, afterwards.
LOL I'm sorry for laughing, but it was kinda funny.
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Another thing of note: Ben Howland is wearing a boot on his right foot and is moving around rather moderately.
Let's hope he hurt his foot after kicking his refrigerator when he realized Remi will commit here after he gets cleared by the NCAA
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mj, nice work, man. It's nice to have people be able to report on recruits at the big events... keep it up, fellas.
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MJ...Have you seen Myles Davis yet?
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Appreciate it, peter! Yes, jumpinjohnny.... Davis had a huge game today. He was knocking down treys with regularity.
I, briefly spoke with Hines and Chiles, as Hines introduced me to Chiles. They were on their way out of the door to go grab something to eat. So, it was very brief. I'll catch up with those two on tomorrow.
Speaking, of Lavin.... I have a feeling Lavin believes a commitment may soon be imminent from one of the California recruits not named Jabari Brown and Josiah Turner.
I casually watched the games on today, as I was speaking with a few random spectators today. Nevertheless, still catching the action from time to time.
I was asked a question when I walked into the gymnasium today.... I had my program in my hand and the person asked, "Who is #2 for the NJ Playaz?" I immediately knew who it was without looking in my program and said, Myles Mack.
This particular person witnessed Mack play on last night.... He was very impressed with Mack. He was raving about Mack's game and how he was doing a number on Tyrone Johnson on last night. Granted, Johnson (he had 40 pts. in the game) was the player he also said willed the Team Final to the victory on last night in a double OT win.
Mack just continues to make plays.... He and Kyle Anderson were very instrumental in Myles Davis play on today. They continued to break down Spiece Indy's (Marquis Teague plays for Spiece) defense and allowed Davis great looks. And, Davis were knocking 'em down!
Remember, folk.... Mack is more than likely gonna be a 4-year player wherever he goes and he'll be an instrumental part and glue for a team. I know the staff are probably hoping they can get Quinn Cook or Jahii Carson to come in and play, but I sure hope they can nab Mack (whether, they get those guys or not). Maybe, he could be the pied-piper for Kyle Anderson. One can dream, right?
Hey, folk! I ran into Rodger Bohn of SLAM Magazine. I had never heard of the guy until today. We spoke at length and he ended up telling me some intriguing info. We were just talking about high school and collegiate hoops, along with how he was ready to break the monotony of going to the NIKE camps and finally see a different group of players play, ths summer. He's on his way to the NC Pro-Am League on Thursday and then he's headed to Vegas, afterwards.
So, I asked him about Chris Hill since he was going to the NC Pro-Am League in a couple of days.... He chuckled and said, we just exchanged texts (messages) a few minutes ago.
He was like (paraphrased), "Hill can play! Josh Pastner (Memphis head man) really want him, but isn't sure he'll be eligible. He his very long (like a 7'0" wingspan); can shoot it (recalled him hitting 6 treys one day); a great leaper; blocks shots and can board.... He still needs to work on his handle, but it's still decent enough, whereas it won't get him in much trouble."
He went on to say (paraphrased), "Who knows how long Lavin will get, if he doesn't win? The Big East is very competitive and if, I were a coach then I would take a chance on Hill.... IF, he's eligible. He (Hill) can play in the Big East."
Basically, Hill fell under the radar, as many of us probably know. I also believe he still has work to do, as well, as deal with the NCAA dragging their feet on the situation. Brohn watches plenty of games over the spring and summer (and, probably during the basketball season, as well), so I guess I'll take his word on Hill being someone who can help our team ascend up the ranks.
Nevertheless, I found his info to be pretty good and he mentioned, he'd look to catch up with me on tomorrow.
I started to hang around for the evening session (starts @ 6pm), but I had a couple of things I had to do, so I came back. Once again, I'm looking forward to another day in North Augusta.
By the way, the Peach Jam finals are being televised by ESPNU on Thursday.
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Once again great update MJ! Keep them coming
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Appreciate it, peter! Yes, jumpinjohnny.... Davis had a huge game today. He was knocking down treys with regularity.
I, briefly spoke with Hines and Chiles, as Hines introduced me to Chiles. They were on their way out of the door to go grab something to eat. So, it was very brief. I'll catch up with those two on tomorrow.
Speaking, of Lavin.... I have a feeling Lavin believes a commitment may soon be imminent from one of the California recruits not named Jabari Brown and Josiah Turner.
I casually watched the games on today, as I was speaking with a few random spectators today. Nevertheless, still catching the action from time to time.
I was asked a question when I walked into the gymnasium today.... I had my program in my hand and the person asked, "Who is #2 for the NJ Playaz?" I immediately knew who it was without looking in my program and said, Myles Mack.
This particular person witnessed Mack play on last night.... He was very impressed with Mack. He was raving about Mack's game and how he was doing a number on Tyrone Johnson on last night. Granted, Johnson (he had 40 pts. in the game) was the player he also said willed the Team Final to the victory on last night in a double OT win.
Mack just continues to make plays.... He and Kyle Anderson were very instrumental in Myles Davis play on today. They continued to break down Spiece Indy's (Marquis Teague plays for Spiece) defense and allowed Davis great looks. And, Davis were knocking 'em down!
Remember, folk.... Mack is more than likely gonna be a 4-year player wherever he goes and he'll be an instrumental part and glue for a team. I know the staff are probably hoping they can get Quinn Cook or Jahii Carson to come in and play, but I sure hope they can nab Mack (whether, they get those guys or not). Maybe, he could be the pied-piper for Kyle Anderson. One can dream, right?
Hey, folk! I ran into Rodger Bohn of SLAM Magazine. I had never heard of the guy until today. We spoke at length and he ended up telling me some intriguing info. We were just talking about high school and collegiate hoops, along with how he was ready to break the monotony of going to the NIKE camps and finally see a different group of players play, ths summer. He's on his way to the NC Pro-Am League on Thursday and then he's headed to Vegas, afterwards.
So, I asked him about Chris Hill since he was going to the NC Pro-Am League in a couple of days.... He chuckled and said, we just exchanged texts (messages) a few minutes ago.
He was like (paraphrased), "Hill can play! Josh Pastner (Memphis head man) really want him, but isn't sure he'll be eligible. He his very long (like a 7'0" wingspan); can shoot it (recalled him hitting 6 treys one day); a great leaper; blocks shots and can board.... He still needs to work on his handle, but it's still decent enough, whereas it won't get him in much trouble."
He went on to say (paraphrased), "Who knows how long Lavin will get, if he doesn't win? The Big East is very competitive and if, I were a coach then I would take a chance on Hill.... IF, he's eligible. He (Hill) can play in the Big East."
Basically, Hill fell under the radar, as many of us probably know. I also believe he still has work to do, as well, as deal with the NCAA dragging their feet on the situation. Brohn watches plenty of games over the spring and summer (and, probably during the basketball season, as well), so I guess I'll take his word on Hill being someone who can help our team ascend up the ranks.
Nevertheless, I found his info to be pretty good and he mentioned, he'd look to catch up with me on tomorrow.
I started to hang around for the evening session (starts @ 6pm), but I had a couple of things I had to do, so I came back. Once again, I'm looking forward to another day in North Augusta.
By the way, the Peach Jam finals are being televised by ESPNU on Thursday.
Bohn used to be at DE, but now he's at Slam-at least temporarily.
I'd be absolutely shocked if Quinn comes to STJ.
I think we have a shot at Mack, but watch out for Miami.
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Speaking, of Lavin.... I have a feeling Lavin believes a commitment may soon be imminent from one of the California recruits not named Jabari Brown and Josiah Turner.
The Pelle tolls for thee?
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Speaking, of Lavin.... I have a feeling Lavin believes a commitment may soon be imminent from one of the California recruits not named Jabari Brown and Josiah Turner.
The Pelle tolls for thee?
Or, maybe the two-sport star. :-X
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Speaking, of Lavin.... I have a feeling Lavin believes a commitment may soon be imminent from one of the California recruits not named Jabari Brown and Josiah Turner.
The Pelle tolls for thee?
Or, maybe the two-sport star. :-X
Lavin's Pump Bros connections coming in handy-maybe we can be their next KU
Amir Garrett would be a solid pickup and, hopefully, he can get in Nick Johnson's ear.
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Just got a note that the only team being monitored 24/7 by NCAA Compliance at the PJ is the Oakland Soldiers.
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Just got a note that the only team being monitored 24/7 by NCAA Compliance at the PJ is the Oakland Soldiers.
Ouch
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Just got a note that the only team being monitored 24/7 by NCAA Compliance at the PJ is the Oakland Soldiers.
Ouch
Same person said they got their doors blown off by Team Takeover from the DMV this morning. Turner was the Soldiers' best player. Takeover pulled their starters w/ 4 minutes to go to rest them for the next game (Metro Hawks). Gauchos, outside of Omar Calhoun, have been a joke for the first time in a while. They lost all five of their games.
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Just got a note that the only team being monitored 24/7 by NCAA Compliance at the PJ is the Oakland Soldiers.
Ouch
Same person said they got their doors blown off by Team Takeover from the DMV this morning. Turner was the Soldiers' best player. Takeover pulled their starters w/ 4 minutes to go to rest them for the next game (Metro Hawks). Gauchos, outside of Omar Calhoun, have been a joke for the first time in a while. They lost all five of their games.
Saw that about the Chos. Pretty surprising considering they had Nunez, Wilson and Stokes in addition to Omar.
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Just got a note that the only team being monitored 24/7 by NCAA Compliance at the PJ is the Oakland Soldiers.
Ouch
Same person said they got their doors blown off by Team Takeover from the DMV this morning. Turner was the Soldiers' best player. Takeover pulled their starters w/ 4 minutes to go to rest them for the next game (Metro Hawks). Gauchos, outside of Omar Calhoun, have been a joke for the first time in a while. They lost all five of their games.
Saw that about the Chos. Pretty surprising considering they had Nunez, Wilson and Stokes in addition to Omar.
Konchalski thinks that Nunez will be one of those players that never lives up to others' initial expectations. An assistant coach said he didn't work as hard as other kids. From a STJ perspective, Nunez is tight with Khem Birch, who I'd love for them to land.
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Just got a note that the only team being monitored 24/7 by NCAA Compliance at the PJ is the Oakland Soldiers.
Ouch
Same person said they got their doors blown off by Team Takeover from the DMV this morning. Turner was the Soldiers' best player. Takeover pulled their starters w/ 4 minutes to go to rest them for the next game (Metro Hawks). Gauchos, outside of Omar Calhoun, have been a joke for the first time in a while. They lost all five of their games.
Saw that about the Chos. Pretty surprising considering they had Nunez, Wilson and Stokes in addition to Omar.
Konchalski thinks that Nunez will be one of those players that never lives up to others' initial expectations. An assistant coach said he didn't work as hard as other kids. From a STJ perspective, Nunez is tight with Khem Birch, who I'd love for them to land.
From the little I saw at the Rumble of Nunez I can tell he has a switch that when it turns on- watch out. However it doesn't stay on for too long.
Agree about Birch. Landing Pelle and/or him in back to back years would be a coup.
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Lavin appears
http://twitter.com/jeffborzello/status/18541716924 (http://twitter.com/jeffborzello/status/18541716924)
[tweet]http://twitter.com/jeffborzello/status/18541716924
[/tweet]
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[tweet]http://twitter.com/jeffborzello/status/18551760952[/tweet]
http://twitter.com/jeffborzello/status/18551760952 (http://twitter.com/jeffborzello/status/18551760952)
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Just got a note that the only team being monitored 24/7 by NCAA Compliance at the PJ is the Oakland Soldiers.
Ouch
Same person said they got their doors blown off by Team Takeover from the DMV this morning. Turner was the Soldiers' best player. Takeover pulled their starters w/ 4 minutes to go to rest them for the next game (Metro Hawks). Gauchos, outside of Omar Calhoun, have been a joke for the first time in a while. They lost all five of their games.
Saw that about the Chos. Pretty surprising considering they had Nunez, Wilson and Stokes in addition to Omar.
Konchalski thinks that Nunez will be one of those players that never lives up to others' initial expectations. An assistant coach said he didn't work as hard as other kids. From a STJ perspective, Nunez is tight with Khem Birch, who I'd love for them to land.
Question. If your not the sleaveless guy then who is the sleaveless guy ? BTW thanks for all your updates. I love reading them
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Just got a note that the only team being monitored 24/7 by NCAA Compliance at the PJ is the Oakland Soldiers.
Ouch
Same person said they got their doors blown off by Team Takeover from the DMV this morning. Turner was the Soldiers' best player. Takeover pulled their starters w/ 4 minutes to go to rest them for the next game (Metro Hawks). Gauchos, outside of Omar Calhoun, have been a joke for the first time in a while. They lost all five of their games.
Saw that about the Chos. Pretty surprising considering they had Nunez, Wilson and Stokes in addition to Omar.
Konchalski thinks that Nunez will be one of those players that never lives up to others' initial expectations. An assistant coach said he didn't work as hard as other kids. From a STJ perspective, Nunez is tight with Khem Birch, who I'd love for them to land.
Question. If your not the sleaveless guy then who is the sleaveless guy ? BTW thanks for all your updates. I love reading them
The sleeveless guy goes by the handle of Boooooothe here.
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Some other tidbits from the Peach Jam....
- Brad Beal and Ben McLemore are equally impressive. Both can shoot it (Beal may shoot it a lil better); both are lengthy; has a pretty good handle; defend fairly well and does the intangible things to the game. Beal and McLemore (along, with the rest of the other St. Louis Eagles) disposed the Oakland Soldiers during last night's quarterfinals. They both also seem like good kids. When things didn't go their way or their teams way.... They acted humbly and just went on about their business.
- Anthony Davis may very, well be the #1 player in the Class of 2011 when it's all said and done.
- The ball must've been a grenade when Austin Rivers received it. As, he pretty much tossed it (the ball) up whenever he had the ball in his hands. You can clearly see he is capable of doing more things offensively (ie, getting his players the ball), but he can occasionally force things. Hone him in a bit and he'll be a solid NBA player player in the long run.
- James McAdoo could be overrated. Granted, he's a pretty good player, but he doesn't have much lift off the floor nor nothing to counter his lack of lift when I briefly saw him. Tony Parker (another highly-rated player from the 2012 class) of the Georgia Stars had his way with him during particular possession. Drop step and McAdoo-on-you. LOL McAdoo also had trouble a couple of times when more bouncy kids were attempting to block his shot. A good player, but maybe a bit overrated. We'll see.
- Keep an eye on Archie Goodwin.... He's a 2012 player out of Arkansas and he's the goods! I watched him play on yesterday afternoon, as he plays for with the 16u Arkansas Wings. I didn't know he was rated so highly, but I can see why after witnessing him on yesterday. A very, solid player.
- Michael Carter-Williams is a skinny kid, but he has pretty solid game. Granted, he had a couple of so-so games.... He also had a couple of bonanza-like games, as well. He really attacks the basket, but he's also capable of drilling treys and mid-range jumpers. Boeheim is getting a good one.
- The Johnnies could very, well use all of the remaining 'ships, if we end up getting on a roll and get some very, solid players. Yes, there is a chance we could end up no 'ships for 2012. Once again, it all depends on what kinda players we end up getting in the 2011 class. Remember, you'll always end up with a transfer or two or someone leaving early for the NBA. So, the 2012 class, as far as scholarship offers, might be a question mark down the road.
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Some other tidbits from the Peach Jam....
- Brad Beal and Ben McLemore are equally impressive. Both can shoot it (Beal may shoot it a lil better); both are lengthy; has a pretty good handle; defend fairly well and does the intangible things to the game. Beal and McLemore (along, with the rest of the other St. Louis Eagles) disposed the Oakland Soldiers during last night's quarterfinals. They both also seem like good kids. When things didn't go their way or their teams way.... They acted humbly and just went on about their business.
- Anthony Davis may very, well be the #1 player in the Class of 2011 when it's all said and done.
- The ball must've been a grenade when Austin Rivers received it. As, he pretty much tossed it (the ball) up whenever he had the ball in his hands. You can clearly see he is capable of doing more things offensively (ie, getting his players the ball), but he can occasionally force things. Hone him in a bit and he'll be a solid NBA player player in the long run.
- James McAdoo could be overrated. Granted, he's a pretty good player, but he doesn't have much lift off the floor nor nothing to counter his lack of lift when I briefly saw him. Tony Parker (another highly-rated player from the 2012 class) of the Georgia Stars had his way with him during particular possession. Drop step and McAdoo-on-you. LOL McAdoo also had trouble a couple of times when more bouncy kids were attempting to block his shot. A good player, but maybe a bit overrated. We'll see.
- Keep an eye on Archie Goodwin.... He's a 2012 player out of Arkansas and he's the goods! I watched him play on yesterday afternoon, as he plays for with the 16u Arkansas Wings. I didn't know he was rated so highly, but I can see why after witnessing him on yesterday. A very, solid player.
- Michael Carter-Williams is a skinny kid, but he has pretty solid game. Granted, he had a couple of so-so games.... He also had a couple of bonanza-like games, as well. He really attacks the basket, but he's also capable of drilling treys and mid-range jumpers. Boeheim is getting a good one.
- The Johnnies could very, well use all of the remaining 'ships, if we end up getting on a roll and get some very, solid players. Yes, there is a chance we could end up no 'ships for 2012. Once again, it all depends on what kinda players we end up getting in the 2011 class. Remember, you'll always end up with a transfer or two or someone leaving early for the NBA. So, the 2012 class, as far as scholarship offers, might be a question mark down the road.
-Beal has been great to deal with. Very nice kid. David Lee's dad is his assistant coach. His older brothers played football.
For those that haven't seen him play, the Championship game, which they reached will be televised at 7 on ESPNU. They face Team Takeover (Mike Gbinije, Mikael Hopkins, James Robinson).
-Rivers is just the most dominant offensive player, regardless of class (Shabazz Muhammad is #2). His team has no inside player and one top 100 caliber player in Trevor Lacey, who disappears constantly and is a defensive liability, due to his average lateral quickness.
-McAdoo is a passive talent, but he has benefited from pedigree and that prolonged injury. Tony Parker should be able to kick his a##. Parker like UConn early and thankfully hates both Georgia schools.
-MCW has probably elevated his game into a McDAA..
-I'd be shocked if Lavin used all of his bullets on this class. Also, 2012 is very top heavy (wings and bigs), but light on quality pgs.
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Finals are being shown right now on ESPNU
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Finals are being shown right now on ESPNU
Baldi is tuning in, they said Team Takeover blewout the Oakland Soldiers by 30?
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Whoever the announcer is,compared Brad Beal to Ray Allen
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Finals are being shown right now on ESPNU
Baldi is tuning in, they said Team Takeover blewout the Oakland Soldiers by 30?
East Coast D, a rare 1-3-1 zone and Teamwork>WC Offense and Talent
Box Score
http://inside.nikebasketball.com/news/wp-content/themes/inside_bb/images/elite-youth/pdfs/box/53.htm (http://inside.nikebasketball.com/news/wp-content/themes/inside_bb/images/elite-youth/pdfs/box/53.htm)
Although he's a little soft for a big, I wouldn't mind St. John's getting involved with 6'9" Mikael Hopkins. Heard WV is making a push
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Finals are being shown right now on ESPNU
Baldi is tuning in, they said Team Takeover blewout the Oakland Soldiers by 30?
East Coast D, a rare 1-3-1 zone and Teamwork>WC Offense and Talent
Box Score
http://inside.nikebasketball.com/news/wp-content/themes/inside_bb/images/elite-youth/pdfs/box/53.htm (http://inside.nikebasketball.com/news/wp-content/themes/inside_bb/images/elite-youth/pdfs/box/53.htm)
Although he's a little soft for a big, I wouldn't mind St. John's getting involved with 6'9" Mikael Hopkins. Heard WV is making a push
I havent seen too many AAU games throughout the years, im not a big fan of it. I'd rather see 2 high school teams go at it. Do the kids take AAU scene more serious than their High seasons?
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Some kids are competitive and will go hard all the time, while others turn it up a notch in July when they know the coaches and scouts are watching. Rankings, reputation, and offers drive many of them.
A normal hs kid in America with D-I talent doesn't have much of a challenge in a game-by-game basis. In the NY metro area, they could be facing as many as 3-5 D-I kids in a competitive game. In these AAU games, the opposition could have as many as 8 (on the strongest, more).
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Finals are being shown right now on ESPNU
Baldi is tuning in, they said Team Takeover blewout the Oakland Soldiers by 30?
That'll be correct, Baldi. I witnessed that game on Wednesday morning. Takeover jumped out to a 14-1 lead and that was all she wrote.
A fight almost ensued during the last minute of the game during a loose ball scramble between the Soldiers' guard, Kiwi Gardner and Takeover's guard, AJ English. Many of the Soliders' players ran off the bench towards the shoving match and peace was quickly restored.
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Question - was Norvel Pelle hurt? Seems like he barely played for the Oakland Soldiers.
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Question - was Norvel Pelle hurt? Seems like he barely played for the Oakland Soldiers.
From the best of my recollection.... I do not believe anyone on the Soliders bench were hurt.