Thursday, March 31, 2016

Taking a look at Kameron Johnson

Sometimes an element of trust is required when faced with a challenging decision. Former Granada High guard Kameron Johnson jumped into college basketball faith first and that conviction has been rewarded.

Despite a new coach as well as vastly different offensive and defensive systems than he learned in high school, the 6-foot-2 Johnson performed well at Las Positas College (LPC) for Coach James Giacomazzi in the 2015-16 season. Try a very solid 12.4 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game plus 33 steals. He was part of a team that finished 19-10 overall, 8-4 in the Coast Conference North.

Johnson said the transition required big picture thinking alongside incorporating new action and reactions. "It was about working towards a larger future, more than just the now, besides learning things like spacing, coming off screens and moving without the ball."

Here's Giacomazzi on Johnson: "Kameron is a terrific young man and basketball player. He comes from a super supportive family and that's why I think he is so grounded. Kameron is a Livermore guy who helped take his community's college to new heights. But the even more exciting thing is that this is just the beginning and the best is yet to come."

The convenience of Las Positas College aided his choice--"I live right around the corner"--but opportunity combined with a sense of being wanted as well as joining forces with a coach sporting a proven track record (Giacomazzi came to LPC from Cosumnes River College) were important to Johnson.

But all was not champagne and roses from the get-go--the learning curve was steep.

"We played in some showcases before the season and I think we went 1-6 and started off the regular season 2-5," Johnson recalled. "We were stagnant at first in a new system and hadn't really got a chance to play with each other due to injuries."

Nine games into the season, the individual and collective development began paying dividends, producing 10 consecutive victories for the Hawks from December 3 to January 13 which included three straight successes on the road at the Diablo Valley College tournament followed by three more at Skyline College.

Further evidence of individual and team growth came in February when LPC narrowly lost 74-73 to eventual state champion City College of San Francisco.

At season's end, the Hawks qualified for the state tournament and immediately took out West Hills Coalinga 66-57 before falling to College of the Sequoias 87-81. 

Johnson nominated his best moments as "winning the DVC and Skyline tournaments back-to-back." Those came at a sensitive time in which the Hawks could have easily tumbled into a downward spiral but instead the wins generated confidence.

Calling himself a demonstrative leader, he wants to expand that element by being more vocal on the court. Johnson also is working on improving his outside shooting and putting on weight. 

Top Flight Elite 17U Red roster & schedule

Below are the members of the Top Flight Elite 17U Red roster as well as the tournament participation schedule for the squad. Jamon Osby, of Bellarmine College Prep, is the head coach:

#0 - Alex Braken-Guelke, 6-foot-3, Los Gatos High, 2018

#1 - Logan Johnson, 6-foot-2, St. Francis High, 2018

#4 - Jake Wojcik, 6-foot-3, Bellarmine College Prep, 2018

#13 - Angelo Athens, 6-foot-2, Bellarmine College Prep, 2017

#14 - Jake Mihonivic, 6-foot-6, St. Francis High, 2017

#22 - Kyle Peterson, 6-foot-4, Archbishop Mitty, 2017

#24 - Dylan Belquist, 6-foot-7, Los Gatos High, 2018

#32 - Travis Friar, 6-foot-7, Archbishop Mitty, 2017

#33 - Ziggy Lauese, 6-foot-7, Sequoia High, 2018

The Schedule
  • April 9-10th – Hoop Review SoCal Spring Tip Off – Garden Grove, CA
  • April 15-17th – SoCal Hoop Review – Garden Grove, CA
  • April 22-24th – Pangos Spring Sweet 16 – Norwalk, CA
  • May 6-8th – Match Up City – Bay Area
  • May 27-30th – Bay Area Memorial Day Classic – Bay Area
  • July 6-10th – Double Pump Summer Tip-Off – Anaheim, CA
  • July 13-17th – Double Pump Best of Summer – Anaheim
  • July 20-24th – Fab 48 – Las Vegas, NV

Nevada 77, Morehead St. 68

Nevada bested Morehead State 77-68 last night in game two of the College Basketball Invitational championship series. Freshman Cameron Oliver posted a 14 point, 11 rebound double-double as well as sending three Morehead shot attempts in the opposite direction. The Wolf Pack shot 22-44 overall, 6-10 from long distance and lived at the foul line, 27-42, as the game had its rather chippy moments.

The series is tied at one apiece and the victor will be determined Friday, April 1 in Reno. Mills Lane better be called in to ref.

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Smith and USF

It's official with Kyle Smith and USF.

As an aside, the Dons are getting a hard-working individual with the necessary emotional intelligence to keep players and a program on an even keel. Smith prefers an up-tempo style, will recruit to that and make inroads into the talent available in northern California (a USF sore spot for some time now). As for any Australian recruiting connections, St. Mary's will remain the frontrunner for non one-and-done but still talented prospects but USF doesn't necessarily need that. Getting kids to come to San Francisco should not be a hard sell--the education is terrific, the city is booming with employment opportunities and the West Coast Conference has a fine basketball rep.

Cole Taira to UC Merced

Joe Davidson: "UC Merced landed 2 excellent area guards in Andrew Williams of Sacramento HS & Cole Taira of Kennedy. High skill level, high character..."

Here's a feature on Taira from August.

Plus, from the 2015 Nor Cal Summer Tipoff:
"5’10” PG Cole Taira of Kennedy HS 2016 (E-Time Hoops)
-Tough, high IQ point guard, good handle in the open court, good driver in ½ court, really good passer, good shooter from 3, really competes!!!!"

Draft Express on Marquese Chriss

Jonathan Givony & Mike Schmitz of Draft Express break down Marquese Chriss' skills set--strengths and weaknesses.

Carlos Johnson remains a Runnin' Rebel

Mark Anderson answering the question of Carlos Johnson's UNLV status: "...As for recruits who have committed, Findlay Prep’s Carlos Johnson has said he will stick with the Rebels no matter who is the coach, and indications on his Twitter account are he won’t waver..."

Sac State offers a Southlander

Omar Okoli: "2016 Notre Dame (CA) G/F 2016 Notre Dame (CA) G/F Chibueze Jacobs has received an offer from Sac State"

A 6-foot-5, 180 senior at Notre Dame High in southern California (Sherman Oaks), Jacobs recently visited Hornet-ville. He averaged 19.3 point plus 9.2 rebounds this season and was named Division 4AA Co-Player of the Year.

He also has offers from Delaware and Loyola Marymount.

Gaskin with four official suitors

"Four offers for 2018 NorCal CG Naseem Gaskin" -- Josh Gershon

Two honored for academics at UC Merced

"The University of California, Merced athletics department brought in three more awards after it was officially announced that men's basketball players Ben Nguyen and Reggie Nelson...

...In order to be nominated, a student-athlete must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and must have achieved a junior academic status."


Nguyen is a 5-foot-11 senior out of Pleasant Grove High.


Nelson is a 6-foot senior out of College of the Sequoias.

Want to get into scouting?

"How to Start Scouting Basketball" -- James Kerti

Wednesday, March 30, 2016

Brogan stepping down

"Brogan ends 15-year run as Modesto JC men’s basketball coach" -- Ron Agostini/Modesto Bee

A straightshooter (no pun intended), he will definitely be missed.

Meet JAMON OSBY

There are those who come to coaching basketball because of a lifelong dream of doing so. Some enter the profession due to a remaining hunger for involvement after their playing days are over. Others never saw themselves entering the coaching field but circumstances provided them a taste of doing just that and now a full-on addiction reigns.

Here's the story of Jamon Osby, currently a varsity assistant at Bellarmine College Prep (BCP), his high school alma mater. He also coaches the top squad for Top Flight Elite Basketball (TFE), a spring and summer AAU travel team.

Osby graduated from Morehouse College in 2008 having earned a B.A. in Business Administration with a concentration in finance and a minor in economics. He returned to San Jose but wasn't necessarily looking to head a basketball program.

"Growing up, I had no intention of ever coaching basketball. I loved playing it in middle school and high school but that was it," Osby recalled. "In seventh grade, I started playing organized basketball. Coach Will, who was my first basketball coach, brought so much passion and love to the game, he made it fun. He was the reason why I have the passion for the game still today."

Then it was on to BCP. Osby graduated in 2004 after being a two-time All West Catholic Athletic League honoree as well as a member of back-to-back CCS D1 championship teams.

College loomed

"I knew in college that basketball wasn't my end. I wanted to go to a school first and not just for basketball." He selected Morehouse College in Atlanta.

"I didn’t have any desire to play at Morehouse. However we did have a successful intramural traveling team that I decided to play for. The intramural program had a select team that traveled to national tournaments. It was great experience and we reached the national intramural championships which were being held in North Carolina."

Post Morehouse

"I was 22 and back here for about a year. I had a friend coaching girls basketball at Mt. Pleasant and there was a coaching opening on the boys side that he told me to interview for. I thought about it for a few days and finally said 'why not?' I understood and loved the game so I jumped right in but I had no idea what challenges were ahead. I had to do a lot of research and fine-tuning to figure out what my coaching philosophy would be."

However, a lack of administrative support made the job difficult. Osby stayed at Mt.  Pleasant for three years before departing.

Coincidence or cosmic pixie dust?

Away from coaching, Osby was working at Bellarmine. He was approached by Patrick Schneider, the Bells boys varsity basketball coach, later in the very same week that he left Mt. Pleasant. "He told me that an assistant job was open [at Bellarmine] and wanted to know if I was interested. I said yes."

That was five years ago.  He has been a varsity assistant for four years and JV head coach for one.

Osby's other coaching venture began during the same time as him starting coaching at BCP. "Chris McSwain, the founder and president of Top Flight Elite asked me about coaching his seventh grade team and I said sure."

"Where we were then compared to where we are now is amazing," Osby added. "We have top level coaches at every grade level now as well as multiple teams at each age level."

Unlike other schools and programs, Osby sees very few transfers and defections both at Bellarmine and with Top Flight Elite. "Kids come to Bellarmine primarily for the education. They stay because of the school. With TFE, the guys on the team have known each other since sixth or seventh grade and they are great friends with one another. They're traveling and playing basketball with their best buddies. We have the interests of the players at heart and have a great time on road trips. The guys are extremely talented and we know that we are one of the best teams in Nor Cal."

He also noted, "I am fortunate to have a great assistant coach in Alex Sarrett and administrative support with TFE."

So where does Osby see himself down the road?

"I would be interested in a high school head coaching job if the right situation came along. However, right now, I am enjoying my time with AAU and helping the guys on the team get to their dream of playing at the next level. It is all about enjoying the moment."

KSmith commits

Keith Smith: "Finally committed to play ball at Virginia Military Institute in the Southern Conference"

The 6-foot-1 guard wins a state championship at San Ramon Valley High last year and now signs for a D1 college scholarship after playing this season at Montverde Academy in Florida.

Joey Frenchwood to Lamar

"LU men's basketball picks up point guard commit Frenchwood" -- Danny Shapiro/Beaumont Enterprise

Lamar University is in the Southland Conference.

Clark now available

PGH Sports Now: "Guard Crisshawn Clark has decided to reopen his recruitment.  Will receive his release forms from Pitt tomorrow."

A big and athletic guard with three years to play -- his cell phone will be getting quite the workout. From Ohio, does he want to return to the same general area or can a West Coast team induce him to stay here?

Clark sat out this season but averaged 15.0 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.0 assists as a freshman at Cañada College.

Another honor for Special K

"Daily Journal Boys' Basketball Player of the Year: Serra's Jake Killingsworth" -- Terry Bernal/San Mateo Daily Journal

Excellent profile here.

A Jaguar basketball recruiting update

SJCC Men's Basketball: "SJCC Update! Douglas currently on a visit to Providence and Brown receiving strong interest from Southern University"

That's 6-foot-10 Akil Douglas and 6-foot-4 Lucious Brown.

Mr. Smith goes to San Francisco?

Dons Central on Denis O'Donnell's tweet about Kyle Smith coming to USF.

Agnese to Kenyon

North Bay Basketball Academy: "Congratulations to NBBA alum, Sepehr Agnese, on committing to Kenyon College (DIII) in Ohio to further his basketball career."

He's a 6-foot point out of Marin Catholic High.

Tyler Green/Enterprise High

"Enterprise’s Green leads all-section boys hoops squad as MVP" -- T.J. Holmes/Redding Record Searchlight

GW 65, San Diego St. 46

To say that San Diego State was 'off' offensively would be an understatement--29% overall shooting and 3-22 from long distance--as the Aztecs fell 65-46 to George Washington in an NIT semifinal matchup in New York City on Tuesday.

Dakarai Allen, aided by going 6-6 at the foul line, led Coach Steve Fisher's guys with 13 points. In 28 minutes, Malik Pope scored two points and grabbed five boards.

Not to jump to any conclusions but, based on his play over the season, Pope should be back for another season.

Now George Washington and Valparaiso will play for the NIT championship on Thursday.

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Columbia 73, UC Irvine 67

Columbia won the CIT championship on Tuesday by defeating UC Irvine 73-67 in New York City despite Anteater senior Mike Best going for 17 points, five boards and three blocked shots.

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The phone lines now between Morningside Heights and The Hilltop should be at capacity usage.

Supply your own context

Jerry Meyer: "One thing NCAA basketball has taught me is that cheating and being an asshole pays off in the long run."

A Team Rampage update

"A year ago, there was a new AAU Basketball club out of Vallejo, CA called Team Rampage. Its first team ever would be a 17 and under team, which would feature local players from the Vallejo area. A year later, Team Rampage has produced three teams ranked in the top ten in the bay area, the 14 and under, 11 and under, and the 8 and under teams. With the success of the younger teams, Team Rampage has become a well known organization in Northern California. This leads to everybody wondering, what will this year's varsity team look like?

After holding tryouts last Saturday, it is safe to say that the word has gotten out about this program. Coach Bracy has recruited players from American Canyon, Modesto, Berkeley, Benicia, Martinez, and Concord, to shape up this year's roster. There are only two returnees on this year's 17 and under roster, the rest are all new faces. Coach Bracy is very excited about this year's group, and hopes that his team can make some noise this spring and summer. However, his road will not be easy as the varsity team, has a tough schedule that includes, the Oakland Rebels Golden State Showdown, Gerry Frietas's Nor-Cal Showcase, the Sacramento Yellow Jackets Capital City Classic, Las Vegas Big Foot Hoops, and Play Hard Play Smart's tournament taking place this Sunday. Bracy believes his roster can handle the heat of the schedule, but only time will tell.

- Brandon Bracy
Head Coach/Trainer of Team Rampage"

Golden State Showdown April 15-17

Golden State Showdown
NCAA Certified Event
April 15th- 17th 2016
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: April 5, 2016
Boys 15u/ 9th, 16u/ 10th & 17u/Varsity  Division I,II, III
(unsigned seniors in High School eligible to play, however player cannot turn 20 before 9/1/2016)
Entry Fee $500 per team
Location: Jamtown 31-4th st Oakland, Ca 94607 & surrounding cities 

Hotel Information:
Homewood Suites (Host Hotel)
1103 Embarcadero Oakland, Ca 94579
Starting Rate: $159/$165 (include Breakfast, Parking, Wireless Internet)
Interested teams please contact the hotel directly (510)663-2700 **Ask for the Oakland Rebels Rate

Executive Inn & Suites, Embarcadero Cove
1755 Embarcadero Oakland, Ca 94606
Starting Rate: $145 Queen/ Queen OR King (include Breakfast, Parking, Wireless Internet, Overnight Laundry available)
Interested teams please use rebels rate link below

Marriott Oakland City Center
1001 Broadway Oakland, Ca 94607
Starting Rates: $145 (includes Breakfast, Parking and Wireless Internet)
Interested teams please use rebel rate link below


Format/Awards:
Pool Play/ Bracket Play
Teams MUST be ready to play on Friday evening April 15th
Team Trophy to 1st & 2nd place teams in the Gold Division
T-shirts for players and coaches 1st & 2nd place in Gold and Silver division only

Tournament Rules:
AAU Boys Basketball Rules
16min halves, Stop clock
Bring Birth Certificate copies & AAU Cards

Please note the NCAA Requirements for this event:
All coaches of 15U-17U boys' teams must have current NCAA coaching approval numbers and enter their team roster online with the NCAA. A new link for the NCAA Coach Approval site will be posted by February 1, 2016. Click here to enter your team's roster on the NCAA BBCS site. Please be aware of the NCAA's Adjoining State Rules which also covers residency requirements.
To apply for the Approval Number, visit the Verified Volunteers website. For US applicants, please review the Domestic Background Check Instructions or watch the background check instructional video before you apply. For international applicants, please review the International Background Check Instructions. If you have questions about your background check or the background check process, please contact Verified Volunteers via email atNCAASupport@verifiedvolunteers.com or via phone at 855-326-1860 - Client Code: 6024. The standard fee for US applicants is $50. There are additional pass-through fees based on which state and county you live in. If you apply for approval during a month in which NCAA-certified events take place, there is an additional $50 fee. So get verified EARLY!!!
All team coaches must also complete a free Coach Education Course. Please read the instructions for completing this requirement. This is a one-time requirement. If you took this course in 2015 and received a certificate, you do not need to repeat the course in 2016.

Eli Holman basketball camp


SAVE THE DATE

Totally Led Ministires 501c3 Presents:

Eli Holman's First Annual Basketball Camp

When: June 16-18 2016
Where: Conta Costa College
Ages: 10-15 boys and girls
Cost: FREE (150 campers) 
* Online registration will be required closer to camp

For more info: contact: khsbasketball32@gmail.com

The VOL honorees

ALL-VALLEY OAK LEAGUE BOYS BASKETBALL

Coach of the Year: Chris Teevan, Weston Ranch

MVP: D’Angelo Finley, Weston Ranch

First team: Jared Rice, Central Catholic; Junior Ballard, Lathrop; Jess Spivey, Sierra; Anand Hundal, Manteca; Kenny Wooten, Manteca; Jaelen Ragsdale, Weston Ranch.

Second team: Cooper Wilson, Central Catholic; Josh Hamilton, Central Catholic; Daniel Wyatt, Sierra; Gyse Hulsebosch, East Union; Dwight Young, Manteca; Fred Lavender, Weston Ranch; V.J. Obiajulu, Kimball.

Honorable mention: Rubin Mann, Kimball; Tydus Verhoeven, Manteca; Peter Hamilton, Central Catholic; Josh Dilg, Weston Ranch.

All-defensive team: Spivey, Sierra; Malcolm Clayton, Central Catholic; Anthony Booker, Weston Ranch; Wooten, Manteca; Obiajulu, Kimball.

Basketball honorees up Yuba way

"ALL-AREA BOYS BASKETBALL: Moreno followed in the footsteps of other greats" -- Jimmy Graben/Appeal-Democrat

"ALL-AREA BOYS BASKETBALL: First-team players excelled in all facets" -- Jimmy Graben/Appeal-Democrat

Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Williams headed to UC Merced

6-foot-1 Sacramento High guard Andrew Williams will be a Bobcat next season playing for Coach Kevin Pham. Link

He scored 11.7 points and grabbed 3.4 rebounds a game this season.

Sendek in, Smith next?

Jeff Goodman: "Three guys I am told are in driver's seat for jobs: Herb Sendek (Santa Clara), Kyle Smith (San Fran) and Steve Henson (UTSA)."

Then what's the delay over on El Camino Real? Sendek is unencumbered and the chance for a decent recruiting class is withering away.

+++++++

Just saw that Sendek is now officially with the Broncos.

Columbia (and Smith) face UC Irvine on Tuesday for the CIT championship.

Solid feature on Chriss

"Former Pleasant Grove star Marquese Chriss making big leap to NBA" -- Joe Davidson/Sacramento Bee

Just think, not very long ago Chriss was attending Pleasant Grove High as were 2,500 other students. Now, he'll soon be a millionaire.

McKines now hoopin' in Venezuela

"Wendell McKines (198 cm, New Mexico State’12) will continue his professional career this 2016 as a member of the Cocodrilo de Caracas (Venezuela-LPB). He has already made his debut for Cocodrilos and McKines scored 11 points and pulled down nine rebounds. He began the 2015-16 season playing for Estudiantes Concordia (Argentina-Liga A). Wendell played eight games for them and averaged 19.3 ppg and 8.5 rpg. In October 2015 McKines flew to Asia after signing with Dongbu Promy from the South Korean KBL. He managed to play a total of 42 games for his former team and recorded averages of 20.4 ppg and 8.6 rpg."

UC Santa Barbara 70, NIU 63

UC Santa Barbara downed Northern Illinois University 70-63 in Las Vegas on Monday as sophomore guard Gabe Vincent led with 20 points. It was an opening round game in the new Vegas 16 tournament.

Gaucho Coach Bob Williams' guys go up against Old Dominion on Tuesday.

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Morehead St. 86, Nevada 83

Back in Kentucky, Morehead State edged Nevada 86-83 on Monday in the opening game of the CBI Championship series. Cam Oliver played just 22 minutes due to foul trouble but posted a respectable line of 12 points, eight boards and three blocked shots.

Game two is scheduled for Wednesday in Reno. If the Wolf Pack can take down Morehead in that one, game three will be Friday also in The Biggest Little City in the World.

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Carlos Johnson

With the new coach at UNLV, is Carlos Johnson sticking with the Rebels and vice versa? It would make sense for both parties as Chris Beard needs a handful of solid four-year guys and Johnson fits that bill.

Looking back at the Serra program

"Little Chuck's lads get it done" -- John Murphy/Prep2Prep

Devine goes long on Palma's successful season

"John Devine, Just a Thought: Palma basketball’s season in review"

Not news but a very good feature on Sasha French heading to The Hilltop

"Justin-Siena graduate French to walk-on at USF" -- Marty James/Napa Valley Register

D'Angelo Finley honored

"ALL-AROUND TALENT Finley’s versatility key for VOL champ Weston Ranch" -- Jonomar Jacinto/Manteca Bulletin

2016 Chico Springtime Showcase


AAU Girls & Boys

2016 AAU Chico Springtime Showcase
11th Annual Basketball Invitational



Registration Deadline!! March 31,2016

AAU AGE GROUPS: 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th JV & Varsity

Register online at showtimehoops.com

All AAU Team Schedule Requests Email: Brackets@showtimehoops.com

(Northern California) (Officials Association Referees)

AAU Girls & Boys Divisions 1 Division 2 Division 3
Register Now!!! @showtimehoops.com

April 9th & 10th 2016

2016 AAU Chico springtime Showcase Games Schedule:
Saturday, April 9th 8am-8:50pm Sunday, April 10th 8am-5:45pm

AAU Chico Springtime Showcase Tournament Directors:
MikeWalker 530.591.5245 mike@showtimehoops.com
Veletta Johnson Coachvee@showtimehoops.com


April 9th & 10th 2016
AAU Chico springtime Showcase Games Schedule:
Saturday, April 9th 8am-8:50pm Sunday, April 10th 8am-5:45pm

2015 119 AAU Girls & Boys Teams Participated

Date: April 9th-10th 2016

All AAU Team Schedule Request Email: Brackets@showtimehoops.com

AAU Girls & Boys

AAU AGE GROUPS: 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th JV & Varsity

AAU Divisions ENTRY FEE:

$325.00 1 Team $300.00 2 Teams $275.00 3 or more

AAU TEAM ROSTERS ENTRY DEADLINE: March 31st 2016

AWARDS:

1st & 2nd Place Trophies 3rd place medals

FORMAT: 3 Game minimum. Pool Play

Contact Mike Walker 530-591-5245
Email mike@Showtimehoops.com

11th Annual AAU Chico Springtime Showcase presented by
Nor Cal Warriors-Showtime Basketball Academy
Chico Visitors Bureau on April 9th & 10th 2016.

The event will be hosted by 15 Basketball sites in the Chico Area

On Friday April 8th at 5pm Coaches Check in at the Holiday Inn hotel.

AAU Games Schedule 8am-9pm Saturday, April 9th Sunday, April 10th, 8am-5pm

AAU Chico springtime Showcases Northern California elite athletes

Tournament will showcase competitive Girls & Boys Basketball.

AAU Chico Springtime Showcase provides Northern California college coaches
a tremendous opportunity to scout the up-and-coming basketball Players.

AAU Tournament Registration

Deadline is March 31, 2016

Chico Hotels: (Please Book Early All Hotels will be Sold Out In Chico)

***AAU Chico Springtime Showcase Group Rate Hotels***

Motel 6 Hotel 800-544-4866 Rate $59.00

Heritage Inn Express 530-343-4527 Rate $65.00

Super 8 Hotel 530-345-2533 Rate $79.00

University Inn Hotel 530-895-1323 Rate $79.00

Americas Best Value Inn 530-343-3286 Rate $84.99

Best Western Inn 800-446-4291 Rate 89.99

Marriott Courtyard 530-894-6699 Rate 114.00

Residence Inn 530-894-5500 Rate 124.00

Holiday Inn Hotel 530-345-2491 Rate 129.00 Includes breakfast

Oxford Suites 530-899-9090 Rate 129.00 (king Suites)

All AAU travel teams must Check in prior to start of first game for mandatory team roster registration sessions

begin at April 8th at 5pm-9pm, Holiday Inn

Saturday April 9th at 8am-1pm

All AAU teams should make departing plans Sunday April 12th, after 6pm.

******No Refunds******

******For missing games due to team check in registration.******

AAU Presentation & Coaches Certification Check-In

Friday, April 8, 2016 5pm-9pm Holiday Inn

Saturday session: April 9, 2016 8am-1pm

AAU Coaches will receive official coaching badges

AAU Official Brackets and Tournament info tournament Program

AAU Coaches will receive 2 bands per team entered

AAU Chico Springtime Showcase (Two coaches entry bands per team)

AAU Coaches/Team Administrators Registration Location:

5pm-9pm Holiday Inn Chico CA

685 Manzanita Court Chico, CA 95926

Saturday Team Registration Location:

April 9, 2016 8am-1pm Holiday Inn Chico CA

685 Manzanita Court Chico, CA 95926

AAU Chico Springtime Showcase Tournament Directors:
MikeWalker 530.591.5245 mike@showtimehoops.com
Veletta Johnson Coachvee@showtimehoops.com

Monday, March 28, 2016

UC Irvine 66, Coastal Carolina 47

UC Irvine is headed to the CIT championship game on Tuesday versus Columbia after defeating host Coastal Carolina on Sunday 66-47. Senior Mike (Terra Linda High) Best totaled eight points plus seven boards

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Geraci honored

"IJ boys basketball player of year: San Marin’s Calvin Geraci"

What's the holdup at USF?

Why doesn't USF have a basketball coach? Combining the thoughts of the best and brightest (a club whose membership I have failed to make the cut for several decades and counting now), Steve Lavin either didn't want the job or couldn't get the salary he wanted. But such was apparent a while ago.

Mr. Hoop Dirt wrote this: "Last week, I talked about Columbia head coach Kyle Smith and his name being linked to the Portland job. I have now heard his name being mentioned surrounding the search at San Francisco as well. Obviously both make sense – he was an assistant in the WCC at St. Mary’s, and has had a lot of success at Columbia (his 23-10 Lions face NJIT today in the CIT semifinals). I would assume we’ll hear more after Columbia’s season ends."

Mere coincidental timing, or not? Columbia will play UC Irvine on Tuesday in the CIT championship game.

Let's hope the powers-that-be on The Hilltop aren't waiting for a Dons version of Mr. Godot.

By the way, here's a vote for Smith at whichever job, if any, he desires. He gets what it takes to be a successful coach and possesses those qualities. Housing prices in Portland are a lot more affordable but USF seemingly should be a more attractive location to recruit to.

With Bob Dylan in the background, singing "you ain't goin' nowhere"

Mark Anderson: "According to source, Bennett at Saint Mary's turned down a $1.5 million offer to coach."

Then: Mark Anderson: "FYI: Have had three people close to #UNLVmbb search refute there was a $1.5 million offer to Saint Mary's."

Jeff Goodman: "Bennett: Declined the interview. Loves the program and the team he has coming back the next couple years."

Should the next individual who proposes Randy Bennett come coach at school X or who writes that Bennett is a candidate for job Y be sentenced to bustin' rocks with a fork for the next 20 years, with no 'net access?

Bill Walton is different and we should all be thankful for that

"Bill Walton’s Long, Strange Tale of N.B.A. Survival" -- Sam Anderson/New York Times Magazine

Sunday, March 27, 2016

It's the off season as it were

With the community college and high school basketball seasons now closed and the four-year college one almost there, we're heading into off-season mode. Rather than post on a hard and fast couple of days a week schedule, we'll do so as material appears on the 'net. There certainly are plenty of player signings as well as departures still to come plus coaches to be hired and those will be covered. A lesser publishing schedule will also allow for more coach and player features to be written and posted.

Chino Hills 70, De La Salle 50

De La Salle was definitely ready in its battle with Chino Hills, taking it to the Southlanders inside but The Ball Brothers and crew kept creeping closer and then used a quick third quarter run in defeating the Spartans 70-50 last night in Sacramento.

DLS led 19-9 in the first quarter when both dribble-drives and penetration kickouts produced scores. The Concord bunch led 30-28 at the half.

Then the combination of a Spartan scoring drought and a Chino points run put the #1 team in the country ahead 45-37 after three and that was that.

Emeka Udenyi was both fearless and physical for De La Salle. He totaled 11 points as Jordan Ratinho led with 16 points.

"De La Salle falls to undefeated Chino Hills in state title game" -- Phil Jensen/BANG

BANG game photos

"Perfection: Chino Hills finishes magical season with state title" -- Michelle Gardner/Inland Valley Daily Bulletin

Serra 48, Long Beach Poly 43 /// Serra wins D-II state championship

Yes, the location of a bevy of the Poly shot attempts played into this number but do give tremendous credit to the defensive discipline of the Serra Padres in sending Long Beach to the foul line for just three attempts as the north turned away the south in Sacramento on Saturday 48-43. The "defend or die" anthem on the Serra shirts was definitely a statement, not a question, as the D-II state championship will reside in San Mateo for the next year.

It was another Jake Killingsworth night--15 points plus 16 rebounds--as the game was tied at halftime 19 apiece. With the score knotted at 21 in the third quarter, Special K hit a foul line jumper, then a dribble-drive jumper in the key and finally scored on a putback to put Serra ahead 27-21. The Padres led 32-26 after three quarters and never looked back.

"Serra beats Long Beach Poly to win state Division II championship" -- Glenn Reeves/BANG

BANG video recap

"Serra clamps down on Poly to win first state title" -- Ryan Silipan/Prep2Prep

Harvard-Westlake 66, Palma 49 /// The Chieftains get Wolfgang-ed

Harvard-Westlake led 35-18 at the half and continued on in defeating Palma High 66-49 Saturday in Sacramento to win the D-IV state championship. It wasn't Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart doing the damage but instead Wolfgang Novogratz by  way of New York City, not Vienna. He scored a game high 26 points.

Palma had but one shot creator in Jamaree Bouyea and the few open shots the Chieftains enjoyed in the initial 16 minutes were errant. H-W played very aggressively and kept the crew from Salinas from establishing any rhythm by inducing numerous turnovers.

Wyatt Maker led Palma with both 17 points plus nine rebounds and Jamaree Bouyea scored 11.

Bouyea returns next season plus Garrett Maker should be back and ready after his injury so that bodes well for Palma's program.

"D4 State Championship: Harvard-Westlake guard unstoppable as Palma falls 66-49" -- Mark Billingsley/Monterey Herald

"Harvard-Westlake downs Palma in state basketball finals" -- Glenn Cravens/Salinas Californian

Game photos

"Harvard-Westlake flies high with 66-49 victory over Salinas Palma in Division IV state title game" -- Eric Sondheimer/Los Angeles Times

The Valley Oak League honorees

"All-VOL basketball teams unveiled" -- Thomas Lawrence/Stockton Record

The Marin County Athletic League honorees

MCAL

MVP: Calvin Geraci, San Marin

First team: Joey Calcaterra, Marin Catholic; Henry Feinberg, Branson; Skylar Chavez, Drake; Michael Sullivan, Redwood; Brandon Vergara, Drake

Second team: Garrett Mosher, San Rafael; James Finn, Tam; Connor Jackett, Branson; Tommy Sanz, San Marin; Jordan Jackson, Redwood

Honorable mention: Dominic Martinez, Terra Linda; David Gamble, Justin-Siena; Dempsey Roggenbuck, Marin Catholic; Jack Duboff, Tam; Hunter Wegner, Novato; RJ Cutkelvin, Tam

The vote was unanimous

"All-SCCAL Boys Basketball: Santa Cruz’s Yee-Stephens earns MVP a second time" -- Andrew Matheson/Santa Cruz Sentinel

Saturday, March 26, 2016

Saturday's television schedule

Saturday, March 26

CSN California
10:00 a.m.         Division IV Girls – Antelope Valley vs. Cardinal Newman

CSN Bay Area
12:00 p.m.         Division IV Boys – Harvard-Westlake vs. Palma

CSN Bay Area
2:00 p.m.          Division II Girls – Cajon vs. Elk Grove

CSN Bay Area
4:00 p.m.          Division II Boys – Long Beach Poly vs. Junipero Serra

CSN California
6:00 p.m.          Open Division Girls – Chaminade vs. Miramonte

CSN California
8:00 p.m.          Open Division Boys – Chino Hills vs. De La Salle

Can DLS pull it off?

"No. 1 Chino Hills and final Ball brothers show takes on De La Salle" -- Mitch Stephens/Max Preps"

"De La Salle faces Chino Hills' impressive Ball brothers" -- Phil Jenbsen/BANG

Serra versus LB Poly on Saturday

"Serra on brink of first state title" -- Glenn Reeves/BANG

Junipero Serra entered sainthood last year--Coach Rapp might follow if the Padres down Long Beach Poly.

Synchronicity

"That’s Manteca: Quirky season, mismatched parts lead to CIF state title" -- James Burns/Modesto Bee

Saco isn't gone or forgotten

"Pete Saco still has key role at CIF championships" -- Joe Davidson/Sacramento Bee

Jim Cramer has booyah, Palma prefers Bouyea

"Bouyea looks to lead Palma to first state title since 1992" -- Ryan Silapan/Prep2Prep Sports

Jamaree Bouyea remains on of the most underrated prospects in Nor Cal. Saturday will help change that status.

Jamaree Bouyea is the Herald’s All-County Basketball Player of the Year

"Herald Boys Basketball Player of the Year: Palma’s Jamaree Bouyea leads with quiet confidence"

The Monterey Herald's 2015-16 All-County honorees

"Herald All-County Boys Basketball team"

Murray on Cam Oliver

Reno Gazette-Journal Nevada beat reporter Chris Murray: "AT THIS POINT, OLIVER HAS TO test the NBA waters, right? What’s the downside? Given the new NCAA rules, players can enter their name in the draft unlimited times over the course of their career. They can attend the NBA Combine and participate in one private workout for each of the 30 NBA teams. If invited to the NBA Combine, they can work 12 hours per week with their college coaches. And if they want to, they can pull their name from the draft after the combine (by May 25) and keep their college eligibility. It’s a win-win for players. I’m not saying Oliver is ready for the NBA (not many Pack games were scouted this year). He needs at least one more years of seasoning. But NBA teams will love his athleticism, strength, shooting ability and rim-protection skills. Worst-case scenario for putting you name out there is you get good feedback and at least put yourself on the NBA radar so scouts check you out next year."

One Chriss evaluation

NBA executive on Marquese Chriss: “I hate to use the word potential, but he’s got a lot of potential. He’s still filling out physically, but he’s got good hands. Really explosive. Really good length. His jump shot is improving, but he still mainly relies on playing above the rim. But that’s the great part about him. People love his athleticism. You can get fooled by it a little bit when a guy dunks and he has that length, you’re almost like alright put some muscle on him and put some pounds on him and this guy could be tremendous. But I think defensively that’s where his length, his awareness and his timing – he has a lot of intangibles as well as the physical tools that can only get better – that makes him an interesting player just because he can alter shots and block shots. He can rebound. So he’s got a high ceiling. One could make point that his ball handling could improve and that could make him more of a threat on the perimeter if he moved out there or give him the ability to be the stretch four. And he’s got to improve his ability to be a slasher. Work on his body and all of that stuff. He’s got to get more physical. In looking at him, I saw some Hakim Warrick. I can see that. People are making him out to be much more than down the road, but I think realistically we’ll see what happens. He’s another one who has a high ceiling because he hasn’t played the game that long, but there’s a lot to like. But do you want to draft on potential or what does he got now.”

Can the Warriors claim copyright?

"The Warriors Convinced Big Schools That Small Ball Works" -- Matt Giles/Five Thirty Eight

Advice for Haase

Jeff Eisenberg: "If I were Jerod Haase, two of my first phone calls at Stanford would be to Eric Reveno and Kerry Keating."

Neither got it done with recruiting which is why they were let go but selling Stanford is a whole different universe. But is either willing to hit the road after head coaching for so long?

Plus: "Jerod Haase's task: Make Stanford basketball matter again"

From Lake Tahoe to The Farm

"Stanford hires Jerod Haase as new men's basketball coach" -- Jon Wilner/BANG

Some large concerns in Berkeley

"Five offseason questions facing Cal men’s basketball" -- Connor Letourneau/San Francisco Chronicle

As the world turns...

"Mick Cronin 'lied,' told Nevada-Las Vegas he wanted to be next coach, UNLV athletic director says"

Geoff Grammer: "UNLV AD: "He left saying he would be our head coach." ... In good faith, TKM thought he was going to Cincy to tell his bosses & team." 

Matt Youmans: "UNLV is 0 for 2. Turned down by Dixon before a foolish courtship of Cronin. Two-plus months to get here? Continue the circus"

Dave Hall: "I'm assessing double technicals to Mick Cronin and Tina Kunzer Murphy."

Cronin told The Enquirer on Friday that Kunzer-Murphy's statement was not true. UC announced earlier Friday that Cronin was staying on as coach.


"I never officially accepted," Cronin said. "I looked at it. I didn't take it."

"Menzies would be the safe, not spectacular hire for UNLV"

Chris Murray: "f the remaining UNLV candidates (Menzies, Lavin, Bennett, Beard, Augmon), the correct answer is Bennett. (As long as buyout isn't crazy)."

Catching up on Daniel Solis

5-foot-10 Daniel (Concord High) Solis was a sophomore at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo this season--so how did he fare? Try 5.2 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 32 games (six starts, 18 minutes a contest). He shot 44%, 47% and 84% respectively.

Friday, March 25, 2016

St. Joseph Notre Dame 55, St. Bernard 50 /// SJND wins D-V state championship

No man is an island but St. Joseph Notre Dame Coach Don Lippi could probably run for mayor of Alameda and easily be elected considering his squad took down southern California opponent St. Bernard, 55-50 in Sacramento yesterday to win the the D-V state championship.

Junior Jade' Smith and 5-foot-5 freshman Kobe Keiner would be his top aides. Smith provided 21 points plus 11 rebounds. Keiner substituted in for an injured Smith with 11 seconds left and sank two game-clinching free throws, his only scoring on the day. The first foul shot hit the front rim and climbed over and in. The second was nothing but net. Darne Duckett was second in scoring with 14 points.

Phil Jensen/BANG game reports.

Frank Burlison game reports.

Eric Sondheimer/Los Angeles Times game reports.

42 game photos courtesy of the South Bay Daily Breeze

Looking at their roster, it's certainly possible for SJND to win this again next season. The 2015-16 championship makes it the second in three seasons and the third in six for the Pilots.

How did Smith look? Very long and with seemingly a couple more inches to go considering he has one more prep season to play. He was the sole shot creator on the team. On some attempts, Smith looked ready for college right now but there were also some airballs as well as shots that were forced.

Manteca 60, Ayala 51 ///Manteca wins D-III state championship

Ayala High got Wooten-ized yesterday as Manteca High's 6-foot-9 senior Kenny Wooten produced a 26 point, 18 rebound, nine blocked shot line in leading his team to a 60-51 success against the Bulldogs to grab the D-III state championship.

The Buffaloes dominated Ayala in the first half, making them look ordinary but a third period comeback that grew into the fourth made the game much closer, 41-38 at one point. Wooten was backgrounded in that quarter by his teammates who needed to memorize the mantra 'good things happen when Wooten touches the ball.'

James Burns/Modesto Bee game reports -- 27 game photos are included.

Thomas Lawrence writes of the team sendoff.

It's great to see a community getting behind one of its high school teams. Manteca is small enough for such a sense of territorial pride to happen.

Crespi 68, Berkeley 53

The score was 34-23 in favor Crespi at the half and 49-43 at the conclusion of the third quarter but Berkeley just didn't have an answer for 6-foot-4 De'Anthony Melton (heading to USC) and fell 68-53 last night in Sacramento.

The Yellowjackets actually took a one point lead with four minutes remaining in the third quarter but couldn't maintain.

Senior guard Niles Malone led with 18 points while teammate Sean Spikes totaled 14 points plus eight boards.

Phil Jensen/BANG game reports.

Coverage of last night's boys games

Doug Benton/Nor Cal Preps covers the Manteca, St. Joseph Notre Dame and Berkeley High games from last night.

Palma versus Harvard-Westlake on Saturday

"Palma basketball to face tough Wolverines squad" -- Glenn Cravens/Salinas Californian

The Pete Saco Lifetime Achievement Award

"Ron Pucci to be honored by Sacramento Kings Sunday" -- Mike Ray/Auburn Journal

Tigers getting a visit

Dinos Trigonis: "Former Mater Dei PG 6-2 2016 KJ Smith (IMG/FL) will visit Pacific & new head coach Damon Stoudamire. Date being finalized now."

Further information plus video.

He's Kenny Smith's son.

Stockton was bringing in a good guard

Former Pacific commit, prep guard Malachi Flynn, has given a verbal to Washington State. He's from the Evergreen State.

Austin will be big in Boise next season

From a recap of Boise State basketball: "...Austin, who will be a sophomore in the fall, logged 12.3 minutes a night in a limited role behind floor leader Mikey Thompson. However, the Oakland native has the physical tools to become an all-conference player. Speed and athleticism drives Austin's game, and he has an uncanny ability to finish around the rim after a quick crossover, hesitation or spin move. Expect Austin to start at the point guard position from day one in November..."

Betting on the now or the come

"Cal’s Jaylen Brown will test the value NBA teams place on tools" -- Kyle Newbeck/Upside and Motor

What will Martin's recruiting class look like?

"Cal tries to add recruits in wake of sexual harassment scandal" -- Connor Letoruneau/San Francisco Chronicle

Thursday, March 24, 2016

CalHiSports with game forecasts

Give credit to the CalHiSports staff for proverbially sticking their necks out and making predictions for the state title games. Now there is bulletin board material for Berkeley, Serra, Palma and St. Joseph Notre Dame, if needed.

No call about De La Salle just yet.

The SALESIAN Pride

There is another team in the Bay Area that many would say exceeded outsider expectations this season and that is Bill Mellis' Salesian College Preparatory squad. The Pride finished at a terrific 28-5 and 10-0.

There are a number of reasons why the Pride should not have been so successful. For one, try a roster featuring just three upperclassmen--two seniors and a junior. They were joined by seven sophomores and three freshman.

Plus, membership in the tough Tri-County League Rock Division which usually guarantees some losses along the way since El Cerrito, St. Patrick-St. Vincent and St. Joseph Notre Dame are annually at or near the top finishers.

Yet concluding #1 in league required downing the Gauchos, Bruins and Pilots three times apiece and such was accomplished.

Of the five Salesian losses this season, all came at the hands of another roll call of high quality opposition: Weston Ranch, Capital Christian, Basha (AZ), at Modesto Christian and finally at De La Salle. That final defeat was 51-45 in a matchup that could have gone either way at the end.

During the season, the Pride also posted a 21-game winning streak.

According to Mellis, "I knew we could be good because we have talented players but it's really hard to go undefeated in our league, so our team even exceeded our own expectations. I believe we won so many games because our team chemistry was great and we really shared the ball."

The Pride roster consists of this group of talents:
  • Manny Adeoye, 6-foot-8, freshman
  • James Akinjo, 5-foot-10, sophomore
  • Brandon Betson, 5-foot-10, sophomore
  • Jamario Bibb, 6-foot-4, sophomore
  • Derek E'Denchukwu, 6-foot-5, senior
  • Henry E'Denchukwu, 6-foot-3, sophomore
  • Joshua Jefferson, 6-foot-4, sophomore
  • Derrick Langford, 6-foot-1, sophomore
  • Jaden McClanahan, 5-foot-9, freshman
  • Jovon McClanahan, 5-foot-9 freshman
  • Brandon McGhee, 6-foot-2, senior
  • Jalen Scott, 6-foot-0, sophomore
  • Ke'mare Wright, 6-foot-0, sophomore
Mellis offered, "the kids nowadays are playing year-around so being young isn't a big factor. The biggest issue with us is strength because we're two years of lifting behind when we play against juniors and seniors."

Now talent is certainly a factor in any success but here's another thought: maybe being young can be a positive in the sense that kids don't know they shouldn't be winning just yet.

Chriss declares for the NBA

"Take 2: The real reason Dejounte Murray, Marquese Chriss must stay at Washington" -- Greg Davison. He makes sense but then there's dollars and cents.

Chriss has just declared.

Jeff Goodman: "I’ve been on the Marquese Chriss bandwagon all season. Will likely be a first-rounder. Size, skill and athleticism."

Coach Romar's recruiting net has just opened up much wider. Needs a JC guy or two for next season, or else.

Your move Mr. Oliver

With some of the recent NBA draft entry announcements, how does Nevada's Cameron Oliver not test the waters?

Four with Splash City

The NorCal Report: "@SplashCity_UAA has announced that Damari Milstead, Darrin Person, Jadé Smith, & Joey Calcaterra will be running with them on the circuit."

Lewis now bleeds green

"Learning to think green" -- Thomas Lawrence/Stockton Record

The Manteca - Ayala individual matchups

"Who’s got who? A look at how Manteca High will guard Ayala" -- James Burns/Modesto Bee

State championship winners part of Palma coaching staff

"Palma’s Amaral twins return to state title game, this time as coaches" -- John Devine/Monterey Herald

Nevada 86, Vermont 72

A 47-39 second half powered Nevada to an 86-72 homecourt victory over Vermont to continue the Wolf Pack advancement in the CBI. Freshman Cameron Oliver produced another double-double with 23 points plus 11 boards. He also rejected a trio of Catamount shot attempts. Coach Eric Musselman's guys are now in the semifinals of the CBI. (initially had them them in the CIT)

Box

UC Irvine 67, Louisiana Lafayette 66

Mike Best scored the game-winning basket with 3.6 seconds remaining for UC Irvine last night in the Anteaters' 67-66 victory down in the Bayou State over Louisiana Lafayette. Best finished with six points, six rebounds and three blocked shots while teammate Jonathan Galloway went big for 13 rebounds, eight points plus four blocked shots. Irvine now advances to the semi finals in the CIT tournament.

Box

San Diego St. 72, Georgia Tech 56

Host San Diego State took care of Georgia Tech 72-56 Wednesday to move into the Final 4 of the NIT. Malik Pope shot just 4-14 but still posted a 10 point, 10 rebound double-double for the Aztecs.

Box

A Santa Clara coaching update

Marc J Spears: "Sixers assistant coach Lloyd Pierce interviewed for the open head coach job for his alma mater Santa Clara yesterday in Denver, source said."

Pierce has a player development background and possesses NBA coaching experience which just may get prospects who might not be considering SC to listen. Seemingly would be a step up in salary for him.

Herb Sendek: too expensive?

2016 NIKE Youth Basketball Camp Series

2016 NIKE Youth Basketball Camp Series:
<<< SPRING BREAK >>>
> March 28-30 @ JAMTOWN / 31 4th St / Oakland CA / Boys & Girls / Ages 7-15
GET DETAILS & REGISTER: "CLICK HERE"
PRESENTED BY:

NIKE Youth Camps

These camps will focus on the core fundamentals in the 5 areas of basketball (Defense / Ball Handling / Rebounding / Passing / Shooting).  Regardless of skill level, it is important for all players to refresh on fundamentals of the game.  Kids ages 7-15 (boys & girls) are all welcome.  Along with fundamental skill development; these camps will also consist of games, activities, camp t-shirt, NIKE prizes, awards, certificate of completion & much more.  In addition to the highest level of instruction; campers will get to interact with TOP RANKED high school players (as camp leaders).
CAMPERS ARE REQUIRED TO BRING THEIR OWN LUNCH & HYDRATION EACH DAY.

Assessing the possibilities

"Stanford basketball coaching search: Assessing Muir’s options" -- Jon Wilner/BANG

Draft Express on Marcus Lee

Jonathan Givony/Draft Express: "Givony was blunt when asked about the current NBA Draft stock of UK forward Marcus Lee on Monday, saying there was nothing to talk about after Lee’s disappointing junior season.

DraftExpress.com, which projected him as a second-round pick for most of the season, no longer has him among its Top 100 prospects for the 2016 draft.

Givony said NBA teams want to see Lee develop his body more, pointing out that he gained just 4 pounds between UK’s pro day combines in 2014 and 2015.

“That’s not an indication of a guy who’s working on his body,” he said. “If he’s serious about playing in the NBA, he’s going to have to go in and show it. It doesn’t just come because you were a McDonald’s All-American. You have to actually improve.”

A fascinating tale

"You won't believe how Nike lost Steph to Under Armour" -- Ethan Sherwood Strauss/ESPN

Interesting

"How to tell when it's time for a college basketball team and its coach to part ways" -- Pat Forde/Yahoo Sports

Scouting prospects

"How to set basketball scouting goals" -- James Kerti

Good tips here

"Keys to Finishing at the Basket" -- Kyle Ohman/Basketball HQ

"Berkeley is the feel good story"

Here's a feature on the accomplishments this season of the Berkeley High basketball program.

A bevy of great reads here

"Tales of Madness" -- "There’s probably no stage in sports where the stakes are higher than the NCAA basketball tournament. One shot can decide an entire season. But behind every triumph and heartbreak, there’s a story. With this in mind, The Players’ Tribune presents Tales of Madness, a series of first-person accounts from iconic basketball players throughout history, recalling their most memorable NCAA tournament experiences..."