Northern CA names on Big West rosters

In an official Big West Conference press release, a number of Nor Cal talents are detailed.

Cal State Fullerton:

CSF boasts two of the top players in the Big West in senior all-conference standouts D. J. Seeley and Kwame Vaughn.

• Seeley polished of a solid 2011-12 campaign with All-Big West First Team accolades. The transfer from Cal ranked among the Big West leaders in several categories, including scoring (4th – 17.3 ppg), rebounding (14th – 5.5 rpg), field goal percentage (8th - .439) and steals (3rd – 1.5 spg). He also placed in the top 10 in three-point field goal percentage (4th - .434) and three-point field goals made (8th – 2.1).  Seeley had 13 games with 20 points or more, punctuated by a career-high 32-point performance against Loyola Marymount in the first round of the postseason CIT.

• Vaughn is every bit as dangerous a scorer as Seeley while running the Titan offense. He erupted for a career-high 37 points against UC Santa Barbara (Feb. 4) and notched 20 points or more nine times last season. In addition, he led the Big West in assists (3.7 apg) and free throw percentage (.847). The 6-3 guard also placed fifth on the league leaderboard in field goal percentage (.458). An All-Big West Second Team selection, he and Seeley join UC Irvine’s Michael Wilder as the only three returnees from the 2011-12 all-conference first and second teams. 

To stay at the top, CSF needs a third scorer and one of the top candidates for that role is TCU transfer Sammy Yeager. The 6-4 forward averaged 9.3 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists for the Horned Frogs in 2010-11. Another potential source of offense is 6-6 redshirt freshman forward Darius Nelson. He attended UTEP for the fall semester in 2011-12 but did not play, and becomes eligible for the Titans in December.

UC Davis

• Junior Josh Ritchart is the leading returning scorer for the Aggies. He averaged 11.3 points and added 5.1 rebounds per game in 2011-12. Named the Big West Co-Freshman of the Year in 2010-11, Ritchart excelled at times and struggled at others last season. He hit seven three-pointers and collected 24 points against league champion Long Beach State (Feb. 11) but was scoreless against the same 49ers in the quarterfinals of the Big West Tournament (Mar. 8). His 69 three-pointers ranked fifth all-time in the Aggie single-season record book.

• A healthy Ryan Sypkens will certainly help the UC Davis cause this season. The 6-4 guard averaged a team-best 14.0 points through the first four games of 2011-12 before a knee injury sidelined him for the remainder of the season. Sypkens contributed 9.7 points per game and led the Aggies with 66 three-pointers as a sophomore in 2010-11. His absence hindered UC Davis greatly on offense, a big reason why the team finished eighth in the Big West in scoring (62.1 ppg) last year.

UC Irvine

• Junior Chris McNealy joins Wilder and Starring as three ‘Eaters who started all 32 games last season. McNealy had a standout performance in UCI’s upset of No. 2 seed Cal State Fullerton in the Big West Tournament quarterfinals with a career-high 24 points that helped him earn all-tournament accolades. He finished third on the team with 10.2 points, but the 6-4 guard contributed in other areas with 98 assists, 17 blocked shots and 27 steals.

• Forward Will Davis II posted a school record 55 blocked shots as a freshman in 2011-12. The 6-8 forward/center looks to improve upon his 7.8 points and 5.2 rebounds per game.

UC Riverside

• Playing time is up for grabs with so many new faces.  Among the freshmen, 6-6 forward Josh Fox was named the San Francisco City Player of the Year and First Team All-Bay Area at Sacred Heart Cathedral as the team’s leading scorer at 19.0 points per game. His high school teammate, 6-6 forward Taylor Johns, helped the team to the California State Championship game where he tallied 13 points, 19 rebounds and three blocks. 

UC Santa Barbara

• Senior guard Nate Garth, junior forward Keegan Hornbuckle and sophomore guard T.J. Taylor were part-time starters last season.  Garth and Taylor split point guard duties, and combined for 132 assists and 63 turnovers.  All three players made at least 10 three-pointers.

• Redshirt freshman John Green is a potential prime scoring option for the Gauchos.  He was expected to make key contributions last season, but suffered a broken foot in the opener and missed the remainder of the season.  The 6-5 guard is likely slated for a starting role.

Green has since re-broken hit foot and looks out for year again.

William Jessup loaded with Nor Cal student-athletes

William Jessup Coach Aaron Muhic has a very large roster this season (22 players) and the majority come out of northern California:

* Kenneth Parker FR F 6-5 Antelope, CA Center High School

* Marquis Robinson SR G 6-0 Sacramento, CA Warner Pacific College

* Trevor Fairrington SO G 6-3 Rocklin, CA Biola University

* Sterling Shells JR G 6-1 Galt, CA Galt High School

* Kelton Newman FR G 6-3 Elk Grove, CA Franklin High School

* Dustin Koons SO F 6-6 Sacramento, CA Capital Christian High School

* Skyler Sexton FR G 6-2 Turlock, CA Pitman High School

* Keenan Prince SR G 6-1 Marysville, CA Hawaii Pacific University

* Jordan Wilson SR F 6-4 Rocklin, CA Whitney High School

* Tim Oswald JR G 6-2 Mariposa, CA Santa Rosa CC

* Nick Barnhart SR C 6-6 Eureka, CA San Diego Mesa College

* Jeremiah Gawthrop JR F 6-6 Chico, CA Champion Christian High School

* Keith Bruder JR F 6-4 Pleasant Hill, CA College Park High School

WJ is an NAIA athletic program based in Rocklin and competes in the California Pacific Conference.

Prince was a high scorer back in the prep ranks -- didn't know he transferred back home for his senior season.

Vaughn noted

Jeff Eisenberg looks at the Big West Conference and makes this assessment:  

Best playmaker: Kwame Vaughn, Cal State Fullerton

Going negative

Jason Jordan writes about negative recruiting and talks with some of the top-rated prospects about their experiences.

Recruiters watch for more than skills

Coach Sam Allen tweeted: "Had convo with college head coach this morn who was @ a recent showcase. They dropped a guy bc of poor body language."

Remember Fly Williams?

If you have more than a few decades under your belt you probably recall Fly Williams jacking up shots and scoring like 30 points per game for Austin Peay.

But there was always a sense that matters would not end up good for Williams and that was unfortunately fulfilled.

Eric Angevine reports on a Williams biography penned by Jack Link.

The holidays aren't too far away so keep it in mind as it sounds like a cautionary tale told truthfully.

Seven Nor Cal players on the Dominican roster

Check out the northern California talents dotting Coach Booker Harris' Dominican University roster:

* Matt Hayes, 6-foot-2, guard, freshman (Yuba City High)

* Conner Haysbert, 6-foot-8, center, junior (Center High)

* KJ Logue, 6-foot-5, forward, freshman (Bella Vista High)

* Jarred Pengal, 6-foot-3, forward, senior, St. Vincent's High)

* Karl Reyes, 5-foot-10, guard, junior (Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep)

* Christopher Schwartz-Edmisten, 6-foot-3, guard, freshman (Sacramento Waldorf High)

* Dom Taplin, 6-foot-0, guard, sophomore (Oakland High)

Hayes, Logue, Schwatrz-Edmisten and Taplin all came in the 2011-12 recruiting class.

Rivera & Eakles playing for Cal St. San Marcos

Sactophil at the UOP MB notes that former De la Salle guard Jose Rivera and Adam Eakles, a forward out of Woodland High, are on the Cal State San Marcos roster. Rivera is a senior, Eakles a junior.

Nor Cal players in the Big Sky

Raphielle Johnson/NBE Basketball looks at each team in the Big Sky Conference and here are some snippets featuring Nor Cal talents:

Will Cherry (two-time defending Big Sky Defensive POY). Cherry also ranked third in the conference in assists while leading Montana in scoring (15.8 ppg)

Davion Berry should also factor into the rotation after sitting out last season, as should Jordan Richardson (4.2 ppg in 32 games, 14 starts)

senior Colin Chiverton does return for his final campaign. Chiverton averaged 13.9 points per game and led EWU with 88 made three-pointers, but he’ll need to shoot better from the field as a whole (36.7% FG) as even more of the offense falls upon his shoulders. 

There is also Frank Otis at Weber State plus Northern Colorado features James Davis and Brendan Keane.

Sacramento State has John Dickson, Jordan Estrada, Cody Demps, Konner Veteto and Mikh McKinney.

Just thinking

Imagine where the USF program would be situated if Wendell McKines hadn't been sacrificed in the internecine battle between the then AD and the then head coach of the Dons?

It's all speculation of course but maybe more NorCal talents would be sporting the USF uniform. There would have definitely been more pub for Dons basketball. A greater number of wins, too.

Lance Whitaker and UC Davis

UC Davis has Lance Whitaker on campus for an official visit this weekend, per Alex Kline/The Recruit Scoop (a Rivals sub is required). Whitaker is a 6-foot-3 point out of Illinois, the state stomping grounds for Coach Jim Les' previous coaching position.

*** UPDATE Further investigation located this Erik Jacobsen article dated September 24 in which Whitaker says he committed to University Illinois Chicago so tripping to California must be off. ***

Iroegbu tripping to the Palouse

Per Alex Kline/The recruit Scoop (a Rivals sub is required), Washington State is officially hosting former Franklin point Ikenna Iroegbu. 

In addition to WSU, fellow Pac-12 members USC and Oregon State have also offered. Missouri has extended a request, too.

The Cougars need an upgrade at the point. 

Iroegbu's older brother Chuks walked on/redshirted in Pullman last season before transferring to City College of San Francisco.

MPope evaluated

The SoCalRecruit Spot folks have a solid analysis up on 2014 prospect Malik Pope. Look for the bigtime national media to follow.

SSU definitely added some talent

Sonoma State University has quite the incoming class on campus so we talked with Associate Head Coach Rich Shayewitz about the six newcomers on the Seawolves' roster.

Here you go:

Michael Avery is the sole non northern Californian. A 6-foot-5 prep backcourter out of southern California. "Michael is an amazing athlete who can jump out of the gym and also has a great feel for the game," according to Shayewitz. "He'll play a lot of positions for us (backup point and wing in addition to being a two) because he shoots it well and can get by guys and take it to the rim. He played inside as a four in high school last year and showed he can rebound, bang and defend taller opponents. He plays hard."

Emmanuel Bradford comes in as a 6-foot-1 junior point by way Antioch High and Los Medanos College. Shayewitz said "he is really talented and ultra tough. Emmanuel is a good shooter with excellent quickness and he'll defend all 94 feet. He played with cracked ribs in 75% of his games last season" -- this in 20 contests in which he averaged 19 points per game. Shayewitz added, "he has fit right in as he molds his game around the players surrounding him. He will open up the court and is also a really good student." Bradford shot 51%, 59% and 75% respectively last season.

Isaiah Brown was the Alameda Contra Costa Athletic League Most Valuable Player, an honor earned despite playing on a team winning but one game last season. Shayewitz offered, "Isaiah has a ton of raw talent and ability and is very gifted offensively. He has a great body and is a dynamite kid." At 6-feet, Brown scored over 27 points a game for the Richmond High Oilers.

Nathan Molony-Benjamin is the big man of the group.He has Shayewitz excited because "Nathan is super athletic, long and our fastest guy up and down the floor." Molony-Benjamin, out of Analy High and a All-Sonoma County League honoree, measures 6-foot-8. "He rebounds and finishes above the rim and is becoming more aggressive and assertive. Nathan has no idea how good he can be. Call him a baby colt growing into a thoroughbred. Guys missed on him"

Andre Mattson is a 6-foot-4 wing moving over from Merced Junior College. Per Shayewitz, "He fits the mold of what we are about, a blue collar worker." Mattson scored 10.2 points per game in 2011-12 on 43% overall shooting, 36% from long distance and 82% from the foul line.

Andy Luttringer stands 6-foot-5 and played at Maria Carrillo High last season. "We'll be redshirting Andy," Shayewitz said.

A trio of northern California talents with the Gators

Caught three new Nor Cal-related names on the San Francisco State roster besides that of Decensae White:

 * Dillon Sabia (6-foot-5 junior out of Drake High and College of Marin)

* Jordan Ruedy (6-foot-1 sophomore out of Serra High)

* Steven Sanders (6-foot-6 junior out of Lynbrook High and Cañada  College)

A CSUMB roster update

Cal State Monterey Bay and Coach Rob Bishop have a number of northern CA talents populating the Otter roster in 2012-13:

* Derrick Anderson, 6-foot-7, senior, forward (Pittsburgh High)

* Brandon Cole, 6-foot-1, junior, guard (Vallejo High, Napa Valley College)

* Kevin Loustale, 6-foot-6, senior, forward (Chico High, Shasta College)

* Julian Ball, 6-foot-4, junior, forward (Citrus Heights High, Sierra College)

* James Thomas, 6-foot-3, junior, guard (Bishop O'Dowd High)

* Kris Gallop, 6-foot-9, junior forward/center (Antioch High, Los Medanos College)

Cole, Ball and Gallop are newcomers to the team.

ESPN and college entrance standards

The new academic requirements for high school seniors and community college transfers is starting to create some negative buzz from seemingly unlikely sources.

Head here.

Take in this jaw-dropping line: "...Others questioned if ESPN and the other television networks are ready for a potentially watered-down spectacle..."

So academic entry levels (whatever you think about the raising of such) may be shaky because of the television dollars factor?

Let's see how this works out.

Gordon and Johnson in Starbucksville

Aaron Gordon and Darin Johnson will be in Seattle this weekend -- Percy Allen has a number of quotes on Gordon from Mitty Coach Tim Kennedy.

It's interesting and obviously not a coincidence that the pair will be there along with a prep point guard who has already committed to Coach Lorenzo Romar.

A Santa Clara preview

Joe Hennessy weighs in on this season's Santa Clara Broncos. Last year was a Bronco nightmare because of two primary reasons but 2012-13 looks promising. Former Bellarmine talent Niyi Harrison will own the four spot per Hennessey plus DLS alumnus John McArthur will provide frontcourt depth.

Meet Terrence White

Football or basketball? Basketball or football? Options are always good to have even if the ultimate decision might be a difficult one. Team Sage and Inderkum High dual sport talent Terrence White might just decide to try both in college.

A 16-year-old 6-foot-1 junior, White is a combination backcourter and running back/defensive back and has created interest for his services in both sports based on his participation in just his first two years of high school.

With roundball in particular, he's been a starter and all-league selection since his freshman season and White led his varsity Tiger teammates with 14.8 points per game as a sophomore.

Here's Team Sage founder Wornel Simpson on White: "An original Team Sage-Truth member, Terrence has been an iron-man, having never missed a game and we've played close to 125. He brings intensity, athleticism and the ability to score in bunches. Terrence is super athletic, plays great man-to-man defense and can take a game over offensively. He can also close out and track down loose balls with the best of them. He is arguably the best junior in the city, and if not, the most athletic. Doubling as a stand-out defensive back and running back on Inderkum's championship football team, Terrence is a definite D-I prospect."

Simpson added, "I've coached him since the sixth grade and several D-1 coaches have already inquired about Terrence -- he along with 3-4 of his Sage teammates will be hot commodities if they continue to work hard and develop over the next two years. Playing 17s in the Las Vegas Fab 48, this past July, Terrence and his young teammates had 18-25 college coaches watching every move in three of the four games they played at Desert Oasis HS."

Asked to delineate his sports affection, White offered that "basketball is my first love." He grew up on it and he and his brothers lived for the sport. It was a cousin who got him interested in football.

To a query about his best basketball skills, White said, " Going to the rack, I'm a scrappy guy. Plus, my mid-range jumper."

What's interesting is that he switches roles depending on the hoops uniform he is sporting.

"In high school, I'm the guy who needs to score but with AAU ball, one day it's you, the next day it's a teammate."

He also notes a change he has experienced -- "In my freshman year, you think you're the best person on the team but I've matured and now I try and get others involved."

Academically, all Team Sage members must maintain a 3.3 grade point average so White is on target for college. Per Simpson, "Terrence consistently attends tutoring and continues to show improvement academically."

It's still mighty early regarding recruiting but White offered, "I kind of want to go to the East Coast to experience something different."

Collegiately, he believes it will boil down to being a point in basketball and a slot receiver in football. In the latter, he already owns a 4.5 forty time.

When asked how his friends would describe him, White said "a funny guy who likes to make everybody laugh."

That's not likely what opposing players would say.

Simpson added, "Yes, Terrence loves people and enjoys making people laugh, but what he doesn't realize is that he has a special gift for bringing people together. His leadership qualities aren't defined, but as his coach and friend, I recognize them. Terrence is the one player I text before traveling to big games imploring him to be a leader. He always texts back "I got you Coach!" His attack mentality, defensive toughness, all-out hustle and leadership qualities will earn him a free education. Team Sage periodically brings in D-1 guards originally from the Bay Area to work out against our guards and Terrence physically holds his own and still has two more years of high school to continue getting better and stronger."

More on the Sonoma State University Basketball Coaches Clinic.

Bob Padecky writes about the upcoming Sonoma State University Basketball Coaches Clinic, focusing in on both the benefits of attending and featuring some local coaches giving reasons for being there.

A Decensae White sighting

Credit Cresco Dave for this nugget: "Glancing at the SF State University Gators roster I noticed a familiar name in Decensae White (Texas Tech/Santa Clara)"

The Serra High grad is listed as a senior.

What will be the deciding factor?

National press for Marcus Lee from Rob Dauster.

Can Dame trademark his name?

From Jeff Linder: "@Dame_Lillard if u got a dollar every time a non-BCS coach has used your name in recruiting since the draft u wouldn't need a NBA paycheck!"

A Rae Jackson update of sorts

Via a Jerina tweet: "G2013ElCerritoHS RaeJackson @RaeJack13 who'll sign him 1st? Long Beach, Ohio, Hawaii, Tulsa, SanDiegoU, EastWash, SJState, Bakersfield?"

Little of Nor Cal in Top 100

Mike Rutherford has posted his top 100 college players for the 2012-13 season and a quick perusal produced these Nor Cal-related  talents catching our eye:

* #57 Matthew Dellavedova

* #97 Will Cherry (now injured)

That's it.

I hope he at least considered Chase Tapley.

Plus, can Brandon Ashley create a quick impression?

Or maybe Jabari Brown will swiftly create a name.

Davis offers a 2014 Las Vegas point

From Eric Bossi (a Rivals sub is required):

2014 point guard Noah Robotham has taken his game to a new level...Standing about 5-foot-10 or 5-foot-11, Robotham is a clever, confident and smart point guard who can make open jumpers. Since last year, he's become noticeably quicker and he was outstanding at the Fall Showcase. His first offer is from UC-Davis but Weber State, Southern Utah, Pepperdine, BYU and UNLV are among those now tracking him.

A Herman Pratt update

It's a bit old but caught this Jerina tweet on Mr. Defense: "Herman Pratt, 2013,G,Sacred Heart Prep, San Francisco Rebel recruited by UC SanDiego, Seattle Univ, Reno, UC Riverside & Santa Barbara"

Sonoma State Basketball Coaches Clinic on September 30

The Sonoma State University Men's Basketball program invites all coaches, men and women, to attend the first SSU Basketball Coaches Clinic.

The event will take place on Sunday, September 30th at the Wolves' Den on the campus of Sonoma State University. The clinic begins at 9:00 am.

The event is open to all coaches, from middle school and AAU to college, and will include on-the-court demonstrations and teachings by SSU head coach Pat Fuscaldo and members of the SSU basketball team, plus special guest speakers: Mike Montgomery (Cal), Bob Williams (UC Santa Barbara), and Bill Grier (University of San Diego). All speakers will include on-the-court demonstrations. Each speaker will focus on a specific aspect of the game as they discuss topics such as set plays and special situations, motion offense nd breakdown drills, and match-up zone defense.

Schedule of Events:

8:00 AM:  Registration begins/Coffee & Donuts
9:00 AM:  Pat Fuscaldo (Head Coach, Sonoma State) - Competitive Practice Drills
10:00 AM:  Bill Grier (Head Coach, University of San Diego) - Motion Offense and Breaking it Down
11:00 AM:  Bob Williams (Head Coach, UC Santa Barbara) - Match Up Zone Defense
12:00 PM:  Lunch Provided
12:30 PM:  Mike Montgomery (Head Coach, Cal) - Set Plays and Special Situations
1:30 PM:  Coaches Forum - All Presenters

Cost:

* Pay and Register on or before September 15th: $55
* Pay and Register after September 15th: $65

Includes:

* Morning Coffee & Donuts
* Afternoon Lunch
* SSU Basketball T-Shirt

To register, go here

Carvin back in Sacto

Cal State Fullerton athletics reports that Chris Carvin has returned home due to family matters.

3rd Annual Central Valley Fall Showcase

The 3rd Annual Central Valley Fall Showcase will take place Saturday October 20 at the Porter Fieldhouse (College of Sequoias) in Visalia, CA .

It will run from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

OPEN TO INDIVIDUAL HIGH SCHOOL PLAYERS IN ALL GRADES (INCLUDING SENIORS), HIGH SCHOOL TEAMS, AND AAU TEAMS

* $50 PARTICIPATION FEE FOR INDIVIDUALS/$350 FOR TEAMS
* $60 Late Registration Fee at the door 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Last year this event had over 90 participants. We will close registration at 120 this year.

This event is designed to provide all players an opportunity to demonstrate their competitive skills to the colleges, scouts, and media expected to attend.

This will be an intense teaching & exposure format where players will be put in highly competitive situations against top level opposition. It is an opportunity to demonstrate your ability to compete against the best and set yourself apart.

Play against top level HS competition from Central California and other areas.

Get evaluated by the West Coast’s top scouts like West Coast Hoops Report, Area Codes Basketball, Premiere Basketball in addition to college coaches in attendance.

A report on the event will be written by West Coast Hoops Report that will be sent to college coaches (and various internet sites).

Showcase will be coordinated by professional trainer Charlie Torres. He has trained many of the elite players in the world and is considered one of the top workout coaches in the country. He currently operatates the Anaheim Sports Center and traines the likes of Derrick Williams, Landry Fields, Jeremy Lin and others. He has also worked with Kobe Bryant & Kevin Durant.

For further information, call 559-300-4243 or contact by email @ LDod32@aol.com -- LeRohn Dodson

CENTRAL VALLEY SHOWCASE REGISTRATION FORM

Please fill out and send form and payment to:

Superstar Basketball PO BOX 2062 Tulare, CA 93275

A participation fee ($50 for individuals/$350 for teams) must accompany your application and be received by October 12th 2012. Please make cashier's check or money order payable to
"Superstars Basketball".

Name__________________________School_____________________

Home Address_____________________________________________

City___________________________ State_____Zip Code__________

Home Phone (      )_______________ Cell (      )_________________

E-mail____________________________________________________

H.S. Grad Yr._____________Height__________Weight____________

SAT Score______________ACT Score__________GPA_____________

School Coach______________________________________________

HEALTH AND BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY

Health Insurance Co.________________________________________

Policy No.__________________Group No._______________________

I understand that any Central Valley Showcase  participant who does not abide by the rules, regulations and policies established by CVS is subject to dismissal without reimbursement or recourse and I hereby waive and release the CVS/NLCC & COS from any and all liability for any injury or illnesses while participating in the camp. I hereby authorize the directors of CVS and COS to act according to their best judgment in any emergency if I cannot be contacted. I understand that each camp participant is required to have their own medical and accident insurance.

Dan Grunfeld on reading helping his basketball success

Dan Grunfeld always writes interesting posts and this one twines reading and hoops. Enjoy.

How'd your recruiting trip go?

Chad Frazier enjoyed the ultimate recruiting trip experience -- being arrested.

Any connection to Reggie Moore's release from WSU?

This has to be the hands down winner so far in bad decision-making for a recruit -- go tripping, make sure you get your hands on some alcohol and ...

Dunn is out and about

Robert Robinson tweeted: "#RecruitingRumor 5-10 PG Mario Dunn (Salesian HS CA) visted @UMGRIZZLIES_BB (9-14) & No. Colo. (9-7) Santa Clara & UC Irvine also involved"

What Wendell McKines brought to New Mexico State

Las Cruces Sun News reporter Jason Groves interviewed New Mexico State Coach Marvin Menzies and the subject of Wendell McKines came up:

JG: You can probably replace Wendell McKines' numbers, but how do you replace the other things he brought to your team?

Menzies: Wendell had a very strong personality. It was something that will be missed. His passion and toughness, those are intangibles that you have to look to see who is the next guy who is going to help to bring some of those components to the program. I'm not really sure who that individual is yet or if it's going to happen collectively...

Vermeer lands initial offer

Grant Vermeer, the sharp-shooting Bellarmine Prep guard tweeted: "Just got offered by Navy!!!!!!!"

DJ Seeley evaluated

Ed Isaacson/NBA Draft Blog writes about DJ Seeley:

D.J. Seeley, Cal State – Fullerton, Guard, 6’4, 195
17.3 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1.5 spg, 43.9 FG%, 73.1 FT%, 43.4 3FG%
Seeley made the most of his first year at CSF after sitting out a year (transfer from California).  He thrives in a fast paced game, but has shown the ability to attack the basket in halfcourt offenses.  He has a very good first step and gets into the lane quickly, with the ability to finish with either hand.  Seeley is also a good spot-up shooter from long-range, having a quick, fluid stroke.  He is active on the boards for his size, and is quick to get to missed shots.  He is a good on-ball defender, moving his feet well and forcing his man away from the basket area.  He can either push the ball or run the wings in transition, and is quick to the basket.
What he needs to show this season: Seeley is quick and moves well, but I want to see him do a better job moving without the ball, looking to hit open spots and create separation from his man.  Also, I want to see him improve his ballhandling enough to where he can use his dribble to create space for his jumper, as well as create shots for his teammates.  He needs to start to add a mid-range jumper to his offensive arsenal, as he will not get into the lane as easily at the next level.  On the defensive end, Seeley has to be more conscious of his positioning off the ball.  He has a tendency to roam and get turned around against motion offenses.

Cherry suffers broken foot

Will Cherry has broken his foot.

Here's more.

Robert Robinson adds a bit.

Meet Parker Farris

Yes, Parker Farris is up at McKinleyville High, past Arcata in Humboldt County.

That's a negative in terms of visibility.

His body, in something applicable to close to 100% of high school seniors, could use further musculature.

Strike two.

However, consider that he's currently 6-foot-4.

He's a pitcher, a quarterback and the primary offensive tool for his team in basketball. Good things happen when the ball, of any sort, is in his hands.

He's a gym rat and a winner.

He owns a 3.6 to 4.0 grade point average.

He will three-point you to a loss if his opponent is lax, probably even regardless of the defensive effort applied against him.

That's quite a roll of positives.

His Lakeshow team won the Bay Area Memorial Day Classic tournament and also performed well at Adidas Three Stripes. That produced some buzz for Farris even though club team play is probably not the best showcase for his strengths.

In Las Vegas come late July, Lakeshow took just one game but "I played solid," as Farris put it. He believes it's his defense that improved the most over spring and summer. His McKinleyville High Coach Brian Koury offered, "Parker's AAU coaches really pushed him hard to guard the opponents best player."

Now he's working hard once again, hoping his high school hoops team does well this season and goes deep in the section. That will produce more eyeballs to his game. Hopefully, the important ones who have scholarships to offer.

Asked who is checking him out, Farris offered, "Humboldt State, Cal State Monterey Bay, San Francisco State and UC San Diego."

He has an inherent understanding of the game and he can shoot, two elements difficult if not impossible to teach or change.

Now Farris cannot control his recognition but he's doing what he can to become known. The addition of muscle will come with a collegiate weight program, something certainly do-able.

So who is going to see this veritable diamond-in-the-rough?

That is, before he starts hammering opponents who will be left wondering where this guy came from.

Catching up with Team Superstar

Team Superstar (TS) enjoyed another strong run this year, according to Coach LeRohn Dodson. Simultaneously, Malik Pope burst into the national consciousness, treating the spring and summer as his personal coming out party.

Dodson has assembled talent from northern California, southern California and the San Joaquin Valley and backed by Under Armour, had his guys traversing through Texas, Wisconsin, Nevada, Georgia and California.

It was an assemblage on the young side, with each player being a 2014 class member except for one 2015-er as the group played up in age range against 17s most of the season.

As for Pope (now ranked #12 by Rivals, #19 by Scout and #27 by ESPN), Dodson said, "Malik literally blew up overnight playing with TS."

Dodson added, "I saw him play twice [in the high school ranks] and came away thinking he had a chance to be a special player. I've coached a lot of special players like Brook/Robin Lopez, Quincy Pondexter, Luke Babbitt, Jerryd Bayless and so on. He's just as talented as any of them at this point in his career and the sky's the limit for Malik."

Now the 6-foot-8 2014 junior has 28 full-fledged suitors.

"In March, it was UC Davis and Pepperdine interested and now UNLV, Baylor,  Washington, Cal, Colorado, Kansas, Arizona, USC, Gonzaga, Georgetown, Texas, Miami and so many more have offered, "Dodson said.

But Dodson has quite the collection of players even beyond Pope, including two other 2014 Sacramento area prospects in D.J. Wilson (6-foot-7 and growing, Capital Christian High) and Brady Anderson (6-foot-9, Jesuit High).

"Wilson will surprise a lot of people. He had a good spring but then got hurt and missed all of July," Dodson explained. "Cal, USC, UNLV, Georgetown, Arizona State and Notre Dame are amongst the schools already interested. He is on his way to blowing up on a national level."

Wilson was a First Team All Golden Valley League selection as a sophomore.

Per Dodson, "Skills-wise Anderson already matches up with the older players as he has good hands, soft touch and is a good pick-and-pop player. He competes and doesn't back down from anyone.  He'll put on muscle, get stronger and be just fine. He's drawing interest from teams in the West Coast Conference and Western Athletic Conference. Brady is also a great student."

Some of the other Team Superstar players include:

* Austin Armstead, 6-foot-3, Bullard High (Fresno), 2015



* Tyler Burch, 6-foot-4, Ocean View High, 2015

* Nate Claxton, 6-foot-4, Grace Davis High, 2014

* Fatai Eke, 6-foot-8, East Bakersfield, 2014

* DB Gibbs, 6-foot-8, Hart High, 2015

* Darius Hamilton, 6-foot-5, Central High, 2014

* Murshid Randle. 6-foot-3, Central High (Fresno), 2014

He scored 19 points, including six in the last quarter, to help lead the 2014-ers to victory in the recent Nor Cal Clash.



* Taelin Webb, 5-foot-11, La Mirada High, 2014

An extremely athletic and explosive point guard and the son of legendary basketball coach Vonn Webb. He is on the radar and being touted by many high major programs including UCLA, Arizona, USC amongst others.

This is ominous

It appears recruiting will now be a matter of who is determined eligible, not who signs and where.

Eamonn Brennan writes about the raised academic standards for NCAA eligibility and includes this tidbit.

"...For some, this represents a monumental task, which is why the NCAA estimates that 43.1 percent of men's basketball players who enrolled in 2009-10 would not meet the 2016 academic standards..."

Nor Nor Cal related but...interesting

Gregg Doyel would have to beat extremely longs odds if he ever wishes to be named honorary mayor of Durham. Such will happen the day Coach K goes gray.

Honorary mayor of Chapel Hill? It would seem to be a cinch right now but then Tar Heels fans surely recall this column.

Maybe Doyel, for his own safety, should never set foot in the state, period.

Yes, tem that have the gold, rule.

San Diego State profiled

Athlon Sports previews this season's San Diego State Aztecs, with DJ Seeley who has three consecutive Big Dance appearances on his résumé and Xavier Thames receiving prominent play.

Happy Birthday

For no particular reason: Drew Gooden was born this day back in 1981.

Abensces from Midnight Madness

What's missing from the participants -- Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Baylor, North Carolina, Georgetown, NC State, Syracuse, Murray State, Pittsburgh, Maryland, Florida State and Kansas -- in ESPN's televising of Midnight Madness?

A: The West Coast or actually the west period. Is it because of the three hour time difference?

The new media covering high school sports

Phil Barber writes about the "new media" development and focus on prep athletics, including Nor Cal Preps and MaxPreps. It's a very interesting and informative read.

The recruiting pressure is always there

Chris Johnson writes about the pressures of mid-major recruiting. It's there even if the number of stars, dots, asterisks, etc. next to a prospect's name is three or even two.

Glenn Baral at Westwind

From the Westwind Prep Twitter account: "WPA 6'3" combo guard Glenn Baral very impressive this week as he is now healthy. Coaches all over him now. Hard nosed, athletic, range"

Baral was back east last year and also formerly played for Coach Manny Nodar at St. Mary's.

Two additions to CCSF hoops

Besides the news that Delon Wright had committed to Utah and Shawn Smith to Marshall, City College of San Francisco Coach Justin Labagh had another update.

Lawrence Otis and Delani Robinson, both formerly of McClymonds High, have joined the Rams team. Otis stands 6-foot-4, Robinson 5-foot-8.

About the Wright and Smith signings, Labagh offered, "Wright is a winner -- Coach [Larry] Krystowiak did a really good job recruiting him."

He added, "Smith is a big time athlete who had a big summer. The Marshall coaches first caught him playing in a tournament in Los Angeles" and obviously liked what they saw.

More on Delon Wright

Dan Sorenson/UteZone (a Rivals sub is required) quoting CCSF's Delon Wright who just committed to Utah: "Wright, who is a long guard that can play both the one and the two at the next level brings a versatile skill set to the Utes. "I think I'll fit in very well at Utah. They have athletic guys there that I'll be able to fit in with. They plan on using me as an off guard, but I'll be playing a little bit of one too," he said."

Aguirre lands an offer

dandydonarizona has posted at the Pacific Basketball MB that CCSF big Gabriel Aguirre has collected an offer from Pacific.

Aguirre is listed at 6-foot-10, 240 and averaged 6.2 points and four rebounds per game on 48% overall shooting, 62% from the foul line on a talent-laden team.

Lucas Almeida offers an Aguirre feature.

Josiah Turner asks to be let go

Wendell Maxey has the latest on Josiah Turner's stay in Hungary.

Lee down to two

Erock71 has posted at the Rivals MB that Marcus Lee is down to Cal versus Calipari based on Louisville getting a verbal from a 6-foot-8 prep forward..

Caruso has an offer

Serra's Henry Caruso took in the Chico State campus recently and received an offer. He'll take an official visit in October.

The 6-foot-4 Caruso, who is also a top level student, was an All League WCAL honoree last season.

Here's some video:

Probably no posts this weekend

It may be dark here for the weekend as family matters are requiring some time and focus. We'll get back to posting as soon as possible

JC transfers now need a 2.5 GPA

Mel Grussing has been talking with the four-year coaches visiting Antelope Valley College, zeroing in on the new grade point average  required to be eligible for a basketball scholarship.

Muhic adds a pair of assistants

William Jessup Coach Aaron Muhic has filled out his coaching staff with the additions of George Hernandez and Tyler Brown.

Head here for the details.

Smoke at St. Mary's

Nicole Auerbach @ USATODAY is reporting that the NCAA is investigating St. Mary's basketball over recruiting concerns dating back a few years.

Santa Clara has a visitor

Coach Kerry Keating and Santa Clara are hosting Illinois prepster  Sean O'Brien this weekend.

From this article: "...the 6-foot-6 O’Brien, who has point guard skills, averaged 14 points per game for a 26-win team..."

Iroegbu visiting VT

Former Franklin High guard Ike Iroegbu is tripping to Virginia Tech this weekend. He is at Oak Hil Academy, also in Virginia.

First Annual Catholic School's Winter Classic

Moreau Catholic High is hosting the First Annual Catholic School's Winter Classic (CSWC) on December 22.

It is a one-day event featuring all Catholic schools from throughout northern California. The CSWC will take place at the California State East Bay gymnasium (25800 Carlos Bee Boulevard, Hayward) with the initial game starting at noon and the last one tipping off at 7:30 p.m.

Speaking of the latter, the Salesian - Mitty pairing will feature Jabari Bird matching offensive firepower with Aaron Gordon.

The schedule is:

Noon: Central Catholic (Modesto) versus St. Elizabeth

1:30 Moreau Catholic versus Archbishop Riordan

3:00 St. Mary's (Stockton) versus St. Francis

4:30 St. Patrick - St. Vincent versus Sacred Heart Prep

6:00 St. Joseph Notre Dame versus Junipero Serra

7:30 Salesian High versus Archbishop Mitty

Mark down the date.

1% CLUB Basketball Training in Napa

1% CLUB is happy to announce its partnership with Napa Valley College (Coach Steve Ball) to have a training home for 1% CLUB Basketball Training in the Napa area.

We are so excited to be able to plan our yearly training schedule as well as camps. 

Please visit this link to see our schedule of training which is starting on Sundays, October 7th-November 11th. Steiv Boyd (Director) and I hope to see you once again at some of our training classes, and now thankfully more regularly in that region. 

For this session, we will have our 3rd-5th, 6th-9th, and our J-Glove Shooting Class. We are closing the registration to our Shooting Class to only 12 participants again to maximize the shooting development (2 at a basket). 

Please act early on sign ups so we can continue to offer top training in Napa. Our classes should fill up since our Solano County Chapter will not be having Fall classes (back in Spring). We will be inviting them all over to Napa as well for this session.

Mpre on Josh Akognon from a local source

Phil Barber goes in depth on Josh Akognon.

Manning to visit SUU

Jerina tweeted: "Upcoming visit to Southern Utah for 2013 6'5 F Ryan Manning: Sheldon High School (CA)"

Wright calls it

Bill Oram reports that CCSF sophomore guard Delon Wright is headed to the Beehive State.

It's a little hard to tell right now but a peek at the roster of the team that he's heading to is lacking a point THIS season. There's a 5-foot-10 freshman point and that looks about it.

That makes it two this week for CCSF and Coach Justin Labagh (the other being Shawn Smith giving Marshall a verbal).

Cal Poly not having the best of luck

Joshua Scroggin reports on Cal Poly's injury situation and what that means for a pair of NorCal Mustangs -- Kyle Odister and Drake U'u.

This sounds ominous for other suitors

From Scott Sommer: "2013 PG D'Erryl Williams will take an official visit to #SDSU on October 12, the weekend of Midnight Madness"

A parent's perspective on recruiting

Recruiting. Although this premise may get some degree of argument, it's the foundation for success in college basketball. Do it well (a definition open to interpretation depending on one's position in the equation) and you have a future. Stumble as a coach and it's start ordering the packing boxes.

We've all read accounts of the process involving coaches and players but rarely has the vantage point of a parent been presented..

Here's a take after talking with the father of a three star D-I prospect son who is in the midst of the recruiting proceedings. His offering are in quotations.

"It's like high school dating -- an emotional roller coaster. Coaches get hot and cold. It's like a girl going steady with a boy until a boy with a cooler car comes along."

For the family, there was this experience: "one school sets us down for a big talk, telling us 'we love your son' but then we haven't heard boo from them since."

Yes, the phone calls end, the attention fades but hopefully replaced by a new suitor.

But sometimes, coaches make a return appearance.

"Coaches will call back after being out of touch for a long time saying 'we've been real busy working on our next class but we really love you.' When what has really happened is some more desired prospects declined offers from that school and the situation became 'remember so-and-so, let's call them back up."

Then there was this: "Last year, a handful of coaches come see him at his school in September. This September it’s a new handful of schools with little contact from last year’s schools.”

Followed by this: "When my son was a ninth grader, a coach had us to campus and said 'you're our top recruit  and can't wait to offer when you're older.”

They are no longer hearing from that school.

The father also introduced what was a new term to these ears.

"In some situations you have early offers or what we call projection offers because there are a number of schools in the state and the competition and pressure is there to go after the younger kids, to get a jump on the competition.  Then, the kid doesn’t grow or progress like they expected and they are dropped like a box of rocks."

There was also homework to do and a reality to be discovered by the parents and prospect: "Before all this, we thought if they offered you a scholarship, you signed it and have your four years of school paid for. We didn't know they keep evaluating a kid annually and will cut him if they like a new recruit better.  Some schools have reputations for doing this so make sure your kid is at the top of their depth chart or he may be on the chopping block after his freshman year. Certain schools have much better reputations than others and are committed to seeing the kid through his education."

Regarding advice, a bevy was forthcoming.

*  “Beware that some schools hand out offers like candy.  Sometimes 15 offers for 2 available scholarships.  These are usually the schools that will throw out a lot of early offers or projection offers. Other schools are much more stingy with offers and patiently wait and evaluate the athlete until they are sure. One isn’t better than the other. You just have to be realistic and investigate what type of school is giving you that offer. A great sight is VerbalCommits. It is not totally accurate or up to date but it does give you an idea of which schools hand out the offers like candy.”

* As a warning, "you don't really know you have a legitimate offer until the call to sign the paperwork. They are all verbal offers and verbal commitments until signing day. A verbal offer is still better than no offer but either side can back out at any time. The coaches won’t tell you it’s not a good offer anymore. They just stop calling so you lick your wounds and go on to greener pastures. It all depends on who still wants you when it’s time to sign the letter of intent.”

* "Go to practices as well as games because you can learn so much more about coaching styles through practice."

* "'Do due diligence' as we actually made contact via Facebook with some former players at certain schools in order to solicit opinions about the education and coaches."

Now granted, all of the above is based on a small sampling. Coaching behavior runs the gamut -- good, bad and ugly -- just like it does in any other profession. An education on the process is necessary, much preferably before getting on the roller coaster.

The father closed with "I did fail to mention it has been pretty exciting when a program develops an interest in your son and then follows that up with watching him during the summer. Then it really is exciting when they like him enough to offer. Then it is even more exciting to have them follow an offer up with a visit. When you get the head coach on the phone and at your school then you know they are serious and want your son. Those are the best times!”

Per Scott Sommer: "#SDSU offered Sacramento (Calif.) Sheldon PG D'Erryl Williams. http://mbd.scout.com/mb.aspx?s=356&f=4639&t=9379147 …"

SDSU is rapidly becoming Sacramento South. 

Dunn trips to the OC

Johnny BIL Hernandez tweets: "Mario Dunn 5'11 PG 2013 Salesian HS (Richmond, CA) will take Official Visit to UC Irvine (OFFER) this weekend"

Betcha that becomes a done deal.

New coach named at Valley

Bill Paterson & Joe Davidson note the new basketball coach, Jerod Hyden, at Valley High.

Fenton to head east

Steve Hu tweeted: "@chaosbasketball Per Organized Chaos Coach Chris Stahowski, post prospect John Fenton verballed to the east coast at Colgate @DougBenton"

The 6-foot-8 Fenton plays for Central Catholic High in Modesto and was the co-most valuable player last season in the WAC. 

Pacific also offered.

Colgate plays in the Patriot League and sports a 6-foot-11 senior, a 6-foot-11 junior, a 6-foot-9 senior and a 6-foot-8 junior on its 2012-13 roster so playing time will be available for the earning once Fenton arrives.

Shawn Smith commits

Per Brad Winton: "Shawn Smith (6-6/220/2013) of City College of San Francisco has committed to Marshall."

Out of McClatchy High in Sacramento, Smith is a sophomore with two years of eligibility remaining.

The Marshall program is headed by Tom Herrion and is coming off a 21-14 overall season, 13-4 in Conference USA play. The Thundering Herd participated in the NIT last season.

A sign of the apocalypse

Spurred by a similar recent headline which featured the number 9, we are awaiting the appearance of this:

"High school prospect X down to his final 13"

Las Positas players go four-year

Matt Schwab writes about three Las Positas College players moving on.

NorCal players impacting the Big West Conference

Christopher Hondros offers his selections for impact talents in the Big West Conference. DJ Seeley is positioned #1 plus other NorCal prep talents Josh Ritchart and Ryan Sypkens are also mentioned.

The use of the word potential in the headline is incongruent with the content of the actual article so we imagine someone else penned that.

A bone to pick

Percy Allen covers UW basketball like no other and deserves credit for such but this opening paragraph from his latest post is odd:

Big day for coach Lorenzo Romar, who will reportedly take a trip to San Jose and meet with Aaron Gordon, who is probably the No. 1 prospect on Washington's list.

Not a knock, just an observation but using reportedly and probably in the opening lines, well, that's too far into the iffy category for a pro like Allen.

Will we keep reading him? In the words of the grifter from Wasilla, you betcha.

Cunningham healthy and ready to compete

Eddie Sefko looks at Jared Cunningham's situation with the Dallas Mavericks.

Do the Dookies skate (again)?

From Rush The Court:

Is former Duke forward Lance Thomas destined to become the next Corey Maggette, or worse? For those of you not familiar with the one-and-done freak of an athlete who came off the bench for the 1998-99 national runner-up Blue Devils, Maggette admitted under oath in 2000 as part of a federal grand jury proceeding that he took cash payments in high school from an agent named Myron Piggie, (theoretically) putting his amateur eligibility at considerable risk. The NCAA chose to not vacate Duke’s 37 wins from that season nor did it ask the program to remove its banner — ever since then, Duke haters have pointed to this decision as Exhibit A of the NCAA’s selective enforcement process. Well. Get ready for part two. With the news Tuesday that Thomas had come to a settlement agreement with the New York City jeweler who floated him a $67,800 loan nearly three years ago, the NCAA will need a Deep Throat (or at least a James Carter, IV) if it has any inclination of properly investigating this case. The strong likelihood is that nobody — not Thomas, not the jeweler, not anyone who had a red hand in this transaction — will say anything to to governing body… which begs the question: Will the NCAA make a prima facie case against Thomas to rule him retroactively ineligible (see: Rose, Derrick); or, will they suffer the howling of the masses for what will appear to be Duke getting away with special treatment a second time around (see: Maggette, Corey). Gonna be interesting.

More on Josh Akognon

Wendell Maxey goes into depth on Josh Akognon's Dallas Mavericks scenario. Let's hope Mark Cuban sees the light.

Johnson and Gordon doubleteaming

Via Garrett Tucker: "Darin Johnson says he will visit Washington Sept. 27th with Aaron Gordon; he will visit Texas A&M Oct. 6th"

There's always a reason in recruiting so UW obviously is thinking it's a plus to have them in together.

Whose mind will be changed?

A Dave Telep tweet: "Once we hit October, mid-majors get nervous. HM's start missing targets, come looking for mid level guys. Players, who wants you more?"

Santa Clara gets a shooter

Per Alex Kline: "2013 guard Jared Brownridge of Waubonsie Valley (IL) has verbally committed to Santa Clara, his AAU coach announced"

So Coach Kerry Keating has a prep shooter coming in.

Ivan Rabb chosen

USA Basketball selects BOD's Ivan Rabb, the only northern California talent named.

CCSF's Wright gets the nod

A Jim Basnight tweet: "2013 JC guard Delon Wright was watched by the Lorenzo Romar today and said that they told him that he was 'good enough to play for UW'" 

Romar has yet to offer but that should change soon.

Delon Wright interviewed

Jim Basnight begins his radio program talking with CCSF talent Delon Wright who is being pursued by Washington.

Santa Clara offers a Texas point

Blue Zertuche is reporting (a Rivals sub is required):

Point guard Ken Williams of Houston Episcopal has three offers, South Alabama, Santa Clara, and Wichita State. September 28 is Williams' scheduled visit to South Alabama. Williams also says that he is still receiving interest from Alabama, Texas A&M and LSU.

Here's some 2010 video on the 6-footer:

Akognon to Dallas

Luke Adams writes about Josh Akognon and the Dallas Mavericks. Seemingly something is missing in the report because why would Josh opt out if his chances were slim to none as is indicated?

Darin Johnson has a leader

Joe Soriano writes that Darin Johnson has taken a liking to webbed feet.

Simpson waived

Former St. Mary's talent Diamon Simpson is let go by Houston.

No "American Idol" for Anderson

Former Castro Valley baller Juan Anderson, now a sophomore at Marquette, gets low marks -- for his vocals -- as Eamon Brennan explains.

Lee to visit Kentucky next

Corey Albertson writes about Marcus Lee and Kentucky (a Rivals sub is required) after John Calipari extended an offer:

"Their biggest point is that Marcus doesn't even know how good he's going to be," Bryan [Marcus' brother] Lee said. "They feel like they have been through this process before with guys like Marcus and that they would be the best fit to help him develop into the best player that he can be. They told Marcus that they believe 100 percent he has the talent and that they want to show him the direction.

Lillard three-striping

Damian Lillard has gone with adidas.

Santa Clara on a SoCal HS wing

From Frank Woodford: "Michael Thomas is a 6'5" 190lbs small forward considering #SantaClara #BoiseState #Hawaii and others."

Woodford earlier tweeted that the 2013 Thomas, a prepster out of SoCal, had just tripped to Northern Arizona.

Sonoma State Basketball Coaches Clinic on September 30

The Sonoma State University Men's Basketball program invites all coaches, men and women, to attend the first SSU Basketball Coaches Clinic.

The event will take place on Sunday, September 30th at the Wolves' Den on the campus of Sonoma State University. The clinic begins at 9:00 am.

The event is open to all coaches, from middle school and AAU to college, and will include on-the-court demonstrations and teachings by SSU head coach Pat Fuscaldo and members of the SSU basketball team, plus special guest speakers: Mike Montgomery (Cal), Bob Williams (UC Santa Barbara), and Bill Grier (University of San Diego). All speakers will include on-the-court demonstrations. Each speaker will focus on a specific aspect of the game as they discuss topics such as set plays and special situations, motion offense nd breakdown drills, and match-up zone defense.

Schedule of Events:

8:00 AM:  Registration begins/Coffee & Donuts
9:00 AM:  Pat Fuscaldo (Head Coach, Sonoma State) - Competitive Practice Drills
10:00 AM:  Bill Grier (Head Coach, University of San Diego) - Motion Offense and Breaking it Down
11:00 AM:  Bob Williams (Head Coach, UC Santa Barbara) - Match Up Zone Defense
12:00 PM:  Lunch Provided
12:30 PM:  Mike Montgomery (Head Coach, Cal) - Set Plays and Special Situations
1:30 PM:  Coaches Forum - All Presenters

Cost:

* Pay and Register on or before September 15th: $55
* Pay and Register after September 15th: $65

Includes:

* Morning Coffee & Donuts
* Afternoon Lunch
* SSU Basketball T-Shirt

To register, go here and click on Special Events

Snyder ready to elevate

Ponderosa. It's a pine tree. Also, the ranch home of the fictional television Cartwright family of "Bonanza" fame. But now those nine letters are gaining stature for the turning out of bigs in high school basketball. Initially it was Brad Waldow graduating in 2010 and becoming the starting center at St. Mary's as a redshirt freshman. In 2012, it junior Chris Snyder's turn to shine.

Currently ranked #11 in the Nor Cal Preps 2014 Boys Basketball Top 40, Snyder is a real big, checking in at 6-foot-9 and 240 pounds. Selected as an honorable mention all league honoree based on his 11.4 points and 5.8 rebounds a game (62% from the floor, 76% at the foul line) as a sophomore, he and his teammates participate in the Delta River League (DRL), one of the toughest collection of schools around. Besides Ponderosa, among the other DRL members are Oak Ridge, Pleasant Grove, Sheldon and Jesuit .

New Ponderosa Coach Troy Selvey calls his guy in the middle "a unique player, a prototypical throwback big who you can throw the ball to into the post and he'll be effective."

Steve Reed, Selvey's assistant, pulls no punches on the player he coached on the junior varsity two seasons ago: "Chris is one of the best players in northern California. He's a lefty who is as strong as an ox and has a nice touch."

In asking Snyder to describe best skill, he replied "scoring" and then he quickly added, "I want to get stronger, more athletic and better on defense."

And don't bet against him doing just so because "I love competing and the setting of and reaching goals."

A query regarding his biggest basketball influence elicited a bevy of family history.

"I'd say my grandfather. He was very successful and basketball is something we have in common."

89-year-old Ray Snyder is a Bay Area coaching legend and not too shabby of a player back in his day. He earned All-Conference, All-State and All-American honors at the College of Marin (COM) in 1948, the year COM won a national championship. Ray Snyder then went on to play for Slats Gill at Oregon State and the Beavers finished fourth in the NCAA in 1949. What followed was a career in education while coaching Fremont High, Cupertino High, Homestead High and Monta Vista to over 600 basketball victories.

So there's quite the family roundball lineage.

Here's Selvey again on his protege during the summer: "Chris is rebounding at a high level and running the floor better. He has barely scratched his surface but with his size, skill and work ethic, he will be something."

Reed also had more to say: "This will be Chris' breakout year. He is further along in his junior year than Brad Waldow was."

Maybe even more importantly, Reed also explained, "when something is wrong [as a team], Chris is one of our leaders and takes ownership."

Academically, Snyder earned a 3.3 grade point average last year and is now enrolled in two AP courses.

Here's a forecast: start looking for an increase in automobile traffic in and around Shingle Springs beginning in November, this season and next, in the area of the Ponderosa High gymnasium specifically.

The rare sight of a real big will be on display.