Jacob Noisat and Nevada

Chris Murray, the Nevada athletics beat reporter for the Reno Journal Gazette, has a notes column up containing this item:

"...While [Coach David] Carter is not allowed to comment on recruitable athletes, multiple sources say the Pack is looking to bring a pair of recruits to town in the coming weeks.

The first is 6-foot-8, 225-pound forward Jacob Noisat, who averaged 9.3 points (on 58 percent shooting) and 7.6 rebounds for Chabot College in Hayward, Calif., last season. The junior-college transfer has two years of eligibility..."

Noisat prepped at Elsie Allen High in Santa Rosa and then played a season at Cal State East Bay before transferring to Chabot College as a sophomore. 

Checking in on Justin Brue

Justin Brue has been at UC San Diego for two years now after graduating from Bishop O'Dowd High. This past season, he averaged 9.2 point and 4.9 rebounds a game in 28 games (all starts). He also led the Tritons in blocked shots with 24.

Plus, his major is Structural Engineering.

The winners and MVPs of the First Annual Bay Area Memorial Day Classic

Gerry Freitas' First Annual Bay Area Memorial Day Classic is in the books with a quartet of divisional winners:

Varsity Red Division: Team 94 58, Emerald City Pioneers 54
MVP: MacKenzie Moore, Team 94

Varsity White Division: Oakland Kings 67, Oakland Rebels 16’s 62
MVP: Matthew Jajeh, Oakland Kings

Blue (Junior Varsity) Division: Spirit Got Game 55, ESA Renegades 50
MVP: Devin Soderberg, Spirit Got Game

Junior High Division: 707’s Finest 57, Spirit Got Game 56
MVP: Chandler Stone, 707’s Finest

Mel Grussing on a critical element for prep players

At his Antelope Valley College site, Mel Grussing has an article up today that is spot on. You can't reach your potential as a player unless you are physically competitive.

Alan Stein on basketball politics

Trainer Alan Stein has an interesting column up on basketball politics.You may not agree with everything he writes but you'll learn something which is the baseline of any activity.

It won't happen but forget all the labels and associations and go with the individuals who have the best interests of the kids foremost in mind. Human being aren't commodities.

DA gets some ESPN love

ESPN's Joel Francisco tweets some love for Dom Artis. Good to see someone extend beyond bluechippers Ashley and Gordon and notice the conductor.

Who is this?

Don't know at what age this photo was taken but I had no idea which northern California basketball player this is? I would be a terrible illustrator at estimating what people will look like as they age.

Not northern California related...

Ben Bolch of the Los Angeles Times has an article up today on the transfers of Larry Drew plus David and Travis Wear from North Carolina to UCLA. The Drew departure is the most interesting because of its timing.

Not knowing anyone in the equation of the three players and the two schools nor having any wish to personally bash any of the individuals involved, it's fairly easy to conclude in Drew's case that he lost his starting spot because the Tarheels performed more effectively as a team with Kendall Marshall at the point. Drew's playing time was going to diminish because he had been surpassed. But it's still unusual for one of power teams like North Carolina to lose someone during mid-season.

What is surprising, to a degree, is the interest in Drew by UCLA. The Bruins have obviously experienced problems with point guard play recently but is Larry Drew the answer, even on a short term basis? Drew wasn't Ty Lawson (nor should there have been any expectations of such) while in Chapel Hill but is he someone who can play the point for a serious championship contender? Maybe, if surrounded by a certain level of talent and if asked to do what he is capable of achieving. He isn't going to create for teammates (which is not a knock but simply a realistic assessment).

As for the Wears, they aren't starters on a championship caliber squad. In the rotation, obviously yes but neither will be bangers of any sort, Coach Ben Howland's favorite style of frontcourter. But like Drew, if expected to be contributors to the degree their basketball and physical skills allow, then all will be copacetic.

Another question, one that will have to remain unanswered, is what did Coach Roy Williams see in the trio that made him comfortable with extending scholarship offers? Reiterating that this is not to denigrate anyone but NC can usually attract talents with higher level ceilings of potential.

A Richard Longrus update

Here's one of the latest tweets from Josh Gershon:

"Bay Area forward Richard Longrus was recently offered by Gonzaga"

The Soldiers are down In southern California

At the PointGuardU site, two of the writers -- Ace Thakore and AK Murthy -- offer an update on the EYBL event in southern California and it's loaded with Soldiers information. They make it sound like Point GuardU (Arizona) will soon be re-named SoldiersU.

Plus, Josh Gershon has a number of tweets about the Soldiers, here and here and here and here.

Soldiers getting more national notice

Eric Bossi of Rivals wrote the following in an article today:

Dominic Artis, PG, Oakland Soldiers- The Soldiers feature an embarrassment of riches and athleticism on the wing and interior. However, it's the tiniest of the bunch who is the most important. The 6-footer keeps coming at opponents and willingly shares the rock on a team loaded with guys who need touches.

Aaron Gordon, SF/PF, Oakland Soldiers- Quiet early against Each One Teach One, Gordon took over on the interior late. Always in attack mode, the freak athlete can get to the rim at will whether attacking off the dribble or posting up. He also gets to the free throw line a ton and the 2013 five-star was converting at a high rate on his charity shots.

An early June Jeremy Russotti basketball clinic

Jeremy Russotti is holding a basketball clinic for middle to high school level players at Whitney High School (in Rocklin) on June 4 from 11a.m. - 2 p.m.  

There are 10 open spots for those who want to join the Offensive Skills Clinic. The cost is only $40. 

To guarantee yourself a spot, call (707) 849-1212.  

An Adrian Oliver update

Justin Rogers at the MichiganLive site is reporting that former San Jose State and Modesto Christian star backcourter Adrian Oliver recently worked out before the braintrust of the Detroit Pistons.

Prior to that, Oliver was brought in by the Washington Wizards.

Quincy Hill heads south

Former McClymonds High and San Jose City College backcourter Quincy Hill (you will need to scroll down a bit) is a peach of a guard and he's confirmed that by signing with Coach Michael Cooney and the University of West Georgia basketball program.

The 5-foot-11 Hill is joining a squad which is a member of the Gulf South Conference.

Da'Ron Sims, out of CCSF and also a former Mack star was the leading scorer for West Georgia this past season.

Ohlone's Lavon (Bellarmine College Prep) Gray signed there earlier.

Dominique Lee leaving Utah

Dom Lee finished up at St. Mary's High last year, signed with Utah and redshirted this season.

After a recent head coaching change, Dom is departing from the Utes program. Not sure yet about his new destination.

Youth sports -- the good, bad and ugly

Bob Padecky writes about youth sports today, specifically a pair of new books on the subject.

If you see yourself in what is described, then change and get on the right side with the proper perspective.

If you don't see yourself in what is described, ask someone you trust will tell you the truth. Then, if needed, change.

It's about and for the kids, period.

Brian Shaw leaving the Lakers?

It appears suspiciously political (gosh what isn't) but Mike Brown's hiring as Phil Jackson's replacement as the head coach of the Lakers apparently means Oakland native Brian Shaw will be departing the organization.

J.A. Adande offers a column on the doings in Laker land.

We'll keep you posted on where Shaw touches down next. How about Golden State?

Checking in on Tim Harris

Tim Harris was a star West Catholic Athletic League player at Valley Christian High two years ago for Coach Steve Cotton and then headed up to Randy Bennett's St. Mary's program after graduation.

As a Gael, Harris has been bitten by the injury bug for two straight seasons.

In his freshman go-around, a right hamstring injury sidelined him and he was granted a redshirt exemption.

In 2010-11, it was a left wrist ligament injury that put him in drydock for the first half of the schedule and then a late-season appendectomy closed out his court prospects for the year.

So what does this coming season offer for Harris?

Hopefully, robust health for one. Point Mickey McConnell has graduated probably to be replaced by 5-foot-11 SMU transfer Paul McCoy. 6-foot-4 Matthew Dellavedova returns as a starter as does sophomore-to-be Stephen Holt, also at 6-foot-4. Prep Mckenzie Moore is a possibility, contingent on passing his SAT.

So that leaves a playing time opening for the high-jumping and very quick Harris as his physical assets and skills set isn't duplicated by any other backcourter on the roster.

San Francisco Rebels June tournament

It’s That Time Again!

The 15th Annual SF Rebels        
REBEL RUMBLE
June 18 – 19 2011    
Boys 10u-Varsity
Girls 14u- Varsity
  
Sign up online at www.sfrebels.org
                                 
Guaranteed 3 games   
                                 
First 2 teams in each age division will pay only $200.00 
After $300.00          
                            
SF REBELS 
1950 PAGE ST
SF CA. 94117
For more information contact:

Nate Ford at (415) 445-5487 or nford@kidsclub.org

Damian Lillard adds a year of eligiblity

Weber State star Damian Lillard was just awarded his junior season of eligibility back. The former Oakland High star injured his foot early in the season.

The Crossover

Head here (New York Times video) to learn about the history of The Crossover (us leadfooters should demand that quickness be outlawed).

More on Josiah Turner

Jim Basnight usually writes about Washington Huskies basketball but also covers PAC-12 basketball. He offered some intriguing items about former Sac High star backcourter Josiah Turner in his Tuesday, May 24 Pac-12 Roundup:

"...First is the ongoing NCAA investigation of his fishy eligibility situation..."

The entire column is worthwhile reading, as are the sections on Turner. Go here and scroll down to the entry of 4:57 p.m.

A Desmond Simmons update

Desmond Simmons redshirted due to injury last season at Washington. At The Husky Haul site, Mark Knight serves up an interview with the former Salesian High star.

This is a must read

True Hoop's Henry Abbott offers an intriguing article about the debate over European and NBA skill sets. There are lies, damn lies and statistics but the numbers here look convincing.

Jason Kidd wrote this 20 years ago

As a high school senior, Jason Kidd penned this. How the heck is he still so productive at his age?

Tulare's David Love to SF State

In addition to Robbie Herndon, Tulare Union's David Love is going to be a Gator -- Andrew Bettencourt has the details.

Chico State basketball announces a signing

 Sweet-shooting Staniland signs with Wildcats
Transfer from Azusa Pacific brings size and shot-making ability to roster
Luke Reid, Chico State SID
5/23/2011

The Chico State men’s basketball team has announced the addition of some size and sweet shooting in the form of James Staniland. The 6-foot-7 transfer from Azusa Pacific University has committed to Chico State, where he’ll spend his last two seasons of eligibility.

Staniland, a reserve for the last two seasons at APU, was a prolific prep 3-point shooter at Ventura High School where he knocked down 145 treys at a 47-percent clip over his last two seasons. He earned consecutive All-Ventura County and All-Channel League honors and finished his prep career among Ventura County's all-time top ten in scoring (1,233 points) and 3-pointers made (184). He’s the No. 2 all-time scorer at Ventura High, trailing only older brother Jeff.

“James is a phenomenal perimeter shooter and with his size has the versatility to play a couple of different positions,” said Wildcats Head Coach Greg Clink. “He has played college basketball at a very high level and we are counting on him to step in and make a great contribution. We’re delighted that he’s a Wildcat.”

A key reserve at APU, Staniland averaged 4.3 points per game, starting once and seeing action in 37 of 38 contests. He averaged 3.0 points in 21 games of action last season. Staniland knocked down 51 3-pointers over those two seasons while shooting 89 percent from the free throw line (33-of-37).

Staniland was also a standout baseball player (pitcher) at Ventura High, earning First Team All-Channel League and Second Team all-county recognition as a senior after fashioning a 10-3 record with a 1.90 ERA.

He’ll be looked upon to help the Wildcats make a pitch for an NCAA Championship Tournament berth in 2011-12. Staniland is the third player to commit to Head Coach Greg Clink’s squad for 2011-12, joining preps Connor McGrath and Chris Magalotti, who signed National Letters of Intents during last November’s early signing period. McGrath, the San Mateo County Player of the Year, is Serra High School’s all-time assists leader with 293. The 6-foot-10 Magalotti blocked 101 shots this season as a senior at St. Mary’s of Stockton.

Staniland, Magalotti and McGrath will join forces with an exciting class of four freshmen who redshirted last season and nine returners who led the Wildcats to their second straight postseason appearance in 2010-11.

Remember Max Hooper?

Max Hooper played for Coach Steve Cotton at Valley Christian High in San Jose before moving south to Mater Dei as a senior, followed by a prep year at Bridgton Academy in New Hampshire.

Last October, Hooper committed to Coach Tommy Amaker and Harvard.

He recently participated in a tournament in New York City and people took notice as Adam Zagoria writes.

The new Novato High basketball coach

Dave Curtis has the details on the new boys basketball coach at Novato High.

Two Sac City players head to the islands

Saw this in the Honolulu Star Advertiser:

Hawaii-Hilo signs 2 hoops players

Two Sacramento City College players will join Hawaii-Hilo for next season, according to coach Jeff Law.

C.J. Brown, a 6-foot-2 point guard, averaged 5.2 assists and 7.8 points last season.

Kiel Myers, a 6-8 wing, averaged 15.8 points and 6.6 rebounds.

Here's a report, including video, from the HH athletics site. Brown is out of Kennedy High and Myers from Valley High, both in the Sacto area. Andrew Jones is the SCC coach.

The Vulcans are coached by Jeff Law and finished 16-11/6-6 in the Pacific West Conference last season. Academy of Art and Dominican University are league members so family will have the opportunity to see Brown and Myers play.

Point Andrew (Salesian High) Gipson is graduating, hence the need for Brown.

Additionally regarding other northern California prepsters, 7-foot center Josh (Pleasant Valley High/Yuba College) Figueroa returns to Hawaii-Hilo for his senior season.

Jason Silsdorf moves on

Talked with Chabot Coach Denny Aye today and got word about Jason Silsdorf's signing and also then noticed the following update at the Chabot College men's basketball site:

Jason Silsdorf signs scholarship to Sonoma State!
5/19/11

Chabot sophomore 6'11" power forward Jason Silsdorf has officially signed to Sonoma State. Jason had a solid career at Chabot, and was a redshirt sophomore. Jason played 2008-09, then sat out to get stronger in 2009-10, and finished his Chabot career this past 2010-11 season. His freshman season Jason shot 65% from the field, and 75% from the free throw line while averaging 2 points, and 1.5 rebounds. Though his stats aren't impressive, Jason was behind 3 D-1 caliber post players. Jason came off the bench to help on defense with his shot blocking, high energy and leadership. The Gladiators are proud of Jason for his work in the classroom and on the court. Jason is the second Gladiator to sign a scholarship this season. Four more Gladiators are expected to sign scholarships in the coming weeks!

Pat Fuscaldo heads the Sonoma State program. The Seawolves went 11-15 overall, 9-13 in conference last season and are losing 6-foot-7 James French. 6-foot-8 Cody Brice redshirted last season for SSU so he and Silsdorf will man the middle in 2011-12.

A thoughtful article on one who didn't make it

I didn't know who the subject in the following story is let alone his background and storyline but here's hoping he finds happiness and satisfaction in his life.

We have a tendency to simplistically label individuals in life and that certainly applies in matters related to the sports world. See someone tall = gotta be a basketball player. Wide = probably football.

But we too often fail to see who the actual individual is beyond any sports-related facade. I don't know what passions Chris Marcus has but it wasn't basketball and there is nothing wrong with that. He needed a mentor/friend who could help and support him in developing himself as an individual, unrelated to what he could do or become on the basketball court.

More on Josiah Turner

Josiah Turner keeps impressing on the court.

Chico State basketball Strongman competiton

Luke Reid, the Chico State SID, offers the results of the Strongman competition featuring members of the Chico State men's basketball team. The on-court firm of Appel (left)and Lovisolo (right), De la Salle High and Del Oro High alums respectively, took top honors.

3 D-1 transfers coming from Yuba

Coach Doug Cornelius has three D-1 transfers to date out of his 2010-11 squad: Julian Scott, Mike McChristian and Julian Welch. Plus, Spencer Butterfield could have gone D-1 had he chosen not to return for his sophomore season.

This is a pretty remarkable feat.

A Josiah Turner feature

Adam Zagoria writes about Josiah Turner, including some quotes. It sure sounds like Turner will be eligible.

Allen Huddleston writes that he hasn't signed with BC

Former Merced High and Pacific backcourter Allen Huddleston has tweeted that a decision as to his next school has yet to be made. He doesn't indicate if Boston College is still a possibility or not.

Robert Duncan makes his decision

Granite Bay High senior backcourter Robert Duncan had made his college decision. He will attend the Air Force Academy prep school in 2011-12 in order to prepare for acceptance into the Air Force Academy the following school year.

Here is what he can expect athletically:

"The four top-tier sports at the Academy -- football, men's and women's basketball and volleyball -- are also priority sports at the Prep School, where students spend 10 months undergoing athletic development. Academy coaches use the Prep School as a place to build future athletes by engaging them in a competitive arena militarily, academically and athletically to prepare them for NCAA-level competition."

Here's more.

There is a history of military service in the Duncan family and Robert's decision furthers that patriotic lineage.

Jose Rivera to Cal State San Marcos

Jose Rivera, who prepped at De La Salle High and then spent two years at Citrus College in southern California, has transferred from Pacific to Cal State San Marcos for his senior season. Here is his bio at the Pacific athletics site.

Rivera will be playing for Jim Saia, a San Francisco native, who is starting up the basketball program.

An invitation from Jeremy Russotti

Direct from Jeremy Russotti:

1% CLUB Basketball is currently looking for interns for the summer and fall seasons. Duties would include the following:

• Working as an intern for our Professional Green Room Training Program. 

• Working in one of our nine K-12th Grade Training Programs in NorCal. We will be launching another five in NorCal next fall, and six more outside of California.  

• Working the J-Glove Products booth at the Coaches Associations that I will be speaking at next fall.

• Travel as my assistant for skill clinics.

• Working at one of our Showcase Events in the fall, working a wide variety of duties.

*** We can provide contact info from our last years interns as a reference in how we help and develop our interns. As our company goes, we are really looking for that special, top notch trainer who is willing to travel, study hard, and become a part of 1% CLUB Basketball long-term (travel trainer, chapter trainer, professional training program trainer, etc).

Please send resume to me at info@jglove.com

Here's where I come down on this

I've never understood why cursing and yelling at a subordinate is acceptable behavior, in any setting. Behavioral therapists will say that such behavior won't produce a desired change. Plus, the yeller doesn't generally take it too kindly if/when the behavioral tables are reversed. Sure, everyone loses his or her temper at times but that's another context.

The coach - player relationship in any sport is no different. Yes, players make mistakes, as do coaches. But name a screamer who invites his staff and players to yell at him when he errs. Ohhhh, that's different.

Give me Brad Stevens, you can keep Frank Martin.

We missed this Tim Keown-penned article from back in November. It's worth a read.

This is interesting regarding Josiah Turner

Jim Basnight, with solid basketball bonafides in his background, writes a blog covering Washington hoops as well as PAC-12 basketball. He recently offered this in relation to PAC-12 NBA draft prospects after next season, about former Sac High star Josiah Turner who is heading to Arizona:

"...Turner is headed to the NBA draft more than likely, whether or not he gets into school with his academic problems. If he does have problems qualifying, that could be very damaging to 'Zona's chances to stay in contention for the Pac-12 title and another tournament shot..."

The 'situation' regarding Turner's academics has been out there for a while but without substantiation because only the Turner family Arizona officials and probably some at Sac High know the reality.

But his January move to a prep school in North Carolina lends credence to the rumor although the NCAA is certainly going to pore over any of Turner's Quality Education Academy academic achievements
.

Orlando Johnson receives two prominent invites

Former Palma High basketball star Orlando Johnson, soon to be entering his senior season at UC Santa Barbara, has received a pair of entreaties that should result in his greater recognition.

More on the SanFranPreps fundraising

From SanFranPreps editor Jeremy Balan:

"Got some pretty unbelievable news today... Every donation will now be matched by a donor who would like to remain anonymous, up to $30,000...

Please head here if you can make a contribution. There is a PayPal button on the lower left of that page

You can reach Jeremy at jbalan@sanfranpreps.com and 415-251-0918.

Early commits

Don't know why preps 'commit' two or three years prior to when it can be made official but here's another one, albeit in southern California, with the usual outcome:

MD's Reinhardt decommits from USC
Steve Fryer
Orange County Register
May 17, 2011

Mater Dei junior Katin Reinhardt has withdrawn his commitment to USC, his father Ernie confirmed tonight.

Reinhardt, a 6-5 guard who has strong offensive skills now and looks like the type of player who will improve a great deal more, made the decision a couple of weeks ago and told USC coach Kevin O'Neill of his decision today...

Go here for the remainder.

Reinhardt is not a Kevin O'Neill-type player -- not a lot of guys are. It's interesting that O'Neill has crossed Reinhardt off his list as a number of coaches decide to stay in the running regardless but the gut says Reinhardt was never going to re-affirm his Trojan commitment period.

Jack Fertig has a timely column out today

Jack Fertig's post today (do bookmark him and check in daily) is so spot on -- why has the jump shot followed by shooting or passing or the mid-range jumper disappeared from youth basketball?

Franklin's Ikenna Iroegbu is heading east

Joel Francisco is reporting that Ikenna Iroegbu, the Franklin High 2013 point, is transferring to fabled Oak Hill Academy in Virginia. Not sure what is behind this move but the challenge and the exposure will be much better

Checking in on Chase Tapley

Chase Tapley came out of Sacramento High a couple of years back and decided San Diego State of the Mountain West Conference was the college and basketball program for him. After a 34-3 ride this season and a three game stretch in the Big Dance, it's apparent he made a wise decision.

In 2010-11, he averaged 8.6 points per game on 49% overall shooting, 38% from long distance. Tapley also passed for 64 assists and nabbed 44 steals, the latter second on the team.

The Aztecs are losing four starters (Kawhi Leonard, Billy White, D.J. Gay and Malcolm Thomas) so Coach Steve Fisher will be looking for leadership from his junior-to-be, the lone returnee with substantial playing time and experience.

A feature on Booker Harris

Theo Fightmaster serves up a solid look at Booker Harris, the new men's basketball coach at Dominican University.

Jim Loscutoff to be lauded

Are there enforcers any more in the NBA?

John Horgan writes about an honor coming former NBA-er and Bay Area basketball star Jim Loscutoff's way.

Dominican names a new coach

Dominican University has named Booker Harris as the new head coach of the men's basketball team. Congratulations to the Bay Area native who also played at USF.

The Oakland Kings nab another championship

Kings win Nor Cal Tournament – Qualify for AAU National Tournament in Orlando, Florida

The Oakland Kings won the 16U Division 1 of Pacific AAU National Qualifier May 15, 2011 in Folsom, CA. The Kings went undefeated (4-0) over two days of play facing AAU travel teams from Northern California. The Kings defeated the Bay Area Bulls in the final game to take the championship.

The Kings will travel to Orlando, Florida to compete for the National AAU Championship July 24-30, 2011.

The Oakland Kings are one of the best AAU basketball teams in Northern California. The Kings roster is made up of mostly underclassmen from some of the finest high school basketball teams in the bay area. They are coached by former Fresno State standout and professional basketball player Darnell McCulloch.

Here's the Facebook page for the Kings.

Shining a light on some of the Hawaii Pacific players

Hawaii Pacific plays in the D2 Pacific West Conference and currently features sophomore Kyle Allen (Sacramento High), senior Royal Edwards (Capital Christian High), junior Adrian den Dulk (Ripon Christian High) and junior Keenan Prince (Marysville High) as former northern California ballers on the roster. Here are their contributions this past season:

* Edwards averaged 9.7 points and 5.4 rebounds a game

* Allen put up 9.5 and 5.8 numbers

* den Dulk finished at 7.3 and 3.4

* Prince contributed 4.5 points per contest

Help out the SanFranPreps folks

Please consider extending some financial support to the folks behind the SanFranPreps site -- they do a marvelous job at bringing the players, coaches and teams in The City to the attention of others and nobody else is even in the same universe at doing such.

Marcellus Clay to Ohlone College

Mr. Invisible this past season and someone who would have brought much needed height to Oakland High, Marcellus Clay, has made the decision to play for Coach John Peterson at Ohlone College.

Unfortunately the question can now never be answered, that being how much further could the Wildcats have advanced with the 6-foot-7 Clay in the middle?

This move isn't based on academics but because Clay was forced to sit out his senior season after transferring from Skyline High. Not being able to display his wares obviously limited his visibility so a season of community college ball will catapult him back into the process.

Clay played club team ball for the Oakland Rebels and the Bay Area Warriors, under Coach Raymond Young.

An article on IU Coach Tom Crean

From the Oversigning site,comes an article about how (Indiana Coach Tom Crean seemingly will have to cut a player or some players he signed in order to have scholarships available for higher potential recruits.

Some see this as a black-and-white issue, others view shades of gray in it. Another opinion is that the need to win forces a coach's decision.

It is a solid test of a person's values in a profession that at least at the higher levels requires W-L success.

Do read the article and also the comments following it.

What's also worth noting is the incoming ordnance now Detroit Titan Eli Holman endured after his widely reported meeting with Crean a few of years back..

Here's one early report (notice the four words highlighted in black).

Here's the link that tells the truth.

An orchestrated transfer or not, when a player says he wants to leave, so be it. Call up and ream out the orchestrator. Then move on. Coaches move on -- as Crean exemplified when he left 'his' players behind at Marquette upon taking the Indiana job.

Let's see if Crean 'encourages' some movement among his current squad, or not.

Inside Bay Area lauds top East Bay talents

Inside Bay Area has selected its East Bay Prep Athletes of the year and these are the basketballers chosen:

* Juan Anderson
* Dom Artis
* Brandon Ashley
* Jabari Bird
* Paul Blackburn
* Roderick Bobbitt
* Jabari Brown
* Matt Butler
* Treaven Duffy
* Noel Frazier
* Jordan Giusti
* James Harris
* Brendan Keane
* Travis Pacos
* Anthony Piganelli
* Freddie Tagaloa
* T.J. Taylor.

Not having Mark Tollefsen is a real surprise. Robbie Herndon too.

New article on Dom Artis

Don't know the basketball background of Zach Herring but he has very high praise for Dom Artis in a piece at the Bleacher Report site. Enjoy.

Chris Read to Ohlone

Castro Valley High and Lakeshow player Chris Read is headed to Coach John Peterson and Ohlone College. Read averaged 13.4 points and 7.4 rebounds a game playing for Coach Nick Jones on a Trojans squad that finished 30-2. Castro Valley fell 49-43 to state runnerup De La Salle High in the playoffs.

Here's a Yayareasfinest mixtape consisting of Read's senior season highlights.

The Renegades were 16-12 overall, 7-5 in Coast Conference North play last season.

This will be a good opportunity for Chris to get his academics in order as well as to develop a standout skill, whether it be a mid-range jumper, a dribble-drive offensive game or as a lockdown defender (of which he certainly has the physical prerequisites to do so).

So you wanna be a college coach?

It's not nor cal basketball-related but a very good read: SI's Bruce Schoenfeld offers a lengthy feature on the 'glamorous' life of a college basketball assistant, in this case Washington's Raphael Chillious.

Kiwi Gardner signs

Came across two articles today here and here about Kiwi signing his letter-of-intent with Providence. Friar fans are in for a treat.

An update on the E Time Hoops Academy seniors

Coach Ernest Taubodo sent along updates on his E Time Hoops Academy seniors. Note that everyone is headed to college plus the majors being selected. A hearty congratulations goes out to all involved in making these achievements happen.

John Timothy Adenrele:   JT will attend UC Davis on scholarship and will pursue a major in engineering.

Devin Crisosto:  Devin will attend Feather River College in Quincy, and will play for Coach Randy Rick.

Jonathan Davis:  Jon will attend Cal-Poly San Luis Obispo as a full time student and will pursue a degree in biomedical engineering.

Robert Duncan:  Robert will attend the Air Force Academy prep school for a year in preparation to join the Air Force Academy in August, 2012.

Joe Eyen:  Joe will attend Pomona-Pitzer College and will play for Coach Katsiaficas as a Sagehens.       

James Geyer:  Jamie will attend California-Berkeley as a full time student and will pursue a degree in business/pre-law.

Chad Haysbert:  Chad will attend Houston Baptist College on scholarship and will pursue a major in business.

Devin Murphy:  Devin will attend Sierra Junior College as a student/athlete and will play for Coach John Fusano.

Daniel Smith: Daniel will attend Cal-State East Bay as a full time student and will pursue a degree in business/fashion.

Richard Longrus chosen

Cali High Sports has selected Bishop O'Dowd frontcourter Richard Longrus as its 12th best California prospect in the 2012 class.

The best players this past season in CA

The Cal-Hi Sports folks have selected their first, second and third team all-state honorees.

Rodney Bobbitt, Jabari Brown, Aaron Gordon and Darius Nelson made the top squad (out of 10 picks), Brandon Ashley and Stuart Wesonga nabbed second team honors (again out of 10) with Jabari Bird, Robert Garrett and Travis Pacos earning spots on the third group (again out of 10).

Kiwi Gardner featured

Jason Jones at ESPNRise has posted a feature on height in basketball and former Manteca High star Kiwi Gardner is featured in it.

An interview with Wendell McKines

Jason Groves of the Las Cruces Sun-News has posted an interview article with Wendell McKines, the former Richmond High star who is entering his senior season at New Mexico State.

Brian Shaw to interview with Golden State

Here's Marcus Thompson on the Golden State Warrior interest in Laker assistant Brian Shaw, born and bred in Oakland.

Josh Gershon lauds some 2013 Nor Cal ballers

In this Josh Gershon piece on the top prep players for 2013, northern California is repped by Aaron Gordon and Jabari Bird with Stephen Domingo and Ikenna Iroegbu mentioned as possible future inclusions.

More press for Jared Cunningham

Here is Eric Angevine writing about Oregon State hoops and how Jared Cunningham will be the Moses of Beaver basketball next season.

You can hear the game announcer already: "The Beavers went to Jared..."

Collin Chiverton makies the call

This location is a bit surprising but a good destination because the situation will play to the strengths of CCSF's Collin Chiverton.

Jonathan Metzger-Jones to Montana

Former Bishop O'Dowd star Jonathan Metzger-Jones has landed an assistant coaching position at Montana, moving from UC Santa Barbara.

Brandon Ashley and Brendan Keane nab divisional honors

Cal-Hi Sports has selected it's divisional players of the year and all state honorees.

A lengthy feature on Brian Shaw

Brian Shaw, one of the prides of Oakland and someone who may be the next coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, is featured in this article by ESPN's Arash Markazi. Have some tissue handy.

Checking in on Greg Somoygi

7-foot-3 junior Greg Somoygi came out of Woodside Priory three years ago as a foreign exchange student and decided to remain in the Golden State while heading south to UC Santa Barbara.

Breaking down his seasonal output to date:

* played in all 31 games as a frosh with five starts, averaging 3.6 points and 1.2 blocks per contest

* as a sophomore, he put up 2.5 points, 2.7 boards and 1.4 shotblocks a game, participating in 28 games with one start

* his junior go-around produced six starts in 32 contests in which he averaged just over 14 minutes a game plus 4.6 points, 3.1 rebounds and 61 rejections

The Gauchos are losing a senior big so look for Somoygi's PT to jump in the 2011-2012 season.

Checking in on Lucas Devenny

6-foot-9 Lucas Devenny was a force in the middle for Santa Rosa's Piner High two years ago and ultimately decided to play for Coach Bob Williams at UC Santa Barbara.

In his freshman, he played in 26 of 30 games and averaged 1.3 points plus 1.7 rebounds per outing.

This past season, Devenny had two starts while participating in 24 of 32 contests, averaging 0.5 points and 1.2 boards in just under seven minutes a game.

His competition:

6-foot-9 freshman Jaime Serna made 19 starts in 26 games, averaging 20 minutes of court time.

7-foot-3 junior Greg Somoygi (out of Woodside Priory) enjoyed six starts in 32 contests, averaging just over 14 minutes a game.

6-foot-10 senior Jon Pastorek made it on to the court all 32 games, starting 14 and averaging 21 minutes each outing.

The latter is graduating so there certainly is an opening available for increased PT. Hopefully, Devenny will seize the opportunity

In the meantime, he's enjoyed two consecutive trips to the Big Dance.

By the way, Bay Area talents John Green and T.J. Taylor are heading to Isla Vista next season.

Is college hoops going backwards?

hiphopopotamus at RockChalkTalk.com offers some interesting insights on college and professional basketball. Here are a few cut-n-pastes from his piece:

''The overall talent level has increased, but the level of play doesn't even compare..."

"...Just look at the last two Final Fours. Of the 8 teams included, you can't convince me that even 1 was national title worthy in any other season over the past decade..."

"...We're at a point now where the best teams still get the best talent, but they never become a team..."

I actually fully agree with just one of these statements -- the latter entity but go take a read.

ESPN's Diamond Leung gives some love to USF

San Jose native Rex Walters enjoyed what I call the ultimate season in coaching during 2010-2011 in that the the sum of his players were greater than the parts and the squad got better as the schedule progressed. Walters and Kerry Keating at Santa Clara should have been named the co-coaches of the West Coast Conference (Randy Bennett nabbed the honor for another superb Gael go-around).

The season included a win against Colorado (a borderline Big Dance possibility), one against Gonzaga in overtime, plus a pair of victories over Santa Clara and Portland.

Having the 'Nightmare on Fulton Street' finally conclude for USF athletics with the naming of new AD Scott Sidwell can only better a situation that was untenable for far too long.

Northern California prepsters who contributed to the success of the Dons (19-15 overall) are:

* Angelo (Archbishop Mitty) Caliaro, a senior-to-be starter who started all 34 games, averaged 33+ minutes of playing time and led the team in rebounding

* Charles (Capital Christian) Standifer was injured his freshman year, participating in but nine games and hopefully can gain an extra year of eligibility. There's a lot of potential in that young man.

Plus, 6-foot-8 San Ramon Valley star Mark Tollefsen is entering the program.

Here is Diamond Leung with some post-season USF admiration.

Nor Cal underclass player honors by the Cal-Hi Sports staff

Brandon Ashley (POY) and Tajai Johnson have made the All State Underclass First Team junior squad as chosen by the Cal-Hi Sports staff.

Second Team junior selections are David Andoh, Dominic Artis, Richard Longrus, Trevor Priest and Parker U'u.

Sophomores being selected are Jabari Bird, Stephen Domingo, Aaron Gordon (POY), T.J. Wallace and D’Erryl Williams.

Dominican University still in search mode

Theo Fightmaster reports that Dominican University is still in the process of hiring a new men's basketball head coach.

Branson goes with Bret Tovani

John Dugan has the news of former Dominican University and San Rafael High Coach Bret Tovani being hired to mentor the Branson High boys squad.

More on Jim Les' hire

John Schumacher has a Sac Bee feature on the hiring of Jim Les at UC Davis.

Da'Ron Sims enjoyed a great first season

After two years at CCSF, Da'Ron Sims transferred to West Georgia and was the leading scorer for the Coach Michael Cooney's Wolves this season at 14.8 points per game. He was tied for first in rebounding at 7.8 per contest.

A former star at McClymonds High, Sims earned two Player of the Week honors during league play.

The University of West Georgia is a member of the Gulf South Conference and is located in Carrollton, GA.

Here's a 2009 article on Sims from The Guardian, the CCSF student newspaper.

Orlando Johnson returns to UCSB

Former Palma High star and current primo player on the UCSB basketball squad Orlando Johnson has decided to remain a Gaucho. From UCSB athletics:

Orlando Johnson, who has led UC Santa Barbara to consecutive Big West Conference Tournament championships and NCAA Tournament berths for the first time in school history, has removed his name from consideration for the 2011 NBA Draft, he announced Sunday.

"I want to finish what I started," said Johnson. "I want to get my degree. When I went to LMU (Loyola Marymount, where he played as a freshman) my goal was to graduate and I don't want to leave college without achieving that."

Johnson, a two-time Big West Tournament MVP, two-time First Team All-Big West choice, and two-time league scoring champion, will return as one of the top players in the nation. As a junior, he ranked among the top-15 in scoring nationally at 21.0 points per game.

"I want to return and take my game to a new level," he said. "I am excited because we have so much potential. We've gone to two NCAA Tournaments and I know that we have a chance to be so successful."

UCSB head coach Bob Williams is pleased to see his top player return for his senior campaign.

"Obviously I am glad that Orlando decided to return," he said. "It was his decision and we would have supported him either way. He is the leader of this team and the opportunity to have him next year is huge for us. It is very exciting."

Johnson made himself available to the NBA in April. On Saturday, he attended a workout in New Jersey for several prospects and while he fared very well, he still opted to return.

"The opportunity to display my abilities was a good one," he said. "I know what I have to do now and I will work on those things."

With Johnson's return, the Gauchos will have much of their arsenal from 2011 back for the 2011-12 season. In addition to the league's leading scorer, they will also welcome back James Nunnally, who averaged 16.7 points per game and was an Honorable Mention All-Big West selection. Nunnally and Jaimé Serna were both selected to the All-Big West Tournament Team after UCSB swept three games and stormed to the title.

Ohlone's Lavon Gray lands a scholarship

Just read that 6-foot-5 Lavon Gray, out of Ohlone College (Coach John Peterson) and Bellarmine College Prep prior to that, is headed to West Georgia (Carrollton, GA) to play basketball.

From the West Georgia athletics site:

Head coach Michael Cooney announced Thursday the addition of Lavon Gray, a 6-6 forward from Milpitas, Calif. Gray comes to UWG as a transfer from Ohlone College, a traditionally strong program in the tough California juco league.

           
Cooney is excited by his program’s newest addition, “Lavon possesses great skill scores inside-and-out, rebounds, and runs the floor hard.” The coach continues, “He is very versatile and can defend any position on the floor. Lavon should bring great energy to our front court and gives us a lot of options with our returning forwards.”

           
Gray was last season a first team all-conference performer at Ohlone. He averaged 15.2 points and 8.7 rebounds per game, while shooting 56% from the field. As a freshman, Gray averaged 9.3 points and 8.6 rebounds per game on a team that posted a 24-5 record, and spent part of the season with a number one ranking and a berth in the postseason Elite Eight.

           
“Lavon is a high character person who is a pleasure to be around,” concludes Cooney. “He is a great fit for our program in every way.”

An update on Marquin Chandler

Came across this link to the site of the agent who represents former San Jose State and Newark Memorial High frontcourter Marquin Chandler. Here is her specific page on Marquin, who has earned quite the living playing overseas.

Is there a problem with Providence and Kiwi?

This Kevin McNamara article informs us that Kiwi Gardner has yet to sign an official letter-of-intent with Coach Ed Cooley and Providence College (scroll down to the next to last paragraph).

Anyone know what is causing the delay?

Another Mike McChristian article

Here's Matt Miller with a piece on Will C. Wood graduate and Yuba College star Mike McChristian aligning himself with Idaho of the Western Athletic Conference.

Matt Redfield to MIT

The New England Recruiting Report has this posted this on Gunn High's Matt Redfield:

M.I.T. Lands Another

M.I.T. has landed their most recent commitment from Matt Redfield, a six-foot-seven forward from Gunn High School in Palo Alto, California.

Redfield averaged 13 points, 10 rebounds, 3 blocks, 3 assists, and 1 steal per game this year from Gunn while earning first team all-league honors and being named honorable mention all-metro by the San Francisco Chronicle.

A long and mobile player, Redfield has a veratile skill set to make plays inside and out but may make his most immediate impact with his shot blocking ability.

Jim Les officially announced as the new coach at UC Davis

Here's the official announcement regarding Jim Les accepting the coaching job at UC Davis. So among the players, who will stay and who will go? One guarantee is that Les' cell phone has been glued to his ear the last couple of days with incoming and outgoing messages as the signing period begins to wind down.

Here's another article on Peter Pappageorge heading to Long Beach State

Nathan Mollat of The Daily Journal has an informative article posted on Cañada College backcourter Peter Pappageorge heading to Long Beach State.

Jared Cunningham has changed his name

Justin Young reports that former San Leandro High star and current Oregon Stater Jared Cunningham has undergone a moniker metamorphosis.

The junior-to-be was named to the PAC-10 All Tournament team and averaged 14.2 points per game in 2010-2011.

Robbie Herndon to San Francisco State

Thomas Gase reports on St. Patrick St. Vincent backcourter Robbie Herndon's signing with San Francisco State.

Interesting article on Terrence Jennings' agent

Adam Zagoria has posted a feature on the individual who is the agent for Terrence Jennings.

New Elsie Allen High coach

Michael Coit reports that Madison Lott has taken over as head coach of the Elsie Allen High boys basketball program.

Jim Les to coach UC Davis

aggie6thman has posted at the UC Davis basketball MB that former Bradley Coach Jim Les has been hired to replace Gary Stewart. What's fascinating is that Les has a son on the Aggie roster.

Here's an article from the Peoria newspaper on this subject.

Let's see if there are any Aggie roster changes and/or new signings before the May 18 deadline.

Yuba's Mike McChristian to Idaho

Coach Doug Cornelius has another player moving on -- point Mike (Will C. Wood High) McChristian has cast his lot with the Idaho Vandals of the Western Athletic Conference.

The 16th Six County All Star Basketball Game is Friday at MJC

Modesto Junior College is hosting the 16th Six County All Star Basketball Game Friday night. Here are the various participants.

All star game Saturday in Marin

John Dugan writes about a high school all star game on Saturday featuring the best senior (and we're not talking age 65 and up) ballers in Marin County.

Peter Pappageorge to Long Beach State

Former Burlingame High star Peter Pappageorge, now at Cañada College, has decided to walk-on at Long Beach State. Glenn Reeves has the details.

An update on Jordan Richardson

Jordan Richardson came from Texas and played his senior season (2009-2010) at West High in Tracy before signing with Weber State of the Big Sky Conference. He just completed his freshman season and probably played more than expected due to Damian Lillard's season-ending foot injury.

Richardson participated in all 32 games, playing just below 20 minutes a game in league play, in which he averaged 4.4 points per contest. He shot 31% overall, 42% from three-point range and 95% from the foul line.

Remember Terrence Jennings?

So Louisville's Terrence Jennings is all in the NBA draft. The 6-10 junior who was raised in Sacramento and went to Capital Christian High in 2004-2005 (but attended a number of high schools), is turning pro one way or the other.

By the way, anyone know who his agent is?

I recall (but the memory is getting hazy) Jennings, Matt Simpkins, Eli Holman and Wendell McKines playing in a tourney game one summer 5-6 years ago at San Jose State. The latter two were on the same team (that we recall) and I think Jennings and Simpkins were opposing them. Talk about potential on the court that day!

Brad Winton's Top 100 JUCO players

Brad Winton is out with his Top 100 JUCO players across the nation and in his list northern California is repped by the following:

* #4 De'End Parker, CCSF to UCLA

* #22 Casey Arent, Sierra College to Oklahoma

* #35 Greg Allen, Navarro College to USC

* #42 Julian Welch, Yuba College to Minnesota

* #70 Collin Chiverton, CCSF (destination still undecided)

* #82 Jonathan Williams, CCSF to Wagner

Local basketball skills trainers win YouTube prize

The Curtiss family is well known in Santa Cruz County as Mr.'s Basketball in the area and now YouTube has recognized them:

Curtiss family wins $35,000 prize from YouTube for Shot Science videos
Ryan Moses
Santa Cruz Sentinel
5/03/2011

What started as a fun project to share his family's love of basketball has turned into a full-time job for Soquel's Casey Curtiss -- a job he's now getting paid for.

YouTube selected Curtiss' online instructional basketball video series, called Shot Science, as one of 25 winners of the website's inaugural Next Up contest Monday. The contest is designed to help promote the talents and careers of some of YouTube's best video producers. Each of the winners will travel to New York later this month to attend the first YouTube Creator Camp for training and mentoring on how to build the brand, and receive a $35,000 grant to spend on their projects...

Go here for the remainder.

Here is the trio's Shot Science site.

More on Will Davis coming back to California

The New England Recruiting Report has a feature on Will Davis's commit to UC Irvine.

Notes on Brandon Ashley and Jabari Bird

Ian Powers wrote this after viewing Brandon Ashley/Oakland Soldiers this weekend:

"This kid has transformed his game from strictly being a low post player to one who can shoot it to three and face up and put it on the floor. He is 6'10" and still seems to be growing. He is very long and has huge, soft hands that allow him to catch and finish in traffic. He has nice form on his jump shot which bodes well for him in the future as he continues to expand his game. He is a very active shot blocker and is active on both backboards. Had some trouble staying on the floor this weekend due to foul trouble. Needs to add strength and bulk to his frame, but he his physique has gone through a good transformation already. Easily one of the top 5 players in his class and could quite possibly end up being the player with the most upside."

ESPN's Paul Biancardi also wrote about Ashley, plus Jabari Bird:

"He has always been a high-level prospect and is now becoming a high-end productive player. Ashley is a super athlete who runs the floor with long strides and blazing speed. Offensively, his developing skill level to drive the ball from the high post is smooth for his size. Defensively, he is an adept shot blocker from the weak side or in transition, where he chases down his opponent."

Here's Biancardi on Bird:

"He is an explosive athlete who thrives in the transition game or half-court set. Bird scores the basketball with grace, and his pull-up jumper and 3-point shot are legitimate weapons. He also can beat guys off the bounce and get to the rim, but he must make a greater effort to not allow dribble penetration on the defensive end. California and Arizona are his only two offers to this point, but Washington, Washington State, Louisville, Marquette, Texas and Providence are showing strong interest."

Kudos to Shawn Lewis

Congratulations to former Bishop O'Dowd star Shawn Lewis for his receiving Most Valuable Player honors on the Cal Poly basketball team.

Will Davis to UC Irvine

Pete Hutchins, the coach at New Hampton School, tweets about Will Davis' commit to UC Irvine and Coach Russell Turner.

Loved the headline of this article

Pete Thamel of the New York Times has another compelling article up on college basketball recruiting and the writer of the headline deserves extra credit.

Key quote: "That guy is a cancer to everything he touches”

We ask: how can someone have your best interests in mind when the level of his bank account is determined by someone else?

More love for De'End Parker

Scroll down to the Ranking The transfers section of Mel Grussing's article to read a bit more about De'End Parker and UCLA.

Brandon Ashley, Dom Artis and Stephen Domingo getting some national love

Jerry Meyer of Rivals posted this yesterday (a Rivals sub is required) after viewing games at the Jayhawk Invitational in Lawrence, Kansas:

Brandon Ashley (2012, Oakland Soldiers) - Ashley is progressively expanding his game. Friday night he looked great attacking the basket off the dribble from the wing.

Ohio State and Connecticut are the latest schools to offer Brandon Ashley. Planning to formulate a list by mid-summer, Ashley also mentioned offers from all the Pac-10 schools, along with Kansas, Kentucky, Texas, Wake Forest and interest from North Carolina.

Dominic Artis (2012, Oakland Soldiers) - ...Artis played with composure and confidence at the point guard position. Constantly in command of his handle, he broke down the defense with regularity and found open teammates.

Then, Eric Bossi of Rivals posted this today (a Rivals sub is required):

Stephen Domingo, SF, Dream Vision 16's- A thin wing, the near 6-foot-6 Domingo is the owner of one of the smoothest jump shots in the class of 2013. Skilled around the perimeter, he shot faked and used a control dribble to create a little separation. A four-star prospect, his game will open up even more if he looks to get into the lane and attack the rim a bit more.

Wendell McKines, on stage

No, we're not talking a basketball court here.

Check it out.

A Chris McNealy update

Former San Ramon Valley star Chris McNealy earned 20 minutes of court time a game in 31 contests this past as a freshman for UC Irvine Coach Russell Turner.

His numbers: 5 points and 2.2 rebounds a game, 38% overall shooting, 35% from long distance and 22 steals. He actually led his team with 14 shotblocks.