Dylan Ennis Discusses Reggae Boys Switch

Posted on by Hoops Hype Canada
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Toronto-born, Brampton, ON native Dylan Ennis started at PG  for Team Jamaica in Canada’s  77-72 victory Saturday night in Toronto.

TORONTO- In two games vs. Team Canada, a Canadian born baller now a member of the Jamaican National squad Dylan Ennis averaged 6.9 points, 1 assist and 1 rebound in 18.5 minutes. Despite Dylan’s role at the moment, Jamaican Assistant coach Richard Polack’s post game presser reiterated Dylan’s future with the Jamaican federation,

“On this team there are few guys who’ve been around before Dylan, Dylan learns very very fast, he picks up things every day but we have some pro’s, we have some vet’s and sometimes you need to get those guys in. But I expect really really big things from Dylan Ennis.”

Dylan Ennis dials up from downtown with father Tony McIntyre looking on.

Dylan Ennis dials up from downtown with father Tony McIntyre looking on.

Ennis arrived at Jamaican camp as advertised, a point guard with tons of athleticism and  a work ethic second to none. Polack said how happy he is to have the 21 year old on board and part of his program,

“I love Dylan, one of my favorite persons in the world, and his work ethic I can’t say enough about it.”

Many wonder why Ennis eventually played for Jamaica and the 6’2 ultra athletic guard explained his decision,

“Me and my father sat down and we wanted to play for a national team, it’s a great thing. I had the option to play for Canada and I had the option to play for Jamaica. My cards fell better with Jamaica so I decided it was the best option for me.” Ennis also let it be known “It’s been a fun experience and yah I’m playing games vs. Team Canada but there’s no hard feelings at all. It’s all just competitive nature”

Ennis helped Jamaica earn bronze in the 2012 Centrobasket.

Ennis, a redshirted incoming sophomore at Villanova was forced to sit out last season after proving himself as a collegiate guard averaging 8 points and 4 assists in 25 minutes for Rice in 2011-12. In his lone season for Rice he also shattered the Rice freshman class record for assists previously set by James Simmons in 1975 (114). When Ennis was asked about his prospects this fall after a long redshirt process he told Hoops Hype Canada (HHC)

“I’m very excited, we have a team that was really good and I’m just trying come in and fit in. I’ve been with them last summer, the whole winter and this summer. It should be really fun, I’ve been very excited for it.” His athleticism and flair saw him sky his way to a hoops-mania dunk crown, and many expect Dylan to step into a big role for the Villanova Wildcats this Winter.

“Dylan Ennis and incoming freshman Josh Hart are expected to compete for minutes right away in their first years of eligibility on the Main Line. Ennis is the real wild card in this group, as he will be forced to adjust from Conference USA to the rough and tumble of the Big East.” Said one Big East expert.

Dylan Ennis collage during Jack Donahue Classic.

Dylan Ennis playing in front of family at home in the Jack Donahue Classic.

Ennis is a former product and proud alumni of CIA Bounce, the AAU program co-founded by his father Tony McIntyre that has played a part in producing talents such as Tristan Thompson, Anthony Bennett, Andrew Wiggins & younger brother Tyler Ennis. Dylan before departing Toronto acknowledged the Bounce program and how influential they’ve been in developing not only him but other high major Canadian talent.

“They’ve (CIA Bounce Co-Founders) done a great job with the kids around here. They don’t do it for the publicity or the networking they do it because its inside the goodness of their heart. I think its developed not just me but everybody in the city” Shared Ennis ” We got players from everywhere its not just Brampton, they’ll take anybody from anywhere. If you can play you gonna play with us… They been so good to me. I never use to travel and play in America when I was younger. As we got into high school they were able to get everybody exposure and it blossomed into what it is today”

 

Check out Dylan’s Hoop Mania Dunk Champion moment:

Also VIDEO of what Jamaican Senior Mens Assistant Coach had to say about Dylan:

 

Exclusive On Career Year For Carl English

Posted on by Hoops Hype Canada

TORONTO- While on a national tour of duty with Canada basketball, 32-year-old Carl English spoke with Hoops Hype Canada (HHC) and elaborated on his spectacular season last winter in Spain. English revealed details of his basketball career that dates back to the days of playing high school basketball in St. Johns, Newfoundland.

Car English at Canada camp with Steve Nash looking on.

Carl English left Newfoundland at 16 years old and moved in with family in the Greater Toronto Area, hoping to enhance his chances of obtaining a college basketball scholarship.

From Newfoundland he landed in Oakville, Ontario. Despite a road block that calendar year when teachers went on strike and wiped out the basketball season, Carl was fortunate enough to draw interest from various mid major colleges, including Notre Dame and Creighton, among others.

Then entered a chance to attend Hawaii University. English was given an opportunity he couldn’t pass up – to attend the university and shine on the basketball court as a Rainbow Warrior. Although he loved the people and the culture, English realized that Hawaii University wasn’t going to give him the NBA exposure he had hoped.

English says, “when you’re in Hawaii it’s difficult for people to see you, because you’re so far away… So from a recruiting standpoint, it was tough for people to see you and like you. It was different but I wouldn’t change it, it’s done. It was a great chapter in my life.”

In his Junior year, English achieved his primary goal off the court, receiving a diploma from Hawaii University. Before making himself a household name in Europe, English flirted with the NBA. He received a two-year partial contract with the Indiana Pacers, but never played regularly in a Pacer uniform. Still, he was kept in high regards by the Pacers president at the time – Isaiah Thomas. When Larry Bird took over the Presidential reigns from Thomas, English became a victim of a numbers game.

Draft day 2003. English and childhood sweetheart and wife Mandy.

“Being undrafted was extremely difficult. Isaiah (Thomas) really liked me but Larry (Bird) came in,” English explained. “In a numbers game, I was lowest on the totem pile…they just signed Jermaine (O’Neal) to a huge contract and luxury taxes played a part.”

Following his stint with the Pacers, English was given an opportunity with another NBA team – the Seattle Supersonics. With his NBA career not panning out as he had hoped, and a realization that he was not getting any younger, English began contemplating the NBDL route.  Attracted by the prospect of a steady salary, English landed in Europe. English first played in Italy, then Croatia, followed by Spain, where English and his family have made their home for the past 6 years.

In his first five years in Spain, English lived the dream, despite not being in the NBA. Nonetheless, he’s played for what is arguably the second best league in the world. During the 2011-12 season with Estudiantes club, 31-year-old English decided to take  a step back and re-evaluate his game. It provided to be a successful tactic, with English managing to surge his career to new heights that he had never before reached.

“I felt the previous season, I could’ve done a lot more to help the team but the coach didn’t use me enough,” he said, referring to his 15 minutes of court time per game. “I came in there (into next season) pretty upset. I really buckled down all summer and came in there with a chip on my shoulder,” English said.

With Canada Basketball’s World Cup qualifying campaign on the horizon and a personal vendetta to return to the elite level of the ACB, English flourished and so did his club.

“When things were going well we qualified for the Kings Cup for the first time in like 5 to 6 years… we also battled for the playoffs,” English said. This was a remarkable accomplishment considering Estudiantes was dwelling in the bottom of the ACB standings the previous year.

“I kind of wanted to take them under my wing,” said English, who averaged a league high 17.2 points and drew heavy interest from Barcelona, one of the biggest clubs in all of Europe.

“As a basketball player you always want to play at the highest level. My dream has always been to play in the NBA,” he said. This dream is not farfetched for the Spanish league star.

English continues to set goals for himself and work towards them. He said, “As of today I am with Estudiantes… within Spain or Europe I want to be on a high-level European club and play two times a week.”

English nearly made the switch to Catalan giants, Barcelona, earlier this year. He explained, “I almost went to Barcelona, it was very close. I wanted the second year, they just wanted (contract) for the 5 months, which I completely understand at that point in time… It’s been a slow process this year based on the market and European basketball.”

Although English isn’t certain what will happen with his career path, it appears that at the age of 32, he has only scratched the surface of a long legacy.

English said that if the association comes calling, he is prepared to take on the opportunity. “Still keeping the hope alive…the thing NBA teams got to realize is if you play at a high level in Europe you’re pretty good. You can come in there… and help right away. Pablo (Pirgioni) got in the playoffs, Anthony Parker did the same thing and even Alan (Anderson) was huge for the Raptors this year,” he said.

English’s dream to rejoin the NBA is still alive. A chance to lead Canada to the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain could only enhance his chances.

2013 Carl at Team Canada invitee Camp in Toronto, Ontaio.

For more on the Carl English story, including the ups and downs of his amazing basketball journey, listen to our one-on-one interview.

By: Mark Bairos

Levon Kendall Future Uncertain

Posted on by Hoops Hype Canada

2013 Team Canada SMNT camp invitee Levon Kendall’s future remains a mystery and its early August. 6-ft-10, 29 year old Canadian baller from Vancouver, BC opted out of a contract with Blusens Monbus Obradoiro of the Spanish ACB a few weeks back with the aim of siginig a contract with a team of higher standards in the ACB League also known as the Liga Endesa for sponsorship reasons.

Levon Kendall.

Kendall agreed to pay a clause and opt out of a contract with his former club with intentions of getting a better contract with a top team in Spain and his decision may have back fired.

Unicaja Malaga was first interested in Kendall but later was ruled out. Then Bilbao Basket started to show strong interest taking on the Canadian but Kendall was a only a second option if the club failed to land German Gabriel.

Levon Kendall, Obradoiro CAB.

Other teams that showed the big fella love were Kutxa Labor and Alba Berlin which could make an offer over the next few days. Which would eliminate any concerns Levon and his camp have. Kendall is represented by the same agent as fellow SMNT invitee Carl English. Jeff Zanik of ASM Sports who refused to comment on the situation. Also sources surrounding the Canadian SMNT have all but guaranteed Kendall will be a lock in the Canadian front court along with NBA talents Joel Anthony, Tristan Thompson and Andrew Nicholson.

 

JYD Fantastic Fit For Findlay

Posted on by Hoops Hype Canada

TORONTO - Speaking to Hoops Hype Canada via cell phone from Toronto, newly appointed Findlay Prep Head Coach Jerome Williams spoke sincere about his new coaching gig Wednesday afternoon. Williams will take over for predecessor Todd Simon who served as Associate Head Basketball Coach of Findlay Prep for the past five seasons.

Findlay Prep new head coach former Toronto Raptor Jerome Williams. JYD Served 5 years as a volunteer before his recent promotion.

Parents and prospective Prep players both require patience …

pa·tience [pey-shuhns]
noun- the quality of being patient, as the bearing of provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation, or the like.

Also an ability to persist.

per·sist [pər -zist]
verb- to last or endure tenaciously: The legend of King Arthur has persisted for nearly fifteen centuries.

Patience and persistence is what epitomized the basketball career of former Raptor Jerome Williams, also known as the Junk Yard Dog.

HIGH SCHOOL

Lets just say Jerome Williams came up through High School  “unknown” and that is “putting it politely” according to Williams. In 1992, as an undersized 6-2 forward from Magruder HS, JYD was too small to play forward at Georgetown. Williams appeared headed for American University but opted to go to junior college instead and work on his game. After a freshman season that included countless hours in the classroom, at home, and even at a part time job to afford tuition, it was a tumultuous transition. Except he grew a whole 7′ inches. Thanks to his growth spurt Williams had grown to 6-9, averaging 26 points and 17 rebounds a game at Montgomery College. With newfound size and great SAT scores. Georgetown was very interested. Offering him an opportunty to become a member of the Hoyas for his JR & SR college years. A opportunity to cross paths and inherit tutelage from a legendary hall of fame coach John Thompson. More importantly a chance to exploit and embrace free education from a renowned institution.

Georgetown Hoyas

From 1994 to 1996, Jerome Williams became one of the program’s most proficient
rebounders. Once described as “Dennis Rodman without the attitude”, Williams
helped elevate the Georgetown defense during the Allen Iverson era. In his first
five games with the team, Williams picked up 65 rebounds, part of a junior
season where he averaged 31 minutes a game and 10 rebounds a game. At season’s
end he became the first forward since Reggie Williams (no relation) to lead the
team in rebounds. More notably Williams graduated college with honours. Following the foot steps of his college coach John Thompson. When asked what he absorbed most from Coach Thompson Jerome answered. “Education. He was one of the first coaches who was also a player, played 10 years in the NBA backing up Bill Russell but what resonated with me most was he was just as proud of graduating college.” Also adding “Coach always reiterated what education from Georgetown University could help enable for us in the future”. The college experience was invaluable for Jerome Williams, who called his Georgetown graduation the proudest moment of his life.

1994-1996 Jerome Williams led Georgetown University in rebounding as a SF. Roster included Allen Iverson.

Drafted out of Georgetown University by the Detroit Pistons with the 26th pick of the 1996 NBA draft (the pick originally belonged to the San Antonio Spurs and went to the Pistons in the Dennis Rodman trade), he played four-plus years with the Pistons, becoming one of their key reserves.

Williams work ethic, patience and persistence later paid dividends at the next level. During his tenure under Doug Collins (who had .521 Winning % in 11 seasons as head coach) Williams gained experience under a reputable NBA head coach and in partnership with his older brother Johnnie they in Detroit, established youth groups and created affordable housing options for working class families. With his brother, he founded “Positive Shades of Black”, an education incentive program for elementary school students. Both became visible examples of the importance of education and community involvement, taking on initiatives with much the same passion that drove Jerome in two years of basketball at Georgetown.

With a blueprint of community involvement in place and ready to execute, plans were derailed one night while travelling on a team bus with both teammates and the Pistons management team. Williams via cellphone was initially notified of a trade through a cellular convesation with a friend. When Williams approached management about the transaction, the deal was confirmed. Holding no personal feelings towards the Pistons organization Jerome jumped into his personal vehicle that night and stuck by his motto. “First one to practice, Last one to leave” He sure did. Williams arrived in time for morning practice and from that moment forward became a hit in Toronto.

Under hall of fame coach Lenny Wilkens Jerome enjoyed his best years in the association. He became a fan favorite during his days playing for the Toronto Raptors due to his tenacious efforts on the court. In 2002-03 JYD led Toronto in rebounding with 9.2 rebounds per game. Still untill this day Jerome Williams is arguably the most popular Toronto Raptor hands down. Williams ended up playing 9 seasons in the NBA meanwhile he was paid for 12.

Henderson International FINDLAY (NV) Prep

Post retirement. Williams and family followed his parents to Henderson, Nevada. A suburb of Las Vegas. His son attended The Henderson International. It was through his sons education Jerome Williams first crossed paths with the Las Vegas basketball program. It only made sense, that due to demographics, in some capacity Williams would eventually contribute to the local basketball program. His first interaction at a Findlay practice Williams remembers his first impression, “I get there and Avery Bradley is D’ing me up. I was like Man, this guy I know is going pro. Right away it was obvious” Most NBA veterans who can say they were coached by hall of fame coaches before offering their services would most likely demand a head coaching job. Not Williams, Jerome decided to pay dues. Volunteering for 5 seasons. From Volunteer, to Head of Player Development to Associate Head Coach last season. Tasks that even involved teaching Life Skill classes and  Global Citizenship courses. Williams was in his natural element. Now Williams embarks this fall on the first head coaching stint of his career.

Proof In Pudding

Jerome Williams patience and persistence are second to none. Personality traits parents should desire to be instilled into their children JYD is a expert at. You cant find a coach in America who values exploiting education more then Jerome Williams either. Ask his coaches, not a story involving friction, not even a peep of ever “going against the system.” Strong signs cementing a reputation that Jerome Williams was a consumate professional. This is they type of A+ individuals aspiring elite basketball players from all over the globe crave and Parents dream of.

X’s and O’s skeptics are still critical often referring to a notion “but he’s a big man” and perhaps the repuation of Findlay developing guards will take a toll. His predecessor Todd Simon doesnt seem the least bit concerned. “No chance. All four coaches from staff return. Development program was in place before coach joined and with staff staying intact it will certainly be quite simular” coach explained via text. Music to the ears of perimeter players. Simon added “Coach Williams brings a wealth of NBA experience from some of the best coaches (Wilkens, Collins, Skiles, Gentry etc) something few programs can boast. Coach Johnson and the crew have been apart of all these All-Americans and draft picks. I wouldnt undersell their importance either”

Coach Simon said it best Junk Yard Dog deserved and earned this opportunity. Little do most know and soon will realize that Findlay Prep found themselves a crown jewell in Coach Jerome. Jerome Williams was a phenominal rebounder. He may even be a better head coach.

“Coach Williams has been a great asset to the Findlay Prep program and I couldnt be more excited for he and the staff. The energy and experience of he and the staff with the Findlay way of doing things will be great for the program” Coach Simon concluded.

Keep in mind JYD’s success on the court only scratches the surface compared to his accomplishments off the court. He has created city wide mentoring programs that were established and maintained in both Detroit and Toronto. Needless to say Findlay Prep couldnt of found a better coach or a better teacher.

Kentucky Wildcats Monitoring Montaque Gill-Caesar

Posted on by Hoops Hype Canada

Andrew Wiggins and Montaque Gill-Ceaser both attended Vaughan Secondary School in Ontario and ultimately went to Huntington (W.V.) Prep. Gill-Caesar also plays for CIA Bounce, the same Toronto-based summer-league team that produced Wiggins. They were teammates last year and remain very close friends, even with Wiggins now off to Kansas after perhaps the most hyped recruitment in recent history.

“I talk to him every day just to see how he’s doing at school, what college is like,” Gill-Caesar said of Wiggins, who attended summer school at Kansas. “He gives me a lot of advice. He told me athleticism is not really going to get you that far.”

Poster boy for #CdnBallers at Huntington (WV) Prep. Class of 2015 6-ft-5 SF Montague Gill-Caeser

As far as his own recruitment, Gill-Caesar holds offers from Baylor, West Virginia, Illinois, Purdue, Ohio State and Alabama, according to Huntington (W.V.) Prep head coach Rob Fulford.

He also has interest from Kentucky and recently got a call from head coach John Calipari.

“He just said he likes my improvements,” Gill-Caesar said. “When he saw me during the season he likes how I handle the ball, how I handle the pressure.”

After a long winter of MGC & Wiggins going at it every day in a open gym, still no bigger fan of Gill-Caesar, or “Teki” as he is nicknamed then Andrew Wiggins himself.

“Teki is the next big thing, no question about it,” said Wiggins “He’s 6-foot-5 and growing and he’s talented. I’m telling you he’s definitely going to be the guy. Trust me, I’ve known him forever.”

Gill-Caesar and Wiggins grew up in Ontario and even attended Glen Shields Elementary together! The pair spent a summer together playing for the same AAU program, CIA Bounce (Canada). That’s when Wiggins started to talk to Gill-Caesar about coming to play in the U.S.

“He would always tell me about how good the competition is over here and I love competition,” Gill-Caesar said. “Finally, I decided to come over and play with him after I had a strong summer.”

Teki had a strong first year in West Virginia His invite to this summers NBPA Top 100 Camp is a reflection. Followed by a strong AAU circuit. Let the Teki HIGH MAJOR Sweepstakes begin…

SDST Azteks after Kevin Zabo

Posted on by Hoops Hype Canada

Brewster Academy 2014  6’3”  PG Kevin Zabo has been offered by the San Diego State Azteks. Zabo a native of Gatineau, QC experienced a roller coaster summer. Due to nagging injuries he was forced to miss the FIBA U19 World Championships in Prague.  “Just a bunch of injuries, the groin, my left ankle and still have my left thumb recovering from surgery I had earlier”  Zabo told HHC.  Despite battling injuries earlier in the summer, Zabo was healthy enough and in form to merit a spot with Team Canada @ the Nike Global Challenge in D.C. for the third straight year. “One of the best tournaments in the nation, no doubt.. Great experience representing Canada finishing in the top 4.” Zabo added.

The Canadian who attends Brewster Academy averaged 12.5 points and 5 assists in D.C. He also elaborated why he endorses the prep program in New Hampshire “a great school on and off the court was most important for me. Coach [Jason] Smith is a great, with a couple of leaguers from there too” Brewster alumni’s include Thomas Robinson,  Mitch McGarry and fellow Canadian Big 12 leader in rebounds Melvin Ejim. Tristan Thompson also had a cup of coffee with Brewster back in 2007.

As the 2014 point guard approaches his final lap on the American prep school circuit, he hinted despite interest from UCONN, WV, Minnesota, New Mexico and George Washington that San Diego State has recruited him with the most sense of urgency. In attendance at the 2013 Caribana Classic, Canada’s premier exposure camp held in the Greater Toronto Area was Azteks assistant Justin Hutson. Huston considered among the top assistant coaches in America according to poll taken by ESPN’s Jeff Goodman. Hutson is the top-rated west coast assistant to be exact amongst his peers.

Zabo verified he will visit the Azteks campus in the near future and has targeted the early signing period as a time table for his decision. “planning on visiting soon but no date set, the way they recruited me, it meant a lot, really felt they wanted me”.  Zabo a native of Quebec hails from the same city as a Canadian currently at Boston College “Olivier Hanlan, that’s my man @ Boston College, he is  doing his thing and a great example”.

Father Henry Carr to Findlay Prep

Posted on by Hoops Hype Canada

TORONTO – No secret nowadays that a pipeline exists between powerhouse programs on both sides of the border. For a second straight year Father Henry Carr (Toronto, ON) will outsource its elite basketball talent to the Findlay Prep Pilots (Las Vegas, NV).

Last year was 6’4″ Class of 2015 G Jalen Poyser transitioning from Canadian powerhouse Father Henry Carr to Findlay Prep.

Poyser spoke publically this past weekend about his winter getting acclimated in America, his experience on the court in Henderson, Nevada & his gave us his own personal recruitment update. Including news of a offer from Wake Forest to play under former Denver Nuggets head coach Jeff Bzdelik. Also mentioned a few 2016  Canadians on the Pilots radar.

Father Henry Carr head coach Paul Melnik when asked about Poyser the player explained “As a youngster he had that adolescent training, not only skills development but also attitude and basketball IQ”

Poyser in 2012-2013 started 10 games for Findlay who compiled a 35-1 record with a national schedule second to none. His sharpshooting and finishing also helped CIA Bounce 16U’s take care of business on the 2013 AAU circuit. Poyser was influential on a semi final finish at the NIKE EYBL Sweet Sixteen tourney at Peach Jam & also the clubs silver finish at the Live in Atlantic City showcase.

No stranger to high caliber competition, Jalen has always had a knack for being effective in games.  And frankly, has been an integral player on championship teams at all levels; elementary, club, high school, provincial teams and AAU. Known as a proven player with a knack for scoring and gifted athleticism keep an eye on the young man from Toronto.

Enter 6’5″ class of 2015 SF Dillon Brooks. Another key component to the success of CIA Bounce 16U’s. Also another alumni of Father Henry Carr. Brooks arrives on campus in Nevada fresh off a 38-2 campaign last year with FHC.  With a reputation as a top notch student-athlete the FHC Coach Melynyk said it best “happy to have witnessed his growth as a citizen, student and basketball player.”

Dillon Brooks 2015

On top of developing Dillon Brooks from boy to man, FHC Coach also added “He was Henry Carr’s most valuable player in a definitive “team”.  Jalen and Dillon with the collection of hard working student-athletes at FHC would have been an intimidating high school team.” No doubt. Now the folks in Henderson, Nevada will see for themselves.

From Dillon, they  can expect fundamental sound play with a mixture of “jump out of your seat” athleticism. Brooks like Poyser from Mississauga, Ontario will compete every second. Energy, intensity, offense, defense, and ton of emotion…that’s the winner that Dillon is and Findlay receive.

Poyser spent training camp with FHC before leaving for Findlay in early September 2012.  Both will toss it up for Findlay prep despite a coaching vacancy as of August 1st.

Reports have surfaced that the Pilots will keep their coaching vacancy in house. Names gaining weight as a decision nears are Jerome Williams and all assistants on the staff. Despite uncertainty around the head coach, CIA Bounce co-founder and 16U coach Tony McIntyre’s thoughts on Findlay Preps program still remain the same “Great school great coaches and a storied HS basketball program. Results oriented and prepare players for the next level” McIntyre told SNY

As for the 16U CIA Bounce squad who as mentioned earlier made deep runs in Augusta & Atlantic City, the program co founder also says not to worry heading in to 2014 “we plan on making a lot of noise and making up for a down year” his comments reflect the measuring stick former program alumni’s Anthony Bennett, Andrew Wiggins and incoming Syracuse PG Tyler Ennis have set the bar to. America you have been warned. Let it be known CIA Bounce have every intention to build on semi finals and championship appearances in 2013 and turning those experiences into championships in 2014.