In The Spotlight: Dynamic Duo Helps Riverside Hawks Fly!

April 16, 2015, 7:52 am

≫ Next: In The Spotlight: Moore Delivers In The Clutch!

≪ Previous: AC Showcase 6th Grade Best Of The Best & Super 15 Player Performance Rankings

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Caleb Crawford and Christian Bliss

The Riverside Hawks continued their dominance on the Spotlight circuit by winning the AC Showcase 4th Grade Championship. Part of the Hawks success came from the play of Caleb Crawford and Christian Bliss. In their semifinal showdown against crosstown rival Gauchos the pair exploded while combining for over 40 points. Caleb controlled the perimeter with 16 points and Bliss did the all-around damage finishing with a game high 26 points. They two are just a small part of a talented bunch trying to run the table at the Spotlight circuit.

CLICK HERE IF YOU HAVE GAME!

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In The Spotlight: Moore Delivers In The Clutch!

April 16, 2015, 8:29 am

≫ Next: What Did We Learn At The AC Showcase?

≪ Previous: In The Spotlight: Dynamic Duo Helps Riverside Hawks Fly!

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Name: Jason Moore  

AAU Team: Maryland Finest 

Grade: 5th 

Position: Forward 

Breakdown: In the finals of the AC Showcase the defending National Champions Maryland Finest we seeking their first Spotlight title against the hungry Gauchos. Jason Moore looked at this as his opportunity to step up and get them over the hump. The polished forward responded with a solid 19 point effort to help them secure the win. He has edged his name in one of the big moments in the AC Showcase history.

What Did We Learn At The AC Showcase?

April 16, 2015, 10:42 am

≫ Next: Road To The Grand Finale Point System Update!

≪ Previous: In The Spotlight: Moore Delivers In The Clutch!

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The Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase once again went down as they event of the year. It also had a lot of interesting happening and aspects to go along with the weekend. Here are some of the things we learned in America’s Playground. 

 What Did We Learn At The AC Showcase?

AC Showcase #1 Event In America! 

The AC Showcase went to the next level this year with 3 reigning national champions, over 40 nationally ranked teams, over 100 nationally ranked players and combined all three sneakers companies. The atmosphere was epic and the games were very entertaining. It would be hard for any single weekend event to bring together this type of luster. We owe all this success to you guys and greatly appreciate it.

Patterson True #1 In The Country! 

After watching Trey Patterson this weekend and factoring in his apparent enormous potential it’s safe to say he will be our Class of 2021 #1 player in the country when we update our rankings soon. Patterson was very dominant at times and has improved his motor while under the tutelage of Reggie Carter. He has the ability to play any position on the floor. The scary part is this kid still has a ways to go. We are going to enjoy this journey.

Terror Squad Controversy! 

The craziest things always seem to occur at the AC Showcase. In this year’s episode the Terror Squad was informed that they were eliminated from the tournament because of the point system. This information was a fault of mine and I take full responsibility. A phone call at 10:00 am from their team manager alerted me of the error I then had to hold up their 10:20 quarterfinal game for their arrival. I stepped in because I was at fault and would have done the same for any other squad in the event. The Terror Squad ended up winning the championship and the saga continues.

CP3 All Stars Hit The Road! 

After defeating Team Ennis, Team Rio National and Team Takeover, CP3 All Stars felt their work at the AC Showcase was done and hit the road for Greensboro, NC. They cited travel time and the fact that they played everyone they wanted to play and the championship would have been just a possible rematch against Team RIO. The Team Rio crew wanted another shot at the national champs after coming up short by 3 points in their pool play meeting. Was CP3 bored and ready to hit the road or were they trying to leave America’s Playground without a loss. I guess no one will really know and this would add to the allure and irony of the AC Showcase.

The Spotlight Team! 

The Spotlight team epidemic begun with Team Battle, then was followed by Team Final, Supreme Team, Team RIO National and now apparently the Terror Squad. The Spotlight team is the squad the others feel get unwarranted website attention and preferential treatment during our events. But if you really look at these teams you will notice that they all have one thing in common, they win. Basketball Spotlight just as ESPN or any other media outlet promotes winning teams. Therefore if you feel like these types of teams are getting too much attention knock them off the pedestal and I will gladly be in your corner when your hand is raised. I’m like Don King, (Champion Chasers.)

Road To The Grand Finale Point System Update!

April 17, 2015, 6:48 am

≫ Next: REST IN PEACE: ARMONI "LIVE WIRE" SEXTON!

≪ Previous: What Did We Learn At The AC Showcase?

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The AC Showcase was the 4th stop on the Basketball Spotlight Road To The Grand Finale. We would like to congratulate all the teams the picked up points towards the Grand Prize. The Grand Finale will take place June 20th and 21th. The Top 8 teams in each division will be invited with the discount rate of $250. We also will be having open bids for top teams that want to go for the crown at the cost of $375. Our last stop before the Grand Finale will be the Memorial Day Classic in Neptune, NJ. 

8th Grade Teams 
Harlem Jets (15 Points) 
Team RIO National (12 Points) 
NY Rens (8 Points) DC Premier (8 Points) 
Play Hard (8 Points) 
Philly Triple Threat (7 Points) 
New Heights (7 Points) 
CP3 All Stars (6 Points) 
Team Final (5 Points) 
Team Takeover (5 Points) 
CTA Turbo (5 Points) 
Hilltopper Heat (5 Points) 

7th Grade Teams 
Team Durant (18 Points) 
Team IZOD (9 Points) 
DC Premier (7 Points) 
PSA Cardinals (7 Points) 
King Street Kings (7 Points) 
Hilltoppers Heat (7 Points) 
Brooklyn Rens (7 Points) 
Gauchos (5 Points) 
NY Rens (4 Points) 
Dream Chasers (3 Points) 
RIP City (3 Points) 
Wiz Kids (3 Points) 

6th Grade Teams 
Team IZOD (12 Points) 
Team Durant (10 Points) 
New World Unlimited (8 Points) 
Hilltoppers Heat (8 Points) 
B’More Finest (7 Points) 
Philly Triple Threat (7 Points) 
Team Takeover (7 Points) 
Gauchos (6 Points) 

5th Grade 
Riverside Hawks (11 Points) 
Havoc City (10 Points) 
NY Rens (10 Points) 
Team Durant (6 points) 
60 Elite (6 Points) 
New Heights (6 Points) 
Maryland Finest (5 Points) 
Gauchos (4 Points) 
National Select (3 Points) 

4th Grade Teams 
Riverside Hawks (15 Points) 
Made Signature (8 Points) 
Team Takeover (8 Points) 
NY Rens (8 Points) 
Havoc City (7 Points) 
Gauchos (3 Points) 
B’More Finest (3 Points) 
Hilltoppers Heat (3 Points) 
National Select (3 Points) 
SJ Domination (3 Points)

REST IN PEACE: ARMONI "LIVE WIRE" SEXTON!

April 20, 2015, 6:11 am

≫ Next: Diary Of A Baller: James "Buckets" Bishop (Baltimore, MD) Entry #1

≪ Previous: Road To The Grand Finale Point System Update!

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Today is a sad day for the basketball community as we are mourning the death of Armoni Sexton of Paterson, NJ. Armoni first appeared on the Basketball Spotlight scene as a 7th Grader for the Playtime Panthers. After a couple of good outings he moved over to the national power Playaz Basketball Club. Once he arrived at the Playaz his name and game reached new levels. His coming out party was the Memorial Day Classic in which he dominated and received the Mr. Memorial Day Award (Main Picture Up Top). Sexton also took his game on the road and became a name to know on the camp circuit. His electric play on the court earned him the nickname “Live Wire”. During his 8th grade season his play flourished even more on the Spotlight circuit as he made All Tournament for every event they entered and had a dominating performance in the J.E.M. All Star Classic. 

In a recent article his AAU and high school coach Tommie Patterson expressed his grief. “I’m at loss for words,” said Patterson. “I don’t even know what to think.” The coach said his mother too doesn’t is in disbelief and what to make of her son’s untimely death. He said his mother is coping with the pain by imagining he went to basketball camp and would return to her. 

Basketball Spotlight would like to send our condolences to the Sexton family, Playaz Basketball Club especially Tommie Patterson, Kiela Brevard and Jimmy Salmon. The basketball community is here to support you guys through this tough time. This is my experience of writing one of these stories and I hope it is the last. Rest In Peace Armoni “Live Wire” Sexton.

Diary Of A Baller: James "Buckets" Bishop (Baltimore, MD) Entry #1

April 21, 2015, 4:45 am

≫ Next: Basketball Spotlight MDC Reduces Rate Because Of EBC Situation!

≪ Previous: REST IN PEACE: ARMONI "LIVE WIRE" SEXTON!

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James "Buckets" Bishop (B'More Finest)

Hello everyone my name is James Bishop IV and I would like to start off by saying thanks to Bball Spotlight for giving me the opportunity to tell you guys a little bit about me. I’m in the 8th Grade from Baltimore and play AAU for B’More Finest. We are sponsored by Under Armor. I feel as though this year is a huge year of basketball for me because next year I would be entering high school at Mount Saint Joseph’s. My brother Jevaun (mentor and trainer) and I have been working very hard. We do a 3 a day workout schedule, so I wake up at 6:00 AM and work on my ball handling for about an hour. I then attend school (I’m Homeschooled), after that I find a local gym to work out at for two hours. My final workout consists of cardio and exercise. I run two miles, do pushups, sit ups, calf raises and lunges. I’m finally ready to go home, eat, study, shower and get some sleep. 

This Saturday was a long day for me. I had my usual 6:00 AM workout and then about 8:00 I went to get my haircut. After leaving the barbershop I went straight to workouts at the Y with Troy Parker, he’s another trainer I work on my game with. We went hard from 10-12 then I took a little break and got back at it from 12:30-2. After that I went to visit my grandmother for a couple of hours and then hung out at the movies for the rest of the evening. 

Sunday was a real laid back day. I just went to the Banneker Community Center and worked out. Thanks again for entering my world. I will see you guys next week with more details. 

James “Buckets” Bishop IV

Basketball Spotlight MDC Reduces Rate Because Of EBC Situation!

April 21, 2015, 5:40 am

≫ Next: Spotlight Exclusive: Coach Francis Speaks Out About AC Showcase!

≪ Previous: Diary Of A Baller: James "Buckets" Bishop (Baltimore, MD) Entry #1

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Due to the Elevate Basketball Circuit situation Basketball Spotlight has decided to discount the entry fee for the Basketball Spotlight Memorial Day Classic. We understand that the circumstances has caused several teams to lose money therefore we have reduced our entry fees for a single team entry from $400 to $325 and our multi-team discount has been reduced from $350 to $300. The new registration links are below and we hope that this helps out some of the teams that were affected by the closing of the EBC. Any teams that registered under the original rate will be given a refund of their balance at the event. 

MDC Registration (Single Team) 

MDC Registration (Multi Team Discount)

Spotlight Exclusive: Coach Francis Speaks Out About AC Showcase!

April 21, 2015, 9:13 am

≫ Next: Walker And Campbell Best Backcourt In America?

≪ Previous: Basketball Spotlight MDC Reduces Rate Because Of EBC Situation!

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Coach Francis (Terror Squad)

Many people including myself wondered how the Terror Squad would respond at the AC Showcase. They were coming off a stunning loss during the semifinals of Winter Warz and word spread about players exploring other options. Things looked bleak after a lopsided loss to George Hill Rising Stars and a belief that they were eliminated from the tournament. They returned to action Sunday and rebounded to win the championship. Basketball Spotlight sat down with Coach Francis and here’s what he had to say about the AC Showcase. 


BS: How was the experience of winning the exclusive AC Showcase? 
CF: The hype was real; the event delivered ~ when you step into an event where there is nowhere to hide, where every opponent has a number in front of their name winning in that environment means something. Nothing was given and everything the kids got was earned – we have taken the hardware home in every single event we have played in throughout the country this year except one; but the AC Showcase Championship means something. Not just to the players, parents, and coaching staff but to the rest of the country. If you claim to be the best you want the AC Showcase on your resume. 

BS: How did you get your guys to rebound from that huge lost to George Hill Rising Stars? 
CF: Losing stinks. Whether you are a player or coach, how you handle losing speaks about your character, your competitiveness, your commitment to excellence, and determining whether losing will become a habit or the initial spark that ignites success. Even though losing is not the end of the world, losing should hurt and I would be lying if I said collectively we weren’t disappointed. When you invest an inordinate amount of time, effort, and love into something like the game of basketball, losing should hurt. If it doesn't hurt, then you don't care. And if you don't care, you shouldn't be playing. We rebounded by caring, caring about each other, caring about our committed to be great, and this was the spark that ignited our success for the remainder of the event. 

BS: Explain how you felt when you thought you were eliminated from the tournament but then it turns out it was a mistake on our end? 
CF: First and foremost, I personally have a great deal of respect for George Hill and Coach Mike Saunders; his team beat us in every facet of the game. They outplayed us, out coached us, and were simply the better team. In a one game high level scenario’s you don’t have room for multiple mistakes. I thanked Coach Saunders for smacking us all awake. I was tremendously disappointed initially learning and thinking that our tournament run was over – but as I told the kids, when you put your destiny in the control of others you have to live with the results. As well, I explained that in life you don’t always get a second chance but when and if you do; you appreciate and take advantage of the opportunity. Frankly, I was thankful that someone was aware of the rule, because honestly I had no idea and I was already game planning for another team. At the end of the day I was “thankful” for the opportunity it presented to the kids – as they took full advantage of the opportunity and the loss became a teaching moment for them. 

BS: Where does winning the #1 event in the country put your team in terms of the national elite? 
CF: Basketball is a game that guarantees you can’t always be at your best, and being the best means forever chasing a ceiling no one else can reach. We aren’t chasing titles or trophies – our roster, our schedule, and our mindset has a singular focus and that’s being the best “team” we can be for us. With the deepest roster in the country when we play our game and the players are coachable – we are a Terror and a tough out for anyone. This product was designed to the be the best in America period; and even after losing some of the top players in the country along the way the core players continue produce on a high level and win. The players not with us would make a top 10 team nationally and to that point I believe we have to be on the short list of the top teams in the country. There are still some boxes that remain unchecked in terms of goals that were set the first time we stepped in the gym together – I look forward to the challenge of proving we are the best of the best on the court. 

BS: How is the Terror Squad handling all the pressure of being one of the top teams in the country? 
CF: The pressure, the attention, the hype, the expectations are unparalleled. This group of players, parents, and coaches take basketball very, very seriously – it’s not easy; there is a voracious appetite for victory that expects to be fed each time we step onto the court, a need so primal that it carries with it an unrealistic level of expectation and, in turn, an extraordinary burden of pressure. We have a lot of strong personalities, very talented kids, who have grown accustom to winning. We have won yes…and that’s great – but the challenge for this group is respecting the game, being dedicated to the process, and being able to believe in and trust each other. When this group “gets it” and they have for stretches; and figures out that if they play as team and singular unit that no one can beat them is when they will achieve their full potential. Event at 57-2 we still have complaints/issues, but I refuse to give up on any kid and I believe it’s not an if, but a when that they will figure this out. The game at the next level is play selflessly; their future success depends on their understanding of this concept. 

BS: What message do you have for the elite teams that didn’t attend this event? 
CF: I understand. It’s easy to gallivant around and beat on your chest. It’s easy to impose your will on a tailor made schedule. At the end of the day at this level and the next those that know, know where the best tournaments and leagues are. For those who choose to avoid in their entirety this circuit and this level of play and specifically this event. I understand. There are some great teams that didn’t attend this specific event as great as it was; but you see them in other high level events – respect to them all. The AC Showcase year in and year out continues to be a forum where you can prove; you are who you say you are. Again, I understand. What I don’t understand is how someone wants to be mentioned with the best as the best – tells folks not to run from them; but fails to show up when the lights are at their brightest. That’s what America and what I don’t understand. 

BS: Since the AAU Nationals will not be the same this year, what championships are you guys trying to seal up your place as the best in the country? 
CF: As I mentioned before, the first day in the gym we laid out the goals – the AC Showcase was on the list and that box has been check. There were a set of clubs that we wanted to see independently or in events and many of them as well, have been checked off the list. There were goals that we had that spoke to opportunities for the kids and their future and those have prevailed and are continuing to be developed with respect to next level circuit access. We are competing in the NYBL and that league championship is on the list. The easiest way to put it is like this; if we win every game, event and league that we compete in I don’t think that the country can deny these kids the title as the best in the country. I love each one of them and of course I am biased in this one instance but I they have the potential and deserve this title. 

BS: Any parting shots for the fans out there? 
CF: I love the kids on all levels; there are so many talented and special kids and teams all across the country – there is such joy in seeing each of them continue to grow, mature, and get better – never stop believing and achieving your dreams. But there are two things that remain consistent at every level of basketball from youth to the pro’s first, it’s always about development & improving and two, in order to be the man, you have to beat the man.

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Walker And Campbell Best Backcourt In America?

April 22, 2015, 5:52 am

≫ Next: Memorial Contribution Site and Basketball Classic Set Up For Memory Of Armoni Sexton!

≪ Previous: Spotlight Exclusive: Coach Francis Speaks Out About AC Showcase!

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Tyger Campbell and Marquise Walker

Marquise Walker and Tyger Campbell are two of the top guards in the country, and now they both play for We All Can Go. Together they are possibly the best backcourt in the country. Both players have national reps and have put on a show at Spotlight events. Are they currently the best backcourt in the country? I guess we will find out at the Grand Finale in June!

Memorial Contribution Site and Basketball Classic Set Up For Memory Of Armoni Sexton!

April 23, 2015, 7:06 am

≫ Next: Diary Of A Baller: James "Buckets" Bishop (Baltimore, MD) Entry #2

≪ Previous: Walker And Campbell Best Backcourt In America?

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The basketball community was struck a hard blow with the tragic death of rising star Armoni Sexton. The alleged person responsible for Sexton’s death has been arrested but his family still needs the help of the basketball community. The Sexton family has developed a Go Fund Me Account to help with the ceremony and other aspects concerning his unfortunate death. Please find it in your heart to help this family during this tough time. Below is the link for you guys to send your donation. I’m sure any amount will be greatly appreciated. 

The Armoni Sexton Classic is set for May 2nd at East Side High School in Paterson, NJ. The City League Game is slated for 12:00 PM and the High School is set for 1:30 PM. Any high school players interested in participating please contact Sam White at 973-460-5780. 

Armoni Sexton Memorial Link

Diary Of A Baller: James "Buckets" Bishop (Baltimore, MD) Entry #2

April 27, 2015, 6:49 am

≫ Next: Scottie "The Show" Lewis Drops New Mixtape

≪ Previous: Memorial Contribution Site and Basketball Classic Set Up For Memory Of Armoni Sexton!

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Bishop Getting Ready To Rock

Monday was back to school for me after a long weekend. I got up at 6:00 am did my morning workout and got ready for school! After school I went to St Benedict’s gym and worked out and got some shots up on the gun. After that I went home did my usual physical routine, ate, showered and tuned in to my favorite point guard Stephen Curry. 

Tuesday, I got up ate breakfast and got ready for school after a long day of school I went to Western Tech High School and worked out after that I chilled at the house until my brother got home that's when we went down to the gym. I ran two miles and did my physical workout after that we went and worked on ball handling. For about 45 minutes. That took us until about 10:30 by then it was time for me to shower and get to bed. 

Wednesday was pretty much same as Tuesday I went to Western Tech worked out then after got my two miles, physical workout and ball handling workout. Then I got some homework done and went straight to bed. 

Thursday was pretty much last time I would be able to get in the gym to prepare for NYBL. I went to school in the morning then after school I got in the gym from 6-8. Later I went home to a little surprise, my brother brought home the Xbox one and 2k15. So after I did my physical workout and instead of ball handling I did some film study on some good PGs like Marquise Teague, Tyler Ulis , Isaiah Briscoe , I played 2k15 for rest night! 

Friday was no school for me I’m just packing getting ready to leave to Virginia for second session of NYBL! But my brother wanted me to be sharp when I left so we got up and did some ball handling for about 45 minutes. Then I packed the rest of my things and waited on my ride. 

This was a big weekend for me and my B’More Finest. We had a lot of big games and went 4-1 this weekend. We pulled off big wins against West Coast All Stars and I scored a game high 32 and New Heights where I had 24 and 5! I played pretty well this weekend I tried to work on getting my teammates involved while also looking for my shots. I’m really exhausted and ready to get home and relax and get ready for school.

Scottie "The Show" Lewis Drops New Mixtape

April 28, 2015, 5:48 am

≫ Next: Basketball Spotlight Top 10 4th Grade Presented By AGame Team Apparel

≪ Previous: Diary Of A Baller: James "Buckets" Bishop (Baltimore, MD) Entry #2

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“The Show” Shining Bright! 

Scottie Lewis has put together a spectacular 8th Grade year thus far. His dominated the middle school scene with Ranney School and has been outstanding thus far playing with Team RIO National. His exciting play has caused him to be followed and displayed by many of the top video companies in the country. Check out his latest mix-tape highlighting his middle school exploits and play at the Basketball Spotlight AC Showcase.

Basketball Spotlight Top 10 4th Grade Presented By AGame Team Apparel

April 28, 2015, 10:53 am

≫ Next: Basketball Spotlight Top 10 5th Grade Presented By AGame Team Apparel

≪ Previous: Scottie "The Show" Lewis Drops New Mixtape

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The Basketball Spotlight Top 10 4th Grade Teams are listed below. The Atlantic City Showcase gave us a chance to extend our list to 10 teams. Remember this list is just our opinion and should be taken as such. 

Basketball Spotlight Top 10 4th Grade Presented By AGame Team Apparel 

1. Riverside Hawks: They are undefeated on the Spotlight circuit after winning the loaded AC Showcase. It’s hard to imagine a better 4th Grade squad around than these boys. They have to be the favorite for the MDC and Grand Finale. 

2. MADE Signature: The Maryland group was absent from the AC Showcase and we might not see them again until the Grand Finale. No worries they have stacked up a lot of points. 

3. Team Takeover: TTO made it to another championship round and this time came up short against Riverside Hawks. 

4. Havoc City: This talented bunch was absent from the AC Showcase but I think we should see them again around Grand Finale time. 

5. Gauchos: The Choz made a final four run at the loaded AC Showcase. They have the prices to be around for a while. 

6. NY Rens: This stubborn group has a lot of young talent. Hopefully they will let us see what they have when if they enter the MDC. 

7. B’More Finest: The scrappy bunch came to play at the AC Showcase. They came up short of winning the title but they will still have a shot at the Grand Finale crown. 

8. King Street Kings: KSK made their Spotlight debut and advanced to the quarterfinals of the AC Showcase. 

9. Hilltopper Heat: This group gas been hanging around and might be prepared to make a late run for the Grand Finale Championship. 

10. New Heights: NH has a decent showing at the AC Showcase. We will be looking out for them if they decide to enter the MDC or Grand Finale.

Basketball Spotlight Top 10 5th Grade Presented By AGame Team Apparel

April 29, 2015, 5:13 am

≫ Next: Introducing: Sonny Johnson Jr. AKA Magic!

≪ Previous: Basketball Spotlight Top 10 4th Grade Presented By AGame Team Apparel

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The Basketball Spotlight Top 10 5th Grade Teams are listed below. The AC Showcase added a couple of new teams to our list and shook a few things up. Remember this list is just our opinion and should be taken as such. 

Basketball Spotlight Top 10 5th Grade Presented By AGame Team Apparel 

1. Havoc City: HC was absent from the loaded AC Showcase but have been so dominant early on they still hold down the #1 Spot. They won’t be around for the MDC but should be a lock for the Grand Finale National Championship. 

2. Maryland Finest: The National Champs came down to the hardest tournament in the country and took home the title. I think they have enough in the tank to take home the Grand Finale championship. 

3. NY Rens: The Winter Warz champs didn’t have a great performance at the AC Showcase which means a lot at this stage of the game. 

4. Riverside Hawks: RH once again came up short of getting that elusive championship. This should make them even hungrier for the MDC. 

5. Gauchos: The Choz made a big championship run at the AC Showcase. Another strong event like that could shot them at least into the Top 5.

6. 60 Elite: A tough loss in the final four made things really for this group. They have the fire power to defeat any top team in the country. 

7. Banneker Kings: Banneker Kings have been out of the Spotlight since Clash For The Cup. We will probably see them at the Grand Finale National Championships. 

8. George Hill Rising Stars: GH made their yearly trip to America’s Playground and came away with a final four finish. 

9. B’More Finest: This hungry bunch will be itching to get back into action after coming up short at the AC Showcase. After taking off the MDC we will likely see them at the Grand Finale National Championship. 

10. Hilltoppers Heat: HH is an interesting bunch that we will be keeping our eye on. We should see them again at the MDC.

Introducing: Sonny Johnson Jr. AKA Magic!

April 29, 2015, 6:04 am

≫ Next: Jalen Newhouse Still Getting Buckets!

≪ Previous: Basketball Spotlight Top 10 5th Grade Presented By AGame Team Apparel

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Sonny Johnson Putting In Work!

Sonny Johnson Jr earned the nickname "Magic" after his performance at the 2015 NEO Youth Elite Camp. Sonny Johnson found open teammates with precise passes and creative dimes that left the defense standing still. The Class of 2022 basketball prospect is a big point guard who runs his team with precision. Basketball Spotlight will be reaching out to Sonny to get him down to the Future Phenom Camp In August.

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Jalen Newhouse Still Getting Buckets!

April 29, 2015, 7:13 am

≫ Next: Basketball Spotlight Top 10 6th Grade Teams Presented By AGame Team Apparel

≪ Previous: Introducing: Sonny Johnson Jr. AKA Magic!

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Jalen Newhouse Can Stroke It!

Jalen Newhouse made a national splash last summer when he came to the Basketball Spotlight Future Phenom Camp and put in work. Newhouse proved to be a fluid scorer and possessed one of the best jumpers in the country. He has a serious work ethic and should become better down the road. Check out some of his highlights from this season. We can’t wait to see him back at the Future Phenom Camp.

Basketball Spotlight Top 10 6th Grade Teams Presented By AGame Team Apparel

April 29, 2015, 10:08 am

≫ Next: Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Top 10 Teams Presented By AGame Team Apparel

≪ Previous: Jalen Newhouse Still Getting Buckets!

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The Basketball Spotlight Top 10 6th Grade Teams are listed below. The AC Showcase produced us a new #1 team and had some movement in our poll. Remember these team rankings are just our opinion and should be taken as such. 

Basketball Spotlight Top 10 6th Grade Teams Presented By AGame Team Apparel 

1. Team IZOD: Yes Team IZOD has taken over the #1 spot. They won the loaded AC Showcase and possess two of the Top 3 players in America. They are shaping up to be considered the best team in the country. 

2. New World Unlimited: NWU lost to Team IZOD in the semifinals and are licking their chops at another chance against the Jersey squad. They have a real chance of meeting up at the Grand Finale National Championship. 

3. Philly Triple Threat: PTT didn’t have a great showing during the AC Showcase but their Winter Warz title is carrying a lot of weight. They will be making a trip to the MDC before going to the Grand Finale National Championship. 

4. Team Takeover: TTO proved to be one of the best teams in the region after advancing to the championship at the AC Showcase. They have a great chance to show up at the Grand Finale National Championship and win it all. 

5. B’More Finest: A final four finish at the AC Showcase has this team still among the Top 5. They are setting themselves up to become party crashers at the Grand Finale National Championship. 

6. Gauchos: They Gauchos advanced to the quarterfinals in AC and continues to be one of the most dangerous teams around. We will be also looking for them to enter the Grand Finale National Championships in June. 

7. Hilltopper Heat: HH also made a quarterfinal run during the AC Showcase. They will return to action during the MDC. They have a great chance to win it all. 

8. Team Durant: I’m up in the air with this team. Once we figure out there new name and personal we will move them accordingly. 

9. NY Rens: I think this group has some good pieces and we look forward to watching them at the MDC. 

10. Riverside Hawks: RH jumps into the Top 10 after winning the AC Showcase Blue Division championship. They will get a chance to collect more metal at the MDC.

Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Top 10 Teams Presented By AGame Team Apparel

April 30, 2015, 5:11 am

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The Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Top 10 is listed below. The AC Showcase brought us some in our polls and shook things up a little. Remember these rankings are just our opinion and should be taken as such. 

Basketball Spotlight 7th Grade Top 10 Teams Presented By AGame Team Apparel

1. Terror Squad: TTO rebounded from a mercy rule loss to George Hill Rising Stars to winning the championship. Right now they are in the driver’s seat of winning running the table and winning the Grand Finale National Championship. 

2. George Hill Rising Stars: Yes they deserve this spot by defeating many of the top teams including #1 Terror Squad by 20 the first time around. If they decide to attend the Grand Finale National Championship things could get interesting. 

3. King Street Kings: A quarterfinal loss in the AC Showcase was not what this team expected. But their Winter Warz championship has them still in the Top 3. 

4. DC Premier: A final four finish moved this team up for few spots. They always seem to be in the race to win it all. They have a good chance to win the Grand Finale National Championship.  

5. PSA Cardinals: The Cardinals had an off showing at the AC Showcase. This uncharacteristic showing had them drop a few places in our rankings. They will probably use the MDC as a tune for the Grand Finale National Championship. 

6. Team IZOD: IZOD made it to the quarterfinals of the AC Showcase before losing to a talented RIP City program. The NJ squad already booked their ticket for the Grand Finale National Championship. 

7. RIP City: RC made their Spotlight debut and made it to the final four in AC. They have the fire power to run the table and win the Grand Finale National Championship if they enter. 

8. Gauchos: The Choz fell short in the quarterfinals of the AC Showcase. We might have seen the last of this group unless they take the trip to the Grand Finale National Championship. 

9. Team Charlotte: This group was a pleasant surprise during the AC Showcase. They brought the intensity and had some good pieces. Hopefully we see them again before the season ends. 

10. Brooklyn Rens: BK Rens lost their first game of the AC Showcase then turned around and ran the table. They will be at the MDC and possibly show up for the Grand Finale National Championship.

Diary Of A Baller: James "Buckets" Bishop (Baltimore, MD) Entry #3

May 5, 2015, 6:25 am

≫ Next: Spotlight Alum Temple Gibbs Jr. Selects Notre Dame!

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James "Buckets" Bishop 

Hello Basketball World, 

This is James Bishop and here’s how my week went. 

Monday I took it easy and gave my body a break because I just came off of six hard games at the NYBL. I came home from school and rested. As many of you know my city has been going through some tough times right now with the protesting and rioting. I juts chilled with my mom while sharing our views and opinions about the situation. 

Tuesday it was back to the grind and hard work so after school my God-brother Josh and I went to work out with my brother. It was a nice day out so we decided to get our work done outside. After that we went back to the house and I worked on ball handling for another hour. Later I did my two mile run, took a lunch break, did my physical workout and then dropped my brother off at work. Finally I went home and did my homework before going to sleep. 

Wednesday I woke up for school in the morning and then after school I went to MSJ to workout with my future high school coach. When I left him I went to the YMCA to get another workout in. After that I went home and got ready for bed. 

On Thursday I woke up at 6 am and did my physical workout. I then ate breakfast and got ready for school. After school I went straight to Western Tech for a workout from 6 to 8 pm. After working out I got some cool news that I was elected to play in the 8 eye all-star game in Philly. 

On Friday it was the same routine as I went to school and then Dru Hill to touch up on some things before the game. I came home and chilled with my brother and niece Charley for the rest of the night. 

Saturday was game day. My family and I took the trip up to Philly for the 8 eye all-star game. I wanted to put on a show because my niece and brother was in attendance. I played pretty well ending with about 15 and 7. It was a good experience and my team won. After the game my brother told me I still had to get my two workouts in. So I hit the gym to do my physical workout and ran two miles before working on my ball handling for another hour. Finally, I went out to the movies and chilled for the rest of the night. 

Sunday was a chill out day. My grandfather planned a little family reunion and brunch for the family. After that I relaxed and watched Chef Curry play. After that I went home did my homework and got ready for school. 

See you Guys Next Week. 

James “Buckets” Bishop

Spotlight Alum Temple Gibbs Jr. Selects Notre Dame!

May 5, 2015, 6:53 am

≫ Next: Basketball Spotlight 8th Grade Top 10 Presented By AGame Team Apparel

≪ Previous: Diary Of A Baller: James "Buckets" Bishop (Baltimore, MD) Entry #3

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Basketball Spotlight is proud to announce that Alum Temple Gibbs Jr. has selected the University of Notre Dame for college. Gibbs started his Spotlight career with King Street Kings in the 5th Grade, he then moved on to KYDA which eventually merged into Team Scan. Gibbs put together one of the best 8th seasons in Spotlight history. He totally dominated our circuit while leading Team Scan to the Grand Finale crown and taking home the Player Of The Year honors. 

Basketball Spotlight would like to congratulate Gibbs and his family for his collage selection. I have known their family for years and saw Temple’s older brothers Ashton and Sterling come through the ranks. I believe a special appreciation should be giving to their parents (Temple Sr. and Jacqui) for not only developing three Division 1 players but more importantly three excellent young men.