Shoemaker stands 6-foot-8 and averaged 15.2 points plus 9.2 rebounds a game this season.
The Tritons finished 24-8 overall in 2015-16 and 15-5 in the California Collegiate Athletic Association.
Saturday, April 30, 2016
Shoemaker to UC San Diego
Shoemaker stands 6-foot-8 and averaged 15.2 points plus 9.2 rebounds a game this season.
The Tritons finished 24-8 overall in 2015-16 and 15-5 in the California Collegiate Athletic Association.
Lyon going with Sierra College
Wallace to MPC
Heritage Athletics: "Congratulations to Marcus Wallace '16, on his commitment to Monterey Peninsula College to play Basketball next year! Way to go Marcus!"
"Local Sports Hero - Marcus Wallace" -- Michelle Lassle
Wallace is a 5-foot-9 point and was an All-Bay Valley Athletic League selection this season.
Cal Hi Sports' All State First and Second Team Juniors (Nor Cal honorees)
FIRST TEAM JUNIORS (15)
* Joey Calcaterra (Marin Catholic, Kentfield) 6-2 G
* Alfred Hollins (Sacred Heart Cathedral, S.F.) 6-5 F
* Damari Milstead (Moreau Catholic, Hayward) 6-2 G
* Ja’de Smith (St. Joseph Notre Dame, Alameda) 5-10 G
SECOND TEAM JUNIORS (15)
* Souley Boum (Technical, Oakland) 6-3 G
* Elishja Duplechan (Sheldon, Sacramento) 5-9 G
* Tydus Verhoeven (Manteca) 6-7 F
CalHiSports' All State sophomores (the Nor Cal honorees)
Boys BB: All-State Sophomores (the Nor Cal honorees)
FIRST TEAM SOPHOMORES (20)
* James Akinjo (Salesian, Richmond) 5-10 G
* Junior Ballard (Lathrop) 6-2 G
* Jordan Brown (Woodcreek, Roseville) 6-10 C
* Naseem Gaskin (Bishop O’Dowd, Oakland) 5-11 G
* Michael Hayes (West, Tracy) 6-4 G
* Elias King (Christian Brothers, Sacramento) 6-7 F
* Lunden Taylor (San Joaquin Memorial, Fresno) 6-1 G
* Jake Wojcik (Bellarmine, San Jose) 6-5 F
STATE SOPHOMORE OF THE YEAR:
* Jordan Brown (Woodcreek, Roseville)
Chabot loading back up
Not boding well for selection in the draft
Jeff Goodman: "Kentucky's Marcus Lee is on the alternate list for the NBA Draft Combine, a league source told ESPN."
More on the recruitment of Chabot's sophomores
Chriss receives good but not unexpected news
Adam Zagoria: "Washington's Marquese Chriss ... invited to the NBA Combine, sources tell @SNYtv"
It's not an unexpected development for Chriss.
It's not an unexpected development for Chriss.
Cornish not coming to Cal
"UNLV transfer Jordan Cornish de-commits from Cal" -- Connor Letourneay/San Francisco Chronicle
Cuonzo Martin had recruited Cornish while at Tennessee.
Cuonzo Martin had recruited Cornish while at Tennessee.
Friday, April 29, 2016
JoJo to the Midwest
He's a 6-foot-5 guard out of Dublin High who spent this season at Diablo Valley College but didn't play. Coming off a 5-27 season with what will be a second-year head coach, Bradley offers an excellent opportunity to earn playing time. Nobody on the team averaged double figures, five freshman dot the 2016-17 roster and there are no upperclassmen backcourters other than McGlaston.
Congrats to JoJo.
The Tigers sign a Montague (no word on any Capulet)
A companion piece.
Written earlier today:
Jamie Shaw: "Pacific, San Diego, Cleveland St are latest to reach out to 5'11 Unsigned Sr Keshon Montague (Mountain Mission)." Montague averaged 8.7 points and 3.2 assists in 2015-16. According to Verbal Commits, Central Connecticut State has offered. It looks like he is originally from Canada.
Mountain Mission is a school located in Virginia that brings in kids from around the world. The team went 29-8 this season.
Sac State signs a Kiwi
Sacramento State head men's basketball coach Brian Katz announced the signing of New Zealand guard Izayah Mauriohooho-Le'afa to a National Letter of Intent today.
Mauriohooho-Le'afa (pronounced Mo-dee-ho-ho Lee-ah-fuh), who becomes the first New Zealand-born player in men's basketball program history, will enroll as a freshman at Sacramento State this fall. He joins Notre Dame High School forward/guard Chibueze Jacobs and Beyer High School guard George Dancer as the three players to sign with the Hornets for the 2016-17 season. Jacobs signed earlier this month and Dancer committed to Sacramento State during the early signing period in November.
Mauriohooho-Le'afa, who is a 6-foot-2, 195-pound guard from Wellington, New Zealand, graduated in December of 2014 from St. Patrick's College (high school) in Wellington. He spent three years playing professionally for the Wellington Saints of the National Basketball League (NBL), which is the top league in New Zealand.
In fact, Mauriohooho-Le'afa has had numerous professional stops in New Zealand. That includes being selected to play as a 16-year old for the New Zealand national team in 2013 when he was the youngest player on the squad. That team is nicknamed the Tall Blacks, and selects only the top players from the New Zealand NBL. Later, in 2015, he was selected to play for the Tall Blacks' Olympic qualifying team.
Mauriohooho-Le'afa, who started playing basketball at five years old, was also the captain for the U-19 Junior Tall Blacks national team in 2014. In addition, he represented New Zealand at a 3-on-3 tournament at the 2014 Summer Youth Olympic Games where his team reached the 16th round of the competition.
As a prep, he played four years at St. Patrick's College, where he was the starting point guard each of his final three seasons. Mauriohooho-Le'afa averaged over 20 points per game during his last two years and was named the school's Sportsman of the Year and team MVP during each of those seasons. He helped St. Patrick's to a league championship in 2013.
"We are excited about the addition of Izayah to our program," Katz said. "He is a very skilled player that can play both the point and off guard positions. Izayah can really shoot the basketball and has a big, strong body. We like the fact he has spent the last few years playing against older, more mature players and the level of competition he has faced exceeds most high school players that are entering a collegiate program."
Mauriohooho-Le'afa has basketball in his bloodlines as his father, George, was a point guard and won multiple NBL championships as a player for the Wellington Saints. His father was also an assistant coach for Wellington during Izayah's final two seasons with the club.
Mauriohooho-Le'afa has plenty of rugby-playing experience, including a stint with the rugby squad at St. Patrick's.
Sacramento State is coming off a 2015-16 season in which the team posted a 14-17 record, won three of its final four games, and beat Montana State in the first round of the Big Sky Conference Tournament. The Hornets will return six of their top eight scorers from a year ago, including leading scorer Justin Strings and second leading scorer Marcus Graves.
A scouting report from July 2015:
The youngest candidate has already had his fair share of exposure to high level basketball while only being one year removed from high school. Another to experience a taste of men’s international basketball, once again, proved he is able to step up and play with the big boys. It is often the case that some of the best age-group players struggle to maintain a cool head and their confidence when thrown amongst men. Le’afa, however, relishes these opportunities and his every bit the same player whichever level he is playing in on a given night.
Converting on 31% from three during the latest NBL season confirms Le’afa as the best shooter of the bunch. The kid with the smooth stroke was a fortunate recipient of some great passing sequences from the Wellington Saints this year. He provided an instant offensive threat off the bench and demanded to be marked beyond the arc.
The only real question mark around Le’afa is whether he is a point guard? Or is he really just a shooting guard in a point guard’s body? It’s definitely too early to pigeonhole him in to a position, rather, as he does with the Saints, he should continue to get freedom off the bench in a combo guard position to create offense. I’d like to wait a couple more years to see how is body develops before saying he can’t do this or that. As with all three prospects, increased exposure to high-pressure defense will only improve ball security and decision-making."
Three Hornets honored for academics
Sacramento State Winter 2015-16 Big Sky All-Academic Selections
Men's Basketball
Justin Strings - So. - Communication Studies
Eric Stuteville - Jr. - Sociology
Jeff Wu - Fr. - Communication Studies
To be eligible for Big Sky all-Academic honors, a student-athlete must have met and/or exceeded the following minimum requirements:
1) Participated in at least half of the team's competitions
2) Achieved a 3.2 cumulative grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) at the conclusion of the most recently completed term
3) Completed at least one academic term at his/her current Big Sky institution
It's not illegal but...
The Montana State coach has a cold heart. Team captain to being cut? Yes, college hoops is a win-or-else business but was Terrell Brown really an impediment to Montana State's success? The Bobcats finished 14-17 this season.
"Colorado HS standout Terrell Brown overcomes a nightmare to live his dream and earn degree" -- Nick Graham/Miles High Sports
"Colorado HS standout Terrell Brown overcomes a nightmare to live his dream and earn degree" -- Nick Graham/Miles High Sports
This is a really good look
"How will Ivan Rabb’s return to school affect his NBA future?" -- J.Z. Mazlish/Upside & Motor
Thursday, April 28, 2016
MJC's Hatfield to Dominguez Hills
6-foot-7 freshman Michael Hatfield, out of Manteca High and Modesto Junior College, has committed to Cal State Dominguez Hills of the California Collegiate Athletic Conference. He averaged 11.3 points plus 6.4 rebounds and enjoyed a particularly strong second half of the season.
Gion to the Seawolves
John Bynum: "Jackson Gion (Foothill) has committed to Sonoma State. Gion averaged 15.6 points, 6.6 rebounds and 3.4 assist last season for the Owls."
Here's a January feature on Gion, a 6-foot-3 sophomore guard out of Bellarmine College Prep.
Solis to the Keelhaulers
This season, he averaged 5.2 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 32 games (six starts, 18 minutes a contest). He shot 44%, 47% and 84% respectively. Solis is out of Concord High.
Terrell Brown & Oscar Frayer signing photos
Terrell Brown signed with San Jose State University and Oscar Frayer with Grand Canyon University on the Moreau Catholic High campus on Wednesday.
(left to right) Oscar Frayer, Coach Frank Knight and Terrell Brown
(left to right) Terrell Brown, Coach Frank Knight and Oscar Frayer
(left to right) Oscar Frayer and Terrell Brown
Noah Allen tripping to Hawaii
Former Palma High star Noah Allen, a junior at UCLA, will be visiting Hawaii soon. It looks like he will have earned his degree in three years and is looking to use his final year of eligibility elsewhere.
Brian McInnis: "Lastly, UH is looking at a graduate transfer in UCLA wing Noah Allen. Allen is due in later this week.
The 6-foot-7, 215-pound Allen has played sparingly for the Bruins the last three years, averaging 1.2 points and 1.2 rebounds for a traditional powerhouse. Think of him in the mold of a Sai Tummala, a guy waiting for his chance. However, unlike Tummala, he’s not known for his 3-point shot. Allen shot 6-for-22 overall last year, so this isn’t exactly Gavin Smith we’re talking about.
One thing Hawaii has going for it in the coming season is the promise of playing time, and someone like Allen could be a sponge for those minutes..."
Brian McInnis: "Lastly, UH is looking at a graduate transfer in UCLA wing Noah Allen. Allen is due in later this week.
The 6-foot-7, 215-pound Allen has played sparingly for the Bruins the last three years, averaging 1.2 points and 1.2 rebounds for a traditional powerhouse. Think of him in the mold of a Sai Tummala, a guy waiting for his chance. However, unlike Tummala, he’s not known for his 3-point shot. Allen shot 6-for-22 overall last year, so this isn’t exactly Gavin Smith we’re talking about.
One thing Hawaii has going for it in the coming season is the promise of playing time, and someone like Allen could be a sponge for those minutes..."
Fortier moving back east
Jeff Goodman: "Drexel coach Zack Spiker will hire Paul Fortier to his staff, source told ESPN. They were on same staff at Cornell."
The former St. Ignatius College Prep star has been the associate head coach at Cal Poly the past three seasons.
The former St. Ignatius College Prep star has been the associate head coach at Cal Poly the past three seasons.
Lucious Brown of the Jags hitting San Francisco State
San Jose City College Men's Basketball: "SJCC Recruiting update. SG/SF Brown visits San Francisco State. Still a few weeks away from deciding his future."
The 6-foot-4 sophomore averaged 12.7 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game this season.
The 6-foot-4 sophomore averaged 12.7 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game this season.
Chabot's Cox with a Western Athletic Conference offer
Chabot Men's Basketball: "Seth Cox has received an offer from Chicago State University. CSU competes in the WAC and is the first official D1 offer for the 7'0 center."
Four Nor Cal prospects from the SoCal Hoop Review
Devin Ugland after viewing players at Gerry Freitas' SoCal Hoop Review:
"...There were plenty of standouts on the Oakland Soliders 16U squad, led by heady 2018 point guard James Akinjo. There was really no stopping the 6-footer as he weaved his way into the spots he’s most successful and setting up teammates for easy buckets.
One guy who benefitted from Akinjo’s selfless play was 2019 wing Josh Green. At 6-feet-4, Green is a prototypical two-guard who plays with pace and patience. The native of Australia was up near the top of the “prettiest jumper” category that weekend.
Six-foot-7 forward Mason Forbes (2018, Folsom) and 6-foot-8 forward Raymond Hawkins (2019, Bishop O’Dowd) are already well-known products in Northern California and rightfully so. Both are talented young big men who have bright futures if they continue to hone their craft..."
"...There were plenty of standouts on the Oakland Soliders 16U squad, led by heady 2018 point guard James Akinjo. There was really no stopping the 6-footer as he weaved his way into the spots he’s most successful and setting up teammates for easy buckets.
One guy who benefitted from Akinjo’s selfless play was 2019 wing Josh Green. At 6-feet-4, Green is a prototypical two-guard who plays with pace and patience. The native of Australia was up near the top of the “prettiest jumper” category that weekend.
Six-foot-7 forward Mason Forbes (2018, Folsom) and 6-foot-8 forward Raymond Hawkins (2019, Bishop O’Dowd) are already well-known products in Northern California and rightfully so. Both are talented young big men who have bright futures if they continue to hone their craft..."
Bay Area Memorial Day Classic May 28-30
There will be four high school divisions (17 elite, 17 varsity, 16u, 15u), with a championship in each division on Monday the 30th. Media in attendance will include: norcalpreps.com, californiapreps.com, ihigh.com, hoopreview.net. A post event report will be sent to these and various other web sites in addition to college coaches nation-wide.
For more information contact Gerry Freitas at 408-998-1327 or email: gerryfreitas@hotmail.com or visit the website: hoopreview.net.
Space is available only in the 17u divisions at this time.
The momentum of Souley Boum
Over the weekend wasn't the first time Boum put his shooting range and accuracy, athleticism, ballhandling and overall production on display but this effort finally bore fruit when UC Davis offered. Also, Santa Clara, Nevada, USF and San Jose State University are now taking in-depth looks.
Yes, Boum isn't a four or five star national recruit but why the timing until the spring of his junior year for his first offer? In the 2015-16 high school season, he shot 53% or plus 49% on 132 three-point attempts. That is high level and efficient accuracy and when both playing as a team within an offensive framework plus defensive efforts are the strongest. Sure, the talent levels of most spring and summer travel ball matchups are usually higher but the overall play is generally much more undisciplined on both sides of the ball.
It would seem in Boum's case that teams in need of a backcourt upgrade would have been on him much earlier. Maybe the changes in coaching staffs at Pacific, Santa Clara and USF played a factor in the tardy interest in Boum but there was no mention of the earlier staffs at those schools displaying any enthusiasm.
So why not earlier?
Cal get a grad transfer guard
Jeff Borzello: "Columbia grad transfer Grant Mullins tells ESPN he has committed to California. Eligible immediately."
13.1 points per game, a 113/46 assist-to-turnover ratio, he gets to the foul line (130 attempts) and shot 43% from long distance.
13.1 points per game, a 113/46 assist-to-turnover ratio, he gets to the foul line (130 attempts) and shot 43% from long distance.
Beckler to Cal Maritime
Tokay High's Collin Beckler is headed to Cal Maritime in Vallejo -- "Beyond blessed and honored to say I've committed to Cal Maritime to continue my academic and basketball journey."
He's 6-foot-5, 210 and averaged 13.4 points plus 9.0 rebounds this season.
He's 6-foot-5, 210 and averaged 13.4 points plus 9.0 rebounds this season.
Clayton looking at Illinois State
Guard/wing D.J. (Castro Valley High) Clayton is tripping to Illinois State this weekend.
He was at Western Kentucky as a freshman and played this season at Palm Beach State College in Florida.
He was at Western Kentucky as a freshman and played this season at Palm Beach State College in Florida.
Pacific offers 2017 Land of 10,000 Lakes guard
Ryan James: "Maple Grove/Howard Pulley guard Brad Davison was offered by Elon, Pacific,& Wofford. @braddavi34 is a 2017 6-3 guard who can play both spots."
Minnesota seems like new recruiting territory for the Tigers.
Minnesota seems like new recruiting territory for the Tigers.
U'u looking for new hoops home
Jeff Goodman: "San Diego State junior guard Parker U’u is transferring, source told ESPN. Will be able to play final season immediately."
"SDSU’s U’u will graduate and transfer" -- Mark Ziegler/San Diego Union Tribune
"SDSU’s U’u will graduate and transfer" -- Mark Ziegler/San Diego Union Tribune
Seeley with more press
"UA & NIKE STOCK BOOSTERS" -- Corey Evans
His article contains: "CHRIS SEELEY, PF, SPLASH CITY, 2016: While he didn’t end his stay in Indy as he might have liked, Chris Seeley made a large statement in front of a throng of college coaches on Friday evening. The hard playing and tough big man looks to be one of the best unsigned big men nationally and did major work from 20-feet and in. Seeley showed off the ability to hit the perimeter jumper with his feet set yet it was his dominance in the lane that really impressed. He scored the ball through contact at the basket, rebounded his area, and changed shots on the defensive side of the floor. He tallied double digit rebounds in every contest but one and because of it, received offers from San Francisco and UTEP at the conclusion of the event."
His article contains: "CHRIS SEELEY, PF, SPLASH CITY, 2016: While he didn’t end his stay in Indy as he might have liked, Chris Seeley made a large statement in front of a throng of college coaches on Friday evening. The hard playing and tough big man looks to be one of the best unsigned big men nationally and did major work from 20-feet and in. Seeley showed off the ability to hit the perimeter jumper with his feet set yet it was his dominance in the lane that really impressed. He scored the ball through contact at the basket, rebounded his area, and changed shots on the defensive side of the floor. He tallied double digit rebounds in every contest but one and because of it, received offers from San Francisco and UTEP at the conclusion of the event."
Malou & eligibility
Yep, Emmanuel Malou's entering the NBA draft is connected to his collegiate eligibility. Maybe his time clock too.
Tuesday, April 26, 2016
Puliceno to Western Oregon
Out of Burlingame High, he's heading to a very successful program, one which made it to the DII national semifinals this past season. Jim (Washington/St. Mary's) Shaw is a very well-regarded coach
Here's a Puliceno feature from February.
Boum getting some pursuers
The NorCal Report: "Souley Boum (@BucketsForSale_) of @teamlillardaau is receiving interest from Santa Clara, Nevada, USF, San Jose St."
Dunbar hitting USF
CCSF Men's Basketball: "Sophomore Trevor Dunbar to visit USF Hilltop on Monday."
Not seeing a point on the roster of the Dons so...
Not seeing a point on the roster of the Dons so...
One of three more for UC Davis
Splash City: "S/O #SplashCity 17u Darrin (@UserDpj32) Person Jr receives offer from UC Davis."
He's 6-foot-5, 215 and out of Immanuel High in Reedley. His play in 2015-16 earned him Fresno Bee Co-MVP honors.
He's 6-foot-5, 215 and out of Immanuel High in Reedley. His play in 2015-16 earned him Fresno Bee Co-MVP honors.
UC Davis with another offer
The NorCal Report: "2017 G Souley Boum (@BucketsForSale_) of @teamlillardaau has received an offer from UC-Davis."
Yet another Davis offer to a Midwesterner
NebraskaHSHoops: "UC Davis has offered 2017 Omaha Elite and Norfolk F Logan Strom (@LoganStrom_0)"
He's 6-foot-8, 230.
Here's a January feature on Strom.
He's 6-foot-8, 230.
Here's a January feature on Strom.
An update on Ofoegbu
Jeff Goodman: "San Fran grad transfer Uche Ofoegbu said he visited Boise State last week, plans to visit Texas Tech and Creighton in next week."
The conundrum of Kyle Wiltjer -- Jacob Eisenberg/Draft Express
Stopping Gonzaga's Kyle Wiltjer offensively is an impossible task simply because of his repertoire:
"...Wiltjer's biggest asset as a prospect comes with his accuracy from deep. He has a high and quick release with legitimate NBA range, making him extremely difficult to guard at his size. Wiltjer hit on 89-of-203 (43.8%) perimeter shots in his senior year, along with an impressive 51-for-118 (43.2%) rate on contested catch-and-shoot opportunities. Moreover, Wiltjer has expanded his shooting ability beyond mere set shots. In his senior year, Wiltjer converted on 33-of-74 (44.6%) jump shots taken off of the dribble in the half court – an impressive rate for a player with a slow first step and average ball-handling ability..."
So why isn't he considered an NBA prospect? Simply put, his lack of any NBA physical assets:
"...Defensively, Wiltjer's physical profile raises all sorts of red flags. His lateral quickness is nonexistent, and while he's worked diligently to improve his core strength and balance, it's still a noticeable liability in his game, as he often looks like he's playing on stilts. He rarely contains penetration and doesn't show much ability to navigate around a screen, consistently setting up unfavorable mismatches. He's improved his defensive stance since his Kentucky days, but it still looks awkward and doesn't do much to aid his balance or lateral quickness. He tries to compensate with his lack of agility by cheating on defense through anticipating where drivers will attack, yet he can be shaken off balance fairly easily with a simple crossover combination. Although he's come a long way as an interior presence since his Kentucky days by increasing his intensity level and competitiveness, it will still likely be tough to find a position for him to guard..."
It's just hard to believe that someone so gifted offensively cannot be an asset to an NBA team but:
"...Again, Wiltjer's body type just doesn't allow him to compete with NBA-level athletes. His lack of lateral quickness and his struggles on the glass will only be exposed further as his competition level improves.
Wiltjer clearly has the offensive skill-set to carve out a niche as a stretch big man in the NBA, but there are major question marks about whether a team could afford to play him if he proves to be as much of a defensive liability as many project. Still, with a strong showing in workouts, he could gain opportunities to prove that his offense is special enough for teams to overlook his shortcomings..."
"...Wiltjer's biggest asset as a prospect comes with his accuracy from deep. He has a high and quick release with legitimate NBA range, making him extremely difficult to guard at his size. Wiltjer hit on 89-of-203 (43.8%) perimeter shots in his senior year, along with an impressive 51-for-118 (43.2%) rate on contested catch-and-shoot opportunities. Moreover, Wiltjer has expanded his shooting ability beyond mere set shots. In his senior year, Wiltjer converted on 33-of-74 (44.6%) jump shots taken off of the dribble in the half court – an impressive rate for a player with a slow first step and average ball-handling ability..."
So why isn't he considered an NBA prospect? Simply put, his lack of any NBA physical assets:
"...Defensively, Wiltjer's physical profile raises all sorts of red flags. His lateral quickness is nonexistent, and while he's worked diligently to improve his core strength and balance, it's still a noticeable liability in his game, as he often looks like he's playing on stilts. He rarely contains penetration and doesn't show much ability to navigate around a screen, consistently setting up unfavorable mismatches. He's improved his defensive stance since his Kentucky days, but it still looks awkward and doesn't do much to aid his balance or lateral quickness. He tries to compensate with his lack of agility by cheating on defense through anticipating where drivers will attack, yet he can be shaken off balance fairly easily with a simple crossover combination. Although he's come a long way as an interior presence since his Kentucky days by increasing his intensity level and competitiveness, it will still likely be tough to find a position for him to guard..."
It's just hard to believe that someone so gifted offensively cannot be an asset to an NBA team but:
"...Again, Wiltjer's body type just doesn't allow him to compete with NBA-level athletes. His lack of lateral quickness and his struggles on the glass will only be exposed further as his competition level improves.
Wiltjer clearly has the offensive skill-set to carve out a niche as a stretch big man in the NBA, but there are major question marks about whether a team could afford to play him if he proves to be as much of a defensive liability as many project. Still, with a strong showing in workouts, he could gain opportunities to prove that his offense is special enough for teams to overlook his shortcomings..."
Checking in on Aaron Gordon
In his second season with the Orlando Magic, Aaron Gordon posted these numbers:
* 78 games, 27 starts, 23.9 minutes
* 9.2 points
* 6.5 rebounds
* 1.8 assists
* 47%, 30% and 69% shooting
Plus this: "Aaron Gordon emerges as a defensive stalwart"
In his initial season, his numbers were:
* 47 games (due to injury), eight starts, 17.0 minutes
* 5.2 points
* 3.6 rebounds
* 0.7 assists
* 45%, 27% and 72% shooting
Gordon would be finishing up his junior year if he had remained at Arizona.
* 78 games, 27 starts, 23.9 minutes
* 9.2 points
* 6.5 rebounds
* 1.8 assists
* 47%, 30% and 69% shooting
Plus this: "Aaron Gordon emerges as a defensive stalwart"
In his initial season, his numbers were:
* 47 games (due to injury), eight starts, 17.0 minutes
* 5.2 points
* 3.6 rebounds
* 0.7 assists
* 45%, 27% and 72% shooting
Gordon would be finishing up his junior year if he had remained at Arizona.
Branson school grad with great degree & playing pro
Jeremy Russotti: "Tyler Gaffaney just finished his 1st pro season in Spain. D3 in college to pro level. http://Www.greenroomtraining.net"
"First professional season in the books. I learned more than I possibly could have imagined and had an amazing experience. Thanks to all my teammates, coaches and CAI Zaragoza for making it a great season. I'm heading flying home tomorrow and can't wait to be back in the bay."
"First professional season in the books. I learned more than I possibly could have imagined and had an amazing experience. Thanks to all my teammates, coaches and CAI Zaragoza for making it a great season. I'm heading flying home tomorrow and can't wait to be back in the bay."
A degree from Claremont Mudd Scripps and also playing professionally -- now that's a package.
Monday, April 25, 2016
Douglas to the Broncos
Also this on Douglas' amazing basketball journey.
Congrats to Akil. Now he can play in front of family and friends plus get an excellent education.
So does he redshirt his first year to add weight and strength? The Broncos certainly could use him right away.
Durr to the Big Sky state
From his participation in the 2015 Bay Area Memorial Day Classic: "Excellent athlete-speed to burn. Solid handler and good passer who is effective in transition pushing the break-pulls up nicely. Good driver/penetrator who has the ability to blow by defenders and he shoots it ok."
Former Ponderosa High big headed to Land of Lincoln
Western Illinois University is in the Summit League. There are two freshmen bigs on the WIU roster but neither made an impact this season.
Good for Chris.
The Gators get a frontcourter
He's a 6-foot-9 sophomore out of Brookside Christian High.
UC Davis diving into the Midwest
From Scott Burgess:
"Joliet West 2017 PG Teyvion Kirk @Ultimate_Saucer picks up UC Davis offer"
Duquesne, Drake and Chicago have also offered the 6-foot-1 point.
"Joliet West PG Teyvion Kirk has the smarts, skills to thrive at next level"
"Jacobs 2017 C Cameron Krutwig @camkrutwig picks up second offer of day! Latest is from UC Davis."
"Cameron Krutwig center of attention for Jacobs"
"Jacobs' Cameron Krutwig grows into role of team leader"
He's 6-foot-9, 270.
"Joliet West 2017 PG Teyvion Kirk @Ultimate_Saucer picks up UC Davis offer"
Duquesne, Drake and Chicago have also offered the 6-foot-1 point.
"Joliet West PG Teyvion Kirk has the smarts, skills to thrive at next level"
++++++++++
"Jacobs 2017 C Cameron Krutwig @camkrutwig picks up second offer of day! Latest is from UC Davis."
"Cameron Krutwig center of attention for Jacobs"
"Jacobs' Cameron Krutwig grows into role of team leader"
He's 6-foot-9, 270.
++++++++++
Mark Miller: "Wauwatosa West/Playground Elite 2017 F Alou Dillon (6-8) picked up an offer from NCAA Division I UC-Davis this evening."
Ryan James: "6-8 2017 PlaygroundElite PF Alou Dillon Jr showed touch from 14-20ft, was really good with touch after contact, liked his fight for position."
Out of Wisconsin, he has multiple offers: Wright State, South Dakota State, Air Force, Green Bay, Sam Houston State, Milwaukee, Southeast Missouri State.
The Aggies offer an Arizona prospect
A 2017 prospect, he's 6-foot-6, 210 and plays as a power forward for Basha High in Chandler, Arizona. North Dakota, Portland, Eastern Washington and Northern Colorado are listed at Verbal Commits as other offers.
Anthony Ray: "Basha HS 6-foot-6 junior forward Gabe McGlothan really impressing this weekend with his nice motor and athleticism."
Simpson University basketball reloads
"Simpson University men's basketball coach Jim Holcomb announces the signing of seven student-athletes for the 2016-2017 season, Nick Rodriguez, Gabe Coleman, Kyle Anaya, Nick Privett, Thomas Scriven, Michael Greene, and Bobby Reeves.
Rodriguez and Coleman are both Redding natives and had stellar careers in high school. Rodriguez is a 5'11 point guard from Shasta High School. He averaged 8.9 points per game, 2.0 assist per game and two steals per game. Coleman is a 6'1 combo guard from Redding Christian High School. During his time at RC he averaged 27 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.9 assist, and 2.2 steals.
5'11 combo guard Anaya is from Atwater High School in Atwater, CA. Anaya averaged 14.1 points, 2.5 assist, 4.4 rebounds and 2.3 steals.
Privett is a 6'8 swingman from Edison High School located in Fresno, CA. At Edison, Privett averaged 5.3 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game.
Monte Vista High School standout Greene is a 6'0 guard who averaged 12 points per game.
Scriven is a 6'2 wing from Crean Lutheran High School in Orange County. This past season Scriven averaged 9.0 points, 6.0 rebounds and 5.0 assist. He also led his team in steals with 1.35.
Rounding out the recruiting class is 6'8 transfer Reeves. Reeves is played two years as a center at Marin College, his originally from Houston, TX. At Marin, Reeves averaged 4.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.6 assist per game.
After graduating five seniors from last season squad, Coach Holcomb is looking for this class to jump in right away and help compete for a Cal Pac title."
Hayes & Company rolling
"Chuck Hayes Basketball 17-and-under team wins NorCal Showcase" -- James Burns/Modesto Bee
9th Annual City Championship Elite 17U, 16U and 15U Boys’ Basketball Tournament
* San Francisco, CA at CCSF
* May 20th to 22nd, 2016
* Hosted by The Bay Area Warriors
* Three Game Guarantee
* $325 per team
The main gym will be the new state-of-the-art CCSF Community Center (Ocean and Phelan) that has three regulation full-courts side by side by side
If you want a spot let me know and I will add you to the list. I will then send out registration instructions about a month before the event. We have sold out the last couple years. Past tourney winners have included: Greenline, Soldiers, Oakland Rebels, Lakeshow, Team 94. Always a great field of teams.
Randy Bessolo
coachrandal@yahoo.com
www.bayareawarriors.org
(415) 418-4568
Johnson with three impressive visits scheduled
Carlos Johnson: "Former UNLV commit Carlos Johnson has set up three visits: Boise State (4/29), Oregon State (5/6), Washington (5/13)."
Didn't see Pac-12 offers coming -- definitely my bad.
Didn't see Pac-12 offers coming -- definitely my bad.
Malou dipping into the draft
Shams Charania: "Iowa State commit, sophomore Emmanuel Malou, filed paperwork to enter the 2016 NBA Draft without immediate agent, sources tell The Vertical."
The guess here would be academic eligibility remains a concern for him because he's not going to get drafted.
The guess here would be academic eligibility remains a concern for him because he's not going to get drafted.
Martin looking hard for a year from now help
"Cal stays active on transfer market" -- Connor Letourneau/San Francisco Chronicle
Cartwright where he belongs
"Bill Cartwright taking USF to new heights, again" -- Joe Davidson/Sacramento Bee
A big thank you goes out to Joe Davidson for his always interesting and prolific output. The Bee is lucky to have him.
A big thank you goes out to Joe Davidson for his always interesting and prolific output. The Bee is lucky to have him.
Sunday, April 24, 2016
Cuonzo Martin will sleep well tonight
Jon Wilner: "Done’s deal: Ivan Rabb’s coming back. #Cal will be a factor next season."
Sunday: Oakland Soldiers 76, Elfred Payton Elite 72
On Sunday in the Nike EYBL series in Indianapolis, the Oakland Soldiers bested the Elfrid Payton Elite 76-72. Alex Barcello was again in the lead with scoring at 21 points with Donnie Tillman providing 13 points plus seven boards. The Solders achieved but four assists in 25 baskets.
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Sunday: SportsU 64, Splash City 55
Splash City went up against SportsU on Sunday in Indianapolis as part of the Under Armour Association series and lost 64-55. Damari Milstead and Joey Calcaterra each scored 14 points but neither shot particularly well. The team went 21-63 overall with just seven assists. Chris Seeley grabbed 11 rebounds.
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Sunday: D3 M.O.A.M Elite 58, Team Lillard 53
On Sunday, in the adidas Gauntlet Atlanta series, Team Lillard17u fell 58-53 to D3 M.O.A.M. Elite. Souley Boum was back with 22 points and teammate Decaurey Brown shot 5-7 on his way to 13 points. The Lillard-ites shot 19-60, producing just five assists.
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Sunday: Texas Elite Basketball 73, Play Hard Play Smart 48
On Sunday, in the adidas Gauntlet Atlanta series, the Texas Elite Basketball team downed Play Hard Play Smart 73-48. Elias King scored more than half his squad's points with 25 and brought down a third of PHPS's rebounds with 13. He shot 6-12 overall plus 13-19 at the foul line. The Sacramento-ites shot 14-48, 3-18 and 17-35.
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Top Flight Elite playing well
The HoopsHype 2016 NBA mock draft
In the 2016 HoopsHype NBA mock draft, Ivan Rabb is at #8, Jaylen Brown holds the #9 slot and Marquese Chriss is penciled in at #20.
Rabb will be deciding by tonight (Sunday) on whether he's in or out. UPDATE: (He's officially out)
Rabb will be deciding by tonight (Sunday) on whether he's in or out. UPDATE: (He's officially out)
Two offers for a senior when there were none
Splash City:
"#SplashCity 17u 6'8 Chris (@seeley1998) Seeley receives another offer from the University of San Francisco"
and
"@seeley1998 Chris Seeley receives offer from UTEP (University Texas El-Paso) #PlayForMore #UAA II Indy #SplashCity"
Seeley is a 6-foot-8 2016 prospect out of Central High in Fresno.
"#SplashCity 17u 6'8 Chris (@seeley1998) Seeley receives another offer from the University of San Francisco"
and
"@seeley1998 Chris Seeley receives offer from UTEP (University Texas El-Paso) #PlayForMore #UAA II Indy #SplashCity"
Seeley is a 6-foot-8 2016 prospect out of Central High in Fresno.
Ali-Faruq Bey checking out two schools
He's a 6-foot-2 guard out of San Lorenzo High and Arizona Western who was injured for the latter half of this season.
Calcaterra making some national noise
Corey Evans: "In a game full of high major recruits, it's Joey Calcaterra that stole the show. Tough, savvy, 3 level scorer, who defends."
Nik Keydeniers and Cal State East Bay
Team Rampage (April 21): "Our Point Guard @TheOriginalLBF went on his visit to Cal State East Bay today"
He's 5-foot-10 and out of Riverbank High.
Video
He's 5-foot-10 and out of Riverbank High.
Video
Donovan Blythe training event
"Eastside's Blythe leading hoops clinic at Terra Nova" -- John Murphy/Prep2Prep
9th Annual City All Star Game @ CCSF April 29
"We will again be hosting the City All Star Game in Memory of Mike Gragnani. The game will be Friday 4/29 at CCSF. We will have a Girls' game at 6:00 and the Boys' Game at 7:30. We will also have a 3-point shooting Contest and a Slam Dunk Contest.
Per CIF rules the game is limited to Seniors only. We will provide the players with a t-shirt uniform that they keep and there will be trophies for the contest winners and the game MVP's. The players participate for free but we do charge $5 for admission for fans which covers the cost of the uniforms, trophies, referees and facility. We typically break-even or lose a little money but if there is a profit it goes to our Bay Area Warriors non-profit.
We typically draw a good crowd and the Seniors have a lot of fun. It is a great way for us to bring the San Francisco basketball community together and for the Seniors to play a final fun game to end their high school careers.
I have compiled the roster of invitees below primarily by looking at the All-League Teams from the BCL, AAA and WCAL. If you have other players who are deserving, please nominate them to me and we will try to include them. In particular we typically need extra girl players. We tend to be short girls players so any girls coaches who are willing to help me in the invitation process I would greatly appreciate it.
I need you to get me the contact info (cell phone or e-mail address) for any of your players who are invited. Please do this as soon as possible so I can give them ample notice.
Thanks for your help!
Coach Randy Bessolo
University High School
http://www.bayareawarriors.org/
Boys City All Stars:
Clayton Ladine, Burton
Dharen Paulino, Burton
Larry Ware, Burton
Joseph Grima, Lincoln
David Loville, Lincoln
Giovanni Mendoza-Ngo, Lincoln
Lavertis Stallings, Mission
Frank Hall, Mission
Anthony Porter, Mission
Jeremiah Batiste, Washington
Jesse Mathews, Washington
John Overturf Washington
Na'im Pickett, Lowell
Nic Gee, Lowell
Caleb Hilladakis, Lowell
Mjaye Lozano, Balboa
Baltizar Mago, Balboa
Zack Wong, Balboa
Noah Consul, ISA
Sidy Sissoko, Leadership
Andre Campbell, Jr., Urban
Nick Lacey, Urban
Austin Brenner, Urban
Micah Elan, Lick
Sean Gilmore, University
Mattie Mrlik, University
Ryan Lipton, University
Zeke Crawford, Stuart Hall
Axavier Byrd, Stuart Hall
Elijah Enis, Gateway
Ike Anigbogu, Gateway
Sterling Biard, Gateway
Nasim Muhammed, Gateway
Will Emery, St. Ignatius
David Saadatnezhadi, St. Ignatius
Jack Coulter, St. Ignatius
Eric Galindo, Riordan
Eddie Stansberry, Riordan
Jason Smith, Riordan
Jamar Williams-Shepard, SHCP
Girls City All Stars:
Francesca Baldwin, Lowell
Tiffany Lowe, Lowell
Brandi Wong, Lowell
Desiree Damian, Balboa
Nina Joyner, Lincoln
Gisela Chin, Washington
Simone House, Washington
Ronnette Herico, ICA
Emani Hall, Mission
Desiree Isles, Wallenberg
Nicole Sato, Wallenberg
Savanna Kofe, Burton
Kendall You Mak, Bay
Amara Norman, Bay
Kendall Sui, Bay
Alegrio Chimel, Gateway
Paola Lean, Gateway
Cardine James, Drew
Frankie Sedar, Drew
CJ Catina, Urban
Kira Waldman, Urban
Chloe Parker, Urban
Iona Tangri, Urban
Maggie Chau, University
Sara Cami, University
Jasmine Sorrells, International
Nahrie Pierce, St. Ignatius
Marissa Fong, SI
Marie Paul, SI
Emma Lucey, SI
Madeline Hatch, SI
Hanna Lee, SI
Daisha Mayfield, SHCP
Shannon Chau, Mercy
Lina Bitar, Mercy"
Per CIF rules the game is limited to Seniors only. We will provide the players with a t-shirt uniform that they keep and there will be trophies for the contest winners and the game MVP's. The players participate for free but we do charge $5 for admission for fans which covers the cost of the uniforms, trophies, referees and facility. We typically break-even or lose a little money but if there is a profit it goes to our Bay Area Warriors non-profit.
We typically draw a good crowd and the Seniors have a lot of fun. It is a great way for us to bring the San Francisco basketball community together and for the Seniors to play a final fun game to end their high school careers.
I have compiled the roster of invitees below primarily by looking at the All-League Teams from the BCL, AAA and WCAL. If you have other players who are deserving, please nominate them to me and we will try to include them. In particular we typically need extra girl players. We tend to be short girls players so any girls coaches who are willing to help me in the invitation process I would greatly appreciate it.
I need you to get me the contact info (cell phone or e-mail address) for any of your players who are invited. Please do this as soon as possible so I can give them ample notice.
Thanks for your help!
Coach Randy Bessolo
University High School
http://www.bayareawarriors.org/
Boys City All Stars:
Clayton Ladine, Burton
Dharen Paulino, Burton
Larry Ware, Burton
Joseph Grima, Lincoln
David Loville, Lincoln
Giovanni Mendoza-Ngo, Lincoln
Lavertis Stallings, Mission
Frank Hall, Mission
Anthony Porter, Mission
Jeremiah Batiste, Washington
Jesse Mathews, Washington
John Overturf Washington
Na'im Pickett, Lowell
Nic Gee, Lowell
Caleb Hilladakis, Lowell
Mjaye Lozano, Balboa
Baltizar Mago, Balboa
Zack Wong, Balboa
Noah Consul, ISA
Sidy Sissoko, Leadership
Andre Campbell, Jr., Urban
Nick Lacey, Urban
Austin Brenner, Urban
Micah Elan, Lick
Sean Gilmore, University
Mattie Mrlik, University
Ryan Lipton, University
Zeke Crawford, Stuart Hall
Axavier Byrd, Stuart Hall
Elijah Enis, Gateway
Ike Anigbogu, Gateway
Sterling Biard, Gateway
Nasim Muhammed, Gateway
Will Emery, St. Ignatius
David Saadatnezhadi, St. Ignatius
Jack Coulter, St. Ignatius
Eric Galindo, Riordan
Eddie Stansberry, Riordan
Jason Smith, Riordan
Jamar Williams-Shepard, SHCP
Girls City All Stars:
Francesca Baldwin, Lowell
Tiffany Lowe, Lowell
Brandi Wong, Lowell
Desiree Damian, Balboa
Nina Joyner, Lincoln
Gisela Chin, Washington
Simone House, Washington
Ronnette Herico, ICA
Emani Hall, Mission
Desiree Isles, Wallenberg
Nicole Sato, Wallenberg
Savanna Kofe, Burton
Kendall You Mak, Bay
Amara Norman, Bay
Kendall Sui, Bay
Alegrio Chimel, Gateway
Paola Lean, Gateway
Cardine James, Drew
Frankie Sedar, Drew
CJ Catina, Urban
Kira Waldman, Urban
Chloe Parker, Urban
Iona Tangri, Urban
Maggie Chau, University
Sara Cami, University
Jasmine Sorrells, International
Nahrie Pierce, St. Ignatius
Marissa Fong, SI
Marie Paul, SI
Emma Lucey, SI
Madeline Hatch, SI
Hanna Lee, SI
Daisha Mayfield, SHCP
Shannon Chau, Mercy
Lina Bitar, Mercy"
Saturday, April 23, 2016
Saturday: Team Lillard 76, Garner Road 70 /// MBA Hoops 63, Team Lillard 61
In the adidas Gaunlet Atlanta series on Saturday, Team Lillard 17u played twice:
Team Lillard 76, Garner Road Basketball 70
Souley (Oakland Tech, 6-foot-2, 2017) Boum was at it again with team bests of 26 points and seven boaords. He shot 9-18, 4-6 and 4-4 overall. Decaurey (Newark Memorial, 5-foot-11, 2017) Brown shot 5-10 on his way to 13 points.
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MBA Hoops 63, Team Lillard 61
Tre (El Cerrito, 6-foot-1, 2017) Gray of the East Bay squad led with 19 points, Darne (6-foot, St. Joseph Notre Dame, 2017) Duckett posted a 12 points, five assist line and Michael (6-foot-9, James Logan, 2017) Steadman Jr. produced 11 points plus eight rebounds.
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Team Lillard 76, Garner Road Basketball 70
Souley (Oakland Tech, 6-foot-2, 2017) Boum was at it again with team bests of 26 points and seven boaords. He shot 9-18, 4-6 and 4-4 overall. Decaurey (Newark Memorial, 5-foot-11, 2017) Brown shot 5-10 on his way to 13 points.
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MBA Hoops 63, Team Lillard 61
Tre (El Cerrito, 6-foot-1, 2017) Gray of the East Bay squad led with 19 points, Darne (6-foot, St. Joseph Notre Dame, 2017) Duckett posted a 12 points, five assist line and Michael (6-foot-9, James Logan, 2017) Steadman Jr. produced 11 points plus eight rebounds.
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Saturday: Expression Elite 61, Oakland Soldiers 60 /// Oakland Soldiers 77, Alabama Challenge 73
On Saturday in the Nike EYBL series in Indianapolis, the Oakland Soldiers fell 61-60 to Expressions Elite. Donnie Tillman led with 14 points and Alfred (Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep, 6-foot-6, 2017) Hollins tallied 11.
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Then the Soldiers faced the Alabama Challenge and notched a 77-73 victory as guard Alex Barcello led with 26 points.
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Then the Soldiers faced the Alabama Challenge and notched a 77-73 victory as guard Alex Barcello led with 26 points.
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Saturday: Pray & Play Players 58, Play Hard Play Smart 55
Saturday opened with Play Hard Play Smart falling 58-55 to the Pray and Play Players at the Adidas Gauntlet in Atlanta.
Mehki (6-foot-1, Natomas High, 2017) Williams finished with 15 points plus six boards in just 19 minutes and teammate Elias (6-foot-7, Christian Brothers, 2018) King scored 12 points in 22 minutes. Jordan Brown again did not appear in the box.
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Then it was the Baltimore Elite 62-58 over Play Hard Play Smart. Renathan Ona Embo paced the Sacramento-based crew with 19 points (7-11 shooting), Elias (6-foot-7, Christian Brothers, 2018) King went 6-7 in finishing with 12 points and Isaiah (6-foot-5, Grant High, 2017) Blackmon totaled 11 on 3-3 shooting from beyond the arc. Again, no Jordan Brown.
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Mehki (6-foot-1, Natomas High, 2017) Williams finished with 15 points plus six boards in just 19 minutes and teammate Elias (6-foot-7, Christian Brothers, 2018) King scored 12 points in 22 minutes. Jordan Brown again did not appear in the box.
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Then it was the Baltimore Elite 62-58 over Play Hard Play Smart. Renathan Ona Embo paced the Sacramento-based crew with 19 points (7-11 shooting), Elias (6-foot-7, Christian Brothers, 2018) King went 6-7 in finishing with 12 points and Isaiah (6-foot-5, Grant High, 2017) Blackmon totaled 11 on 3-3 shooting from beyond the arc. Again, no Jordan Brown.
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Friday & Saturday: Splash City goes 2-1
On Friday in the Under Armour Association series in Indianapolis, Splash City downed the Florida Vipers 73-68 as Chris (Central High, 6-foot-8, 2017) Seeley shot 7-11, 1-2 and 7-9 on his way to 22 points plus 11 boards. Damari (Moreau Catholic, 6-foot-2, 2017) Milstead and Joey (Marin Catholic, 6-foot-3, 2017) Calcaterra each totaled 14 points.
"Through UAA I, Chris Seeley scored a combined 18 games in four games. On the first night of UAA II, the 6-foot-8 forward registered a double-double of 22 points and 11 rebounds. He also sent back two shots and recorded a pair of assists."
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On Saturday, it was Splash City 64-55 over Team Felton as Seeley went for a 16 point, 10 board double-double while teammate Emeka (De La Salle, 6-foot-6, 2017) Udenyi was strong with 12 points plus eight rebounds.
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Splash City: "Chis Seeley (@seeley1998) is getting interest from UTEP & Iowa St. after back2back double-doubles"
Game two on Saturday ended with the Houston Defenders winning 80-73 over Splash City despite Damari (Moreau Catholic, 6-foot-2, 2017) Milstead leading with 26 points on 10-16 shooting.
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"Through UAA I, Chris Seeley scored a combined 18 games in four games. On the first night of UAA II, the 6-foot-8 forward registered a double-double of 22 points and 11 rebounds. He also sent back two shots and recorded a pair of assists."
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+++++++
On Saturday, it was Splash City 64-55 over Team Felton as Seeley went for a 16 point, 10 board double-double while teammate Emeka (De La Salle, 6-foot-6, 2017) Udenyi was strong with 12 points plus eight rebounds.
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Splash City: "Chis Seeley (@seeley1998) is getting interest from UTEP & Iowa St. after back2back double-doubles"
Game two on Saturday ended with the Houston Defenders winning 80-73 over Splash City despite Damari (Moreau Catholic, 6-foot-2, 2017) Milstead leading with 26 points on 10-16 shooting.
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Randles to Cal Maritime
Out of Edison High in Fresno, he played at Fresno Pacific and then Cosumnes River College where he averaged 8.5 points as a sophomore.
Coach Clink & Chico State bringing in a quintet of recruits
"Five for the future" -- Chico State athletics
Five freshmen are coming to Chico: Calvin (San Marin High) Geraci, Spencer (Monte Vista High) LaShells, Isaiah (Sheldon High) Brooks, Malik (Jesuit High) Duffy and Josh Levergne.
Five freshmen are coming to Chico: Calvin (San Marin High) Geraci, Spencer (Monte Vista High) LaShells, Isaiah (Sheldon High) Brooks, Malik (Jesuit High) Duffy and Josh Levergne.
Johnson & Matthews added to Otter backcourt
"Otters Add Johnson, Matthews To Recruiting Class" -- Cal State Monterey Bay athletics
Kahlon up to three offers
Jashandeep (CCSF/Brookside Christian) Kahlon with another offer -- this one from Western State Colorado University. That makes three for the 6-foot-8 frontcourter.
Kahriman big at the Oregon Open Run
The NorCal Report: "2016 @KevinKahriman led @LunardisAAU to a win tonight, finishing with 12 points, 22 rebs, 3 blocks. Idaho was there to watch."
Burlison on Boum in a Friday game
Frank Burlison on Souley Boum: "In a clash between two other California programs, Oakland-based Team Lillard (which was called the Oakland Rebels when NBA standout Damian Lillard played for it) held off Orange County-based Dream Vision, 70-65.
Six-three Souley Boum (a senior-to-be at Oakland Tech) went “boom” on Dream Vision via an explosive 33-point effort while hitting 10 of 19 from the field – including five shots behind the arc – and all eight of his free throws.
I didn’t see a faster player with the ball in his possession Friday night. And he wasn’t credited with a turnover despite going at warp speed most of the evening..."
Six-three Souley Boum (a senior-to-be at Oakland Tech) went “boom” on Dream Vision via an explosive 33-point effort while hitting 10 of 19 from the field – including five shots behind the arc – and all eight of his free throws.
I didn’t see a faster player with the ball in his possession Friday night. And he wasn’t credited with a turnover despite going at warp speed most of the evening..."
Murtha liking Foothill
Darren Sabedra: "Nick Murtha, the Leland point guard who overcame a brain tumor diagnosis last summer to return to the team this winter, said he has been working out at Foothill College this spring, noting that he likes the situation there.
“I still have to get my quickness back,” Murtha said, adding that he will probably gray shirt next year at Foothill."
“I still have to get my quickness back,” Murtha said, adding that he will probably gray shirt next year at Foothill."
Friday, April 22, 2016
Friday: Team Lillard 70, Dream Vision 65
On Friday, Team Lillard defeated Dream Vision 70-65 as part of the Atlanta adidas Gauntlet series. 2017 Oakland Tech guard Souley Boum tallied 33 points, shooting 10-18, 5-10 and 8-8. 2016 teammate 6-foot-7 Michael Wright enjoyed 14 points.
For Dream Vision, Sebastian Much finished with 10 points while 2017 6-foot-8 Tydus (Manteca High) Verhoeven scored six.
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For Dream Vision, Sebastian Much finished with 10 points while 2017 6-foot-8 Tydus (Manteca High) Verhoeven scored six.
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Friday: Indiana Elite 68, Play Hard Play Smart 53
On Friday, Indiana Elite defeated Play Hard Play Smart 68-53 as part of the Atlanta adidas Gauntlet series. No Jordan Brown in this one.
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Friday: NY Rens 86, Oakland Soldiers 85
On Friday, the New York Rens edged the Oakland Soldiers 86-85 as part of the Indianapolis EYBL series.
Alex Barcello shot 8-16 on his way to a team-leading 21 points for the Soldiers and teammate Donnie Tillman contributed 18 points plus eight boards.
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Alex Barcello shot 8-16 on his way to a team-leading 21 points for the Soldiers and teammate Donnie Tillman contributed 18 points plus eight boards.
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Pullman not popular
Valentine Izundu: "So I'm graduating this year with a 3.0+, made the honor roll, and never had an off court issues. And my coach punishes me for it."
"WSU blocks hoops transfer from SDSU" -- Mark Ziegler/San Diego Union Tribune
Iaundu is a center at Washington State, a struggling program which zanily has three underclassmen exploring the NBA draft, including Ike (Franklin High) Iroegbu, as well as another graduating talent who is seeking a different basketball home.
Not good times up in Pullman.
"WSU blocks hoops transfer from SDSU" -- Mark Ziegler/San Diego Union Tribune
Iaundu is a center at Washington State, a struggling program which zanily has three underclassmen exploring the NBA draft, including Ike (Franklin High) Iroegbu, as well as another graduating talent who is seeking a different basketball home.
Not good times up in Pullman.
Green rules the Redding roost, again
"Enterprise’s Green repeats as boys basketball R-S.M.V.P." -- T.J. Holmes/Redding Record Searchlight
Plus, this from Danny Penza: "He'll be at Humboldt State come the fall."
Plus, this from Danny Penza: "He'll be at Humboldt State come the fall."
Stanislaus & Dominican with commits
John Bynum: "Kaelen Mitchell (Grossmont) has committed to Cal State Stanislaus. Mitchell averaged 15.9 points and 5.0 rebounds per game last season."
John Bynum: "Jeremiah Gray (Moorpark) has committed to Dominican University. Gray averaged 14.1 points and 5.4 rebounds last season for the Raiders."
John Bynum: "Jeremiah Gray (Moorpark) has committed to Dominican University. Gray averaged 14.1 points and 5.4 rebounds last season for the Raiders."
Opening at Los Altos High
"McFarlane resigns at Los Altos; school seeks coach" -- John Murphy/Prep2Prep
Nevada's fiscal ceiling
Chris Murray has an excellent article up on the financial difficulties of athletic programs such as Nevada in retaining successful coaches and support staff. It's a financial reality for which there usually is no antidote due to the varying levels of wealth surrounding and supporting schools.
The moral: if you have a winner, appreciate and enjoy them while they are in your backyard.
The moral: if you have a winner, appreciate and enjoy them while they are in your backyard.
Thursday, April 21, 2016
Why the mistakes in professional drafting?
"Successful drafting? It's all about volume" -- Bill Barnwell/ESPN
There's plenty of time to gather information from as many people as a general manager wishes to contact, as much videotape as ever could want to be viewed, various 'tests' as well as in-person interviews -- so why are there so many 'failures in drafting' in the NFL as well as NBA?
It seems reaching because of need can't be the primary or solitary reason (unless a general manager is doing so with every selection which seems doubtful).
The answer: call it the you-don't-know-what-you-have-selected-until-he's-signed-and-in-camp" syndrome. Despite trying to learn everything there is available to know, there remains so much to be determined. Gauging competitive fire and reaction to adversity is an 'inexact science' if you will as is how someone will react when hundreds of thousands of dollars are suddenly in his bank account.
Plus, there's not only determining who has room to grow in body and skills versus who has maxed out as well as who will put in the time and effort in attempting the reach of full potential.
There simply isn't a science to it. It can't be worked out in a lab or on a super computer. Call it the human factor, the immeasurable, on both ends of the equation for which no algorithm can be determined.
Professional drafting is similar to that of signing high school and junior college recruits to four-year schools but a lot less money, methods as well as meticulous effort go into the latter. Yet that works out about the same, too.
There's plenty of time to gather information from as many people as a general manager wishes to contact, as much videotape as ever could want to be viewed, various 'tests' as well as in-person interviews -- so why are there so many 'failures in drafting' in the NFL as well as NBA?
It seems reaching because of need can't be the primary or solitary reason (unless a general manager is doing so with every selection which seems doubtful).
The answer: call it the you-don't-know-what-you-have-selected-until-he's-signed-and-in-camp" syndrome. Despite trying to learn everything there is available to know, there remains so much to be determined. Gauging competitive fire and reaction to adversity is an 'inexact science' if you will as is how someone will react when hundreds of thousands of dollars are suddenly in his bank account.
Plus, there's not only determining who has room to grow in body and skills versus who has maxed out as well as who will put in the time and effort in attempting the reach of full potential.
There simply isn't a science to it. It can't be worked out in a lab or on a super computer. Call it the human factor, the immeasurable, on both ends of the equation for which no algorithm can be determined.
Professional drafting is similar to that of signing high school and junior college recruits to four-year schools but a lot less money, methods as well as meticulous effort go into the latter. Yet that works out about the same, too.
Justin Simon to St. John's
6-foot-5 Justin Simon, out of Temecula Valley High in southern California, was a bigtime recruit for Arizona last year. He received a bevy of accolades from the usual recruiting suspects -- ranked #37 in ESPN's Top 100, Scout's #27 and 24th by Rivals -- as did the Wildcats for acquiring his services.
Here was a June 2015 description: "Justin Simon might be the most important part of the recruiting class though due to the departure of T.J. McConnell, the Wildcats have a need at the point guard spot. Simon, who was the first recruit of the class for Miller, won’t be a one-and-done but will be a solid player for all four years at Arizona. Simon can play both on the ball and off the ball, which will allow Miller to get creative with his lineups."
From an August 2014 Draft Express Simon feature:
"Strengths:
-Great size for his position. Measured 6-5 in shoes. Excellent frame
-Tremendous wingspan. Measured at 6-11
-Big hands
-Gifted athlete. Quick in the open court. Can play above the rim with ease
-Excels in transition thanks to his excellent physical tools
-Can find the open man in drive and dish situations
-Outstanding defender capable of guarding multiple positions
-Moves feet extremely well. Puts pressure on the ball
-Generates blocks and steals. Outstanding rebounder for his position
Weaknesses:
-Limited offensive player in the half-court
-Lacks serious range on his jump-shot. Only made 11 total 3-pointers in 28 games (39 attempts) at the adidas Nations and Gauntlet events this summer
-Average ball-handler in the half-court, particularly with left hand
-Struggles to create high percentage shots for himself and others against set defenses. Shot 40% from 2-point range this summer
-Doesn't have great touch around the rim yet. Not an efficient finisher if he can't simply dunk the ball
-A year old for his class. Will be 20 years old before he's even eligible to be drafted
Outlook: Gifted physical specimen with tremendous potential defensively. Unselfish player who likes to get others involved, but still has a ways to go to round out his offensive skill-level, particularly his outside shot."
As a Wildcat freshman, Simon shot 50% (23-46) but just 1-3 from beyond the arc and a paltry 9-21 at the foul line.
Let's look at this in the context of the annual lamentations about a transfer crisis.
Simon is departing the desert because he desired the opportunity to play more than the 180 minutes he was on the court as a freshman. The player who started ahead of him decided to return to Tucson and a bevy of new talents are coming in, including 6-foot-7 Terrance Ferguson, 6-foot-4 Rawle Atkins and 6-foot-6 Kobi Jordan-Simmons. So Simon is heading to St. John's where he will sit out a season as required for a D1 transfer.
So is this all on Simon for a poor initial choice? Did he choose too high? Is his transfer an attempt to evade quality competition?
Or did Sean Miller and his staff, as well as so many others, overrate Simon?
Or is a combination of multiple factors on all parties?
Simon is your basic basketball conundrum. Core elements were missing from his skills set (shooting range and consistency, separation ability) yet his value as a prospect was still strongly ballyhooed because of what he did show. Arizona was not a good selection on his part if his expectation was to play right away and neither for the Wildcat coaches if they thought he could bring additions that were absent from their pre-Simon roster.
Going to St. John's, especially so with a year to upgrade the weaker elements in his arsenal, simply makes sense. It's currently a step down, if you will, in competition so on-going work on skill deficits in conjunction with playing time a year from now should keep him satisfied regarding playing time. But he must get better offensively or his location won't mean a thing.
A special note:
"Simon, who was ranked No. 9 among the top available transfers by ESPN.com, visited St. John's and coach Chris Mullin over the weekend. He also took a trip to Oklahoma State earlier this month. Providence, New Mexico and Pacific were among the other schools in the mix..."
The 'Stoudamire effect' in action?
Here was a June 2015 description: "Justin Simon might be the most important part of the recruiting class though due to the departure of T.J. McConnell, the Wildcats have a need at the point guard spot. Simon, who was the first recruit of the class for Miller, won’t be a one-and-done but will be a solid player for all four years at Arizona. Simon can play both on the ball and off the ball, which will allow Miller to get creative with his lineups."
From an August 2014 Draft Express Simon feature:
"Strengths:
-Great size for his position. Measured 6-5 in shoes. Excellent frame
-Tremendous wingspan. Measured at 6-11
-Big hands
-Gifted athlete. Quick in the open court. Can play above the rim with ease
-Excels in transition thanks to his excellent physical tools
-Can find the open man in drive and dish situations
-Outstanding defender capable of guarding multiple positions
-Moves feet extremely well. Puts pressure on the ball
-Generates blocks and steals. Outstanding rebounder for his position
Weaknesses:
-Limited offensive player in the half-court
-Lacks serious range on his jump-shot. Only made 11 total 3-pointers in 28 games (39 attempts) at the adidas Nations and Gauntlet events this summer
-Average ball-handler in the half-court, particularly with left hand
-Struggles to create high percentage shots for himself and others against set defenses. Shot 40% from 2-point range this summer
-Doesn't have great touch around the rim yet. Not an efficient finisher if he can't simply dunk the ball
-A year old for his class. Will be 20 years old before he's even eligible to be drafted
Outlook: Gifted physical specimen with tremendous potential defensively. Unselfish player who likes to get others involved, but still has a ways to go to round out his offensive skill-level, particularly his outside shot."
As a Wildcat freshman, Simon shot 50% (23-46) but just 1-3 from beyond the arc and a paltry 9-21 at the foul line.
Let's look at this in the context of the annual lamentations about a transfer crisis.
Simon is departing the desert because he desired the opportunity to play more than the 180 minutes he was on the court as a freshman. The player who started ahead of him decided to return to Tucson and a bevy of new talents are coming in, including 6-foot-7 Terrance Ferguson, 6-foot-4 Rawle Atkins and 6-foot-6 Kobi Jordan-Simmons. So Simon is heading to St. John's where he will sit out a season as required for a D1 transfer.
So is this all on Simon for a poor initial choice? Did he choose too high? Is his transfer an attempt to evade quality competition?
Or did Sean Miller and his staff, as well as so many others, overrate Simon?
Or is a combination of multiple factors on all parties?
Simon is your basic basketball conundrum. Core elements were missing from his skills set (shooting range and consistency, separation ability) yet his value as a prospect was still strongly ballyhooed because of what he did show. Arizona was not a good selection on his part if his expectation was to play right away and neither for the Wildcat coaches if they thought he could bring additions that were absent from their pre-Simon roster.
Going to St. John's, especially so with a year to upgrade the weaker elements in his arsenal, simply makes sense. It's currently a step down, if you will, in competition so on-going work on skill deficits in conjunction with playing time a year from now should keep him satisfied regarding playing time. But he must get better offensively or his location won't mean a thing.
A special note:
"Simon, who was ranked No. 9 among the top available transfers by ESPN.com, visited St. John's and coach Chris Mullin over the weekend. He also took a trip to Oklahoma State earlier this month. Providence, New Mexico and Pacific were among the other schools in the mix..."
The 'Stoudamire effect' in action?
Brown going pro
"Cal basketball star Jaylen Brown headed to NBA" -- Jeff Faraudo/BANG
"Cal’s Jaylen Brown declares for NBA draft" -- Connor Letourneau/San Francisco Chronicle
Brown must be a great interview simply because of his sense of self and place.
Who else would say, "You have my word that I will give back to the community."
Plus, "Using his power as a public figure help others: "This is what it's about, being here at Cal Berkeley among people who want to change world."
"Cal’s Jaylen Brown declares for NBA draft" -- Connor Letourneau/San Francisco Chronicle
Brown must be a great interview simply because of his sense of self and place.
Who else would say, "You have my word that I will give back to the community."
Plus, "Using his power as a public figure help others: "This is what it's about, being here at Cal Berkeley among people who want to change world."
ITaylor goes all in
Adam Zagoria: "Texas G Isaiah Taylor is currently projected at No. 40 in 2017 by @DraftExpress. Will hire an agent for 2016."
40% overall shooting, alongside 28% from long range signifies there remains some easily ascertainable holes in his game. He won't be in the NBA next season but he'll be playing for pay somewhere. Let's see what he does about upgrading his skills set in the next few years.
40% overall shooting, alongside 28% from long range signifies there remains some easily ascertainable holes in his game. He won't be in the NBA next season but he'll be playing for pay somewhere. Let's see what he does about upgrading his skills set in the next few years.
Very interesting piece -- mortality in basketball
"From Walton To The Warriors -- Four decades ago, Bill Walton drove the ball-sharing, transition-breaking, NBA-dominating Portland Trail Blazers. Then he got hurt. So enjoy Golden State in its present greatness"
+++++
This one too is also an informative read: "365 Miles For 73 Wins: A Roadtrip To See Basketball History"
More on the Santa Cruz High talent heading to Malibu
"Santa Cruz basketball star Yee-Stephens commits to Pepperdine" -- Jim Seimas/Santa Cruz Sentinel
Bo Kimble from 2015
"40 Minutes of Hell" -- Bo Kimble
Kimble gets into it but my memory is telling me that Loyola Marymount wasn't the stout defensive juggernaut he professes. Who else recalls Paul Westhead's LMU teams and this aspect?
Kimble gets into it but my memory is telling me that Loyola Marymount wasn't the stout defensive juggernaut he professes. Who else recalls Paul Westhead's LMU teams and this aspect?
Yee-Stephens goes with the WCC
"Yee-Stephens chooses Pepperdine" -- Ryan Silapan/Prep2Prep
Great young man with excellent academics, heading to the most beautiful campus in America and playing in the West Coast Conference.
Cedar City, Utah versus Malibu, CA
Great young man with excellent academics, heading to the most beautiful campus in America and playing in the West Coast Conference.
Cedar City, Utah versus Malibu, CA
The 2016 Team Lillard 17U roster
Here's the roster for the 17u Team Lillard squad that played in Dallas recently:
0 - Souley Boum
3 - Decaurey Brown
5 - Darne Duckett
10 - Tyrell Roberts
20 - Michael Steadman Jr
22 - Tre Gray
24 - Michael Wright
25 - Austin Harris
32 - Camron Reese
44 - Edra Luster Jr
Play Hard Play Smart 17u team
Here's the Play Hard Play Smart 17u squad that played in Dallas recently:
4 - Aidan Green 6'3 Guard 2017
1 - Isaiah Bates 6'7 Forward 2016
2 - Isaiah Blackmon 6-4 Guard 2017
8 - James Williams II 6-4 Guard 2017
5 - Jeremy Lillis 6-8 Forward 2017
3 - Jordan Brown 6-10 Forward 2018
7 - Mekhi Williams 6-2 Guard 2017
6 - Renathan Ona Embo 6-5 Guard 2017
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