NIKE Peach Jam

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. 

Thanks MJ.

Keep the updates coming!

Great update thanks for sharing

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.

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

mj, nice work, man.  It's nice to have people be able to report on recruits at the big events... keep it up, fellas.

MJ...Have you seen Myles Davis yet?

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.

Once again great update MJ! Keep them coming

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.

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?

Quote from: mjdinkins on July 13, 2010, 05:05:37 PM

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.   

Quote from: jumpinjohnny on July 13, 2010, 11:26:27 PM

Quote from: mjdinkins on July 13, 2010, 05:05:37 PM

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.   

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.

Just got a note that the only team being monitored 24/7 by NCAA Compliance at the PJ is the Oakland Soldiers.

Just got a note that the only team being monitored 24/7 by NCAA Compliance at the PJ is the Oakland Soldiers.

Ouch

Quote from: Not The Sleaveless Guy on July 14, 2010, 11:16:22 AM

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.

Quote from: Moose on July 14, 2010, 11:49:36 AM

Quote from: Not The Sleaveless Guy on July 14, 2010, 11:16:22 AM

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.

Quote from: Not The Sleaveless Guy on July 14, 2010, 02:12:27 PM

Quote from: Moose on July 14, 2010, 11:49:36 AM

Quote from: Not The Sleaveless Guy on July 14, 2010, 11:16:22 AM

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.

Quote from: Moose on July 14, 2010, 02:33:43 PM

Quote from: Not The Sleaveless Guy on July 14, 2010, 02:12:27 PM

Quote from: Moose on July 14, 2010, 11:49:36 AM

Quote from: Not The Sleaveless Guy on July 14, 2010, 11:16:22 AM

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.

Lavin appears
http://twitter.com/jeffborzello/status/18541716924


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