Kiwi Gardner and John Green updates

From T.J. Parry, an assistant coach at Westwind Prep:

"WPI Blue 112 Pima Community College 100. Kiwi Gardner 40 pts 11 assists, 4 boards..."

and

"John Green 18 pts and 8 boards..."

Updates on Max Fodor and Nefi Perdomo

While looking for something else, we stumbled across updates on two former Bay Area basketballers;

* 6-foot-8 Max Fodor, out of Bellarmine, is a freshman at San Francisco State University.

* 6-foot-1 Nefi Perdomo, out of Skyline, is a sophomore at San Francisco State University. He "started in 24 of the 27 games he played in his freshman season...averaged 10.9 points and 3.5 rebounds per game..."

An update on former Sac High big Will Davis' recruiting

From the New Hampton Hoops Twitter site: "New Hampton PF Will Davis is taking an official visit to PENN this weekend."

More on Kiwi Gardner

Just saw this evaluation on Kiwi Gardner: "Freakishly quick, Gardner plays with urgency every play. Tremendous ball skills whether in traffic or open court. Can defend bigger, stronger and athletic. Best defender I’ve seen in years. His presence on the court makes everyone better. Explosive 1st step. Can score in traffic. Has solid range from beyond the arc. Plays with reckless abandon which is a plus now but will need to tone it down at the MM-HM level. Have had 2 Pac 10 coaches tell me could be in same category as Jerome Randle."

The opportunity for a life-shaping college education and the chance to play on a big stage will be there if Kiwi takes care of the academics. He has 'it' -- may he employ that to the utmost in all aspects of his life.

Chabot College men's basketball

Coach Denny Aye is ready for another season at Chabot College and stocked with a number of 'move-on' prospects.

Here's the Gladiator roster by position and alphabetical):

*   Paul Bailey F/G Fr 6' 1'' 180 Hayward, CA

*  Joshua De La Torre G Fr 6'2" 180 Washington Prep/Los Angeles, CA

* Jourdan DeMuynck G So 6' 6'' 205 Castro Valley/San Leandro, CA

* Terrell Gates G Fr 5'10" 155 James Logan/Hayward, CA

* Damon Jones Jr. G Fr 6' 2" 180 St. Elizabeth/San Leandro, CA

* Howie Manzo G So 6'0" 175 James Logan/Hayward, CA

* Randy Newell Jr. PG So 5'9" 165 Washington Prep/Los Angeles, CA

* Kurtis Ong PG Fr 5'11" 170 St. Ignatius/Fremont, CA


* Chammar Grissom F Fr 6' 4" 215 Fremont (Oakland)/Oakland, CA
      
* Tobias Royal F Fr 6' 4" 225 Fremont (Oakland)/Oakland, CA


* Colin Chadwick F/C So. 6' 9'' 230 Justin Siena/St. Helena, CA

* Jacob Noisat F/C So. 6' 8'' 225 Elsie Allen/Santa Rosa, CA

* Jason Silsdorf F/C So. 6'11" 220 Encinal, Oakland, CA
      

* Kyle Luckett C So. 7'0" 235 Horlick/Racine, WI

Coach Randy Rahe can't say enough about Damian Lillard

Former Oakland High backcourter Damian Lillard is more than prospering at Weber State. Coming off Big Sky Conference most valuable player honors, his coach Randy Rahe recently said this:

“As for … Damian, I’ve been in Division I basketball a little more than 20 years and I’ve not been around a kid that works at it as hard as he does. As a player, he’s hard to guard, has great range and still have sneaky explosiveness. For his size, he’s got big hands and long arms.”

A few highlight videos

Go here to check out a few videos featuring Bay Area kids -- Kiwi Gardner and John Green, plus one on Greg Smith who played with the Soldiers..

Cabrillo College in 2010-2011

From the Cabrillo athletics site:

The 2010-2011 Cabrillo College Seahawks return four sophomores from last seasons 14-12 team that finished in 2nd place in the Coast Conference South division with an 8-4 record.

* Markus Duran, a second team All-Coast Conference selection as a Freshman, (6'1", 180) will look to lead the Seahawks as the only returning starter from last year. Duran led the state in three point field goals made in 09-10 and will no doubt be one of the better three point shooters again this season.

* Daniel Johnston, (6'3", 200), will look to play a much bigger role this year with his steady improvement since last year.

* Bertram Hall, (6'6", 215), started several games last year and will also be counted on if the Seahawks are to win the Conference.

Cody Boaz, (6'2", 185), has also improved considerably from last year and is now entering his third year in the program after recovering from ACL tear two years ago. He to will be competing for playing time.

Coach Tony Marcopulos, entering his 11th year as Head Coach, welcomes nine newcomers to the program.

* Justyn Searle, (6'9", 215) Kerns High School in Salt Lake City, UT.

* Travis Van Diest, (6'8", 210) Rocky Mountain High School in Boise, ID.

* Erik Witzig, (6'3", 215) Scotts Valley High School in Scotts Valley, CA

Searle, Van Diest and Witzig will be competing for playing time along with Hall at the post position.

The competition at the forward position will see, along with Johnston and Boaz:

* Darrell Espy, (6'4", 190) Dominguez High School in Compton, CA and a recent transfer from Norfolk State University in Virginia.

* Trevor English, (6'5", 190) Reno High School in Reno, NV

* Aaron Short, (6'4", 200) North Valley High School in Reno, NV.

All three have had very impressive High School careers and will all be excellent additions. The competition at that position will be quite a battle.

In the backcourt, along with Duran, Cabrillo has added:

* Reed Kamler, (6'2", 185) San Rafael High School in San Rafael, CA and a transfer from the University of the Pacific.

*Tyler Velasquez, (5'10", 170) Doherty High School in Colorado Springs, CO.

* Stevie McCloyn, (5'11", 180) Taylorsville High School in Salt Lake City, UT.

The competition in the backcourt will be interesting as well.

The DeAnza College men's basketball roster

DeAnza Coach Jason Damjanovic is entering his sixth season heading the Dons program and has quite the mix of players on his roster in 2010-2011, including some imports.

Breaking them down by position, guards first, and then alphabetically:

* Jeremy Allen SO 5-foot-9 Guard Fremont High, Sunnyvale, CA

* Chris Benavente FR 5-foot-10 Guard Palma High, Salinas, CA

* Cory Catchings FR 6-foot-4 Guard Callaway High, Jackson, MS

* Major Corpuz FR 5-foot-8 Guard Leadership High, San Francisco, CA

* Anthony Day FR 6-ffot-4 Guard Desert High, Los Angeles, CA

* Noel Dixson FR 6-foot-1 Guard Mt. Zion Academy, Bronx, NY

* Drew Thompson SO 5-foot-10 Guard Millard High, West Omaha, NE

* Greg Valenzuela SO 6-foot-3 Guard Santa Teresa High,  San Jose, CA

* Nolan Williams FR 6-foot-4 Guard Von Steuben High, Chicago, IL

* Joshua Williams FR 5-foot-10 Guard Crane Tech, Chicago, IL

* Denzel Darangue SO 6-foot-7 Forward John Ehret Marrero, LA

* Stefan Demirovic FR 6-foot-4 Forward Union Pines High, Bar, Montenegro

* Josh Grant SO 6-foot-5 Forward Oak Grove High, San Jose, CA

* Eric Heslin FR 6-foot-7 Forward Cupertino High, San Jose, CA

* George Kipiani FR 6-foot-7 Forward St. Thomas More High, Tbilisi, Rep. Georgia

* Dusan Komljenovic FR 6-foot-7 Forward Economics High, Banja Luka, Bosnia

An Eli Holman update

It took a while but Eli Holman finally wound up at Detroit, got back on the court and enjoyed a successful initial season with the Titans.

Here is Perry Farrell/Detroit Free Press in a recent article: "...Junior Eli Holman is ready to become the top big man in the conference. He averaged 11.8 points and 8.9 rebounds last season and could average double figures in rebounding and scoring..."

Here is Eli talking about Detroit hoops in a Michael Martinez/FOX article: "...It’s very big (for the team),” forward Eli Holman said. “You have an All-American point guard coming in, joining a returning big man who led the conference in three categories, plus Chase Simon, who led the team in scoring. I look at it as a Big Three, although everybody has a role to play.”

The big man Holman refers to is himself. In his first full season in Detroit, he led the Horizon League in rebounds, blocks and field-goal percentage..."

Here's a video interview with Eli.

The background on Max Hooper to Harvard

From the New England Recruiting Report, comes this feature on ex-Valley Christian shooter deluxe Max Hooper going with Harvard:

Harvard Lands a Hooper
New England Recruiting Report
October 27, 2010

Brewster Academy post-graduate Max Hooper was excited about Harvard even before he arrived on their Cambridge campus this weekend for his official visit.

“Going into the visit I really liked the coaching staff a lot and just liked the vision they had for the program and for me as a player,” Hooper said. “Academically, Harvard is Harvard.  You can’t dispute that fact.”

Hooper’s affinity for the Crimson was only reinforced this weekend, leading him to make a verbal commitment less than 48 hours later...

Go here for the remainder.

An update on former Bay Area Hoosier Robert Sandoval

Robert Sandoval was a pleasure to watch in his final club team season with the Bay Area Hoosiers. Now he's a freshman at Azuza Pacific and here is his profile:

HIS YEAR: One of the top incoming freshmen in the GSAC, guard Robert Sandoval will have an immediate impact on the Cougars ... Smart and tough player ... Can shoot from the perimeter but is outstanding at getting into the lane and making plays, whether it be finding the open man or finishing a shot ... Skill-wise and emotionally is very well-developed and ready to play as a freshman ... Rated a natural leader ... Could press for a starting position but will certainly see plenty of action.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 2 seasons of varsity basketball for Head Coach Tim Amundsen at state power Clovis (Calif.) East High ... As a 2010 senior led the Timberwolves to a 25-8 record and the CIF Central Section Division I championship ... Was named the Fresno Bee Player of the Year after averaging 17 points, 7.6 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 3.8 steals ... As a 2009 junior was named All-Fresno Bee after averaging 14 points, 5.9 rebounds and 5.6 assists ... Tallied 31 points, 10 assists and 8 steals in a victory over Cleveland High ... Was a 2-time All-Tri-Rivers Athletic Conference honoring, earning conference MVP honors as a senior and sharing it as a junior.

Max Hooper goes Ivy League

Don't what what the aid situation will be but the education can't be beat and Tommy Amaker is certainly landing talent -- Max Hooper, at Brewster (NH) Academy this year, has given a verbal to Harvard.

Talking with Shanan Rosenberg, Foothill College basketball coach

The community college option. It's an element of collegiate basketball and its constant companion recruiting that gets short-shrifted. For many, these ranks allow the continuance of a basketball-playing career, the opportunity of earning a D-1, D-2 or NAIA scholarship and, if such isn't in the cards, the possibility of receiving a vocational –oriented education valid in today's job market. Recently, we talked with Foothill Coach Shanan Rosenberg about some of these subjects as well as the what and how of his accomplishments with the men's basketball program.

First, a little background.

All was definitely not a bouquet of roses when Rosenberg assumed the head coach position at Foothill. In fact, the basketball program was at it's nadir, sorely in need of a fresh start after receiving the death penalty for a year.

Prior to arriving at Los Altos Hills, Rosenberg was part of the ultra successful coaching staff of Mike Legarza's at nearby Cañada College. He also worked under Prescott Smith (Chico St.) and former USF Coach Bob Gaillard at Lewis & Clark in Portland, a program that won their conference and participated in the national tournament all three years Rosenberg worked there.

The results to date of Rosenberg's tenure: nine years later, Foothill hoops has played its way into in seven state championship tournaments -- this despite not exactly residing in a zip code that churns out hoops prospects. Last season, the Owls finished 23-8 overall, culminating in an appearance in the Elite Eight in the state championship series.

Capping that rise, Rosenberg remembers an old-timer at the state tournament this past season telling him "this is the furthest I've ever seen a Foothill team go."

So why did he decide to take on such a difficult task even if such was a homecoming of sorts?

"I saw Foothill College as a fantastic place to work. I love it here," Rosenberg said."

And it doesn't appear he's desirous of a loftier location.

"There's a big misconception about professional mobility (the idea of always wanting to move up)," he said. "Most Community College coaches are hired as faculty and often have rich backgrounds and credentials in education. Whereas, athletic-scholarship universities for example seldom require their coaches to teach in a Kinesiology department. I love to teach, in the gym and classroom, and help kids reach their potential and Foothill allows me to do that. You don't have as much freedom in D-1 because the job demands, values and lifestyles can be quite different – you have to win."

He then added, "But nobody puts more pressure on us to succeed than I do."

Rosenberg credits many for the Foothill transformation. "We've been able to establish a program culture I am very proud of, mostly due to sacrifices and commitments of our past players. I have always tried to establish a solid local recruiting base first, as these kids are the life-blood of our program."

In the Santa Clara Valley and even extending outward, Rosenberg is the most successful community college coach at landing West Catholic Athletic League (WCAL) guys. A graduate of St. Francis in Mountain View, he has two players from St. Francis (Shawn Grant, Kyle Hypes), one from Serra (Jordan Reudy) and another from Bellarmine (Freddy Eberheardt) on his current roster.

"But I love the public schools kids too," Rosenberg said with a chuckle. And indeed, two players from Westmont High (James Weimer, Ben Neves) and one from Willow Glen (Jimmy Renneke) are members of the Owl basketball squad, as are a pair of players from Marshall High (Bill Collier, Teandre Hubbard) in San Francisco..

Yes, there also are a few unfamiliar names present.

"I haven't actively sought out out-of-area players," Rosenberg explained. "There are recruiting-contact rules and other hurdles that make out-of-area recruiting difficult – particularly for us. There's no apartments within a couple of miles of campus -- remember, this is Los Altos Hills. It would be a struggle financially to live here compared to some of the other cities around the state."

He added, "Our success and reputation have helped with all of our recruiting, and our beautiful campus/location and our outstanding faculty/programs are all assets. Regarding out-of-are players, usually it's someone who knew an ex-player or was aware of what Foothill has to offer. Sometimes, maybe a guy who wanted to come to California to get away from a bad situation. We've had some guys from out-of-state but they have had significant family assistance."

Rosenberg continued, "There's definitely a lot of toil that goes into recruiting and I'm fortunate to have three eager members on my staff in [Associate Head Coach] Matt Stanley, [Assistant Coach] Larry Lumpkins and [Assistant Coach] Jimmy Herrera. I was also very fortunate to learn from some great recruiting mentors.”

His recruiting truth?

"Identify early and find kids that fit our program in terms of talent/skill, academic values and character -- after you do this enough, you know what you're looking for," Rosenberg offered, adding "never travel in twos (have each coach go to a different high school game) and establish a reputation because credibility is valuable. We want to be known as a program that develops student-athletes and quality young men, a program that wins, and creates opportunities for players to reach their potential and transfer. Overall, we try to recruit with integrity and keep the best interests of the kids in mind."

As for what community colleges have to offer, he said, "We're a wonderful system for variety of populations – unparalleled access and supported opportunity in higher education makes our community college system a national educational treasure. No SAT scores or high school transcripts are needed. You get an A.A. degree or vocational certificate and you are able to move on whether it be continue academic pursuits or enter the work force."

What's not to like?

Santa Rosa JC lands a new prospect

Jordan Salley was a high school baller in southern California last year who signed with Montana State of the Big Sky Conference. Unfortunately, his academics didn't clear and the 6-foot-6 frontcourter is now taking his game to Santa Rosa JC and Coach Craig McMillan:

A few weeks back the Bobcats basketball program was hit with some bad news from the NCAA Clearing House, but took the opportunity to make the best of an unfortunate situation.

With school already underway the NCAA clearing house notified the Bobcats men’s coaching staff and freshman post player Jordan Salley from LaVerne, Los Angeles that they were ruling Salley a “Non-qualifier” for NCAA Division 1 purposes. What this meant is that he would not be allowed to compete for the Bobcats or any other D-1 program until he completes an associate degree from a junior college.

Salley was already enrolled and taking classes at MSU when the news broke. Salley has since transferred to Santa Rosa Junior college in Northern California, and will compete for then the next two years...

Go here for the full article. Thanks to mslacat and his Montana/Montana State sports site.

Here's an ESPN April 2009 evaluation of Salley:

Salley, a lefty, has very long arms and uses this length to crash the boards on both ends of the floor. He scores on offensive rebounds put-backs and runs the floor reasonable well, which leads to easy finishes on the break. Salley has very good strength and powers up in traffic and finishes with bodies hanging on him. Salley generates power in the strong lower half of his body and has the capacity to add even more strength. His quick leaping ability allows him to play an active brand of basketball and get to offensive boards before the opposition. Salley, especially since he is undersized, needs to improve his post footwork and add counter moves to his game.

A note on ex-Bay Area baller Jamal Ford

From one of Gary Trousdale's latest tweets:

"Jamal Ford, 6-5 Class of 2011. Westwind Prep, played solid today. Ford gets better everyday".

Kiwi Gardner now a 2012-er

As expected, former Manteca High backcourter Kiwi Gardner, now at Westwind Prep in Phoenix, has pushed back his graduation date:

"Kiwi Gardner, a 5'7 point guard from Westwind Prep (AZ), has reclassified into the class of 2012, according to Gary Trousdale." (his coach at Westwind)

and

T.J. Parry, an assistant coach at Westwind Prep, recently tweeted this after Gardner matched up with Jahii Carson, a top 2011 star backcourter who has committed to Arizona State:

"With Kiwi's 6+ 3s and getting to the rim at will I would have to say Kiwi [won] the 1on1 battle this time. Jahii has some incredible athleticism"

Drew Gordon has a torn meniscus

Former Archbishop Mitty star and ex-UCLA Bruin Drew Gordon, now at New Mexico, is having surgery today for a meniscus injury -- go here for the details.

Coach Steve Coccimiglio and Diablo Valley College, 2010-2011 version

Since 1990, fans have witnessed Steve Coccimiglio prowling the sidelines at Diablo Valley College and always winning more than losing whether it be with bigger lineups or small ball rosters. The 2010-2011 season looks particularly promising as the veteran mentor has some size to combine with his usual group of solid backcourters, making the Vikings both inside and outside threats offensively.

"I like our group," Coccimiglio said, "they are smart basketball players, easy to coach and get along well."

He added "we have a solid backcourt, especially with Brian Goins, Khufu Nagee is long and athletic, Raphael Carter can play inside/out and Zach Payne is effective down low."

Daiblo Valley was 17-13 last season, 18-12 the year before and a superlative 26-8 in the 2007-2008 Big 8 Conference go-around.

Here's Coccimiglio's talent, most of them local:

Brian Goins, 5-10, freshman

Selected as the Most Valuable Player of the July Las Positas Shootout, Goins didn't play organized basketball during high school. An Army brat of sorts, he was discovered playing city league hoops by one of Coccimiglio's former players, Rodney (Skyline High) Ponder, and recommended to the DVC staff. According to Coccimiglio, Goins is "very quick, has a great feel for the game" and learning the basketball concepts he missed out on during his prep years. Goins was residing in the Concord area when discovered.

Jordan Estrada, 6-foot-1, sophomore (De La Salle High)

Coccimiglio sees Estrada as "a combo guard who is a good leader, blue collar tough and a solid shooter."

Khufu Nagee, 6-foot-3, freshman (Berkeley High)

Having just committed to San Jose State (he was a qualifier coming out of high school), Nagee is described by Coccimiglio as "very coachable, with live legs and a great mid-range game."

Ronnie Baker, 6-foot-3, freshman (Rodriguez High)

"Ronnie will be a good freshman for us," Coccimiglio siad.

Zach Payne, 6-foot-7, sophomore (De La Salle High)

A returnee, Payne evaluates his big man as "well-coached, a very solid guy and a great leader on the team."

Lewis Lowe, 6-foot-8. (Vallejo High)

Back from college in Oklahoma, "he will be a good player for us," Coccimiglio said, adding, "Lewis has good hands and a big frame (235 pounds)."

Raphael Carter, 6-foot-8

Out of Columbus, Ohio, Coccimiglio offered "Carter has a great upside and he's a good shotblocker." Nevada showed some interest in Carter last year and that induced the young man to try his hand at hoops in the junior college ranks out here.


Coccimiglio has a pattern of especially getting his players to the Western Athletic Conference and Nagee is the latest example. Other Vikings who went on to the WAC:

* Mo Charlo, Eureka High - (Nevada), @ DVC 2002-04

*Demarshay Johnson, Oakland Tech - (Nevada), @ DVC 2003-05

* Marion Thurmond. Hayward High - (San Jose State), @ DVC 1998-2000

* Tyree Gardner, San Leandro High - (San Jose State), @ 2002-03

* Mac Peterson, Deer Valley High - (San Jose State), @ DVC 2006-07

McKines out 10-12 weeks

The latest prognosis for New Mexico State frontcourter Wendell McKines is being sidelined for 10-12 weeks. Go here for the update.

Max Hooper visiting Harvard

The Brewster Academy basketball Twitter account is reporting that former Valley Christian sharpshooter Max Hooper will be tripping to Harvard this weekend. Max is doing a prep year at BA.

Four Bay Area, Nor Cal players picked for Big West Conference honors

The Rush The Court site offers up a Big West Conference preview and here are the Bay Area highlights:

Orlando Johnson and James Nunnally (both at UC Santa Barbara) are named to the All Conference team, Mark Payne (UC Davis) as the Sixth Man and Kareem Nitoto (UC Riverside) as the Impact Newcomer.

Brendan Keane to Northern Colorado

Jimmy Durkin has the details on Brendan Keane's verbal to Northern Colorado -- go here. NC is a member of the Big Sky Conference.

Wendell McKines breaks his foot

Former Richmond High star Wendell McKines is entering his senior season at New Mexico State. But the latest news is he has a broken foot -- check out his Twitter account.

The vastly underrated Damian Lillard

Blue Ribbon College Basketball Yearbook and ESPN are teaming up to offer on-line previews and Weber State of the Big Sky Conference is offered today.

In the look at the Wildcats, this is said about Damian Lillard (Oakland High) by Weber State Head Coach Randy Rahe:

"I've been doing this 22 years, four years as a head coach, been around a lot of kids and I don't think I've ever been around a kid that works as hard, puts in the time and is as obsessed with working out and getting better as this kid," Rahe said. "He's the total package. It's nice thinking to know this kid is capable of playing really well and doing a lot of things to help your team win. And he's so grounded and humble that it makes it even that much more special for us."

The 6-foot-2 Lillard was named the league most valuable player after averaging 19.9 points, 4 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game as a sophomore..

Go here for the full Weber State preview.

An update on Will Davis

Sac High's Will Davis is doing a prep year at New Hampton School in New Hampshire and here is the latest on Will per the New Hampton Hoops Twitter account:

"It's fall break at NHS and 2011 PF Will Davis is taking unofficial visits to PENN, Drexel, and Deleware over the next few days"

A Tyree McCrary update

Out of Oak Grove High and San Jose City College, 6-foot-8 Tyree McCrary signed on with Adams State in Colorado.

But now a knee injury has sidelined him for the next four to six weeks and the plan is for Tyree to redshirt this season and have two years of eligibility come 2011-2012.

We wish Tyree well.

An interview with Wendell McKines

Former Richmond High star Wendell McKines is entering his senior season at New Mexico State. Here's a YouTube video of him talking about the upcoming season, his number change and other matters.

A major tip o' the hat to Jason Groves, Las Cruces Sun-News.



Here is Wendell's Twitter account.

Juan Anderson at Marquette's Midnight Madness

You don't hear or read about this too often, especially from a player at least a couple of time zones away:

"Marquette's first (only!) verbal for the 2011 freshman class, Juan Anderson, is heading back to campus on his own dime to join the party. This is an extraordinary commitment from a high school kid who lives in California." -- Cracked Sidewalks.

Here's a feature on Anderson's verbal top Marquette, including quotes from Oakland Rebels (Anderson's club team) Coach Raymond Young.

A feature on UC Davis hoops

Here's an article in the Sacramento Bee highlighting just how many local and regional players UC Davis and Coach Gary Stewart have landed of late. It more than the majority of the team.

Remember Marquin Chandler?

Do you recall Marquin Chandler at Newark Memorial High, then George Washington University and a return home to San Jose State?

He played for some time in the Philippines and now has been active in South Korea the past few seasons.

Here's are Chandler-related excerpts from a Korea Times article on this season's Korean Basketball League:

"The [SK] Knights has solidified its lineup, bringing in ... forward Marquin Chandler from Donbgu ... Chandler also showed his strength on the court, with 16.2 points from 54 games in the regular season, and averaged 15 per game in the Promy’s seven playoff games last season. Promy."

The timing seems strange

First, Senque Carey departs last week from his assistant coach position at Fresno State and now St. Mary's Assistant Head Coach David Patrick leaves for a scouting position in the NBA. The moves seem odd -- the timing even stranger, coming just before the start of a new season.

For those who missed it, here's a link to Carey's switch.

Here is an article on Patrick's shift:

Rockets hire David Patrick as scout
Inside Hoops
October 8, 2010

Houston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey announced today that the team has hired David Patrick as a Personnel Scout.

Patrick, who was serving as associate head coach at Saint Mary’s College, joins the Rockets after spending a total of four seasons with the Gaels. He spent his previous three seasons as an assistant coach at Saint Mary’s after working one season as the Director of Basketball Operations. Patrick came to Saint Mary’s from Nicholls State University, where he was an assistant coach for the 2005-06 campaign...

Go here for the remainder.

With Kyle Smith's cross country sojourn to Columbia and now Patrick's, it sure makes it seem Randy Bennett isn't going anywhere.

A Mark Tollefsen feature

Kyle Bonagura offers a feature on San Ramon Valley's Mark Tollefsen committing to USF:

Boys Basketball: SRV's Mark Tollefsen Commits to USF
Kyle Bonagura
Danville Patch
October 13, 2010

San Ramon Valley High senior Mark Tollefsen will continue his basketball career at the University of San Francisco.

The versatile 6-foot-9 forward verbal committed to USF last week after taking an official visit to the campus the previous weekend...

Go here for the remainder.

We're late to this

George Dohrmann won a Pulitzer for his coverage of the Clem Haskins - Minnesota basketball scandal some year ago and now has produced a new book -- eight years in the making -- titled Play Their Hearts Out. It's covers many subjects surrounding the upper level world of AAU/club team basketball

Here is a lengthy excerpt:

Demetrius Walker and his coach, Joe Keller, were at the Rancho Cucamonga (Calif.) Family Sports Center early in 2003 when a young man Demetrius guessed to be about twenty years old entered the gym. Demetrius did not recognize him, but Keller hurried over and they hugged, and he then led the young man to where Demetrius sat lacing his shoes.

"D, this is Keilon," Keller said. "He used to play for Pat [Barrett]. He's going to work out with you."

Demetrius looked at Keilon, more than a little confused. Keilon was a man, with several tattoos on his arms and a chiseled physique. Why is he going to work out with me? Demetrius thought. But he didn't say anything. If Coach Joe wanted him to work out with Keilon, there must be a good reason...

Go here for the remainder.

'Must read' is too often overused but it certainly applies to this book.

Remember Brandon Walker?

Brandon Walker came out of Bishop O'Dowd a while back and headed to Loyola Marymount on a hoops scholarship. A change in head coaches ended that run but he landed on his feet elsewhere and is doing quite well.

Here is the summary of Brandon's junior season with the Alaska Anchorage Seawolves:

2009-10: Garnered First Team All-Great Northwest Athletic Conference and Team MVP honors … led Seawolves with 15.4 points and 0.5 blocks per game, and ranked second in rebounding (5.3 rpg) and field-goal pct. (.509, 96th nationally) … posted GNAC ranks of 6th in scoring, 12th in FG%, 14th in rebounding, 15th in assists (2.4 apg) and 3rd in minutes (34.5 mpg) … one of two Seawolves to start all 27 games … scored in double digits in 22 of last 25 outings, including nine games of 20 or more … earned All-Tournament honors at Carrs/Safeway Great Alaska Shootout after ranking No. 2 in scoring (23.0 ppg) in all-Division I tourney … named Most Outstanding Player of AT&T Jamboree  after leading UAA to wins over Western New Mexico and Chaminade … scored season-high 27 points (8-13 FG, 5-8 3FG, 6-7 FT) in Shootout loss to Pac-10 foe Washington State … earned Carrs/Safeway Player of the Game honors with 21points (8-10 FG, 3-4 3FG), 6 rebounds and 4 assists in victory over Nicholls State … other top outings included 23 points (8-12 FG, 2-2 3FG), 9 rebounds and 2 steals in season-finale victory over 9th-ranked and GNAC champ Seattle Pacific; 23 points (8-16 FG, 7-8 FT) and 9 rebounds in home win over nationally ranked Western Washington; 19 points (8-13 FG), 6 rebounds and 3 assists in home win over Saint Martin’s; and 20 points (5-10 FG, 4-7 3FG, 6-6 FT) in victory over Chaminade … honored at season-ending team banquet with Bob Zundel Rebounders Trophy, awarded to Seawolf who best displays qualities of sportsmanship and leadership toward teammates, coaches, referees, opponents, media and fans … honored by league with GNAC Sportsmanship award ... UAA Athlete of the Year nominee … will enter senior season ranked 29th on UAA career lists for both points (747) and rebounds (310).

Mity's Aaron Gordon is lauded

ESPN's Reggie Rankin offers some love to Aaron Gordon:

"The long, active forward ran the floor well and finished above the rim with authority. Gordon attacked the basket from a variety of angles, hit open mid-range jumpers and when his jumper becomes more consistent watch out. Gordon also rebounds and blocks shots in and out of his area, has a great motor and plays with urgency. He has Stanford, Washington, Kansas, Arizona and Arizona State on his early list."

Watch for Jabari Bird

Check out upcoming (or maybe already there) Jabari Byrd -- wait until that body fills out.

Sonoma State offers an Oregon prepster

Seth Gearhart of the Williamette (OR) Reign club basketball team has an offer from Sonoma State. Rivals lists him as a 6-foot-7, 205 forward out of Wilsonville, OR.

Do you recall Terrence Jennings?

We recall being in attendance at a summer basketball tourney with a pair of team facing off in particular. One roster included Eli Holman and Wendell McKines upfront and the other featured Matt Simpkins and Terrence Jennings. The latter pair were on a team out of Sacramento, if our memory is correct. Lots of physical ability and major potential on display -- some has been realized, some not.

Here's the Draft Express folks -- Kyle Nelson in particular -- with a Jennings evaluation. He is entering his junior year at Louisville under Rick Pitino:

Terrence Jennings, 6-10, Junior, Power Forward/Center, Louisville
5.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, 0.4 assists, 0.7 turnovers, 0.6 steals, 1.3 blocks, 61.7% FG, 55.0% FT

It is safe to say that Terrence Jennings has yet to live up to the massive high school hype that followed him to Louisville. As a freshman and a sophomore, he failed to prove himself as anything other than an intriguing athlete. After an underwhelming stint backing up Samardo Samuels, however, Jennings is projected to start at center and will have the opportunity to earn minutes and to shoulder an expanded role on both ends of the floor.

After all, Jennings had NBA-caliber size and athleticism before he arrived at Louisville. Standing 6'10 with a fantastic 230-pound frame and impressive length, Jennings has the size and athleticism to play either post position at the next level.

For all of Jennings's physical and athletic gifts, however, he has made few strides on the offensive end since arriving at Louisville. He played just 13.2 minutes per game as a sophomore and scored in double figures just three times on his way to a paltry 5.1 points per game...

Go here for the remainder.

Here's a Stephen Domingo interview

Watch for this young man! His upcoming battles with Aaron Gordon will be spectacular.

Questions & Answers w/ 2013 Stephen Domingo
"PoP"
Premier Ball
Oct 8, 2010

Premierball caught up with 2013 6′7 W/F, Stephen Domingo, St. Ignatius College Prep, San Fransico, CA.

Domingo is a pure shooting combo forward that can score from anywhere on the floor.

1. Stephen can you tell us about your game and describe to us who you play like?

I’m a combo forward, built in the mold of Kevin Durant.  I’m tall and lanky, but very athletic and agile and can make plays with my body...

Go here for the remainder.

Jabari Brown to N-I-K-E

Here's a decent report on Jabari Brown's decision to head to the Land of Quack next season. Will he score 20 or 25 points per game as a freshman? He's a talent Coach Dana Altman had to have but how long he has Brown is open to question.

Sac High's Robert Garrett to Santa Clara

Sacramento High 'big' Robert Garrett has gone with Santa Clara -- here's Bill Paterson's report.

Jabari Brown announcing today

"Last night, five-star shooting guard Jabari Brown  entertained Arizona State for an in-home visit on the final day of the evaluation/contact period. As it turns out, he's going to be making a decision very soon.

Rather than visit Georgia Tech this weekend as initially planned, the nation's 22nd ranked player in the class of 2011 will announce his decision live on ESPNU Thursday afternoon.

A physical, 6-foot-5 shooting guard with deep range, Brown confirmed via text that he will be making his choice but wouldn't give any hints as to which way he is leaning.

Initially considered a heavy lean to Washington, sources close to Brown have speculated that he's cooled a bit on the Huskies and could easily select any of his other finalists of Arizona State, Oregon and Connecticut."

John Green to UC Santa Barbara

Currently spending a prep year at Westwind Prep in Phoenix, former Castlemont star John Green has aligned himself with UC Santa Barbara of the Big West Conference, per this Gary Trousdale tweet:

"6-5 Westwind Prep wing John Green committed to UC Santa Barbara today! Congrats.That after a 38pt night in WPI's opening game."

We have signings

Actually, it's verbals and here they are:

* Jaun Anderson, Castro Valley to Marquette

* Mark Tollefson, San Ramon Valley to USF

* Conner McGrath, Serra to Chico State

* JT Adenrele, Oakmont to UC Davis

Here's the Sac Bee on Adenrele.

Nor Cal Preps' Middle School Basketball Camp

Middle School Student Athletes

Get Opportunity  To Learn The Game

Thousands of kids each year dream of becoming a college athlete; most never learn "what it takes" to achieve that dream. For middle school boys who live in Northern California, now that dream can become a reality.

On October 30th & 31st, Nor Cal Preps will offer an Evaluation Camp for Middle School student athletes. The camp will be held El Cerrito High School in El Cerrito. The camp will begin at 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. each day.

It is for Middle School boys in 6th through 8th grade who seek valuable exposure and information on the process.

During this basketball camp all players will compete in four (4) structured games, skill drill sessions, and spend time learning about the educational & psychological requirements of making it as a collegiate athlete.

To register for any of the camps students or parents can go online to:

Nor Cal Preps

For more information or camp specifics, parents or kids can contact the Event Director Carl Foster at (888) 732-8309. Each player will be evaluated by the Scouting Committee from NCP during the camp.

The cost is $110 per player to participate in the event.

Registration information is available online.

Sign up today!!!

Jeremy Russotti's North Bay's Finest event

Jeremy Russotti and his crew have the North Bay's Finest event coming up this weekend -- October 9 and 10. It's worth attending -- even as a spectator -- just to view the skills training portions of the weekend.

Coming October 9th-10th, 1% CLUB Basketball will be organizing the 5th Annual "North Bay's Finest" Instructional showcase for the top 125 players of Sonoma, Marin, Napa, Solano, Humboldt-Del Norte, Lake, and Mendocino counties, respetively. The showcase event will once again involve elite level skill training in the early sessions, followed by evaluated team games in front of lower level college coaches and recruiting analysts in the latter sessions. The cost is $85 if pre-registered before Oct. 8th. Walk up registration cost is $95. This year's event will be held once again at Sonoma State University from 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

The idea for the "The Finest" Showcase events came about by Jeremy Russotti with the vision for a more positive, beneficial, and true grassroots basketball events in areas that were overlooked. Back in 2001-2002, two of Coach Russotti's former players received b-ball scholarships to the PAC-10 Conference. Ironically, both of them were never invited to any local or national so-called "exposure events," overlooked mostly because of the area they resided in. At that point, Russotti knew a quality showcase event could really help draw needed attention to any area, resulting in more recruting resources for top local talent. More importantly, he realized the importance of INSTRUCTIONAL SKILL TRAINING vs EXPOSURE and the impact it had on his player's future recruitments. Therefore, the main focus of the event will be on skill building (6 total hours), with the added bonus of 4-5 games of evaluated team games.

Not only will the event be endorsed by scouting services, but also will include a report written by 1% CLUB Basketball that is emailed to over 1,700 coaches at the D2, NAIA, National JUCO and California JUCO programs (free of charge). Says camp director Jeremy Russotti, "We really take pride in spreading our message about individual skill building and how it can really drive your future recruitment process. The success of Josh Akognon has really come full circle, backing our message that was started five years ago. Also, there is a lot of talent in the North Bay that various colleges or junior colleges never get the chance to see or read about. Furthermore, we want to help bridge these connections, while trying to build intrinsic motivation within our attendee's to the importance of skill building in their daily routines.....and not just playing games."

ESPN's Joel Francisco on some norcal youngsters

Joel Francisco was in attendance at the recent Dinos Trigonis Fullcourt Press Camp for underclassmen and reported on a few northern California ballers:

Aaron Gordon
2013, PF, 6-6, 215 pounds

He was arguably the most dominant player in camp. Gordon has gotten stronger and he possesses intriguing perimeter skills for the next level. His bouncy nature allows him to make plays in traffic at the rim and his passing ability is impressive. In addition, he can stroke the mid-range jump shot at a consistent rate. Whether he ends up at the 3 or the 4 at the next level remains to be seen, but his overall talent is undeniable.

and

Noah Allen (Pacific Grove, Calif./Paloma)
2013, WF, 6-5, 180 pounds

Allen was a virtual unknown coming into this camp, but the smooth wing-type has a feathery looking, effortless jump shot out to 20 feet. He isn't a high-level athlete, but he understands angles and has a great soft touch from all areas of the court. Due to his shooting prowess and basketball IQ it will be interesting to see how he develops in the coming seasons.

and

Jabari Byrd
2013, SG, 6-5, 170 pounds

Byrd may have been the prospect with the most upside at this event. He has that prototypical scoring guard frame and the skills to go along with it. He is extremely explosive in transition and put together a highlight reel of awe-inspiring dunks. He has a legitimate jump shot out to 22 feet and his release is smooth. If he can tighten up his mid-range skills (particularly his handle) and fundamentals (getting on balance) he has the potential to be an upper-tier national level recruit.

A New Hampton Prep preview with lots of Bay Area names

Here's an NERR report on what the New Hampton Prep (New Hampshire) team is looking like so far:

"...Auguste’s running mate along the frontline will be Will Davis, a 6’9” hybrid big man from Sacramento, California who is very mobile and especially athletic.."

and.  

 "...[Travis] Souza may be the most versatile player on the roster. Another high percentage shot maker, the California native can play a variety of different positions and can sneak up and dunk on an unsuspecting defender with his deceptive athleticism..."

Plus, Aaron Hendricks receives a mention as one of the many shooters on the team this season.

John Green, Castlemont High, getting eyed by BC?

Adam Desautels is an assistant coach at Westwind Prep and recently tweeted this:

"Joe Jones from Boston College is here today! Taking a look at John Green and who else we've got down here in Phx!"

Green is doing a prep season at Westwind.

Khion Sankey, Sheridan College

Former Newark Memorial High star Khion Sankey is on scholarship at Sheridan College in Sheridan, Wyoming. Here is the bio for him:

Class: FR
Height: 6'4"
Position: F
Hometown: Stockton, CA
High School: Newark-Memorial HS

High School As one of the best players on his team, Khion averaged 14.3 points, Â 8 rebounds, 2.8 steals, and 2.8 assists per game in leading his team to a 30-5 finish, a Northern California Championship, and a second place finish in the entire state (CIF).in his final year. In his senior season Sankey led his team in points, rebounds, steals, and free throws made. He was also second in assists and three point field goal percentage. Khion has been named First Team All-Northern California, ESPN RISE CalHiSports.com Boys State Athlete of the Week, All-Bay Area Team-Division 1, All-East Bay Basketball First Team, 2009 MaxPreps All-Tournament Team-National Division, San Francisco Chronicle's All Metro 2nd-Team, and Top 125 Easy Bay Prep Athletes of the Year of 2010.

Favorites: Fresh Prince, Martin, Kings, Pizza, Lil wayne, Wale
Nickname: Big Baby Davis

A Max Hooper recruiting update

Former Valley Christian shooter deluxe Max Hooper just returned from an unofficial visit to Minnesota.

Ryan James of the Rivals site Gopher Illustrated has the scoop here (a Rivals sub required) and Hooper is quoted as Oakland, Harvard, Princeton, St. Mary's and Lehigh having offered at this point.

Recruiting for dummies (meaning all of us)

 Here's our shot at least regarding the basic of recruiting:

When it's good, like the girl with the curl, college basketball recruiting produces win-win outcomes for all parties involved. But when it turns bad, embittered feelings, language and actions come to the fore. Is there a righteous path that will guarantee that the former marks the outcome? The answer is no as even Lloyd's of London won't dare insure such a mercurial process. But there are guidelines that suggest, if not predict, mutual success -- here they are.

THE BEGINNING

Recruiting begins with form letters and questionnaires -- mass mailings to a degree -- sent to a prospect. Call it vague interest, a shotgun-type suitorship approach by colleges. It's a nice acknowledgment and an ego boost to be a recipient but these efforts have little or no actual meaning or value in the process

Then eventually comes the handwritten letters, the calls, the texts and the emails as a honing in of sorts. This is a whittling down of possibilities by the coaching staffs to something more manageable. trackable and serious.

Players are followed via open gym play, general camps, elite camps and unofficial campus visits.

Then, alongside high school play, comes the various spring and summer club team tournaments.

A key element here for a prospect is finding an appropriate club team that will meet individual needs. Factors to be considered are:

*  what's the history and reputation with the club and coach? Are players utilized as pawns for payments or for accessing an assistant coach or basketball operations position at the collegiate level?

* what spring and summer tournaments will be played in so as to maximize collegiate exposure?

* are certain players featured/does the mix of players operate as a team or as a showcase for the best on the squad?

* what's the level of the team roster turnover and why?

Additionally, prospects are also discovered by recruiters through word of mouth, professional contacts, cruising the 'net, the ever-burgeoning multitude of recruiting sites and sometimes by luck itself. The latter comes about through catching a previous unknown kid because a recruiter hit the wrong gym, arrived early or stayed late and witnessed an intriguing performance.

Individual prospect profiles are being pieced together all this time consisting of evaluations of work ethic, skills set, contribution projection at the next level, academics, mutual interest, sign-ability, and coach-ability.

Very critical to the process is an ordering of a player's value by a coaching staff. Recruits are ranked as #1, #2, #3, #4 , #5 and so on as 'targets' at each position.

The non in-person contacting remains in place until transforming into actual home visits and official campus visits.

One other action a player can take to increase visibility is putting together a videotape and mailing it out to selective college coaches. The best consist of a demonstration of effort and attitude on the floor, offensive strengths, defensive presence, passing and ballhandling skills and rebounding prowess. A listing of personal contact information (including that of your high school and club team coaches), SAT/ACT scores, grade point average and transcript availability information should be included. A rap soundtrack is not required.

TAKE A PERSONAL INVENTORY

Determine what you want in an educational setting -- is it a big school/small school, a city/suburban/rural school, a certain student/teacher classroom ratio?

Determine the basketball program you wish to join:

* is it an already winning program?

* do you see yourself more in the role of a program changer?

* is signing with the highest-ranked program that offers first and foremost?

* is the possibility for early playing time versus sitting a year or more a factor?

* what coaching style brings out your best -- a Phil Jackson type? Bob Knight? someone in between?

* is parents or relatives coming to home games a factor or not?

ACTUAL OFFERS

Once a formal offer is received, the ball still resides on the courts of both parties.

A player can 'commit' but nothing is 'real' until NCAA official until a letter-of-intent is signed, be it in the November or spring signing periods. A prospect will continue to receive contacts from the verbaled-to coaching staff and realistically other schools will continue making last-minute outreaches gauging the strength of the spoken commitment.

A prospect has the option to wait (for a little or a long while) in order to see what other offers are extended and/or to remain in play until the second basketball recruiting period opens

Some college offers are open-ended with one or both sides elect to letting it 'float' but others come with drop-dead dates in which an answer is required or the offer is rescinded.

The general advice seen most often is to remain open to all offers and interests until a formal decision has been made.

Some prominent factors to consider when deciding include:

* how many years remain on the contracts of the various coaches? are extensions expected? are the current college athletics directors the ones who hired the current coaches in your mix?

* what are the 'rumors' about the basketball programs? have the head coaches been prominently mentioned in conjunction with other positions or considered under fire?

* do the head coaches have a history of oversigning recruits and ultimately running off the ones no longer preferred as some are well known to be run-off coaches, whether it be a situation of a player not evolving as projected or a transfer becoming available who is perceived to be better or a recruiting target thought 'lost' or 'unreachable' expresses or renews interest.

* what's the focus of the each recruiting pitch? is a coach negatively recruiting or promoting the best of his school and program?

* does a specific scholarship offer also include tuition costs for a fifth year?

* how many, if any, scholarships are available? -- some schools wish to convince players to come as a  walk-on but want a recruit on campus before broaching this subject

AFTER DECIDING

Obviously, call the 'winning' head coach first with your acceptance of a scholarship offer but then also call each coach in your finals list of schools and thank them for the opportunity.

RETRACTING

Remember, college sports are a business, with a yearly scholarship renewal -- or not. There should be a mandatory tattoo required on the arm of each frosh to serve as a visible remainder of this etched-in-granite fact as all isn't little chocolates placed on your pillow each night after you arrive as a freshman on campus. This relationship can quickly evolve into a vituperous divorce the second it stops working for either party.

Hopefully, all the homework done will lead to for a successful and positive college and basketball program experience. But all is not lost if that doesn't transpire -- just learn from the experience and carefully repeat the guidelines and process.

Aaron Gordon

It appears right now that the 'Beast of the Bay' in the very, very near future), will come down to Mitty's Aaron Gordon and Bishop O'Dowd's Brandon Ashley.

Here's the Ball Is Life crew raving about Gordon:

* Hit their Twitter account here. 

* A brief tape involving a play nearing the end of a game.

From the wonderful world of recruiting...

Here's a fascinating article on how the world of recruiting often works. We're not trying to be negative -- it's just imperative that recruits and their parents absolutely understand that it's a business, nothing else. Arizona is not doing 'wrong here -- Coach Sean Miller is simply covering his bets.

Arizona Wildcats loaded in recruiting, pushing the limit with other Pac-10 schools
Bruce Pascoe
Arizona Daily Star
October 3, 2010

When Sacramento guard Josiah Turner announced last month he would play basketball for the Arizona Wildcats, coach Sean Miller suddenly had his highest-ranked recruit yet and a top-10 recruiting class for 2011.

Now Miller just has to figure out where to put everybody.

On paper for 2011-12, the Wildcats have 14 scholarship players but only 12 scholarships to offer. This season, they have 13 players on scholarship (counting guard Dondre Wise, whose conditional scholarship is not likely to be renewed) and are only certain to lose senior Jamelle Horne.

Arizona also has three commitments from high school seniors for 2011-12 — from Turner, guard Nick Johnson and forward Sidiki Johnson — and the Wildcats can offer only 12 total scholarships in 2011-12 and 2012-13 because of NCAA sanctions.

That makes the math 13 minus 2 (Horne, Wise) plus 3 (recruits) equals 14. Not 12...

Go here for the remainder.

A Robert Garrett recruiting update

Bill Paterson of the Sac Bee offers an update on Sac High's Robert Garrett's college plans -- go here.

Juan Anderson and Jabari Brown visit updates

Rivals posted this in an article about visits taking place:

"Arizona State: Juan Anderson, Jabari Brown (Tuesday and Wednesday)"

Anderson has visited Oregon and I think a trip to Marquette has taken place so a decison may be coming soon.

Juan and Jabari are friends so it's surprising they won't be in Tempe together. 

UCSB - Bay Area South

As we have been writing, UC Santa Barbara has a more than solid recruiting pipeline to the Bay Area and northern California. Gaucho basketball is covered by this blog and here are some recent posts on vari9ous Santa Barbara players: Orlando Johnson, James Nunnally, Will Brew, Justin Joyner.

Play Hard Play Smart players generating college recruiting interest

The Sac Bee's Bill Paterson checked in with Brian Hamilton of the Play Hard Play Smart club basketball team on the recruiting interest in various PHPS prospects -- go here.