2010 NCAA Tournament
Round One (March 18):
(11) Old Dominion Monarchs VS. (6) Notre Dame Fighting Irish
The first round started off great when the number 11 Old Dominion Monarchs upset the number 6 Notre Dame Fighting Irish 51-50. Frank Hassell scored 15 points had 9 rebounds and 2 assists for Old Dominion, while Ben Hansbrough scored 17 points had 6 rebounds and 3 assists for the Irish but this was not enough to give them a victory.
(7) Brigham Young Cougars VS. (10) Florida Gators
The number 7 Brigham Young Cougars defeated the number 10 Florida Gators in a tight game that went into double over time but in the end Brigham Young came out on top 99-92. The Cougars had an outstanding performance by Jimmer Fredette who scored 37 points had 2 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, and a block he played great on both ends of the court and was much of the reason for the victory over the Gators.
(2) Villanova Wildcats VS. (15) Robert Morris Colonials
Another great game was the number 2 Villanova Wildcats against the number 15 Robert Morris Colonials this was a very exciting game as the Wildcats got a big scare by the Colonials. This game went into overtime as Robert Morris were playing a great game and the Wildcats played very poor but the Wildcats prevailed in the end of the first overtime 73-70. The Colonials deserve much credit as they played a great game against the Wildcats but in the end it just was not enough to make it to the second round.
(13) Murray State Racers VS. (4) Vanderbilt Commodores
Another great game came when the number 13 Murray State Racers defeated the number 4 Vanderbilt Commodores 66-65. The game ended on a buzzer beater by Danero Thomas, he was third option in the play set up by head coach Billy Kennedy, they wanted to get the ball to Isacc Miles who is the star of this team. He had scored 17 points but Thomas became the hero when he hit the 15-footer at the buzzer to win the game.
(10) Saint Mary's Gaels VS. (7) Richmond Spiders
The number 10 Saint Mary's Gaels upset the number 7 Richmond Spiders 80-71. The star for Saint Mary's was Omar Samhan; Omar had 29 points and 12 rebounds he was very successful against the Spiders even though he fell into foul trouble.
(11) Washington Huskies VS. (6) Marquette Golden Eagles
Quincy Pondexter and Isaiah Thomas lead the number 11 Washington Huskies to victory over Lazar Hayward and Darius Johnson-Odom with the number 6 Marquette Golden Eagles. This was a great game with a lot of athletic and talented players but four stand out Tomas scored 19 points he had 3 rebounds, 8 assists, and a steal for the Huskies his teammate Quincy Pondexter also had a great game scoring 18 points he had 11 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks in this upset over the Golden Eagles. Although Marquette lost in the first round they have talented players who had great games. Hayward scored 20 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals, and a block his teammate Darius Johnson-Odom also performed well scoring 19 points,3 rebounds, and 5 assists but even though these two players had great games it was not enough to beat Washington.
(3) Georgetown Hoyas VS. (14) Ohio Bobcats
This game was exciting but at the same time it was very disappointing, the number 3 Hoyas were defeated by the number 14 Bobcats. This outcome should not be so surprising as the Bobcats have many athletic and talented players including Armon Bassett and D.J. Cooper who are a great duo.They scored a combined 55 points in this 97-83 victory for the Bobcats. Together they also had 6 rebounds, 11 assists, and 3 steals as the Hoyas were not able to deal with these two on either side of the court. This was one of the bigger upsets in the tournament even though from this game you can see the Bobcats had a very talented team.
(8) Texas Longhorns VS. (9) Wake Forest Demon Deacons
These two teams were closely ranked as they should have been because they played an extremely close game that went to overtime where the number 9 Demon Deacons beat the number 8 Texas Longhorns. Ishmael Smith won the game for Wake Forest when he shot a 17-footer with 1.3 seconds left in overtime which lead to the defeat of the Texas Longhorns. Smith scored 19 points, he had 12 rebounds, and seven assists. Jordan Hamilton for the Longhorns could not lead his team to victory but he had a great game scoring 19 points, getting 6 rebounds, an assist, and a steal.
(8) UNLV Rebels VS. (9) Northern Iowa Panthers
This like the Texas vs. Wake Forest game was closely ranked and it turned out a very close game as the number 9 Panthers beat the number 8 Rebels. The Panthers won the game 69-66. With 4.9 seconds left on the clock the game was tied and the ball was in the hands of the Panthers star player Ali Farokhmanesh, he found himself wide open from behind the arch and he took the shot and it fell giving the Panthers a three point lead which they were able to keep for the next couple of seconds. Ali had a great game scoring 17 points; he also had 2 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals.
The first day of the 2010 NCAA tournament was filled with crazy games from big upsets to buzzer beaters and decisive shots with little time left. The other games that took place on March 18 were not insignificant but they had less of an effect as these 9 games did but they were still great games. Number 3 Baylor knocked off the number 14 Sam Houston State 68-59. The number 2 Kansas State defeated the number 15 North Texas 82-62. The number 5 Butler beat the number 12 UTEP 77-59. The number 1 Kentucky dominated the number 16 East Tennessee State 100-71. The number 1 Kansas rolled on past the number 16 Lehigh 90-74. The number 6 Tennessee just barely beat the number 11 San Diego State 62-59. Finally the number 3 New Mexico beat the number 14 Montana in a close game 62-57.
Round one (March 19):
(5) Temple Owls VS. (12) Cornell Big Red
In this match up the number 12 Cornell were able to defeat the number 5 Temple by a margin of 13; the score was 78-65. From this result people could say this is an upset or that these teams’ rankings are not so good, Cornell’s performance in this tournament shows that they should have been ranked a little bit higher then they were. This was a big win for Cornell as it brought them to the second round and it was the first win in the tournament by an Ivy League school since 1998. Louis Dale was the hero for the Big Red scoring 21 points, and getting a rebound, 7 assists, and a steal.
(7) Clemson Tigers VS. (10) Missouri Tigers
This was another great game of the first round as the number 10 Missouri upset the number 7 Clemson 86-78. Both Kim English and teammate Keith Ramsey scored 20 points. But the reason why Missouri won was mainly due to the great defense, they are quick and smart on defense and they were able to force 20 turnovers. The player who shined most for Clemson was Demontez Stitt who scored 21 points; he had 3 rebounds, and 2 assists, but it was not enough as the Clemson Tigers were defeated in the first round by the Missouri Tigers.
(5) Michigan State Spartans VS. (12) New Mexico State Aggies
This was a great game that had a tight ending but the upset did not happen. In the end the number 5 Spartans were able to fight off the number 12 Aggies by a score of 70-67. Kalin Lucas played a great game he showed how important he is to this team by scoring 25 points, getting 2 rebounds, 4 assists, and a steal as he lead the Spartans into the second round in this very close game.
(7) Oklahoma State Cowboys VS. (10) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
The number 10 Yellow Jackets were able to stun the number 7 Cowboys in a 64-59 victory. Derrick Favors had a good night for the Yellow Jackets he scored 12 points, had 9 rebounds, and a block. Keiton Page had a good game for the Cowboys he scored 13 points, 4 assists, and a block in the loss to the Yellow Jackets.
These were the more significant games on March 19.The less significant are listed. The other games were number 2 West Virginia beat number 15 Morgan State 77-50. Number 8 Gonzaga beat number 9 Florida State 67-60. Number 6 Xavier beat number 11 Minnesota 65-54. Number 3 Pittsburgh beat number 14 Oakland 89-66. Number 4 Wisconsin beat number 13 Wofford 53-49. Number 5 Texas A&M beat number 12 Utah State 69-53. Number 1 Duke beat number 16 AR-Pine Bluff 73-44. Number 1 Syracuse beat number 16 Vermont 79- 56. Number 8 California beat number 9 Louisville 77-62. Number 2 Ohio State beat number 15 UC Santa Barbara 68-51. Number 4 Maryland beat number 13 Houston 89-77. And Number 4 Purdue survived the first round without Hummel as they beat the Saints 72-64.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Monday, April 5, 2010
Interview with Royce Woolridge- Class of 2010. Commited to Kansas
1. So Royce you are committed to play next year at Kansas. What factors went into your decision?
Well I have family there that always tells me how great it is there plus I love the atmosphere at KU plus that's where basketball started and it has great history.
2. With Sherron Collins, Cole Aldrich, and maybe Xavier Henry leaving to the NBA, how do you except to play next year as a team?
I feel as if the team will still be good. Maybe not a number one seed but definitely a team that will compete and be a force to be reckoned with.
3. What is your goals individually next year?
My goals are to go out there and play as hard as I can in order to help the team as much as I can.
4. Who do you think is the best player in the class of 2010 and who do you think will have the most impact next year in college?
Harrison Barnes is really good and he will have a big impact next year at UNC.
5. What do you feel you have to improve before you head to Kansas?
I need to improve on my defense and getting stronger.
6. What's your best aspect in your game?
I think my versatility is the best aspect of my game.
7. If somehow Coach Self wasn't the coach anymore for Kansas would you stick with your commitment to Kansas or what other colleges would be the front runners?
Even if Coach Self wasn't the coach I would still stick with my decision to go to Kansas.
8. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why? Is the NBA a path you would like to take or would you rather pursue a different career?
I don't know who I would compare myself to but I would love to eventually play in the NBA but if not I'm getting my degree in buisness where I'll start my own buisness.
9. Finally, what do you expect to accomplish as a team and individually next year at Kansas?
Next year I want the the team to make another run for the national championship and individually I want to help as much as I can to make that happen.
Well I have family there that always tells me how great it is there plus I love the atmosphere at KU plus that's where basketball started and it has great history.
2. With Sherron Collins, Cole Aldrich, and maybe Xavier Henry leaving to the NBA, how do you except to play next year as a team?
I feel as if the team will still be good. Maybe not a number one seed but definitely a team that will compete and be a force to be reckoned with.
3. What is your goals individually next year?
My goals are to go out there and play as hard as I can in order to help the team as much as I can.
4. Who do you think is the best player in the class of 2010 and who do you think will have the most impact next year in college?
Harrison Barnes is really good and he will have a big impact next year at UNC.
5. What do you feel you have to improve before you head to Kansas?
I need to improve on my defense and getting stronger.
6. What's your best aspect in your game?
I think my versatility is the best aspect of my game.
7. If somehow Coach Self wasn't the coach anymore for Kansas would you stick with your commitment to Kansas or what other colleges would be the front runners?
Even if Coach Self wasn't the coach I would still stick with my decision to go to Kansas.
8. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why? Is the NBA a path you would like to take or would you rather pursue a different career?
I don't know who I would compare myself to but I would love to eventually play in the NBA but if not I'm getting my degree in buisness where I'll start my own buisness.
9. Finally, what do you expect to accomplish as a team and individually next year at Kansas?
Next year I want the the team to make another run for the national championship and individually I want to help as much as I can to make that happen.
Sheldon McClellan- Texas Recruit
1. So you verbally committed to play at Texas, what factors went into that decision?
I just wanted to go to a college that has good academics and that has a great basketball organization and Texas has that. I also wanted to stay in Texas.
2. You accepted the invite to go to training camp for the Under 18 USA National Team, how big of an honor was that and what do you expect to do with them this summer?
It's a great honor to be chosen for the USA team and play with the top players. I expect to get better and have fun and just win games.
3. What basketball camps and events do you have planned for this summer?
I'm going to play for Houston Select for AAU and travel the whole summer. I don't know what camps I'm going to attend yet but I have a lot to go to.
4. Who do you think is the best player in the class of 2011?
I don't really know who the best player in our class because there are so many great players but no matter who I'm playing against I'm going to go at them no matter what they are ranked or how much people talk about them.
5. What do you feel you have to improve this summer to be cemented to the upper echelon of your class?
I just have to get stronger. I'm already a complete player.
6. What players in your class are you trying to bring with you to Texas?
I'm really not trying to get anybody to Texas because I think we are going to be good with the players we already have that have. It is their choice of where they want to go.
7. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why? Is the NBA a path you would like to take or would you rather pursue a different career?
I compare myself to Penny Hardaway because he could do everything. Yes I am trying to make it to the nba.
8. Who is the best player you have ever played against? Why was this player so hard to guard or score against?
The best player I have ever played against was Kevin Durant because he can shoot dribble and post up. He has a long wingspan so it was hard for me to score.
9. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
I shoot and handle the ball very well and I am very quick. You never know what I am going to do offensively
10. If somehow Rick Barnes wasn't the coach anymore for Texas would you stick with your commitment to Texas or what other colleges would be the front runners?
I would most likely look into other colleges but hold my committment.
11. Finally, what do you hope to accomplish this year? What are your goals that you want to accomplish before you head to Texas?
I just want to win a state ring before I leave high school and this is my last year to do it.I also want to set records for different things next year which I will do and already have done.
Thank you for your time Sheldon and good luck with your future.
I just wanted to go to a college that has good academics and that has a great basketball organization and Texas has that. I also wanted to stay in Texas.
2. You accepted the invite to go to training camp for the Under 18 USA National Team, how big of an honor was that and what do you expect to do with them this summer?
It's a great honor to be chosen for the USA team and play with the top players. I expect to get better and have fun and just win games.
3. What basketball camps and events do you have planned for this summer?
I'm going to play for Houston Select for AAU and travel the whole summer. I don't know what camps I'm going to attend yet but I have a lot to go to.
4. Who do you think is the best player in the class of 2011?
I don't really know who the best player in our class because there are so many great players but no matter who I'm playing against I'm going to go at them no matter what they are ranked or how much people talk about them.
5. What do you feel you have to improve this summer to be cemented to the upper echelon of your class?
I just have to get stronger. I'm already a complete player.
6. What players in your class are you trying to bring with you to Texas?
I'm really not trying to get anybody to Texas because I think we are going to be good with the players we already have that have. It is their choice of where they want to go.
7. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why? Is the NBA a path you would like to take or would you rather pursue a different career?
I compare myself to Penny Hardaway because he could do everything. Yes I am trying to make it to the nba.
8. Who is the best player you have ever played against? Why was this player so hard to guard or score against?
The best player I have ever played against was Kevin Durant because he can shoot dribble and post up. He has a long wingspan so it was hard for me to score.
9. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
I shoot and handle the ball very well and I am very quick. You never know what I am going to do offensively
10. If somehow Rick Barnes wasn't the coach anymore for Texas would you stick with your commitment to Texas or what other colleges would be the front runners?
I would most likely look into other colleges but hold my committment.
11. Finally, what do you hope to accomplish this year? What are your goals that you want to accomplish before you head to Texas?
I just want to win a state ring before I leave high school and this is my last year to do it.I also want to set records for different things next year which I will do and already have done.
Thank you for your time Sheldon and good luck with your future.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Moses Morgan Interview- Ready to bring DePaul to the top.
1. So Moses, you are committed to play next year at DePaul. What factors went into that decision?
My decison to go to DePaul was because I wanted to go to a school that will let me excel as a player and take my game to another level and having so many opportunities after my years of college.
2. After DePaul finished 8-23 last year, did their losing affect your decision? Are you hoping to bring DePaul to the top?
It didn't effect my decision at all. It actually made my decision stronger because it gives me and my teammates the ability to put DePaul back on the map and making it a top school.
3. Playing at the LeBron James Skills Academy this past summer must have been a great experience. How did you play against the top talent?
I played real well against the guys. I showed people that I can compete with the best. I learned a lot of stuff that I can add to my game and just competing at such a high level was really fun as well.
4. Who do you think had the best showing at the LeBron James Skills Academy? In other words, who was MVP?
I can't say there was really an MVP because everybody was good and everybody was competing to win and show the college coaches what we can do.
5. Playing in the Big East DePaul faces tough teams night in and night out, do you believe DePaul belongs in that class or would you rather have them in a less difficult division?
DePaul is good right where they are because now they have some talent coming in and the guys that are there makes the team even better. We can compete in that conference, we had a lot of games where we were up 10 points and let the game slip away and next year we are going to be able to close those games.
6. People say that DePaul is a mid major in a high major conference. Would you like to see the NCAA Tournament expand so more " mid major" teams like DePaul get in?
To me DePaul is a High Major School that can compete with the best teams and we just need to close games out. I don't think they should expand with more mid major teams.
7. There is some talk that NBA Hall of Famer, Isiah Thomas, is interested in taking over the DePaul head coaching position. Would that hiring change your decision? If so what colleges would be the favorites?
Whoever they bring in , I'm still going to go and spend my next years at DePaul.
8. Your father played at Indiana University under Bobby Knight. You didn't want to follow his path, why not?
Indiana was a great school and the coaching staff was great and students but I just felt more comfortable with going to DePaul and I wanted to start my own legacy.
9. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why? Is the NBA a path you would like to take or would you rather pursue a different career?
I watch Carmelo Anthony and I think I have a similar game to him and I want to pursue a career in the NBA.
10. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
My strongest characteristic is that I play hard and play like every game is my last and just wanting to win.
11.What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually next year and possibly the next four years with DePaul?
I want to go in there and be a big part of the team as a freshman and help win games. So that's my goal,to help win games and putting DePaul back to where it needs to be.
My decison to go to DePaul was because I wanted to go to a school that will let me excel as a player and take my game to another level and having so many opportunities after my years of college.
2. After DePaul finished 8-23 last year, did their losing affect your decision? Are you hoping to bring DePaul to the top?
It didn't effect my decision at all. It actually made my decision stronger because it gives me and my teammates the ability to put DePaul back on the map and making it a top school.
3. Playing at the LeBron James Skills Academy this past summer must have been a great experience. How did you play against the top talent?
I played real well against the guys. I showed people that I can compete with the best. I learned a lot of stuff that I can add to my game and just competing at such a high level was really fun as well.
4. Who do you think had the best showing at the LeBron James Skills Academy? In other words, who was MVP?
I can't say there was really an MVP because everybody was good and everybody was competing to win and show the college coaches what we can do.
5. Playing in the Big East DePaul faces tough teams night in and night out, do you believe DePaul belongs in that class or would you rather have them in a less difficult division?
DePaul is good right where they are because now they have some talent coming in and the guys that are there makes the team even better. We can compete in that conference, we had a lot of games where we were up 10 points and let the game slip away and next year we are going to be able to close those games.
6. People say that DePaul is a mid major in a high major conference. Would you like to see the NCAA Tournament expand so more " mid major" teams like DePaul get in?
To me DePaul is a High Major School that can compete with the best teams and we just need to close games out. I don't think they should expand with more mid major teams.
7. There is some talk that NBA Hall of Famer, Isiah Thomas, is interested in taking over the DePaul head coaching position. Would that hiring change your decision? If so what colleges would be the favorites?
Whoever they bring in , I'm still going to go and spend my next years at DePaul.
8. Your father played at Indiana University under Bobby Knight. You didn't want to follow his path, why not?
Indiana was a great school and the coaching staff was great and students but I just felt more comfortable with going to DePaul and I wanted to start my own legacy.
9. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why? Is the NBA a path you would like to take or would you rather pursue a different career?
I watch Carmelo Anthony and I think I have a similar game to him and I want to pursue a career in the NBA.
10. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
My strongest characteristic is that I play hard and play like every game is my last and just wanting to win.
11.What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually next year and possibly the next four years with DePaul?
I want to go in there and be a big part of the team as a freshman and help win games. So that's my goal,to help win games and putting DePaul back to where it needs to be.
Interview with Chris Crawford- Part of Memphis' Huge Incoming Recruits
1. Who is the best player you have ever played against? Why was this player so hard to guard or score against?
Patrick Coleman . He was short but he played box and 1 on me all the time. He was very hard to defend because he was so little and could shoot really good.
2. Why did you choose Memphis over the other schools that heavily recruited you last year?
Because like I said I love the fans i want to win a national championship and I love my family and I'm a mamas boy.
3. What is the best advice you have ever received?
''NEVER QUIT make this money"- Coach Burton.
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
10th grade from Murry state University.
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
Deron Williams, because he started as a shooting guard at Illinois but turned into a point guard in the NBA so that's who I compare my game to in the NBA.
6. How do you workout during the school year?
After school practice I'd go to the Finch at night and shoot 500 shots a night.
7. Who is your role model?
My role model is my mother, I look up to her because she is a strong black woman.
8. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I need to improve my sliding on defense and quickness. Also to be more explosive.
9. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
My 10th grade year.
10. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
Being able to shoot from anywhere and my passing ability.
11. Who was your favorite NBA player and team?
Utah Jazz,and Deron Williams.
12. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team did you play on?
AAU,and Memphis Magic.
13. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
Broadcast and Journalism, I think I can be like Jay Bilas.
14. What's your proudest basketball moment?
When I hit a game winning shot in the championship game in Vegas.
15. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
I would say keep working hard because you love the game and never quit. Never say I can't and go play for cowboy that's all the exposure.
16. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually next year with Memphis?
As a team I want all of us to be together as one big family. Win a national championship and all of us to be successful. Individually I would like to become stronger and quicker to play in the NBA.
Patrick Coleman . He was short but he played box and 1 on me all the time. He was very hard to defend because he was so little and could shoot really good.
2. Why did you choose Memphis over the other schools that heavily recruited you last year?
Because like I said I love the fans i want to win a national championship and I love my family and I'm a mamas boy.
3. What is the best advice you have ever received?
''NEVER QUIT make this money"- Coach Burton.
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
10th grade from Murry state University.
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
Deron Williams, because he started as a shooting guard at Illinois but turned into a point guard in the NBA so that's who I compare my game to in the NBA.
6. How do you workout during the school year?
After school practice I'd go to the Finch at night and shoot 500 shots a night.
7. Who is your role model?
My role model is my mother, I look up to her because she is a strong black woman.
8. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I need to improve my sliding on defense and quickness. Also to be more explosive.
9. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
My 10th grade year.
10. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
Being able to shoot from anywhere and my passing ability.
11. Who was your favorite NBA player and team?
Utah Jazz,and Deron Williams.
12. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team did you play on?
AAU,and Memphis Magic.
13. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
Broadcast and Journalism, I think I can be like Jay Bilas.
14. What's your proudest basketball moment?
When I hit a game winning shot in the championship game in Vegas.
15. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
I would say keep working hard because you love the game and never quit. Never say I can't and go play for cowboy that's all the exposure.
16. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually next year with Memphis?
As a team I want all of us to be together as one big family. Win a national championship and all of us to be successful. Individually I would like to become stronger and quicker to play in the NBA.
McDonald's All American Game Recap
As usual the McDonald’s All-American Game had its share of dunks and explosive athletic plays. The West All-Americans ended up prevailing behind a three pointer by Brandon Knight, but it was Jared Sullinger and Harrison Barnes that came away as the game MVP’s.
Kyrie Irving: it is pretty safe to say that the Duke Blue Devils won’t have any issues at the point guard position next season. The New Jersey standout was on top of his game all week in Columbus and that carried over to the game. He was extremely efficient, and did everything a coach could want out of a point guard. He is slick with the ball in his hands, a good passer, and has a flair for the spectacular while also taking care of the ordinary. As far as guards go, Irving was as good as it gets.
Jared Sullinger: The big fella is just so posed down low with the ball and extremely fundamental. While not an explosive athlete like some of his peers, Sullinger showed off his complete game. He started off his scoring by hitting a three, then went to work down low. Also his foul shooting was excellent. As always Sullinger was good on the glass. He looked like a day one impact guy with his performance.
C.J. Leslie: Overall it was an interesting week for Leslie, but on Wednesday night he showed a lot of what makes him so intriguing. Leslie had a few impressive shot blocks, he attacked the glass relentlessly, and also used his length and athleticism to score down low. When aggressive he is tough to match up with, and on Wednesday that was the case.
Tobias Harris: Unfortunately Harris broke his toe, and wasn’t able to finish out the game, but when on the floor he was extremely impressive. The face up forward scored inside and out, and also got on the glass rebounding. Beyond that he showed his tremendous feel for the game with excellent passing. His skill set is off the charts.
Reggie Bullock: Bullock isn’t someone who thrives in an all-star game setting, but he got hot on Wednesday. After hitting a shot from deep, he crashed the boards, and also threw several nice outlet passes to start the break. There is no doubt he can shoot, and to his credit he lets the game come to him, but when he does everything is when he stands out, and he did more than just shoot with the bright lights on.
Josh Selby: He wasn’t as dominant during the game as he was during the practices and scrimmage, but still he was fairly good on Wednesday. Selby scored on his usual array of shots, and also used his athleticism to get to the rim. Beyond that Selby does defend very well, and at the next level he has the potential to be a lockdown type of guy. While he played out of control at times, he did a good job of not gunning, and being a lead guard.
Perry Jones: The game was a microcosm of Jones’ career. He did one or two things to wow you, but then disappears for long stretches. Jones hit a face up jumper, had some open dunks, and had a nice shot block, though it was incorrectly called goal tending, but other than that he was largely invisible. The tools are there, but soon he the production has to match the potential.
Kendall Marshall: All-star games aren’t where Marshall is going to show his stuff because he is so unselfish. Marshall is never going to be a big scorer, but he had several nice passes that either led directly to buckets, or set up a bucket off of another pass. He is the consummate floor general who did his best to simply fit in.
Deshaun Thomas: The final box score looked good for Thomas, 11 points and seven rebounds, but he wasn’t efficient at all. He struggled mightily from the field, and also didn’t get it going down low against bigger defensive players. Thomas looked like a power forward with some three point range. Obviously it wasn’t his best day, but in the end he did get buckets.
Jelan Kendrick: Kendrick was the last player to get in for the East team, and actually played the fewest minutes, so it was tough to get a good feel for his game. He did have one nice baseline drive for a dunk, but other than that he was largely not heard from. Kendrick has the natural tools, but he just didn’t get an opportunity to do much on Wednesday.
Joe Jackson: After getting some criticism for not passing earlier in the week, Jackson was unselfish during the big game. He had a few nice passes that led to buckets, and also one hoop to crack the scorebook. Not a huge game, and not much to go on, but definitely a step in the right direction for the floor general.
Jayvaughn Pinkston: It was a tough end to a tough week. Pinkston never got into rhythm during the game, and finished 2-8 from the floor and really struggled at times. He is an undersized four who is at his best in the half court, and this was a full court game. Pinkston definitely will fill a role, but this wasn’t his finest hour.
West All-Americans
Harrison Barnes: The steady senior did it all for the West squad. He finished with 18 points, and scored in a variety of ways. As usual in an all-star game he got a few cheap points on dunks, but also he hit a three, scored off the dribble, and also was a facilitator for his teammates. Add in that Barnes proved he could guard multiple positions, and he came home with the MVP trophy for a reason.
Terrence Jones: Quietly Jones managed to have an excellent game. He didn’t rebound like maybe you would have liked out of a power forward, but he is active down low, can block shots, and just knows how to score. With his body and athleticism, there just aren’t many matchups for Jones, and he showed what he is capable of with his performance.
Fabrico de Melo: The Brazilian didn’t put up a ton of points, but he did everything else for his team. He blocked shots, made excellent passes, ran the floor, played defense, and overall was a major factor on the game. He will need to get stronger in college, but still he played excellent and did all the little things down low to help the West.
Tristan Thompson: It was a solid and efficient game for the Texas bound big man. Thompson looked to have more bounce off the floor than earlier this season, and finished around the rim well. Also with his length he altered shots, and was simply a big problem inside the paint. When he plays hard and active like this, he can make things very difficult on defenders.
Jereme Richmond: In a game where efficiency can often times be thrown away for the sake of a highlight, Richmond showed how important it is. He only took seven shots, finished with 11 points, and was just solid and let the game come to him. As usual he scored mostly for the mid-range, and didn’t have the flash and dash to him, but at the end of the day Richmond just gets buckets and puts up numbers.
Patric Young: The only way to describe him is “animal”. Young pulled in nine rebounds, and as usual did damage around and above the rim. He just shows a knack for knowing how to get rebounds, and that is something that can’t be taught. Add in his athleticism, and Young put on a good performance. Now he must improve his skill level.
Doron Lamb: It was a typical game for Lamb. He made shots, handled the ball well enough, and did what he could do to help out. Uncharacteristically Lamb didn’t try much from the outside, but in that mid-range he showed how he can be so lethal. His space dribble is second to none in the class, and once his feet are set, it always looks like it is going in.
Cory Joseph: Joseph just has a calm to him that was evident. Even with the game being helter skelter, Joseph seemed to always be in control, and always playing at his pace. That quality in a floor general is great. Jones’ lone bucket of the evening was an impressive looking shot from the perimeter in which he created space for himself. More than scoring, it was the way that he controlled the flow of the game when in that was impressive.
Josh Smith: It is disappointing that Smith came into the game so out of shape. He had a nice spin for a bucket, ran the floor, showed his good hands, and rebounded the ball in his area. The problem was, he also was a liability on defense because he couldn’t move as well as normal, he wasn’t a factor blocking or altering shots. If Smith works his way back into shape, the talent is clearly there to be very good for a very long time.
Ray McCallum: McCallum couldn’t buy a bucket from the outside, but the rest of his game looked good as usual. The son of a coach, McCallum really has a great idea of how to play, and dished off a trio of impressive assists. Also he controls the game with his intelligence, and always seems to know how to make things happen. He isn’t super explosive off the bounce in terms of blowing by people, but he is steady and smooth as a ball handler who finds a way to get into the lane.
Brandon Knight: Knight did hit the game winner, and that was a good ending for him, but everything that came before that just didn’t work. Knight’s shot was off, and he seemed to get frustrated which led to several poor shots. The athleticism, quickness, and explosiveness are all still there, but he fell in love with his jump shot and that took away from his overall game.
Keith Appling: Appling had a game that quite honestly wasn’t his best. He was only 4-15 from the floor, and do too much else besides shoot from deep. Appling is a very good athlete, and a capable ball handler, but he settled a lot on Wednesday, and didn’t show off everything he is capable of doing.
Kyrie Irving: it is pretty safe to say that the Duke Blue Devils won’t have any issues at the point guard position next season. The New Jersey standout was on top of his game all week in Columbus and that carried over to the game. He was extremely efficient, and did everything a coach could want out of a point guard. He is slick with the ball in his hands, a good passer, and has a flair for the spectacular while also taking care of the ordinary. As far as guards go, Irving was as good as it gets.
Jared Sullinger: The big fella is just so posed down low with the ball and extremely fundamental. While not an explosive athlete like some of his peers, Sullinger showed off his complete game. He started off his scoring by hitting a three, then went to work down low. Also his foul shooting was excellent. As always Sullinger was good on the glass. He looked like a day one impact guy with his performance.
C.J. Leslie: Overall it was an interesting week for Leslie, but on Wednesday night he showed a lot of what makes him so intriguing. Leslie had a few impressive shot blocks, he attacked the glass relentlessly, and also used his length and athleticism to score down low. When aggressive he is tough to match up with, and on Wednesday that was the case.
Tobias Harris: Unfortunately Harris broke his toe, and wasn’t able to finish out the game, but when on the floor he was extremely impressive. The face up forward scored inside and out, and also got on the glass rebounding. Beyond that he showed his tremendous feel for the game with excellent passing. His skill set is off the charts.
Reggie Bullock: Bullock isn’t someone who thrives in an all-star game setting, but he got hot on Wednesday. After hitting a shot from deep, he crashed the boards, and also threw several nice outlet passes to start the break. There is no doubt he can shoot, and to his credit he lets the game come to him, but when he does everything is when he stands out, and he did more than just shoot with the bright lights on.
Josh Selby: He wasn’t as dominant during the game as he was during the practices and scrimmage, but still he was fairly good on Wednesday. Selby scored on his usual array of shots, and also used his athleticism to get to the rim. Beyond that Selby does defend very well, and at the next level he has the potential to be a lockdown type of guy. While he played out of control at times, he did a good job of not gunning, and being a lead guard.
Perry Jones: The game was a microcosm of Jones’ career. He did one or two things to wow you, but then disappears for long stretches. Jones hit a face up jumper, had some open dunks, and had a nice shot block, though it was incorrectly called goal tending, but other than that he was largely invisible. The tools are there, but soon he the production has to match the potential.
Kendall Marshall: All-star games aren’t where Marshall is going to show his stuff because he is so unselfish. Marshall is never going to be a big scorer, but he had several nice passes that either led directly to buckets, or set up a bucket off of another pass. He is the consummate floor general who did his best to simply fit in.
Deshaun Thomas: The final box score looked good for Thomas, 11 points and seven rebounds, but he wasn’t efficient at all. He struggled mightily from the field, and also didn’t get it going down low against bigger defensive players. Thomas looked like a power forward with some three point range. Obviously it wasn’t his best day, but in the end he did get buckets.
Jelan Kendrick: Kendrick was the last player to get in for the East team, and actually played the fewest minutes, so it was tough to get a good feel for his game. He did have one nice baseline drive for a dunk, but other than that he was largely not heard from. Kendrick has the natural tools, but he just didn’t get an opportunity to do much on Wednesday.
Joe Jackson: After getting some criticism for not passing earlier in the week, Jackson was unselfish during the big game. He had a few nice passes that led to buckets, and also one hoop to crack the scorebook. Not a huge game, and not much to go on, but definitely a step in the right direction for the floor general.
Jayvaughn Pinkston: It was a tough end to a tough week. Pinkston never got into rhythm during the game, and finished 2-8 from the floor and really struggled at times. He is an undersized four who is at his best in the half court, and this was a full court game. Pinkston definitely will fill a role, but this wasn’t his finest hour.
West All-Americans
Harrison Barnes: The steady senior did it all for the West squad. He finished with 18 points, and scored in a variety of ways. As usual in an all-star game he got a few cheap points on dunks, but also he hit a three, scored off the dribble, and also was a facilitator for his teammates. Add in that Barnes proved he could guard multiple positions, and he came home with the MVP trophy for a reason.
Terrence Jones: Quietly Jones managed to have an excellent game. He didn’t rebound like maybe you would have liked out of a power forward, but he is active down low, can block shots, and just knows how to score. With his body and athleticism, there just aren’t many matchups for Jones, and he showed what he is capable of with his performance.
Fabrico de Melo: The Brazilian didn’t put up a ton of points, but he did everything else for his team. He blocked shots, made excellent passes, ran the floor, played defense, and overall was a major factor on the game. He will need to get stronger in college, but still he played excellent and did all the little things down low to help the West.
Tristan Thompson: It was a solid and efficient game for the Texas bound big man. Thompson looked to have more bounce off the floor than earlier this season, and finished around the rim well. Also with his length he altered shots, and was simply a big problem inside the paint. When he plays hard and active like this, he can make things very difficult on defenders.
Jereme Richmond: In a game where efficiency can often times be thrown away for the sake of a highlight, Richmond showed how important it is. He only took seven shots, finished with 11 points, and was just solid and let the game come to him. As usual he scored mostly for the mid-range, and didn’t have the flash and dash to him, but at the end of the day Richmond just gets buckets and puts up numbers.
Patric Young: The only way to describe him is “animal”. Young pulled in nine rebounds, and as usual did damage around and above the rim. He just shows a knack for knowing how to get rebounds, and that is something that can’t be taught. Add in his athleticism, and Young put on a good performance. Now he must improve his skill level.
Doron Lamb: It was a typical game for Lamb. He made shots, handled the ball well enough, and did what he could do to help out. Uncharacteristically Lamb didn’t try much from the outside, but in that mid-range he showed how he can be so lethal. His space dribble is second to none in the class, and once his feet are set, it always looks like it is going in.
Cory Joseph: Joseph just has a calm to him that was evident. Even with the game being helter skelter, Joseph seemed to always be in control, and always playing at his pace. That quality in a floor general is great. Jones’ lone bucket of the evening was an impressive looking shot from the perimeter in which he created space for himself. More than scoring, it was the way that he controlled the flow of the game when in that was impressive.
Josh Smith: It is disappointing that Smith came into the game so out of shape. He had a nice spin for a bucket, ran the floor, showed his good hands, and rebounded the ball in his area. The problem was, he also was a liability on defense because he couldn’t move as well as normal, he wasn’t a factor blocking or altering shots. If Smith works his way back into shape, the talent is clearly there to be very good for a very long time.
Ray McCallum: McCallum couldn’t buy a bucket from the outside, but the rest of his game looked good as usual. The son of a coach, McCallum really has a great idea of how to play, and dished off a trio of impressive assists. Also he controls the game with his intelligence, and always seems to know how to make things happen. He isn’t super explosive off the bounce in terms of blowing by people, but he is steady and smooth as a ball handler who finds a way to get into the lane.
Brandon Knight: Knight did hit the game winner, and that was a good ending for him, but everything that came before that just didn’t work. Knight’s shot was off, and he seemed to get frustrated which led to several poor shots. The athleticism, quickness, and explosiveness are all still there, but he fell in love with his jump shot and that took away from his overall game.
Keith Appling: Appling had a game that quite honestly wasn’t his best. He was only 4-15 from the floor, and do too much else besides shoot from deep. Appling is a very good athlete, and a capable ball handler, but he settled a lot on Wednesday, and didn’t show off everything he is capable of doing.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Jordan Brand Classic Regional Rosters
City Team (TBD Jerseys)
1 Shane Southwell W 6-6 185 Rice High School (New York, NY) Kansas St.
2 Branden Frazier SG 6-3 180 Bishop Loughlin High School (Brooklyn, NY) Undecided
5 Jeffrey Short SG 6-3 180 John F. Kennedy High School (Bronx, NY) Undecided
10 David Coley G 6-2 180 Thomas Jefferson High School (Brooklyn, NY) Stonybrook
15 Maurice Barrow SF 6-5 210 Christ the King High School (Middle Village, NY) Undecided
21 Leroy Isler SF 6-5 185 Boys & Girls High School (Brooklyn, NY) Undecided
22 Kadeem Jack PF 6-8 210 Rice High School (New York, NY) Undecided
24 Malik Thomas SF 6-6 175 Wadleigh High School (New York, NY) Boston U.
31 Michael Alvarado PG 6-2 190 All Hallows High School (Bronx, NY) Manhattan
34 Ryan Rhoomes PF/C 6-8 205 Cardozo High School (Bayside, NY) Undecided
Coaches:
Paul Gilvary (Holy Cross High School/Flushing, NY)
Edwin Gonzalez (Bishop Loughlin High School/Brooklyn, NY)
Suburban Team (TBD Jerseys)
3 Marcus Henderson PG 5-6 140 Newburgh Free Academy (Newburgh, NY) Undecided
14 Antoine Mason SG 6-2 185 New Rochelle High School (New Rochelle, NY) Undecided
20 Aaron Brown SG 6-5 185 St. Benedict’s Prep (Newark, NJ) Temple
21 Jason Morris SF 6-6 204 The Hotchkiss School (Lakeville, CT) Georgia Tech
22 Fuquan Edwin W 6-5 200 Paterson Catholic High School (Paterson, NJ) Seton Hall
24 Ronald Roberts PF 6-7 210 Saint Peter’s Preparatory School (Jersey City, NJ) St. John’s
30 Gilvydas Biruta PF 6-8 240 St. Benedict’s Prep (Newark, NJ) Rutgers
32 Derrick Williams PF 6-6 250 St. Anthony High School (Jersey City, NJ) Richmond
33 Brian Voelkel SF/PF 6-5 215 Iona Preparatory School (New Rochelle, NY) Vermont
44 J.J. Moore SF 6-5 200 South Kent School (South Kent, CT) Pittsburgh
Coaches:
Mike Kelly (Saint Peter’s Preparatory School/Jersey City, NJ)
Bill Murphy (New Rochelle High School/New Rochelle, NY)
1 Shane Southwell W 6-6 185 Rice High School (New York, NY) Kansas St.
2 Branden Frazier SG 6-3 180 Bishop Loughlin High School (Brooklyn, NY) Undecided
5 Jeffrey Short SG 6-3 180 John F. Kennedy High School (Bronx, NY) Undecided
10 David Coley G 6-2 180 Thomas Jefferson High School (Brooklyn, NY) Stonybrook
15 Maurice Barrow SF 6-5 210 Christ the King High School (Middle Village, NY) Undecided
21 Leroy Isler SF 6-5 185 Boys & Girls High School (Brooklyn, NY) Undecided
22 Kadeem Jack PF 6-8 210 Rice High School (New York, NY) Undecided
24 Malik Thomas SF 6-6 175 Wadleigh High School (New York, NY) Boston U.
31 Michael Alvarado PG 6-2 190 All Hallows High School (Bronx, NY) Manhattan
34 Ryan Rhoomes PF/C 6-8 205 Cardozo High School (Bayside, NY) Undecided
Coaches:
Paul Gilvary (Holy Cross High School/Flushing, NY)
Edwin Gonzalez (Bishop Loughlin High School/Brooklyn, NY)
Suburban Team (TBD Jerseys)
3 Marcus Henderson PG 5-6 140 Newburgh Free Academy (Newburgh, NY) Undecided
14 Antoine Mason SG 6-2 185 New Rochelle High School (New Rochelle, NY) Undecided
20 Aaron Brown SG 6-5 185 St. Benedict’s Prep (Newark, NJ) Temple
21 Jason Morris SF 6-6 204 The Hotchkiss School (Lakeville, CT) Georgia Tech
22 Fuquan Edwin W 6-5 200 Paterson Catholic High School (Paterson, NJ) Seton Hall
24 Ronald Roberts PF 6-7 210 Saint Peter’s Preparatory School (Jersey City, NJ) St. John’s
30 Gilvydas Biruta PF 6-8 240 St. Benedict’s Prep (Newark, NJ) Rutgers
32 Derrick Williams PF 6-6 250 St. Anthony High School (Jersey City, NJ) Richmond
33 Brian Voelkel SF/PF 6-5 215 Iona Preparatory School (New Rochelle, NY) Vermont
44 J.J. Moore SF 6-5 200 South Kent School (South Kent, CT) Pittsburgh
Coaches:
Mike Kelly (Saint Peter’s Preparatory School/Jersey City, NJ)
Bill Murphy (New Rochelle High School/New Rochelle, NY)
Interview with Quincy Miller- Determined to be top player in class of 2011
1. Who is the best player you have ever played against? Why was this player so hard to guard or score against?
The best player I ever played was John Wall because he is really fast and he knows the game from a point guard stand point.
2. What schools are at the top of your recruiting list?
I haven’t created a list but its every school in the country recruiting me.
3. Who do you think is the best player in the class of 2011 is and why?
I think I am the best player in my class because I can play all positions except point guard and I can do anything on the floor; also i have a high basketball IQ and great attitude and work ethic.
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
My first letter was my sophomore year and from Wake Forest.
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
Kevin Durant because I’m skinny but we can shoot and score the ball in any way.
6. How do you workout during the school year?
I have a 6 a.m workout with cones for footwork; 4:30 practice with team; shooting and dribbling drills for a hour and a half after practice.
7. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
Stargell Love
8. What player do you emulate?
LeBron James
9. Who is your role model?
LeBron James
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I have to get better at everything.
11. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
7th grade when i was about 5'10.
12. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
My strongest characteristics are my work ethic and dedication.
13. Who was your favorite NBA player and team?
LeBron James and Cavaliers
14. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team do you play on?
I like AAU better and I play for D-one Sports.
15. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
Anesthsiologist; Medical field
16. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
I feel great! I came from the bottom to the top so its pretty unbelievable when they ask me for one.
17. What's your proudest basketball moment?
When I scored 67 last summer in front of the first game my mother came to.
18. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
Find a school or team that can get you exposed or work as hard as you can and the exposure will come to you.
19. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
Football is my favorite sport other than basketball.
20. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
I want another national championship and I want to show the world I’m the best player in 2011.
The best player I ever played was John Wall because he is really fast and he knows the game from a point guard stand point.
2. What schools are at the top of your recruiting list?
I haven’t created a list but its every school in the country recruiting me.
3. Who do you think is the best player in the class of 2011 is and why?
I think I am the best player in my class because I can play all positions except point guard and I can do anything on the floor; also i have a high basketball IQ and great attitude and work ethic.
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
My first letter was my sophomore year and from Wake Forest.
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
Kevin Durant because I’m skinny but we can shoot and score the ball in any way.
6. How do you workout during the school year?
I have a 6 a.m workout with cones for footwork; 4:30 practice with team; shooting and dribbling drills for a hour and a half after practice.
7. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
Stargell Love
8. What player do you emulate?
LeBron James
9. Who is your role model?
LeBron James
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I have to get better at everything.
11. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
7th grade when i was about 5'10.
12. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
My strongest characteristics are my work ethic and dedication.
13. Who was your favorite NBA player and team?
LeBron James and Cavaliers
14. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team do you play on?
I like AAU better and I play for D-one Sports.
15. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
Anesthsiologist; Medical field
16. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
I feel great! I came from the bottom to the top so its pretty unbelievable when they ask me for one.
17. What's your proudest basketball moment?
When I scored 67 last summer in front of the first game my mother came to.
18. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
Find a school or team that can get you exposed or work as hard as you can and the exposure will come to you.
19. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
Football is my favorite sport other than basketball.
20. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
I want another national championship and I want to show the world I’m the best player in 2011.
Interview with Tony Mitchell- NBA Potential
1. Who is the best player you have ever played against? Why was this player so hard to guard or score against?
Vince Carter because he is very smart and knows the game inside and out. He is also a great teacher.
2. What schools are at the top of your recruiting list as of right now?( This interview was done before he committed to Missouri)
Missouri, Georgetown, Marquette, Baylor, Cincinnati, Kentucky, Oklahoma, North Texas, And FIU are my top schools.
3. Who do you think is the best player in the class of 2010 is and why?
I really don’t know because everybody is good but I will have to go out and say Harrison Barnes. He's versatile and can score the ball at any given moment.
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
Sophomore Year, I received a letter from Buzz Williams from Marquette.
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to?
I think probably Shawn Marion or Tracy McGrady.
6. How do you workout during the school year?
You have to work hard. I work extremely hard on my weaknesses and even strong points.
7. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
I probably have to say the whole Brandon Bass Elite Team. Their very supportive and really just care about others more than them self.
8. What player do you emulate?
I just go out there and play the game hard to try to make a name for myself.
9. Who is your role model?
My mother, she is so amazing. She supports me in everything I do and she is so loving and caring.
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I have to work on every aspect of my game. Defense, Shooting, Dribbling, Ect.
11. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
The summer going into my 9th Grade year at the YMCA, it was a basic 1 hand tomahawk.
12. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
I would say probably my height, strength and versatility on the basketball court
13. Who were your favorite NBA player and team?
Tracy McGrady is my favorite player because he is a smooth player and the Cleveland Cavaliers because they are exciting to watch.
14. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team did you play on?
I like AAU better because you get to travel and play against better competition and talent around the U.S. I played for the Brandon Bass Elite.
15. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
Business Administration, because I love Math and I always wanted to run my own Business or a Social Worker to help young people in their life and be a role model towards others.
16. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
It's just amazing I never know why but I feel great.
17. What's your proudest basketball moment?
This summer at Nike Global Challenge to be picked to play in that prestigious tournament was amazing.
18. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
Keep working hard because YOU will get seen. Stay positive and dream for the best.
19. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
Football, a sport that I use to love but I got over it because it wasn’t my first love.
20. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
Finish my senior year strong academically and physically on the court. Also, to visit Austin and win a State Title
Thank you for your time Tony and good luck with the rest of your career!
Vince Carter because he is very smart and knows the game inside and out. He is also a great teacher.
2. What schools are at the top of your recruiting list as of right now?( This interview was done before he committed to Missouri)
Missouri, Georgetown, Marquette, Baylor, Cincinnati, Kentucky, Oklahoma, North Texas, And FIU are my top schools.
3. Who do you think is the best player in the class of 2010 is and why?
I really don’t know because everybody is good but I will have to go out and say Harrison Barnes. He's versatile and can score the ball at any given moment.
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
Sophomore Year, I received a letter from Buzz Williams from Marquette.
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to?
I think probably Shawn Marion or Tracy McGrady.
6. How do you workout during the school year?
You have to work hard. I work extremely hard on my weaknesses and even strong points.
7. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
I probably have to say the whole Brandon Bass Elite Team. Their very supportive and really just care about others more than them self.
8. What player do you emulate?
I just go out there and play the game hard to try to make a name for myself.
9. Who is your role model?
My mother, she is so amazing. She supports me in everything I do and she is so loving and caring.
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I have to work on every aspect of my game. Defense, Shooting, Dribbling, Ect.
11. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
The summer going into my 9th Grade year at the YMCA, it was a basic 1 hand tomahawk.
12. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
I would say probably my height, strength and versatility on the basketball court
13. Who were your favorite NBA player and team?
Tracy McGrady is my favorite player because he is a smooth player and the Cleveland Cavaliers because they are exciting to watch.
14. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team did you play on?
I like AAU better because you get to travel and play against better competition and talent around the U.S. I played for the Brandon Bass Elite.
15. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
Business Administration, because I love Math and I always wanted to run my own Business or a Social Worker to help young people in their life and be a role model towards others.
16. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
It's just amazing I never know why but I feel great.
17. What's your proudest basketball moment?
This summer at Nike Global Challenge to be picked to play in that prestigious tournament was amazing.
18. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
Keep working hard because YOU will get seen. Stay positive and dream for the best.
19. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
Football, a sport that I use to love but I got over it because it wasn’t my first love.
20. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
Finish my senior year strong academically and physically on the court. Also, to visit Austin and win a State Title
Thank you for your time Tony and good luck with the rest of your career!
Jordan Brand Classic All American Rosters
2010 Jordan Brand All-American Team
East Team
Reggie Bullock G Kinston, NC North Carolina
Kyrie Irving G Elizabeth, NJ Duke
Perry Jones C Duncanville, TX Baylor
Jelan Kendrick F Marietta, GA Memphis
Brandon Knight G Fort Lauderdale, FL Undecided
C.J. Leslie F Raleigh, NC Undecided
Roscoe Smith F Mouth of Wilson, VA Connecticut
Jared Sullinger C Columbus, OH Ohio State
DeShaun Thomas F Fort Wayne, IN Ohio State
Dion Waiters G Philadelphia, PA Syracuse
Head Coach: Greg Wise, Yates High School (Houston, TX)
Assistant: Charles Smith, Peabody Magnet High School (Alexandria, LA)
Assistant: Doug Lipscomb, Wheeler High School (Marietta, GA)
West Team
Harrison Barnes F Ames, IA North Carolina
Will Barton G Wolfeboro, NH Memphis
Tobias Harris F Dix Hills, NY Tennessee
Terrence Jones F Portland, OR Undecided
Cory Joseph G Henderson, NV Undecided
Doron Lamb G Mouth of Wilson, VA Undecided
Kendall Marshall G Arlington, VA North Carolina
Josh Selby G Baltimore, MD Undecided
Joshua Smith C Covington, WA UCLA
Tristan Thompson F Henderson, NV Texas
Head Coach: Mike Peck, Findlay Prep (Henderson, NV)
Assistant: Pat Striclkand, Jefferson High School (Portland, OR)
Assistant: Mark Mugiishi, Iolani School (Iolani, HI)
East Team
Reggie Bullock G Kinston, NC North Carolina
Kyrie Irving G Elizabeth, NJ Duke
Perry Jones C Duncanville, TX Baylor
Jelan Kendrick F Marietta, GA Memphis
Brandon Knight G Fort Lauderdale, FL Undecided
C.J. Leslie F Raleigh, NC Undecided
Roscoe Smith F Mouth of Wilson, VA Connecticut
Jared Sullinger C Columbus, OH Ohio State
DeShaun Thomas F Fort Wayne, IN Ohio State
Dion Waiters G Philadelphia, PA Syracuse
Head Coach: Greg Wise, Yates High School (Houston, TX)
Assistant: Charles Smith, Peabody Magnet High School (Alexandria, LA)
Assistant: Doug Lipscomb, Wheeler High School (Marietta, GA)
West Team
Harrison Barnes F Ames, IA North Carolina
Will Barton G Wolfeboro, NH Memphis
Tobias Harris F Dix Hills, NY Tennessee
Terrence Jones F Portland, OR Undecided
Cory Joseph G Henderson, NV Undecided
Doron Lamb G Mouth of Wilson, VA Undecided
Kendall Marshall G Arlington, VA North Carolina
Josh Selby G Baltimore, MD Undecided
Joshua Smith C Covington, WA UCLA
Tristan Thompson F Henderson, NV Texas
Head Coach: Mike Peck, Findlay Prep (Henderson, NV)
Assistant: Pat Striclkand, Jefferson High School (Portland, OR)
Assistant: Mark Mugiishi, Iolani School (Iolani, HI)
Daniel Orton Interview- 2010 or 2011 First Round Pick?
1. Who is the best player you have ever played against? Why was this player so hard to guard or score against?
Blake Griffin, enough said
2. Why did you choose Kentucky over the other schools that heavily recruited you?
Kentucky seemed like the right fit and I got along with all the other players well, really liked the coaches and the fans were my main reason. They're craziness and dedication to this sport.
3. Who do you think is the best player in college basketball and why?
Best player in college basketball isn't clarified we haven't started playing yet.
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
My first letter came from Baylor my freshmen year.
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
I don't compare myself to any player in the NBA none of those players really play like I do.
6. How do you workout during the school year?
During the school year we lift about four days and practice 2 days for now.
7. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
My favorite teammate(s) were my high school teammates they were my best friends and we ALWAYS hung out together.
8. What player do you emulate?
I try to draw different styles from all players such as Kevin Garnett, Tim Duncan and Amare Stoudamire.
9. Who is your role model?
My role model is and forever will be my mother. Her strength and intelligence inspired me to become the person I am today.
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
All around I have to perfect my game so I have to work on a lot of different areas of my game.
11. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
The first time I dunked in a game was my freshmen year in high school against P.C. North. Sam Bradford was actually playing against us that game (Laughs). This is what could have happened Blake Griffin, Sam Bradford, Xavier Henry, and I all lived 5 minutes away from Xavier's school and Sam's school so we all could have went to the same high school.
12. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
My work ethic is my greatest characteristic.
13. Who were your favorite NBA player and team?
My favorite NBA team is the Pistons. I really don't have a favorite player as of right now.
14. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team do you play on?
Both AAU and high school have their positives and negatives and they pretty much weigh out evenly. I played on Athletes First.
15. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
My major right now is Accounting, I like dealing with numbers. After basketball I don't know what I’m going to do yet though.
16. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
It feels good.
17. What's your proudest basketball moment?
Winning three State Championships
18. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
Get exposure, it's up to you to communicate with people and get yourself out there. If you can truly play though you will be found.
19. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
My favorite sport other than basketball is bowling.
20. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
To do the best we can, and to be the best that I can be.
21. Who has impressed you the most on Kentucky?
Coach Cal.
Thanks for your time Daniel and good luck in the future!
Blake Griffin, enough said
2. Why did you choose Kentucky over the other schools that heavily recruited you?
Kentucky seemed like the right fit and I got along with all the other players well, really liked the coaches and the fans were my main reason. They're craziness and dedication to this sport.
3. Who do you think is the best player in college basketball and why?
Best player in college basketball isn't clarified we haven't started playing yet.
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
My first letter came from Baylor my freshmen year.
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
I don't compare myself to any player in the NBA none of those players really play like I do.
6. How do you workout during the school year?
During the school year we lift about four days and practice 2 days for now.
7. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
My favorite teammate(s) were my high school teammates they were my best friends and we ALWAYS hung out together.
8. What player do you emulate?
I try to draw different styles from all players such as Kevin Garnett, Tim Duncan and Amare Stoudamire.
9. Who is your role model?
My role model is and forever will be my mother. Her strength and intelligence inspired me to become the person I am today.
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
All around I have to perfect my game so I have to work on a lot of different areas of my game.
11. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
The first time I dunked in a game was my freshmen year in high school against P.C. North. Sam Bradford was actually playing against us that game (Laughs). This is what could have happened Blake Griffin, Sam Bradford, Xavier Henry, and I all lived 5 minutes away from Xavier's school and Sam's school so we all could have went to the same high school.
12. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
My work ethic is my greatest characteristic.
13. Who were your favorite NBA player and team?
My favorite NBA team is the Pistons. I really don't have a favorite player as of right now.
14. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team do you play on?
Both AAU and high school have their positives and negatives and they pretty much weigh out evenly. I played on Athletes First.
15. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
My major right now is Accounting, I like dealing with numbers. After basketball I don't know what I’m going to do yet though.
16. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
It feels good.
17. What's your proudest basketball moment?
Winning three State Championships
18. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
Get exposure, it's up to you to communicate with people and get yourself out there. If you can truly play though you will be found.
19. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
My favorite sport other than basketball is bowling.
20. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
To do the best we can, and to be the best that I can be.
21. Who has impressed you the most on Kentucky?
Coach Cal.
Thanks for your time Daniel and good luck in the future!
Gordon Hayward Interview- Star of Underdog Final Four team, Butler.
1. Who is the best player you have ever played against? Why was this player so hard to guard or score against?
Stephen Curry is the best player I have ever played against. He is so good because he has such a quick release and has a knack for putting the ball in the basket.
2. Why did you choose Butler over the other schools that heavily recruited you?
I chose Butler over the other schools because it is close to home, the coaches are great, and the people involved in the system make it feel like a family.
3. Who do you think is the best player in college basketball is and why?
I cannot name one player in college basketball who is the best, but I have a lot of respect for Evan Turner from OSU because he plays a very similar game to me.
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
I got my first letter when I was a sophomore in high school from Blackford University, which is a D-3 or something like that.
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
I always get compared to Mike Dunleavy Jr. because we have similar frames and similar games.
6. How do you workout during the school year?
We workout in the morning before anyone has classes.
7. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
I cannot name a favorite teammate because we are all close. I hang out with all of the sophomores the most.
8. What player do you emulate?
I would say Mike Dunleavy Jr. if I had to name one person that I emulate.
9. Who is your role model?
My father is my role model.
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I need to improve everything in my game to get better. I really need to get stronger and improve my inside game as well.
11. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
The first time I dunked in a game was my sophomore year in high school.
12. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
I think the strongest characteristic in my game is my unselfishness and my willingness to do anything for the team to win.
13. Who are your favorite NBA player and team?
My favorite NBA player is LeBron James.
14. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team do you play on?
I liked school basketball the best. I played on Municipal Gardens when I was growing up.
15. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
I do not exactly know what I plan on doing after basketball, but right now I am majoring in computer engineering and math.
16. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
It feels kind of weird when people ask for my autograph because I never could imagine people ever asking me for it. But I am always happy to do it for people.
17. What's your proudest basketball moment?
My proudest basketball moment is hitting the game winning shot with 2.1 seconds left to win the state championship for our high school.
18. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
I would say that someone is always looking so don’t worry about it and just do your thing out on the court.
19. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
My favorite sport other than basketball is tennis.
20. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
I plan on winning the national championship this year. Individually I plan on doing everything I can to get our team to that point.
Thanks for your time Gordon and good luck in the Final Four!
Stephen Curry is the best player I have ever played against. He is so good because he has such a quick release and has a knack for putting the ball in the basket.
2. Why did you choose Butler over the other schools that heavily recruited you?
I chose Butler over the other schools because it is close to home, the coaches are great, and the people involved in the system make it feel like a family.
3. Who do you think is the best player in college basketball is and why?
I cannot name one player in college basketball who is the best, but I have a lot of respect for Evan Turner from OSU because he plays a very similar game to me.
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
I got my first letter when I was a sophomore in high school from Blackford University, which is a D-3 or something like that.
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
I always get compared to Mike Dunleavy Jr. because we have similar frames and similar games.
6. How do you workout during the school year?
We workout in the morning before anyone has classes.
7. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
I cannot name a favorite teammate because we are all close. I hang out with all of the sophomores the most.
8. What player do you emulate?
I would say Mike Dunleavy Jr. if I had to name one person that I emulate.
9. Who is your role model?
My father is my role model.
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I need to improve everything in my game to get better. I really need to get stronger and improve my inside game as well.
11. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
The first time I dunked in a game was my sophomore year in high school.
12. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
I think the strongest characteristic in my game is my unselfishness and my willingness to do anything for the team to win.
13. Who are your favorite NBA player and team?
My favorite NBA player is LeBron James.
14. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team do you play on?
I liked school basketball the best. I played on Municipal Gardens when I was growing up.
15. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
I do not exactly know what I plan on doing after basketball, but right now I am majoring in computer engineering and math.
16. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
It feels kind of weird when people ask for my autograph because I never could imagine people ever asking me for it. But I am always happy to do it for people.
17. What's your proudest basketball moment?
My proudest basketball moment is hitting the game winning shot with 2.1 seconds left to win the state championship for our high school.
18. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
I would say that someone is always looking so don’t worry about it and just do your thing out on the court.
19. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
My favorite sport other than basketball is tennis.
20. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
I plan on winning the national championship this year. Individually I plan on doing everything I can to get our team to that point.
Thanks for your time Gordon and good luck in the Final Four!
Interview with James McAdoo- Future Tarheel
1. Who is the best player you have ever played against? Why was this player so hard to guard or score against?
The best player I have ever faced is Tyler Hansbrough. He is just so strong and has such a feel for the game it's hard to find a weakness about him.
2. Why did you choose North Carolina over the other schools that heavily recruited you last year?
North Carolina was the best fit for me and i felt that they would best develop my skills and prepare me for life in general. They also treated me like family from the very beginning and took care of not just me but my family.
3. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
The first school to recruit me was UCLA, they sent me a letter when I was in the eight grade.
4. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
Marvin Williams, I am versatile and able to play multiple positions.
5. How do you workout during the school year?
I do weight work three day's a week and always put up shots afterwards. I do plyometrics two days a week trying to get faster and quicker. I do basketball everyday, either working on my handles or shooting or just playing pick up.
6. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
Blake Hadely is my best teammate.
7. What player do you emulate?
Kobe Bryant is the player I try to emulate the most.
8. Who is your role model?
My dad, Ronnie McAdoo is my role model.
9. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I need to improve on everything.
10. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
I didn't dunk in a game until my ninth grade school basketball season.
11. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
My ability to do a little bit of everything and do it consistently.
12. Who was your favorite NBA player and team?
My favorite NBA player is Danny Granger, and my favorite team is the Lakers.
13. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team did you play on?
I like playing for my school more than AAU. I play for Boo Williams 17 and under AAU team.
14. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
I plan on pursuing a basketball career in the NBA. I plan on majoring in something to do with architecture.
15. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
When asked for my autograph it does not feel that weird. I've gotten used to it and sort of enjoy it.
16. What's your proudest basketball moment?
My proudest basketball moment was winning the TCIS tournament last year when no one picked us to do it.
17. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
Well truthfully if you can play they will find you, my best advice is keep working and keep God first and he will have his way in your life.
18. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
My favorite sport other than basketball is baseball.
19. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
Win the TCIS and states. Individually I just want to do the best I can and win both the TCIS and states for not just me but my teammates.
20. Who do you think is the best player in the class of 2011?
I feel that I am the best player in the class of 2011, because of my versatility and the fact I haven't reached my potential.
Thank you for your time James and good luck in the future!
The best player I have ever faced is Tyler Hansbrough. He is just so strong and has such a feel for the game it's hard to find a weakness about him.
2. Why did you choose North Carolina over the other schools that heavily recruited you last year?
North Carolina was the best fit for me and i felt that they would best develop my skills and prepare me for life in general. They also treated me like family from the very beginning and took care of not just me but my family.
3. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
The first school to recruit me was UCLA, they sent me a letter when I was in the eight grade.
4. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
Marvin Williams, I am versatile and able to play multiple positions.
5. How do you workout during the school year?
I do weight work three day's a week and always put up shots afterwards. I do plyometrics two days a week trying to get faster and quicker. I do basketball everyday, either working on my handles or shooting or just playing pick up.
6. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
Blake Hadely is my best teammate.
7. What player do you emulate?
Kobe Bryant is the player I try to emulate the most.
8. Who is your role model?
My dad, Ronnie McAdoo is my role model.
9. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I need to improve on everything.
10. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
I didn't dunk in a game until my ninth grade school basketball season.
11. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
My ability to do a little bit of everything and do it consistently.
12. Who was your favorite NBA player and team?
My favorite NBA player is Danny Granger, and my favorite team is the Lakers.
13. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team did you play on?
I like playing for my school more than AAU. I play for Boo Williams 17 and under AAU team.
14. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
I plan on pursuing a basketball career in the NBA. I plan on majoring in something to do with architecture.
15. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
When asked for my autograph it does not feel that weird. I've gotten used to it and sort of enjoy it.
16. What's your proudest basketball moment?
My proudest basketball moment was winning the TCIS tournament last year when no one picked us to do it.
17. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
Well truthfully if you can play they will find you, my best advice is keep working and keep God first and he will have his way in your life.
18. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
My favorite sport other than basketball is baseball.
19. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
Win the TCIS and states. Individually I just want to do the best I can and win both the TCIS and states for not just me but my teammates.
20. Who do you think is the best player in the class of 2011?
I feel that I am the best player in the class of 2011, because of my versatility and the fact I haven't reached my potential.
Thank you for your time James and good luck in the future!
Interview with Leo Lyons- " Will be in NBA next year"
1. Who is the best player you have ever played against? Why was this player so hard to guard or score against?
The best player that I have played against is Ron Artest. I like to score and he is a defender so I had to deal with somebody alot stronger than me and figure out ways to score differently every play.
2. Why did you choose Missouri over the other schools that heavily recruited you last year?
I chose Missouri for family issues, my original choice was Kentucky but I was young and need to be close for support
3. What is the best advice you have ever recieved?
"Never play to the game to play, play to win" - Mike Anderson
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
I received my first letter in the 9th grade from Florida
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
If I had to compare myself to somebody it would be Kevin Durant because I am a tall perimeter player and have a long range of shooting
6. How do you workout during the school year?
I wake up early in the morning and lift weights then practice with the team and after that I work on alot of individual drills on offense
7. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
Ive had the luxury of being on good teams so I have like all my teammates really well
8. What player do you emulate?
As a player everybody wants to emulate the best so I try to learn small things from Michael Jordan
9. Who is your role model?
My Mother
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
Consistency
11. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
The first time I dunked was in the 8th grade at Arrowhead Middle School
12. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
Mental Strength, when things get tough or difficult it has to be a voice in your head telling you to keep going or you wont make it
13. Who was your favorite NBA player and team?
I am a Kobe Bryant fan and have been a Chicago Bulls fan since I was a kid
14. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team did you play on?
AAU basketball is 10 times better because alot of High School coaches force kids to play a certain way and dont allow them to shine. AAU basketball allows you to play against the best on a day to day basis and highlights the talented players.
15. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
After basketball I would love to still be involved with coaching.
16. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
Its a great feeling to know someone admires your game and recognizes you in the streets.
17. What's your proudest basketball moment?
Going to te Elite 8 last year. Even though we lost it was a great experience.
18. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
D-1 is not everything. If a kid believes he is a D-1 player and is forced to go play elsewhere than he/she should be that much better than everybody there and prove it. There has been many players to make it pro from D-2 and NAIA dont look at it as a bad situation and quit just keep fighting the good players always get found.
19. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
Bowling is a fun competitive sport and I love playing
20. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
I plan to win the Euro Cup, the most admired championship in the world
21. What NBA teams did you try out for?
I was on the Cavaliers but due to contract issues I was sent to Israel until next summer then you will see me in the NBA
22. What team are you on now? Do you like it in Europe?
I am currently on Hapoel Jerusalem a top team in Europe. I love it here they are so much more passionate about basketball than the States.
The best player that I have played against is Ron Artest. I like to score and he is a defender so I had to deal with somebody alot stronger than me and figure out ways to score differently every play.
2. Why did you choose Missouri over the other schools that heavily recruited you last year?
I chose Missouri for family issues, my original choice was Kentucky but I was young and need to be close for support
3. What is the best advice you have ever recieved?
"Never play to the game to play, play to win" - Mike Anderson
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
I received my first letter in the 9th grade from Florida
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
If I had to compare myself to somebody it would be Kevin Durant because I am a tall perimeter player and have a long range of shooting
6. How do you workout during the school year?
I wake up early in the morning and lift weights then practice with the team and after that I work on alot of individual drills on offense
7. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
Ive had the luxury of being on good teams so I have like all my teammates really well
8. What player do you emulate?
As a player everybody wants to emulate the best so I try to learn small things from Michael Jordan
9. Who is your role model?
My Mother
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
Consistency
11. When was the first time you dunked in a game?
The first time I dunked was in the 8th grade at Arrowhead Middle School
12. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
Mental Strength, when things get tough or difficult it has to be a voice in your head telling you to keep going or you wont make it
13. Who was your favorite NBA player and team?
I am a Kobe Bryant fan and have been a Chicago Bulls fan since I was a kid
14. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team did you play on?
AAU basketball is 10 times better because alot of High School coaches force kids to play a certain way and dont allow them to shine. AAU basketball allows you to play against the best on a day to day basis and highlights the talented players.
15. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
After basketball I would love to still be involved with coaching.
16. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
Its a great feeling to know someone admires your game and recognizes you in the streets.
17. What's your proudest basketball moment?
Going to te Elite 8 last year. Even though we lost it was a great experience.
18. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
D-1 is not everything. If a kid believes he is a D-1 player and is forced to go play elsewhere than he/she should be that much better than everybody there and prove it. There has been many players to make it pro from D-2 and NAIA dont look at it as a bad situation and quit just keep fighting the good players always get found.
19. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
Bowling is a fun competitive sport and I love playing
20. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
I plan to win the Euro Cup, the most admired championship in the world
21. What NBA teams did you try out for?
I was on the Cavaliers but due to contract issues I was sent to Israel until next summer then you will see me in the NBA
22. What team are you on now? Do you like it in Europe?
I am currently on Hapoel Jerusalem a top team in Europe. I love it here they are so much more passionate about basketball than the States.
Interview with Kendall Marshall- Best passer in class of 2010
1. Who is the best player you have ever played against? Why was this player so hard to guard or score against?
The best player I ever played against is Ty Lawson because of his strength and
quickness.
2. Why did you choose North Carolina over the other schools that heavily recruited you last year?
I chose North Carolina because it was my dream and where I always wanted to go.
3. Who do you think is the best player in the class of 2010?
The best player in 2010 in my opinion is Jared Sullinger due to his dominance
and and skill level.
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
I got my first recruitment letter in 8th grade from Vermont.
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
It’s hard for me to compare myself too someone but I have had people tell them I
remind them of Marcus Williams and Jason Kidd.
6. How do you workout during the school year?
I workout during the season just to keep my skills in check. During the season
is not the time to get better.
7. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
My favorite teammate was Ed Davis when we played AAU together because he made
the game very easy for me.
8. What player do you emulate?
I do not try to emulate anybody but instead take bits and pieces from a bunch of
players.
9. Who is your role model?
My role model is my grandmother.
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I have to improve my quickness and also my jump shot.
11. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team did you play on?
I think school and AAU both have their advantages so it is hard to choose one
over the other. I played for Boo Williams.
12. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
After basketball I want to pursue a career in being a Basketball Analyst. I plan to major in communications.
13. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
I feel like I owe it to them. It does not exactly give me a feeling.
14.What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
If you are good, they will find you. Do not use exposure as an excuse.
15. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
Other than basketball no other sports exist to me lol
16. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
This year I want to win my first State and Conference Championship and well and
making the McDonalds All American Game, the Jordan Classic, and All-Met POY.
Thank you Kendall and good luck with the North Carolina Tarheels next year!
The best player I ever played against is Ty Lawson because of his strength and
quickness.
2. Why did you choose North Carolina over the other schools that heavily recruited you last year?
I chose North Carolina because it was my dream and where I always wanted to go.
3. Who do you think is the best player in the class of 2010?
The best player in 2010 in my opinion is Jared Sullinger due to his dominance
and and skill level.
4. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
I got my first recruitment letter in 8th grade from Vermont.
5. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to and why?
It’s hard for me to compare myself too someone but I have had people tell them I
remind them of Marcus Williams and Jason Kidd.
6. How do you workout during the school year?
I workout during the season just to keep my skills in check. During the season
is not the time to get better.
7. Who is/was your favorite teammate?
My favorite teammate was Ed Davis when we played AAU together because he made
the game very easy for me.
8. What player do you emulate?
I do not try to emulate anybody but instead take bits and pieces from a bunch of
players.
9. Who is your role model?
My role model is my grandmother.
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I have to improve my quickness and also my jump shot.
11. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team did you play on?
I think school and AAU both have their advantages so it is hard to choose one
over the other. I played for Boo Williams.
12. What do you plan to do after basketball? What do you plan to major in?
After basketball I want to pursue a career in being a Basketball Analyst. I plan to major in communications.
13. How does it feel when people ask for your autograph?
I feel like I owe it to them. It does not exactly give me a feeling.
14.What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
If you are good, they will find you. Do not use exposure as an excuse.
15. What's your favorite sport other than basketball?
Other than basketball no other sports exist to me lol
16. What do you plan to accomplish as a team and individually this year?
This year I want to win my first State and Conference Championship and well and
making the McDonalds All American Game, the Jordan Classic, and All-Met POY.
Thank you Kendall and good luck with the North Carolina Tarheels next year!
Friday, April 2, 2010
Tobias Harris- Future face of Tennessee Basketball
Introduction to Tobias Harris
Tobias Harris, given the nickname “Nobody’s Smiling” by streetball mogul Bobbito Garcia, is the perfect name to describe this Tennessee commit. Tobias uses his versatility and smooth game play to make opponents just frown in their failed efforts. Considered the best scoring forward in this class, Tobias has been able to sprout up from being ranked in the mid 40’s last year to top 10 by every respected High School Rankings site.
“Still physically developing, Harris has an advanced skill level as a hybrid forward. He handles the ball at a high level and can score it with touch from the outside and also score inside with more of a power game. Best suited to guard a four man, Harris is a difficult match up for opposing four men with his versatile skill set”, is what Scout basketball rankings Jerry Meyer had to write about Tobias.
Basketball runs in the Harris family as his dad played at Duquesne and later became an NBA agent to Hall of Famer George Gervin, his sister played at Delaware and his younger brother Tyler is a junior on his Half Hollow Hills West team but intends to reclassify into the 2012 class and he is also receiving scholarships from high major colleges including UCONN, Hofstra, Fordham, and Duquesne.
The main reason for Tobias’ success is that he possesses probably the most needed tool in this game too, amazing work ethic which many phenoms lack. If you do not believe me look at this schedule for this rising star: on school days he spends eighth and ninth period in the gym shooting, then practices with his high school team, after that he goes to speed training at Parisi Speed School and to cap it off he finishes with a late night stop to the gym. This youngster never takes rests on breaks from school compiling this itinerary for his “break”. Weight training at 9 am, speed workout at 10, at 12 he works out with his trainer and then he has practice for school from 3-5. This persistence has allowed many scouts awe in amazement. The most impressive feature of his game has to be his Kobe like footwork which obviously has been worked on in some of these workouts. Some comparisons to a specific NBA player is Kevin Durant, with less of a wingspan. I say that because he could take less mobile forwards to the hole and if a smaller forward dare guard him he would just shoot over him similar to that mindset of Kevin. Tobias had a big season for his Half Hollows Hills West squad and recently participated in the McDonald's All American Game. Be ready to hear his name a lot next year as part of an elite eight team this year, the Tennessee Volunteers.
Tobias Harris, given the nickname “Nobody’s Smiling” by streetball mogul Bobbito Garcia, is the perfect name to describe this Tennessee commit. Tobias uses his versatility and smooth game play to make opponents just frown in their failed efforts. Considered the best scoring forward in this class, Tobias has been able to sprout up from being ranked in the mid 40’s last year to top 10 by every respected High School Rankings site.
“Still physically developing, Harris has an advanced skill level as a hybrid forward. He handles the ball at a high level and can score it with touch from the outside and also score inside with more of a power game. Best suited to guard a four man, Harris is a difficult match up for opposing four men with his versatile skill set”, is what Scout basketball rankings Jerry Meyer had to write about Tobias.
Basketball runs in the Harris family as his dad played at Duquesne and later became an NBA agent to Hall of Famer George Gervin, his sister played at Delaware and his younger brother Tyler is a junior on his Half Hollow Hills West team but intends to reclassify into the 2012 class and he is also receiving scholarships from high major colleges including UCONN, Hofstra, Fordham, and Duquesne.
The main reason for Tobias’ success is that he possesses probably the most needed tool in this game too, amazing work ethic which many phenoms lack. If you do not believe me look at this schedule for this rising star: on school days he spends eighth and ninth period in the gym shooting, then practices with his high school team, after that he goes to speed training at Parisi Speed School and to cap it off he finishes with a late night stop to the gym. This youngster never takes rests on breaks from school compiling this itinerary for his “break”. Weight training at 9 am, speed workout at 10, at 12 he works out with his trainer and then he has practice for school from 3-5. This persistence has allowed many scouts awe in amazement. The most impressive feature of his game has to be his Kobe like footwork which obviously has been worked on in some of these workouts. Some comparisons to a specific NBA player is Kevin Durant, with less of a wingspan. I say that because he could take less mobile forwards to the hole and if a smaller forward dare guard him he would just shoot over him similar to that mindset of Kevin. Tobias had a big season for his Half Hollows Hills West squad and recently participated in the McDonald's All American Game. Be ready to hear his name a lot next year as part of an elite eight team this year, the Tennessee Volunteers.
Interview with Patric Young
Interview with Patric Young
1. Who is the best player you have ever played against? Why was this player so hard to guard or score against?
Marreese Speights because of his size and athleticism. I couldn't get to the basket on him
2. Why did you choose Florida over the other schools that heavily recruited you?
It was my dream school plain and simple.
3. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to?
Everywhere I go I get compared to Dwight Howard.
4. How was it like playing in the McDonald's All American game?
It was hard man I had to go out there and get my points and rebounds because guards don't like giving the ball up. However Ray McCallum was probably the best passer on my team though.
5. Who impressed you the most over the weekend there? Who do you think is the best player in your class?
That's tough because I really only saw the East team play twice. I will give you my favorite though on the west and east. On the West was Terrance Jones and on the East was Kyrie Irving. The best player in the class I think should be out of Perry Jones and Corey Joseph.
6. Where do you think you should be ranked?
It's all politics and rankings aren't gonna help anyone in college, they don't matter at all.
7. How do you workout during the school year?
I have two coaches and lift weights with my dad
8. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team did you play on?
AAU because you don't have to worry about school work and you can just focus on basketball. I played on the Jacksonville Bulls
9. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
My strongest characteristic would be that I'm so passionate and hustle and never take a play off.
12. Who is your biggest role model?
Jesus Christ.
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I think i need to improve my offensive game.
11. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
I got my first letter from Jacksonville University my sophomore year
12. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
Never give up on your dream because you never know who is out there watching you.
Thank you Patric for your time and good luck with the Florida Gators next year!
1. Who is the best player you have ever played against? Why was this player so hard to guard or score against?
Marreese Speights because of his size and athleticism. I couldn't get to the basket on him
2. Why did you choose Florida over the other schools that heavily recruited you?
It was my dream school plain and simple.
3. What player in the NBA do you compare yourself to?
Everywhere I go I get compared to Dwight Howard.
4. How was it like playing in the McDonald's All American game?
It was hard man I had to go out there and get my points and rebounds because guards don't like giving the ball up. However Ray McCallum was probably the best passer on my team though.
5. Who impressed you the most over the weekend there? Who do you think is the best player in your class?
That's tough because I really only saw the East team play twice. I will give you my favorite though on the west and east. On the West was Terrance Jones and on the East was Kyrie Irving. The best player in the class I think should be out of Perry Jones and Corey Joseph.
6. Where do you think you should be ranked?
It's all politics and rankings aren't gonna help anyone in college, they don't matter at all.
7. How do you workout during the school year?
I have two coaches and lift weights with my dad
8. What do you like better AAU or school basketball? What AAU team did you play on?
AAU because you don't have to worry about school work and you can just focus on basketball. I played on the Jacksonville Bulls
9. What is your strongest characteristic in you being a great player?
My strongest characteristic would be that I'm so passionate and hustle and never take a play off.
12. Who is your biggest role model?
Jesus Christ.
10. What do you think you have to get better at in your game?
I think i need to improve my offensive game.
11. When did you get your first recruitment letter and from whom?
I got my first letter from Jacksonville University my sophomore year
12. What would you say to kids who want to play D-1 and beyond but can't get any exposure?
Never give up on your dream because you never know who is out there watching you.
Thank you Patric for your time and good luck with the Florida Gators next year!
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