Thursday, June 30, 2016

That's it until Tuesday

Out for the weekend.

Still unsigned

A number of intriguing prospects still remain unsigned:

* Anand Hundal, Manteca High

* Jordan Roberson, Reno International Prep

* Trevor Dunbar, CCSF

* Eddie Stansberry, Archbishop Riordan

* Larry Wickett, Contra Costa College

* Bobby Syvanthong, Contra Costa College

The Dons offer Tut

JUCOadvocate: "6'9 PF Ran Tut (@Ranimal15) has received an offer from San Francisco after official visit!"

He's 6-foot-9 and 210, attending Monroe College in New York, out of Australia by way of South Sudan and averaged 10.4 points, 5.9 boards and 1.1 blocks as a freshman. He shot 46%, 35% and 67% this season.


Big bucks to come TJohnson's way?

Mike Ryan: "Wow @WojVerticalNBA just said the market for Tyler Johnson is around $10 million a year minimum."

Make way for another sponsored Bay Area travel team if this happens.

Public Schools Vs. Private Schools -- Brandon Bracy


"In Northern California, there are a lot of schools who have maintained success over the years in basketball. High Schools like De La Salle, Salesian, Sheldon, Sacramento High School, and more, are among the top teams in Northern California, and there have even been years where they were one of the top teams in the state. Despite their similarities in being winning programs, there are major differences and rules that apply between some of these top schools.

Perhaps the biggest difference in some of the schools that are ranked in the top 10 in Northern California, is the fact that some schools are private schools, and others are public. This becomes a big difference not only because one school is public and the other isn't, but because as a private school, coaches are allowed to recruit players to their school, while public schools cannot. Public schools have to get whatever student-athlete that lives near the school. These rules makes it easier for private schools to maintain success, by a way of replenishing their talent due to recruiting. 

Public school coaches and parents have complained about the freedom private schools have, and feel that it is an unfair advantage. However, despite the advantage the private schools have with recruiting, for schools like Sacramento High School, or McClymonds High School who are both public schools, have been able to maintain success as well. These two schools have implemented a culture that the young athletes buy into, which has allowed the programs to continue to get talent.

School size and location, also plays a huge role in maintaining success for public schools. For example, Sacramento and McClymonds which is in Oakland, are two big cities which means that there are a lot of athletes around their school zone to choose from. For schools like Richmond High School, or Vallejo High School, maintaining success can be very difficult because of how small those cities are compared to Oakland or Sacramento. Although they may get talent, most gifted athletes from those areas, end up going to private schools.

Orlando Magic power forward Aaron Gordon, and Portland Trailblazers point guard Damian Lillard, both come from the Bay Area, but took different routes to get there. Aaron Gordon who comes from San Jose, California, went to Archbishop High School which is a private school. Gordon played four years of varsity, and helped Mitty win two state championships, before attending the University of Arizona for a year.

Damien Lillard went a different route by going to Oakland High School, which is a public school, for his final two years of high school. Prior to attending Oakland High School, Lillard attended St. Joseph, but transferred due to lack of playing time. After high school, he would earn a scholarship to Weber State, where he would play all four years in college, before getting drafted in the top 10 by the Portland Trailblazers. 

Public School or Private School, there isn't a wrong answer in terms of which option will give the athlete the best chance to be successful. In Northern California, private schools get a lot of heat from public school coaches and parents because of the recruiting. However, the private schools are doing exactly what the rules allow them to do. Public schools must focus on building a culture that kids in the area, want to be a part of. The public schools that have the most success are the ones that have a sense of tradition, and the community behind them that understands that tradition."

Nor-Cal Surging Stars (do bookmark Bracy's site)

Delly receives qualifying offer

"Cavs extend qualifying offer to Matthew Dellavedova, making him a restricted free agent" -- Chris Haynes

When Russell Westbrook draws that double-team...

John Devine: "Max Hooper will play for Oklahoma City in the NBA Summer League."

One more reason to catch the Nor Cal Summer Tip Off

Gerry Freitas: "Mike Bibby Jr-top remaining 2016 pt gd in West is playing for Utah Basketball Club at Nor Cal Summer Tip Off July 9-10 at SF City College"

Wednesday, June 29, 2016

5 Team Rampage Players Moving On To College


For the Team Rampage varsity basketball club, the spring and summer of 2016 has been a season to remember. They have won three tournaments, went 4-1 in two separate tournaments, and have surged to a 22-5 record. Juniors Trey Pugh and Gamon Howard, have been great during this run, but it's the seniors that have been able to provide leadership, and excellent play to lead to the team's success. 

This year's group features five seniors that will be playing college basketball this fall. Jesse Bethel's Malcolm Bracy, and St. Mary's of Berkeley's Johnathon Rice, will be both be attending Diablo Valley College. Jesse Bethel's Dakarria Peterson will be attending Solano Community College, while another Jesse Bethel Alum Deangelo Gomez, will be attending Napa Valley College. Rounding up the Team Rampage senior group is Riverbank's Nik Keydeniers, who will be playing point guard for Las Positas College in Livermore. 

Of the five seniors, Keydeniers and Rice will be the only two that will be active this fall for their teams, as Bracy, Peterson, and Gomez, will all be grey shirting and red shirting. Team Rampage Director Antonio Hodges stated that, "These young men have worked hard all spring and summer, Coach Brandon Bracy has pushed these guys to become better student athletes as they prepare for college." Hodges also gives Coach Bracy credit for the way he pushes his team in practice, which helps them get ready for college.

With Keydeniers and Rice looking to start for their programs, Coach Bracy could be losing these two players. However, for a program in only its second year in existence, he is proud to see his players moving on to the next level.

The professional world meets Jaylen Brown

"Jaylen Brown’s inner circle embraces ‘smart’ label" -- Steve Bulpert

Critiquing Brown's skills set comes with the territory but too smart or intelligent comes very close to codespeak.

Loved this: "The people who say he’s too smart for his own good, have they met him? Have they spent any time with him?” added Thomas. “The kid who puts on a suit and tie and comes to an interview with a notepad, I kind of like that kid.”

Anthony Morrow addresses the undrafted

"An Open Letter to the Undrafted" -- Anthony Morrow

The Curry camp

Like that Damari Milstead is part of the Stephen Curry camp taking place in Walnut Creek. LINK

Maybe it's just a numbers issue, me being provincial or UA wants to advance itself nationally with younger prospects but would like to see Zach Chappell, Elijah Hardy, Logan Johnson, Jadé Smith and James Akinjo also there.

Cal Maritime Men's Basketball To Offer Two Exciting Camps


The Cal Maritime men's basketball program and the Keelhauler Basketball Academy is pleased to announce two exciting basketball camp opportunities in August. 
Session One will take place August 1st-August 5th from 1pm-4pm for boys and girls entering 4th through 8th grades in the Fall.  The camp will be led by Cal Maritime's head men's basketball coach Bryan Rooney and his staff.  Campers will receive extensive individual attention on their skills as well as important team concepts.  Most importantly, campers will have a great deal of fun and all activities will promote a love for the game of basketball. LINK
Session Two will be August 1st-August 4th from 5pm to 8pm for boys entering 9th through 12 grades in the Fall. The structure of the camp will mirror four college practices and will present campers with advance skills and techniques.  During these high intensity sessions, campers will have a great opportunity to learn and experience the demands of a college basketball setting. In addition, Coach Rooney and his staff will introduce the campers to the college recruiting process and provide important evaluations. LINK
Please contact the Athletic Office at 707-654-1050 to sign up or with questions.

WJU/Nike summer boy's basketball camp begins July 5

Lance Von Vogt, athletic director and head men's basketball coach at William Jessup University is set to team up with Nike to host their summer boy's basketball camp. Registration is still open by visiting ussportscamps.com or calling 1-800-NIKE-CAMP (645-3226).

The camp is intended to help players of all abilities develop athletically, refine fundamental basketball skills and enhance their skill set at the post, wing or guard position. Emphasis is placed on fundamental development, shooting, offensive moves, defense, rebounding, team play and more.

Von Vogt will be leading the camp coming off a number 23 national ranking at the end of the 2015-2016 season. In their second year after moving up to NAIA division one, Von Vogt took the Warriors to the National Championship tournament in Kansas City, MO where the Warriors defeated second-seeded University of Pikeville (Kentucky) in the opening round. Before coming to the Warriors in 2013, Von Vogt led Peninsula College to their first NWAACC Championship in forty-one years.

"The camp is always such a great way to connect with the community," said Von Vogt. "Seeing the improvement that campers show not only during camp but between camps utilizing the drills we give them is so rewarding. Everyone from the campers to a very talented coaching staff has a great time working hard and improving not only their basketball skills but their life skills as well."

Along with a week of learning, campers will get to dine at the nation's #3 ranked college cafeteria, Crossroads Cafe, and will leave with a Nike camp t-shirt and customized Nike workbook.

Camp will be held from July 5-July 8th from 8AM-9PM at William Jessup University's Warrior Arena. Overnight camp accommodations are offered. The camp is $425 for day campers and $525 for overnight campers.

Brad Rogers back to WJU

Coach Rogers: "Excited to be joining @CoachVonVogt and the @WJUSports athletic department. Looking forward to the opportunity and to be back in the GSAC!"

A native of Cameron Park, Rogers was formerly a head coach at Antelope Valley University, an assistant men’s basketball coach and assistant athletic director at Arizona Christian University, an assistant at William Jessup and also at Sierra College.

Hiring a coach, hiring a player

"Did Lorenzo Romar, Brandon Roy and UW’s recruiting of the Porter brothers cross the line?" -- Larry Stone

At least Lorenzo Romar and Porter Sr. have a long time friendship, one not borne out of convenience. Coaches hire who they know and who they can trust -- two factors that dominate staffing additions, that is, unless someone can bring along a prospect, or two. So Romar gets a two-fer here. But it is too bad for so many out there who are qualified but lack this or that hiring connection.

Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Bryce Rose to the Keelhaulers

"Corsair, former Logger signs with Cal Maritime" -- The Times Standard

Knight honored

"Windsor's Gabe Knight is All-Empire large school boys basketball player of the year" -- Phil Barber

The apple doesn't fall far from the tree

"Cloverdale's Jayson McMillan named All-Empire small school boys basketball player of year" -- Lori A. Carter

Long Beach makes it official

"BEACH BASKETBALL HIRES SENQUE CAREY AS ASSISTANT COACH"

Long Beach State Men’s Basketball has hired Senque Carey to fill its vacant assistant coaching position. Carey spent last season as an assistant coach at Florida Gulf Coast, helping lead the Eagles to the NCAA Tournament.

“We are excited to add Senque to the Beach family,” said head coach Dan Monson. “He comes to us with a wealth of Division I experience as well as west coast ties. I first met Senque as a player at the University of Washington and have admired his career ever since.

“He combines great people skills with a high IQ for the game of basketball. I am very excited about the positive impact Senque can have on not only our players, but on our entire program.”

Carey is a veteran of west coast coaching and recruiting, having spent time at New Mexico, Portland State, Loyola Marymount, Hawai’i and Fresno State.

Carey spent five years at Fresno State, recruiting and developing a number of NBA-Caliber players, most notably Paul George, who has gone on to become an All-Star with the Indiana Pacers. Dominic McGuire and Greg Smith have also gone on to NBA careers following their time with the Bulldogs and Carey.

After finishing his collegiate playing career at New Mexico, Carey stayed on with the Lobos as an Undergraduate Assistant Coach, and then took his first full-time position in Division I as an assistant coach with Portland State. He spent one year with the Vikings before moving to Fresno State.

Following a five-year stint with the Bulldogs, Carey went on to start his own business, The Basketball Experience, a coaching program that provided training for players at all levels while serving as the head coach of Menlo-Atherton High School in Menlo Park.

Returning to Division I coaching in 2013-14, Carey worked alongside LBSU assistant coach Myke Scholl at Loyola Marymount, and then went on to spend one season at Hawai’i before taking his last position at Florida Gulf Coast. 

With the Eagles, Carey was responsible for the team’s low-post development, helping Marc-Eddy Norelia earned first-team All-Atlantic Sun honors as well as an NABC first-team All-District selection. Norelia had 16 double-doubles in 2015-16, and set multiple program records as the Eagles averaged 38.7 points per game in the paint.

The fourth seed in the Atlantic Sun tournament, Florida Gulf Coast went on a run to win the tournament, and then defeated Fairleigh Dickinson in the First Four at the 2015-16 NCAA Tournament.


Carey’s playing career started at Washington, where he was a Pac-10 All-Freshman selection before transferring to New Mexico. In 2001-02, Carey started 20 games for the Lobos but had a career-ending injury just after the beginning of the 2002-03 campaign.

An 11 and a half minute video on the birth, life and death of Marburys

"$15 Kicks - How Stephon Marbury tried to revolutionize the sneaker industry"

Monday, June 27, 2016

Honick again to head Branson program

"Honick back as Branson boys’ basketball coach" -- Harold Abend

Kelly receives a local offer

Team Arsenal: "2018 6'7 Forward Andre Kelly has received an offer from University of Pacific"

At Lincoln High in Stockton, he has a previous offer from San Jose State University.

Santos with initial offer

Team Arsenal: "2017 Guard Bobby Santos (Valley Christian) has received an offer from Simpson University"

The 5-foot-11 Santos was an Honorable Mention West Catholic Athletic League selection this season.

From the 2015 Nor Cal Spring Showcase: "5'11" PG Robert Santos of Valley Christian HS 2017 (MVP Wolfpack) Solid ball handler, makes pretty good decisions, shoots it fairly well."

Robinson with love from the Dons

Verbal Commits has 6-foot-3 2018 prospect Nate Robinson, out of Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep, as having been offered by Coach Kyle Smith and San Francisco.

From the 2015 Nor Cal Summer Tipoff: "Speedy guard who gets in the lane, good in transition, nice pull up jumper, OK shooter from 3"

From the 2015 Nor Cal Spring Showcase: "Nice-looking 2018 prospect who combines athleticism and a very impressive all-around offensive game. Handles and passes it well, finishes in transition, good driver with a nice hesitation move and an ok shooter with 3 range. He will be heard from..."

Prolific Prep with a Canadian franchise

Marc J. Spears: "Napa's @ProlificPrep is expanding to Sault Ste. Marie, Canada with a high school & post graduate basketball team, source told @TheUndefeated"

Marc J. Spears: "New names for @ProlificPrep will be Prolific Prep West (Napa), Prolific Prep North (high school, Canada) & Prolific Prep Post-Grade (Canada)"

Canada is producing a strong pool of prospects of late and this can only aid in their skill development.

Brown to Golden State

"Warriors offer Mike Brown top assistant job" -- Adrian Wojnarowski

An article that is needed is one explaining why Brown is such a popular (and valuable) choice to add to a coaching staff. The reasons are probably known to insiders but it would help fans understand if such appeared in print.

6-foot-2 2017 Arizona guard hitting UOP

Powerhouse Hoops: "PHH Family @ckresl1 on his Unofficial at @PacificMensBB Today
Elite Camp Tomorrow"

Richard Obert: "Chaparral guard Colten Kresl at Pacific on unofficial visit"

He visited Navy earlier.

Hoop Review events

There are three Hoop Review events coming up quick on the calendar:

July 2: Nor Cal Summer Preview at El Cerrito High School LINK

*July 7-8: Nor Cal Junior College Jamboree at Skyline College

*July 9-10: Nor Cal Summer Tip Off at San Francisco City College
Northern California's only NCAA certified event of the summer. It will run 8:00 am to 11:00 pm on Saturday and 8:00 am to 5:00 pm on Sunday

*indicates NCAA sanctioned event.

2016 NIKE Youth Basketball Camp Series


2016 NIKE Youth Basketball Camp Series:
JULY 5-7 @ JAMTOWN / 31  4TH ST  / OAKLAND CA
BOYS / AGES 7-15
PRESENTED BY

 
 
 CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE CAMP DETAILS & TO REGISTER:
SPACE IS LIMITED!!!

GUEST APPEARANCE BY:
SOUTH BAY NATIVE & NBA STAR
AARON GORDON OF THE ORLANDO MAGIC

> Aaron Gordon will be at the first 2 days of camp
> Campers will get to interact & take photos with Aaron Gordon
> Campers will get  the opportunity to earn/win Aaron Gordon Memorabilia
This camp 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.  Campers ages 7-15 (boys & girls) are all welcome.  Along with fundamental skill development; this camp will also consist of games, activities, camp t-shirts, NIKE prizes, awards, certificate of completion, evaluations & much more.  In addition to the highest level of instruction; campers will also get to interact with some of the top high school players throughout NorCal (as camp leaders); AS WELL AS SOUTH BAY NATIVE & NBA STAR AARON GORDON OF THE ORLANDO MAGIC. 
CAMPERS ARE REQUIRED TO BRING THEIR OWN
BASKETBALL, LUNCH & HYDRATION EACH DAY.

 
"Foundation for Excellence; On the Court, In the Class Room, In Life"

Summer Alliance Tournament

Summer Alliance Tournament
July 9th & 10th, 2016 
Registration deadline, July 1, 2016

Boys and Girls 8U- Varsity Division I,II,III
  • $275 1 team
  • $250 3 Teams
  • $225 5 or more

PLEASE COMPLETE TOURNAMENT ENTRY FORM
(click here)
Please Download Tournament App for Schedules, Rules and Information 

Download Android App click here

Download Apple App click here


Oakland Rebels Organization, P.O. Box 22240, Oakland, CA 94623

7th Annual Independence Day Invite

     

7th Annual
"INDEPENDENCE DAY INVITE"

Presented by:
Team Select / SF Rebels


Saturday/Sunday July 2nd/3rd
@ JAMTOWN / 31 4th St / Oakland CA

CONFIRMED ORGANIZATIONS:
- SF Rebels / Lady Rebels   - Team Select / Lady Select   - MOB   - MVP Flight   - Chuck Hayes
- Peak Basketball   - MHT Wolverines   - MCB   - Xover   - SVBC Thunder

CONTACT / REGISTER:
White Large
RUBEN GARCIA / 925) 367-3912

NATE FORD / 415) 445-5487
nford@kidsclub.org



"Foundation for Excellence; On the court, In the Class Room, In Life"

Yes, I am an expert on every damn element in my orbit

"Quit Being That Parent" -- Sam Person

For some, it's sadly even worse and an article titled "Quit Being That Person" is necessary.

Sunday, June 26, 2016

Meet Brian Dietschy

The novelist Thomas Wolfe was wrong, at least in Brian Dietschy's case, Having starred on the hardcourt at Las Lomas High and later spending close to 20 years as an assistant varsity basketball coach (5 years at Acalanes High School and 13 at his alma mater Las Lomas), Dietschy is now fully in charge as the head coach at the Walnut Creek school.

"I couldn't be more fired up to be back at Las Lomas," Dietschy explained. "Basketball feeds my soul. I love the game. I have a passion for it and for working with kids." The opportunity will allow Dietschy to put his stamp on the program. That will be "defense first, unselfish basketball. We'll play hard and for each other. I want these guys to really enjoy playing with one another.”

"I played at Las Lomas, Skyline College and the College of Notre Dame (now Notre Dame de Namur) and as soon as my playing career ended, I went into coaching," Dietschy said.
But let's not skip over his successful playing career. The all-time leading Las Lomas scorer, he earned MVP honors as a senior and was an All Bay Area honoree as both a junior and a senior. Dietschy was a sophomore on the Las Lomas team that fell in the Nor Cal finals. Recalling his early days, he offered, "The game meant a lot to me. I remember walking to the gym carrying my bag on game day through a long hallway. There was a JV or girls game taking place and I would sprint down the hall once I heard the ball being dribbled and the squeak of the shoes. I was a gym rat." Spending the days, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the local parks playing was his norm.

At Skyline College, he was an all conference selection and his College of Notre Dame team made the program's very first post-season appearance.

What's telling is Dietschy being named captain at every stop in his playing career. "It was bestowed upon me by my teammates. I took the game very seriously even at a young age. I was always pushing myself and my teammates to get better.”

This anecdote displays Dietschy's tenacity. "My Mom's brother played at Chaminade on the team that beat Virginia (the Ralph Sampson-led squad, 77-72 in 1982). My uncle was a really good high school and college player. Growing up we would often play one-on-one to 50 and he would never let up on me. He would beat me like 50-5 but eventually I beat him. We never played again after that."

Asked about next season's Las Lomas team, Dietschy said, "the sky is the limit. I wouldn't put any ceiling on how good we can be. We definitely have talent but that will not be enough -- nothing good ever comes without hard work. My job will be to get the players to want it more than I do."

Blunt signs with WJU

Chabot Men's Basketball: "Congratulations to Chabot sophomore Robert Blunt for signing his scholarship agreement to William Jessup University today! One of the top NAIA D1 programs in the country just got a great young man along with one of most promising two-way power forwards in the State this year!"

The 6-foot-7 frontcourter averaged 9.8 rebounds, 6.7 points and 1.4 blocked shots this season for Chabot while shooting 52% and 53%.

William Jessup, located in Rocklin and a member of the Golden State Athletic Asscoiation, finished 19-11 this season. The Warriors advanced into the second round of the NAIA national championship tournament this year.

Rico to CCSF

According to the Bay Pride roster at the San Francisco Pro Am site, 5-foot-10 Adrian Rico is listed as affiliated with City College of San Francisco. He's out of Berkeley High and played this season at Reno International Prep.

Hardy wanted by the Dons

TX Recruited: "2018 Bishop O'Dowd (CA) G Elijah Hardy has received an offer from San Francisco."

No way Hardy would even consider this one without the coaching change. But let's see who new Coach Kyle Smith can land.

Wilson with another offer

TX Recruited: "2018 Serra (CA) C Jack Wilson has received an offer from San Francisco."

Moore brought in by the Mavs

Sportando: "SOURCE: Mckenzie Moore will play for the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Summer League"

Vaughn summering with the 76ers

Sportando: "SOURCE: Kwame Vaughn will play for the 76ers in the NBA Summer League"

Green back on the court

"Big impression: Draymond Green works with youth at CSUMB Warriors Overnight Camp" -- John Devine

Logan Johnson highlights

LINK  Logan Johnson still has two years remaining at St. Francis High -- this Top Flight Elite video shows him already doing very good things. If the ball is loose on the floor, bet on him to come up with it.

Anderson with a solid season

Leroy Anderson of Lassen College and Oakland Unity High played at Grace University this season and averaged 18 minutes, 9.9 points and 6.4 rebounds while shooting 50%, 39% and 75%.

Grace is an D2 National Christian College Athletic Association member located in Omaha, Nebraska.

Big Wen with a D/D

Wendell McKines posted a 26 point, 18 rebound double-double on Saturday as former New Mexico basketball players bested those of New Mexico State 102-97 in Albuquerque. LINK

The reality of the majority of those on the latter half of NBA rosters

"From undrafted to the NBA" -- Kent Bazemore

Greenberg talking some transfer truths

Seth Greenberg has been a-twitterin' lately:

"Do you really think players just wake up at the end of June and say "I'm going to transfer". No. Their people field call and plant the seed."

and

"Coaches integrity must be questioned when they "blow up"/negative recruit, tamper with players off others program."

and

"The culture of the game today; the coaches are as much a part of the transfer problem as the players. No respect for each other."

Agree or disagree with some or all, this will have you thinking

"The End Of Hope: Whiteness And The Stigma of Race In The NBA
Both home and abroad, the NBA has never been more popular. So why are there fewer white superstars than ever before?"
-- Kevin L. Reeves

Manny Malou injured

From Tom Read:

"Emmanuel Malou received multiple Summer League invites & accepted the Phoenix Suns offer. However, I'm told he's pulled out due to injury."

and

"Malou will be sidelined for 4 weeks with a cyst that's ruptured in his knee. Not serious, but unfortunately means he won't play for Phoenix."

What is the answer that could actually resolve some of the issues?

"Is American basketball really that bad?" -- John Clay

Less games to prepare for and more practice of fundamentals at the high school/AAU level as well as collegiately would could be beneficial but that's not going to happen with high-powered, shoe-sponsored teams or with colleges who can make money off of televised matchups.

It's really difficult to see Marquese Chriss not fulfilling his potential

"Marquese Chriss could become franchise player for Phoenix Suns" -- Andy Furillo

Everything appears in place for him continuing to blossom.

The latest from Coach Bob Walsh

Coach Bob Walsh: "PHIL O’BRIEN – MANAGING PARTNER, YORK CONSULTING GROUP PERFORMANCE/VALUES CULTURE – THE FINAL QUESTION"

Friday, June 24, 2016

Out for the weekend

Back on Monday. Someone local or regional: please make some basketball news.

The NBA Draft

Welcome to the NBA Marquese Chriss. Drafted by his hometown team and then traded. Cold.

Jaylen Brown goes #3 when the 'conventional wisdom" was that he was dropping.

So much of the pre-draft chatter is guessing combined with mis-direction from the anonymously sourced 'experts'

"A record 14 international players were selected in the first round, a NBA record." -- Chad Ford

"I'm amazed at how many of the players drafted last night have a "suspect" or "inconsistent" outside shot." -- Paul Brogan

"NBA draft winners and losers: Thunder make big move" -- Michael Lee

"2016 NBA Draft Grades: How each team finished up on draft night" -- Sam Vecenie

"NBA Draft 2016 pick-by-pick results, analysis, trades, breakdowns" -- Mike DeCourcey

"The Misuse Of Probability In The Second Round Of The NBA Draft
Finding a diamond in the rough of the second round is immensely difficult, but to call it random is misguided" -- Matt Korman

Payton, Wiltjer and Taylor to Houston

Chris Haynes: "Houston Rockets will sign undrafted free agent Gary Payton II to three-year deal, league sources inform."

Jonathan Feigen: "In addition to Gary Payton II, Rockets have deals with Gonzaga F Kyle Wiltjer and Texas g Isaiah Taylor. All 3-yr deals, with team options."

Idehen iffy

"Idehen signs with Western Kentucky, but NCAA eligibility remains in question" -- James Burns

Let's hope his transcripts clear the NCAA.

SHC has a new coach

"MacKay new Sacred Heart Cathedral basketball coach" -- John Murphy

An addition to the Thunderbird program

Matthew Williams: "I've decided to commit to Merritt CC in Oakland ,Ca. Everyone's path is different, this is mine. I'll make the best of it."

Originally out of Baton Rouge, the 6-foot-7 Williams was at Reno International Prep this season.

West Coast Elite preliminary rosters July 8-10 Pomona-Pitzer

The West Coast Elite preliminary rosters are up and those with northern California connections are:

* Damari Milstead, Moreau Catholic 2017
* Ira Lee, Prolific Prep 2017
* Aidan Green, Tokay High 2017
* Shemar Morrow, Sacramento Country Day 2020
* Hunter Clarke, Campolindo 2020
* Devin Askew, Sacramento County Day 2020
* Ben Baker, Berkeley High, 2018
* Noah Hernandez, Ripon 2020
* Brian Askew, Sacramento Country Day 2018
* Noah Rakestraw, Granada, 2018
* Jesse Marlow, Acalanes 2017
* Matthew Willis, Whitney 2018
* Kris Bortz, Monte Vista 2019

A Travis Friar update

Top Flight Elite AAU: "Everyone needs to be on notice for July @travis_friar is legit!!!! LINK

Multiple tools and nowhere near his ceiling. Mitty is going to be tough yet again.

A Jack Wilson update

Gerry Freitas: "Moreau Catholic Tourney: 2018 big Jack Wilson of San Mateo Serra very impressive. Body much improved, solid post up game. Mid worth higher look."

Thursday, June 23, 2016

West Campus High's remarkable season

One program's achievement which has not received the acclamation it deserves this past season is that of the West Campus High team headed by Coach Fred Wilson.

But first, why the dearth of positive publicity? Yes, other programs have been more consistently successful up in the valley so maybe that's the reason but it's a feeble excuse because West Campus made news in 2015-16. Big news.

Prior to the start of the season, there was no one predicting a 29-6 Warrior finish, probably not a 10-2 Golden Empire League record nor concluding just one game short of playing for the California state championship.

Here's Wilson on his crew: "the pre-season was rough and going into league it was more about us learning to play the right way. It was a tug of war, playing against each other. We were winning but weren't good enough to win the state championship. The turning point was the game against Marysville (a February 8 61-60 road victory). We showed the necessary toughness and won at the buzzer. It was playing for each other rather than playing for a scholarship."

Here are the prominent elements of the West Campus hoops schedule: yes, the Warriors lost twice in league play to Golden Empire champion Capital Christian but that included coming up short 78-77 in double overtime. They also fell to Central Catholic of Modesto by one, 47-46, in the section D-IV title game. The final game was a 58-56 loss to Palma when the Chieftains went on a 14-0 rally in the last four minutes to take the victory and earn the right to face off with Harvard-Westlake out of southern California. Obviously, each of those pairings were winnable.

Also consider in their last six contests, the Warriors bopped Liberty Ranch 88-69, fell to Central Catholic when a last second shot didn't hit the mark and handled Corning High 59-36. Then it was edging St. Patrick-St. Vincent 52-51, topping Half Moon Bay 47-39, followed by the season-ending loss to Palma.

The proverbial Four Horsemen for Wilson were 6-foot-6 Isaiah Bates who averaged 11.2 points, 8.0 rebounds plus 3.0 blocks, 6-foot-5 Jeryn Lucas at 13.9 points, 6-foot-4 Monty Khela who produced 13.8 points as well as 4.1 rebounds and 5-foot-10 Darian Davis with 11.5 points and 3.5 assists per game. Wilson called Davis "our bulldog and the heart and soul of our team."

Of the quintet, Bates was set to take his over-the-top athletic ability to state champion City College of San Francisco but a recent injury has sidelined him for the time being. A large contingent of national JCs pursued him until his commitment. Lucas is moving on to play at Humboldt State and Khela signed with Colorado School of Mines. The latter also sports a 4.1 grade point average. Davis will be going the community college route and signing late.

2018 prospect Nate Karren is also deserving of a detailing here. Now standing 6-foot-9, his inside-outside game is intriguing with Stanford and Northern Arizona actively recruiting him.

Wilson stressed, "we're an academically focused program andbecause of that, a lot of our guys not only get athletic but also academic scholarships. We have connections to so many college coaches."

Best of all, the West Campus success ultimately became a full-fledged team effort which made this season all the more satisfying. In Wilson's West Campus tenure, his teams have posted 9-17, 16-13, 13-14, 19-11 and 29-6 records. What will 2016-17 bring?

Brown to Beantown

"Celtics formed a bond with Jaylen Brown" -- Gary Washburn

Celtics take Jaylen Brown with #3 pick..." -- Adam Kurkjian

Chriss to the Valley of the Sun

"Pleasant Grove’s Marquese Chriss calls Phoenix Suns ‘a great fit’" -- Joe Davidson/Andy Furillo

"Suns trade for Kings pick to take Marquese Chriss" -- Paul Coro

Wallace is drafted

Cal's Tyrone Wallace goes to Utah with the final pick of the second round.

It may be better being a free agent than a second-rounder

Those with northern California connections not drafted on Thursday:

* Emmanuel Malou
* Gary Payton II
* Isaiah Taylor

Perry makes it official

Marcelas H. Perry: "Holy Names University 18"

Perry is a 5-foot-9 sophomore guard at American River College who graduated from Capital Christian High. He averaged 22.4 points, 4.7 boards and 3.4 assists per game this season.


Good background work by Eric Bossi

"Crunching the Numbers: Recruiting rankings and the NBA Draft" -- Eric Bossi

Max Hooper's NBA dream

"Long-distance shooter an NBA long shot" -- John Devine

It would be fantastic if somehow Hooper made it but he would also need to show he can defend superb athletes at the two or three and move his offensive arsenal beyond catch-and-shoot.

A lot of good background information here

"WHY TOP COLLEGE BASKETBALL PROSPECTS ARE FORGOING TRADITIONAL HIGH SCHOOLS TO JOIN SUPERTEAMS" -- Pete Thamel

Done deal

Jeff Goodman: "Cal transfer Jordan Mathews told ESPN he has committed to Gonzaga. Huge pickup for the Zags"

A really good look at Adam Morrison

"Life as an NBA Draft Bust
It’s better than you might think. Ask Adam Morrison"
Yaron Weitzman

He played in the NBA, he's very wealthy and he's heavily involved with his family. What's not to like?

"Bring It" AAU Basketball tournament


bball-top.jpg


BBC010
BullDawgs Basketball Club
Presents
“Bring It”

AAU Basketball Tournament
July 16th & 17th, 2016

Coaches, and Team Managers,
BullDawgs Basketball Club would like to
invite you to our summer tournament.
Get ready for Nationals!

Girls Divisions
3rd  4th    5th     6th    7th    8th
Jr. Varsity &   Varsity

Boys Division
3rd  4th    5th     6th    7th    8th
Jr. Varsity &   Varsity

  • 1st Place Team Awards
  • $300.00 with a 3 Game Guarantee
  • ALL Teams $250.00 by July 4th
  • Some divisions will have 4 games
  • Multiple teams discount of 4 or more teams
  • Quality Sites w/ On-site Administrators
  • Certified High School/College Officials
  • Snack Bars
  • Onsite Scorekeepers
  • Stop Clock 
  • Posted Schedules in every gym

    Location: City College of SF, Sequoia High School, and Menlo College
      For Information contact: Alfonso Joo    Cell 650-267-3678
        Email  Alfonsojoo@yahoo.com  Register on   www.Dawgsclub.com

        Wednesday, June 22, 2016

        Pope to EOU

        John Bynum: "Brennan Pope (Modesto) has committed to Eastern Oregon University. Pope averaged 10.6 points and 6.7 rebounds last season for the Pirates."


        Pope is a 6-foot-2 sophomore out of Davis High who shot 41%, 41% and 68% as well as averaging 3.8 assists a game. He transferred into Modesto Junior College from Stanislaus State.

        BManning taking a grad year

        The NorCal Report: "2016 PG Brandynn Manning (@_manning32) of Deer Valley HS will attend @spisports (FL) for a post grad year."

        Manning is a 6-foot-1 guard.

        John injured

        San Francisco Bay Area Pro-AM: "We at the San Francisco Bay Area Pro-Am would like to send our prayers and get well soon, with a full and fast recovery to AJ John of SF City. He's an incredible up and coming talent entering UC Davis. We look forward to seeing him back in action. You're in our thoughts and prayers."

        Don't know what the injury is.

        A fascinating article

        "STORY OF LLOYD DANIELS BROUGHT TO LIFE…AGAIN" -- Ronnie Flores

        Never seen the phrase "functional crack addict" used before.

        The official Recruiting class for Cal State Dominguez Hills


        "Cal State Dominguez Hills men's basketball head coach Steve Becker has inked four talented and explosive recruits to begin competing for the Toros in 2016-17.  Forwards in freshman Malcolm Johnson, graduate student Theo Johnson and sophomore Michael Hatfield will join guard Glenn Baral as the next four signees for Becker, who is looking for CSUDH to improve upon last year's 11th place finish in the California Collegiate Athletic Association standings as well as replace four seniors who finished their eligibility last year.

        Theo Johnson, a 6-7 Sacramento native who attended Division I Liberty University in Virginia, will have just one year of eligibility for the Toros, and brings solid numbers back to the west coast.  He was Liberty's top player during the 2014-15 season, averaging 10.0 points, 4.6 boards and 1.7 assists per game after playing two seasons at the College of Charleston, also hitting 43% of his shots from the floor and 73% from the foul line.

        "Theo has played at a high level for the past three years, and is going to be one of the most versatile players in the CCAA," predicts Becker.  "His athleticism will allow him to score in a variety of ways, and will create match-up problems for a lot of teams.  His ability to both finish above the rim and excel in transition is going to allow him to play several different positions, and will be someone Toro fans are really going to enjoy watching."

        At 6-8, Michael Hatfield averaged 11.3 points and 6.4 rebounds per game in one year Modesto Junior College last year, converting on 51.7% of his field goal attempts that included a solid 43.5% success rate from 3-point land.

        "We are very excited about the opportunity to work with Mikey for the next three years," begins Becker.  "He is a very intelligent young man whose feel for the game and ability to stretch the floor will add depth to our post play and give him an opportunity to impact the game immediately. He comes to CSUDH with a 3.5 GPA, we expect big things from him."

        The final recruit in this bunch, Glenn Baral brings versatility to Carson after one season at Clark College in Vancouver, Washington, that followed a season at Division I Steton University in Florida. A 6-4 playmaker, Baral averaged 11.8 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, connecting on nearly half his shots from the floor and 43% from 3-point land.

        "Glenn is a big guard who's really versatile and understands the game," begins Becker.  "He shoots the ball at a high percentage and will be able to immediately impact the winning process. He is a tremendous student with a great deal of character and we are excited for Glenn to bring his leadership and experience to Carson."

        Plus, the latest signee is Marquis Godfrey but CSDH athletics has yet to post that one.