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AC Showcase Highlights: 7th Grader Adissa Catches Follow Up Slam!

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Henri Adissa

New World Basketball Turns Into Lob City As 7th Grader Henri Adissa Catches Alley Oop From Knasir McDaniel This Past Weekend In AC. Adissa helped his 7th Grade New World AAU team to the White Division Championship @ The 2017 AC Showcase Hosted By Bballspotlight.com


Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 8th Grade Top Performers Top Performers Part 2

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Rayvon Weir

The Basketball Spotlight Atlantic City Showcase 8th Grade Division was loaded with talent. Here’s our second look at the Top Performers from that division. 

AC Showcase 8th Grade Top Performers Top Performers Part 2 

Rayvon Weir Guard (Milbank) – This kid deserves much respect as he is a winner. Milbank continues to surprise people making it to the Final 4 in all the Spotlight events but now we can see why. Weir is a tough nosed strong compact combo guard that is wired to score. He can turn the corner off the pick or just simply break down his man one on one. He is always putting pressure on the other team because he is in attack mode trying to get to that cup. His athleticism allows him to finish high at the rim in transition or hang in the air and challenge defenders when getting to the rack in the half court. Jelly Fam is alive and well at Milbank and Rayvon got next.

Chris Harvin Forward (Milbank) – Harvin is a strong forward that can handle the ball. Right now he excels when he is straight line driving to the basket and he finishes very well through contact with either hand. Chris also showed he has the ability to play really good defense blocking shots and just using his good size and strong frame making it difficult for opposing offensive players. He also knocks his free throws down when he gets to the line.
Terrence Clarke Forward (Expressions) – Clarke has a bright future. His athleticism, skill set and IQ are off the charts and standing 6’6 makes him a tough cover seeing he is a wing guard or wing forward. His has a smooth stroke from mid-range out to the 3 point line and he dunks everything in transition. Terrance also has the ability to be a lock down defender.
Kurt Henderson Guard (Expressions) – Kurt reminds us a lot of Kemba Walker. He is a scoring point guard with that burst which allows him to blow by you and get to the rim. He has great elevation on his jump shot and has range out to the three point line. Henderson can also turn into a facilitator if his teammates are hot from the field. With his strength and speed he also can give the opposing point guard a rough time when he is on the defensive end.
Alexis Reyes Forward (Expressions) – Reyes is one of those athletic stretch fours that can handle the ball well enough in space and attack the basketball. He also has above averaging passing skills, blocks shots, and rebounds at a high level. Alexis has nice mechanics on his jumper and he has range out to the 3 point line.
Jalen Bradberry Guard (NY Lightning) – Jalen is a certified sniper from behind the 3 point line. If you give him an inch he is going to knock it down in your eye. In the game we watched he made six triples but don’t let him rock you to sleep because he can put the ball on the deck and get in the paint where he will drop off a nice pass to the big or shoot up a soft floater. We are excited to track Bradberry’s progression as he has the skill set and shooting ability to be a really good prospect down the road if he continues to work hard.
Aaron Carter Guard (Gauchos) – Carter is a strong bodied tough NY point guard that can really score the ball. His go to is his 3 point shot but he can score in a variety of other ways. He has a nice handle that he uses to navigate through the defense which allows him to get to his scoring spots on the floor. He also can run the team and facilitate getting the ball to his teammates. He finished with 20 points including 4 three pointers in the game we watched.
Avery Brown Guard (Gauchos) – Brown is an athletic nice size wing guard that excels attacking the basket in the half court or in transition. His ball handling is good enough to be a secondary ball handler and create his own shot when he is looking to score. Defensively Avery can be a lock down defender that can guard the two backcourt positions. He is good at anticipating the passing lanes and he also knocks down his free throws. He finished with 13 points in the game we watched.

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 8th Grade Top Performers Top Performers Part 3

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Adrian Griffin (PSA Cardinals)

The Basketball Spotlight Atlantic City Showcase 8th Grade Division was loaded with talent. Here’s our final look at the Top Performers from that division. 

AC Showcase 8th Grade Top Performers Top Performers Part 3 


Adrian Griffin Forward (PSA Cardinals) – Griffin is a long wing forward that can do a variety of things on the court. What caught our eye is his nice size and length and after watching him we feel his potential is through the roof. Griffin plays hard and runs the floor in transition finishing at a high level. He rebounds the ball very well and is a really good defender. We like that he can stretch the floor and can knock down the 3 ball versus just being able to drive to the basket. Adrian finished with 15 points including three 3 pointers in the game we watched.


Drissa Traore Forward (PSA Cardinals) – Drissa consistently does what a coach wants every time we see him play. He plays hard with a high motor and he defends and rebounds. He is a problem for opposing teams because he protects the rim blocking and altering many shots either while guarding his man or from the help side. Offensively he is still developing but right now he is one of the better finishers around the basket with either hand.
Daniel Nixon Forward (PSA Cardinals) – Nixon is a wing that plays with a great demeanor. The game looks like it is going slow to him. He has more an old school game where he keeps it simple and takes what the defense gives him. Right now with his 6’5 height and strong body he can get to the basket and finish through contact. Daniel also has a nice stroke from the three point line with a nice touch.
Mohammed Aminu Forward (Dynamic Disciples) – Aminu is a problem for any team that lines up against him. His size and athleticism at this level is hard to stop or even contain. He plays so hard and it always going downhill attacking the defense and no one wants to get in his way. We saw him go to multiple spin moves off the dribble attacking the basket and finishing with a nice touch. Mohammed also takes the pressure off his guards as he is able to be a secondary ball handler. He tallied 24 and 18 points in the games we watched.
Anthony Jackson Guard (Dynamic Disciples) – Jackson takes on the role as the secondary scorer for his team. While Aminu gets most of his points at the rim, Anthony is the shooter on the team. He has a nice three point shot but what we noticed the most is his nice mid-range pull up game either off the bounce or catch.
Daniel Beephat Forward (New Heights) – Daniel is a long active big man that plays with a high motor. When he was inserted in the game we watched him changed the whole complexion of the game by playing so hard the entire energy of New Heights changed. Defensively he blocks shots and rebounds at a high level. We also saw him on the floor getting loose balls and deflecting balls in passing lanes. He is a good finisher around the basket.
Quazawn Davis Guard (New Heights) – Davis is a long armed wing guard that looks like a good prospect to keep an eye on. He can knock down the 3 ball or attack the basket hard either finishing or drawing contact to go to the line where he knocked down his free throws. On defense he played at the top of the two three zone causing problems for the opposing team’s smaller guards. We also saw him challenge and block the other teams big man’s shot.
Jaquan Carlos Guard (New Heights) – Carlos is the floor general of his team and he does a good job of dictating the pace and flow of the game. He is a strong built guard that locks up on defense. He can also become a scorer when needed but equally he does a good team facilitating and running his team. He finished with 11 points in the game we watched.
Yamire McCord Forward (MBK Knights) – McCord is a strong lefty that can handle the ball. He attacks the rim hard and plays with passion. Yamire has a soft touch and can score it from inside or outside. One of his biggest weapons was when he rebounds the ball and pushes it right down the defenses throat right to the cup. He finished with 20 points in the game we watched.

AC Showcase Highlights: Browne Heats Up From Downtown!

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Everton Browne

The NY Dragons took home the top crown and Everton Browne helped them along the way. He heated up during the quarterfinals against the NY Gauchos. He was 6 for 8 from behind the arc and finished with 18 points in the victory. Check out his highlights below.

AC Showcase Highlights: Clarke and Reyes Show Out!

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Terrence Clarke And Alexis Reyes

Terrence Clarke and Alexis Reyes form one of the top duo’s in the region. When they are on, Expressions Elite plays at their best. They reached the final four of the AC Showcase. Check out their highlights and stay tuned as we bring you more action from the Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase

 

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1

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Rodney Rice

The Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 7th Grade Division has some serious talent and some fresh faces. Here’s our first look at the Top Performers from this division. 

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 7th Grade Top Performers Part 1 

Rodney Rice Guard (New World)- Rice was cooking in Atlantic City. He had the scoring going from all three levels. He’s so mature with the pill and can pull it from the parking lot. He pumped a game high 25 versus Expressions and another 24 versus Riverside Hawks. He would have received the MVP Award if we were giving one out.

Henry Adissa Forward (New World)- Adissa continues to develop especially on the offensive end. He catching the rock better and is showing good footwork on the post. Defensively, he still was able to block and alter shots while eating rebounds all weekend. He’s a player to watch from the DMV area.
Amir Dade Guard (New World)- Dade had his best outing in the finals. The lefty is very good at finishing through contact. He’s very strong as a ball handler and usually takes care of the rock. He also came up big when the lights were bright. He’s also a constant pest on defense. 

Knasir McDaniels Guard (New World)- McDaniel’s looked the most comfortable during the finals as he was able to score and set teammates. He’s been a proven winner over the years and now seems like he has a home with New World. He finished the game with 14 markers.
Roddy Gayle Forward (We R 1)- Gayle was probably the best scorer in the event regardless of class. The lanky wing finishes with ease and very often especially in transition. His size and ball handling ability makes him difficult to contain. He averaged over 20 points a contest. Kid has a chance to be something special down the road.
Chance Westry Guard (We R 1)- Westry was another pleasant surprise. I haven’t seen him in years but he made sure I took notice this weekend. He kept defenders at bay with mean hesitation dribble and moves that create space. He carved defenders off the bounce while also knocking down the deep ball. He also averaged more than 20 points a contest over the weekend as they knocked off a few top teams in the region. He is on the verge of having a breakout.
Phil Cook Forward (We R 1)- Cook is a tough inside player and a plays hard on both ends of the floor. He was able to be effective by using his strength and scoring touch inside. He brings toughness to this squad which will be needed down the road.

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 7th Grade Top Performers Part 2

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Antonio Sellers

The Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 7th Grade Division has some serious talent and some fresh faces. Here’s our first look at the Top Performers from this division. 

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 7th Grade Top Performers Part 2 

Antonio Sellers Forward (NY Gauchos)- The forward continues to show why he’s one of the best players in the country. At times he plays the point forward position and can either score or make the correct pass. He’s seems to have improved in quickness and explosiveness when attacking the basket and if his jump shot is falling his game goes to another level. We made Isaiah Briscoe comparisons a couple of years ago but now his size and style of play reminds me of a young Kyle Anderson.

Franscisco Mattei Forward (NY Gauchos)- No many goes as hard as Mattei on this level. He attacks the basket relentlessly off the dribble while drawing contact. He lived at the charity stripe this weekend. He demonstrates great body control and strength to finish through contact. 

Issac Gonzales Guard (NY Gauchos)- Gonzalez was a great help for the Gauchos as he had a solid weekend. He gave the Choz a threat from the perimeter which helped stretch the defense. He played well off the Gauchos attacking guard style.
Dariq Whitehead Forward (NY Lightning)- No matter what uniform Whitehead shows up in he does damage. The natural wing once again showed he is one of the elite players in the country. He had best outing against one of his former squads with 26 points versus Team Magic. This kid commands attention on the floor and he should jump into the national spotlight this summer. 

Jaquan Sanders Guard (NY Lightning)- The Lightning made it to the final four and this kid’s shooting was a major reason. Sanders has a mean ratchet and will let it go from anywhere. He really showed his range in the semifinals by nailing 6 treys in their loss to WE R 1. He can really stroke it. 

Darrell Victory Guard (NY Lightning)- The quick guard runs the point but can also get into the scoring column. He has breakdown ability and gets into the lane with ease. If his jumper or floater is dropping he’s much more effective on the floor.

Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic Getting Early Interest!

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The Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic is garnering early attention. Please make sure you register early because a sellout is imminent. 

8th Grade Teams 
1. Jersey Force 
2. Hilltoppers Heat 
3. MSU Skyliners 
4. RYZE Basketball 
5. Keystone Blazers 
6. Team Delaware 
7. Playtime Basketball 
8. Wall 2 Wall 
9. Boston Spartans 
10. We R 1 (Blue) 
11. CM3 Elite
12. Legendary Ballers
13. 
14. 
15. 
16. 

7th Grade Teams 
1. Playtime Panthers 
2. Hilltoppers Heat 
3. MSU Skyliners 
4. Team Delaware 
5. WE R 1 (White) 
6. Team Philly 
7. Wall 2 Wall (1) 
8. Wall 2 Wall (2) 
9. Boston Spartans 
10. Team Future 
11. Team IZOD 
12. 
13. 
14. 
15. 
16. 

6th Grade Teams 
1. SJ Domination 
2. Wright Academy 
3. Jersey Force 
4. T Town Ballers 
5. Ryze Basketball 
6. Team Delaware 
7. We R 1 Lehigh Valley 
8. B & B Running Rebels 
9. WE R 1 (Delaware) 
10. Unlimited Ballers 
11. Boston Spartans 
12. Fidonce Bulldogs 
13. Team IZOD 
14. Team 10 Basketball 
15. 
16. 

5th Grade 
1. Jersey Force 
2. T Town Ballers 
3. Team Delaware 
4. MSU Skyliners 
5. Wall 2 Wall 
6. CMD 
7. Boston Spartans 
8. 6th Man Warriors (DE) 
9. Team IZOD 
10. 
11. 
12. 

4th Grade 
1. Jersey Force 
2. Team Delaware 
3. MSU Skyliners 
4. Tim Dog Ballers 
5.
6.
7.
8. 

3rd Grade  
1. NY Gauchos (Harris) 
2. Jersey Force 
3. 6th Man Warriors (DE) 
4. MPO Elite 
5.
6.
7.
8.

Diary Of A Baller: Terrence Clarke (Boston, MA) Entry #6

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Terrence Clarke

Hey Basketball World,


Sorry for being pretty late but I’m signing in to welcome you all to my sixth diary entry for Bballspotlight. This week went by pretty fast, and I’m most certainly exhausted after my second Track Meet. All I could think about was the first EYBL session in Virginia. It was more of time where I could learn my strengths and weaknesses while playing up grades. Also, learn from other top players from other EYBL teams on the 17u circuit.


Waking up on Monday morning felt like a refresher. I needed to let everything go that had happened last week, this was a new week, and I was in for an even better week. We started the school day a little later after watching some of my school's musical performances. Due to study hall being last, I thought I’d have lots of homework but I finished my math, and my history homework wasn’t due until Wednesday, so I had limited homework to finish. In my study hall period, I chose to relax. I watched and listened to music and videos. After school, I had to see my trainer because of my calf bothering me a lot. It turns out I strained it, but it wasn’t too bad. I iced it for the most of the Track practice and went to our outdoor basketball court to put up some shots. I used that time to put up lots of moving shots due to me missing my last second shot the day before. As frustrated as I was, I used it to get up shots and work even harder than before. After, I went to dinner and study hall. I finished my English, and Language Skills homework then had the time to watch videos and simmer down. As the day ended, I played 2k and chilled in my teammate's room for the night until lights out.


Tuesday was a real day for me. I had most of my classes starting with Science to Math out of my schedule for the day. But I had electives, so that was a mini break to my time. I had to get some of my work done while in class or at any time I had. Since I was finishing my work and didn’t have lots to do, I was going into my nightly study hall with only about two pieces of homework. After school, I had track practice to get ready for my Track Meet the next day. Also thinking about EYBL, this will get me fatigued but keep me in shape for the EYBL sessions. I finally practiced long jump for the first time and did very well at it while going at a good pace. After track practice, I got time in the gym. I worked as hard as my pairs as we did all in game moves without cones or any extra pieces. It came with lots of hard work, but I stayed on top and left my frustration to a minimum. After practice, I went back to the dorm to take a quick shower then to dinner and study hall. At study hall, I finished the rest of the pieces of work I had and relaxed. Once I got back to the dorm, I had a long talk with my EYBL coaches and gave me pointers and responsibility for the weekend. I took this into consideration because I haven’t been a real winner in my past AAU seasons. Most tournaments out of MA, I tended to lose in some ways. After the long talk, I laid in my bed and fell asleep.


5:30. My Wednesday morning started brightly before the sun came up. I went to the gym early even though I was tired as ever. I got to the weight room to run on the bike for about 5 minutes. After, I went upstairs to begin a morning workout. I stayed on concepts that I’d use in the game. Lots of shots were falling for me, and I tried to keep my handle on a rope. I then went up for a layup and bothered my calf muscle. I sat for a while but got up to put up a couple more shots until I had to leave back to the dorm for breakfast. As I got dressed for school and went through my morning routine of breakfast then assembly, I started to feel the fatigue kick in. I was drowsy and terribly exhausted. I had to push through for the day was all I could think about. Since my study hall period was second, I took that time to put my head down, listen to music and cool down. I went to the rest of my classes to finish out the day. Even with my fatigue, I still had to participate in my track meet. After school, I got on the bus to my track meet in Marlborough. I had to run the relay and 100 meters. I started with the 100 meters feeling most certainly confident. With too much confidence, I disqualified twice even with coming first by a vast margin for starting on “Go” instead of the gun. With that sad moment, I looked forward to leaving the most. My track teammate, Aidan, was tired after winning the 1,600 meters and 800 meters and asked me to finish out the relay for him and I accepted the offer. This was a way to redeem me to my team. I started first out of my four teammates participating. I ran faster than light at least 2 seconds after the gun sound came out and I still got to my teammate before anyone. Unfortunately, with my high acceleration, we still afforded to come in second in the final. After the meet, I went back to school to have dinner and headed to study hall about 15 minutes late. I finished the only piece of homework I had and went back to the dorm. My school coach informed me that we could go back to the gym for the night and I headed there for the evening until lights out.


Thursday was the most abstract day. I started the school day off by getting to my classes and staying entertained until I was picked up to go home. As the day went on, I left right before sports to get home and relax until we needed to travel to Virginia. I stayed at my friend's house with my boys until about 10 o'clock, the time we left to meet at the bus from Braintree Mall. We were there for about an hour waiting for the bus at our starting point. The bus came right before 12 midnight, and we boarded to head to VA.


The most different, crazy and unexpected day of my life most likely was Friday. The day started with me falling asleep until about 7:30-8 o'clock in the morning. Our bus broke down, and we were stuck on the highway for a while. We had a little photo shoot in between the time. Once the bus started moving again, we stopped at a pit stop for McDonald's in Maryland. This turned into about three to four hours of waiting for the bus to get power. After this time, we were back on the road to Virginia. I got to Virginia at about three hours before my first game at Boo Williams. We got to the hotel to drop our extra bags to our rooms and left to check in. We got to the Boo Williams gym and was immediately flabbergasted by the 17u EYBL media, players and fans. Just thinking about it gave me chills. As we got dressed for our first game, you can see the nerves getting to me as I looked around and looked like I didn't belong, but I stuck in the thought process of me being the next one. Our game started at 9:30. As the game started very slow for my teammates and me, I began to pick it up at the end of the first half and the start of the second half. Unfortunately, I got into an altercation and couldn't play for the rest of the game, but I still cheered my teammates on. As the game was very close, the action went back and forth. The game went into overtime, and we lost by a few points. I took the blame for the game because my attitude wasn't so great. After, we went back to the hotel to get rest for our next game the next day.


Saturday started pretty well. We knew we were playing a decent team which meant we needed to lock in. After breakfast, we had to head to our game at 11 against All-Ohio Red. The game started the same way as yesterday's game, trailed by some and had to battle back. As the game went on, our opponents went on a huge run to put them up lots. As we battled in the second half, the crunch time moments mattered the most. As a team, we didn't battle it out together and gave up a game we could have won by far. Next game was against The New York Rens. This contest was a battle in the first half. It was a close game until they went on a huge run and before you know it, it was a far game. Our next game put us in the copper division to compete for the championship, and our first game started at 9:30 PM. We played a decent team but wasn't very good. After losing too much in my mind, I started the game at a fast pace. As the game went on, I began to play hard and smarter. This lead to my points and different playmaking points. The game went to overtime, and I took the game over to end it. I had layups and clutch free throws to put the game out of reach. Our next matchup was in the morning at 9:30.


Sunday was the time to get the money. We started the day very late and didn’t get up in time for our game against the AOT Running Rebels and to pack our clothes, so we were on the clock. Once we got to the gym, the game was starting in six minutes, and no had stretched or taken a layup. But when the game started, it looked like I was used to it. I came out the first half jumping with assists and points quickly. The first half, we were still down by a couple of points. The second half started with a bang. I hit two threes, and my teammates had mid-range jump shots and layups. This put us up by double-digit points. As the game was ending, the game became a back and forth action, but we controlled the game by hitting free throws and ended the game. This game was my best game because I had exactly 40 points to end the game. Our next game was at 1:30 against Team Durant. We watched some EYBL games then got stretched for our own. Once the game started, the game became a long contest early. As we fought back, we were only down a small margin. As we got stops and scores, Team Durant did the same and went on a run. As the clutch came to the test, we folded and turned the ball over three times while only down less than six points. We lost the game, and everyone hung their heads down. We were back on the road to Boston with no win once again. Put it wasn’t as bad as we thought. This was our first real tournament together, so we didn’t expect to win as much. We are going to get in the gym and collaborate to become a superb team. As the weekends and I probably will be missing a day of school since I won’t be getting home until five in the morning, I’ll be back on my school routine and get ready for my next tournament in Pittsburgh for 15u. Tune back in next week as I’ll update you all on how my week goes into my next tournament. Until then, stay into the books and be easy!


Instagram: TerrenceClarke_

Twitter: TerrenceClarke_


Snapchat: TeamDemi06

AC Showcase Highlights: Sellers Stroking The Long Ball!

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Antonio Sellers 

We talked about Antonio Sellers shooting the rock at the AC Showcase. He heated up especially against New World in the semi-finals. Check out the highlights below. Stay tuned as we bring you more action from the AC Showcase.

AC Showcase Highlights: "Dug" Digs In!

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Knasir "Dug" McDaniels

Knasir "Dug" McDaniels has a been a known guard on this level for years. During the AC Showcase he was able to boogie with the rock and get things done. Check out his highlights and stay tuned as we bring you more action from the AC Showcase.

In The Spotlight: Rasheen Caulk (We R 1)

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Name: Rasheen Caulk Jr 

AAU Team: WE R 1 (Blue) 

Class: 2021 

Position: Shooting Guard 

Breakdown: We R 1 (Blue) won the title and Caulk carried the way in the finals. The smooth shooting wing scored the rock and showed he could make a living at the charity stripe. He finished with 22 markers and 10 came from the free throw line. You can see his game developing right in front of our eyes. His confidence continues to grow in each outing.

In The Spotlight: Chandler Wilson (Expressions Elite)

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Name: Chandler Wilson 

AAU Team: Expressions Elite 

Class: 2022 

Position: Shooting Guard 

Breakdown: Wilson is a big shooting guard that can also handle the point guard duties. His outside shot is one of his biggest weapons as he was able to drain treys from all around the floor. I also like his separation off the bounce and finishing ability. He caught our eye and commanded our attention in Atlantic City.

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 1

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Jomani Wright

The Basketball Spotlight 6th Grade Division brought out the best talent in the region. Here’s our first look at the Top Performers from this age group. 

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 1 

Jomani Wright Guard (Riverside Hawks) – Wright might have been the best pound for pound player in the entire event. He plays hard on both ends of the floor. On the offensive end floor you can compare this pint size lefty guard to Isaiah Thomas. Jo Jo can get buckets in a variety of ways either attacking the basket and hitting his floater or stroking a 3ball from distance. He exploded for 25 points in the championship against New Heights.


Christian Bliss Guard (Riverside Hawks) – Bliss is a winner and this is a very great quality for a point guard. He is one of those floor generals that was born and understands what he needs to do from game to game for his team to win the game. He doesn’t care if he shoots one shot or scores one point just so he wins the game. Christian isn’t the quickest or most athletic player on the floor but he knows how to maximize his ability playing the angles and using his body to ward off defenders. He is a pesky defender that gets steals and offensively he can space the floor knocking down the 3 point shot or make the elite level pass. He finished with 11 points in the championship.
Caleb Crawford Guard (Riverside Hawks) – Crawford is wired to score. He can knock down the trey ball or attack the basket. He also has a mid-range game and he excels finishing in transition. Every game we watch when he plays he always seems to be out finishing in transition one on none. It seems that the Riverside Hawks recipe for success is that their top guys all have a great feel for the game and high IQ but further more they all play hard and with a purpose like they love the game. That usually equates to wins and Caleb exudes all of that.
Nico Andrews Forward (Riverside Hawks) – Riverside is an undersized team but they make up for it with overall toughness and Andrews is probably the toughest. He is an athletic forward that will probably move more to the perimeter when he gets older but right now he plays so hard he grabs all the rebounds in or outside his area. He also plays tough defense blocking shots on bigger opposing players. He can finish around the basket and he knocks down his free throws.
D.J. Wagner Guard (New Heights) – Wagner is an explosive scoring guard. He comes from a great family lineage and it seems you can project the future with this kid which will be a high level blue chip prospect. He attacks the basket relentlessly and just seems to plays at a different speed than his peers. Defensively he can guard multiple perimeter positions and Wagner gives the opposition fits. In the two games we saw he finished with 14 and 12 points.
Jaiden Williams Forward (New Heights) – Williams is a long wing that is a match up problem at this level. He plays hard with a high motor which makes him a good two way player. He is good in transition or attacking the basket in the half court and can knock down the open jumper. He scored 20 points in the game we saw.
Jayden Reid Guard (New Heights) – Reid was the main man on his Gauchos squad but now he is a part of arguably the best perimeter trio in the country with Wagner and Williams. He fit in well with this team and showed he can facilitate to keep his teammates happy and pick his spots when needed to score the ball. We believe with more practice and as they gel the New Heights perimeter group can be special. He scored 16 points in the game we scouted.
Naazir Robinson Guard (New Heights) – When we saw Robinson last time he was strictly a scorer. This time we saw him transition to more of a primary ball handler handling some point guard duties and he looked comfortable doing it. Naazir has a nice 3 point stroke and he also has a good mid-range jumper. He is definitely an important piece to this New Heights team if they want to be successful and win games.

Spotlight Alum Washington Selects Robert Morris!

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Leondre Washington

Basketball Spotlight Alum Leondre Washington has decided to take his talent to Robert Morris University. Washington begun his Spotlight career with the Riverside Hawks before having stops with legendary Team Battle. Team Scan and finally NJ Playaz. 

He went on to high school to play with Teaneck and Roselle Catholic while helping the Teaneck Hilltoppers win the NJ Group 3 State Championship. Basketball Spotlight would like to congratulate Leondre and his family on their commitment to Robert Morris and wish him luck in the future.


In The Spotlight: Ben Hurd (Expressions Elite)

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Name: Ben Hurd 

AAU Team: Expressions Elite 

Class: 2021 

Position: Point Guard 

Breakdown: Hurd ran the point for the Expressions Elite and did a solid job in the controls. He directed traffic while dropping dimes but also was able to get into the scoring column himself while averaging double figures. He was solid all around the board.

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 2

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Christian Kirkland 

The Basketball Spotlight 6th Grade Division brought out the best talent in the region. Here’s our first look at the Top Performers from this age group. 

Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase 6th Grade Top Performers Part 2 

Christian Kirkland Forward (B&B Running Rebels) – Christian probably was the best prospect in the 6th grade division. He has elite size and it looks like he has room to grow. He is a long lefty big man that has a nice touch from the elbow and short corner. He usually works from the high post and he is a good passer out of the post. Kirkland blocks everything on the defensive end without fouling.


Jacob Beccles Guard (B&B Running Rebels) – Beccles is a long guard that plays on the wing and is at his best when he is attacking the basket. He has a decent handle that allows him to be the secondary ball handler on the team and when he grabs a rebound he can just push the ball and lead the break. Defensively he can guard all three perimeter positions and his versatility is an asset for the Rebels on both ends of the floor.
Nathan Rosario Forward (B&B Running Rebels) – Rosario is one of those players that every coach wants on their team. He has a high motor and plays very hard crashing the boards and diving on the floor for loose balls. He rebounds at a high level inside or outside of his area and he can finish around the basket.
Isaiah Wright Forward (SE Starz) – Wright is a big man with a strong body. If he catches the ball in the low post it is pretty much an automatic bucket. If he catches it a little bit away from the block he can attack with a hard power dribble and finish through contact. Isaiah has a mean streak and you don’t want to get in his way when he is aggressively attacking the basket. He knows how to clear out space in the lane in order to receive the post entry pass. He finished with 11 points in the game we watched.
Justin Bonsu Guard (East Coast Elite) – Bonsu is a combo guard with nice size. He is the primary scorer on his team and he can knock down the 3 ball. He also can move over to the point and be the primary facilitator on the floor. Defensively he can guard either back court position. Justin finished with 22 points including 3 trey balls in the game we watched.
Akil Watson Forward (East Coast Elite) – Akil is a long wing that is a nice looking prospect. He has an overall nice stroke on his jumper and he knocks his free throws down. He is a match up problem on both ends of the floor. Watson finished with 13 points in the game we watched.
Korbyn Samuels Forward (East Coast Elite) – Samuels is a prospect that hasn’t even scratched the surface of his potential. Right now he is all arms and legs and is more effective on defense than offense. He moves really well so he can guard perimeter players. Offensively he is a wing forward that in the future he looks like he will be a match up problem as he continues to develop.

In The Spotlight: Nykolas Lewis (New World)

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Name: Nykolas Lewis 

 AAU Team: New World 

Class: 2025 

Position: Combo Guard 

Breakdown: Lewis was awesome at the Atlantic City Showcase. The kid displayed the total offensive package. He scored it was ease from all three levels and was able to get rid of defenders off the bounce. He has a mean crossover dribble and can finish with either hand. He has the flair for the dramatic as he hit the game winner to help New World take home the title.

In The Spotlight: Mike "Deuce" Jones (FCP Hoops)

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Name: Mike “Deuce” Jones 

AAU Team: FCP Hoops Elite 

Position: Point Guard 

Class: 2025 

 Breakdown: “Deuce” made his Spotlight debut at the AC Showcase and didn’t back down from the Bright lights. He began the weekend with a 12 point outing versus national power Riverside Hawks and then erupted for 26 markers in a win versus Bingo All Stars. The youngster showed he could score in transition, from deep and make his way to the charity stripe. We have our eye out for this kid. He’s on the Spotlight radar.

Diary Of A Baller: Terrence "Total Package" Clarke (Boston, MA) Entry #7

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Terrence Clarke 

How’s the Basketball World doing?

Welcome back to another week of my Basketball Spotlight diary entry.

Monday I got back home at about 4 in the morning due to the long bus ride back home from Virginia. My body was very sore, and I was more tired than ever. As I went to sleep and woke back up, I got to chill in Boston and rest my body for the day. With no workouts or any school work need to be due, I was good for the day.

Tuesday, I got back to school at about noon to finish the school day. Since my track meet was canceled, I got to relax more and stay in to play PS4 with my boy Aidan. After, I finished the day with dinner and study hall. Once I got back to the dorm, I got to my room to fall asleep and get ready for the next day. 

As the day started on Wednesday, my body was sore as ever, and I was more fatigued for the morning workout. I got up at the regular time for the day but a lot later. I left my dorm about 10 minutes late but rushed to breakfast. My body language showed how tired I was and I needed to wake up. As my classes went on and my school day ended, my track practice was canceled due to the rain. I got time to stay in our academic building to finish homework and watch videos. After, I had time to get into the gym. I put up lots of shots and worked on my handle for a while. I felt weird not playing basketball for a while, but I had to fix it up. After, I took my shower and went to dinner and study hall. I had lots of time to finish all the homework I had.

Thursday was the longest day of them all. The day started pretty good as I got up on time and left at a good time for breakfast. After school, our track practice was a terrible punishment for people not listening and paying attention to our track teacher. We ran longer suicides than in a gym for the whole practice in the parking lot. After, I was so tired but still managed to go outside to the court to put shots up. After, I played 21 with my friends, Aidan and Alpha, to work on in game moves. I got back to the dorm to clean up and go to dinner and study hall. I took this time to watch videos on the EYBL, UAA, and Adidas Gauntlet to end my night. 

Friday, I got to leave school early at about noon. When I got back home, I went straight to the gym in Boston that everyone from my old school goes to after school. I play some pickup games to stay active for the day. After I had gone to another gym, Huntington YMCA, to play but no one was there. We chilled there for an hour to relax, shoot shots and enjoy our time with each other. Once the time got right, we left to play pick up at teen night at the Roxbury YMCA. We played against older kids, but I couldn’t compete too much because I lost a game and was fatigued as ever. I stayed out and in the gym for a while and got back home late at night. I ended the night right when I got home to sleep and get ready for my games in the morning. 

Saturday was an easy day. We had games at 11:00 and 1:50 o’clock. Our games had lots of viewers, and we had a show to put on. We won both of our games by about 20+ points for the day. We got back to the hotel and took naps and laid in our beds. After, we went out to eat at about 7:30-8:00 o’clock. We ate lots and left back to the hotel. To end the night, I went fast to sleep for our hard day at work for the next day.

Sunday might have been the craziest day. Our first game was against our rivals from the New England, BABC. We beat them in an emotional game against our old teammate that left the week before. Our next game was against Stamford Peace. The first half was very slow but sped up the second half. As we were down by four going into the half, we went on a huge run to put us up by a lot. But Peace was not out of it. They hit lots of threes and had layups to keep the game going. But we ended up closing the game out by milking the clock and hitting clutch shots that gave us winning the game. Our last game was our challenge game. Expressions vs. Gauchos. EYBL vs. UAA. Nike vs. Under Armour. We’ve played Gauchos many times before and never won before. This time we knew we had to get them for the first time. As the game went on, we were up by a couple by the half. But Gauchos were not done. They went on a big run off of layups and points of off turnovers. We keyed in on the press and took care of it. We started to get easy baskets, and this put the game very close. As Gauchos went on a run to put them up 7, my teammate, Jamari, and I hit two threes to put us down one. We got a stop and my teammate, Trey, got fouled and hit a free throw to tie the game. Gauchos had a critical jump shot in our zone defense to put them up two with six-eight seconds left in the game. We called timeout and knew the game was depending on this one play. We designed a play to get our point guard the ball and to go straight to the rim and dish it off. As the game went into play, the situation changed. We threw the ball to me over the top of my defender. I tried to throw the ball to Trey, but the ball was tipped backward. Jamari ran and picked it up before the Gauchos defender dove and tried to get the ball. Jamari had a clean, wide open shot down by two and hit it for the win! We started to go crazy and ran on to Jamari. We were happy as ever and won the championship. We went to eat and just couldn’t stop thinking about it. This was the craziest moment of our lives together since 5th grade. 

As the weekend ends, I’ll be back at school to get ready for a camp this weekend in DC. Tune in next week as I keep you all updated on how it goes. Until then, everyone stays blessed and humbled.

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