2016 Peach Jam Preview Magazine by SportsEngine

Contents

FEATURES

34-37

2016 EYBL MVP HE IS ONE CENT: PJ WASHINGTON

46-49 52-55

THE RISE OF QUADE GREEN

56-58

JARED VANDERBILT: UNFINISHED BUSINESS

60-61

TRAE YOUNG: FLOOR GENERAL

62-73

NIKE EYBL PEACH JAM CHAMPIONS: A RETROSPECTIVE

104-135 38-43 136-159

PLAYER INTERVIEWS 1ST, 2ND, 3RD ALL EYBL TEAMS TEAM ROSTERS AND SCHEDULES

ALEC KINSKY

JONAH STEINMEYER Editor/ Operations Manager Creative Director JOE COLEMAN BRIANNA LEWERKE Content Specialist Content Specialist OWEN KINSKY

NATE BUCKSO

Writer/ Editor ROBIN MARQUARDYT Editor/ Operations Manager

Writer BRAD HANSON

PHOTO CREDITS: JON LOPEZ/NIKE, Krossover

Editor

TEAM PREVIEWS Albany City Rocks

26-27

BABC

84-85

CIA Bounce

14-15

California Supreme

24-25

E1T1 United

80-81

Expressions Elite

98-99

Houston Hoops

88-89

Howard Pulley

92-93

King James

100-101

Las Vegas Prospects

102-103

Meanstreets

10-11

MOKAN Elite

94-95

Nike South Beach

16-17

Phoenix Phamily

30-31

Playaz Basketball Club Pro Skills PSA Cardinals

8-9 28-29 6-7

Spiece Indy Heat

12-13

St. Louis Eagles

22-23

Team CP3

78-79

Team Final

82-83

Team Penny

20-21

Team Takeover

96-97

The NY RENS

86-87

RECORD: 14-2

FINISH: 1ST DIVISION C

PSA CARDINALS

he PSA Cardinals had their sights set high this season. They were coming off a run to the Peach Jam quarterfinals, and their roster this year was arguably more loaded. But the emergence of Quade Green - one of the best playmakers and passers in EYBL history - made PSA one of the most dangerous teams on the circuit and the favorite to achieve their goal of a Peach Jam title. Green’s progression from a great scorer to an

outstanding floor general has been a boon for PSA’s arsenal,

See roster on page 153 including Brandon Randolph and Mo Bamba. The pair have

excelled playing with a point guard who can to find them for open looks. Head coach Munch Williams has arguably his most talented group, which is a loaded statement considering the talent he’s boasted in years past. After an injury-plagued summer with WE R1 of the Under Armour Circuit, Green (ESPN 2017 No. 22) entered this grassroots season with a chip on his shoulder and he has exceeded even the loftiest @D1CIRCUIT

QUADE GREEN

14.1 PPG 2.8 RPG 10.5 APG

expectations. Green (14.1 PPG, 10.5 APG) added another wrinkle to his skill set each session and has progressed from a great scorer to an outstanding floor general. He has been outstanding distributing, increased his scoring average and even won Defensive Player of the Session in Hampton. He holds offers from the likes of Duke, Kentucky and Syracuse, making him one of the hottest point guard commodities in the country. Schools at the next level are attracted to his high basketball IQ and overall toughness, two traits that PSA will be relying on in North Augusta. Randolph (ESPN 2017 No. 43) entered the season under the radar but has grown into one of the circuit’s elite scorers. Standing at 6-foot-6, Randolph (16.5 PPG) excels with the ball in his hands, whether it is slashing to the hoop, passing the ball or creating shots on the perimeter and is the main beneficiary of the defensive pressure applied to Green and Bamba. With the potential for

BRANDON RANDOLPH

16.5 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 40.2 3PT%

plenty of open looks in North Augusta, Randolph could be on the verge of a breakout performance. Big men Deng Gak, a junior, and Mamadou Doucoure, a sophomore, both receive minutes in PSA’s frontline rotation. Both players are long, big bodies that are expected to contribute strong post defense. The X factor for this squad is guard Cole Anthony, a freshman who has improved throughout the season and is primed to play a major role in PSA’s title hopes. Anthony (ESPN 2019 No. 9) does a bit of everything and has done a fine job as the backup point guard. Big man Hasahn French stepped up at Hampton and Atlanta, allowing this team to adjust seamlessly without Bamba. French (ESPN 3-Star)

MO BAMBA:

12.7 PPG, 13.9 RPG 3.1 BPG

credits his improved footwork and confidence in his jumper with his surge. The 7-foot Bamba (ESPN 2017 No. 3) should be close to full health, and has made it known that he intends to ‘dominate’ the Peach Jam competition. He meshes well with this unit and gives PSA a starting five that could compete with any grassroots basketball team in the nation. If you haven’t seen Bamba play, he is must-see entertainment. He plays with relentless energy, does the little things and doesn’t demand the basketball in order to be effective. His presence alone will disrupt shots in the lane, and not many squads will have an answer for his defensive prowess. If he’s healthy - and it sounds like he is - you are reading about a Peach Jam Most Valuable Player candidate. The Cardinals are a tough draw, and while they lack significant Peach Jam experience, their toughness and talent are unmatched in Pool A. Health could be the only obstacle standing between PSA and a Peach Jam Title come July 10.

RECORD: 11-5

FINISH: 4TH DIVISION D

PLAYAZ CLUB

he Playaz closed out the regular season with four straight victories to finish with an 11-5 record. They also have four wins over Peach Jam contenders, including a convincing rivalry win over Team Final in Session 4. Despite lacking a clear post presence, the Playaz made the Peach Jam field again and did so while proving to be one of the circuit’s most potent offensive teams. Their secret? A backcourt that has versatility,

skill and depth. The combined presences by playing fast and skill set of the guards allows the scoring in bunches. Led by do-it-all point guard Leondre Washington, the Playaz can compete with any team on the circuit as long as their shots are falling. Washington (12.3 PPG, 4.4 APG, 3.0 RPG) has been one of the more underrated players in the league this season, and he will be looking to showcase his dynamic shooting and playmaking abilities on the Playaz to overcome struggles against teams with strong post biggest stage. A true floor

See roster on page 152

@D1CIRCUIT

LEONDRE WASHINGTON

12.3 PPG 3.0 RPG 4.4 APG

general, Washington finds his backcourt mates first and then gets his own points within the natural flow of the offense. Joining Washington in the backcourt are RJ Cole (12.2 PPG, 50.7% 3PFG) and Jamir Harris (12.3 PPG, 40.5% 3PFG), a pair of sharpshooters who help make this offense go. Cole shoots 50.7 percent from the 3-point line, while Harris hits at 40.5 percent and has a teamhigh 47 3-pointers. Head coach Jamal Slappy leads a crew that made an EYBL-high 128 3-pointers, 14 more than the next team. Harris (ESPN 4-Star), who stars at the Patrick School in New Jersey, is the Playaz highest ranked player and statistically their best shooter, so you can assume he will be heavily focused on by the opposition. Expect this team to come out firing in pool A, as getting buckets from the perimeter is their clearest path to success. Marcus McClary (9.9 PPG), also a star for The Patrick School, is a slasher who complements his backcourt mates. McClary’s production has suffered

JAMIR HARRIS

12.3 PPG 2.6 RPG 1.4 APG

because he plays out of position when four guards are on the court, but he filled a void and has contributed to the team’s. Forward Elijah Barnes has shouldered much of the rebounding and interior scoring load, but his physical style of play allows him to hold his own against much bigger players. Barnes (7.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG) can hit jumpers out to 12 feet, and when Playaz are hitting 3-pointers and getting out in transition, they can really stretch a defense. They complement their impressive shooting with ball security and discipline. Perhaps the Playaz’ most impressive statistic is their 9.4 turnovers per game, which is tied with Howard Pulley for fewest committed by teams in Peach Jam field. The Playaz also average just 11.0

RJ COLE

12.2 PPG 3.1 RPG 3.1 APG

fouls per game, which is solid considering they are among the league’s lowest producers in steals and blocks. With its talented group of guards, the Playaz have risen to the top of the league and are riding a ton of confidence heading into July. Washington, Cole, Harris and McClary bring consistent outside shooting that will be hard to stop, and they move the ball extremely well. What will determine how far this team goes is its ability to overcome the lack of a major post presence. Aside from the PSA Cardinals, there isn’t another clear-cut favorite in Pool A, so the Playaz have a shot to sneak in if they get hot. They must play to their strengths and be extremely active on the perimeter, and if they can, there is a good chance the Playaz will advance to bracket play. Director Jimmy Salmon’s program is a staple at the Peach Jam, winning the title in 2014, so you can be assured they will be ready to compete at the highest level.

RECORD: 9-7

FINISH: 5TH DIVISION A

MEANSTREETS

ut simply, the last two seasons have been a disappointment for Chicago MeanStreets. Unable to find any consistency, MeanStreets missed Peach Jam both years, failing to recreate the magic that Tyler Ulis brought to North Augusta in 2013. Not wanting to miss July’s action for a third straight year, the team rebounded nicely with a 9-7 record in Division A and secured a berth in the event. MeanStreets started hot

in Brooklyn and Indianapolis, sprinting to a 3-1 record. That

See roster on page 146 early success proved to be important, as the schedule

caught up to them in Hampton and Atlanta, where they couldn’t string together more than two wins in a row and they closed the season with a 6-6 record. MeanStreets’ star is unquestionably Brian Bowen, a 6-foot-7 junior from La Lumiere (Indiana) who made an immediate impact in the EYBL en route to earning AllBrooklyn honors during Session 1. Bowen (ESPN 2017 No. 10) does a little bit of everything,

@D1CIRCUIT

BRIAN BOWEN 18.9 PPG 75.5 FT% 7.4 RPG but his scoring is his strongest attribute. Due to his size and skill set, Bowen (18.9 PPG, 7.4 RPG) is a difficult matchup for defenders. He attacks the basket at will and isn’t afraid of getting fouled or going to the free-throw line, where converts at 75.5 percent. Bowen doesn’t shoot the ball incredibly well from behind the arc, but his strong defense more than makes up for any of his offensive deficiencies. Assisting Bowen are guards Alonzo Verge (ESPN 2017 No. 72), Nojel Eastern (ESPN 2017 No. 73), Lucas Williamson (7.3 PPG, 2.9 RPG) and Dayton commit Evan Gilyard. Each brings something different to the table, with Gilyard (6.6 PPG, 3.6 APG) adopting the floor general role. The 6-foot-6 Eastern (9.4 PPG, 4.9 RPG) provides much more value than his averages imply, and we expect him to have a breakout July. Verge (9.9 PPG, 2.2 APG) is a true scorer and will continue to see open looks as defenses apply pressure to Bowen and Eastern. MeanStreets’ rotation is very short and plays small due

ISAIAH LIVERS 9.7 PPG 53.2 FG% 5.5 RPG

in part to a lack of depth in the frontcourt. However, the two big men who see playing time are worthy of their minutes. Isaiah Livers (9.7 PPG, 5.5 RPG) has had a terrific spring as the lone forward in starting lineup. At 6-foot-8, he helps stretch the floor with his success from behind the 3-point line (40.5 percent) while being equally adept inside the line, where his athleticism has him shooting an efficient 53.2 percent from the field. Livers has gained national attention and is No. 70 in ESPN’s most recent 2017 Top 100 rankings. He picked up an offer from Butler in early June and has interest from Michigan and Xavier. Look for Livers to excel on the big stage, as his production will be vitally important to MeanStreets’ success at Peach Jam.

NOJEL EASTERN 9.4 PPG 4.9 RPG 2.0 RPG

Joining Livers in the frontcourt is EYBL veteran Jaron Faulds, a 6-foot-10 big man who saw time last year with The Family Detroit. This highmajor big man (ESPN 4-Star) must continue channeling that experience into improved production, and Peach Jam provides him with another opportunity to improve his stock. It was an up-and-down season for MeanStreets, but they should love where they are sitting heading into North Augusta. While the team’s rotation is a bit thin, itscore contains four top-100 players, and MeanStreets have proven they can defeat anyone in the field, highlighted by wins over Team CP3 and Pro Skills. Bowen must be better than ever, and the team will likely need another guard to step up, but this MeanStreets squad is capable of doing damage in pool play. While they certainly won’t be favored to advance into the bracket round, MeanStreets could play spoiler in early July behind some stellar games from their ranked stars.

RECORD: 9-7

he last time we saw Spiece in North Augusta was in 2014 when they featured star big men Deyonta Davis and Caleb Swanigan. Two years removed from their last Peach Jam appearance, Spiece Indy Heat entered this season with relatively modest expectations, and despite losing three of four games in Atlanta, this squad is a dark horse to win the title. Their rotation features a total of nine players, with five of them being 6-foot-8 or taller. They

FINISH: WILD CARD DIVISION D

INDY HEAT were ranked for most of the season, an indication that they

See roster on page 154 have more than enough talent to contest for the Peach Jam

crown. Spiece was already stacked with talent and had a solid rotation before freshman sensation Tyger Campbell (ESPN 2019 No. 24) joined the team following his departure from We All Can Go, two sessions into the season. With a stacked backcourt, a pair of versatile forwards and great team chemistry, Spiece needs to find their successful stride from sessions two and three. The star for this team is

@D1CIRCUIT

JAREN JACKSON JR TYGER CAMPBELL XAVIER TILLMAN 17.1 PPG 12.2 PPG 15.7 PPG 6.9 RPG 61.5 FG% 4.5 APG 2.1 BPG 7.3 RPG 2.1 RPG swingman Jaren Jackson, Jr. (ESPN 2017 No. 25), who has managed to fly under the radar despite putting up huge numbers the entire season. Jackson (17.1 PPG, 6.9 RPG) excels at slashing to the basket, but he has become an excellent playmaker and ballhandler, which has increased his stock and Spiece’s overall production. He shoots 43.8% from the perimeter, the best percentage of a player over 6-foot-10. Also starring in the frontcourt is Xavier Tillman, a bruising forward who is efficient on offense (61.5 FG%). Scoring mostly around the basket and from the free-throw line, the 6-foot-9, 240 pound Tillman (ESPN 2017 No. 68) averages nearly 13 points per game and leads the team in rebounding at 7.3 per game. Sophomore Brandon Johns (6-foot-8) and junior Jaylen Butz (6-foot-9) help Spiece create the biggest rotation in the Peach Jam field, and both will see valuable minutes in pool play. Johns (ESPN 2018 No. 33) is a highly sought after recruit, and the East Lansing (MIchigan) big man will

have plenty of college scouts watching him play. While Spiece has talent upfront, their true strength lies in the depth and versatility of the backcourt. DePaul commit Justin Roberts (11.9 PPG) and James Beck (8.0 PPG) were more than holding their own before Campbell (13.1 PPG, 3.9 APG) joined the squad. Roberts and Campbell can both play on or off the ball and either can make plays within the offense. Campbell is likely the best 3-point shooter out of the bunch, but that’s not saying much for a team lacking a true perimeter assassin. Beck is extremely underrated on the wing for Spiece, and he might be their most versatile defender. Spiece shoots 34% from distance, and hold opponents just below

that mark. As a team, they shoot 70% from the line, a respectable number that will need to be matched in pool play. Sterling Brown (4.3 PPG) is a role player off the bench for Spiece, but he provides them another shooter who should see open looks. He’s a more than capable shooter from deep (37.1%), and will certainly find himself with an opportunity to make an impact. Spiece has gotten to this point its team chemistry and all-around balance on both ends, and they are a better team than their record indicates. Campbell gives them a certified floor general, and a player that will improve the overall play of his teammates. Jackson is one of the stars in this league and is surrounded by a talented group. Spiece is in Pool A, which is considered to be the weakest grouping statistically despite including the No. 3 PSA Cardinals. The draw makes Spiece a sleeper favorite to advance and a legitimate contender for the Peach Jam title.

RECORD: 10-6

FINISH: 3RD DIVISION B

CIA BOUNCE

ne of the youngest teams on the circuit, CIA Bounce outplayed expectations during the regular season. Dealt a hit before league play with the loss of ESPN 2017 Top 100 player Christian David (torn ACL), CIA Bounce turned heads across the league by winning games despite having little EYBL experience on their roster and finished the year 9-7. Their top three scorers are underclassmen, making it to

Peach Jam behind a balanced Under the leadership of team offensive attack, strong defense director and head coach Tony McIntyre, Bounce was few heartbreaking losses from completing one of the best regular seasons on the circuit. McIntyre trotted out one of the youngest rotations on the circuit, and with it came inconsistent play. They were the first squad to beat undefeated Howard Pulley, yet two games later, lost to a We All Can Go team that ended the season and a knack for making clutch 3-13. Simi Shittu, a plays at the opportune time.

See roster on page 139

@D1CIRCUIT

SIMI SHITTU 15.6 PPG 61.1 FG% 7.6 RPG sophomore formerly of Montverde Academy in Florida, is the unquestioned star of this team, averaging 15.6 points and 7.6 rebounds per game while shooting 61.1 percent from the floor. An evolving big man, Shittu (ESPN 2018 No. 11) took the reins as the aggressive scorer and rebounder, but he has no problem stepping back to allow teammates to take the spotlight. His value, however, lies in his defense, an ability to run the floor and his superb passing. For a 6-foot-9 16-year old, his vision and passing instincts are off the charts. He has no imminent plans to choose a high school for 201617, but whoever lands him will immediately become one of the top high schools teams in North America. Recently reclassified junior Howard Washington (10.9 PPG, 4.8 APG) leads a talented backcourt and has been terrific directing the offense. He was with the City Rocks the past few seasons and fit in quite well with his new team. Orangeville prep junior Jahvon Blair (7.6 PPG) is more effective than his averages indicate, and sophomore Jaelin Llewellyn

DANILO DJURICIC HOWARD WASHINGTON 10.9 PPG 12.0 PPG 4.8 APG 42.1 3PT% 4.1 RPG 6.2 RPG

(7.7 PPG) came on strong during the third and fourth sessions. Joining Shittu in the frontcourt are Danilo Djuricic and Ignas Brazdeikis, versatile forwards who can really fill up at stat sheet. Djuricic (12.0 PPG, 6.2 RPG) is a 6-foot-7 stretchfour who shot a team-best 42.1 percent from behind the 3-point line but also can defend and rebound with most power forwards. Brazdeikis (12.9 PPG, 6.1 RPG) has a polished offensive game but has been forced to play out of position with this team’s lack of size upfront. He became more comfortable as the season wore on, scoring in double figures in seven of the past eight games - including a 30-point performance in a win over MeanStreets. Bounce holds

opponents less than 30 percent shooting from behind the arc, so success in North Augusta will likely depend on their ability to defend the paint. CIA Bounce is efficient on offense, shooting 48 percent from the floor, and they’ve gotten better from 3-point range with each session. One other note about McIntyre’s bunch: they shoot a league-worst 62.2 percent from the free-throw line. Any improvement at the line is a necessity for Bounce, who would be a top-5 scoring team in the Peach Jam field with even a 10-percent increase. Washington gives them a steady point guard, which is valuable come crunch time. His assist-to-turnover ratio (2.5) is one of the league’s best, and Bounce must limit their turnovers to have a shot at winning. Ultimately, this team is going to go as far as Shittu takes it. He has ‘star’ written all over him, and he will be ultramotivated to make a statement on grassroots basketball’s biggest stage. Bounce has a tall task against a loaded pool, but they’ll definitely be a tough out.

RECORD: 8-8

FINISH: 5TH DIVISION B

NIKE SOUTH BEACH

ike South Beach didn’t have a great EYBL debut last season, but their encore performance this season was eye-opening. First-year head coach Edward ‘Boobie’ Francis, who previously coached E1T1, welcomed Chaundee Brown, Zack Dawson and Paul Atkinson to his squad after the first session in Brooklyn, which is why it’s crucial to gauge this team based on how they finished. The trio made an immediate

impact in Indianapolis and helped South Beach finish the

after retooling the roster. Their Session 4 win over E1T1 speaks volumes to the talent South Beach brings to the table, and they will need to channel that performance to complete in early July. Brown, who starred for Southeast Elite of the adidas Gauntlet before joining South Beach, hasn’t slowed since earning the Breakout Performer in Indianapolis. The 6-foot-6 combo guard is averaging 19.1 EYBL regular season at 8-8, suffering only a few close losses points and 6.1 rebounds per

See roster on page 150

@D1CIRCUIT

CHAUNDEE BROWN 19.1 PPG 6.1 RPG 1.8 APG game while organically becoming the focal point of the team’s offense. The national scene has taken notice, evidenced by ESPN ranking Brown No. 41 in the initial 2017 Top 100. Zack Dawson, another adidas convert, has been terrific running the point for Francis and company. The recent Oklahoma State verbal pledge is averaging 12.2 points and 3.4 assists since joining South Beach, racking up an impressive 2-1 assist-to-turnover ratio. His quickness is off the charts, and he’s proven to be a wise decision-maker, something that Francis has come to rely on. There aren’t many point guards who have had a better showing than Dawson this spring, and his evolution must continue in a pool stocked with highmajor guards. South Beach only averages a little more than 10 assists per game, so there is room for Dawson to improve his distribution abilities. JoJo Walker and KJ Fitzgerald both receive big minutes for South Beach, providing value in different aspects of the game. Walker hit a team-high 26 three-pointers (41.9 percent)

ZACK DAWSON 12.2 PPG 3.2 RPG 3.4 APG

during the regular season while Fitzgerald proved to be a plus on-ball defender. South Beach took a hit in the frontcourt after losing big man Zach Brown in May due to ongoing legal issues, which makes a big impact on their style of play. Chaundee Brown must step up as a rebounder, but he won’t have to shoulder the entire load. Atkinson, a 6-foot-9 athletic big man, has made an impression since joining the circuit from the Florida Vipers of the UAA, immediately becoming one of the league’s top rebounders after session one. He is going to play major minutes, and will have an opportunity to increase his stock on the national level. Atkinson doesn’t just get after it on the boards, though. He has an ever-improving jumper and excels running with his

PAUL ATKINSON 9.7 PPG 6.9 RPG 66.7 FG%

teammates in transition. Abule Abadi and Robert Johnson figure to see minutes in a limited frontcourt. South Beach will be a much different team without Zach Brown, which is unfortunate because he would have make the team a dark horse contender for the Peach Jam title. Without him, they are still capable of making some noise behind the play of Chaundee Brown and Dawson. However, the team’s lack of size might be too much to overcome in a pool full of talented frontcourts. With South Beach, two things are certain: Francis will have his squad firing on all cylinders and they will be highly competitive in every game. South Beach is in the favorable Pool A, where they will square off against the likes of PSA Cardinals, Playaz, and Spiece. In perhaps the most up-in-the-air pool of the four, South Beach has a unique situation where they could potentially move on after sneaking into the field. If past Peach Jams are any indication, Francis will have this squad ready to play.

RECORD: 14-2

FINISH: 1ST DIVISION D

TEAM PENNY

egarded as one of the country’s best grassroots programs since April, Team Penny has only gotten more dominant as the regular season progressed. A year after barely making the Peach Jam field, Team Penny enters the event as the No. 1-ranked team in the D1 Power 10 and clearly have a target on their back in a loaded Pool B that also includes Cali Supreme. Head coach Todd Day left earlier this month to become the head coach

at Philander Smith College, so Penny and the rest of his

See roster on page 158 coaching staff will need to fill the gap. Winners of 12 straight,

Penny received a huge lift when junior star John Petty joined after Session 2. He bolstered a lineup that is efficient on both ends of the floor - Penny shoots 52 percent from the field, more than 10 percentage points higher than their opposition. Three-year EYBL veteran PJ Washington (ESPN 2017 No. 16) has emerged as one of the country’s best allaround forwards, and more importantly, he has been crucial as a leader for this talented

@D1CIRCUIT

PJ WASHINGTON 17.4 PPG 61.9 FG% 10.9 RPG but inexperienced roster. Washington (17.4 PPG, 10.9 RPG) can do it all, from nailing a deep jumper to crashing the boards to soaring over opposing big men with his elite instincts and athleticism. His improved ball handling and versatility has allowed Team Penny to use a variety of different lineups. The Findlay Prep product was a key cog for this squad in last year’s Peach Jam, and after failing to make much of a splash, he should be eager to prove he deserves to be included in conversations about blue-chip prospects in the 2017 class. Petty is Penny’s other star, and he injected this squad with energy and scoring that it really didn’t need but nonetheless resulted in huge dividends. Petty (ESPN 2017 No. 17) was absolutely sensational in Atlanta, and he is showing no signs of slowing down. Joining Petty in the backcourt are talented point guards Alex Lomax and Jarkel Joiner, as well as Khalil Garland and Parker Stewart. Each contributes something essential, whether

JOHN PETTY 14.2 PPG 4.6 RPG 2.6 APG

it is sharing the ball, harassing opposing guards or getting out in transition. Garland (ESPN 2017 No. 61), a 6-foot-6 combo guard, equips Team Penny with a long, rangy perimeter defender who can impact a game without the ball, while Stewart (ESPN 4-Star) is the best perimeter shooter on the squad but must be more efficient than his 30.8 3-point shooting percentage for the team to battle for a title. The frontcourt boasts Isaiah Stokes and Javon Franklin, who both can score and also provide ample support for Washington under the basket. Stokes (ESPN 2017 No. 70) is a highly ranked bruiser who must improve his scoring and rebounding for the team to make a run. He was widely considered as one of the nation’s top offensive linemen

KHALIL GARLAND 12.2 PPG 3.2 RPG 2.1 APG

before choosing basketball, a testament to his athletic ability. Franklin is extremely long and athletic, which allows him to play and defend multiple positions - especially when Penny plays small ball. One of the hottest teams on the circuit, Team Penny as improved since Petty joined the roster, and with all their talent, they will be tough to top. Count on this squad at least advancing out of pool play, if not winning it all. They outrebounded their opponents by nearly eight per game, utilizing non-stop effort and energy from their entire rotation. Washington has played like a man possessed all season long, and one can expect him to step up even more with all eyes watching. In Division B, Team Penny appears to be the favorite as long as they can overcome the twin towers Cali Supreme brings to the table. They can match up with every other team and they may be the deepest team on the entire circuit. Count on this squad at least advancing out of pool play, if not winning it all.

RECORD: 11-5

FINISH: 3RD DIVISION D

STL EAGLES

only to the PSA Cardinals anked No. 6 in the D1 Power 10 to close out the as the most efficient squad season, the St. Louis Eagles come into Peach Jam playing some of the best basketball on the circuit. EYBL veteran Jordan Goodwin has been exceptional this season, turning himself into one of the most physical guards in the country. They won’t blow you away statistically, but this defensive-minded squad will wear you down for 32 minutes. They give up just under 60 defensively on the circuit. points per contest, second

See roster on page 155

Every team at Peach Jam has at least one go-to offensive player, a guy who must have the ball in his hands in the crucial moments and can carry a squad to victory. For the STL Eagles, it’s Goodwin, but this combo guard has shown he can do so much more. A year after being vital cog to the Jayson Tatum show, Goodwin (ESPN 2017 No. 53) has done everything for the Eagles, including guarding much bigger and quicker players.

@D1CIRCUIT

JORDAN GOODWIN DARIUS GARLAND 16.4 PPG 13.9 PPG 9.6 RPG 40.0 3PT% 3.7 APG 2.5 APG Also a star on the football field, Goodwin channels that aggressive nature while on the basketball court. Listed as a guard by ESPN, the chameleonic Goodwin (16.4 PPG, 9.6 RPG) can easily become an elite scorer, ferocious rebounder or lockdown defender, yet his adaptability is just one reason this squad may be a favorite for a repeat trip to the Peach Jam championship. Joining Goodwin in the backcourt is Darius Garland (13.9 PPG), who has developed into a second option. Garland (ESPN 2018 No. 17) shoots nearly 40 percent from the 3-point line, which helps spread the floor for the Eagles’ post players. He also becomes the point guard when Goodwin is playing off the ball, and he has excelled in a distribution role. Reggie Crawford, also a star wide receiver on the gridiron, can provide instant offense with his aggressive attitude, although he’s been inconsistent with his shot. The Eagles don’t possess elite size up front,

but they make up for it with depth. Highly regarded recruit Tim Finke is a wing who can run the floor and excels as a small forward. An adept midrange shooter, Finke (ESPN 2018 No. 37) can get triggerhappy from the perimeter and would average close to 7.0 rebounds per game if Goodwin wasn’t as exceptional on the boards. Big man Silas Adheke (6.3 RPG) provides the Eagles with versatility. Adheke (ESPN 3-Star) is an excellent interior defender, can hit from the outside and also run the floor, which suits the Eagles’ style of play. The Eagles will receive a huge frontcourt boost come Peach Jam. The boost will come in the form of 6-foot-10, 215 pound center Jeremiah Tilmon. A recent transfer from

SILAS ADHEKE 7.2 PPG 47.0 FG% 6.3 RPG

East Saint Louis (MO) to La Lumiere (IN), Tilmon (ESPN 2017 No. 29) missed the entire EYBL regular season due to a shoulder injury. In 21 games in 2015, Tilmon averaged 7.8 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.2 blocks while shooting 68 percent from the field. He he gives the Eagles the same exact production, it would be a huge lift to their chances of advancing past pool play. Tilmon is a difference-maker, and his presence in the Eagles lineup will pay dividends against opposing frontcourts in Pool B. Although they don’t have the overall depth as last year’s squad, the Eagles do have a star who has proven the ability to carry a team and boasts Peach Jam experience. In addition, they have several players who have underperformed throughout the season but seem primed for breakout in July. The Eagles are in the stacked Division B for pool play, where Team Penny and Cali Supreme looming large, and must have everyone contribute to repeat last year’s performance.

RECORD: 10-6

FINISH: 3RD DIVISION A

CAL SUPREME

f you’re reading this, and you’re a big man playing in Peach Jam, now would be a good time to start taking notes and make plans to get in the gym immediately. DeAndre Ayton (ESPN 2017 No. 1) and Brandon McCoy (ESPN 2017 No. 6) form arguably the best frontline in EYBL history, and the pair have backed up every bit of the hype with their play during the regular season. A lack of practice has created some inconsistency on the floor offensively and less-than-desired

team chemistry, but this squad has bounced back after a slow

See roster on page 138

start in Brooklyn and improved with every session. At times, the

Supreme displayed dominance on both ends of the floor and depth at every position, giving them the look of a team that could defeat several college squads. If they use the break after the regular season wisely, there is no reason why they can’t dominate pool play. Childhood friends Ayton (19.5 PPG, 11.5 RPG) and McCoy (17.7 PPG, 9.2 RPG) have worked extremely well alongside each other, putting up combined numbers never seen in the EYBL.

24 www.D1CIRCUIT.

DEANDRE AYTON 19.5 PPG 11.5 RPG 3.6 APG Ayton, the top-ranked prospect in 2017 according to ESPN, has dominated the circuit from his opening tip, and his combination of size, skill and athleticism is truly special and has helped him stand out on defense while living up to his welldocumented offensive skills. McCoy’s dominance doesn’t come as a surprise either, as his team-first mentality and leadership shined through 16 games. McCoy has Peach Jam experience from last year, and with the improvement he’s shown at both ends, he’s primed to produce at the highest level. Ayton and McCoy form by far the most formidable frontcourt duo on the circuit, and they have more than enough surrounding them to help the Supreme compete for a title. Their pool play matchups will be especially exciting, as the duo is set to face off against elite big men Marvin Bagley III (Phoenix Phamily), PJ Washington (Team Penny) and Mitchell Robinson (Nike Pro Skills).

BRANDON MCCOY ETHAN THOMPSON 10.6PPG 17.7 PPG 3.2 RPG 9.2 RPG 2.8 APG 1.0 APG

Jordan Schakel (ESPN 4-Star) start in the backcourt, and the Bishop Montgomery (California) teammates have combined for 45 three-pointers through 16 games. Underclassmen Brandon Williams (ESPN 2018 No. 31) and Cassius Stanley (ESPN 2019 No. 6) are both valuable contributors, with Stanley being one of the most impressive athletes in the entire country - he will likely catch a body in North Augusta. With their entire lineup being nationally ranked, it would be silly not to consider Cal Supreme a prime contender. Head coach Gary Franklin said his squad’s best asset is their unselfishness, and the results tend the agree. They are statistically the best passing team in the EYBL (16.1 APG), so it’s clear they don’t have problems sharing the ball. On paper, this team is scary, while

on the screen, they are mustsee TV.

Juniors Ethan Thompson (ESPN 2017 No. 47) and

Depth is the only issue that sticks out for Cal Supreme. While they have the two of the best big men in the country, the team and Franklin better pray no one gets in foul trouble. They have played effectively without fouling through 16 games, and figure to benefit from an officiating crew that tends to swallow their whistles during the fiveday tournament. One thing to consider: Cal Supreme is the best free-throw shooting team on the circuit at 76.9 percent. That type of success could prove handy, if they can sustain it, as Ayton (82.1 FT) and McCoy (65.7 FT) will likely have plenty of opportunities at the freethrow line. They played one of the most difficult schedules on the circuit, and the break between session four and Peach Jam should have them well-rested. This squad is a certified contender for the Peach Jam title, and it will be extremely entertaining to watch them compete.

RECORD: 9-7

FINISH: 4TH DIVISION A

CITY ROCKS

he City Rocks dropped four of their five games in Atlanta, but the struggles did not diminish the team’s solid season, which exceeded expectations thanks to the play of a talented quartet. Anthony Gaines, Hameir Wright, Andrew Platek and Nahziah Carter all average double figures in scoring for this balanced squad, which boasts a tight rotation and good production from its top six players. However, the depth that was a strength of

last year’s Peach Jam qualifier does not seem to be there this

See roster on page 136 year, yet head coach Ralph Tucker has gotten the most out

of a 7-8 man rotation as several players have stepped up. The Rocks may not have the most star power of any team in North Augusta, but they have the talent, coaching and toughness to beat anyone in the field. After bursting onto the national scene with a monster first weekend, Gaines garners the spotlight. The 6-foot-8 junior combo guard averaged 15.7 points and 9.0 rebounds per game in the regular season, helping the ESPN 3-Star recruit

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ANTHONY GAINES 15.7 PPG 57.2 FG% 9.0 RPG raise his stock and capture allEYBL honors in each of the first three sessions as the Rocks racked up the victories. Gaines is joined by EYBL veteran and high-major prospect Platek, a 6-foot-4 sharpshooter who does a bit of everything for the team. While his regularseason averages of 12.7 points per game and 44.8 percent shooting from behind the 3-point arc were lower than last year, Platek’s impact goes beyond his stats. He prides himself on his defense and will be counted on to lock down several talented guards in the pool. Platek is also the team’s leader and must call on last year’s Peach Jam experience to guide Rocks to bracket play this year. Point guard Kristers Zoriks is talented but must improve on his modest averages (4.7 PPG, 3.1 APG). Keep an eye on Keith McGee, an uberathletic combo guard from Greece Arcadia in Rochester, New York. McGee (8.5 PPG) scored in double figures in seven of the last eight games and averaged 14.0 points, 2.4

HAMEIR WRIGHT 12.4 PPG 5.2 RPG 1.2 BPG

rebounds and 2.4 assists in the final five-game session. He can jump out of the gym, which is highly noticeable in their pregame layup lines, and will be relied upon to spark the Rocks. Wright is another player to watch. The forward??? improved as the season wore on, and his ability to defend three positions is invaluable. Wright (12.4 PPG, 5.2 RPG) also had a strong showing at last year’s U16 Peach Jam must bring the same mentality this year. Carter (10.7 PPG, 3.9 RPG) brings a tough, physical style to the floor and allows City Rocks to play four wings most of the time. The Bishop Kearney (New York) product got more comfortable with each session and closed the regular season with back-to-

ANDREW PLATEK 12.7 PPG 44.8 3PT% 4.2 RPG

back 20-point games. Dom Welch, a 6-foot-6 wing from Cheektowaga in Buffalo, New York, also played well down the stretch. He shoots 40 percent from behind the 3-point line, giving the Rocks another lengthy player who can stretch the floor. City Rocks’ rotation contains a nice blend of production, but lacks size. While finishing as one of the top teams on the circuit, they face a challenge in a loaded Pool E and will rely on Gaines and Wright lead them out of pool play, something the team failed to do last year. They weren’t given any favors with their pool draw, but they’ve already proven to be capable of beating a pool play foe, evidenced by their seasonopening win over star-studded Cal Supreme. The fate of the City Rocks will be determined in the firest two days, as their first three pool play games are against No. 10, No. 6 and No. 1 teams in the D1 Power 10.

RECORD: 8-8

ollowing a slow start, Pro Skills came into their own in Hampton and haven’t looked back since, including a win over No. 2 Howard Pulley. They have great frontcourt size and depth, which is not something most teams in the field possess. Mitchell Robinson, hailing from Chalmette, Louisiana, is a legitimate game changer and his presence makes this team a threat to win nearly every game. The team also has

FINISH: 4TH DIVISION B

PRO SKILLS a supporting cast of skilled guards and dominant posts

See roster on page 149 who can score. However, Pro Skills lacks solid perimeter

shooting and consistency, which could spell disaster in a loaded pool. Their second season ended with an 8-8 record, but they likely would have been in better shape if their entire roster was in tact for the whole season. Arguably the top defensive big man in the country, Robinson (ESPN 2017 No. 15) has dominated the interior since the first weekend of the season. The 7-footer has also quietly become a solid

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MITCHELL ROBINSON CURTIS HOLLIS 15.5 PPG 16.0 PPG 4.1 BPG 4.8 RPG 1.6 RPG 1.8 APG offensive post player (15.5 PPG, 11.6 RPG), but having a defensive stopper who can change games is what will drive Pro Skills out of pool play. He recently committed to Rick Stansbury and Western Kentucky, the first ranked player to commit to a midmajor program in the 2017 class. Marco Anthony joins Robinson in the frontcourt and don’t be surprised to see him blow up in North Augusta. Despite playing out of position as a power forward, Anthony (11.1 PPG, 5.3 RPG) has become a factor in the offense since the first session and this capable small forward has an ever-improving jumper. Lead guard Curtis Hollis (16.0 PPG, 4.8 RPG) has become one of the better scorers on the circuit over the last month, and his ability to get into the lane complements Robinson’s game. Hollis, who missed the first EYBL session after reclassifying to the 2017 class, struggles shooting from the perimeter, yet plays within his skills and will not take a bad shot from behind the

arc, which only benefits the team. Jarrett Culver also had issues with his shooting this year, but if he increases his percentages across the board and puts more emphasis on his playmaking - areas the team has missed - Pro Skills can make a legitimate run at the championship. Culver (ESPN 2017 No. 87) made an instant impact in Pro Skills rotation, and his continued production will be needed in North Augusta. Big man Royce Hamm, who converted to Pro Skills from Houston Hoops after the second session, has made a huge impact starring alongside Robinson. Hamm (10.9 PPG, 6.1 RPG) has the ability to impact a game without having a play run for him, utilizing a constant motor and solid footwork in

MARCO ANTHONY 11.1 PPG 46.9 3PT% 1.5 APG

the lane. While has has shown the ability to step out and be effective on the perimeter, head coach Jeff Webster would be best off having Hamm dwell in the paint during pool play. Dominant big men are a rare commodity in grassroots basketball, and Robinson’s presence gives Pro Skills an advantage. To win it all, this team must avoid the inconsistency on offense it has shown at times. Basically, Pro Skills is going to win games on the interior. They outrebound their opponents by nearly eight per game, and nearly double their opposition’s blocks output. On top of that, they are in the top five in the league in points allowed in the paint. If an increased shooting percentage is added to their stellar rebounding and defense, Pro Skills could be one of the biggest surprises in pool play. They have the talent to compete with anyone in the field, and if Robinson asserts his dominance against a bevy of talented frontcourts in Pool B, Pro Skills could find themselves playing on Saturday.

RECORD: 7-9

FINISH: WILD CARD DIVISION C

PHOENIX PHAMILY

n their inaugural year on the EYBL circuit, Phoenix Phamily managed to sneak into the Peach Jam field despite an up-and-down regular season, finishing 7-9. They suffered two extremely questionable defeats during the season, and with a few bounces going a different way, the Phamily would have clinched a Peach Jam bid with more ease. The team has four legitimate scorers, but there is a major drop-off in production throughout the

rest of the roster. Despite this, the Phamily excels at putting

See roster on page 151 the ball in the basket, and they are especially effective in

transition..An offensive-minded team, this squad is led by its top four but there is a major fall off after that. One thing the Phamily excels at is putting the ball in the basket, especially in transition, but their lack of EYBL and Peach Jam experience could make for a tough go in pool play. Marvin Bagley III (20.9 PPG, 10.6 RPG) was arguably the most hyped player coming into the season, and he eventually lived up to the

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MARVIN BAGLEY III 20.9 PPG 10.6 RPG 1.6 BPG billing. ESPN’s top prospect in 2018, Bagley (ESPN 2018 No. 1) experienced some growing pains but now has found his groove and is coming off his best session statistically. Whether it’s posting up, getting out in transition or draining contested deep balls with ease, the big man is a matchup nightmare for opposing coaches because he can do so many things well offensively. Simply put, he is one of the most talented basketball prospects in the world, and he will have a spotlight on him in early July. He is joined in the frontcourt by Sierra Canyon (California) star Cody Riley, who has also improved immensely in the last few months. Riley (ESPN 2017 No. 40) is more of an interior player and a better defender than Bagley, but he can still run the floor well and could be a great second option if he plays with more aggressiveness from the outset. Riley (13.7 PPG, 7.3 RPG) is a physical specimen, and he’s a tone-setter. If he is clicking on all cylinders, the Phamily is a completely different squad.

CODY RILEY 13.7 PPG 7.3 RPG 1.2 APG

In the backcourt, Remy Martin (12.3 PPG, 4.4 APG) and Adam Seiko (10.6 PPG) can compete with any guards in the country. Martin (ESPN 3-Star) can shoot well, but his bread and butter is driving to the hoop and has been adept at finishing through traffic. Martin, an Arizona State pledge, is not selfish and has can hit his talented teammates for an open look with a crisp pass. Seiko, committed to San Diego State, plays sound defense and normally guards the opponent’s best scorer, and he is also this team’s most consistent perimeter threat. The Phamily would be in great shape if Seiko (ESPN 2-Star) catches fire, and he should receive plenty of open looks alongside Bagley and Riley. They turn the ball over a bit too often, a product of their run-

REMY MARTIN 12.3 PPG 4.1 RPG 4.4 APG

and-gun style. Marcus Bagley, the younger brother of Marvin, figures to see minutes as an extra perimeter shooter. The younger Bagley already holds three division one offers, an accomplishment held by very few eighth-graders. Although the Phamily sports a bona fide superstar - and tone of the top players in the country - in Bagley, the team’s lack of depth will make it difficult to compete with the bigger, deeper teams in the field. The Phamily also finds themselves at the bottom of an unbelievably loaded Pool B and will need to score a few upsets to advance to bracket play. Even at full health and with Bagley playing at his absolute best, the Phamily will need a complete team effort if they wish to advance beyond the first few days of Peach Jam. Win or lose, Bagley and the Phamily will go head-to-head with the likes of PJ Washington, Mitchell Robinson, DeAndre Ayton and Brandon McCoy, so it’s a certainty we will be entertained.

16E POOLS

POOL A

POOL B

All Ohio Red

Team CP3

Southern Stampede

Team Takeover

UPlay Canada

PSA Cardinals

St. Louis Eagles

Georgia Stars

POOL C

POOL D

NJ Playaz

Team Melo

E1T1 United

Team Penny

Expressions Elite

King James

Meanstreets

NY Rens

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BREAK GAME FILM DOWN LIKE THE PROS Proud partner D1 Circuit and NIKE EYBL

K ROSSOV ER.COM / BA SK ETBA LL

@K ROSSOV R

By: Alec Kinsky

he 2015 Nike EYBL regular season had just concluded for Howard Pulley, yet Panthers rising star Gary Trent Jr. felt unsatisfied. Trent had just become the first underclassman to lead the league in scoring, finishing the regular season averaging 22.1 points per game, but his focus was on a different accomplishment. 6-foot-5 sophomore sat on the bench for a few moments. He collected his thoughts, took a deep breath and asked Pulley head coach Antwan Harris a question, notably filled with disappointment and frustration. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What do I have to do to get there next year?â&#x20AC;? Trent said.

‘There’ is Peach Jam, the pinnacle of grassroots basketball. A tournament open to only the top 24 teams on the NIKE circuit. The problem? Pulley finished the regular season seventh in their division standings with a 7-10 record, missing the cut by two games. For Trent, the joy of winning the scoring title was dampened by the fact that the Panthers missed qualifying for Peach Jam for the first time since the event started 21 years ago. A dejected Trent used the feeling as fuel. “It motivated me in ways I can’t describe,” Trent said. “Whenever my teammates were talking about Peach Jam, whenever you hear people talking about Peach Jam, it

makes you want to go. It killed me.” Fast forward eight months, and one thing was abundantly clear: the motivation paid off as Trent transformed his game, hoping to put Pulley back into elite team status. This Panthers group entered the regular season with high expectations. Sporting an eight-man rotation, Pulley needed Trent’s scoring but not as much as his leadership. They needed someone to do whatever it took to keep the team from losing. Trent accepted the role. No longer just a scorer, Trent was effective in all aspects of the game and helped the Panthers go undefeated through

the first three sessions and finish the regular season with a 14-2 record. The supporting cast was improved from last year, but the biggest difference was Trent’s evolution, said Panthers director Rene Pulley. “I’ll tell you, Gary has really transformed himself,” Pulley said. “He was willing to score less in order to give to the team.

I’m really proud of him. The transformation he’s made into being a leader of this team says a lot. “You get a lot of guys who are good,” Pulley added. “But you don’t get many guys to sacrifice.” What Trent gave up was a shot at the scoring title, and instead focused on getting his teammates involved. “I needed (Gary) to play team basketball,” Harris said. “That’s exactly what he did.

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More than anything, the kid has proven over the past two years (in the EYBL) that he’s a fierce competitor.” The result was not only made the Panthers better, but Trent improved. He ended the 16-game regular season at 22.1 points per contest, one percentage point higher than last year’s league-leading average. Statistically, Trent’s EYBL career got off to a good start, but that doesn’t mean he was comfortable from the onset. While he dominated in games against competition from his home state of Minnesota, the EYBL was a whole different ball game. “I didn’t know what I was getting myself into,” Trent said of the NIKE circuit. “It really helped me having this year under my belt, just to help the program do better. I would say the biggest difference was my mindset. The second year, I knew what it would take, I knew how good my opponents are.” Pulley agreed. “He just took a different mindset this year,” Pulley said. “His whole focus was to build on what he personally accomplished last year, but he wanted it for the team. He was willing to sacrifice being the leading scorer in the EYBL to being the best team in the EYBL.” Trent and company didn’t take anyone lightly this year, winning in a variety of different fashions. They are a battle-tested group, one Pulley knows is in

good hands with Trent as its leader, “He questions me sometimes, but he sees the benefit of being part of an incredible program,” Pulley said. “More and more, week by week, he made the sacrifices to become a better player. Mentally, you’ve been able to see the difference. How far he’s grow is exceptional.” His growth is the result of countless hours of hard work under the guidance of Pulley,

“I am proud to have him part of my family, forever.” Harris and Trent’s father Gary, a 10-year NBA veteran. Trent had little trouble explaining their importance. “I love (Harris) to death,” Trent said. “He’s almost like a brother to my dad, always guiding me on and of the court. He just does a lot of little thing behind the scenes, and I love him to death for that. I’ll love him for life. “(Rene) is like a grandfather to me,” he added.

“That’s what he calls me, grandson, and that’s how I view him. He has a lot of wisdom, he just helps me grow as a person. I’m so happy that he came into my life.” Trent’s father has made the biggest impact, both on and off the court. “Every move I do, every free throw, every shot, everything I got, I got from him,” Trent said. Ranked ninth in ESPN’s 2017 class, Trent has a special future ahead of him and knows his father will continue to be there as he takes the next step. “I started at the age of 5, and it’s been good ever since,” Trent said. “Me and him will continue to work hard and strive to get better every day.” Trent’s progression has been continuous. He spent June in Spain, competing with the USA Men’s U17 team. When he returns, it’s time for Peach Jam, and Trent remains unsatisfied. “Making it to Peach Jam isn’t the final goal,” Trent said. “We have to continue to win and survive and bring it up to a whole different level if we want to be successful down there.” As far as Pulley is concerned, Trent is already a success. The Panthers’ Peach Jam performances won’t deter that notion, as it’s clear to Pulley that his star has already made his mark on his historic program. “I am proud to have him part of my family,” Pulley said. “Forever.”

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Quade Green: 14.1 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 10.5 APG, 2.9 SPG One of the most prolific assist men in NIKE EYBL history, Green had a season to behold in 2016 and he has the opportunity to add to that even more in the upcoming Peach Jam. Green was certainly on the radar as a national prospect coming into the season, but his legendary assist numbers and overall dominance have turned him into a blue-chipper and arguably the best floor general in the nation. Gary Trent Jr: 22.2 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.3 SPG, 85.3 FT% Last season, Trent Jr. took home the EYBL scoring title, but for Howard Pulley 2015 was rather forgettable. 2016 was much more successful for his squad, as they were undefeated for much of the season and now look to win Peach Jam as one of the few true contenders. In addition to his added leadership skills, Trent Jr. contributed in many ways that included crashing the boards and playing stellar defense. He is your 2016 NIKE EYBL regular season Most Valuable Player. Trae Young: 21.3 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 7.1 APG Young was one of the best players on the circuit from the opening tip of the first weekend, and after high expectations preceded him in 2016 after his star-making season last year, he somehow managed to exceed even the loftiest of those. Young’s leadership skills were perhaps the most impressive aspect of his 2016 campaign, as he flawlessly incorporated several youngsters into the MOKAN lineup and always did a great job of stepping up when his team needed him most, namely when his friend and teammate Michael Porter, Jr. was out. Michael Porter Jr: 22.8 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 2.0 APG Although he missed a game late in the season, that doesn’t take away from just how dominant the MOKAN wing was all year long. A player with something to prove in his class, Porter Jr. did not disappoint, showing off several new offensive skills, increased aggressiveness and a dedication to rebounding rarely seen from a player his age and caliber. Porter Jr. will likely take MOKAN at the very least out of pool play, and he is the man that any team would be glad to have with the ball in his hands at the end of a game. DeAndre Ayton: 19.5 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.7 BPG Entering his first and only EYBL campaign with considerable hype, Ayton absolutely showed out on his way to one of the better statistical years from a big man in recent memory. Ayton’s rare combination of size, athleticism and guard skills kept defenses hopelessly guessing all year long, and one could argue that teammate Brandon McCoy benefitted most from playing alongside his childhood friend. Ayton’s jumper has continued to progress and as he continues to work on his ballhandling he will one day be a surefire star at the next level. 39

Collin Sexton: 31.7 PPG, 45.7 FG%, 85.4 FT%, 5.6 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 1.1 APG A relative unknown coming into the year, Sexton exploded onto the national scene by averaging over 30 points per game in New York, and the star combo guard never looked back on his way to an historic season. Impossibly, Sexton was just getting warmed up with his stellar first weekend of 2016, as he improved his shooting efficiency, rebounding, and defense on his way to a phenomenal campaign. After finishing the final regular season session with a handful of 30-point outbursts to add to his record-breaking point total, fans around the nation are now disappointed they won’t be able to see more of Sexton’s magic in North Augusta. Chris Lykes: 19.9 PPG, 2.8 APG, 2.3 RPG While he may be the smallest player on the floor a majority of the time, there may not be any one player in the country that means more to his squad than the explosive Lykes means to Team Takeover. Unbelievably quick, the diminutive lead guard has been too much for nearly every defense on the circuit to handle, and in games where he catches fire from deep he is practically unstoppable. Though one knock on him could be that many point guards can post him up, the complete offensive arsenal that Lykes brings to the table more than makes up for any shortcomings he has on the other side of the ball. PJ Washington: 17.4 PPG, 61.9 FG%, 10.9 RPG A three-year EYBL vet, Washington saved his best for last while leading his Team Penny squad to one of the best regular seasons of any grassroots team in recent memory. A point-forward who loves to get his teammates involved before looking for his own offense, Washington brings a unique skillset to the table that is rare in a player of his age and position. While he is terrific with the ball in his hands, showing off an improved jumper in 2016, his biggest asset is likely the tenacity he brings to hitting the glass. Pound-for-pound, Washington may be the best rebounder in the country. Mitchell Robinson: 15.5 PPG, 11.6 RPG, 4.1 BPG Dominant big men have been highly coveted in grassroots basketball since its inception, and the seven-foot Robinson has absolutely been a difference maker and savior of sorts for Nike Pro Skills. Arguably the best defensive player in the nation, and at least in his class, Robinson changes a team’s entire offensive approach when he is looming near the rim. Add in the fact that he is a first-rate rebounder and you have yourself a bona fide star big man. The really scary part? Robinson is just beginning to come into his own as an offensive threat and has been putting up great numbers on raw talent alone. Once he adds some moves and touch to his game, there isn’t a program at the next level that wouldn’t give an arm and a leg to get this beast. Robinson gave his verbal commitment to Rick Stansbury and Western Kentucky in late June. Wendell Carter Jr. (13 games): 16.8 PPG, 70.9 FG%, 10.2 RPG, 2.5 BPG Starring for the Georgia Stars in 2015 on his way to a Peach Jam MVP as his squad took the crown, Carter still felt he had a lot to prove with a brand new squad this season. Exceeding even the loftiest of expectations, Carter was somehow even better this season as the motor that makes Team CP3 go. His percentage from the floor would be impressive for any big man; throw in the fact that he accomplished this while shooting deep jumpers and it’s downright ridiculous. Few players can deflect a shot, run the floor, and finish in a variety of ways as well as Carter, and you could argue nobody in the country does it better.

Brian Bowen | Meanstreets 18.9 PPG, 75.5 FT%, 7.4 RPG After starring on the Adidas circuit for much of his AAU career, Bowen was far from a household name coming into the season in his first with MeanStreets. However, once the first weekend came to a close in NYC, it was clear that the guard-forward hybrid was a force to be reckoned with. Bowen showcased an all-around game that has helped him skyrocket up the rankings, picking up where he left off at Dick’s Nationals with La Lumiere (IN) and leading a resurgence in the MeanStreets program. On a squad with many talented individuals, Bowen is the unquestioned star and the one that ties it all together. Jordan Goodwin | St. Louis Eagles 16.4 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 3.7 APG Goodwin was a key supporting player on last season’s STL Eagles team that advanced all the way to the Peach Jam championship, and all eyes were on him to take the reigns from Duke-bound Jayson Tatum as the leader on this team. In some ways, Goodwin has done even more with less than the future Blue Devil, playing almost every position on the floor and priding himself in making clutch plays when his team needed him most. In an age where position specialization is placed on a pedestal early in the career of a young ball player, it’s refreshing to watch a player like Goodwin who isn’t defined by a position but can flat-out ball. Kevin Knox | E1T1 United 19.6 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 1.5 APG Knox is as fluid an athlete as they come and watching him play the game is true entertainment, as the wing can lull a defense to sleep and soar up for a vicious dunk moments later. Leading an E1T1 team that exceeded expectations as one of the top teams in the league, Knox was consistently dominant every step of the way and showcasing the guard skills he has worked on for the last year. Knox has a rare combination of skills that allow him to play the two through four on a regular basis, and he is only beginning to scratch the surface of his immense potential. Brandon McCoy | California Supreme 17.7 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 1.0 APG, 1.2 BPG Playing alongside the unanimous top prospect in 2017 can’t be an easy task; managing to stand out and raise his own stock seems next to impossible. And yet, that is exactly what the stud big man McCoy has done in 2016, helping make the game even easier for Ayton just as much as he has been aided by the much-hyped star. McCoy has a much more developed offensive game than he did this winter, especially in the post, and that has allowed him to take over games when his childhood friend Ayton has been struggling or simply double-teamed. Already the 6th-ranked prospect by ESPN, McCoy is just getting started and appears primed for a massive summer in which he intends to show the nation who he is. Marvin Bagley III | Phoenix Phamily 20.9 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 1.6 BPG After a high school season that saw Bagley barely see the floor and featured as much drama as a CW afterschool special, perhaps no player in the country was as much in the spotlight as the Phoenix Phamily big man. With the lost season far behind him, all Bagley did was dominate the competition after an up-and-down first weekend with an array of post moves, long range bombs, and impressive handles. To see just how good this young man was this year, look no further than the fact that he led a first-time program into the Peach Jam field without another established star on the roster. The versatile Bagley has played like a shooting guard at times this season, which leaves the question: just how good can he become? Luckily for fans of the game, there is a full 43 year to find out the answer.

ESPN RANKINGS Rank:

Player:

EYBL Team:

Rank:

DeAndre Ayton

California Supreme

Wendell Carter

2017 Player:

EYBL Team:

Rank:

Player:

EYBL Team:

Rayshaun Hammonds

Alabama Challenge

Hameir Wright

Albany City Rocks

Team CP3

Tremont Waters

Expressions Elite

Zack Dawson

Nike South Beach

Mo Bamba

PSA Cardinals

Nickeil Alexander-Walker

Wings Elite

Xavier Tillman

Spiece Indy Heat

Michael Porter Jr.

MOKAN Elite

Jordan Tucker

NY RENS

Isaiah Livers

MeanStreets

Brandon McCoy

California Supreme

DJ Harvey Jr.

Team Takeover

Isaiah Stokes

Team Penny

Kevin Knox

E1T1 United

Ikechukwu Obiagu

Georgia Stars

Alonzo Verge Jr.

MeanStreets

Nick Richards

Expressions Elite

Daejon Davis

Seattle Rotary Style

Nojel Eastern

MeanStreets

Gary Trent Jr.

Howard Pulley

Cody Riley

Phoenix Phamily

Justin Smith

Mac Irvin Fire

Brian Bowen

MeanStreets

Chaundee Brown

Nike South Beach

Devontae Shuler

Team CP3

Hamidou Diallo

NY RENS

Brandon Randolph

PSA Cardinals

Deng Gak

PSA Cardinals

Billy Preston

Houston Hoops

Jaylen Nowell

Seattle Rotary Style

O'Shae Brissett

Las Vegas Prospects

Lonnie Walker

Team Final

Chris Lykes

Team Takeover

Christian David

CIA Bounce

Mitchell Robinson

Pro Skills

Ethan Thompson

California Supreme

Royce Hamm

Pro Skills

PJ Washington

Team Penny

Markell Johnson

King James

Kaleb Wesson

All Ohio Red

John Petty

Team Penny

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Wings Elite

Kyle Young

King James

Jarred Vanderbilt

Houston Hoops

Davion Mitchell

Georgia Stars

Jarrett Culver

Pro Skills

Trae Young

MOKAN Elite

Daniel Gafford

Wings Elite

Jay Estime

Southern Stampede

Quade Green

PSA Cardinals

Jordan Goodwin

St. Louis Eagles

Victor Bailey Jr.

RM5 Elite

Charles O'Bannon Jr.

Las Vegas Prospects

Jordan Poole

Mac Irvin Fire

Galen Alexander

RM5 Elite

Jaren Jackson Jr.

Spiece Indy Heat

DeAundre Ballard

Georgia Stars

Alfred Hollins

Oakland Soldiers

Collin Sexton

Southern Stampede

Chuma Okeke

Georgia Stars

Aaron Thompson

Team Takeover

Matt Coleman

Boo Williams

Jermaine Samuels

Expressions Elite

Alex Barcello

Oakland Soldiers

Troy Brown Jr.

Las Vegas Prospects

Kimani Lawrence

Expressions Elite

100

Lavar Batts Jr.

Team CP3

Jeremiah Tilmon

St. Louis Eagles

Khalil Garland

Team Penny

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By: Alec Kinsky

wo days after the Fourth of July, Paul Jamaine Washington Jr. will participate in his third 17U Peach Jam for Team Penny, a rare feat worthy of celebration. A product of Frisco, Texas, this 6-foot-8 forward has helped light up North Augusta, South Carolina, before, contributing on a loaded runner-up squad two years ago and nearly averaging a doubledouble in pool play last July. If his 2016 regular season is any indication, Washington better known as PJ - has saved his best for last and is primed to put on a fireworks display in his final appearance at Peach Jam. Gifted with size, athleticism and an unparalleled work ethic, Washington has developed into a do-it-all player during his threeyear EYBL career. He can score, rebound, facilitate and defend three positions, making him one of the most versatile players in a

league stocked with elite talent. Channeling his previous EYBL experience, Washington led Team Penny to a 14-2 EYBL regular-season record and the No. 1 ranking in the D1 Power 10 heading into the event. Washington’s route to star status has followed a unique arc. His talents allowed him to transfer to prep powerhouse Findlay Prep in Henderson, Nevada prior to his sophomore season - a move that has paid huge dividends for the rising senior. While several prep players, many who were future NBA lottery picks, have experienced a similar evolution during their progression through the circuit have transferred to a renowned prep school, not many have had the opportunity to develop their game during the spring and summer under the guidance of an NBA legend. And certainly not for three consecutive seasons.

Coached by four-time NBA All-Star Penny Hardaway, Washington has had the opportunity to pick the brain of a basketball legend to learn about everything basketball,both on and off the court. “It’s amazing because they have every resource for you,” Washington said, explaining his time with the Penny organization. “They know the ins and outs of basketball, and they’re just great mentors.” When asked specifically about what makes Hardaway different, Washington offered an honest assessment - comparing his coach’s strategic brilliance to one of the all-time greats. “Running plays,” he said. “He goes through every little thing about plays, and he makes sure everything is perfect. He’s really like (San Antonio Spurs) coach (Gregg) Popovich, the plays he draws are just perfect.”

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Washington has run those plays for 49 EYBL contests and honed his game along the way. This season he has focused on leadership……. One aspect of focus during the 2016 season? Leadership. “I had to step up and be a leader,” Washington said. “Last year’s team, I didn’t have to do that, but this year I had to be a leader in order to take the team to a new level.” One key to leadership is maturity, an aspect of Washington’s makeup that was escalated by his transfer to Findlay Prep. He was forced to relocate from his comfortable surroundings, leaving behind his parents in Dallas. “When I first went to Findlay, it made me grow up quickly,” Washington said. “It was hard, but if it wasn’t for my parents, I wouldn’t be here right now. It taught me to be a man, it’s hard to imagine myself anywhere else.” Washington begins his senior season in September, but

first, he has business to take care of with his Team Penny squad at Peach Jam. Washington is surrounded by talented peers, including John Petty, a 6-foot-6 swingman who joined Penny after Session 2. Washington was fully onboard with the addition. “John Petty is amazing,” Washington said. “If we didn’t have (Petty), we wouldn’t be 14-2 right now. He makes the game so easy for me, makes most every shot, plays defense and wants to win.” Peach Jam experience can’t be taught, and Washington and the Penny coaching staff have gained plenty in three seasons - which is important come early July. “The experience helps a ton, because we know exactly what to expect,” Washington said of his coaching staff. “It’s going to be hard, and we may be a bit nervous like everyone, but we’re going to come out and make some noise.” Hardaway’s group is talented enough to advance out of pool

play, and the coach will lean on Washington to carry the load. It’s a position Washington’s been mentored and groomed for and he has no problem with motivation. “Proving everybody wrong,” Washington said when asked what drives him. “I just hate losing.” Without the guidance of Hardaway, Washington would have likely landed in a similar position based on his talent. Washington is responsible for his drive, work ethic and motivation - all tools that can’t be taught. He doesn’t want anything handed to him and is willing to outwork anyone. However, when a supertalented prospect can tap into a resource like Hardaway, something special happens. Knowledge is gained quickly, trust is established and maturity develops. The combination of those factors will almost always equal success. In this case, the product is PJ Washington.

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ESPN RANKINGS 2018

Rank:

Player:

EYBL Team:

Rank:

Player:

EYBL Team:

Marvin Bagley III

Phoenix Phamily

Brandon Williams

California Supreme

Cameron Reddish

Team Final

Jalen Carey

NJ Playaz

Silvio de Sousa

E1T1 United

Brandon Johns

Spiece Indy Heat

Simi Shittu

CIA Bounce

Keldon Johnson

Boo Williams

Kamaka Hepa

Portland Basketball Club

Emmitt Williams

E1T1 United

Tim Finke

St. Louis Eagles

Antwaan Jones

E1T1 United

Darius Bazley

King James

Darius Garland

St. Louis Eagles

Jamie Lewis

Georgia Stars

Jalen Smith

Team Takeover

Dane Goodwin

All Ohio Red

Coby White

Team CP3

Kevin Porter Jr.

Seattle Rotary Select

Robert Woodard

Mississippi Express

Shareef O'Neal

California Supreme

Carte'Are Gordon

MOKAN Elite

Tre Jones

Howard Pulley

Brandon Slater

Team Takeover

KJ Hymes

LV Prospects

Isaiah Mucius

PSA Cardinals

Ayo Dosunmu

Mac Irvin Fire

2019

Rank:

Player:

EYBL Team:

Rank:

Player:

EYBL Team:

RJ Barrett

Uplay Canada

Romeo Weems

The Family Detroit

Charles Bassey

Nike Team Texas

James Wiseman

St. Louis Eagles

Trendon Watford

Alabama Challenge

Juwan Gary

Team United

Cassius Stanley

California Supreme

Vernon Carey Jr.

Nike Team Florida

Balsa Koprivica

Nike Team Florida

Christian Brown

Georgia Stars

Cole Anthony

PSA Cardinals

Max Lorca-Lloyd

PSA Cardinals

Chandler Lawson

Team Penny

Tyger Campbell

Spiece Indy Heat

Marcedus Leech

St. Louis Eagles

PJ Fuller

Seattle Rotary Select

Francis Chikuike-Okoro

St. Louis Eagles

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Marvin Bagley III doesn’t mince words. When asked about the best aspect of his current basketball repertoire, Bagley ignored his physical stature. He disregarded his athleticism. He turned a blind eye to his scoring ability and intangibles.

“I play hard.” Ranked No. 1 in ESPN’s recently updated 2018 class rankings, Bagley is all about what he can control. The most controllable aspect of every game is how hard you play. You don’t have to tell Bagley.

“I play hard every time I step on the floor. The 6-foot-10 freshman answered that I come with energy.“ Bagley explained. question with a sense of excitement and “I love the game of basketball, I’ve been energy. If you were to ask him, his answer playing my whole life. I come out 100% is the most important aspect of playing every time and go hard. If I play hard, basketball. everything else follows after that. So that’s definitely my main focus.”

By: Alec Kinsky

t was late January and the NIKE Elite Youth Basketball league was set to tip off in three months. Grassroots teams from across the country were desperately trying to finalize their rosters, and for some, finding that one piece could make the difference between ending the season as a favorite to win the Peach Jam title or as team just happy to be in the field. The PSA Cardinals learned on Jan. 29 that they had the piece that turned them into the former. That’s the date Quade Green, Philadelphia’s top-ranked junior guard, chose to join the roster. The 6-footer from Neumann-Goretti in Philadelphia, was heavily recruited by numerous programs and amid a dominant year, one that helped solidify Green’s reputation as a scorer. But Green wanted to prove he had more value on the court. He wanted the opportunity to prove to the nation he was also a facilitator. Terrence ‘Munch’ Williams, the PSA’s director and head coach, offered Green the opportunity. Already blessed with a roster filled with Division I prospects, Williams felt his squad was missing a final piece: a leader. He needed a floor general, someone to make all of his other pieces better. He needed Green. Already featuring big man

Mo Bamba, scorer Brandon Randolph, paint protector Deng Gak and freshman star Cole Anthony,

the Cardinals - one of three New York City EYBL affiliates - were going to win games regardless. It remained to be seen the impact Green would have on the current roster, as growing pains often coincide with joining of new

teammates. After the first three games of the EYB season, it was clear that incorporating Green would not be an issue. In three hardfought victories in Brooklyn, New York, the Cardinals newest player recorded 31 assists and averaged 13.6 points per game, earning Most Valuable Player while immediately landing on everyone’s radar - as a true point guard. “This is my first EYBL experience, so it’s been very exciting,” Green said. “A lot of toughness and competition. It’s been great.” As the circuit continued, Green showed no signs of letting up and stepped up when PSA lost Bamba for half of the regular season. Green needed to be excellent for PSA to stay ahead of the

EYBL pack, and excellent certainly describes his year. He is the only player to finish an EYBL season averaging a double-double with assists. He tallying 157 assists, 44 more than Trae Young, who had the second most. Maybe more impressive has been Green’s defense. He averaged a 2.9 steals per game in the regular season, including a five-game stretch in which he recorded 28 steals. Green, humble as can be, diverts the credit to his teammates. “They make my job so much easier,” Green said. “So much easier.” Most importantly, Green’s stellar play has led to victories. PSA wrapped up the season with a 14-2 record and enters Pool A as the favorite to advance into bracket play. Williams said Green is one of the most important pieces to the program, both on and off the court. “He’s a well respected leader that has proven himself to be a team-first guy,” Williams added. Williams doesn’t know where his PSA Cardinals would be without Green’s leadership, but he is certain of where they’re going. And so does Green, who is not satisfied by his record-breaking regular season and hopes to cap his EYBL career with a Peach Jam title.

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Green also knows his work has just started. In June, he’s starring for the USA Men’s U18 team, as well as taking visits to Duke, Kentucky, Syracuse and several other schools with powerhouse programs as he looks for the ideal landing spot. “Coaching, academics, and I want my coach to be a father figure,” Green said. “Someone I can go to and talk to. I really want a second home, and someone that is going to make me a better man.” Green is already on his way to being a terrific contributor to society. The leadership abilities he boasts on the court will help him off the court, and while basketball is game that requires

plenty of physical attributes, Green knows his brain is his best weapon. “The game definitely slows down for me,” Green said of his focus level. “You always have the think. It’s a mental and physical game. You have to think the game out, so it slows down for me a lot, and that’s helped a lot.” Next winter at Neumann-Goretti, Green plans to doing a lot more winning. He has lofty goals, but the confidence he exudes make his statement believable. This is Green’s last goround in grassroots basketball, so he won’t be burdened with the decision which team to join next year. Instead, his focus will be on

winning a state championship. “My senior year, I want to go undefeated,” Green said. “Every game we get our hands on, we want to win.” The same sentiment goes for Peach Jam. He made huge decision in January and hopes it pays off in another month that starts with ‘J’. “When July comes,” Green concluded. “We have to win Peach Jam.”

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By: Alec Kinsky

espite being stocked with the the best highmajor prospects in South Texas, the Houston Hoops struggled to earn a berth to the 2016 NIKE EYBL Peach Jam. There are a variety of reasons why these teams, which were well-groomed to make a run at the title, have come up short of winning a championship at the highest profile grassroots basketball event of the summer, and none offer solace to Jarred Vanderbilt. “I feel like I have unfinished business,” said Vanderbilt, who is in his third year with the Hoops. He’s not happy about those past outcomes, in fact it eats away at him. And having experienced that disappointment twice before, he’s looking to write a different ending this time. Two years ago, Houston boasted a young but talented lineup featuring Vanderbilt, De’Aaron Fox and Christian James. The trio carried the Hoops out of pool

play, but had their hopes dashed after losing to Cheick Diallo and the PSA Cardinals in bracket play. Last season, the Hoops tore through the regular season and finished 14-3, helping to establish themselves as a Peach Jam favorite. Unfortunately disaster struck in the second game of pool play as Vanderbilt took an elbow to the head while battling through traffic and suffered a concussion. He was sidelined for the rest of the tournament, and the Hoops were eliminated in the first round of bracket play again. Three-year 17U EYBL veterans are uncommon, and Vanderbilt plans of capitalizing on his final opportunity at Peach Jam glory. “I’m very hungry,” Vanderbilt said. “I’m extremely eager to get back to Peach Jam, considering we fell short of our ultimate goal last year. Especially with me being sidelined by an

injury, I feel as if I have some unfinished business.” The Hoops, a wildcard entrant from Division A, experienced an up-and-down regular session. Inconsistent play from a rotation with several high-major prospects resulted in an uninspiring 7-9 record. Vanderbilt, however, played like a veteran, posting averages of 13.5 points, 10.9 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. The team chemistry was the culprit for the struggles. After the first EYBL session in Brooklyn, New York, the Hoops brought in RM5 Elite (Texas) defect Billy Preston. The 6-foot-10 Preston, who was No. 7 in ESPN’s 2017 class rankings, was a welcomed midseason addition, but it took time for the pair to mesh. While their talent was undeniable, a lack of practice time hamper their ability to build an on-court rapport. Several weeks later, Vanderbilt said the process has been going well.

“We haven’t mastered playing together yet, which is scary,” he said. “We’ve gotten a lot better together each and every game and expect to make some noise in July.” Vanderbilt also hoped to make an impact in June, when he expected to play for the USA Men’s U17 team competing in Spain. However, a nagging stress fracture in his foot kept him participating. Instead, he’s checked out colleges, including an unofficial visit to TCU. Vanderbilt holds offers from Kentucky, Arizona and Kansas, along with several from high-major powerhouse programs. While Vanderbilt finds the recruiting process overwhelming at times, he is taking it in stride and hopes to find a school that accommodates his athletic - as well as his academic requirements. “I want to study Kinesiology or Business Management,” he said. Basketball isn’t his only athletic endeavor. Vanderbilt has taken up boxing. He had dabbled in the sport but

got serious about the it last year, and credits boxing for improving his conditioning, which benefits him on the court. “Also, it’s helped my footwork, hand-eye coordination and toughness,” he added.

YMCA, where he works with kids. Being a role model is important to Vanderbilt, and so is his family. Both are key components in his desire to succeed. “My family is my biggest motivation,” Vanderbilt said. “Just to see

This 6-foot-8, 210-pound pugilist with an incredibly massive reach has the potential to be a devastating cruiserweight, but he has no plans to reorder his pursuits. “Boxers train a lot harder,” Vanderbilt said. He also enjoys volunteering at the local

them happy and have them set for life in the future is my goal. Also, I want to be a role model for the younger guys coming up under me. Just to be someone that people admire and look up to.” Vanderbilt should have no problem achieving those goals. He has the tools to become an elite player, but

TRAE YOUNG: FLOOR GENERAL

eadership is the single most important factor in just how far a team will go in the EYBL Peach Jam. Following a disappointing year in which his MOKAN Elite squad bowed out in pool play, star floor general Trae Young chose to emphasize a different aspect of his game in 2016. “For me, it was being a leader on this team because we have a lot of really talented guys,” said Young, when asked about specific areas he focused on coming into the season. “I knew coming into the year that my role was to keep everyone happy and that we would be a family. I knew that I would have a lot of scorers around me and my scoring would take a hit, but I was okay with that.”

By: Nate Bucsko

Of course, averaging 21.3 PPG and coming in at fourth on the EYBL leaderboard in that department, Young’s production actually went up from last year, but that’s ignoring the point. Truth is, Young is as tough a competitor as anyone on the circuit, and in the end his main goal is winning regardless of stats. So what does being a leader mean to Young? “It’s being the biggest talker, hardest worker, and just setting an example for everyone on the team so I can back it up.” Even though MOKAN will enter Peach Jam as one of the favorites to win it all, Young is clearly still feeling the sting from the early 2015 exit and is hungry to lead his squad out of pool play.

“We just have to buy in and lock in from the get go. We have to take it one game at a time this year, knowing that as soon as you look ahead even one game that could be the end,” Young said. “This year I think everyone on the team besides one or two was in 16U or 17U Peach Jam, so that experience is definitely going to help,” said the point guard of what makes this year’s MOKAN team different. “They know the attitude and nothing will be new.” “After every season I look back and feel that I could do better. There are always games when we lose or where I feel I could havedone better. But, I always want to make sure that losses are learning experiences.”

After blowing up nationally as an underclassman last season, Young has failed to see the same type of rise despite playing for a better team and being arguably the best point guard in grassroots basketball in 2016. This has only served to fuel the fire, as Young is at his best when he has a chip on his shoulder. ”I always feel I have something to prove,” Young said of being overlooked by recruiting analysts. “Whether it is with rankings, whatever, I want to be the best at what I do.” “You aren’t going to see me as the most athletic guy on the court, but I can score in a lot of different ways. Not getting the respect I deserve definitely pushes me.” Despite some still failing to give this young the credit he has more than earned, college coaches have definitely taken notice, As a point guard, the most important thing for Young is clearly his relationship with the coaching staff and with his

future teammates. “I want to play somewhere that I can make an immediate impact and where I have a great relationship with the coaching staff and where my family feels comfortable,” Young said. Of course, one major question concerning Young’s recruitment is whether or not he will team up with his buddy, Michael Porter, Jr. For now, Young is leaving that question up in the air. “The schools that are recruiting him are still coming after me so it’s definitely still on the table, but at the end of the day we need to do what’s best for us,” Young said of the prospect. “We will be brothers no matter what because our relationship goes far beyond basketball. We will support each other no matter what.” As for the immediate future, the uncommon bond of MOKAN’s stars will likely have a huge pay off in North Augusta. “It helps being close with Mike because I know a lot about

him and his game,” said Young. “Us being close comes from being brothers off the court, and that helps us because when you are in those tough moments you play for each other. “This year we won’t be satisfied with anything but winning Peach Jam.” After the season wraps up as the final buzzer sounds in July, Young is far from finished working on his game and improving. The Norman North (OK) stud will be representing Team USA at the U18 World Championships, where he hopes to win a gold medal. So, what exactly does the EYBL mean to Young? His answer is always simple, always the same. “Any time someone asks me about the EYBL I always say it is the high school version of the NBA. It has absolutely the best talent at every position It is an experience that has given me a lot and I honestly can’t describe it in any other way.”

he 2016 season marks the seventh year of the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League. The league has featured some of the greatest young talent in basketball over the past six years, and all of these players have competed for the chance at Peach Jam glory. Only a select few have found ultimate success in North Augusta, South Carolina and earned the ability to call themselves Nike EYBL Peach Jam Champions. While some great talent has graced the league over the years, it takes a cohesive unit and a perfect storm of talent, coaching and luck to be crowned Peach Jam champion. It’s time to take a look back at the past six Peach Jam champions and see if any of this year’s 24 postseason-qualified EYBL teams can learn a bit from the league’s history to reach Peach Jam glory.

2010 Nike EYBL Champs: TEAM TAKEOVER

eam Takeover has been a top program in the EYBL since its inception, constantly vying for the Peach Jam glory. The Washington, D.C.-based squad started the inaugural EYBL season strong and didn’t slow down on its way to a Peach Jam championship. Takeover earned a decisive 7257 victory over Spiece Indy Heat in the semifinals behind a strong 18-point, 14-rebound performance from Julian DeBose (Florida Gulf Coast). In the other semifinal, Bradley Beal (Florida; Washington Wizards) scored 18 points to lead the St. Louis Eagles to a 73-70 victory over

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist’s (Kentucky; Charlotte Hornets) Team Final. In the inaugural championship game, Team Takeover made a strong impression with a 70-62 victory over an evenly matched the St. Louis Eagles squad. James Robinson (Pittsburgh) had 24 points and eight rebounds and Michael Gbinije (Syracuse; Detroit Pistons) added 19 points and five rebounds for Takeover. Beal scored 26 points and Roosevelt Jones (Butler) tallied 13 points and eight rebounds for the Eagles.

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2011 Nike EYBL Champs: BABC

ed by 2015 Krossover Coach of the Year Leo Papile, BABC has been among the top Amateur Athletic Union teams in the country, with 17 AAU national championships. A strong roster and two dominating performances led BABC to their sole Peach Jam championship. BABC defeated the Oakland Soldiers 74-60 in the semifinals behind big man Nerlens Noel (Kentucky; Philadelphia 76ers), who posted 12 points, 11 blocks and 10 rebounds. Georges Niang (Iowa State; Indiana Pacers) added 18 points and Jaylen Brantley (Maryland) had 17. Rene Castro (Duquesne) finished with 12 points and seven assists for the Boston-based club. Aaron Gordon (Arizona; Orlando Magic) had 13 points Isaac Hamilton (UCLA) chipped in 13 and Brandon Ashley (Arizona) added in 10 for the Soldiers.

On the other side of the bracket, the Tennessee-based YOMCA squad rolled past the Georgia Stars in a 78-64 victory. Jarnell Stokes (Memphis; Miami Heat/Memphis Grizzlies) had 12 points and 17 rebounds while Shaq Goodwin (Memphis) finished with 29 points and 12 rebounds to lead YOMCA. Anthlon Bell (Arkansas) added 15 points in the win. The Stars had solid performances by Marcus Hunt (Georgia Tech), Jaron Blossomgame (Clemson) and Alex Poythress (Kentucky) in the loss. In the championship game, BABC pulled away to defeat YOMCA 84-67 and avenged their only regular-season loss that year. Brantley (24 points) and Niang (21 points, 7 rebounds) were outstanding in the game, but Noel took the spotlight with a well-rounded performance, posting 17 points, 10 rebounds, six blocks, five assists and four steals.

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2012 Nike EYBL Champs: OAKLAND SOLDIERS

fter two years of the EYBL Peach Jam champi-

Andrew Wiggins (Kansas; Minnesota Timberwolves) led

onship residing on the East Coast, the title was

Bounce with 23 points and six rebounds, and point guard

headed west as the Oakland Soldiers marched to

Tyler Ennis (Syracuse; Milwaukee Bucks) delivered 22 points

Peach Jam glory.

and five rebounds in the win.

The Soldiers have always had strong teams in the

Austin Ruder (Missouri State) scored 18 points,

EYBL, and the 2012 lineup proved to have plenty of mettle

Clayton Custer (Loyola Chicago) added 12, Lourawls “Tum

as they completed one of the tightest championship runs

Tum” Nairn Jr. (Michigan State) had 14 and Semilore Ojeleye

in event history with a pair of low-scoring, close games.

(SMU) finished with 10 for MOKAN Elite.

The Soldiers out-maneuvered Team CP3 in the

The championship game was a back-and-forth

semifinals thanks to Gordon, Jabari Bird (California) and

affair which saw the Oakland Soldiers escape with a 51-50

Stanley Johnson (Arizona; Detroit Pistons), who accounted

victory over CIA Bounce. Gordon delivered 16 points and

for 84 percent of the team’s scoring. Johnson and Bird each

10 rebounds and Johnson, who was only a sophomore,

had 17 points while Gordon added 12 points and nine

contributed 15 points and six rebounds for the Soldiers.

rebounds. CP3 was led by Greg McCLinton (Wake Forest),

Wiggins helped keep CIA Bounce in the game, finishing

who had a game-high 16 points, while Theo Pinson (North

with 23 points and nine rebounds, while Ennis added nine

Carolina) added in nine points and five rebounds.

points and six rebounds. The Soldiers’ one-point victory re-

mains the lowest scoring championship game in Nike EYBL

The Canadian squad CIA Bounce recorded an 81-67

victory over MOKAN Elite in the other semifinal. Forward

Peach Jam history.

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2013 Nike EYBL Champs: E1T1

he 2013 Peach Jam final four had an East Coast feel once again, with Philadelphia’s Team Final facing North Carolina’s Team CP3 in one semifinal and Florida’s E1T1 taking on Tennessee’s Team Penny in the other. This tournament, however, will be remembered for one thing: offense. Team CP3 sent Team Final back to the City of Brotherly Love after an 87-82 victory. The starters for Team CP3 carried the scoring load, as LJ Peak (Georgetown) went 8-for-14 from the

floor to finish with 21 points. Pinson (North Carolina) had a 14-point, 10-rebound game, but no one was more impressive than Gary Clark (Cincinnati), who tallied 20 points and 16 rebounds in the victory. Malachi Richardson (Syracuse; Charlotte Hornets) led Team Final with 23 points and five rebounds while shooting 9-for-18 from the field. Miles Bridges (Michigan State) added 14 points and seven rebounds in the loss.

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E1T1’s depth and unselfish play proved to be the difference in a 102-80 victory over Team Penny. E1T1 finished with 29 assists as seven of the squad’s players scored in double figures. The Lawson brothers led the way as Dedric (Memphis) delivered 25 points and 15 boards and Keelon (Memphis) posted 17 points. D’Angelo Russell (Ohio State; Los Angeles Lakers) added 16 points and Grayson Allen (Duke) had 15. KeVaughn Allen (Florida) led Team Penny with 21 points. The final was a shootout, and E1T1’s 108-14 victory set a record as the highest scoring championship game in Nike EYBL history. E1T1 took a 10-point lead into halftime and withstood a furious effort from Team CP3 - which scored 61 points in the

second half - to hold on for the win. A balanced offensive effort was key in the victory Boubacar Moungoro, Joel Berry III (North Carolina) and Russell each finished with 20 or more points. Allen kicked in 16 points and Kobie Eubanks (Texas A&M) added 14 for E1T1. CP3 was led by Pinson (23 points, 9 rebounds) and Clark (20 points, 14 rebounds), while point guard Nate Mason (Minnesota) finished with 21 points and seven assists and was a major factor in the game remaining close. After the 2012 Peach Jam champions showed how a team with a solid defensive core can be the spark for a title, in 2013 E1T1 reminded everyone that it’s near impossible to stop a well-oiled offensive machine.

2014 Nike EYBL Champs: NEW JERSEY PLAYAZ

he 2014 seasons saw a return to the Peach Jam semi-finals for Team Penny, with an extra year of EYBL experience under their belts aiding the team in making a deeper run. Penny was joined in the semis by Boo Williams out of Virginia, the PSA Cardinals who boasted one of the best frontcourts in the league, and the NJ Playaz who were led by an extremely strong stable of backcourt players. Team Penny took on Boo Williams in one of the semifinal games, and an extra year of experience helped propel Penny into the championship game with a 77-68 victory. Penny returned both Lawson brothers (24 combined pts) and

Allen (14 pts) which was one of the most experienced starting lineups in the league. Penny also saw contributions from Donte Fitzpatrick (Ole Miss; 10 pts, 4 reb) and freshman PJ Washington (11 pts, 8 reb). Penny used their experience and size to gain the rebounding edge in the contest, with the Lawson brothers and Washington pulling down 30 of the team’s 46 rebounds, nearly matching Boo Williams’ team total of 31. Boo was led by Chris Clarke (Virginia Tech) with 13 pts and Kenny Williams (North Carolina) with 12 pts. Bam Adebayo (Kentucky) had nearly half of the team’s rebounds with 14 in the game.

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On the other side of the bracket, in the battle of New York or New Jersey, this time New Jersey came out on top. The NJ Playaz defeated the PSA Cardinals 65-55 to advance. The Playaz were led by Isaiah Briscoe (Kentucky) who had 18 pts in the victory, including 10-11 FTs made. He was supported by Temple Gibbs Jr. (Notre Dame), who put up 13 pts, and Moustapha Diagne (Syracuse) with 11 pts. PSA closed the gap in the second half, but ultimately their 5-22 shooting from 3-pt range made it difficult to get back into it. Tyus Battle (Syracuse) with his 18 pts and Cheick Diallo (Kansas; New Orleans Pelicans) with his 13 pts and 11 reb helped to keep PSA in the game. The 2014 championship game was one of the closest and definitely the most captivating in Nike EYBL Peach Jam history. The game was tight into the final minute, and the free throws resulting from a controversial technical foul call with 3.8 seconds remaining broke the 83-83 tie. The NJ

Playaz emerged victorious 85-83 over Team Penny in arguably the greatest title game in the history of the EYBL. In the title bout, the Lawsons again helped lead the team, with K.J. tallying 20 points on 8-16 FGs while pulling down 8 boards. Brother Dedric had 14 pts and 8 reb of his own, and also swatted 5 shots.. Allen put up 22 pts, while Washington kicked in 14 pts on 7-9 FG shooting and grabbed 8 rebounds. To secure the championship for the Playaz, Briscoe was again pivotal. He nearly tallied a triple-double, scoring 20 pts, grabbing 12 reb, and dishing 7 assists. Briscoe also had ice in his veins, knocking down the go-ahead free throws in the final four seconds of the game. Diagne was again a beast down low, scoring 16 pts on 50% shooting, and grabbing 14 reb. Gibbs chipped in 19 points, while Trevon Duval scored 12 and Elijah Cain (DePaul) added 11.

2015 Nike EYBL Champs: GEORGIA STARS

hile the 2014 title game will be remembered for its dramatic ending, the 2015 championship was memorable for how lopsided the outcome was, as Georgia Stars secured their first Peach Jam trophy. Both semifinals were close, and the St. Louis Eagles advanced to the finals by the slimmest of margins. The Eagles overcame a 14-point halftime deficit to edge Team CP3 74-73 by leaning heavily on Jordan Barnes (Indiana State) and Jayson Tatum (Duke), who both played more than 36 minutes in the game. Tatum was spectacular, totaling 28 points on 11-for-19 shooting and grabbed five rebounds while Barnes added 11

points. Alonzo Verge went 5 for 8 and chipped in 13 points, and Tyler Cook (Iowa) had 11 for St Louis. EYBL MVP Harry Giles III (Duke) tallied 12 points and 14 rebounds in 37 minutes for CP3, and teammates Alterique Gilbert (UConn) and Trevor Willis scored 14 and 13 points, respectively. The other semifinal also included several players who logged plenty of extra time as the game went to overtime, where the Stars defeated Team Takeover 83-77. Jared Harper (Auburn) and Trent Forrest (Florida State) powered the Stars to victory. Harper scored 24 points on 8-for-14 shooting, and Forrest went 8-for-13 from the

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floor to finish with 16 points also had nine rebounds. Surprisingly, Wendell Carter was quiet in the win, contributing only four points while playing 19 minutes. VJ King (Louisville) was spectacular for Takeover, racking up 26 points and converting 18 of 22 free throws in 39 minutes. DJ Harvey added 13 points (6-10 FG) and seven rebounds in the loss. After the semifinals, no one would have predicted the championship game would result in the largest margin of victory in EYBL Peach Jam history, but a big second half by the Stars ensured the outcome. Georgia outscored St. Louis by 20 points after halftime and cruised to a 104-77 victory, as the inside-outside combination of Harper and Carter was simply too difficult for the Eagles to stop. Harper put on a shooting clinic (11-

21 FG, 9-13 FT, 3-7 3PT) and scored 34 points in 36 minutes, while Carter was dominant, tallying 25 points (8-10 FG, 9-10 FT) and 13 rebounds. Forrest added 12 points and 10 rebounds for the Stars. The Eagles got 24 points from Tatum while Barnes contributed 13 and Cook had 12. While there is no recipe for Peach Jam success, the past six championship teams found a combination that worked. Many of this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entrants, however, have the ingredients needed to win a title, and to cook up a victory in the finals, it is as simple as this: teams must play to their strengths and trust what got them to this point. And on July 10, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll know which team did this the best and will be the next to call itself Nike EYBL Peach Jam champions.

16E SCHEDULE

JULY 6 JULY 7 JULY 9 All Ohio Red vs. St. Louis Eagles 8:00 am EDT

St. Louis Eagles vs. Southern Stampede 3:30 pm EDT

St. Louis Eagles vs. UPlay Canada 1:30 pm EDT

Team CP3 vs. Georgia Stars 8:00 am EDT

Georgia Stars vs. Team Takeover 3:30 pm EDT

Georgia Stars vs. PSA Cardinals 1:30 pm EDT

NJ Playaz vs. Meansteets 8:00 am EDT

Meanstreets vs. E1T1 United 3:30 pm EDT

Meanstreets vs. Expressions Elite 1:30 pm EDT

Team Melo vs. NY Rens 8:00 am EDT

NY Rens vs. Team Penny 3:30 pm EDT

NY Rens vs. King James 1:30 pm EDT

Southern Stampede vs. UPlay Canada 9:30 pm EDT

UPlay Canada vs. All Ohio Red 5:00 pm EDT

All Ohio Red vs. Southern Stampede 3:00 pm EDT

Team Takeover vs. PSA Cardinals 9:30 pm EDT

PSA Cardinals vs. Team CP3 5:00 pm EDT

Team CP3 vs. Team Takeover 3:00 pm EDT

E1T1 United vs. Expressions Elite 9:30 pm EDT

Expressions Elite vs. NJ Playaz 5:00 pm EDT

NJ Playaz vs. E1T1 United 3:00 pm EDT

Team Penny vs. King James 9:30 pm EDT

King James vs. Team Melo 5:00 pm EDT

Team Melo vs Team Penny 3:00 pm EDT

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RECORD: 14-2

ehind Most Valuable Player Harry Giles, Team CP3 spent the entire 2015 regular season ranked as the EYBL’s top team, but bowed out of last year’s Peach Jam in the semifinals. Giles is off to Duke and star point guard Alterique Gilbert is off to UConn, meaning it was time for CP3 to reload. In perhaps the biggest move of the offseason, 2015 Peach Jam Most Valuable Player Wendell Carter Jr. moved from

FINISH: 1ST DIVISION A

TEAM CP3 the Georgia Stars to Team CP3. helping the team close out the His impact was felt immediately regular season with 12 straight victories and finish with a 14-2 record. Head coach Jon Adams brings a red-hot squad to North Augusta, and the will be plenty hungry after last year’s disappointing finish. Ranked by ESPN as the No. 2 prospect in 2017, Carter solidified a rotation that is balanced, unselfish and extremely talented. The allaround big man is the focal after joining CP3 during point of every defense’s game Session 2 in Indianapolis,

See roster on page 156

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WENDELL CARTER 16.8 PPG 70.9 FG% 10.2 RPG plan, and without him, CP3 would not be favored to compete for a Peach Jam championship. Carter (16.8 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 2.5 BPG) does it all on the floor, from starting and finishing fast breaks to nailing clutch jumpers. His play was impressive all season, highlighted by a 30-point, 16-rebound performance against top-10-ranked big men DeAndre Ayton and Brandon McCoy. He was dominant last year at Peach Jam and should be even better this time around, especially with the supporting cast at his disposal. Carter is an elite talent, but he has plenty of help. Sharpshooter Michael Hueitt Jr. (56 3-pointers), swingman JP Moorman (9.1 PPG) and floor general Lavar Batts (11.8 PPG, 3.7 APG) have providing excellent value while adjusting to their roles. Hueitt has become one of the best perimeter threats on the circuit. He shoots 47.3 percent from behind the 3-point line and is the clear-cut No. 1 perimeter option for CP3 when Carter gets doubleteamed. If he is making shots

MICHAEL HUEITT JR LAVAR BATTS JR 11.8 PPG 14.1 PPG 75.0 FT% 47.5 3PT% 3.7 APG 2.6 RPG

from the perimeter, this team becomes incredibly hard to guard. Batts (ESPN 2017 No. 99) is this the floor general for this group, but he can also shoot and is the team’s best perimeter defender. Moorman and Oak Hill (Virginia) junior guard Devontae Shuler (ESPN 2017 No. 76) both shoot just under 50 percent from the floor and combined for 26 3-pointers on the regular season. They must continue their solid offensive play and take advantage of the open looks. Blake Harris, who joined CP3 after Session 2, has made an impact for Adams and company. A gifted passer, the junior guard (ESPN 4-Star) adapted quickly to a facilitating role and sported nearly a 3-to-1 assist-to-

turnover ratio through eight EYBL games. Look for ESPN 4-star Junior Victor Enoh (6.1 PPG, 5.6 RPG) to play a role at Peach Jam, as he is the other big man on the roster. Enoh regularly impacts the game without having plays called for him, and is a crucial role player in CP3’s rotation. A pair of Jalen’s - Seegars and Spicer - both receive minutes off the bench for CP3. Seegars (4.9 PPG), a 6-foot-5 shooting guard, has proven to be very efficient, shooting 66.7% from the field through 16 games. Pool C is loaded with talent, but it would be silly not to consider CP3 the clear-cut favorite. Their 10-man rotation is uber talented, and with Carter, they have a superstar who has massive amounts of Peach Jam experience. They were favorites to win the title last year, and look every bit the part this season. If they carry over the momentum from the regular season, there is no reason they won’t be hoisting a trophy on July 10.

RECORD: 11-5

1T1 has had tremendous success in the EYBL over the past few years, and last year was no exception as they reached Peach Jam bracket play while finishing the circuit with 17-6 record. That said, it’s hard to tell just how good this squad can be, mainly because it has never played with its entire lineup together. Only four of their rotation players participated in all 16 games, so the team’s potential is through the roof.

FINISH: 2ND DIVISION B

E1T1 Junior EYBL veteran Kevin Knox (ESPN 2017 No. 7) took his

See roster on page 140 game to another level during the regular season, averaging

19.6 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. Knox played a key role on last year’s squad - one headlined by star forward Jonathan Isaac and center Tony Bradley - and he made this his team from the get-go. Knox already has a knack for making clutch plays in close games, but he has improved his outside shooting, which should allow him to make an impact on the perimeter. E1T1 would be in good shape on offense if it only had

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KEVIN KNOX 19.6 PPG 7.3 RPG 1.5 APG Knox, but the Tampa Catholic (Florida) product is only one of several highly ranked and talented teammates on the roster. Sophomore Emmitt Williams (ESPN 2018 No. 14) has been a beast down low, shooting 64.3 percent from the floor and grabbing the second-most offensive rebounds (54) of all EYBL underclassmen (Marvin Bagley III leads with 55). Sophomore Nick Honor (ESPN 4-Star) and junior Sylvain Francisco lead a group of undersized guards and are backcourt spark plugs for head coach Steve Reece. Honor may not look flashy with the ball in his hands, but he is deceptively quick and has a high IQ, allowing him to make the correct decision most of the time. Francisco will likely be the natural second scoring option behind Knox, proving he is more than capable of shouldering a considerable offensive load while they were missing pieces throughout the season.

NICK HONOR 11 PPG 2.6 APG 91.1% FT

Bruno Fernando (ESPN 2016 No. 71) both missed valuable time during the season, as did juniors Tyler Polley (ESPN 4-Star) and David Nickelberry (ESPN 3-Star), making it anyone’s guess how high the ceiling is for E1T1. With all four players making noticeable impacts in the rotation, it’s safe to say that we haven’t seen the best that E1T1 has to offer. Each player missed time for different reasons, but all of them figure to be active and healthy when the Peach Jam bell rings. Darius Banks and Luis Hurtado each see minutes in the backcourt, contributing to a squad that boasts the circuit’s fourth-best shooting percentage (49.5) from the floor. On paper, if everyone is on the floor, E1T1 boasts one of the best squads in North Augusta. Fernando and de Sousa are game

High-major big men Silvio de Sousa (ESPN 2018 No. 6) and recently reclassified Powered by

EMMITT WILLIAMS 10.4 PPG 6.7 RPG 64.0 FG%

changers down low, and their presence alone will help free up Knox offensively. While E1T1 United has a lineup stocked with ranked players, it’s weakness is in the backcourt, mainly due to their lack of depth. They desperately need Honor and Francisco to continue their solid play, and if E1T1 is at or near full strength, they could run through pool play and take aim at the title. All of that being said, E1T1’s inconsistent rotation make it a difficult team to scout. However, not many teams can compete with the size and depth that E1T1 brings to the table, so the best option for opponents may be to pack a lunch as they prepare to face possible one of most talented versions of E1T1 to date. In Pool C, this squad will have to face the likes of Team CP3, Houston Hoops and Team Final. They will be tested immediately, squaring off against Hamidou Diallo and the NY Rens to start off their 2016 Peach Jam. Will they continue their Peach Jam success? Only time will tell.

RECORD: 10-6

FINISH: 5TH DIVISION D

TEAM FINAL

eam Final returns to Peach Jam despite the losses of Tony Carr, Lamar Stevens and Nazeer Bostick, who are now enrolled at Penn State. Coming out of the loaded Division D, the team started the season on a tear and looked as if it was one of the country’s most dominant teams. Though Final has cooled since then, they still remain a scary draw thanks to their guards and wings. The group is led by guard Lonnie Walker

(No. 14 ESPN 2017), an athletic sharpshooter capable of taking

See roster on page 157 over a game with his scoring. He has experience playing in

Peach Jam last season, which will help this team compete for a championship. Head coach Aaron Burt always has his team ready to play, and his rotation is good enough to beat anyone in the field. The struggled in pool play last year, but with a 10-6 regular-season record, Final hopes to make that performance a distant memory. Walker (ESPN 2017 No. 14) shoots 40.2 percent from the 3-point line and averages 16.7 points and 4.1 rebounds

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LONNIE WALKER 16.7 PPG 4.1 RPG 2.8 APG per game, and Final will likely go as far as he takes them. Known for making his teammates better, Walker may need to play more aggressively for Final to advance. When he firing on all cylinders, Final is dangerous in transition and can score in bunches. Walker, however, doesn’t have to shoulder the scoring load. Cameron Reddish (15.2 PPG, 4.8 RPG) has shown he is can be an offensive threat. The 2018 wing is highly skilled, fundamentally sound and plays to his strengths, which includes slashing to the hoop and being active in transition. Reddish (ESPN 2018 No. 5) is also improving as a perimeter shooter and could be another weapon come July. Not to be overlooked, point guard Daron Russell (12.0 PPG, 4.4 APG) and forward Dhamir CosbyRoundtree (10.8 PPG, 7.6 RPG) combine round out the offensive. Russell (ESPN 4-Star) is a heady player who understands how to use the weapons at his disposal, especially Walker, as the two have good chemistry on

CAMERON REDDISH 15.2 PPG 4.8 RPG 2.3 APG

the floor. Cosby-Roundtree (ESPN 4-Star), a high school teammate of PSA Cardinals star Quade Green, he has introduced himself to the league with a series of doubledoubles consistently and is known to run the floor extremely well. Verbally committed to Villanova, Cosby-Roundtree might be the most important piece of the championship puzzle, as his presence gives Final the ability to compete with the league’s top frontlines. So does 6-foot7 Justyn Mutts, who showed flashes of greatness during the regular season but must improve his production in July. Mutts is a mid-major prospect, but has the chance to take his recruitment to a new level with a strong showing in North Augusta, South Carolina.

DHAMIR COSBY-ROUNDTREE

10.8 PPG 7.6 RPG 1.9 BPG

They don’t go much deeper than seven players, but their rotation is chocked full of talent, and it’s not foreign to them to implement a guard-heavy lineup. It will be vitally important that CosbyRoundtree stays out of foul trouble, as sophomore big man Marcus Littles is their only capable backup in the middle. Last year didn’t go as planned for Team Final, so they will use 2016 as redemption. Will they reach the final eight again after a year hiatus? Their schedule is going to be a daunting three-day task, but with Walker playing his best basketball, it’s hard to bet against Team Final. Team Final will face off against teams like E1T1, BABC and Team CP3 in Pool C, two of three which advanced out of pool play last season. They will have their work cut out for them, but this may be the one pool where any team can beat another at any time. On the strength of their balanced offense, this team will be a threat.

RECORD: 9-7

ABC didn’t finish this season with an undefeated divisional record, but they were still highly competitive. Unlike last year’s team that went 13-4 overall, this squad struggled to find offensive consistency. However, BABC improved immensely with the addition for 6-foot-7 sophomore swingman Cole Swider, who helped the team overcome the lost several veteran leaders from from a year ago, including

BABC Miami (Florida) commit Bruce Brown. With Swider, the team

See roster on page 137 played like one of the best grassroots programs in the

country. They didn’t get any breaks with the placement in Pool C, but they will gladly take on the challenge. In another change, Leo Papile handed over head coaching duties to his daughter Britney, who continued employing the same chaotic pressing defense to lead the squad to a 9-7 record. Similar to past BABC teams, this year’s version can score from the perimeter and boasts the EYBL’s third-best 3-point shooting

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MARCUS SANTOS-SILVA 12.5 PPG 9.2 RPG 1.7 APG percentage (37.2). Marcus Santos-Silva (12.5 PPG, 9.2 RPG) is a force for BABC, using his 270-pound frame to clear space for teammates. Santos-Silva became a dynamic player for BABC, and he’s a big reason they have earned a berth at Peach Jam. A Vermont Academy product, SantosSilva was dominant during the final two regular-season sessions, putting together several impressive statlines that showcased his ability to rebound and score in the paint. Four-year EYBL veteran Terrell Brown has been better than ever, and the 6-foot-10 big man partners with SantosSilva to form one of the larger frontlines on the circuit. Brown (11.0 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 2.1 BPG), is a walking double-double who really excels on defense, where his paint presence plays a vital role in Papile’s unique defensive press - which gives everyone fits on the circuit. Swider, however, is the X-factor for BABC. He averages 12.3 points per game and shoots 39.3 percent from behind the 3-point line and has gotten better throughout the season. Swider is capable of dropping

TERRELL BROWN 11.0 PPG 5.9 RPG 2.1 BPG

20 points at any time and must carry an offense that struggles. BABC averaged 59.7 points per game, the lowest scoring average in the Peach Jam field and the third-lowest in the EYBL, and as a result, implementing their style of play is crucial for success. And reaching Peach Jam is a true testament to how good their defense is. They allow less than 60 points per contest, a field-goal percentage that is the third-lowest among the Peach Jam teams. Only the PSA Cardinals and St. Louis Eagles are better defensively. Corey Romich, Jalyn Hinton, Justin Mazzulla and Jakigh Dottin combine to average 24.6 points a game as a backcourt. A 6-foot-4 point guard, Mazzulla is the floor general and averages 6.6 assists per game (third-best in the EYBL). Romich, also a Vermont Academy product, is the shooter and has a team-

COLE SWIDER 12.3PPG 3.4 RPG 39.3 3P%

high 37 3-pointers while converting at 41 percent from behind the arc. BABC also features Keyshaad Dixon and Bailey Patella in a guard-heavy rotation, and both will have a chance to improve their stock. Papile’s bunch shoot 47.6 percent from the floor and shoot five percent better than their opponent from behind the 3-point line. They must meet or improve on these numbers to stay competitive in pool play. Santos-Silva and Brown have both put up monster numbers on occasion throughout their 16 games, and they figure to have some epic matchups against some elite frontlines. BABC is a rare entity in grassroots basketball. They may not have the most talent or athleticism, but their style wears teams down - both physically and mentally. As one of several teams in Pool C with both Peach Jam experience and elite depth, BABC has the opportunity to make it to the final eight. The effectiveness of their constant pressure defense is rare in grassroots basketball and could be the difference-maker come July.

RECORD: 8-8

he RENS made their EYBL debut this year, fresh off an adidas Gauntlet Championship last season, but it was up in the air whether the team would be a success without All-Americans Rawle Alkins and Mustapha Heron. The RENS erased all doubt almost immediately, due largely to a late commitment from Hamidou Diallo, the No. 11 recruit in ESPN’s 2017 rankings. Surrounded by a bevy of talented offensive players,

FINISH: 4TH DIVISION C

NY RENS Diallo and company got off to a strong start before sputtering

See roster on page 148 to an 8-8 finish in Division C. They closed out the season

playing a difficult schedule, something that should only help them moving into July. Diallo, a 6-foot-6 junior star at Putnam Science Academy (Connecticut), possesses athleticism of an NBA2K created player. Diallo exploded onto the scene during Session 1, establishing that he’s one of the best playmakers in the 2017 class. With a 18.6 points-per-game average, he is their stud and clearly has the green light in

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HAMIDOU DIALLO 18.6 PPG 5.6 RPG 2.1 APG their offense. Diallo converted on 43.3 percent of the 245 shots he took in the regular season. Diallo plays with a ferocity that is almost always unmatched, using his mean streak to dictate his style of play. He enters the event as the highest-ranked guard in the pool and will likely put on a show in North Augusta. Diallo is joined by point guard Jose Alvarado and swingmen Jordan Tucker and Jordan Nwora, with the quartet accounting for the vast majority of the scoring for head coach Andy Borman and company. The 6-foot-1 Alvarado (ESPN 4-Star) is the best passer of the bunch - the floor general who commands the offense - and one of the top playmakers in the pool. He is the straw that stirs the RENS’ drink, and he will need to be on top of his game. All four players average double-figures in scoring and each brings something different to the table, which has helped the group mesh well - something that isn’t always the case when teams start high-major players. The RENS’ numbers are somewhat

JORDAN NWORA 14.6 PPG 43 3PTM 6.1 RPG

misleading, as they don’t shoot it well (42.6 percent from the field) but are the fourth-highest scoring team on the circuit (1,206 points). It’s a result due in large part to their tremendous perimeter shooting. They have 109 3-pointers in 16 games, third-most in the league, with Nwora hitting a team-high 45 and Tucker (ESPN 2017 No. 35) adding 35. Tucker, a high-major prospect who recently picked up interest from Duke, is one of the best pure shooters in the country. As a tandem, no one shoots better than Nwora and Tucker, meaning The RENS are truly never out of a game. While the core players will determine how far this team advances, RENS still need production from their supporting cast. Forward Samson George averages 6.7 rebounds per contest and

JOSE ALVARADO 11.0 PPG 5.2 APG 4.5 RPG

must continue his workmanlike production, while 7-foot big man Chris Efretuei will be needed to counter the formidable frontlines of fellow pool participants Houston Hoops and Team CP3. Playing small isn’t necessarily a bad thing, and the RENS may have gotten slightly lucky to be placed in a pool with other squads that lack ideal height. The RENS play an extremely fun style of basketball to watch, and nothing should change in July. Depth is an issue and they won’t impress defensively due to their offensive mindset. However, they have the firepower to outscore opponents and it won’t take long to tell if that game plan is successful as Diallo and his talented teammates also face E1T1 in pool play. Advancing to Peach Jam bracket play isn’t impossible for the RENS, but it would be an impressive feat for a team in its debut season. If they ramp up their defensive intensity during their five pool play games, we could be looking at bracket play for this debuting RENS squad.

RECORD: 7-9

FINISH: WILD CARD DIVISION B

HOUSTON HOOPS

ouston Hoops faced enormous expectations to begin the season and only increased the pressure after adding 2017 superstar forward Billy Preston to the roster after Session 1. Team chemistry hasn’t panned out for the Hoops, who struggled to recover from a brutal opening weekend and limped to a 7-9 regular-season record. However, the team locked up the final Peach Jam wildcard spot and has a chance to

redeem itself. if any team is capable of making major noise

See roster on page 144 and knocking off one of the heavyweights in the field, it

is the Hoops. They’re the top rebounding team on the circuit (618 total rebounds for a 38.6 per-game average) and are very good defending the perimeter, as they limit opponents to 28.3 percent from behind the threepoint arc. Three-year EYBL veteran Jarred Vanderbilt (ESPN 2017 No. 20) continues to be a do-itall producer, averaging 13.5 points, 10.9 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game after 16 contests. Vanderbilt has the

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JARRED VANDERBILT BILLY PRESTON 13.5 PPG 14.7 PPG 10.9 RPG 7.3 RPG 3.7 APG 1.9 APG tendency to disappear during stretches, but when he plays aggressively and is looking to score, he is absolutely lethal and capable of putting this team on his back. Vanderbilt stars in the frontcourt alongside Preston (ESPN 2017 No. 13), who averaged 14.7 points and 7.3 rebounds per game during the final 12 matchups. Preston has an all-around game, including impressive ball skills that allow him to operate as a point-forward. Preston, who will transfer to powerhouse Oak Hill Academy (Virginia) for his senior season, is physically gifted and can battle inside with opposing big men, but where he excels is in the open court. For the Hoops to make a run, Vanderbilt and Preston must play great. It’s a tall order, but one both expect to achieve. In the backcourt, high-major prospects RJ Nembhard (12.1 PPG) and Jay Jay Chandler (11.3 PPG) have proven to be viable scoring options for head coach Tim Schumacher. Nembhard (ESPN 4-Star) is the only Hoops player with double-digit three-pointers, having made 22 this season.

It’s a staggering weakness on a team that is shooting 29.1 percent from behind the threepoint line. Nembhard is also an excellent ball-handler who can get into the lane at will, so if he is hitting from behind the arc, he has the ability to keep a defense off-balance. Chandler (ESPN 4-Star) has been inconsistent shooting from the floor at times this season, but he is a playmaker who knows when it’s time to be aggressive. Either one of these guys could lead this team in scoring, which takes a lot of pressure off the stud forwards. Speaking of forwards, three rotation players - Isiah Jasey, Matthew Mayer and Cedrick Alley Jr. - will play vital minutes, and their improved production would pay huge dividends. Houston will need to use the month off to practice nonstop,

RJ NEMBHARD 12.1 PPG 3.6 RPG 2.0 APG

because the only thing holding it back at this point is the lack cohesiveness between its talented players. Improved chemistry could help the Hoops over the hump in July, and they have nothing to lose given many weren’t expecting the team to be included in the field. However, the squad has virtually no shot at winning it all if Vanderbilt or Preston struggle, so consistency from both and contributions from either Chandler or Nembhard could provide the winning recipe. Simply put, the talent is there for Schumacher and company, and we expect a very strong showing from Houston in North Augusta. Though they are in perhaps the most stacked pool in Peach Jam, with the likes of Team CP3, Team Final and E1T1, among others, Houston’s talent level makes them a solid threat to advance. They match up well and have better overall size than most of their counterparts in Pool C, so things could get interesting if this team stays healthy and shakes things up by moving on.

RECORD: 14-2

FINISH: 1ST DIVISION B

HOWARD PULLEY

lite Youth Basketball’s No. 1-ranked team throughout the regular season, the Howard Pulley Panthers are a force to be reckoned with. Led by Gary Trent Jr. (ESPN 2017 No. 9), last year’s EYBL leading scorer, Howard Pulley separated itself from the pack early and cruised to an undefeated record through three sessions before finishing with a 14-2 record. Twenty-year veteran head coach Antwan Harris may have done his finest work

this season, turning a talented but thin roster into one of

See roster on page 142 the nation’s best teams. They execute offensively and play

incredible team defense, and Harris knows his personnel like the back of his hand. Trent’s second season in the EYBL has been almost completely different than his first, with the only similarity being his scoring (22.6 points per game). The biggest difference? Winning. Missing Peach Jam last year led to many sleepless nights for the 6-foot-6 junior, who used it as motivation to turn in another terrific statistical season

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GARY TRENT JR. 22.2 PPG 6.3 RPG 2.2 APG However, the increase in wins easily trump any stats for Trent - even the honor of winning 2016 EYBL Most Valuable Player. Brad Davison has been electrifying alongside Trent, averaging 17.0 points while shooting a blistering 43.5 percent from the behind the arc. The duo’s impressive production has been muchneeded, as Harris’ crew only features seven rotation players. Tre Jones (6.4 PPG, 4.0 APG) was set to break out before suffering a broken thumb during Session 3, and his renewed health in North Augusta will play a big factor in Pulley’s Peach Jam chances. Jones (ESPN 2018 No. 54) put up modest numbers a year ago, but they don’t come close to painting the whole picture of just how much his unselfish attitude and leadership help this team. Sophomore Gabe Kalscheur (7.9 PPG) is more than capable of scoring in bunches, and he will be expected to improve on his 37.3 field-goal percentage in early July. Junior Theo John (ESPN 4-Star), a veteran in 2015,

BRAD DAVISON 17.0 PPG 4.5 RPG 4.3 APG

is a force under the basket, using 6-foot-8 frame and great instincts to force guards to think twice before entering the paint. He and sophomore forward Daniel Oturu (4.2 PPG, 6.2 RPG) form one of the most underrated frontcourts on the circuit, but the Panthers are thin in the middle. The Panthers are forced to play small if John or Oturu gets injured or into foul trouble, something that could spell disaster in pool play Swingman Isaac Johnson is the glue of this bunch. He is relentless on defense and is efficiently on offense, chipping in 7.3 points per game while shooting 53.8 percent from the floor. Johnson hasn’t necessarily needed to score a ton of points with Trent and Davison on the roster. However, he can fill it up the scoring column in a hurry if the

THEO JOHN 6.4 PPG 54.8 FG% 5.2 RPG

situation calls for it. Johnson hasn’t been heavily recruited but has a chance to make a major statement with his play in July. Ultimately, Howard Pulley is in this position for three reasons: defense, discipline and coaching. Harris may be the best coach on the circuit, and success for this cohesive unit stems from its defense. Watching the Panthers play team defense is a thing of beauty, and it has allowed them to compete with the best teams in the country. We don’t see anything changing at the Peach Jam, as the Panthers are sure-fire title contenders. Their biggest threat in Pool D has to be MOKAN, which boasts two stars (Porter and Young) as well as terrific supporting players (Carte’ere Gordon and Bryan Trimble), and will be a tough out. In addition Pulley will face Team Takeover and Expressions, two squads that have at times looked dominant this season. Though they weren’t necessarily rewarded after a stellar regular season, Pulley should still be favored to advance out of that group.

RECORD: 13-3

FINISH: 2ND DIVISION D

MOKAN ELITE

elcome to the MOKAN Elite preview, where we do not have enough words to explain the brilliance of their dynamic duo: Michael Porter Jr. (ESPN 2017 No. 3) and Trae Young (ESPN 2017 No. 21). The two combine to average 44.1 points per game, leading an otherwise balanced MOKAN rotation filled with players who understand and embrace their roles. MOKAN had long been considered a contender

before finishing this season with a 13-3 overall record, and

See roster on page 147 everything they did during the regular season cemented that

notion. The stats are nice and the mixtapes are entertaining, but you can be assured that MOKAN has their sights set on one prize; Peach Jam gold. The 6-foot-9 Porter is one of the best high school-aged players in the world and has posted phenomenal numbers this season (22.8 PPG, 10.9 RPG) playing with Young, one of the top 17U floor generals. Young (21.3 PPG, 7.1 APG, 3.7 RPG) has been extraordinary operating the point for MOKAN

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TRAE YOUNG 21.3 PPG 3.4 RPG 7.1 APG highlighted by his triple-double against Team United - the only one recorded during this season. Both Young and Porter earned 1st Team All-EYBL honors during the 16 game regular season, and both are instant contenders for the same award at Peach Jam. Porter is a scout’s dream, pairing elite athleticism with perfect fundamentals while being able to impact a game without having a play called for him. Basically, the opposition will be forced to pick their poison, as it’s been proven impossible to contain both. A pairing of such prolific players rarely happens in the EYBL, so take opportunity you can get to watch MOKAN run in July. Head coach Rodney Perry and his disciplined crew don’t just win, they dominate. MOKAN averaged 83.1 points in 16 games, four more than the next closest squad (Cal Supreme: 79.1), and they only allow just 65.8 points per game in the same stretch to produce by far the biggest point differential on the circuit (17.3). Carte’Are Gordon (ESPN 2018 No. 24) is an absolute monster physically at 6-foot-8,

MICHAEL PORTER JR 22.8 PPG 10.9 RPG 2.0 APG

250 pounds, and his presence down low has made dividends for MOKAN. Gordon (10.3 PPG, 6.2 RPG), who recently earned a spot on the USA Basketball men’s U17 squad, works alongside three-year EYBL veteran Derrick Walker (6.1 PPG, 4.0 RPG) and Jontay Porter (5.3 PPG, 3.7 RPG), younger brother of Michael. Walker and Porter are the perfect role players, committed the art of frontcourt dirty work. Combo guard Bryan Trimble Jr., who recently committed to Florida State, is forced off the ball by Young, but his defense and understanding of the system is invaluable. Trimble is another who embraces his assignment as a role player, and there’s no reason to think he won’t continue his steady play in North Augusta. Keep an eye on Xavier commit Jared Ridder

CARTE’ARE GORDON 10.3 PPG 6.2 RPG 61.3 FG%

(7.4 PPG), whose likely to sneak up on teams at Peach Jam. The 6-foot-7 swingman gives MOKAN another weapon that can stretch the floor. Overall, MOKAN boasts not only two of the best playmakers in the country but also a deep rotation that is full of talent, versatility and Peach Jam experience. Pool D features another of the circuit’s dominant squads in Howard Pulley, and from the Panthers, MOKAN is considered a favorite to advance out of pool play. They match up favorably with nearly every team, and their balance and experience should help them in close games. If Porter and Young are on the same wavelength and shredding defenses - as they are apt to do - and the team get helps from any of their stud supporting players, MOKAN is a favorite to win it all. However, if one of the stars struggle and the squad runs into an opponent with great size, MOKAN could exit early. Anything short of a bracket play run would be considered a drastic disappointment for this crew.

RECORD: 14-2

FINISH: 2ND DIVISION A

TEAM TAKEOVER

year after coming within a few possessions of playing for the Peach Jam championship, Team Takeover is back in the field as a strong contender - and they’re as deep as ever. Finishing the regular season 10-6, this group struggled a bit with consistency throughout the year. However, they are playing their best at the perfect time and are a major threat to every team in Pool D. Takeover brings experience, balance and depth,

which could be the ingredients needed in a championship

winning in July, and his current rotation has all the pieces to make a run. Takeover brings a disciplined, focused group to Peach Jam, and the players will not be rattled by much as they look to advance out of pool play for the second straight year. Diminutive point guard and Miami commit Chris Lykes (ESPN 2017 No. 46) is an assassin who is not to be taken recipe. Head coach and director lightly. The 5-foot-7 Lykes is lightning-quick and seems to Keith Stevens has a knack for

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CHRIS LYKES 19.9 PPG 2.3 RPG 2.8 APG know where he wants to get to on the floor two plays ahead of anyone else. He operates with tremendous pacing, utilizing excellent change of direction while keeping the ball on a string. Lykes (19.9 PPG) is an All-EYBL performer who loves the spotlight and is also one of the best free-throw shooters on the circuit, which could come in handy in late-game situations. Starring alongside Lykes is wing DJ Harvey (11.1 PPG, 6.7 RPG), a ridiculously athletic forward who brings a winning attitude from last season’s team. This DeMatha (Maryland) product can be too passive on the offensive end at times and must overcome his tendency to disappear for stretches, however, he seems primed for a monster week in North Augusta. Harvey (ESPN 2017 No. 36) gained valuable Peach Jam experience last season, making him an asset and leader for teammates who are debuting this year at North Augusta. One thing is certain: this team will go as far as these two players take it. Lykes is an All-EYBL performer and loves the spotlight,

DJ HARVEY 11.1 PPG PPG 6.7 RPG 2.1 APG

Takeover goes much deeper than its top two, combining a variety of talented prospects across a 10-man rotation. Junior big man Luka Garza (ESPN 4-Star), who has surprised with his offensive abilities and rebounding skills. Garza (11.1 PPG,5.7 RPG) uses an array of post moves to create space near the hoop and can knocking down the occasional 3-pointer. With his ability to see the floor and facilitate, guard and Pittsburgh commit Aaron Thompson (ESPN 2017 No. 93) complements to Lykes in the backcourt. Thompson, an EYBL veteran, was also a key contributor on last year’s Peach Jam team. Ryan Allen is a solid perimeter player but must improve on his 3-point shooting (25.7 percent). Allen

LUKE GARZA 11.1 PPG 56.9 FG% 5.7 RPG

along with Louisiana Tech commit Anthony Duruji, Eddie Scott, Chyree Walker and Myles Douglas combine to average 24 points per game, and one or more of these role players must step up their production for Takeover to make a run. Takeover shoots the ball well inside the 3-point arc and doesn’t force a lot offensively. Thier dynamic backcourt averages five fewer turnovers per game than opponents and take - and make - their free throws, an asset that should help in close games. With its experience, offensive firepower and depth, this team could make an even deeper run than a year ago. They drew Pool D, which is strong throughout, especially at the top. Although teams like Pulley and MOKAN loom large, Takeover’s talent and depth is enough to compete with anyone in the pool. A showdown between Harvey/Lykes and Porter/ Young is popcorn-worthy.

RECORD: 9-7

FINISH: 2ND DIVISION C

EXPRESSIONS

xpressions Elite struggled last season with a very young lineup, but a year later, those pains are paying dividends. Led by a quartet of juniors averaging 53.4 points per game, Expressions fought their way to a 9-7 regular season record. They rely heavily on Nick Richards (11.9 PPG), Kimani Lawrence (15.7), Jermaine Samuels (13.1) and Tremont Waters (12.7) for scoring, as the remaining seven

rotation players average only 21.5 points per game. The

See roster on page 141 team won and lost a few close games, but are battle-tested

with four wins over Peach Jam qualifiers. They are one of five teams boasting rosters with a league-best four players ranked in ESPN’s 2017 Top 60. Point guard Tremont Waters is a gifted shooter and having him catch fire from the floor would do wonders for Expressions’ chances in July. He hasn’t been as consistent as his pure stroke should allow him to be, but 16 games is a small sample size. Waters (ESPN 2017 No. 31) has the type of quick

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NICK RICHARDS 11.9 PPG 58.0 FG% 8.7 RPG trigger and release that makes him a threat to get hot at the drop of a hat - something he did often during his 201516 campaign at South Kent, Connecticut. Samuels (ESPN 2017 No. 58) and Lawrence (ESPN 2017 No. 59) formulate one of the best wing duos in the league, and their EYBL experience should make a huge difference. Both are extremely versatile twoway players, and their oncourt chemistry is better than most. Samuels has a powerful build that allows him to abuse smaller wings and guards on offense and is quick enough to blow past bigger players tasked with staying in front of him. He’s also a plus-rebounder (6.2 RPG) and will need to play big in a pool stocked with talented bigs. Lawrence could easily be the No. 1 offensive option for most teams on the circuit. He makes plays without having his number called and is very active on the offensive glass (2.3 ORPG). Is he a guard? Is he a forward? It doesn’t matter what you call him, Lawrence is a player - and an All-Peach Jam contender.

KIMANI LAWRENCE JERMAINE SAMUELS 15.7 PPG 13.1 PPG 5.5 RPG 6.2 RPG 45.2 3PT% 1.8 APG

Lawrence is 6-foot-7 and Samuels is 6-foot-6, giving Expressions great size in the backcourt and helping the team overcome the challenges of playing small on defense as it has limited opponents to 43.7 percent shooting from the floor. While Waters, Samuels and Lawrence are certainly capable of scoring from the perimeter, they would be most wise to filter the offense through junior big man Nick Richards. A star for New Jersey’s Patrick School, Richards (ESPN 2017 No. 8) gives Expressions a dominant, physical presence under the basket that only a few other teams in the field can boast. Richards is great at using his body to gain position to receive the ball and utilizes terrific footwork on both ends to post

8.7 rebounds per game. He was a bit underutilized offensively during the regular season, so if he becomes more of a factor in the offensive game plan, Expressions will be in very good shape. They don’t have a ton of options after their strong first four, but every other team in the tournament will have a hard time matching up with Waters, Lawrence, Samuels and Richards. That alone should give Expressions the opportunity to compete with anyone in their pool, and if Waters can find his stroke, the team could be a bracket-play contender. However, injuries, foul trouble or slump to any, some or all four could spell disaster, so health is crucial for their early July hopes. They will have their work cut out for them in Pool D, as they will face off against two of the dominant programs in the league in Howard Pulley and MOKAN. Though they finished just two games over .500, it would be a mistake not to consider Expressions a contender in North Augusta.

FINISH: WILD CARD DIVISION A

RECORD: 8-8

KING JAMES

ing James rallied late during the fourth session in 2016, and it paid off in a big way - resulting in their second straight Peach Jam berth. Markell Johnson and Kyle Young made a tremendous inside-outside duo for head coach Leon Ellison. They both shot 49 percent from the floor, with the versatile Young knocking down 25 triples. At 45.8 percent from the floor, King James’ field goal percentage left a bit to be

desired, but they made up for it with above-average defense.

into bracket play behind Xavier Simpson. In 2016, they will embrace an underdog role. That being said, this is the EYBL. That means anyone can beat anyone, and King James has more than enough talent to compete in Pool D. If you noticed, the entire first paragraph was in the past tense. That’s because Johnson - their do-it-all star - will no longer be participating Last year, King James entered as with this crew after recently true contenders and advanced reclassifying to the 2016 class

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MARKELL JOHNSON

18.0 PPG 5.9 RPG 4.9 APG

and committing to Mark Gottfried and North Carolina State. Johnson (ESPN 2016 No. 48) was one of the most complete guards on the circuit (18.2 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 4.9 APG, 2.2 SPG), and if he would have competed in all 12 games, King James would have likely made the Peach Jam as a divisional qualifier. Jayvon Graves, a product of St. Vincent-St. Mary in Akron, Ohio, stepped up his game during the second half of the season - and will need to be even bigger in July. A couple of huge performances lifted Graves’ average to 11.8 points per game, and if he continues to stay hot, King James will have a bona fide second scorer in their rotation. Every year, a player or two ceases a huge opportunity and lifts their stock on the national level. Graves has a golden opportunity in front of him, now he needs to convert. Jonathan Williams drilled 31 three-pointers during the season, so his continued production should help keep teams honest in pool play. This backcourt will be thin, so improved production will be needed

KYLE YOUNG 17.1 PPG 8.5 RPG 1.6 APG

by their entire rotation. Jarius Ward (7.0 PPG) also figures to see increased minutes in the wake of Johnson’s departure. In the frontcourt, Young (ESPN 2017 No. 85) has stepped up to become one of the most consistently productive big men on the circuit. While capable of facing up defenders to shoot, Young (17.1 PPG, 8.5 RPG) is most effective in the post, where he uses solid footwork and positioning to create space, which made him the perfect complement to Johnson’s strong perimeter skills. Already holding offers from several high-major schools, Young has a chance to continue his rise in the 2017 class. Not many players offer the versatility that Young brings to the table, and he’ll need to be better than ever in early July. As dominant as Young

JAYVON GRAVES 11.8 PPG 3.7 RPG 2.2 APG

can be, however, King James doesn’t have much in the way of support behind their stud center. Kevin Calhoun has provided solid minutes but hasn’t rebounded at the level he showed during the high school season. He will need to really step up as a rebounder and scorer if Young is being constantly doubled. 6-foot7 reserve Miryne Thomas has been a reliable defender throughout the regular season, and he figures to be part of the rotation in North Augusta. King James lacks the depth to compete with the league’s best, but with Young playing at his highest level and Graves emerging, this squad can score an upset or two in pool play. They don’t do anything exceptionally well and don’t have any glaring weaknesses, but they face a tall task in their pool. The month off between events will help solidify their new Peach Jam rotation. Will they be favorites? Definitely not, but they are here for a reason and will be ready to make some noise.

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RECORD: 7-9

FINISH: WILD CARD DIVISION C

LV PROSPECTS

he Prospects debuted last season and posted with a 12-5 record while sporting one of the youngest lineups in the league. They regressed a bit this year, stumbling to a 7-9 record in a hotly contested Division C as they struggled to replace reclassified sharpshooter Markus Howard. The team’s lack of depth also contributed to its less-thandesired finish and may have been a reason the Prospects could not find any consistency

as they failed to win more than two straight games throughout

See roster on page 145 all season. However, this is a classic case of a team being

more talented than its record indicates, and we expect a strong showing from them in North Augusta. While their win over Team Penny in Brooklyn seems like ages ago, it still proves that the Prospects can beat the league’s best. Three veterans of the 2015 roster - Charles O’Bannon Jr., Troy Brown Jr. and O’Shae Brissett - account for 68 percent of the scoring and 62 percent of the rebounding in a 9-man lineup. O’Bannon

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TROY BROWN JR 15.9 PPG 8.8 RPG 2.9 APG (ESPN 2017 No. 23) and Brown (ESPN 2017 No. 28), who each stand 6-foot-6, are two of the most lethal playmakers in the country. They complement each other’s games perfectly, stirring up some of the best chemistry on the circuit while improving the play of their teammates. O’Bannon is the better shooter, knocking down 52 three-pointers - more than half of the team’s total. Brown will also be representing Team USA this summer on a stacked team. Marcus Shaver (6.5 PPG) and Chris Hawkins (4.9 PPG) both see minutes in the backcourt but must improve their efficiency from the floor. The Prospects depend on swingman Brissett for scoring, defense and rebounding, but the Findlay Prep junior is forced to play bigger in a somewhat small rotation. Hailing from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, Brissett (ESPN 2017 No. 80) averaged 13.3 points and 6.8 rebounds per game during the regular season. The other big is KJ Hymes, a 6-foot-10 sophomore who has yet to find his comfort level in EYBL. The month off should be extremely helpful for Hymes

CHARLES O’BANNON JR O’SHAE BRISSETT

20.6 PPG 40.9 3FG% 4.9 RPG

(ESPN 2018 No. 55), who will undoubtedly have some challenges on his hands from opposing frontcourts. He is ranked high for a reason, and the Prospects are hoping he taps into some more of his potential in North Augusta. The Prospects desperately need him to hang with the likes of big men Nick Richards, Kyle Young and Theo John in pool play. How competitive is the NIKE EYBL? The Prospects provide a possible answer. This team with four players ranked in the top 100 finished with a sub-.500 record in the regular season due to a number of factors. Statistically, the Prospects are challenged. They do not shoot the ball well, proven by their field goal percentage (40.8) being 4.5 points below their opposition. They get outrebounded

13.3 PPG 6.8 RPG 1.0 SPG

by nearly seven per game, and average fewer assists, blocks and steals than their opponents. They also have difficulty closing out games, as the Prospects have allowed 125 more points in the second half than the first. There is a silver lining for head coach Derek Thomas and company. Peach Jam pool play is only five games, so if their trio catches fire, the Prospects have more than enough talent to propel past pool play. O’Bannon and Brown will be a stiff competition for every backcourt they face, meaning the Prospects are not to be slept on. The Prospects certainly received a tough draw being in the stacked Pool D, which includes two of the best squads in the country in Howard Pulley and MOKAN. Their biggest drawback may take place before Peach Jam, as Brown and O’Bannon both suited up for Team USA in June. There is no rest for the weary, and you can be certain that the Prospects won’t use fatigue as an excuse if they are unsuccessful in North Augusta.

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Q&A

HAMIER WRIGHT ALBANTY CITY ROCKS

You played 16U EYBL last year. What is the biggest difference between 16U & 17U? I would say the physicality of the game and just the feel of each game is more intense Hardest part about playing in the EYBL? Having to play your best basketball each game What’s it like to watch Anthony Gaines recruitment take off? Did you always know he was a star player? I’m really happy for AG

help me best get to the highest level

it’s well deserved and I know he’s put in a lot of work to get where he’s gotten

What do you think will be the most difficult aspect of Peach Jam? We play in arguably the most difficult division in EYBL so it’s definitely gonna be having to compete every game and every play

Who do you look up Do you take pride to on the court and in representing new off the court? york? I would have to say Yea it’s great having Paul George is a person NY on my jersey I really look up to What are you Where do you see looking for at the yourself in 5 years? next level? Playing in the NBA Just a great fit that will

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Q&A COLE SWIDER BABC You play for BABC, one of the most historic programs in the world. What’s that like? How was playing with BABC impacted your career? It’s been great, playing for Leo Papile one of the greatest coaches of all time has really helped me grow as a player and a person. It’s impacted my career by making me commit to defense and always value possessions. What do you do best right now in your game? The best part of my game right now is probably shooting. Is there anything you’re working on in particular in your game? I have been working on my quickness and defense particularly as of late, also being able to create separation What have you learned

How excited are you for Peach Jam? What are you doing to prepare? I am very excited for peach jam, I’ve been wanting to play in it since I was in 8th grade, I am working out with my high school coach as well as my team to prepare for the tough schedule. from Leo Papile? Leo has taught me that you do not have to be the most talented to win, it’s all about effort and execution. That’s why BABC has always been successful because of the way we play and how hard we play. How’s your time been in the NEPSAC with St. Andrew’s? It has gone really well, playing for coach Hart, it has been a great experience, playing against older guys every night was difficult at first but I think I adjusted well.

Who are your role models/ who do you look up to? I look up to my dad, he works really hard and does not stop doing something until it is perfect, he played Division 1 basketball so he knows what it takes to help me get where I want to be. Any specific goals for the summer? To keep on getting better , hopefully make a run in peach jam and win a national championship!

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Q&A

MARCOS SANTOS-SILVA BABC How do you feel about how the spring went for you personally and for your squad (BABC)? It went good. I think people are starting to know who I am now and the spring was great for my team. We definitely shocked some people by making Peach Jam this year. What was the secret to your success as a team and they keys to you guys making it back despite losing some veterans from last year? We just gave 100 percent every single game. We knew our team didn’t have anyone that is highly ranked and people doubted us, but we proved that we can play with any of the top teams in EYBL. Describe playing in the trademark press and how that affects the way you play on both ends of the floor. How do you feel that unique defense gives you an edge? Playing in the press is great because we make the other teams play at our speed and it helps get our transition going. It also gives us an edge because some teams aren’t ready for the press at the beginning of the game so it throws them off. What has been the biggest factor that has contributed to your breaking out and dominating this season? I just give it my all every game and I like to do the little things that impact the game like rebounding and diving for loose balls. I love to do the dirty work that nobody else likes to do.

aren’t working on your game? Hang out with my family and friends. I am a big family person. What’s something most people don’t know about you? I love to cook. French toast, bacon and eggs, and anything that has to do with breakfast is my favorite. Describe your game in one word. Physical.

Anything specific you have done in your training that has helped you on the offensive end? I have been working on my faceup and other post moves. Also, I have worked a lot on my jumper and conditioning. How does playing for a EYBL legend (Leo Papile) give you a leg up and help with your overall development? It’s great playing with Leo. He makes the game easy. Which schools have been coming at you hardest? What are you looking for in a program? Boston College, VCU and DePaul have been coming at me hardest, and I’m looking for a program that will make me a better person and basketball player/ Education is the most important part.

NB: What’s going to have to happen for BABC to advance deep at Peach Jam and win it all? We gotta play hard on offense and defense. We do that and I believe we will win Peach Jam. NB: How has the balance you guys have and spreading the wealth been so effective? Our strategy is working because when we pass the ball around, the defense gets tired and starts messing up and we get open looks. Plus this wears out the defense and they don’t want to be physical with me the whole game so that’s when I get my easy buckets. If you could compare yourself to one NBA player, who would it be? Zach Randolph. What message do you have for college coaches about the type of player you are? I’m a hard worker that will do anything that needs to be done on and off the court. I am going to give it my all, whether it is in practice or a game.

What are you doing when you

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106

Q&A

DANILO DJURICIC CIA BOUNCE

Are you happy with where you are at this far into the EYBL season? Yes I am happy as I feel I am furthering my development as an overall player playing against bigger, stronger, faster guys. The EYBL is a different league, everyone in this league is good, and you have to come to play each and every session. I am also happy with my team’s success so far this EYBL season as we had started off slow, and progressed and gelled together as a unit through each session. How do you feel representing your home country by playing for CIA Bounce? It is truly an honour, CIA Bounce has a great history in this league with tons of great Canadian players who have since moved on to college, or the pros. Being the younger guys it is now our turn and we look to carry on the tradition and history of the success of CIA Bounce and Canadians of the past in the EYBL. What’s the most difficult aspect of playing as an underclassman for the EYBL? The most difficult aspect of playing as an underclassman in the EYBL is the adjustments you must make. This is the top league, and the level of physicality and speed of play is much different than any other AAU ball. You must be ready to play hard as each and every game counts. Playing against older, stronger, bigger guys is a great experience for next year in the EYBL, as well as great for my development as a player.

Peach Jam in July? To do well at Peach Jam i feel our team needs to just keep it rolling, we have really come together and bought in to a team concept, we just need to feed off our past wins, and use recent losses as fuel to make a run for the title this year. For myself I feel I just need to keep working hard, and do whatever my team needs me to do in order to win.

What are the biggest factors that go into choosing which college you will play for? The biggest factors that will go into my college decision will be the school’s academic/athletic values and ethics, the relationship built with the coaching staff and the right feel for the school as it will be my home for the next four years of my life. Which player are you closest to in the EYBL? How does he help you develop as a player? I’m not close with any specific player on other teams in the EYBL, but I’m definitely real close with all my teammates. I would say the specific teammate that helps me develop the most as a player is Simi Shittu. We both push each other in practice at all times to be the best we can be, we have been on the same team for years now, and we have a great relationship together. What are you going to work on for

If you could play against one player 1-1 who would you chose and why? I would play against Peja Stojakovic, because that is who I try and model my game after, being a tall, versatile player. What age did you start playing basketball? DId you play any other sports growing up? I started playing basketball when i was 10 years old. Soccer was my first sport, until I gave basketball a try being tall, and then I ended up just sticking with basketball. I can thank soccer for good footwork, as well as mobility. What does Canada have that America doesn’t? Important things that Canada has that America doesn’t is free healthcare, as well as maple syrup, which is vital for pancakes or waffles What’s your favorite subject in school? Unfortunately, home time or lunch are not subjects in school so those are sadly out of the question... I’d have to say English and Math.

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107

Q&A

EMMITT WILLIAMS E1T1 UNITED

You’re playing in the EYBL as an underclassmen, rare for big men. Has it been everything you expected? It’s been everything I expected, it’s like a little difference, but almost the same as last year, same people and stuff. Nothing new. What’s it like running for E1T1? Is it a real family mindset? It definitely runs as a family mindset. Off the court we still play and mess around with each other so we’re like a real family and real brothers. How fun is it to run next to Kevin Knox? He has to make your life easier. Playing with Kevin Knox is playing with the next Kevin Durant. I love playing with each and every player on our team. Kevin Knox is one of our star players but it’s fun playing with every single player on our team. What do you do best right

high school. Any hobbies outside of basketball? Do I have any hobbies? Good question (laughs). Going back home to see my brothers and sisters. Spending time with family is a hobby.

now on the court and what are you working on the most? Talking to all my teammates, telling everybody what’s going on. Echo my voice so everyone can hear, good supporter on the bench. Good overall player. Working on everything, from a shot, from a 1 to a 5 cause you never know what you’re gonna be. How is High School basketball difference than EYBL? High school basketball is totally different because EYB has a shot clock and you’re also playing with people you’ve known longer than

How has IMG Academy treated you so far? IMG Academy is one of the best high schools in the world that I am fortunate enough to go to. If I had to rank the school from 1-10 it would be a 20. Any goals for the Peach Jam? What’s that preparation like for you? My goals for peach jam is to win it all, just to show everyone who E1T1 is. If you could play any player (current or past) 1-1 who would it be and why? Marvin Bagley show him who he really is.

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KIMANI LAWRENCE EXPRESSIONS ELITE

It’s your second year in the EYBL, was it everything you’d hoped it be? Yeah it’s been a good experience, it’s been a lot of fun playing with this group of guys and also been fun playing at such a high level, wish we could’ve won a few more of those close games but other than that it’s been everything I hoped it to be

What do you do best? The best thing I do is getting to the rim off of the dribble

this year

What’s it like playing for Expressions Elite? What has the program How was your done for you? preparation for the It’s like playing with EYBL different from family, a couple of the this year to last? There’s a lot of big guards guys there been with me and the program like me in the EYBL so since 8th grade, and the to separate myself from program has taken my them I studied the game more and it helped me to game to the next level, they really helped me be understand the game develop my skill set and and it make it easier for get me exposure a lot of myself, which ultimately prepared me for the EYBL players don’t get

How fun is it to play alongside Nick Richards, Jermaine Samuels and Tremont Waters? Everyone makes each other better, so it opens up the floor and makes the game easier What’s it like playing in the NEPSAC? Are you enjoying your time at New Hampton? It’s really competitive, between the games, practices and open gyms it’s all about competing, it really helped me get better and play harder

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Q&A RJ NEMBHARD HOUSTON HOOPS

Describe the EYBL in as few of words as possible: A tough,competitive, and fun experience

before the game, but the closer to tip-off I like to absorb the atmosphere in the gym and get a prayer in before playing

What has your experience with Houston Hoops been like? Was the second year in the EYBL everything you expected? It’s been a great experience w/ this team. Being able to play w/ a highly talented group of teammates and qualifying for peach was all expected

Who are your favorite artists to listen to? Lil Uzi, 21 Savage, maybe some Drake but mostly underground rappers lol. They get you the most hype. And old Lil Wayne

Jarred Vanderbilt and Billy Preston are two of the top 10 big men, what’s it like playing alongside them? Can never complain when you have 2 top 10 forwards on your side. Playing alongside them is a fun experience and we plan on playing up to our capability this upcoming Peach What’s the biggest difference when it comes to high school basketball and Nike EYBL basketball? Definitely the speed and physicality of the game. The intensity is much higher Who is your biggest inspiration on and off the basketball court?

My dad for sure When choosing which college you will attend, what’re the biggest factors you put into consideration? First and foremost the quality of education, and then just finding the right situation where I’ll be able to play as a Freshman. If you weren’t playing basketball, where would you be? Somewhere around the game. Love it too much. Maybe like a physical trainer or something like that Do you have any pre-game rituals (listening to music, etc.)? Gotta have the tunes going a while

What have you been working on most in regards to your game prior to Peach Jam? Keeping my handles and shot crisp since I’m a guard along with my strength, cardio, and quickness If you could eat dinner with one person (dead or alive) who would it be and why? My man Kobe. That’s my fav player ever Any big goals for the rest of the summer or through the school year? Win Peach, finish this last summer w/ a bang, chose the best college for me, and lead my team to State in high school What’s something people would be surprised to know about you? I can draw pretty good (haha)

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Q&A BRAD DAVISON HOWARD PULLEY

Describe the EYBL in as few of words as possible. The most Elite basketball league that pushes you and challenges you to be your best

growing up and still play football and golf Your team has been one of the best on the circuit all season, what is it going to take for you guys to win it all at Peach Jam? The biggest thing for our team is just to move the ball and trust each other. We aren’t the biggest or most athletic team so we are going to have to do the little things to win games.

What’s it like playing under Antwan Harris? What has he done to help you develop as a basketball player? It has been a great experience! He pushes us every game and practice and gets us ready for the next level How has recruitment been going? What’re the biggest factors that go into you choosing which college you will attend? The main thing I’m looking for is the balance between academics and basketball. Basketball wise the most important things to me are my relationship with the coaching staff and how I fit in with the players that are already there What are some things you have learned playing alongside Gary Trent Jr.? I think the biggest thing I have learned from him is his mindset. If you want to be a great scorer like him you need to be aggressive at all times. What is your biggest strength as a player? I would say my biggest strength

so far this summer is my 3 point shooting because I have put a lot of time in with my Paps trying to become more consistent and it has paid off What’s the best basketball advice you’ve ever been given? My dad gave me the best advice when he tells me to trust my preparation and trust my shot. If you put the time in you should be able to trust your shot and just play your game. You just prepare yourself for success by getting shots up by yourself. What age did you start playing basketball- did you play any other sports growing up? I have been in a basketball gym ever since I remember because both my sisters play and my parents coached. I played baseball

What’s something people may be surprised to know about you? Something people may not know about me is that my favorite thing to do is fish and my family has a cabin on the border of Canada and Rainy Lake If you could play 1-1 with any basketball player who would it be and why? Well I think I have to say Michael Jordan because there is nothing better than playing against the best What is your greatest accomplishment in life thus far (can be basketball or otherwise) I would say the thing I am most proud of is maintaining my 4.0 GPA throughout this crazy high school experience

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Q&A ISAAC JOHNSON HOWARD PULLEY

How are you feeling with how the EYBL regular season went and with your progress as a player? The regular season was amazing; a lot of competition and fun games. We lost a few players which caused us to lose 2 games but with everybody healthy I feel we are the best team in the league and we have proven that. What will it take for you guys to win Peach Jam? We need to stay healthy and stay together. We know it’s gonna be a long week filled with tough games and a lot of adversity. Any area of your game where you feel you have really made a lot of development? Really just in my decision-making and defense. I also learned how to score the ball more consistently and make others better around me. What has been the biggest key to Pulleys success, as far as everyone kind of coming together and knowing their role? How did that help you guys still win without Tre? Our biggest thing is staying together. As long as we stay together and know our roles we can do anything. When Tre and DJ got hurt we just needed people to step up and play big and they did that for us. You have proven yourself as

Any players at the next level or in the pros you study more than others? I don’t really study anybody, I try to be my own kind of player and just stay with the things I do well. Any area you are really working on this summer in terms of skillset? Ball handling, shooting, speed and strength.

a capable scorer. Do you feel confident in your ability to step up even more if Brad or Gary struggle or get injured? Yes i feel I’m very capable to step more if something happens. I’m confident in my coaches to lead us past any problems we see in front of us. What are some of the major differences between EYBL and high school ball? The biggest one is the competition by far! But then you have the speed and intensity, which is on another level. Does that take some adjustment at the beginning of the spring or was it a pretty smooth transition? It took a little bit of an adjustment for the first session but after that it was smooth.

What types of things are you looking for in a team the next level? Teammates and coaches that will push me every day and make me be the best play i can be. If you could get a message to all college coaches about what type of player you are, what would it be? That I am very hard working and I learn very quickly. What’s something a lot of people don’t know about you? Um I golf a lot (haha). Describe the EYBL in a few words Best league in the country. Five years from now, what’s your life like and what are your goals? 5 years from now I see myself in college. I just wanna take basketball as far as i can take it.

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O’SHAE BRISSETT LV PROSPECTS

First off, describe the EYBL in as few of words as possible It’s exciting, unpredictable anyone can be beaten and anyone can make a name for themselves How was the transition for you from Canada to Las Vegas? What’s the biggest differences you’ve noticed? There aren’t really that many differences the passion for basketball and wanting to get better is in Canada as it is in America Findlay Prep has some notable alumni, what does it feel like to be able to play at such a prestige school? It’s an honor knowing that when people talk about the school that my name can come up with a lot of the great players that went through Findlay

what they can’t do. That way everyone can get the touches they deserve What’s the most important things you look for/ consider when choosing which college to attend? I really want the coach to believe and trust in my skills, I don’t want my coach to restrict me on the court. Last year I had a great experience, so I’m looking forward to it again. We have to play together every game, everyone has to be dialed in What is it like playing under Andy Johnson? It’s good, a coach that’s been around winning teams with coach peck so he knows what it takes to win. He’s always pushing for us to be better on and off the court.

Tell me about how your team, The Prospects, gets along both on and off the How does it feel to be court. qualified for Peach Jam? At the start of the year our What’s going to be most important for you and your coach gathered us and assigned roles, no one tries to do team to do well there?

Who has given you the best basketball advice, and what was it? The best advice usually comes from my dad, he’s always pumping me up before games and making me feel better after a loss or a bad game, I don’t remember exactly what he says but it’s always something I really listen to What’s one of your favorite basketball memories/ accomplishments? Being able to come back from a knee injury three years ago and come back better then I was before

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TROY BROWN JR. LV PROSPECTS

Second year in a row you’ve been to Peach Jam, what’s been the biggest factor that has led you and your team to make it these past two years? I would say the leadership on the team and the team chemistry off the court is always good Describe the EYBL in as few of words as possible Competitive What are you trying to improve on as a player before Peach Jam comes around? My defensive intensity

you look up to growing up? Which basketball player do you look up to currently? Growing up I looked up to Julius Irving, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson. Currently I look up to Russell Westbrook, Damian Lillard, and Lebron James

Recruitment is going well! The most important part about college for me will be the player and coach relationship I have with my coach

Do you think you are ready to play at the next level now? Why or why not? Who is the toughest player Yes, because of my maturity and you’ve ever had to go against? Who’s the toughest everything that I can bring to a team. But I still feel I have a lot coach you’ve had to play of growth to do! for? Toughest player I would say Jaylen Brown, toughest coach I would say Dedan Thomas How is recruitment going so far? What’s most important to you in deciding where you will go to college?

What’s your favorite part about playing for the EYBL? I like that all the team play at high levels! And every game is a good game

What’s been your biggest accomplishment thus far regarding basketball? Coming 2nd in AAU nationals my 7th year You’re playing alongside Charles O’Bannon, tell me a little bit about what that’s like and how he’s helped you develop as a player. He’s helped me understand how to play with a good shooter, and where the open spots are to make passes and he’s also helped my confidence a lot as a player! What’s the best part of living in Las Vegas? Being surrounded by so many different people from different backgrounds

Top 3 favorite music artists? Which basketball player did J Cole, Drake, Logic

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Q&A KJ HYMES

LV PROSPECTS How are you feeling now that the regular season is over for EYBL and you guys snagged an at large bid for PJ? I feel that the regular season has prepared us to play in Peach Jam. We can really make a splash and possibly win the whole thing in my opinion. How do you feel playing in such a competitive league has helped you as a player? I love playing against good competition because I can pick up what other players do well and add it to my own arsenal. Which skills specifically have you added or improved this spring? I’ve been getting stronger and have developed more post moves. Because I have really been playing out of position; my natural position is a 3-4. How do you think playing that way will help you at the next level? It will help me because I would be able to attack defense in multiple ways and always be a threat on the court. Do you think you guys surprised some people making Peach Jam? We surprised ourselves after that last session (haha). But in all seriousness we did, a lot of the coaches I have

you? Well my dad played D1 basketball and was actually drafted by the Pacers, but got diagnosed with cancer in the preseason of his rookie year. I, at a young age, decided I wanted to succeed where he didn’t with his help.

talked to recently were surprised when I told them about it.

How has having a dad who was so talented and knows the game so well helped you most in knowing just how hard you have to work? Well he pushes me. Even though I don’t like him all the time because of it, he knows what it takes to make it so I listen.

How is your recruitment going? What are you looking for in a program at the next level? I’m looking for a program where I can make an impact my freshman year, and where I have a great relationship with the coaching staff before I go in.

How does playing with guys like Troy and Charles make the game easier for you, and vice versa? We all work for each other nothing is really forced, and that is hard to find, especially with other high profile players

When you aren’t working on your game in some way, how do you relax and what do you like to do? I usually just kick back and play some NBA 2K with my friends and stay at the house. I don’t get much time to be at home, so when the opportunity comes up, I take it.

Thought at all about a possible career after ball? Yeah, if I don’t make it to the NBA,ill think ill try to be a firefighter

When did you realize you wanted to concentrate on ball and see how far it could take

Describe the EYBL and Peach Jam in a few sentences. The EYBL is the best high school talent in the world, and I’m blessed enough to be able to be apart of it. Peach Jam (from what I’ve heard) is gonna be the best experience I’ve had in my career.

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Q&A

BRIAN “TUGS” BOWEN MEANSTREETS

Was the 17U EYBL everything you thought it would be? What’s been the toughest part? Oh yeah, I knew that coming to play in the EYBL would be the best thing for me. Playing against the best guys in the country is key for me to get better. Just keeping my composure is the main thing. Sometimes guys will try to get at you, but you have to learn to stay calm or you’ll be in trouble quickly. How is the chemistry with your teammates? Certainly have some talent surrounding you. When we first practiced together we all clicked greatly on and off the court. That helped my make my decision to play with them. What would you say is the biggest difference between EYBL and high

Do you enjoy the recruiting process? Yeah, it’s really heavy right now, but I’m enjoying the process and having fun with it.

school at La Lumiere? Honestly, there really is no difference between the two, which is another reason why I was attracted to playing in the EYBL. Because every game that you play is going to be tough, just like at Lu Lumiere. How do you deal with the travel that accompanies being a top recruit? At times it can get tiring, but it’s okay because I’m having a lot of fun with it. I enjoy experiencing different places.

Anything surprise you during the process? Well no big surprises, but whenever a school offers me or starts recruiting me, it’s truly a blessing and an honor. Can’t beat free school. Any idea what you want to study in college? No doubt! I want to study business management. How did you get the nickname ‘Tugs’? When I was a baby, I would always tug into the doctor’s hair really hard and hold her hair tight. She said I was strong like a little tugboat and then my parents just shortened that to ‘Tugs.’

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Q&A ISAIAH LIVERS MEANSTREETS How are feeling with the regular season over, gearing up for Peach Jam and the rest of summer? I am feeling great about it. We did really well considering it is our first time playing with each other. I can’t wait to show out at Peach Jam. Have there been any surprises about this EYBL season or has it pretty much been what you expected? I expected it to be really competitive, and it has definitely been that. How do you feel your game makes you stand out from other forwards on the circuit? My versatility and my ability to understand the game. I love the game and study it every chance I get. Any college or pro players you study more than others? I watch Kevin Durant and study his moves. With you, Alonzo (Verge), Brian (Bowen) and Nojel (Eastern), MeanStreets has as good a top four as any team in the EYBL. What has helped with the chemistry

What do you feel is the biggest difference between high school ball and AAU? For me, it is the competition. AAU gives you more freedom with playing basketball as well. Was there ever a moment when you realized you could take basketball to the next level, including a free education? Yeah, honestly it was on a random day but I felt that I could do it. you all have, especially since none of you have played together before? Our communication has been huge. We talk on and off the court all the time. What skills are you focusing on improving most this summer? I am really working on my ball handling and guarding the perimeter. Working on moving my feet against guards. What types of training do you do, outside of skill work on the court? I run miles and hills. I have been getting stronger lifting weights, and I do a lot of jump rope.

What’s one thing that most people would be surprised to learn about you? Baseball is my first love, and I played centerfield and pitcher. Who has been your biggest influence on and off the court and why? My father, because he is the one who has pushed me to the point I’m at today. What message do you want to get out to college coaches about the type of player you are? That I will be the most determined and hard working player on the court at all times, and I will get the job done no matter what it takes.

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Q&A

CARTE’ARE GORDON MOKAN ELITE

Describe the EYBL in as few of words as possible The best league in the world

I’ve been playing since i was 9, and watching my older brother Chris Gordon inspired me to start

What do you think it will take for your team to take it all at Peach Jam this year? Great work ethic, and to play unselfish, and play the way we play best- together Tell me what it’s like playing alongside Michael Porter and Trae Young. How do they help you develop as a basketball player? Its fun, they are great players so it’s fun to play with them and learn

Who is your biggest role model on the court as well as off the court? My biggest role model on the court is Julius Randle, and my biggest role model off the court is my big brother How has the EYBL prepared you to play at the college level? Im playing against the best of the best, which i’ll be playing against on the next level

How do you think you compete with other bigs on the circuit? I go at them hard every possession and I play to my strengths

Rodney Perry has coached some great players and teams, what is it like playing under him? He is a great guy on and off the court and he always continues to make me a better player

What are your biggest strengths as a player? Running the floor, post moves, and overall feel for the game

How long have you been playing basketball? What inspired you to start playing?

What are the biggest factors that go into choosing which college you are going to attend? Program education and atmosphere If you could eat dinner with 1 person in the world who would it be and why? Muhammed Ali Who are the three greatest basketball players of all time in your opinion? Micheal Jordan, Kevin Durant, Magic Johnson

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Q&A ZACK DAWSON NIKE SOUTH BEACH

How are you feeling about your spring heading into summer, and how did the EYBL regular season go for you? Spring went pretty good, I was looking to get better and increase my stock and I feel that I’ve accomplished that. For the summer my goal is to continue to get better and become more of a student of the game. My season went well, and I ended up averaging 25 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds per game. What types of things have you been doing to reach those personal goals? I’m doing strength and conditioning like 4 times a week and I’m just working on my game. I’ve been looking at a lot of film trying to study some of the guys that played before me. What separates you from other point guards? I love to play out of the pick and roll and most likely when I play that I make the right play. How has recruitment been going? Pretty good. I have offers from USC, TCU, UCF, FIU, FGCU, Louisville, Arizona, Kansas State, Iowa State, Tennessee Tech, and

Who is your favorite athlete and why? Steph Curry because the way he handles the ball so well and the way he shoots the ball. It makes it so tough to guard him. NB: What has been the biggest benefit of playing in the EYBL compared to other grassroots leagues? Just playing against the best competition out there gets you ready for the next level. Louisiana Tech. What are you looking for in a program? I’m mainly looking at the education, environment, and style of play. Have you thought about a potential major in college, or a career path once you lace them up for the last time? I see myself having my own business or becoming a doctor of some kind. How do you and Chaundee (Brown) feed off of one another on the floor? We both can pass, we can shoot, and we always make the smart plays.

Looking ahead to Peach Jam, what are going to be the keys for South Beach making it out of pool play and making a run at the title? We have to play smart and play as a team. We have a really good group of guys but we will have to do the little things like boxing out, rebounding and putting pressure on the other team all game. Your audience consists of college coaches. Describe your game in a few sentences. Love to play out of the pick and roll. Hard work ethic. Gets guys motivated. Coach on the court. High motor.

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Q&A

JARRETT CULVER NIKE PRO SKILLS

What’s the biggest difference between EYBL ball and other grassroots leagues you have played in the past? The biggest difference is that the EYBL is more intense. The environment and games are much more competitive. There is a lot of pressure every game, and the league has high standards for players on and off the court and the players have to live up to them every day. How has playing against that level of competition made you a better player? It has made me a better player because just knowing you are playing against the best of the best every game means that you have to have to bring your best every game. You can’t take plays off and you have to figure out ways to win. These things also force you to become mentally strong and tough. Which skills have you improved on most this spring? The skill I have improved on most is probably my ball handling because everything is faster in the EYBL and as a guard you have to keep the ball secure going to the lane and against any type of pressure.

get you ready? I always read my bible before the game and then I turn on the music to get me pumped up and get me going. What is something you excel at on the court that gets overlooked? I think my passing ability is underrated.

What do you bring to the table that makes you stand out from other guards? I feel like I have length on most guards and I am a playmaker so I feel I can do a lot as far as making a clutch play. I also feel that I can score the ball well, but there are a ton of great guards on the circuit. What types of qualities are you looking for in a program at the next level? A good coach who produces great players. Also, a winning program that can help me develop right away on and off the court. Do you have a pregame routine you follow, or at least specific music you listen to

Which athlete inspires you the most and why? I love watching Jamal Crawford and Kobe Bryant just because they know how to get buckets! What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you? I played soccer for my high school team (forward), and most people probably think I only play basketball. Once your time playing ball is finally over, have you given any thought to what comes next? Whether it is another career, travel, hobbies, etc? Once it’s over I definitely want to be able to take care of my family. I haven’t thought much about another career but I definitely want to do something in the sports world.

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Q&A

MARCO ANTHONY NIKE PRO SKILLS

How do you feel playing against top competition in the EYBL has helped expedite your improvement as a player? Playing against the top players in the country has helped me realize that I can play at the next level and achieve a lot of success doing it, since pretty much all the players I am going against are going to be my competition at the next level. Which skills have you grown with most since April? I have really improved my handle going against quicker guards. What are you hoping to add to your game this summer? I need to continue working on all things on both sides of the ball, but the main thing will be improving my quickness and explosiveness. What will it take for you guys to advance out of pool play and make a deep run at Peach Jam? Building off coming together like we have been doing. Coming off ending Atlanta with three straight wins has given us a lot of confidence, especially since we beat Howard Pulley. Any player or team you are

especially in Atlanta. How does playing with him help your game and vice versa? It makes everything so much easier; if I’m in trouble all I have to do is throw it up and he’s there. I think I help him by being able to space the floor for him so he can do his thing in the low post.

really hoping to get a shot at in pool play? No sir, I just want to get out and play. Getting a rematch against some of the teams that beat us during the regular season would be nice though. What skills do you bring to Pro Skills that helps you guys win games, compared with other forwards? My ability to score the ball and defend multiple positions. If a smaller guy is on me I can post him up, and if a bigger guy is on me I can blow by him. Which pro players are you watching a lot of right now? Klay Thompson and CJ McCollum. You and Mitchell (Robinson) have been quite the combo,

Aside from playing with Pro Skills this summer, anything else you will be doing to work on your game? My high school coach has the gym and weight room open every day so that really helps. What’s your favorite way to relax off the court? Usually I just go out and eat and chill with my friends when I’m not playing. What sorts of attributes are you looking for in a program at the next level? I am looking for a school where I can come in and play right away. When did you first realize that basketball could open doors for you? People always told me that I could do it but I didn’t truly start believing until I started playing on the circuit and excelling.

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Q&A PAUL ATKINSON NIKE SOUTH BEACH

What influenced your decision to come over to the EYBL from Under Armour? We thought it would be a better thing for me playin the EYBL. It’s just different from UA, the name is just bigger and I like playing all the highly ranked athletes that you don’t always find in other leagues.

knowing how much time and money my parents put into my success and just wanting to return the favor.

What’s the biggest difference between the EYBL and other grassroots leagues? Definitely the big name players and the atmosphere in the EYBL feels more competitive and exciting.

NB: Have you thought about a potential career once basketball is done for you? For college I have been thinking about majoring in engineering or something involving math because I love it and want to continue using it.

Describe playing with guys like Chaundee (Brown) and Zack (Dawson). How do you guys help one another on the court? It’s a lot of fun to play with them, they’re both great scorers and I can trust them with the ball, and they know how to find me as well. We all help find each other for shots, whether it is me grabbing a rebound and kicking it out or them driving and dishing it to me. What are some weaknesses or holes in your game right now that you will be honing in on this summer? My ballhandling and my shooting, I have been working on those a lot this summer and I’m going to keep working on those. I have already gotten a lot better in both areas and I am more comfortable handling the ball against guards. What does South Beach need to do to make it out of pool play? We will need to make our priority

What athlete has influenced you the most and why? LeBron James because he has shown me what I need to do to be great and what aggressiveness truly means.

defense and play as a team. We have to cut out any individual stuff and do what we need to do as a team to win some games. NB: How has your recruitment been going? Which schools have been coming after you the hardest? PA: It has been going well; I have been seeing a lot of new schools interested this spring. Northwestern, Northeastern, and Stanford are some new ones. I would say Yale has been coming after me hardest, with Richmond and Jacksonville right there too. What qualities are you looking for in a program at the next level? I look for strong academics first and foremost because I set that as a priority and the I will look at the basketball program as a whole. Finally I look at the campus and if it’s a place I want to be for 4 years. What has been your biggest motivation on the court? Fighting for that college scholarship

Aside from Peach Jam and playing with South Beach, what else will you be doing this summer to work on your game? I have some team camps that I’m playing in with my high school; we go to Stetson and FGCU but other than that I’ll be training every day. Is there a game or moment when you first realized that basketball could open some doors for you in the future? When I was in the 10th grade and I was playing football I was really leaning towards playing basketball and so I told my football coach I wasn’t going to play anymore. Well, he totally put me down and said I had no chance of playing D1 ball.That’s really when I knew I was playing basketball because I hate being told I can’t do something and I already loved basketball even before that.

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Q&A

HAMIDOU DIALLO NEW YORK RENS

How did this year’s EYBL season go? Was it everything you expected? I would say this year EYBL went good and it was everything I expected competition wise Peach Jam is one of the most well known basketball tournaments for grassroots basketball, how do you feel being able to compete in it? I feel like it’s honestly a blessing because there been many great players to attend peach jam and i get to be apart of that great list.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given in relation to basketball? The best advice I would say that I have been giving is just to keep working on my game and always remain humble Explain the EYBL in as few of words as possible The Most Competitive League

You attend Putnam Science Academy, do playing basketball? What you enjoy it? How does inspired you to start the competition there playing? compare to that in the I started playing basketball I EYBL? would say in the 5th grade and I definitely enjoy being at just the neighborhood I grew Putnam Science and I would up in and my older brother as say the competition in the well. What did you improve NEPSAC compares to EYBL upon most throughout the good players all around and Which player on the EYBL season? What are you still any team can lose to anybody circuit are you closest looking to improve? if they don’t play there A with? How have they I think I improved on was just game! helped you develop as a having a better view of the player? game and not rushing things Who is your toughest The players that I am closer I need to improve on that competition (player or with is my teammates and can help me and my team is team) and why? I would say they helped me becoming a better leader I wouldn’t be able to answer by just helping taking in the so many good players and whole experience When did you start teams! www.D1CIRCUIT.com

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LEONDRE WASHINGTON NJ PLAYAZ CLUB

Was this year’s EYBL season everything you expected? Why or why not? No It wasn’t expected actually. Coming into the season I thought we would sneak into Peach Jam. We Had A 7ft kid and when the start of the season came he left. So we are really playing with all guards in a league with 5 star centers. We all feel underrated and we all came out to prove that we belong. We ended up finishing 11-5 which is terrific. What’s your favorite part of playing for the EYBL? And what’s the hardest part about playing for the EYBL? My favorite part about playing in the EYBL is probably the competition. Night in & night out you’re playing against at least 2 great players. This is the best league in HS and you can showcase your talents I feel like. The hardest part of the EY is anybody can beat anyone. It’s frustrating because at the beginning of the Season we were 4-0 and we played a 0-4 Family and lost by 15. You have to bring it every game and that’s what I find hard. Who has been the biggest influence in helping you develop as a player? I would say my brother , he’s always making sure I’m in the gym or doing something better to improve. Whether it being getting up shots , in the weight room or on the track. How did the transition go from Teaneck to Roselle Catholic? Are you glad you made the decision? The transition was tough because

What are you working on improving as player before peach jam approaches? My athleticism. Getting stronger and faster basically. My skillset is there. My Jumpshot and handles feel better than ever. Just trying to become a better athlete. Because these guys in the EYBL are jumping out the gym like my best friend Hamidou Diallo lol

I went from being a combo guard really to a point guard. At Teaneck I would need to put up 20-25 to win against a good team and now at RC we would win if I didn’t score lol. Im playing with a lot of weapons so they make me look better in the long run. Im 50/50 about the decision I made. Im glad because I got to play at a higher level and play with great players. Then again the hometown love I miss and Im a guard that likes to score so I miss that a lot too. Plus Im very close with Coach Smart ( Teaneck HC ) and he’s like a father figure to me. What’re the biggest factors that go into choosing which college you will attend? Main factor is playing right away. Also a good education program. It doesn’t matter to me if I’m 2 miles from home or 2000 miles away. Im looking for a college where I trust the coaches and teammates and where I feel I best fit in

Which basketball player did you look up to growing up? I Would Say Allen Iverson. I wear 3 because of him & I just love his swag. Headband I wear is because of him , I don’t wear the sleeve because I don’t like how it feels lol. But other than that , to me he was my idol & just brought a different swag to the game. Made Jordan look silly lol. The Playaz is a very historic program with players like Kobe, Vince Carter, Tim Thomas, etc. What’s it mean to you to be able to play for that team? It’s An Honor to be able to play for a Historic Program like the Playaz. Jimmy Salmon has done a great job of producing players but most importantly developing young men. Jim is my guy for life I love him to death. Probably one of the most Realest people anyone can know if you know Him. #PlayazFam4Life Do you listen to music before games? If so, who’s on your playlist Yes I Listen to 3 Rappers Mainly. My Favorite Is Kodak Black , Number 2 is A-Boogie Out the Bronx. And Number 3 is My Hometown Rapper GNMEECH make sure you go to his soundcloud page he has some heat.

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Q&A

BRANDON RANDOLPH PSA CARDINALS

Describe what it’s like playing in the EYBL It’s definitely more of a challenge than the school season because now I know that if We don’t step up every single game, we have a chance of losing no matter who we play. It is also allowing me to showcase my skills on a high level. It’s a great experience You picked up a ton of offers this spring, how does that feel? It feels great actually! I love the amount of recognition that I am getting and it shows that my hard work is paying off. What is it like playing for PSA and Munch Williams? It’s a great experience! I’ve been playing for this organization since I was in 6th or 7th grade and Munch has always believed

born leader and pushes everyone to strive to their best and gets on you if you don’t! He’s one of my best friends and I love playing with him cause he has heart and I can really say he loves this game Quade Green has been lights out this season. in me and always helped me How has he opened your game up? develop my skills and put me real game situations. He He is great point guard and is a great coach and mentor. knows how to get off his shot anyway possible and knows how to dish that ball, What are you trying so people love to collapse on to improve on in him which leaves the rest of your game? Anything us open specifically before Peach Jam? Who has helped you I just need to sharpen all develop most as a of my tools and tricks for player? peach jam. I’ll be working on every aspect of my game My parents and trainers What is it like playing with Mo Bamba? I’ve been playing with Mo all year long. He’s a great teammate! He is a natural

What’re your top 3 favorite movies? Kill bill, shawshank redemption, inception

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Q&A

HASAHN FRENCH PSA CARDINALS

So how do you think the regular season went for PSA even though you guys were dealing with injuries most of the spring? I feel like it went very well even though we didn’t have our full team. We all just pulled through and got the job done.

outside combo? He is a great leader on the floor and he really helps me score the ball because he has no problem giving up the ball when you are in a good spot. Is there a certain player or team you hope to draw in pool play? Not really; I’m just ready to play against anyone.

What are the areas of your game that have improved the most this season compared with this past winter in high school ball? Dribbling, being able to slow down the game while I play, shooting, being a leader and passing.

but I’m always ready to step up to the challenge.

Have you made it a point to focus on those specific skills? Anything you do to emphasize them in your workouts? I just work hard on everything when I’m in the gym because I know I can get better at everything.

Is there a player at the next level you try and study more than others? In college, it’s Denzel Valentine I love his game. In the NBA it’s Justise Winslow, Lebron James and Draymond Green. I also like Ben Simmons’ allaround game.

After losing Mo (Bamba), did you make it a point to step up and prove you guys can still win a lot of games as long as you’re manning the post? We all knew we had to step up but I thought of it as a chance to really show my leadership abilities and win us some games.

Talk about playing with Quade (Green, EYBL assists leader). How does he help make you and everyone on the floor better? Quade is a great player that you want on your team. He passes very well and sometimes you want the ball and you’ll look up and it’s already in the air coming towards you.

Did you feel any added pressure to step up, other than what you placed on yourself? There was definitely some pressure

NB: How do you and him specifically feed off of one another, being that inside

NB: What will it take for you guys to put it together and win Peach Jam? What gives you guys an edge over other squads? We all really get along and other teams don’t have the chemistry we have. We just have to play solid, aggressive defense and I believe we will win it all. Who is your biggest inspiration on and off the court? My mother because she is a strong woman who has taught me how to get through life. She keeps me going and she’s my hero.Where they have me ranked is my motivation because it shows I still have work to do and I have to prove everyone wrong. I know that no matter who is ahead of me, they aren’t better than me and won’t outwork me. What does your ideal freshman year at the next level look like? A program that’s a family and that the coaches are willing to work with their kids and are invested of them. I also hope to win a national championship.

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Q&A COLE ANTHONY PSA CARDINALS

How has your game transitioned to the EYBL? What’s different than high school? In high school, I’m the man. On this team, I just need to help. I’m ultimately here to win, so it’s a lot different. How’s the team chemistry for you fellas, especially playing without big man Mo Bamba? It’s been alright I think. The game we lost in session 4 (to The Family) we probably should have won. The team has actually gotten better. We’ve gotten progressively better without him. He’s a big piece of the team but we’ve been learning to play without him. Have you noticed parts of your game improve operating in your current role? Yeah, that’s something that

mindset? It’s made me a lot more serious about the game. Playing my age group was fun, I was killing everyone but it wasn’t where I needed to be to get to the next level. This has me a lot more focused. Anything in your game you’ve circled me and my dad talked about that you’re trying to in order to take my game improve? to the next level. I’m not Everything. I mean, it’s always going to be the man not just one thing I can on the court. I have to learn say, I’m trying to improve to play alongside other great everything in my game. players. Going to head into What does your father Peach Jam with a target (Greg) mean to you? on your back. How He’s just a mentor to me. excited are you for July? He has so much knowledge For Peach Jam, obviously and I’m just really lucky to the goal is to win it. That’s have the opportunity to feed the only reason we go. We off that knowledge. are not going there to lose. For myself, I’m just going PSA runs a very to focus on being a better professional program. teammate on and off the Does that help your court.

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Q&A

XAVIER TILLMAN SPIECE INDY HEAT

So with the new ESPN rankings, how are you feeling about where you’re at? Are the players ranked ahead of you going to motivate you even more? Of course I believe I should be higher in the rankings, but I feel that Peach Jam is the perfect way to prove that. You guys have been on a roll since the first weekend. What have been the keys to your success as a team? We move the ball and rebound well, and we play at a high tempo with high energy. What elements have you been able to add to your game this spring? Nothing feels forced, and I always take my time with the ball in my hands and at the free throw line. I’ve also really been working on my close range jumper. Talk about some of the parts of your game that you are going to be focusing on improving this summer. My body is the biggest thing I’ll be working on. I want to lose some weight and be more conditioned. On the court, I want to be able to consistently knock down the midrange jumper.

possible, and just love the game. No attitude and all smiles because we get to play basketball. Also, we need to play together, with grittiness and toughness and keep our bigs out of foul trouble because we aren’t as deep there. NB: Is there a pro player you try to study or emulate more than others? I watch LeBron all day long.

Do you have a pregame routine at all? Music you like to listen to before a game? Nothing specific for a routine, but I listen to Drake and Chance the Rapper. What are some of your hobbies outside of hoops? Hanging with my girlfriend, playing Xbox and watching Netflix. I play a lot of NBA 2k16 and love to watch Fresh Prince. Any teams or players you’re hoping to get a shot at in pool play? I want to play MOKAN, NJ Playaz, and Team Penny. What’s it going to take for Spiece to win it all in July? Play as a team, play as hard as

How has your mother being a fouryear college star (University of Michigan) helped you in terms of work ethic and knowing the game? She sent me to a lot of camps when I was younger to get my game right but as far as teaching she let’s my coaches do that; she’s just really supportive. What does your ideal program look like at the next level? A family structure; I have to be very close with the coaching staff. I want to play for a team that’s willing to work hard and play up tempo. Describe your game in a few sentences. I am a true post with a high motor and IQ. I am a leader on the court and a team player.

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Q&A

DARIUS GARLAND STL EAGLES

What is the biggest difference between playing High School basketball vs EYBL? The biggest difference is the intensity and the pace of the games. Also It’s a lot of better talent in the EYBL. Thirdly, you have to bring your game every game of every session. How do you feel you match up against competition being a sophomore? I think I match up well with the guards. It’s a lot of bigger and stronger guards but i like to match up with the best guards to make myself compete and get better as a point guard. Who has been one of your biggest influences in helping you develop as a player? My Dad and My trainer Jamal Richardson. They really push myself to be the

How I fit with the system and how I get along with the coaches and the team. Any big goals for the summer? One of my goals this summer is to make the 17u USA team. But my biggest goal is to win Peach Jam.

best I can be as a player and also as a person. What’s the transition been like from WACG to STL Eagles? Any difference? It was a easy transition. The first day i stepped on the court at practice they made me feel i’ve been apart for a while. What factors are most important to you in regards to choosing which college you will attend?

Who is the hardest player you’ve ever had to play against? Jalen Brunson from Villanova. He is very crafty with the ball and he makes good decisions with the ball and off pick and rolls If you could eat dinner with one person dead or alive who would it be? My Grandmother. She was my biggest fan, and I know that she would be proud of all my success and accomplishments.

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Q&A

JORDAN GOODWIN STL EAGLES

How did your 2016 EYBL regular season go? I’ve been playing with 17s for two years now, played with Jayson Tatum last year. I’ve had a great experience, I’m a veteran right now in the league. I’ve played in a lot of games, a lot of close games, so my experience has been a good one. Your numbers have escalated tremendously from last year to this year. What would you attribute that to? It’s work ethic, but as far as my team and my coaching staff, it’s having faith in me and trust. Last year, they brought me up and Coach Frazier trusted me and put me in the game. In the CP3 game, we were down and they let me play until we came back. It’s just trust. And now it’s me trusting them, we’re a family and everyone has to play for one another. You’re one of the best rebounders in the country, and you’re a guard. Is that something you pride yourself on?

do you think put those schools over the top? I think just them seeing how hard I play. As far as last year, I played pretty good, but I wasn’t a focal point. This year, they’ve seen the rest of my game. As far as being frustrated, it was a bit annoying, but i knew it would work itself out.

Yeah, I definitely give extra work. Offensive rebounds lead to easy opportunities right by the basket. Rebounding is a big part of the game, you have to rebound in order to win the game. You do a lot of things well. What do you feel you do best outside of your rebounding? I would say attacking the basket, seeing the court well, and being a leader for my team. You’ve picked up quite a few offers recently, but were frustrated with the lack of offers before your breakout spring. What

You’re a dual-sport athlete, a star on the football field as well. What translates from the football field to the basketball court? Just being aggressive. On the football field, I’m aggressive and I’m blocking everyone. I use my body like i do on the football field like I do on the court. Are you going to try and pursue football at the next level? I’m not sure yet. It’s up to me and my family right now. Any goals for the rest of the summer? Win Peach Jam.

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Q&A

LAVAR BATTS JR. TEAM CP3

You are the floor general on this team. How is this Team CP3 squad different than your high school squad at Robinson? The talent is even greater. Because I know I don’t have to do as much. I can get the ball to another teammate, and let them play their game. On my high school team at Robinson (North Carolina), there are certain guys you can do that with. But with Team CP3, I know I can give it to one of my guys as the point guard and let them operate. How does playing with a guy like Wendell Carter elevate your game? I’ve never played with a big like that before. I love playing with Wendell. He’s a guy that can put it on the floor, go in the post and shoot. He’s so good. He also helps me run the pick and roll, it’s going to make me be a better point guard playing with a guy like that. Because I know in college there are going to be a lot of guys like that, so all he’s doing is preparing me for the next level. What do you feel you bring to a team at the next level? I’m going to give you the most effort on the court. I’m going to play the hardest. Play harder than the man in front of me. I’m going

You’re fresh off a state championship at Robinson. Talk about the winning mentality you have? Winning at Robinson and then coming to Team CP3, it just makes me want to win even more. I know the competition is even better, people are going harder, so it just makes me want to win even more.

to go as hard as I can until there’s nothing left, leave it all on the floor. You’re known as a hard worker. Who instilled the work ethic in you? My dad. I always see him working. He’s shown me there’s no days off. Sometimes when he’s sick, and my mom too, they still go to work. I just know there’s no days off. What’s it like playing for Team CP3? What’s your relationship with Chris? I have a good relationship with Chris. It’s a blessing to play with this team. There’s a lot of kids that want this opportunity, want this dream to a play with a team like this. And I have that. I’m just grateful, it’s a blessing to play with a team like Team CP3.

What’s the biggest difference between EYBL and high school? In the EYBL, everybody can play. Everybody can play. It’s going to be a good game every single time out. In high school, you’ll have good games here and there. But in the EYBL, everyone is a high recruit and everyone can play. You guys are highly ranked heading into the Peach Jam. Any goals for the rest of the summer? For Team CP3, just to win. Our goal is to win Peach Jam. Our 17s last year had it in their hands. They told us that we can do it, we’re next up. So that’s what we’re trying to do. For myself, I’m just trying to lead my team and be a better floor general.

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Q&A CAM REDDISH TEAM FINAL

A lot of great players have came from Team Final, what’s it like playing for them? A: Team Final is a brotherhood, we all have fun and joke around, even the coaches. But when it’s time to step on that floor, you’re playing for the name across your chest. Playing for Final is a privilege and I’m definitely blessed to have that opportunity. What are some of the things you have learned in your first year playing 17’s and what has been the biggest adjustment? One thing I learned while playing 17s is to put the past behind me. Not to dwell on the last play. The biggest adjustment I had was the physicality. It took a couple games, but I got used to it quickly. Q: What’s it been like playing with Mo Bamba at Westtown? Playing with Mo is a whole lot of fun. Mo is without a doubt the best player in his class. Hands down. He pushes me on and off

I compete against the best players in the country everyday at practice.

the court to be the best I can be. In practice, he gets on me... In games, he gets on me. He’s like a big brother that has my best interest and I appreciate it. What are some things you have learned from playing with Lonnie Walker? I’ve learned that you can’t let up. You can’t stop being aggressive. 110% every time you step on the floor. You play at Westtown, obviously a really high level school. What would you say the biggest difference is between high school and EYBL? I don’t see much of a difference.

You’re a Philly guy and Team final guy through and through, talk a little about the program and what its like for you. I remember I started in 7th grade adn I wasn’t really known and I started playing with them a little bit, and after a while I started making a name for myself and getting rankings. So i just continue to work and it’s just paid off. Was there ever a moment when you realized “yep basketball is for me?” I think it was when I was ranked 6th in the country, and I didn’t really have much confidence in myself and that was when I realized I can really be good, so I gotta put work in. What are you looking to improve right now? Definitely get stronger, a lot more atheltic. Make sure I stay focused throughout the game, just being there and focused throughout the entire game.

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Q&A JAVON FRANKLIN TEAM PENNY wealth, since most of you are the top option during the winter? We are different because all of us are the stars on our respective high school teams so everyone has to find their niche whether it’s scoring, playing defense, or rebounding. Everyone has a role and we all buy in.

How have you grown as a player since the beginning of the EYBL season? I feel that I have improved on my ball handling and my jumper has improved each session. My defense has really picked up a lot too. What has surprised you about the EYBL? Has it more or less been everything you expected? Yes it has. It’s not like high school ball because everyone on every team can score the ball and play and there aren’t really any weak links. You guys have really been on a roll and now stand as one of the top AAU squads in the nation. What has been

the key to your success as a team? We have many role players that are not just thinking about scoring. Everyone who comes off the bench contributes and we are not a selfish team at all. What makes us different from other teams is that we are very close on and off the court, all the way down to parents and coaches.

Talk about playing with PJ (Washington). How has he helped make the game easier for you, especially with this year being his third one on the circuit? PJ is a great team leader. When we are down he picks everybody up and motivates the team. Also, he is an unselfish teammate and doesn’t What’s the secret for you guys keeping ego’s force things; he tries to get in check and spreading everyone involved.

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Q&A CHRIS LYKES

So you recently committed, what went into your decision of choosing to play at Miami? Miami had been my dream school since watching Shane Larkin run Coach L’s offense to perfection, but Villanova was hard to turn down. They are a great school and their style of play suits mine as well, but Miami was the first high major school to take a chance on me. My relationship with Coach L has been on going for almost 2 years now. Last year they set 900 ball screens, something that I feel I would excel in.

TEAM TAKEOVER

Describe the EYBL in as few of words as possible It’s competing against the best of the best. Was this year’s EYBL season everything you expected? Why or why not? This was my second year, so I already knew what to expect. Just great competition everywhere you go. How do you match up

against the competition on the circuit being an undersized player? Just use my quickness and playmaking ability to make up for my size. What’s the most difficult part of practices or training? Keeping your wind in intense workouts and trying to simulate game speed when you’re working out but there’s no actual defender there. What is your proudest accomplishment thus far basketball wise? Winning the WCAC championship

Which basketball player did you look up to growing up? Allen Iverson, and because his style of play resembles mine. He was undersized too, but he could score with the best of them. What is the difference between playing at Gonzaga and playing for the EYBL? The tempo, and the competition is a little bit better. Tell me a little bit about your team dynamic. We’re a little undersized compared to other teams, but we’re fast and athletic. We got a lot of versatility on our team which helps us defensively too. Do you have any pregame rituals? (listening to music, etc.) Listening to music yes, and thanking God for everything so far. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given in relation to basketball? Believe in yourself!

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Q&A LUKA GARZA TEAM TAKEOVER

What all have you learned from playing in the EYBL? I have learned so much from the EYBL. The competition forces me to step my game up to highest it can go, in order to compete. Every team you match up with has the nation’s best talent, so it definitely highlights the pros and cons of your game and what you need to improve on. What’s the experience been like playing with team takeover this season? It’s been amazing. We’ve had our ups and downs, but we had a huge weekend in ATL, putting us in a great position for Peach Jam. All the guys are very focused on winning. We all push each other to be great in practice and in games and it’s paying off. We are a family. I played twice at the peach jam and what

opportunities for myself. My offensive versatility has helped me a lot because the defender doesn’t know how to guard me, because I can go inside and out. Who’s your favorite player in the NBA? LeBron is my favorite player in the NBA. He’s a legend. I loved most was the intensity every game brought. With the peach jam just two weeks away, what are you most excited about? The same thing as you. The intensity is going to be crazy, but that’s what I live for. I’m excited to see the intensity my team and I bring. What are some of the things in your game that have worked well for you in the EYBL? Well, how hard I play as helped me because most games I’m able to outwork the other bigs, creating more

KD, Kyrie, or Steph Curry to hit a game winning 3? I’m going to have to go with Kyrie after watching him hit that three in game 7. That was huge. Who did you have in the finals and why? I had the CAVS all along because there is no one in this world that can stop LeBron. He affects the game in so many ways it’s impossible to slow him down. With Kyrie healthy and playing at a high level, I knew LeBron would get his third ring.

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ALBANY CITY ROCKS ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Hameir Wright

6'8

200

2017

Albany, NY

Albany Academy

Dominick Welch

6'6

180

2017

Buffalo, NY

Cheektowaga

Will Bennett

5'11

165

2017

Albany, NY

Albany Academy

Andrew Platek

6'4

190

2017

Northfield, MA

Northfield Mount Hermon

Anthony Gaines

F|G

6'5

190

2017

Kingston, NY

New Hampton

Keith McGee

6'2

165

2017

Rochester, NY

Greece Arcadia

Kristers Zoriks

6'4

180

2017

Dobele, Latvia

New Hampton

Mike Wynn

6'6

185

2017

Albany, NY

Christian Brothers Academy

CJ Mulvey

6'7

190

2017

Albany, NY

Albany Academy

Nahziah Carter

6'6

185

2017

Rochester, NY

Bishop Kearney

Jimmy Boeheim

6'6

190

2017

Syracuse, NY

Jamesville Dewitt

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Albany City Rocks

Calirfornia Supreme

Albany City Rocks

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

8:30 PM

St. Louis Eagles

July 7

12:30 PM

Albany City Rocks

Team Penny

July 7

8:00 PM

Albany City Rocks

Pro Skills

July 8

9:00 AM

Albany City Rocks

Phoenix Phamily

July 8

6:00 PM

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BABC ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Justin Mazzulla

6'4

185

2017

Johnston, RI

Bishop Hendricken

Bailey Patella

6'5

185

2017

Lenox, MA

Vermont Academy

Corey Romich

6'4

195

2017

Groton, MA

Vermont Academy

Keyshaad Dixon

6'2

188

2017

Braintree, MA

St. Andrew's

Jakigh Dottin

6'2

210

2017

Cambridge, MA

Cambridge, Rindge & Latin

Jalyn Hinton

6'5

180

2017

Roxbury, MA

Governor's Academy

Caden Dumas

6'6

200

2017

Holden, MA

Choate Rosemary Hall

Cole Swider

F|G

6'7

195

2018

Portsmouth, RI

St. Andrew's School

Ryan Layman

6'7

190

2017

Wrentham, MA

Tilton School

Garrett Stephenson

6'7

230

2017

Townsend, MA

Suffield Academy

Terrell Brown

6'10

225

2017

Riverside, RI

Tilton School

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

BABC

Team Final

BABC

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

8:30 PM

E1T1 United

July 7

12:30 PM

BABC

Team CP3

July 7

8:00 PM

BABC

The Rens

July 8

9:00 AM

BABC

Houston Hoops

July 8

6:00 PM

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CALIFORNIA SUPREME ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Brandon Williams

6'3

165

2018

Panorama, CA

Crespi Carmelite

Anthony McNish

6'4

216

2017

Phoenix, AZ

Hillcrest Prep

Cassius Stanley

6'5

175

2019

Encino, CA

Harvard Westlake

Je'Von Figiaro

6'1

165

2017

San Diego, CA

Cathedral

Ethan Thompson

6'4

175

2017

Torrance, CA

Bishop Montgomery

Ryse Williams

6'4

180

2017

Los Angeles, CA

Redondo Union

Justice Suieing

6'7

205

2017

Honolulu, HI

Mater Dei

Jordan Schakel

6'6

195

2017

Torrance, CA

Bishop Montgomery

Brandon McCoy

7'0

220

2017

San Diego, CA

Cathedral

DeAndre Ayton

7'1

235

2017

Nassau, Bahamas

Hillcrest Prep

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Calirfornia Supreme

Albany City Rocks

Calirfornia Supreme

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

8:30 PM

Phoenix Phamily

July 7

2:00 PM

Calirfornia Supreme

St. Louis Eagles

July 7

9:30 PM

Calirfornia Supreme

Team Penny

July 8

12:00 PM

Calirfornia Supreme

Pro Skills

July 8

7:30 PM

www.D1CIRCUIT.com

138

CIA BOUNCE ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Jaelin Llewellyn

6'1

160

2018

Mississauga, ON

Orangeville Prep

Jahvon Blair

6'3

170

2017

Brampton, ON

Orangeville Prep

Jordan Lyons

6'6

170

2017

Brampton, Ontario

Orangeville Prep

Jalen Butler

6'2

165

2018

Toronto, ON

Kiski Prep

Howard Washington

6'3

175

2017

Niagara Falls, NY

Orangeville Prep

Tyler Plummer

6'3

175

2017

Vaughan, ON

Orangeville Prep

Cole Lawrence

6'10

190

2017

Scarborough, Ontario

Bill Crothers

Simi Shittu

6'10

195

2018

Bulrington, Ontario

Montverde Academy

Aaryn Rai

6'4

175

2017

Markham, ON

Orangeville Prep

Danilo Djuricic

6'7

190

2018

Brampton, Ontario

St. Michael's

Ignas Brazdeikis

6'7

185

2018

Oakville, ON

Orangeville Prep

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

CIA Bounce

Playaz Club

CIA Bounce

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

7:00 PM

PSA Cardinals

July 7

11:00 AM

CIA Bounce

Nike South Beach

July 7

6:30 PM

CIA Bounce

Spiece Indy Heat

July 8

9:00 AM

CIA Bounce

MeanStreets

July 8

7:30 PM

www.D1CIRCUIT.com

139

E1T1 UNITED ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Shaun Wade

6'3

180

2017

Jacksonville, FL

Trinity Catholic

Emmitt Williams

6'8

205

2018

Lehigh Acres, FL

IMG Academy

Luis Hurtado

6'6

190

2017

Weston, FL

Sagemont

Sylvain Francisco

6'2

170

2017

Tavares, FL

Liberty Christian

Darius Banks

6'5

190

2017

St. Petersburg, FL

St. Petersburg

Nick Honor

5'10

190

2018

Orlando, FL

Lake Highland Prep

Tyler Polley

6'8

185

2017

Weston, FL

Sagemont

David Nickelberry

6'7

210

2017

Orlando, FL

Windermere Prep

Bruno Fernando

6'10

225

2017

Primero Agosto, Angola

Montverde Academy

Silvio de Sousa

6'9

215

2018

Primero Agosto, Angola

Montverde Academy

Kevin Knox

6'8

210

2017

Tampa, FL

Tampa Catholic

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

E1T1 United

The Rens

E1T1 United

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

7:00 PM

BABC

July 7

12:30 PM

E1T1 United

Team Final

July 7

9:30 PM

E1T1 United

Houston Hoops

July 8

10:30 AM

E1T1 United

Team CP3

July 8

9:00 PM

www.D1CIRCUIT.com

140

EXPRESSIONS ELITE ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Javaughn Edmonds

6'6

175

2017

Brighton, MA

Thayer Academy

Joseph Kasperzyk Jr.

6'3

165

2017

New Haven, CT

Hillhouse

Tremont Waters

6'0

165

2017

New Haven, CT

South Kent

Charles Mitchell

5'10

155

2017

Boston, MA

New Mission

Jermaine Samuels Jr.

6'6

190

2017

Franklin, MA

Rivers School

Derrick Ellis

5'10

165

2017

Hartford, CT

Commonwealth Academy

Akim Sanni

6'7

200

2017

Portsmouth, NH

Tabor Academy

Jake Kakar

6'4

170

2017

Boston, MA

Lexington Christian Academy

Nick Richards

7'0

230

2017

Queens, NY

The Patrick School

Kimani Lawrence

6'7

195

2017

Providence, RI

New Hampton School

Jordan Hardwick

6'8

190

2018

Hartford, CT

Commonwealth Academy

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Expressions Elite

Team Takeover

Expressions Elite

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

8:30 PM

Mokan Elite

July 7

12:30 PM

Expressions Elite

Howard Pulley

July 7

8:00 PM

Expressions Elite

King James

July 8

9:00 AM

Expressions Elite

Las Vegas Prospects

July 8

6:00 PM

www.D1CIRCUIT.com

141

HOWARD PULLEY ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Gary Trent Jr.

6'6

205

2017

Apple Valley, MN

Apple Valley

Tre Jones

6'2

170

2018

Apple Valley, MN

Apple Valley

Jeremiah Coddon

6'3

190

2017

Woodbury, MN

Woodbury

Brad Davison

6'4

195

2017

Maple Grove, MN

Maple Grove

Gabe Kalscheur

6'4

180

2018

Minneapolis, MN

De La Salle

Courtney Brown

6'6

185

2019

Woodbury, MN

East Ridge

Isaac Johnson

6'3

185

2017

Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis North

DJ Hunter

6'3

170

2017

Minneapolis, MN

Champlin Park

Goodnews Kpegeol

6'5

185

2018

St. Paul, MN

North St. Paul

Daniel Oturu

6'10

215

2018

St. Paul, MN

Cretin-Derham Hall

David Roddy

6'5

230

2018

Minneapolis MN

Breck

Theo John

6'10

230

2017

Champlin, MN

Champlin Park

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Howard Pulley

Las Vegas Prospects

Howard Pulley

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

5:30 PM

King James

July 7

11:00 AM

Howard Pulley

Expressions Elite

July 7

8:00 PM

Howard Pulley

Team Takeover

July 8

12:00 PM

Howard Pulley

Mokan Elite

July 8

9:00 PM

142

@D1CIRCUIT

KING JAMES ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Derrick Daniels Jr.

6'7"

215

2016

Dayton, OH

Thurgood Marshall

Xavier Simpson

6'1"

175

2016

Lima, OH

Lima

Derek Funderburk Jr.

6'9"

215

2016

Cleveland, OH

St. Edward

Darnell Hoskins Jr.

5'11"

170

2016

Dayton, OH

Thurgood Marshall

Henry Baddley

6'5"

205

2016

Akron, OH

St. Vincent-St Mary's

LePear Toles Jr.

6'5"

190

2016

Canton, OH

Timkin

Dantez Walton

6'6"

215

2016

Lima, OH

Lima Central Catholic

Malik Harrison

6'4"

204

2016

Columbus, OH

Walnut Ridge

Jarron Cumberland

6'4"

180

2016

Wilmington, OH

Wilmington

Willie Jackson

6'6"

215

2016

Garfield Heights, OH

Garfield Heights

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

King James

Mokan Elite

King James

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

7:00 PM

Howard Pulley

July 7

11:00 AM

King James

Las Vegas Prospects

July 7

6:30 PM

King James

Expressions Elite

July 8

9:00 AM

King James

Team Takeover

July 8

7:30 PM

www.D1CIRCUIT.com

143

HOUSTON HOOPS ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Jay Jay Chandler

6'4

180

2017

Katy, TX

Cinco Ranch

John Dockery

6'2

190

2017

Houston, TX

Victory Prep

Jarred Vanderbilt

6'8

195

2017

Missouri City, TX

Victory Prep

Billy Preston

6'8"

230

2017

Dallas, TX

API

David Azore

6'4

183

2017

Houston, TX

Clear Brook

Cedrick Alley Jr.

6'6

215

2017

Houston, TX

Klein Forest

Royce Hamm

6'8

210

2017

Houston, TX

Aldine Davis

Matthew Strange

5'11

155

2017

The Woodlands, TX

St. Pius X

Jaedon LeDee

6'8

210

2018

Spring, TX

Kincaid School

Isiah Jasey

6'9

240

2017

Killeen, TX

Sunrise Christian

RJ Nembhard

6'4

185

2017

Keller, TX

Keller

Matthew Mayer

6'7

195

2018

Austin, TX

Austin Westlake

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Houston Hoops

Team CP3

Houston Hoops

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

5:30 PM

Team Final

July 7

2:00 PM

Houston Hoops

The Rens

July 7

6:30 PM

Houston Hoops

E1T1 United

July 8

10:30 AM

Houston Hoops

BABC

July 8

6:00 PM

144

@D1CIRCUIT

LAS VEGAS PROSPECTS ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Troy Brown Jr.

6'6

205

2017

Las Vegas, NV

Centennial

Michael Diggins

6'8

170

2017

Las Vegas, NV

Vermont Academy

Chris Hawkins

5'6

130

2017

Las Vegas, NV

Canyon Springs

Marcus Shaver

6'1

165

2017

Phoenix, AZ

SFBA

Jaylen Fox

6'2

165

2018

Las Vegas, NV

Faith Lutheran

Connor Fulton

6'4

175

2017

Draper, UT

Alta

O'Shae Brissett

6'8

195

2017

Mississauga, Ont., Canada

Findlay Prep

Charles O'Bannon Jr.

6'6

190

2017

Las Vegas, NV

Bishop Gorman

Culen Highbe

6'8

215

2018

Alamo, NV

Pahranagat Valley

KJ Hymes

6'10

200

2018

Litchfield, AZ

St. Mary's

Dominic Proctor

6'6

185

2017

Las Vegas, NV

Bishop Gorman

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Las Vegas Prospects

Howard Pulley

Las Vegas Prospects

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

5:30 PM

Team Takeover

July 7

2:00 PM

Las Vegas Prospects

King James

July 7

6:30 PM

Las Vegas Prospects

Mokan Elite

July 8

10:30 AM

Las Vegas Prospects

Expressions Elite

July 8

6:00 PM

www.D1CIRCUIT.com

145

MEANSTREETS ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Stephon Harris

6'6

200

2017

Aurora, IL

Oswego East

Evan Gilyard

5'9

185

2017

Chicago, IL

Simeon

Craig Beaudion

6'3

200

2017

Chicago, IL

Whitney Young

Alonzo Verge

6'2

200

2017

Hillside, IL

Proviso West

Isaiah Livers

6'8

200

2017

Kalamazoo, MI

Kalamazoo Central

Nojel Eastern

6'7

200

2017

Evanston, IL

Evanston

Coreyoun Rushin

6'6

200

2017

Chicago, IL

Westinghouse

Lucas Williamson

6'4

200

2017

Chicago, IL

Whitney Young

Brian Bowen

6'7

200

2017

Saginaw, MI

La Lumiere

Jaron Faulds

6'10"

245

2017

Holt, MI

Holt

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

MeanStreets

Spiece Indy Heat

MeanStreets

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

8:30 PM

Nike South Beach

July 7

2:00 PM

MeanStreets

Playaz Club

July 7

9:30 PM

MeanStreets

PSA Cardinals

July 8

12:00 PM

MeanStreets

CIA Bounce

July 8

7:30 PM

146

@D1CIRCUIT

MOKAN ELITE ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Michael Porter Jr.

6'9

210

2017

Columbia, MO

Father Tolton

Chris Teahan

6'5

185

2017

Kansas City, MO

Rockhurst

Jared Ridder

6'7

185

2017

Springfield, MO

Kickapoo

Cameron Davis

6'0

170

2017

Kickapoo, MO

Kickapoo

Elijah Landrum

5'11

165

2017

Tulsa, OK

Tulsa Central

Trae Young

6'2

174

2017

Norman, OK

Norman North

Bryan Trimble

6'3

202

2017

Kansas City, MO

Sunrise Christian

Derrick Walker

6'8

230

2017

Raytown, MO

Sunrise Christian

Jontay Porter

6'10

235

2018

Columbia, MO

Father Tolton

Carte'Are Gordon

6'9

255

2018

St. Louis, MO

Webster Groves

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Mokan Elite

King James

Mokan Elite

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

7:00 PM

Expressions Elite

July 7

12:30 PM

Mokan Elite

Team Takeover

July 7

9:30 PM

Mokan Elite

Las Vegas Prospects

July 8

10:30 AM

Mokan Elite

Howard Pulley

July 8

9:00 PM

147

@D1CIRCUIT

NEW YORK RENS

ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Jordan Tucker

6'7

205

2017

Bronx, NY

Stepinac

Hamidou Diallo

6'6

190

2017

Queens, NY

Putnam Science Academy

Jake Klores

6'0

170

2017

Bronx, NY

Riverdale

Jose Alvarado

6'1

175

2017

Queens, NY

Christ the King

Marco Morency

6'3

175

2017

Mt. Vernon, NY

Mt. Vernon

Samson George

6'7

210

2017

Ebo State, Nigeria

First Love Christian

Noah Morgan

6'9

230

2017

Mt. Vernon, NY

Mt. Vernon

Greg Calixte

6'9

230

2017

Mt. Vernon, NY

Mt. Vernon

Chris Efretuei

7'0

225

2017

Abuja, Nigeria

Park School

Jordan Nwora

6'8

205

2017

Buffalo, NY

Vermont Academy

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Team Penny

Phoenix Phamily

Team Penny

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

5:30 PM

Pro Skills

July 7

11:00 AM

Team Penny

Albany City Rocks

July 7

8:00 PM

Team Penny

Calirfornia Supreme

July 8

12:00 PM

Team Penny

St. Louis Eagles

July 8

9:00 PM

www.D1CIRCUIT.com

148

NIKE PRO SKILLS

ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Keith Reynolds, Jr.

6'1

175

2017

Austin, TX

St. Michael's Catholic

Elijah Elliott

6'4

185

2017

Southlake, TX

API

Jarrett Culver

6'5

175

2017

Lubbock, TX

Coronado

Dexter Johnson

6'3

165

2017

Duncanville, TX

Duncanville

EJ Clark

5'10

160

2017

McKinney, TX

McKinney

Caleb Daniels

6'4

198

2017

New Orleans, LA

St. Augustine

Joshua Williams

5'10

160

2017

Arabi, LA

Chalmette

Curtis Hollis

6'5

200

2017

Mansfield, TX

Summit

Jordan Myers

6'4

180

2017

Crowley, TX

North Crowley

Keaton Hervey

6'6

190

2017

Cedar Park, TX

Cedar Park

Daniel Vanzant

5'10

170

2017

Midland, TX

Midland Christian

Mitchell Robinson

6'10

220

2017

New Orleans, LA

Chalmette

Royce Hamm

6'8

210

2017

Houston, TX

Aldine

Jared Pearre

6'8

195

2017

McKinney, TX

McKinney North

Marco Anthony

6'6

220

2017

San Antonio, TX

Holmes

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Pro Skills

St. Louis Eagles

Pro Skills

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

7:00 PM

Team Penny

July 7

11:00 AM

Pro Skills

Phoenix Phamily

July 7

6:30 PM

Pro Skills

Albany City Rocks

July 8

9:00 AM

Pro Skills

Calirfornia Supreme

July 8

7:30 PM

www.D1CIRCUIT.com

149

NIKE SOUTH BEACH ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

KJ Fitzgerald

6'0

180

2017

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Cardinal Newman

Jordan Caruso

6'2

175

2017

Davie, FL

Staten Island Academy

Zack Dawson

6'4

180

2017

Miami, FL

South Miami

Zach Brown

7'1

245

2017

Miami, FL

Miami Beach

Greg James

6'3

170

2017

Snellville, GA

Shiloh

Michael Moore

6'1

165

2017

Miami, FL

University School

Amorie Archibald

6'3

170

2017

Deltona, FL

Trinity Christian

Eduardo Camacho

6'1

145

2017

Puerto Rico

Miami Christian

Johnny Long

6'3

185

2017

Ormond Beach, FL

Montverde Academy

JoJo Walker

6'3

180

2017

Puerto Rico

St. Joseph's

Chaundee Brown

6'5

205

2017

Orlando, FL

The First Academy

Paul Atkinson

6'8

220

2017

Palm Beach, FL

Westminster Academy

Abule Abadi

6'8

240

2017

Miami, FL

Dade Christian

Robert Johnson

6'6

195

2017

Lantana, FL

Santaluces

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Nike South Beach

PSA Cardinals

Nike South Beach

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

5:30 PM

MeanStreets

July 7

2:00 PM

Nike South Beach

CIA Bounce

July 7

6:30 PM

Nike South Beach

Playaz Club

July 8

10:30 AM

Nike South Beach

Spiece Indy Heat

July 8

6:00 PM

150

@D1CIRCUIT

PHOENIX PHAMILY ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Tolu Jacobs

6'11

270

2018

Tempe, AZ

King's Ridge

Remy Martin

6'0

170

2017

Burbank, CA

Sierra Canyon

Cody Riley

6'8

240

2017

Los Angeles, CA

Sierra Canyon

Holland Woods Jr.

6'0

165

2017

Peoria, AZ

Apollo

Adam Seiko

6'4"

190

2017

Calabasas, CA

Sierra Canyon

Marcus Bagley

6'5

200

2020

Phoenix, AZ

Sierra Canyon

Shane Grier

6'5

200

2017

Phoenix, AZ

Corona del Sol

Darion Spottsville

6'3

190

2017

Phoenix, AZ

Shadow Mountain

Marvin Bagley III

6'11

220

2018

Tempe, AZ

Sierra Canyon

Dilson Da Piedade

6'10"

260

2017

Surprise, AZ

Elite 1 Prep

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Phoenix Phamily

Team Penny

Phoenix Phamily

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

5:30 PM

Calirfornia Supreme

July 7

2:00 PM

Phoenix Phamily

Pro Skills

July 7

6:30 PM

Phoenix Phamily

St. Louis Eagles

July 8

10:30 AM

Phoenix Phamily

Albany City Rocks

July 8

6:00 PM

151

@D1CIRCUIT

PLAYAZ BASKETBALL CLUB ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Elijah Mitchell

6'3

185

2017

Edison, NJ

Mater Dei Prep

RJ Cole

6'1

170

2017

Linden, NJ

St. Anthony

Leondre Washington

6'0

170

2017

Englewood, NJ

Roselle Catholic

Jamir Harris

6'2

180

2017

North Brunswick, NJ

St. Patrick

Marcus McClary

6'4

185

2017

Linden, NJ

Patrick School

Justin Minaya

6'5

175

2017

Old Tappan, NJ

Northern Valley Regional

Daniel Mading

6'9

180

2017

Perth, Australia

St. Anthony

Jamir Thomas

6'6

190

2017

Passaic, NJ

Passaic

Jawaun Daniels

6'8

190

2017

Harlem, NY

Teaneck

Elijah Barnes

6'8

195

2017

Freehold Township, NJ

Mater Dei Prep

Maurice Waters

6'7

200

2017

Philadelphia, PA

Constitution

Anthony Mack

6'5

215

2017

Troy, NY

Blair Academy

Bul Ajing

6’11

220

2017

Sudan

St. Patrick

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Playaz Club

CIA Bounce

Playaz Club

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

7:00 PM

Spiece Indy Heat

July 7

12:30 PM

Playaz Club

MeanStreets

July 7

9:30 PM

Playaz Club

Nike South Beach

July 8

10:30 AM

Playaz Club

PSA Cardinals

July 8

9:00 PM

www.D1CIRCUIT.com

152

PSA CARDINALS ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Quade Green

6'0

175

2017

Philadelphia, PA

Neumann-Goretti

Cole Anthony

6'2

170

2019

New York, NY

Archbishop Molloy

Deondre Bourne

6'5

180

2017

Brookyln, NY

Leman Manhattan Prep

Walter Whyte

6'5

210

2017

New Haven, CT

St. Luke's

Brandon Randolph

6'6

180

2017

Yonkers, NY

Westtown

Mohamed Bamba

6'11

210

2017

Harlem, NY

Westtown

Najja Hunter

6'6

185

2017

Brooklyn, NY

Westtown

Jose Perez

6'5

195

2017

Bronx, NY

Wings Academy

Deng Gak

6'11

210

2017

Blairstown, NJ

Blair Academy

Hasahn French

6'7

225

2017

Middletown, NY

Commonwealth Academy

Mamadou Doucouré

6'9

265

2018

Centereach, NY

Our Savior New American

Anthony Boateng

5'9

150

2017

New York, NY

Holderness School

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

PSA Cardinals

Nike South Beach

PSA Cardinals

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

5:30 PM

CIA Bounce

July 7

11:00 AM

PSA Cardinals

Spiece Indy Heat

July 7

8:00 PM

PSA Cardinals

MeanStreets

July 8

12:00 PM

PSA Cardinals

Playaz Club

July 8

9:00 PM

www.D1CIRCUIT.com

153

SPIECE INDY HEAT ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Justin Roberts

6'0

170

2017

Indianapolis, IN

Pike

Jaylen Butz

6'9

205

2017

Fort Wayne, IN

Fort Wayne North

Jaren Jackson Jr.

6'10

220

2017

Indianapolis, IN

Park Tudor

Sterling Brown

6'0

170

2017

Indianapolis, IN

Carmel

Parker Hazen

6'7

205

2017

Columbia City, IN

Columbia City

James Beck

6'8

205

2017

Grand Rapids, MI

Grand Rapids Christian

Tyger Campbell

6'1

160

2019

Nashville, TN

La Lumiere

Xavier Tillman

6'9

230

2017

Grand Rapids, MI

Grand Rapids Christian

Brandon Johns

6'8

215

2018

East Lansing, MI

East Lansing

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Spiece Indy Heat

MeanStreets

Spiece Indy Heat

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

8:30 PM

Playaz Club

July 7

12:30 PM

Spiece Indy Heat

PSA Cardinals

July 7

8:00 PM

Spiece Indy Heat

CIA Bounce

July 8

9:00 AM

Spiece Indy Heat

Nike South Beach

July 8

6:00 PM

154

@D1CIRCUIT

ST. LOUIS EAGLES ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Brandon McKissic

6'2

170

2017

St. Louis, MO

SLUH

Darius Garland

6'0

155

2018

Brentwood, TN

Brentwood

Reggie Crawford

6'4

185

2017

St. Louis, MO

Chaminade

Jericole Hellems

6'6

190

2017

St. Louis, MO

Chaminade

Richard Henderson

6'5

210

2017

Maryland Heights, MO

Pattonville

Jordan Goodwin

6'5

215

2017

Belleville, IL

Althoff

Tim Finke

6'6

195

2018

Champaign, IL

Champaign Central

Thomas Dutton

6'7

220

2017

Columbia, MO

Columbia Hickman

Silas Adheke

6'8

235

2017

Chaanooga, Nigeria

Hamilton Heights

Jeremiah Tilmon

6'10

235

2017

East St. Louis, IL

La Lumiere

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

St. Louis Eagles

Pro Skills

St. Louis Eagles

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

7:00 PM

Albany City Rocks

July 7

12:30 PM

St. Louis Eagles

Calirfornia Supreme

July 7

9:30 PM

St. Louis Eagles

Phoenix Phamily

July 8

10:30 AM

St. Louis Eagles

Team Penny

July 8

9:00 PM

155

@D1CIRCUIT

TEAM CP3 ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

JP Moorman

6'7

205

2017

Greensboro, NC

Greensboro Day

Lavar Batts Jr

6'2

165

2017

Concord, NC

JM Robinson

Jalen Spicer

5'11

155

2017

Greensboro, NC

Northwest Guilford

Blake Harris

6'3

165

2017

Chapel Hill, NC

Word of God

Devontae Shuler

6'3

185

2017

Columbia, SC

Oak Hill

Michael Hueitt, Jr.

6'3

165

2017

Fayetteville, NC

High Point Christian

Jalen Seegars

6'5

225

2017

Greensboro, NC

High Point Christian

Victor Enoh

6'8

235

2017

Atlanta, GA

Greenforest Christian

Jack Hemphill

6'9

225

2017

Raleigh, NC

Ravenscroft School

Wendell Carter

6'10

260

2017

Atlanta, GA

Pace Academy

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Team CP3

Houston Hoops

Team CP3

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

5:30 PM

The Rens

July 7

11:00 AM

Team CP3

BABC

July 7

8:00 PM

Team CP3

Team Final

July 8

12:00 PM

Team CP3

E1T1 United

July 8

9:00 PM

www.D1CIRCUIT.com

156

TEAM FINAL ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Daron Russell

5'10

180

2017

Philadelphia, PA

Imhotep Charter

Tamir Green

5'11

155

2017

Philadelphia, PA

Constitution

Jordan Money

6'3

175

2017

Wilmington, DE

St. Elizabeth

Lonnie Walker

6'5

180

2017

Reading, PA

Reading

Dhamir Cosby-Roundtree

6'8

215

2017

Philadelphia, PA

Neumann-Goretti

Cameron Reddish

6'8

195

2018

Norristown, PA

Westtown

Nick Alikakos

6'7

195

2017

Newtown Square, PA

Episcopal Academy

Justyn Mutts

6'7

215

2017

Millville, NJ

St. Augustine Prep

Daequan Williams

6'6

200

2017

Camden, NJ

Camden

Marcus Littles

6'9

250

2018

Philadelphia, PA

ANC

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Team Final

BABC

Team Final

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

8:30 PM

Houston Hoops

July 7

2:00 PM

Team Final

E1T1 United

July 7

9:30 PM

Team Final

Team CP3

July 8

12:00 PM

Team Final

The Rens

July 8

7:30 PM

www.D1CIRCUIT.com

157

TEAM PENNY ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

Jayden Hardaway

6'4

185

2017

Memphis, TN

Memphis East

Alex Lomax

6'0

180

2018

Memphis, TN

Memphis East

Khalil Garland

6'6

190

2017

Mableville, AR

Parkview

Galin Smith

6'10"

220

2017

Clinton, MS

Clinton High

Parker Stewart

6'5

185

2017

Union City, TN

Union City

Jarkel Joiner

6'2"

170

2017

Oxford, MS

Oxford

Isaiah Stokes

6'9

250

2017

Memphis, TN

Lausanne Collegiate

Javon Franklin

6'6

185

2017

Little Rock, AR

Parkview

John Petty Jr.

6'6

185

2017

Huntsville, AL

JO Johnson

Chandler Lawson

6'8

170

2019

Memphis, TN

Memphis East

PJ Washington

6'9

225

2017

Memphis, TN

Findlay Prep

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Team Penny

Phoenix Phamily

Team Penny

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

5:30 PM

Pro Skills

July 7

11:00 AM

Team Penny

Albany City Rocks

July 7

8:00 PM

Team Penny

Calirfornia Supreme

July 8

12:00 PM

Team Penny

St. Louis Eagles

July 8

9:00 PM

158

@D1CIRCUIT

TEAM TAKEOVER ROSTER No.

Name:

Pos.

Ht.

Wt.

Year:

Hometown:

School:

DJ Harvey

6'6

205

2017

Bowie, MD

DeMatha

Chris Lykes

5'7

150

2017

Mitchellville, MD

Gonzaga

Myles Douglas

6'7

200

2017

Edgewood, MD

Paul VI

Aaron Thompson

6'2

180

2017

Glenndale, MD

Paul VI

Eddie Scott

6'6

190

2017

Bowie, MD

Gonzaga

Chyree Walker

6'5

190

2017

Bowie, MD

Bullis School

Ryan Allen

6'2

185

2017

Bowie, MD

DeMatha

Anthony Duruji

6'7

190

2017

Bronx, NY

St. Andrew's Episcopal

Collin Nnamene

6'9

210

2018

Nigeria

St. Albans

Jelani Williams

6'5

190

2017

Bowie, MD

Sidwell Friends

Nigel Jackson

6'6

200

2017

Baltimore, MD

Mt. St. Joseph

Luka Garza

6'10

230

2017

Arlington, VA

Maret

Bryce Golden

6'7

220

2018

Hagerstown, MD

Saint James

Team:

Opponent:

Date:

Team Takeover

Expressions Elite

Team Takeover

SCHEDULE Time:

Gym:

July 6

8:30 PM

Las Vegas Prospects

July 7

2:00 PM

Team Takeover

Mokan Elite

July 7

9:30 PM

Team Takeover

Howard Pulley

July 8

12:00 PM

Team Takeover

King James

July 8

7:30 PM

159

@D1CIRCUIT

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160

@D1CIRCUIT