The dozen or so Connecticut based AAU programs are getting together for a short-travel, BIG bragging rights weekend in Norwalk.

Recruit the Bronx will have scouts at this inaugural event to catch some of the state's rising prospects

More Than a Game is one of Queens top summer league events. Going strong for seven years, MTG is organized by Kim Wilson and Rob Moses,  Assitant Coach, Cardozo High. Every year this summer league keeps attracting more and more talented players and these are some of the top performers we noticed.

Week 1 Saturday June 16

Dovanta Cook 2019 5'10 guard Brooklyn Law and Tech HS - good enough handle to be a play maker. Good court vision. Able passer. Works hard on defense. Needs to limit his turnovers

Kareem Reid 2020 6'8 Putnam Science Academy HS (CT)/NY Finest - lefty big man. Good size and length. Good rebounder. Decent moves in the post. Shows the ability to turn and face and dribble some along with his back to the basket moves. Needs to work on his weak hand moves moves and being an aggressive defender.

Sean Anderson 2019 6'7 forward Connetquot HS (NY)/Team Underrated  - Big man that can step out and hit the 3pt shot on occasion. Can finish at the basket when going left. Average rebounder. Needs his agility and mobility.

Ajani Lewis 2020 6'4 forward Jamaica HS (NY)/Almighty Basketball  - basic skill set with good potential. Average rebounder. Effective when close to the basket. Needs to work on being consistent on both sides of the floor and his lower body strength

Pete Baron 2019 6'0 guard Chaminade HS (NY)  - fundamentally sound player. Has 3pt shooting range. Can be effective with his pass. Needs to work on his dribble and defense

Benchik Bayor 2019 6'7 center Scholars Academy HS (NY)/ HBT - tall and lanky. Raw talent and skills. Runs the floor. Good rebounding and shot blocking potential. Needs to improve on his skills

Jaylen Davis 2019 6'2 guard Cardozo HS (NY) - good shooter. Good size at the guard position. Shows flahes of good athleticism. Decent with his dribble and scoring. Needs to get into better shape.

Coby Farrington 2019 5'9 guard Cardozo HS (NY) - has the capability to assert himself on the game when he wants to and is focused. Has good offensive skills. Can shoot and finish. Needs to stay aggressive with his pressure defense.
 

By Derrick Irving @CoachDIrving   

Recruit The Bronx was on hand Saturday June 16th to watch a bevy of great matchups at the second Fordham Team Camp of the summer. Held in the beautiful Rose Hill Gym, there were many good HS programs participating in the camp. Here were our top prospects:

Jose Cuello 2020 5’11 Point Guard Wings Academy - strong handle, quick first step blows past defenders to get to the basket, can finish thru traffic on the drive, good playmaker sets up teammates well. Streaky outside shooter, needs to be more aggressive at times.

Jaylen Murray 2020 6’0 Guard Cardinal Hayes - good outside shooter can get hot from deep, creates good separation off the dribble and screens, shifty handle, very smooth offensive game. Needs to get stronger and distribute the ball more.

Shemani Fuller 2020 6’7 Forward Cardinal Hayes - athletic finisher on the fast break, athletic rebounder, can block shots, runs the floor well, long and lanky frame. Still growing into his body needs to get stronger and improve his handle.

Julian Champagnie 2019 6’7 Small Forward Bishop Loughlin - good catch and shoot game, quick first step attacks the basket strong, slasher who can finish thru contact on the drive, explosive leaper, quality defender inside-out, athletic rebounder. Needs to tighten his handle on the perimeter to create more scoring opportunities and space.

Justin Champagnie 2019 6’7 Forward Bishop Loughlin - can score inside-out, decent post game for a tweener Forward, can finish thru contact in close, throws good outlet passes, good defender, quick hands plays the passing lanes. Needs to show his outside shot to keep defenders on edge.

Femi Odukale 2019 6’5 Small Forward South Shore - good catch and shoot 3pt shooter, can finish inside, moves his feet well on defense, quality perimeter handle, athletic rebounder, stays with the play on both ends. Needs to work on his slashing moves and first step.

Isaiah Richards 2019 6’9 Center South Shore - rim protector great timing on his blocks, quick hands on defense can blast up and contain perimeter players ,plays the passing lanes, runs the floor hard, athletic, long arms. Needs to add muscle to bang down low and secure the ball better.

Dwight Davis Jr. 2019 6’0 Guard South Shore HS - good outside shooter can get hot from deep, good form and elevation on his jump shot, crafty athletic finisher on the drive,  non stop motor hustles on both ends of the floor, strong body.

Majesty Johnson 2020 5’7 Point Guard Brooklyn Collegiate - one of the top point guards in NYC, a true floor general who can set up teammates and see the floor, quick and shifty handle, create good separation off the dribble, good outside shooter, can finish thru traffic on the drive.

Erlyn Ramirez 2019 6’7 Power Forward Brooklyn Collegiate - good passer out of the high or low post, strong inside finisher, soft touch around the basket, good rebounder, can run the floor well, strong body. Needs to improve his mid-range game and be more aggressive protecting the rim.

Glen Anderson 2019 5’9 Point Guard Brooklyn Collegiate - one of the best PGs in NYC, great floor general make his teammates better,  exciting playmaker with great court vision, can pass guys open, pesty perimeter defender, quick hands on defense, strong body. Streaky outside shooter.

Matt Mayers 2019 6’8 Power Forward Monsignor Scanlan - shows flashes of a good low post game, can stretch the floor out to 15 ft, good rebounder, soft finish around the basket, can get up and down the court well, long and lanky frame. Needs to get stronger to be able to bang down low.

Joe Munden 2020 6’4 Wing Monsignor Scanlan - athletic finisher on the drive, good slashing moves to get to the basket, solid perimeter handle, moves his feet well on the perimeter, long and lanky frame. Needs to get stronger and be a more consistent outside shooter.

Nick Johnson 2019 6’3 Guard All Hallows - attacks the basket strong, create driving lanes, adept at drawing fouls on the drive, good free throw shooter. Needs to have more faith in his jumper and be more consistent.

AJ Griffin 2021 6’6 Wing Stepinac - long arms and good discipline on defense, can score on three levels, good handle on the perimeter, can finish thru contact and traffic on the drive, nice arc on his jumper, high IQ on both ends of the floor. Needs to get stronger and be more aggressive at times

Malcolm Chimezie 2021 6’7 Power Forward Stepinac - strong athletic rebounder, good interior defender, runs the floor very well, okay hands.  Needs to work on be a more consistent inside finisher and improve his low post game.

Ryan Pye 2019 5’9 Guard WHEELS - pesky perimeter defender, good handle, good pull-up jumper off the dribble, sneaky athleticism. Needs to be more consistent from three point range.

Tyrese Conway 2019 6’2 Guard Evander Childs - long and lanky frame, quick hands on defense, pesky perimeter defender, good offensive rebounder finishes his putbacks. Streaky shooter, needs to be more consistent.

Asany Small 2019 6’6 Power Forward Evander Childs - strong body, good rebounder, decent finisher thru contact inside. Needs to be more aggressive on both ends. Just started playing basketball last year, played soccer prior, good potential.

Ibrahim Wattara 2020 6’5 Forward Mount Saint Michael - an absolute man-child, explosive keeper jumps out the gym, strong athletic rebounder, consistent finisher thru contact inside and on the drive, quick first step and he's  at the rim. Needs to work on his outside shot and perimeter handle to be wing player at the next level.

By Emma Yavel, Mack Muller and Doug Scott

Scouting for college prospects at the 15u level, for the most part, is a very imprecise exercise.... For example, keep in mind that Michael Jordan got cut as 16 year old due to his lack of shot making ability and Steph Curry was still starting his jump shot from the waist level as a 15 year old... I.e., It's impossible to know which gifted young athletes are going to have the work ethic to build skills. Many of them don't realize the gene pool lottery wins, that made them great at the pre-high school varsityl level, won't be enough going forward. The size and athleticism of the older defenders that lie ahead in their future will squeeze down the spacing and opportunities for them to dominate on sheer speed, agility and/or size alone. 

That being said, we saw things from the following Rumble 15us that made us intrigued. 

Cooper Stern (2021) 5’10 guard High School: Fairfield Prep (CT) AAU Team: CT Premier - Deep range, quick release sniper. Zone buster. Reads the game well. Effective in the pick n roll reads. Low center of gravity on his ball handling.

Aren Cummings (2020) 6’4 forward High School: Bassick HS (CT)  AAU Team: CT Premier - Mulifaceted scorer. Can post up with back to basket moves. Has a high release midrange jumper. Ambidextrous driver and finisher. Focused on the defensive end. Has mastered the lost art of the box out.

James Cook (2021) 5’10 guard High School: Kobe Cathedral (CT) AAU Team: CT Premier- Explosive speed bursts in transition and into the defensive gaps. Has a lethal floater to finish his escape moves with. Ball pressure terrorist. Wins the 50-50 scrambles.

Michael Fernandes (2021) 6’2 swing High School: Bridgeport Central HS (CT) AAU Team: CT Premier - Mesmerizing body control that he uses so well in s many ways on the court. Creates space for rebounds. Creates space for shots. Creates space in finishing against contact. Crafty, hard playing and fun to watch.

RJ Greene (2022) 6'4 guard High School: Iona Prep (NY) AAU Team: PSA Cardinals - As only an 8tgh grader, Greene already really looks the part of a high level prospect. 6'4 ball handler with athleticism and body control. Has the basket drive game and the floater. If he puts in the shooting reps to become elite from deep, he will attend college on a scholarship.

Malik McNiel (2020) 6'5 forward High School: Williston Northampton (MA) (Home Town: Manhattan) AAU Team: PSA Cardinals - The football guys would be trying to sign this guy right nowas a left tackle. I.e., he's a big,big boy. The basketball guys will push him to lose 20lbs in order to upgrade his mobility and endurance. As it is now, you don't want to get caught in a blind screen from him, nor are you moving him off the block or out of rebounding position.

Noel Echevarria (2022) 6'2 guard High School: Eagle Academy (NY) AAU Team: PSA Cardinals -  Brings the NYC game, agile, athletic and aggressive to the hoop.  Plays with intensity and great body control. Will he put in the reps to become a perimeter threat at the next level?

Michael Carothers (2021) 5'9 guard High School: LaSalle HS (NY) AAU Team: Riverside Hawks - a far from finished product, but projects confidence and a feel for the game. He needs to mature his jump shot into a higher release point, then put up the requisite 500k practice reps to make it lethal.

Maurice Dobey (2020) 5’7 guard High School: Bishop Loughlin (NY) AAU Team: Riverside Hawks - Compensates for his lack of height on the offensive by bringing a dependable floater and extra-deep range on his 3 ball. Vocal leader. Wins the 50-50 scrambles.

Jesssie Crook (2021) 7’0 center High School: Manhattan AAU Team: Riverside Hawks - Any time a seven foot freshman steps onto a basketball court, scouts will take notice. Crook has the time for his muscles to catch up to his growth spurt. In the meantime, he is playing with energy and decent mobility.

Aazayah Ross (2022) 5'11 guard High School: Portledge School (NY) AAU Team: Seaford Heat -  Last week, we were impressed by this 2022 playing up at the 14u level. Now, he is back showing that he can shine playing up a year as well. Stay tuned, he is a man against boys his own age. If he beefs up his shooting range, he will be hard to guard at the next level too. 

Kawar Singh (2021) 6'4 forward High School: St Mary's (NY) AAU Team: Seaford Heat - A big strong, well-coached back-to-the basket player. If he can add a perimeter face-up game skills package over the next two years, the collegiates will care.

Daniel Lafitte (2021) 6'3 guard High School: Leman Prep (NY) AAU Team: King Hoops NYC - Great athleticism with the ability to finish at the rim. Very impressive offensive prospect. If he can develop the ability to match that on the defensive end, he will draw interest.

Matt Gonzalez (2021) 5'10 guard High School: Xaverian HS (NY) AAU Team: King Hoops NYC - Knockdown shooter. Very good at using screens to get open. Improvement in his handle will up his value and his versatility in scoring.

RJ Davis (2020) 5’7 guard High School: Archbishop Stepinac HS (NY) AAU Team: PSA Cardinals - Gritty starting point guard for PSA. Displays excellent offensive ability all over the floor. Controls tempo well. Quick on his feet and can draw the foul. 

Jaylen Murray (2020) 5’11 guard High School: Cardinal Hayes HS (Bronx) AAU Team: PSA Cardinals - Great mid-range shooter who knows how to generate points well. Moves the ball well on the court and can finish. 

Caleb “CJ” Wilcher (2020) 6’5 wing High School: The Patrick School (NJ)  AAU Team: PSA Cardinals – Having already received an offer from Fordham has put some confidence up his sleeve - but Wilcher remains modest and poised on the court. High basketball IQ and shows it with his high level passes and shots on the court. 

Quaran McPherson (2020)  6’7 forward High School: The Patrick School AAU Team: PSA Cardinals - McPherson is already getting some looks from some big time scouts. This guy has been on our radar since 2016 and he has not stopped impressing us.

Rashawn Grant (2020) 6’0 guard High School: Arlington HS (NY) AAU Team: Coast 2 Coast - A tall guard who can finish at the rim with a variety of moves. Has great court vision and can defend multiple positions. Needs to eventually hit the weight room in order to excel at the next level.

Ali Harrell (2020) 5’8 point guard High School: Poughkeepsie HS (NY) AAU Team: Coast 2 Coast - a floor general with great intensity. Facilitator who makes players around him better.

Adrian Davis (2020) 5’10 guard High School: Beacon HS (NY) AAU Team: Coast 2 Coast – a sharpshooter with unlimited range and deceptive quickness to get to the basket when necessary.

Wisler Sanon 11 (2021) 6'2 swing High School: Paul the VI (NJ) AAU Team: Team Walker - This freshman shows complete aggression to get the job done. Stops opponent's drives cold. Attacks the basket on offense with great athleticism. Knows where his teammates are on offense and gets them involved. Is an impact rebounder. As his body fills out, he becomes an even bigger factor in this game.

Devin Benson (2021) 5'10 guard High School: St Josephs (NJ) AAU Team: Team Walker - This kid can score, both with the floater and the jump shot. He knows the floor and directs the basketball accordingly. He creates turnovers with his in-your-face ball pressure.

Jalen Boyd-Savage (2021) 6'1 swing High School: Paul the VI (NJ) AAU Team: Team Walker - His athleticism stands out in a fast paced, intense game. He drives to the basket with power and aggression, creates contact and finishes. A team player with a good skill set.  Loves to both body-up and draw charges on defense. 

Clevmer Lubin (2021) 6'2 forward High School: St Joseph Regional HS (NJ) AAU Team: Rocktown Monarchs - Impressive for a 14 year old to emerge as "the man amongst boys". At 210lbs already, he overpowered any defender in front of him. D1 athleticism, rebounding and shot blocking abilities.

Danny Lans (2021) 6'0 point guard High School: St Joseph Regional HS (NJ) AAU Team: Rocktown Monarchs - The 15 year old floor leader who spearheaded his squad to the tourney finals. He showed instinct and vision. A well balanced performer. His coach, J R Inman expects Lans to rise into one of the premier PGs in the country.

Nazir Williams  (2021) 6'2 guard High School: St Joseph Regional HS (NJ) AAU Team: Rocktown Monarchs - One of the purest scorers in the Rumble 15u division. Averaged 17 ppg in his six games, including going for 22 in the title bout. Already a varsity scorer as a freshman for the St Joes Green Knights this past winter.

Brian Johannson (2021) 6'3 guard High School: Hunterdon Central (NJ) AAU Team: United NJ - Smooth, two-way guard with ability to score from anywhere on the floor. Uses jumper to space the floor and size to finish through contact at the rim. Will be a highly sought after prospect.

Christopher Rubayo (2021) 6'6 forward High School: Montgomery. HS (NJ) AAU Team: United NJ - Athletic big with good rebounding ability with exceptional defensive instincts used to consistently block and change shots.

Darren Tehe (2021) 6'0 swing High School: Bishop Loughlin HS (NY) AAU Team: NYC Chargers - Tehe can play mulitple positions and a good basketball IQ. He was the Chargers' top scorer over the weekeend. A coach's favorite.

Johnny Nisbet (2022) 5'5 guard High School: Bishop Loughlin HS (NY) AAU Team: NYC Chargers - A hard worker on defense and hits long three pointers at will. A Staten High Junior High All Star per his coach.

Nikko Trafton (2022) 5'10  guard High School: Bishop Loughlin HS (NY) AAU Team: NYC Chargers - A 13 year old playingh up in 15u and still shining brightly. Great jump shooter and not afraid to go to the rim. Good ball defense and roams the passing lanes like a hawk. A Staten High Junior High All Star per his coach.

Uriah Logan (2021) 5'10 point guard High School: St Peters HS (NY) AAU Team: NYC Chargers - A prolific scorer as a point guard, his squad looks to him to spark the offense. Shows indications to be the best prospect out of St Peters High since Chris Ledum. Averaged over 30 ppg this past winter in freshman ball.

By Mack Muller, Doug Scott and Emma Yavel

At both the House of Sports and Basketball City locations, Rumble had the 16u games running side by side with the 17u games, giving everyone an easy visual comparison in what a difference a year makes...or doesn't in some cases.  Here's some of the guys who would have been good on any court.

John Orogun (2020) 6’10 forward High School: Park Road (NY) AAU Team: City Rocks Albany - NBA body, will go to college for free. Strong, mobile and active. Runs the floor. Wins the position battle. Sweet, high-release accuracy from mid range. Eats opponents’ rim attacks for breakfast.

Declan Porter (2019) 6’6 wing High School: Carton High (NY) AAU Team: City Rocks Albany - D1 size and scoring ability. A top bucket getter from all three levels on a stacked CRA team. Active and competes to win.

John Garcia (2020) 6’3 swing High School: Mott Haven (NY) AAU Team: Blue Wave - Finds ways to make the ball go in the hoop. His jumpstop-pump and pivot game would make ‘Nova’s Jay Wright smile. Born to rebound. His excellent defensive stances and focus enabled him to guard multiple positions. A ball screen stuffer.

John Malinda (2020) 6’8 forward High School: Lynbrook HS (NY) AAU Team: Long Island Lightning-Wagner - “ Can’t coach wingspan” , ie he has the physical gifts to play this game. His next level coaches will be anxious to get him in the weight room ASAP in order to fully max out his potential. In the meantime, he is a long and active force on the court.

Quincy Ballard (2020) 6’8 forward High School: Henninger HS (NY) AAU Team: City Rocks Orange - Basketball gene pool lottery winner. D1 wing span to match D1 height. Athletic and intimidating. Owns the boards and protects the paint.

Aboubacar Gbane (2020) 6'3 wing High School: KIPP NYC (NY) AAU Team: King Hoops - "Slicing through..." was the number one description that comes to mind when watching Gbane. He is long, thin and athletic with a track man's ability to accelerate. His long and rapid strides fed an abilty to continuously lose defenders on blow by, Euro-steps and jump stop maneuvers. His very long arms also added to that hard-to-guard package.

Brian Tejada (2020) 6'0 guard High School: Wings Academy (NY) AAU Team: King Hoops - Tejada did not show us a jump shot or any three point shooting. At his height and position, having or not having those skills will be the key to his attractiveness at the next level. What he did show was the classic New York City guard's attack the rim with aggression and agility package. Get this kid in a practice gym, have him put up about a half million jump shot reps, and then we are gonna want to talk to him about his next level opportunities.

Peter Haas (2020) 6'5 swing  High School: Dalton School (NY) AAU Team: The City - Attention Ivy League coaches, we have a winner for you! D1 big guard size, skills and IQ. Strong body, mid range stop n pop, three point range, low post game. He is a mismatch nightmare, will stretch the opponents' bigs out away from their basket protecting comfort zone, and will over power their guards. Fun to watch.

Mark Engle (2020) 6'1 guard  High School: Dalton School (NY) AAU Team: The City - Another fun to watch talent. Active, yet smooth. Sweet looking 3 point shot, jump stop elusiveness, floater game elusiveness, absorb contact and ambidextrous finish elusiveness. Active and instinctive ball defender. Makes the smart kid plays.

Sean Ryan (2020) 6'0 guard  High School: Dalton School (NY) AAU Team: The City - We have a pretty good idea that the Patriot League and NESCAC type coaches are going to be spending some time at the Dalton School in the months ahead. That high academic school resume and high IQ play from Ryan and his two teammates above, will be irresistible to their needs. Ryan is Mr. Fundamental 2.0, a well-coached and mistake free "glue guy".

Kasani Hamilton (2020) 6'1 guard High School: Gompers HS (Bronx) AAU Team: The City -  It's all about those unusually long arms. A massive advantage in basketball, they get to places both offensively and defensively that normal body types can't compete with. Hamilton uses his to full advantage, combining them with an excellent motor and agility.

Kerwin Prince (2019) 6'6 swing High School: Crosby HS (CT) AAU Team: CT Select - The visual of Prince's physique alone will earn him a dozen or so Connecticut All State votes. He is blessed with the basketball body, big, strong, athletic and quick off of the floor. He combines that with a high release mid-range jumper, an explosive spin move game and a dominant ability to absorb contact. Major prospect.

Jack Greene (2019) 6'4 forward High School: Holy Cross HS (CT) AAU Team: CT Select - Greene  is a thick banger who will muscle the ball past you and into the hoop. He wins the battles for post position, as a scorer, a defender and a rebounder.

Malik Proctor (2020) 5'10 guard High School: New Milford HS (CT) AAU Team: CT Select - Proctor plays with comfort and poise, often with a sly smile on his face. He compensates for a lack of height with big time quicks, deep shooting range and a low to the ground change of direction agility. The handles the ball like he has mastered the yo-yo.

Khari Wilson-West (2020) 6’4 guard High School: Brunswick School (CT) AAU Team: Riverside Hawks - Tall, athletic guard with the ability to finish at the rim. Is very vocal on D and has quick hands. Needs to develop shot and bulk up in order to be successful in the college prospect-heavy Fairchester Athletic Association and at the next level. 

Jayvon Flowers (2020) 5’10 guard High School: St. Raymonds (Bronx) AAU Team: Riverside Hawks - Flat out hustler who can finish at the rim. Has a solid handle and jump-shot.

Xavier Wilson (2018) - 6’7 forward High School: Archbishop Stepinac HS (NY) AAU Team: Riverside Hawks - Not afraid to draw the foul and compliments that by being an accurate free throw shooter. Aggressive down low in the paint. Above average defender. Ivy leagues showing interest in him already. Uses height to his advantage.

Elijahuon Wilson (2020) 6’0 point guard High School: Unity Prep (Brooklyn) AAU Team: Brooklyn Ballers -  One of the best players on the court, Wilson plays with tremendous heart and is a floor general. Has a good handle and can get to the rim to draw contact. 

Aidan Hilderbrand (2020) 6’2 guard High School: John Jay High (East Fishkill, NY) AAU Team: Lightning -  An athletic guard with a solid jump-shot. Is very active and effective on defense. Needs to develop a better handle. 

Kobi Agard (2020) 5’9 guard High School: Greens Farms Academy (CT)  AAU Team: Peace - Very crafty PG with a great handle. Has a high basketball IQ and winning attitude. Fantastic court-vision and finds the open man. Should be an impact player at Greens Farms Academy as an upperclassman

Jake Thaw (2020) 5’10 guard High School: Staples HS (CT) AAU Team: Peace - An active, defensive player who always has his hands up. Can finish at the rim. Improving on jump-shot will make him valuable for Staples in 2019.

Akim Joseph (2021) 6’2 swing High School Trinity Catholic (CT) AAU Team: Peace – a young player, playing up, but has a strong body and is not afraid of contact. Improving on conditioning would help him.

Quinn Kelly (2020) 6’0 guard High School: Rye HS (NY) AAU Team: Peace - Scorer with a great shot. Dives on loose balls and is vocal on the court. Needs to get stronger for the next level.

Adam Cisse (2019) 6’7 forward High School: Cardinal Hayes HS (NY) AAU Team: NY Gauchos - Cisse is a shot blocking machine! It seems like every shot the opposing team puts up, Cisse was right there as the pesky defender. Besides being an avid defender, Cisse does a fair share of work on offense in the paint. Lean build, good athleticism for a big guy. 

Joel Simpson (2019) 5’9 guard High School: Iona Prep (NY) AAU Team: NY Gauchos - a strong point guard who is really developing as a ball player. Cashing in important minutes while hitting shots from all over the court. Plays an above average defensive game as well. 

Jonah Bevacqua (2019) 6'8 center High School: Warwick Valley AAU Team: O.C. Kings - One of the more craftier bigs in the tournament, lacks physical build, but makes up for it with length and understanding of how to properly get vertical while protecting rim. Adding to his great footwork and ability to finish around the rim, can also step out to short corner and consistently knock 'em down.

Kevin Stein  (2020) 6'3 swing High School: Chester Academy (NY) AAU Team: O.C. Kings - The most versatile player on his team - can get his by being isolated on the block, hitting open jumpers, or rebounding the ball himself and getting out in transition  to lead the break. Clearly the best facilitator on his team, as well as seemingly having all the tools to lead his team by example, and vocally.

Elijah Rosenthal (2020) 6'0 guard High School: Wallenpaupack Area AAU Team: O.C. Kings One of the more active defenders from the day. Great knack for being in the right place at the right time. Confident ball handler, with under rated athleticism - as we saw him finish among the trees several times. Caught fire and showed off his superior shooting stroke on several occasions this weekend.

Max Edwards (2020) 6'4 guard High School: Bunnel HS (CT) AAU Team: CT Premier - This kid is special, great athlete, played above the rim all tournament long. Was able to get by any defender put in front of him and showed the ability to knock down the 3 point shot. Has an offer from Hostra already, more expected to come.

Max Mitchell (2020) 6'4 wing High School: Greens Farms Academy (CT) AAU Team: CT Premier - A catch n shoot, knock down 3 point shooter. When overplayed by the defense, showed an ability to get past his defender...and create shots for others. Should be an impact player as an upper classman.

Brendan McMahon (2020) 5'8 guard High School: Fairfield Warde (CT) AAU Team: CT Premier - A crafty point guard with unlimited range. Once he develops the ability to create shots for others, he will be very valuable.

Romello Wright (2020) 5'10 guard High School: Brentwood High (NY) AAU Team: Titans - Crafty combo guard with 3 point shooting range and an excellent mid-range pull up. Outstanding position defender. Improved ball handling, especially with his left hand, would elevate his game.

Darnell Evans (2020) 5'10 guard High School: Wyandanch HS (CT) AAU Team: Titans - A lightning quick guard with 3 point range and blow-by capability. Improved strength and the development of a midrange game will up his value.

Jake Daly (2020) 6’3 point guard High School: Millbrook HS (NY) AAU Team: Reign LMC Athletics - Has the complete game: a good handle, finishes at rim, mid-range jumper over smaller guards and is a three point shooter with a high basketball IQ.

Dylan Craft (2020) 6’7 forward High School: FDR HS (Hyde Park, NY) AAU Team: Reign LMC Athletics -  A defensive stopper who tracks rebounds well. Still growing into his great height, plays with a no-stop attitude.

Jordaine Dawkinson (2021) guard High School: Saint Mary’s HS (NY) AAU Team: Team NYC - Excellent court vision. Causes tons of steals with his quick hands. 

Romello Faison (2021) 5’11 guard High School: Martin Luther King HS (NY) AAU Team: Team NYC - a straight up sharpshooter. Do not leave him open! Needs to put more effort in on the defensive end, such as not being too early on his leak outs. 

Tariq Robinson (2021) 5’11 guard High School: Martin Luther King HS (NY) AAU Team: Team NYC  - a strong finisher with a good, physical body.

Julian Soumaoro (2020) 5’10 guard High School: Cardinal Hayes HS (NY) AAU Team: Castle Athletics – Small,  crafty guard who can shoot the lights out. Had a signature moment in the Semis over City Rocks EYBL 16U team in which he hit five threes in the second half to help Castle win 63-46.

Truth Harris (2020) 6’0 guard High School: Trinity Pawling AAU Team: Castle Athletics - Dynamic and explosive combo guard. Able to play on or off the ball, has a strong mid-range game but also has the ability to play way above the rim.

Joe Munden (2020) 6’3 guard High School: Monsignor Scanlan (NY) AAU Team: Castle Athletics - Underrated high flying guard, probably one of the best two ways players in the class. Versatile guard both on offense and defense as in he is able to handle the point, make plays for others and for himself while also being able to defend multiple positions on the floor.

Shemani Fuller (2020) 6’7 forward High School: Cardinal Hayes (NY) AAU Team: Castle Athletics - A long and athletic wing with tons of upside. Just starting to scratch the surface of his potential. Has the ability to play inside or out as well as guarding on the perimeter or in the paint. Still needs to continue to develop offensively but shows flashes of how good he can be. 

Jack Fricka (2020) 6'3 swing High School:  West Potomac HS (VA)  AAU Team:  NOVA Cavaliers - Lin.  The versatile wing player from Alexandria, VA had a great weekend for the Cavaliers.  Fricka averaged a team-high 12.5ppg for the tournament and led NOVA to 3-1 record at the Rumble.  Tough-nosed player with ability to drive and hit perimeter shots from the outside.  Definitely a player to watch in the Class of 2020 in the Northern VA.

Simon Weeren (2020) 6'1 point guard  High School:  Riverside HS (VA)  AAU Team:  NOVA Cavaliers - Lin.  The floor general for the Cavs had a terrific tournament at the Rumble.  Athletic, strong, and ability to defend 4 different positions.  His play-making skill creates easy shots for his teammates and he was a menace on the defensive end all weekend long.  Showed poise on the floor and led the team to multiple victories for the 16u Cavs team.

Mo Radcliffe (2020) 5'9 guard High School: Ithaca High (NY) AAU Team: Ithaca Elite - A solid shooter, poised and competitive ball handler who rarely gets flustered. A tenacious defender, which led to a point win over the LI Lightning.

Ja'lyn Griffin (2020) 6'0 guard High School: Ithaca High (NY) AAU Team: Ithaca Elite - A physical guard with shifty moves, a knack for scoring, solid court vision. Scores from all three levels on the floor. He was highly productive in a tough game vs a strong City Rocks EYBL team.

Simon Barley (2020) 6'2 guard High School: Ithaca High (NY) AAU Team: Ithaca Elite - A wiry athlete who plays with a relentless motor. Scores around the rim with ease and has a solid mid-range jumper. Long arms helps make him a solid defender

Kidtrell Blocker (2020) 6'4 wing High School: Aquinas Institute (NY) AAU Team: Roc City Rocks - Explosive wing player that can finish with ease above the rim, great finisher in transition. Best in transition style offense, but capable of filling it up in the half court as well, range out to 23 feetCapable defender and rebounder.

Steven Mahar Jr  (2020) 6'6 forward High School: Aquinas Institute (NY)  AAU Team: Roc City Rocks - – Blossoming big man. Showed the ability to dominate the defensive glass and was a tough rebounder and rim protector.  Still has limited offensive game, but a decent FT shooter. Has the ability to dunk with authority in limited space.

Kobe Long  (2020) 6'1 guard High School: McQuaid Jesuit (NY)  AAU Team: Roc City Rocks - Dynamic combo guard, a playmaking scorer with ability to produce points in a multitude of ways.  Great shooter who spreads floor to 26ft. Excellent lead guard in transition, outstanding ability to advance the basketball, and make the extra pass. A style of play makes those around him better. Excellent on-ball defender. Per his coach, he is known for making big shots in big moments; won 2018 Section V AA Championship, won 2018 District Regional Championship, advanced to AA State Final Four. Avg 15 ppg as Sophomore, on pace to reach 1,000 points as a junior. 2nd Team All-City; 3-Time All-Gym Rat tourney selection.

Melvin Council Jr  (2020) 6'2 point guard High School: Greece Athena (NY) AAU Team: Roc City Rocks - Dynamic PG twho can dominate a game on both ends of the floor. Relentless motor with outstanding hand action on the defensive end, a willing, aggressive defender, outstanding off the ball.  Great ball handler that has an ability to finish with both hands, excellent in transition, capable 3 point shooter with the ability to get to the basket at will.  Plays with great passion.  Per his coach, he was the MVP of the 2018 Gym Rat tournament and a 3-Time All-Gym Rat Selection.

Abdias “Speedy” Carcamo (2020) 5’9 guard High School: Archbishop Malloy HS (NY) AAU Team: PSA Cardinals. - “Speedy” is a suitable nickname for Carcamo. He zips down the court and zigzags through defenders to receive passes and generate points for the men on the floor. Speedy puts up some big scoring numbers but his specialty is in his assists. 

Joe Toussaint (2019) 5’9 guard High School: Cardinal Hayes HS (NY) AAU Team: PSA Cardinals - Seen at a couple of our RTB-covered events, Toussaint is now getting closer and closer to recruitment. His top interests are from Fordham, Iona Prep, Drexel, Dayton, and UMass Amherst for now. Excellent speed and decent shot range. 

Collins Onyeike (2019) 6’4 swing – High School: Valley Stream North HS AAU Team: NY Gauchos - Onyeike is a very versatile player on the floor. He can cash in some minutes as a guard or as a big guy down low. Valuable tool for his HS squad as well as the Gauchos. With a lean build, Onyeike is able to accomplish so much in terms of athleticism and endurance. 

By Mack Muller, Doug Scott and Emma Yavel

Despite competing with various things like finals week, regency tests, graduations, the start of prep school summer breaks, and great weather outdoors, Jim Hart's Rumble in the Bronx has always drawn massive levels of talent from all over. This year was no exception. 

This weekend is not a D1 live period, so D1college coaches were not in the building, but many of their proxies, in the form of scouting agencies were. That included the legendary NYC scout, Tom Konchalski who was parked at the Basketball City court all day long. The D3 coaches were there as well, with some of them actually working the event as Rumble staff.

The 17u division, being the players closest to college harvest age, was as usual of great interest. Here's some of the guys who caught our review. 

Carius Key (2019) 6’3 guard High School: Irving McArthur HS (TX) AAU Team: Crab5 Elite - An outside linebacker’s body, a running back’s ability to hit the hole, and a shooting guard’s range and release point. His ability to elevate stuffs many basket drives.

Austin Brewer (2020) 6’9 forward High School: Abilene Wylie HS (TX) AAU Team: Crab5 Elite - C5E should be imposing again next year, when Brewer, a sophomore repeats with them. A big man who can run the floor and has great presence in the lane. A face up scorer. A killer on the boards and as a mobile shot blocker.

Jarius Hicklen (2019) 6’3 guard High School: Desoto HS (TX) AAU Team: Crab5 Elite - A combo guard who can score off of the dribble, stop n pop in the midrange and stretch them out from three ball range. Solid on defense.

Jalen Gorhem (2019) 6’5 guard High School: York CDS (PA) AAU Team: York Ballers - custom-built to play today’s position less game...on both ends of the floor. Fast off the ground for rebounds, tenacious in transition defense. Well coached on the fundamentals. If he adds a three ball threat to his game, he will be an All Conference player at the next level.

Jacob Toppin (2018) 6’5 swing High School: Ossining HS (NY) AAU Team: Minutemen NYC - Played the forward on his undersized team, but but projects to be a big guard at the next level. Great basketball length and wing span, athletic and mobile. Quick off the floor and a nose for the rebound. Pretty, high-release jump shot.

Dylan Wusu (2019) 6’3 wing High School: Sacred Heart (NY) AAU Team: Minutemen NYC - Broad shouldered strength. Sweet “hand down - man down” ability. When his shot is challenged, he is happy to power by with either hand.

Isaac Butler (2019) 6’1 guard High School: Ithaca HS (NY) AAU Team: GIAC Firebirds - Wears the #23 like he earned it. I.e., Best player on the squad status. Scored the ball frequently and from multiple places on the floor. Plays with energy and pride.

Tyler Mitchell (2018) 6’0 guard High School: All Hallows (NY) AAU Team: Minutemen NYC - “ Shooter!” A lefty with both lethal range and excellent shot-selection judgement. Good motor in his defensive rotations, will take the charge from the help read and rotate.

Jacoby Decker (2019) 5’9 point guard High School: Bossier High (LA) AAU Team: Louisiana Select Team Milsap - “ Playmaker” Short but power-packed. Key to making a transition offense over-achieve. Will go under and past the help defense rotations. Ambidextrous ability to finish. A true pest in the defensive dribble and passing lanes. Will win games for his team.

Dom Laffitte (2019) 6’1 guard High School: Leman Manhattan Prep (NY) AAU Team: King Hoops - Fearless, gymnastic and ambidextrous basket driver, both as a scorer and a kick out assist man. Elusive in his stop n go, head fake, change of direction arsenal of moves. Will make the Floor Burn Hall of Fame someday.

Zach Nedell (2019) 5'11 guard High School: Brooklyn Tech (NY) AAU Team: King Hoops - Nedell is a shoot first PG with capabilities of filling it up quickly. He can run a team, showing good leadership qualities. He is strongest coming off of ball screens and getting his shot off.

Zach Hayn (2019) 6'0 guard High School: Xaverian HS (Brooklyn) AAU Team: King Hoops -  Hayyn is effective both with the ball and off the ball. His coach says he is the most coachable player in the program, and an extention of the coach on the floor. He is a solid shooter and a capable defender.

Calvin Goodwin (2018) 6’0 guard High School: New Britain HS (CT) AAU Team: New England Playaz South - Has some shake n bake in his offensive attack, attacks the gaps as he should. Nice high release point on the deep ball. Competes on defense, quick into the passing lanes.

Jaelen Gallimore (2018) 6’8 forward High School: Basich HS (CT) AAU Team: Gauchos -Turkson - Long and active rim defender who just completely closes down the opponents’ drive to the hoop game. Also rebounds a lot with those same physical advantages. On the offensive end, he picks up all the hustling big man points. If he would add the low post seal and back to the basket scoring element, he would be the full package as a collegiate big.

Cameron Odidi (2018) 6’3 guard High School: All Hallows (Bronx) AAU Team: Gauchos - Turkson = Nice big guard body, who can stick the three. Overwhelms smaller guards and collects fouls on them on every basket drive.

Jordan Gallimore (2019) 6’6 wing High School: Basich HS (CT) AAU Team: Gauchos -Turkson - Strong and willful. Tremendous athlete that completely controls the floor. Pesky defense and controls the offensive ball with confidence. If he will add the three ball to his nice floater game, he could create matchup problems at the next level.

Michael  Green (2019) 5'10, point guard High School: Mt. Saint Michaels/(Bronx) AAU Team: NYC Gauchos - Maestro of the floor, can easily break press with handle and control. Good Shooter and finisher around the rim, finds teammates for easy baskets. Goods on ball defender from end to end.

Nicholas Johnson (2019) 6'3 swing High School: All Hallows (Bronx) AAU Team: NYC Gauchos - Crafty left hander who finds a way to the basket by any means necessary Draws fouls and/or scores drawing a foul and can bury the jump shot. He can guard from 1-4 with his hunger for the ball.

Luke Townsend (2019) 6'0 guard High School: Holy Cross HS (Queens) AAU Team: LI Lightning - Luke was the most successful long ball shooter that we saw all day.  He and his teammates did a great job finding him with the ball before the defense did. Obviously a gym rat, competed on defense like one as well.

Brandon Taylor (2020) 5'10 guard High School: Coppel HS (TX) AAU Team: Dallas Hoyas - Trying to avoid the temptation to go Texas gun slinger metaphor here, but Taylor is a lethal sniper.  The compact built lefty has a gorgeous, high arcing shot delivery that splashes the nets.

Antonio Taylor (2021) 6'1 guard High School: Peekskill HS (NY) AAU Team: East Coast Panthers - Taylor is a very gifted three sport athlete, a freshman who was just blowing by 17u defenders at will. He plays the game like anyone who has those gifts. The issue with three sport athletes in basketball, is that they never have the time to invest in their jump shot skills. At the high school level, they don't need to. But if its hoops, that Taylor chooses as his path to a free college education, then he will need to make that investment

Jordan Kellier (2018) 6'4 guard High School: Redemption Christian Academy (MA) AAU Team: NY Lightning - If we had to guess, Kellier's explosive lift has enabled himself to dunk the basketball since he was about 12 years old. This native Jamaican combines that lift and agility into a Euro-step and cross-step package that is unguardable. We get to watch his dunkfest show a lot because of his predatory skills in the passing lanes fuels turnover run-out opportunities.

Quentar Taylor (2020) 5’10 point guard High School: Trumbull HS (CT) AAU Team: CT Premier - A quick, physically well-built PG. Very effective at driving to the rim and drawing contact. Needs to increase defensive intensity. College coaches will need to see more three point shot production.

Timmond Williams (2019) 6’3 guard  High School: Trumbull HS (CT) AAU Team: CT Premier - Lengthy sharpshooter. Can also protect the rim very well. If he hits the weight room, college coaches will call.

Quintin Sneed Lott 6’2 (2019) swing High School: Kolbe Cathedral HS (CT) AAU Team: CT Premier -  Very strong and unafraid of contact. Loves to take charges and defend the post. Vocal on defense.

Gavin Green (2020) 6’3 forward High School: St. Joseph HS (CT) AAU Team: CT Premier - Strong defensive player with a nice handle. Also has good post moves and attacks the basket. Should have a great season in FCIAC play. 

Joe Girard 6’1 guard High School: Glens Falls HS (NY) AAU Team: City Rocks EYBL -  NY State’s all-time leading scorer as just a junior. Sharpshooter who Avg. 50 PPG last season. High-Major D1 recruit with offers from Duke, Villanova, Michigan and Syracuse. 

Posh Alexander (2020) 5’10 guard High School:  Our Savior Lutheran HS  AAU Team: NY Lightning - Alexander is a sophomore playing on a 17U squad. This guy has some serious talent. Already catching the eyes of many D1 scouts, Alexander continued to show off his multi-tool arsenal this weekend in NYC. 

Anthony Nelson (2018) 6’4 guard High School: South Kent (CT) AAU Team: NY Lightning - Nelson is a big shot 2018 prospect who committed to Seton Hall at the end of last year. Excellent at penetrating and drawing the foul. Aggressive true point guard - generates points for players down low. 

Zach Light (2018) - 6’3 guard High School: Northfield Mount Hermon HS (MA)  AAU Team: NY Lightning (17U) - (verbally committed to Colgate) - Smart player, tactical defender, selfless player. After garnering interest from a variety of schools, Light has committed to play for Colgate in the fall. He is expected to add a huge defensive element to their game. 

Jordan Dingle (2019) 6’3 guard High School: Blair Academy (NJ) AAU Team: NY Lightning - Dingle is playing a year up and already has offers from: Boston University, St. Louis University, Penn, Princeton, and Dartmouth. Those are impressive offers for a 16 year old high school ball player. He has 3-point range, excellent ball handling skills, and shoots from everywhere on the court. Basically, he is a monster on offense. 

Jared Rhoden (2018) 6’6 guard High School:  Our Savior Lutheran HS AAU Team: NY Lightning - Along with his teammate Nelson, Rhoden recently committed to Seton Hall for this fall. Rhoden is not only expected to be the prototypical position-less weapon that is typifying today’s college game.

Jade Tse (2019) 6'2 point guard Post Grad: Deerfield Academy (MA) AAU Team: 60 Elite - Tse runs his team with vision, IQ and vocal leadership. Loves to defend the opponent's best player. Has Ivy League grades and test scores. Holds multiple offers including Manhattan and Yale.

Derrick Paige (2019) 6'4 guard High School: McCreary Central HS (KY) AAU Team: 60 Elite - Per his coach, Paige has only played two years of varsity basketball, but is getting better every day due to great work ethic. He is a big time two guard prospect, very explosive and can create for others.

David Balfour (2019) 6'7 forward High School: Next Level Prep (KS) AAU Team: 60 Elite - A big time motor and D1 athleticism. Coachable and can shoot the 15 footer. Major prospect.

Luis Kortwright (2019) 6'3 point guard High School: St Raymonds (NY) AAU Team: 60 Elite - A big point guard with a high IQ and can run his team. He will dunk on you.

Gabe Johnson (2019) 5'9 point guard High School: Union City HS (NJ) AAU Team: Team Rohan Elite - A rising star at the PG position. He is quick off of the dribble, can shoot the 3 well and run a team. Needs to work on his ball defense and his midrange scoring.

Andrew Olden (2020) 6'4 wing High School: St Joseph HS (NJ) AAU Team: Team Rohan Elite - A high energy sophomore playing up a year to speed his development. Good mid-range shot, a solid rebounder with a IQ for the game. Needs to upgrade his handle to raise his stock even further.

Xavier Wilson (2018) - 6’7 forward High School: Archbishop Stepinac HS (NY) AAU Team: Riverside Hawks - Not afraid to draw the foul and compliments that by being an accurate free throw shooter. Aggressive down low in the paint. Above average defender. Ivy leagues showing interest in him already. Uses height to his advantage.

Valdir Manuel (2018) 6’9 center High School: The Patrick School (NJ) AAU Team: NE Playaz - Big guy who controls the game on defensive blocks. Manuel makes the game look easy on offense - and maybe it is when you’re 6’9”, but he makes it work well. 

Ethan Wright (2018) 6’2 guard High School: Newton North HS (MA) AAU Team: NE Playaz - (verbally committed to Princeton) Wright is verbally committed to Princeton University in the fall. Wright not only succeeds on the basketball court but also in the classroom as well. Excellent mechanics and great execution of shots on the floor. 

Moses Flowers (2019) 6’1 guard High School: Thayer Academy HS (MA) AAU Team: NE Playaz - Excellent guard who control the point, never ceases to amaze with his dribbling and passing abilities. Executes accurate shots from all over the floor. Can finish.

By Emma Yavel

Early summer team camps are highly anticipated events for high school basketball coaches. It's like Christmas morning to them, in that they are unwrapping the new toys that they will be getting to play with for the year. They get to see the type of talent mix that they have, and how the team dynamic is shaping up. It gets the wheels turning full speed in their coach's brains. 

The Forham Team camp is also great for RecruitTheBronx in that we get to jump in a see a bunch of teams from the very middle of our coverage area.  Below we profile some of the guys who caught our eye.

Alex Siapandes (2019) - 6’1” (guard) - Harrison HS. Excellent 3-point range shot. Great asset to the team both offensively and defensively. Not afraid to be aggressive in the paint. Excellent footwork and a great team leader. 

Josh Cooper (2020) - 5’7” (guard) - Harrison HS. This guy is an up and coming player. Once he gets some more minutes you’ll start seeing him shine more. Great overall athlete, gritty and aggressive. Impressive raw talent.

Tyler Menniti (2018) - 5’11” (guard) - Harrison HS.This guy is no rookie to the game. Puts up great offensive numbers and holds his own on the defensive end. If this guy isn’t already recruited, he would be a great asset to any solid basketball roster in the fall. Great ball handles and mid-range shot. 

Jack Shannon (2019) - 6’8” (forward) - Iona Prep.This tall powerhouse forward showed off his stardom this week at Fordham! Using his height to his advantage, Shannon was able to snag rebounds and show his athleticism to those on and off the court. 

Spencer Curto (2019) - 6’4” (guard) - Iona Prep. Great team player on and off the court with a good attitude. Shows great ball handling skills all over the court. Strong assist game. 

Jack Feeley (2018) - 6’4” (forward) - Iona Prep. Clutch veteran player getting in his last few games as a HS basketball player. Hopefully, the fall has college ball in store for him! Great down-low guy and good mid-range. 

Ethan Renner (2019) - 5’10” (guard) - Mamaroneck HS. Tremendous athlete (plays 2 sports, basketball and baseball). Captain of the squad. Great leader on the court and sets a great example for the younger guys out there. Has range and his a lot of mid-range shots. Reliable player. 

Tommy Martin (2019) - 5’11” (guard) - Mamaroneck HS. Top scorer on the squad. Excellent shot from all over the court. Tall and lean body type allows him to have good movement on the court. Martin is a great asset to the squad. 

Shane Martinsen (2020) - 6’2” (guard, forward) - John Jay HS. One of top standouts this week at Fordham. Young guy who plays with maturity. One of the top scorers on his team - averaging over 10 ppg in the 2017-18 regular season. Martinsen is certainly a guy to watch out for in the next few years. 

Dean Ford (2019) - 5’10” (guard) - John Jay HS. Another hot shooter for John Jay. Ford is a 3-sport athlete and it really shows on the court. Between his speed and his natural athletic ability it is hard to miss him on the court. His sheer basketball talent is fun to watch. 

Avni Mustafaj (2019) - 6’1” (guard, wing) - Fordham Prep HS .Captain and leader on the court. Has great range and sheer defensive talent. Agile and quick on the court. Great dribbling technique and good at the free-throw line. 

Niall McStay (2018) - 6’6” (forward) - Fordham Prep HS. Hot shooter that can play 1-4 if needed. Naturally down low player. Excellent athleticism. 

Emmanuel Owusu (2019) - 6’3” (forward) - Palisades Prep HS . Has clearly put in tons of work on shot reps. Excellent shot accuracy and range. Good low post spin moves. Great potential to play at the next level

Isaiah Bray (2021) - 5’10” (guard) - Palisades Prep HS. Tremendous young talent. Only freshman starter on the squad getting consistent work. Great range from all ends of the court. Excellent ball handling skills - it’s obvious he works on his dribbling. Bray is going to be something special in the upcoming years. 

Jakye Oliver (2019) - 6’2” (guard) - Palisades Prep HS. Another great player on the Palisades Prep squad. Great offensive and defensive talent. Ability to nail down tough shots under pressure. Gritty and aggressive player all around. 

Spencer McCann (2018) - 6’6” (forward) - Briarcliff HS. Spectacular athlete. Looks more serious about baseball, but is also a solid basketball player. Averaged 8 ppg and 6.5 rig in the 2017-18 season. Solid big man down low, plays his position well. 

Jackson Gonseth (2018) - 6’5” (forward) - Briarcliff HS. Great down-low and on the free throw line. Will put up a lot of points just because he overpowers the guys who defend him in the box. 

Jack Ryan (2018) - 6’3” (guard) - Briarcliff HS. Ryan is fun to watch. He shows off tremendous raw talent on the court - stuff you don’t see from the average 17 year old. He takes the ball to the rim, can shoot the 3, but will also pass to the open teammate. 

Miles Jones (2019) - 6’1” (guard) - Briarcliff HS. Excellent gritty player who is excellent on both offense and defense. He’s out there with one sole purpose: to play and win. A natural leader of the team. Has excellent ball handling skills and can shoot an accurate mid-range shot.

Marc Nilaj (2019) - 6’4” (guard) - Salesian HS. Excellent leaper, good short range jump shot and very good rebounder. He is an excellent student and very coachable. Nilaj is a multi-sport athlete - an excellent volleyball player.

Breyson Reyes (2020) - 6’4” (guard) - Salesian HS. Reyes is 6’4” and still growing. Huge up side potential - only playing basketball for 2 years. Excellent attitude on the court. Also noteworthy is Reyes is ranked #1 in the U.S. in karate in his age group. Above average student. 

Joel Garcia (2019) - 5’10” (guard) - Salesian HS. Starting point guard for the squad. Very good distributor of the basketball and gets to the rim really well. An excellent student and very positive attitude. Needs work on his outside shooting.

Nokio Kennedy (2020) - 5’8” (guard) - Salesian HS. Very coachable '2’ guard on the squad. One of the best defenders in the city. Very good stationary shooter and has quickness all around the court. 

Steven Rice (2020) - 6’0” (guard) - Salesian HS . An excellent student and a very high basketball IQ. Very underated and a great team player. Has all the tools must work on scoring the basketball. Very unselfish - excellent defender. Very good leader on and off the court

By Dave Cordova

RecruitTheBronx was at Long Island Lutheran Middle and High School in the Brookville section of Long Island on Saturday for the first annual, “The Collision” tournament, which was put together by Jay David, the director/coach of the New York Jayhawks. Several AAU programs from the tri-state area came out to do battle. Here are the notable players who stood out this weekend:

Isaiah Brock (2020) 6-0 High School: Uniondale AAU Team: Rough Ryders - Very good at facilitating for teammates. Very adept on defense. Has to get stronger physically. Great shot selection.

Volkan Levant  (2020) 5-11 High School: Port Washington AAU Team: Rough Ryders - Lightning-fast guard that has a lot of energy. Can score when left open. 

Jose Cuello  (2020) 6-0 High School:Wings Academy AAU Team​:  NY Jayhawks Silver - Knows how to hustle for loose balls. Looks to pass teammates the ball. Great facilitator. Always quick and adept when playing defense.

Rami Gaines-Holmes (2019) 5-11 High School: North Babylon High School AAU Team​: Boys 2 Men - Tenacious defender. High-energy player. Very fast on both ends of the court. Good at finding teammates for passes. Needs to be able to finish at the basket.

Tyler St. Furcy (2019) 6-4  High School: Lawrence Woodmere Academy AAU Team​: Rising Stars- Very aggressive on defense. Great at going to the hole. Great at pressuring the ball and creating turnovers.  Has good size. Has a nice jumpshot.

Pierce Perry (2018) 6-6 High School: St. Mary’s High School  AAU Team​: Rising Stars - An athletic forward with good post moves. Skilled when going to the basket. Needs to develop jumper.

Lawrence Forman (2019)  6-9  High School: St. Thomas More School (CT) AAU Team​: Rising Stars - A tall player that has potential. Blocks shots. Intimidates opposing players with size. Needs more of a post game on offense. Good rebounder.

Christopher Arcidiacono (2018) 6-4  High School: Neshaminy High School  AAU Team​: Philly Pride  -Knows how to facilitate the ball to teammates. Runs the floor well. Needs to cut down on turnovers. Has a nice shooting touch.

Tyree Corbett (2018) 6-6 High School: Lincoln High School AAU Team​: Philly Pride  - Attacks the basket efficiently. Needs to add a lot of muscle to frame. Has a lot of toughness.

Justin Evans (2018)  6-7 High School: Cheshire Academy (CT) AAU Team​: NY Jayhawks Silver 17u - Runs the floor well on both ends of the court. Isn’t afraid of contact and is able to draw fouls. Needs to improve on defense.

Terry Roberts (2018)  6-2  High School: Lincoln High School AAU Team​: NY Jayhawks Silver 17u - Although he has a small frame, he plays bigger than that. Plays above the rim. Very fast.

Zion Styles (2019)  6-3  High School: Uniondale High School AAU Team​: NY Jayhawks Gold 17u - A guard that is a ferocious defender. Has some explosion in his game.

Chris Ledlum (2019) 6-7 High School: St. Peter’s High School AAU Team​: NY Jayhawks Gold 17u - An explosive forward who attacks the rim. A potent scoring threat. A very physical player. Can play all three forward positions. Known for being a shot-blocker.

Quintin Williams (2019) 6-2  High School: Knox School AAU Team​: Boys 2 Men - Knows how attack the basket. Dangerous three-point shooter. Needs to develop a pull-up jumper. Fearless when going to the hole.

Michael O’Connell (2020) 6-2 High School: Chaminade High School AAU Team​: Rising Stars - Hustles for any loose ball. Capable of shooting from long range. Has to be able to absorb contact better when going to the basket.

Jaquan Carlos (2021)  5-10 High School:Thomas Jefferson Campus AAU Team​: New Heights - Speedy guard that can control team. Has a scorer’s mentality. Has to have a better outside shot.

Tyson Walker (2019) 5-10  High School: New Hampton School (MA) AAU Team​: New Heights - A facilitator that sets his teammates up for baskets. Smart at reading defenses. Knows how to control tempo of game.

Idan Tretout  (2019) 6-4  High School: Wilbraham & Monson Academy (MA)  AAU Team​: New Heights - A player that does everything on the court. A fierce rebounder. Boxes out against taller players for rebounds. Defensive stopper.

Josh Pierre-Louis (2019) 6-3 High School:Roselle Catholic High School (NJ)  AAU Team​: SportsU - A skilled player that has a good jumpshot. Has great athleticism. Dangerous from three-point range. Very quick on defense.

Payton Hudson (2018) 6-0 High School:  Our Saviour Lutheran School  AAU Team​: NY Dragons - Diminutive guard that can hold his own on the court. Pass-first point guard that sets teammates up for baskets. Needs to develop a jumpshot from long-range.

For more information, click on http://www.princetonsportscamps.com/camps/boysbasketball.htm

By Brett Wilson @brettwilson715

RecruitTheBronx.com always finds it fruitful in attending the Rumble in the Bronx 14u games each year. It gives us a great early look at many of the rising freshman who we will become very familar with over the next four years. Here's some of the Top Performers that we caught this weekend.

Ailill Walsh 2022 6'1 small forward High School: Horace Mann AAU Team: King Hoops - Aggressive and active player. Good ball handle. Can shoot and finish

Isaiah Dorsey 2022 5'8 guard High School: Wadleigh HS - AAU Team: King Hoops - active defensive player. Can break an opponent down with his offensive moves. Average shooter.

Mike Atta 2022 6'3 small forward High School: Pope John (NJ) AAU Team: Rise As One - versatile player. Decent passer. Sees the court. Very coachable on the court.

Josh Haskell 2022 6'5 wing High School: Franklinville HS (NY) AAU Team: Albany City Rocks Black - Versatile player. Can play the post and perimeter. Good shooter with the ability to create his shot. Good defender

JJ Starling 2022 6'2 guard High School: Baldwinsville HS (NY) AAU Team: Albany City Rocks Black  - gets to the basket and has the ability to play above the rim. Good speed.

Odanis Done 2022 6'1 point guard High School: Manhattan Center  AAU Team: Castle Athletics- solid perimeter player. Plays good all around game. Can dribble and get others involved.

Efrain Davila 2022 5'10 guard High School: Our Savior Lutheran AAU Team: Castle Athletics - good shooter. Good shot selection in pick-n-roll. Good IQ

Jaden Fleming 2021 6'1 point guard High School: Metropolitan Expo of Learning AAU Team: Rising Stars - big guard has court awareness. Can rebound and play defense. Good with his dribble.

Chris Jones 2022 6'2 point guard High School: St. Lukes School (CT) AAU Team: CT PHD - explosive offensive players. Good IQ. Can hit the mid range shots.

Mike Olinvencia Jr 2022 6'1 guard High School: Kolbe Cathedral(CT) AAU Team: CT PHD - can shoot the mid range and 3pt shot. Good court vision. Good passer.

Jaquan Kirkland 2022 6'3 wing High School: Strafford HS (CT) AAU Team: CT PHD - athletic player. Good mid range shot. Can be a good rebounder

Richard Vaquero 2022 5'11  guard High School: Mepham HS (NJ) AAU Team: North Jersey Blast- attacks the basket. Good on the ball defender. Decent ball handle

Richard Nweke 2022 6'7 center High School: The Dwight School (NY) AAU Team: PSA Honey Bagers - good size and strength. Good rebounder. Average footwork

Noah Best 2022 6'0 guard High School: Unknown AAU Team: PSA Honey Bagers - good ball handler. Can finish around the basket. Can be a good defender.

Mekhi Conner 2023 5'5  point guard High School: Unknown/Elm City Middle School AAU Team: Elm City Elite - good feel for the game. Good court vision. Makes others and can score. Can make passes.

Reid Durcharme 2023 6'2 guard High School: Nobles & Greenhough (MA) AAU Team: Boston Bobcats - good catch and shooter and can create space for shots. High motor. Nice size makes him an above average rebounder.

Drew Herer 2022 5'11 guard High School: Beaver Country Day (MA)  AAU Team: Boston Bobcats - good shooter. Can handle the ball. Can play combo because of his passing abilities.

Maury Ward 2022 5'7 guard  High School: Fordham Prep (NY)  AAU Team: Riverside Hawks - athletic, hard playing and smart. Eg., his team down 3, with only seconds remaining, he baits the defender into fouling his 3 point attempt.  Runs the floor well, finishes through contact. 

Joey Medlin 2022 6'5 power forward  High School: Archbishop Molloy (NY)  AAU Team: Riverside Hawks - classic, strong-man Big. Signature play is creating space for the offensive rebound/put back, then getting himself fouled on the and-one. Left handed, low post game also made him a foul-magnet.

Nicholas Paladino 2023 5'7 guard  High School: Our Saviour Lutheran (NY)  AAU Team: Riverside Hawks - prolific score for a 7th grader playing up. Excellent change of direction game. Unstoppable quick-release floater game. Sets up the pick n roll game with good timing and pace.

Francisco Matte 2022 5'11 guard  High School: Archbishop Stepinac (NY) - AAU Team: Riverside Hawks - athletic and sturdy built body for a guard. Aggressive in attacking the basket in iso mode.  His investment in his 3 point shot development will determine his upside.

Marco Lainez 2022 6'1 swing High School: Montgomery HS (NJ) AAU Team: United Prospects - a player with big guard potential at the next level. Too quick for the bigs to guard, too physical for the guards to check. His investment in his 3 point shot development will determine his upside.

Ryan Curry 2022 5'9 guard High School: Montgomery HS (NJ) AAU Team: United Prospects - a fun to watch scorer. Big arc, high release three ball game. When run off the 3 point line, he showed an excellent arsenal of head fake, stop-n-go and stop-n-pop play creation moves.

Caton Summers 2022 6'4 forward High School: Good Counsel HS (MD) AAU Team: Maryland Sharks - a high potential big body. Focus point for an inside-out offense. Excellent shoulder quickness on low post spin moves. Already using up-n-under moves. Terrific pick-n-roll screener and roll target.

Zaire Baines 2022 5'9 guard High School: Portledge School (NY) AAU Team: Seaford Heat - big time scorer from all levels. Per his coach, put up consecutive 50 point games during the winter season as an 8th grader playing on varsity.

Aazayah Ross 2022 5'11 guard High School: Portledge School (NY) AAU Team: Seaford Heat - strongly built guard, allowing him to physically dominate his match-ups. Sees the floor well, has a nose for the rebound and has quick hands on defense.

Chima Obayi 2021 6'0 guard High School: Archbishop Molloy (NY) AAU Team: Lightning Warren - plays hard and with a great attitude, coach calls him "special". Plays intense defense. Attacks the basketball fearlessly. Outside shot shows promise.

Nick Watts 2022 6'3 forward High School: Northport  HS (NY) AAU Team: Lightning Warren - tough, physical kid. Plays hard all of the time. Loves to rebound. A defender with excellent footwork. His investment in his skill development will determine his upside.

Ryan Weiss 2023 5'7 guard High School: Undecided/Hewitt (NY) AAU Team: Lightning Warren - a 7th grader playing up, but has already clearly put the work the work on his shot reps, with that being a key indicator of a bright future. Loves to compete.

By Brett Wilson  @brettwilson715

Recruit The Bronx was in the building at the 9th Annual Frankie Williams Classic at Stepinac High School. This year FWC featured three games, Boys Regional, Girls National and Boys National) all to benefit the Amercian Cancer Society. The gym was packed and it was standing room only as some of the top Tri State prospects electrified the crowd with their talents. Here are some players that we noticed

- Boys Regional Game
Majur Majak 2018 7'1  center The Patrick School - can block shots. Gets deep post position. Good back to the basket player. Good rebounder. Needs to increase his strength on the low block.

Ibrahim Wattera 2020 6'5 forward Mount St Michael Academy - strong body. Effective when he is going down hill with the ball. Decent on the boards. Needs to work on his defense.

Ed Minaya 2019 5'9 guard Stepinac HS - decent point guard. Can handle and shoot the ball. Good IQ. Needs to make plays with less dribbling

Shamel Jones 2021 6'3 guard Capitol Christian - knows how to create for himself. Decent ball handle and athletic abilities. Needs to become more crisp and sharper with his moves.

- Boys National Game
Dashawn Davis 2019 6'3 guard Our Savior Lutheran - athletic guard. Quick with the ball. Plays hard. Capable shooter. Needs to do more with his passes

Ismael Massoud 2019 6'9 wing Macduffie Prep (MA) - effective rebounder. Versatile wing player. Can hit the 3pt shot. Good with his passes and handle. Needs to work on his defensive efforts on the perimeter.

Franck Kepnang 2021 6'10  center Macduffie Prep (MA) - runs hard. Good hands. Can finish in the paint and at the rim. Needs to be a better defender in pick n roll action.

Joe Toussaint 2019 5'9 guard Cardinal Hayes - fast with the ball in transition. Has blow by speed. Good handle and good passes. Needs to be consistent with his 3pt shooting

Alan Griffin 2018 6'5 guard /wing Stepinac HS - Plays above the rim. Can score the ball. Has the skill set to be effective in all areas of the offense. Needs to go harder on defense

Savion Lewis 2018 6'1 guard Half Hallow Hills East - can tak you off the dribble and drive the ball to the basket. Can hit his open shots. Good motor. Can make things happen on offense. Needs to stay committed on defense

https://proskillsbasketball.com/kembawalker/

For more info, contact Nick Sires siresn@montclair.edu

Coach Mousey

By Derrick Irving   @CoachDIrving

On Sunday May 6th, RecruitTheBronx was on hand to watch the latest day of games at the Tri-State High School Spring League at ABBO Gym in Harlem. Tri-State is run by NYC basketball legend, Coach Mousey. Here are our top prospects:

Max Egner 2020 6’3 Forward Maspeth HS/Queens Pythons - athletic finisher on the drive, good rebounder on both ends, can block shots, decent mid range shot. Needs to develop his handle and get stronger.

Matthew Yournet 2020 5’9 Point Guard Construction/Queens Pythons - strong handle can penetrate and finish thru traffic, good court vision and playmaking abilities, pesky perimeter defender. Needs to become a consistent outside shooter, cut down on turnovers, and get stronger.

Thomas Felton 2020 6’0 Guard JFK HS/ABBO Elite - can attack the rim strong and finish thru contact, downhill speed can go coast to coast,explosive leaper, quick hands on defense, strong body. Needs to improve his outside shot and be more aggressive on both ends.

Herbert Hawkins 2020 5’9 Guard KIPP NYC/ABBO Elite - good outside shooter, shifty handle, sneaky athleticism,  pesky perimeter defender, hustled on both ends . Needs to be more aggressive with the ball in his hands and get stronger.

John Wilson 2020 5’10 Lincoln HS/Brooklyn Stompers - floor general, can get to the rim and finish thru traffic, strong handle, good perimeter defender moves feet quickly, strong body. Needs to improve his outside shooting, better shot selection, and trim down a little.

Cameron Thompson 2020 5’8 WestRidge Academy (NC)/Brooklyn Stompers - lights out shooter from deep, quick release high arc  on his jumper, good pull-up jumper, quick first step, quick shifty handle.

Klay Brown 2018 6’4 Small Forward Combine Academy (NC)/Brooklyn Stompers - attacks the rim strong can finish thru contact, above the rim finisher, explosive leaper, good perimeter handle, can go coast to coast, athletic rebounder, strong body. Needs to be a consistent outside shooter.

Sekou Sylla 2018 6’5 Small Forward South Shore HS/Brooklyn Stompers - attacks the rim strong can finish thru contact,  can finish with either hand soft touch, can score on all three levels, great energy on defense, good rebounder. Needs to get stronger.

https://allacademicbasketballcamp.leagueapps.com/camps

By Derrick Irving  @CoachDIrving

Saturday, April 7 was the 22nd Annual Big Apple Sports College Exposure Games run by Big Apple Sports Founder and Director Tippy McTernan, the event had over 200 Unsigned high school and college transfers showcasing their talent in front of college coaches. Here are our top prospects:

David Petit Homme 2018 6’6 Forward Boys and Girls HS - can get above the rim, active defender good timing on blocks, can get chase down blocks, athletic rebounder, runs the floor hard, long and lanky frame with long arms. Needs to be a consistent finisher on the drive, be more consistent with his mid-range shot, work on his hands and secure the ball on the catch, needs to get stronger to bang down low.

Wahaad Johnson 2018 5’11 Guard Bedford Academy - good pull-up jumper, creates good separation off the dribble, crafty finisher on the drive, moves well without the ball, good hesitation dribble, good court vision. Needs to show more effort on defense, streaky shooter.

Ali Sumareh 2018 6’4 Small Forward South Bronx Prep - athletic build, can finish thru contact , downhill speed comes at you in a hurry on the break, good rebounder, point forward decent playmaker. Can be loose with the ball at times, needs to be a more consistent outside shooter.

Raheem Ragsdale 2018 6’4 Small Forward WHEELS - long and athletic, can defend positions 1-3, solid on and off ball defender, stays with play on both ends. Needs to work on his jumper and  his handle to be more effective on offense, and gain muscle.

Yarayah Evans 2018 6’5 Small Forward George Westinghouse - explosive dunker, hustles on both ends, regularly gets put back dunks, good defender. Needs to work his jumpshot and his handle.

Justin Forest 2018 6’1 Shooting Guard Campus Magnet - aggressive on offense, can get hot in a second, good finisher on the drive, streaky shooter. Needs to distribute more, add muscle, show more effort on D.

Victor Ogbo 2018 6’5 Power Forward BK Law & Tech - tough interior defender uses long arms to contest and block shots, positions himself well on the offensive glass, can finish thru contact, relentless rebounder. Needs to get more trim and increase his vertical.

Keith King 2018 6’7 Forward Metro BDA - explosive leaper jumps out the gym, decent handle at his size, can go coast to coast, athletic rebounder, can block shots with his long arms and leaping ability, long and lanky frame, high potential. Needs to put on major weight super skinny, develop a mid-range shot, and improve his perimeter handle.

Korey Williams 2018 5’10 Point Guard LaSalle Academy - good floor general, quick and shifty handle, attacks the rim strong on the drive, can finish thru traffic, good pull-up mid-range jumper, sets up his teammates well, good court vision, pesky perimeter defender. Needs to get stronger and be a more consistent 3pt shooter.

Mohamed Fofana 2018 6’6 Small Forward WINGS HS - good outside shooter, nice form and release on his shot, good perimeter handle can handle under pressure, can finish thru contact on the drive, good passer for a SF, decent defender and rebounder. Needs to play above the rim more and go harder on the boards.

Aaron Burt 2018 6’6 Small Forward Sunrise Christian (KS) - explosive leaper, attacks the basket strong, can finish thru contact on the drive, quick first step, good mid range jumper, can handle the ball on the perimeter, athletic rebounder, strong body. Needs to be a consistent 3pt shooter and improve his court vision.

David Baffour 2018 6’8 Power Forward Brandies HS - good shot blocker, athletic rebounder, can shoot out to 12 ft, runs the floor well, long and lanky frame. Needs to get a lot stronger to bang down low and be a consistent inside finisher.

By Brett Wilson @brettwilson715

Friday 04/06

Recruit The Bronx was in the building to watch some of New York City's unsigned seniors showcase their talent in front of more than 30 college coaches at George Westinghouse HS. James Barrett,the tournament director, had approximately 40 seniors playing in two showcase games. The first game was Team Batman vs. Team Spiderman and the second game was Team Captain America vs Team Black Panther. Below are The Recruit The Bronx top performers.

Kevon Leary 2018 6'5 wing Metro BDA - athletic in transition. Quick leaper. Decent passer with some playmaking abilities. Runs the floor. Needs to be a better shooter and work more on his weak hand dribble.

Kenneth Hines 2018 6'6 forward Metro BDA - effective in the post with his rebounding and face up moves. Will surprise you with his ability to dribble drive. Knows how to create space when he puts his weight on you. Needs to get in better shape.

Victor Ogbo 2018 6'5 forward Brooklyn Law & Tech - good rebounder. Always in the right spot around the rim. Decent defender in the post. Has good hands. Average offensive skill set but finishes at the basket. Needs to increase his vertical.

Damarly Smith 2018 6'1 guard Our Savior Lutheran - strong with his play. Not afraid to be physical on offense or defense. Can hit open shots. Knows how to use his dribble to create a driving lane. Decent passer. Needs to stay consistent with his 3pt shot.

Dallas Watson 2018 6'3 guard St. Raymond HS - good player. Knows when and how to attack the basket. Can play at the rim. Solid athlete. Very capable of making plays and being a scoring threat. Needs to work on his outside shooting.

Tyler Bourne 2018 5'8 point guard Notre Dame - Fairfield (CT) - solid player. Good point guard. Has the ability to take over the game with his scoring. Effective 3pt shooter. Can play make off the dribble for himself and others. Good with his pass. Needs to get stronger and use his speed to defend harder.

Wahaad Johnson 2018 6'0 Bedford Academy - good 3pt shooter. Has decent range on his shot. Plays with good intensity. Can score the ball. Can beat you off the dribble. Needs to be consistent shooting when being closely guarded and his one the ball defense.

Omar Silverio 2018 6'5 guard St. Raymond HS - has a solid skill set. Can be used for his dribble, shooting and passing. Decent strength when driving at the basket. Streaky at times as a scorer. Needs to be an elevated 3pt shooter

Jamahl Humbert 2018 6'4 wing  McKee HS (Staten Island) - can play above the rim. Good athletic ability. Effective going down hill. Can be a good rebounder. Streaky shooter. Needs to work on his passing skills and defense.

Ali Sumareh 2018 6'4 wing South Bronx Prep - makes good use of his size when rebounding. Can get you some put back baskets in the paint. Can get the rebound and start the fast break. Can play up tempo and is good in the open court. Good offensive player. Needs to work on  his shot and dribble.



 

Why Athletic Recovery is so valuable for Youth Basketball Players:

By Jason Papalio 

Any good basketball-training program should allow for Recovery, time for growth to occur between workouts. Recovery means that you learn to relax deeply and bring your whole body into equilibrium, maximizing your body’s repair. Why does this matter?

With the stress you’re putting on your body through out: games, practices, and performance training, you’ll end up degrading your performance, if you haven’t already. The main benefit of a basketball athletic recovery program is ‘Injury Prevention’. You want to address warning signs as soon as they arise and before they become problems.

Based on your specific movements as a basketball player, your body responded to those repetitive movements in particular ways. Usually that: ache, twinge, soreness and pain are your body’s internal defense mechanism. The consequences of not listening to your body can lead to the: athletic trainers table, doctors, and even a long stay off the court with an injury.

With an appropriate basketball recovery program you’ll: experience less fatigue, enjoy great levels of preparedness, and ultimately greater performance. This can all lead to happier and healthier athletes in both the short and long term.

Perform the following 3 exercises: after practice, at night before bed, after a game or on a lighter recovery day

1. Legs Up the Wall:

Relives tired and cramped legs and provides lymph drainage in the feet and legs. An excellent stretch for the: hamstrings, front torso, and back of the neck. Allows the mind to find a calm and meditative state. Do for about 5 minutes with your eyes closed, in a rather quite location.

(Click here for Pictures)

2. Child’s Pose:

Great for basketball players to stretch the: hips, thighs, ankles, and shins while reducing fatigue. Awesome pose to do before bed for a few minutes or if having trouble sleeping. This resting posture centers, calms and sooths the brain, making it a therapeutic for relieving stress.

(Click here for Pictures)

3) Foam Roller Stretch:

You are actually fully conscious here aimed at being awake, yet completely relaxed.  Can calm the nervous system and promote equanimity in your entire body. Fatigued muscles get to relax, tense shoulders and jaws soften, and eyes quiet down to reflect a quieter state of mind. Rest here several minutes or more. 

(Click here for Pictures)

Jason Papalio

Athletic Recovery Specialist

www.jasonpapalio.com

203 564 6218

jpapalio@yahoo.com

by Brett Wilson  @brettwilson715 

The 2017 City Legends Invitational was played at the Gauchos Gym in the Bronx on  December 15-17, 2017 Top Performers were:

Trey Clarke 2018 6'4 wing Metro BDA - can shoot the 3 ball and drive to the bucket. Has multiple moves to get a basket. Plays within himself. Needs to go harder as a one on one defender and grabbing rebounds

Kenneth Hines 2018 6'5 center Metro BDA - good big man. Can rebound. Knows how to make space for himself in the post. Can dribble drive the ball when he allowed to face up. Need to play with constant intensity and get in better shape.

Savion Thousand 2018 6'2 guard Metro BDA - can make plays. Good with the dribble and pass. Knows how to find others. Moves well without the ball and gets rebounds from the guard position. Needs to look more for his 3pt shot.

Anthony Marshall 2020 5'8 point guard Metro BDA - good point guard. Can handle the ball and play up tempo and at different speeds. Can excel in pick n roll action. Has the ability to shoot the 3pt shot and be a scoring threat. Needs to lock in on defense all the time.

DeSean McNeil 2018 5'9 point guard Metro - reliable player. Willing defender. Solid as role and utility player. Decent skill set. Needs to finish more at the basket.

Lance Amir Paul 2018 post grad 5'10 point guard Convent Prep - tough and strong to the basket. Quick first step. Good with controlling his dribble. Getting better with his shooting and leadership. Will find open teammates with his pass. Needs to stretch the defense with his shooting.

Elijah Kiah El 2018 post grad 6'7 center Covenant Prep - good strong moves in the post. Strong body frame. Works hard on offense and defense. Needs to work on mid range shooting

James McNeil 2018 post grad 5'9 point guard The Robinson School - can run the point. Very efficient player. Makes good use of both hands. Can be creative with his pass. Average defender. Needs to be a better shooter.

Aidan Igiehon 2018 6'9 center Lawrence Woodmere - great size and body structure. Runs end to end. Shows good agility. Can rebound. Nice jump hook shot. Needs to work on catching the ball. Has the tendency to bobble the ball in traffic

Bryce Wills 2019 6'6 wing Iona Prep - strong with his dribble and when he attacks the rim. More than capable of playing the point wing some heavy point guard minutes. Good court vision. Can make his teammates better. Fights for rebounds. Can be a triple treat player. Needs to become a high level scorer all the time

Posh Alexander 2020 5'7 point guard Our Savior Lutheran National - tough young player. Plays hard. Moves the ball up the court with purpose. Good vertical for his height. Strong with his dribble. Good passer. Needs to be better at shooting

Jared Rhoden 2018 6'6 wing Our Savior Lutheran National Team - can shoot and get to the rim. Good ability to score. Versatile player who can hit the 3pt shot and mid range shot and floaters inside the lane and paint areas. Good instincts with his dribble. Not afraid to be aggressive. Needs to be a go getter on defense.

Simisola Shitto 2018 6'9 forward Vermont Academy - good player. Rebounds with authority. Moves well in and out of the post. Plays at and above the rim. Can finish with power. Can handle the ball some and make passes. Needs to work on shooting.

Josh Rodriguez 2012 5'6 point guard Green Tech - decent skills for a freshman. Can handle the ball with either hand. Plays under control when he's not under intense pressure. Average with his pass and shot. Needs to get better at defending and shooting

John Egbuta 2018 6'4 wing Wadleigh HS- strong body. Athletic and can take it strong to the rim. Average ball handles. Tends to get stuck on the perimeter without the ball. Can block shots. Needs to get better off the dribble and shooting

Nicholas Johnson 2019 6'3 wing All Hallows HS - lefty. Plays hard. Undersized when he goes into the paint but can scrap it up inside. Well go and get some rebounds. Good energy. Can hit the mid range shot. Needs to work 3pt shooting.

Jahmir Appleton 2018 6'5 forward Eagle Academy BX - can run the floor. Can hit the mid range shot. Effective rebounder. At times will block a shot or two. Needs to work on more athletic post up moves and driving the ball to the basket.

Amadou Traore 2019 6'7 forward Brooklyn Collegiate - good size. Runs hard. Can rebound. Decent moves when he catches the ball in the post. Will give a honest effort to defend his man in the post. Needs to be more of a scorer.

Glen Anderson 2019 5'6 point guard Brooklyn Collegiate - fast fast and fast. Can get the ball up the court in a hurry. Can ball dribbling skills. Knows how to pressure the ball on defense. Effective passer. Needs to stay under control with his dribble when he is racing up the court and shooting over defenders.

Jordan Wilmore 2018 Post Grad 7'3 center Mt Zion Prep MD - nice jump hook with right and left hand. Can rebound. Runs well for his height. Needs to block more shots and get more vertical on his jump

Boubacar Kamissoko 2018 Post Grad 6'3 wing Our Savior Lutheran PG - Streaky shooter. Can handle the rock. Can be a play maker when he constantly aggressive. Decent athletic ability. Decent passer. Needs to get stronger

Mohammed Fofana 2018 6'5 forward Wings Academy - shows versatility. Streaky shooter but will step out and shoot the 3 ball. Grabs rebounds and pushes the break. Plays up tempo. Aggressive to the basket. Needs to work on being stronger with his dribble

Davante Smith 2019 5'5 point guard Wings Academy - plays fast. Good speed. Good with his dribble. Makes good decisions. Knows how to get his teammates going. Will hit his share of open 3pt shots. Needs to be a more consistent defender

Gary Grant 2020 6'6 forward St Raymond HS - good athlete. Runs the floor and can get above the rim. Can play inside and the mid range. Good strength for his frame. Will battle for rebounds. Needs to develop his perimeter skills

Other standouts at the 2017 City Legends Invitational , previously reviewed by RecruitTheBronx.com:
- Josh Alexander Iona Prep
- ‎Souleymane Koureissi Iona Prep
- ‎ Dallas Watson St Raymond
- ‎ Demarco Watson St Raymond
- ‎ Omar Silverio St Raymond
- ‎ Darius Lee St Raymond
- ‎ Payton Hudson Our Savior Lutheran Regional
- ‎ Donald Hartley All Hallows HS 

By Derrick Irving  @BC_Recruits

Recruit the Bronx was on hand to watch Week 5 of the MTG Back2School Invitational at Eagle Academy II in Brooklyn, NY. MTG (More Than A Game) is run by Rob Moses, Assistant Coach at Cardozo HS. Here are our top prospects:

Brendan McGuire 2018 6’7 Small Forward  Chaminade HS - good coast to coast finisher who finishes well with both hands, good court vision, can be a point-forward, attacks the basket strong thru contact, good shooting form. Needs to be a more consistent shooter and be more aggressive on defense.

Liam Brennan 2019 6’8 Center  Chaminade HS - good inside finisher, can finish with both hands, decent rebounder. Needs to work on his stamina and vertical.

Mike Ferrara 2018 6’0 Guard  Chaminade HS - good 3pt shooter, shows a good understanding of the game, disciplined defender plays good on ball defense. Needs to be more of a playmaker.

Tashon Taylor 2018 6’4 Forward Edison HS - high energy player, non stop motor on both ends of the floor, tough interior defender, aggressive rebounder. Athletic game but needs to be more controlled, wild at times.

Taijay Good 2020 5’9 Point Guard John Bowne HS  - knockdown 3pt shooter, confident shifty guard who can score in bunches, quick first step, good passing skills. Needs to be more aggressive on defense.

Teequan Holley 2019 6’6 Power Forward John Bowne HS  - good interior defender, tries to contest and block every shot, athletic,very raw offensively. Needs to be a more consistent finisher inside.

Tyrese Apple 2019 6’2 Shooting Guard  John Bowne HS  - can score inside-out, crafty scorer finishes well on the drive, quick hands on defense. Needs to look for his shot more.

Josh Lugo 2019 6’5 Forward Frederick Douglass Academy - invites contact on the drive, adept at drawing fouls and converts his free throws, runs the floor well, hustles for loose balls. Needs to work on his handle and outside shot to be a SF at the next level.

Jayden Clarke 2020 6’2 Point Guard  Frederick Douglass Academy  - good passing skills and court vision, good handle needs to get tighter, hustles for loose balls, has a good feel for the game. Needs to look for his shot more and be more aggressive on the court. Long and lanky frame could grow taller by senior year

Kofi Cockburn 2019 6’11 Center  Christ The King  HS  - one of the strongest big men in the country, big body and uses it to his advantage, finishes thru contact with ease, intimidating rim protector, runs the floor like a wing very agile, good passer for a big. Needs to develop his post game more

Ryan Myers 2020 5’11 Point Guard Christ The King HS  - very good 3pt shooter, good shot of the dribble, quick first step, attacks the basket strong, good on ball defense, controls the offense, sneaky athleticism, lefty. Needs to get stronger

Jaylen Davis 2019 6’3 Shooting Guard  Christ The King HS - cerebral scorer makes it look easy, very crafty can score inside-out. Needs to be more aggressive on defense, streaky shooter.

Nathan Curry 2019 6’3 Forward Christ The King HS  - good discipline on defense goes all out on that end, good form on his shot, makes smart cuts moves well without the ball. Needs to increase his range and work on his handle to be more of a wing at the next level.

Felo Niclas 2018 6’0 Combo Guard Springfield Gardens HS  - a 3pt sniper, tight handle creates good separation, very good perimeter defender quick hands, athletic finisher. Needs to distribute more to be a true PG.

Nasir Modeste 2018 6’2 Guard Eagle Academy II - explosive leaper attacks the basket strong, will sky for rebounds with the trees, decent handle. Needs to increase his range.