Category Archives: HS & AAU

7-Footer Kabadyundi Sweepstakes 2.0

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NCAA March Madness Final Four weekend has similarities to the NFL Super Bowl. National atttention and all the media responsibilities that come with it. Almost every NCAA coach will be in North Texas to witness a 2014 National Champion crowned.

Morning after? Like the eve of free agency! Tuesday preparations for the 2014-15 season begin. Coaching staffs will be strategizing on how they can fill scholarship voids for the 2014 season — only five months away.

Montreal Quebec native 2014 7-1 C Link Kabadyundi (Alma Academy) has turned a strong senior season in to an overwhelming sweepstakes as of late.

Kabadyundi against Canadian high school competition including tournaments in the Greater Toronto Area stood out like David Robinson. Twice once inNovember and then again in March. Playing in front of a full house and several NCAA scouts at the 2014 National Prep School Invitational in Rhode Island Kabadyundi managed double digit rebound performances in Alma Acadmey’s two victories versus West Oaks Academy (FL) and Bridgton Academy (ME).

According to older brother Yannick, who began handling Link’s recruitment last June after returning home from abroad playing professional ball says that a large list of schools are showing serious interest now.

“We all thought at one point 2-3 months ago it was going to be all easy, we would pick up a couple schools and now were racking up close to 8 schools and all of them look very strong. We just have to take some time and re-evaluate. Let’s understand this is for Link, I’m just his facilitator here to guide him through” older brother Yannick elaborated.

One of the most popular voids to fill with window’s closing on any class are centers, big man, let alone seven footers that come around very few and far between.

Kabadyundi not only plays the position in demand, he has positioned himself to be a benefactor late in the game on the recruitment scene.

OFFICIAL VISITS

Nebraska Cornhuskers with proven program builder Head Coach Tim Miles officially hosted the Kabadyundi camp on the weekend of March 8th. The amped-up sellout crowd of 15, 998 at Pinnacle Bank Arena lived up to their reputation and the Cornhuskers knocked off the now Final Four bound Wisconsin Badgers.

“Link enjoyed the Nebraska visit. Their venue was arguably the best in college basketball last season. The hype was real.” Yannick said who with Kabadyundi witnessed their faithful storm the court.

In his first season as an Assistant Coach at Nebraska is Kenya Hunter. Former Georgetown Hoyas coach of six seasons. Extensive development history working alongside NBA draft picks Roy Hibbert, Greg Monroe and most recent Otto Porter. Hunter is reportedly spearheading the Cornhuskers pursuit.

UNOFFICIAL

February 22nd former NBA coach now head coach at Oklahoma Lon Kruger hosted Kabadyundi first on an unofficial. As an Oklahoma Sooner Link could join a fraternity with Clippers Blake Griffin a Sooner alumni.

DEVELOPMENT

Kabadyundi’s camp understand the learning curve can be steep in college, especially on the defensive end. Red shirting a year is a possibility but aggressive schools are willing to deal with his mistakes.

Days of standing in the lane in a high school game, daring opposition to come down the lane and blocking their shots are over. Kabadyundi has to worry about screening action, being screened, guarding pick-and-rolls, guarding big guys who shoot and being in the right spot. There’s a lot that goes into that.

HIGH INTEREST

#-1 ranked Final Four bound Florida Gators according to Yannick have also expressed interest. A program led by a hall of fame coach Billy Donovan where developing big man are their sweet spot.

“SEC is a very good conference. I would be thrilled to see Link play in that conference and develop. Florida have a good history developing big guys such as the Noah’s, Horford and those guys. They showed great interest and I think being at an institution like that for four years would definitely develop a good young man and definitely a good basketball player considering their history with big guys and how they are consistently playing in the post season, those are opportunities of a life time.” Yannick explained.

“After their finished their post season run assistant coach Burno from Florida said he was definitely interested in linking up and having us come in for an official visit ” Yannick explained.

NIT Championship finalists SMU coached by another Hall of Famer Larry Brown is another program on the rise after Link. Coach Brown has a staff filled with NBA experience such as former Sixers George Lynch and Eric Snow also a 5-star recruit Emmanuel Mudiay headed their next September.

UNLV dealing with draft concerns surrounding fellow Montreal native Khem Birch, have allready begun expecting the best and preparing for the worst. Rebels have reportedly identified Kabadyundi on their radar as a target to potentially replace Birch if indeed he decides to go pro.

TCU, Georgia and Fresno State are also exchanging dialogue with Kabadyundi.

“We welcome all kinds off schools. Were open to it. We need to be able to compare something. In order for us to compare we need to be open to anything and every opportunity that’s out there. The race is not over yet, its wide open. Show us what you have set up. Academically primarily because we need him to have a good support system pushing for him to graduate. We’ll ask the basketball questions. Link has got ways to go. Were trying to put him into a position to maximize his ability and we’ll go from there. “

From the beginning Buffalo University (losing senior Javon McCrea to graduation) and New Mexico State (set to lose 7’5″ Sim Bhulllar to 2014 NBA draft ) have been in the fold trying to fill a void at their center positions respectively. Tulane too established a relationship with Link early on in his recruitment process

“Buffalo we heard got a kid from North Carolina and things turned around with them but we haven’t heard back so we wont draw conclusions. I promised Tulane and New Mexico State we would visit there. I like to stand firm with my word. Those were the programs that came in early.” Yannick told Hoops Hype Canada.

Kabadyundi & co will weigh the the pros and cons of each programs particulars over the next couple weeks and that should separate the pretenders from contenders. Older brother Yannick did verify a time table, “Week of April 16th”.

MOUNT ROYAL TOWERS

Yannick and Link also have a younger brother Jordy Tshinanga who is a 6’11 sophomore at MacDuffie in Massachusetts. Together they are nicknamed the Mount Royal Towers after an infamous hill in the beautiful town of Montreal. Keep tabs on this brother duo from Montreal both flirting with high major potential.

Follow 2014 7’1″ Link Kabadyundi (Alma, QC) on Twitter

More on Link read Link Kabadyundi Sweeptakes 1.0 here

Follow 2016 6’11″ Jordy Tshimanga (MacDuffie, MA) on Twitter

More on Jordy check out: Oh My Jordy! 6’10″ Southpaw Surfaces

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Tutu & Coach Huss Talk AAU And Recruitment

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2015 Munis Tutu (La Lumiere/Canada Elite) is the #1-ranked point guard in the Canadian 2015 class.

Munis Tutu (LaLumiere IN) the No.1-ranked point guard in the 2015 Canadian class will travel with the Canada Elite U17 squad scheduled to participate on the Under Armour AAU circuit this summer.

Fresh off a 22-2 campaign with La Lumiere the 6’0″ Tutu reiterated via telephone with Hoops Hype Canada staff that during the home stretch of this 2013-14 high school season, which includes participating in next week’s Dick’s National Tournament, his recruitment focus has been shelved until the summer time. With that said Binghamton and Iowa State are rumored to be monitoring Munis at the moment.

“Really just talking to a lot of schools. Im not really going to foucs on all the schools until the summer time and AAU season.” When asked what his dream school growing up was the Windsor, Ontario native said something Hall of Famer and former UCONN head coach Jim Calhoun would love to hear, “I really like UCONN. Thats kind of a dream school I would love to go to”. said Tutu.

Kevin Ollie take notice!

Regarding the AAU season which is fast approaching Tutu verified reports of him participating with Toronto, Ontario based, Under Armour sponsored, Canada Elite. Tutu was being courted by Chicago’s Meanstreets and The Family from Detroit. CIA Bounce the Nike flagship program from Toronto, who do have a plethora of point guards in their ranks never reached out.

“I would have liked to play at CIA Bounce but they never contacted me. I wanted to play for a Canadian team so I will play with Canada Elite this summer. I chose them because of the coaching staff. I’ve known a coach there since third grade. I also wanted to play with them because I feel I can play, lead and win with them. I hope we can attract coaches in the gym to watch us. With Canada Elite hopefully we can become one of Canada’s great AAU programs.” Tutu said.

Reportedly set to join him at Canada Elite is Mr. Toronto Basketball for 2013-14 Chase Vassell who scored 25+ points or more in 17 games this season playing for Pine Ridge in Toronto. Together Tutu and Vassell should wreak havoc south of the border, Solid starting back court pick ups for the Under Armour sponsored squad from Toronto.

What does his high school coach La Lumiere head Alan Huss think about his AAU decision for Tutu’s last hurrah,

“It was important he found a fit that’s comfortable for him. He had lots of options if he wanted to playing the EYBL he could have. He did last season with the Family in Detroit close to home. Its critical he has a strong showing this spring and he continues to build on a solid high school season” Coach Huss told Hoops Hype Canada.

“Munis maybe undersized at his position and because of that people like to see what he cant do. He’ll continue to prove himself this spring. Once one or two high level programs offer him I think a lot more stuff will pour in. He has some great programs on his list now, I don’t think he’s overly concerned with it. I know he’s going to be smart and pick a right fit. Just want him to get better and he’s going to be just fine.” Coach Huss said about his recruitment.

Look out for a vocal Tutu facilitating on the court this summer both offensively and defensively. Munis separates himself from other Canadian point guards in his class with his his speed pushing the ball in transition. When needed to score he can be depended on too. Whatever it takes to win, Tutu has both will and skill to get it done. That’s the type of dymanic player Munis Tutu is. Keep tabs on this recruitment. Its about to sizzle up for Tutu as the focal point on Canada Elite.

Follow 2015 PG Munis Tutu on Twitter by clicking here

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Munis Tutu’s LaLu Lakers Update

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Windsor, ON’s Munis Tutu (La Lumiere) many have pegged as the No.1-ranked point guard in the 2015 class.

It was an AAU game versus New Heights where Alan Huss, head coach of La Lumiere discovered the Windsor, Ontario point guard holding his own,

“Heard somebody knew a point guard from Windsor, when I heard Windsor it was intriguing to us being so close. From a geographical stand point we thought he would be a nice fit.” Huss told Hoops Hype Canada.

Two years later 2015 Munis Tutu next week will lead La Lumiere’s basketball team in to New York City to compete in the Dick’s Sporting Goods High School National Tournament. It marks the third consecutive season the Lakers will compete in the prestige tourney. This years Laker edition with two seniors who helped seal some deals were extremely skilled on the perimeter and guard play helped carry them to a top 10 finish in the nation.

This season along side starting point guard Tutu, LaLu is led by sharpshooter Jalen Coleman, and versatile forward Sam Logwood. Coleman is averaging 19 points per game, and shooting 51 percent from deep. Logwood averages almost 17 points per game, and shoots over 50 percent from the field.

DICKS NATIONALS

The Lakers will face Huntington Prep on April 3 at 10 a.m. EST on ESPNU. Huntington Prep is led by JaQuan Lyle, a top-25 prospect that’s headed to Oregon.

Last year, the Lakers lost to a St. Benedict’s Prep (New Jersey) team that featured Tyler Ennis (Syracuse) in the first round. In 2012, they fell to a loaded Montverde Academy squad that consisted of Joel Embiid (Kansas), Dakari Johnson (Kentucky), Michael Frazier and Kasey Hill (Florida).

Versus Huntington Prep: The programs met last year, with La Lumiere holding Huntington to 35 points and Andrew Wiggins to nine. Even though they don’t have a singular talent like Wiggins, Huntington are actually more balanced this season. Preventing 2014 JaQuan Lyle (17.5 ppg, 6.6 rpg, 5.7 apg, 4.2spg), a stat-stuffer and great all-around player and fellow Canadian 2015 Montaque Gill-Ceasar (16.3 ppg, 6.8 rpg) from going off will be a priority for Huss’ staff. La Lumiere will also need an answer for bruising big man Thomas Bryant (14.1 ppg, 13.1 rpg) who is well known for his physicality.

MONEY TIME FOR MUNIS & LAKERS

For Munis Tutu the National Tournament presents an opportunity for our top ranked point guard in the 2015 Canadian class to solidify his status as a top point guard in America. Being at the National tournament two times in a row, Last season as a back up, now this time a starter is a step in the right direction for Tutu.

Tutu who oozes potential along with La Lumiere must advance to really take that next step to where people really think of La Lumiere in the same breath as some of the other teams in the tournament. Lakers have made tremendous strides over the past two years to put themselves in the national rankings conversation. In 2012, La Lumiere handed Findlay Prep its only loss of the season. Last year, the Lakers had a big win over Oak Hill Academy, but they went into a tailspin to close the season. La Lumiere dropped four of its last five, including a setback to No. 2 St. Benedict’s in the quarterfinals of the NHSI.

The 6-foot Tutu is a crafty playmaker off the bounce who owns a body of work to be a steal at the mid-major level. Speaking with Tutu via telephone the Canadian guard touched on his LaLumiere tenure.

“Coming here [La Lumiere] was a great decision for me. Basketball in America is very different. La Lumiere and Coach Huss have really pushed me to be the great player I’m trying to become.”

Asked about any college or professional point guards Tutu models his game after, Munis said he likes watching Indiana University sophomore Yogi Ferrell and in the NBA he follows both Chris Paul and Rajon Rondo.

Shabe Heirman in his second season as Assistant Director of Athletics and Associate Head Basketball Coach at La Lumiere School has played a pivotal part in Tutu’s development. Coach Heirman played collegiate basketball at the University of Tulsa also as a point guard. He has been a mentor for Tutu Head coach Alan Huss told Hoops Hype Canada in late January,

” He [Heirman] has spent a lot of time, with D1 point guard experience by Munis’ side. I think he has done a really nice job helping Munis, Not so much the feel part of it which is very natural for Munis but more with just how to be a leader, how to play the position all the time. With a lot of kids the consistency of everything is something Munis had to learn, which he’s done a nice job getting better at here the last year.” said Huss.

HUSS NO STRANGER TO TORONTO

Munis is the fourth Canadian to attend La Lumiere since Huss took over four years ago. He follows Western Mustang Adam Djukic (Oakwood), JUCO talent Jake Hill (Eastern Commerce) and Missouri S&T’s Aaron Emmanuel (Henry Carr) who started two years for the Lakers. All three Huss inherited when he arrived on the job. Other names that nearly commited to La Lumiere were Canisius bound Cassidy Ryan & Marquette bound Marial Shayok. Both were very close calls.

Heavily linked with La Lumiere has been 2016 Nolan Narain. It is widely believed that if and when the 6’9″ member of Canada’s Cadet team takes his talents to America La Lumiere is high on his list and according to Coach Huss the feelings are mutual.

“We’ve been actively pursuing Nolan Narain for some time now. I really think Nolan has a chance to be something special if he really commits and wants to work at it.” Coach Huss shared.

As for Toronto talent very few coaches from America have a pulse on it like the former 6’9″ center from Creighton Alan Huss does,

“I’ve been going up there a long time, almost 10 years now. I really got to watch the progression of the different AAU programs like Grassroots who dominated for so many years. I know Ro [Russell] and have a lot of respect for them. Then watching Mike [George] and Tony [McIntyre] do their thing. Now some of the new guys like YAAACE coming up..Northern Kings, I got a good handle on the club scene and kind of know a lot of the high school coaches up there. I think I got a good idea what’s going on and try to always follow it. From a geographical stand point whether its the Greater Toronto Area or Windsor the geography makes sense. Munis can take a three and a half hour train ride home anytime he wants to go back. It just makes sense from a logistics stand point being close to Ontario kids and being in tuned with what’s going on there” Coach Huss explained.

Following is a look at Coach Huss’ tenure with La Lumiere. Very impressive stability and success under head coach Huss.

2013-14 (Alan Huss) 22-2 as of April 1st, 2014
2012-13 (Alan Huss) – 26-6, No. 7 final Academy Top 10 national ranking
2011-12 (Alan Huss) – 25-3, No. 7 final Academy Top 10 national ranking
2010-11 (Alan Huss) – 21-4
2009-10 (Delray Brooks) – 10-11
2008-09 (Delray Brooks) – 14-9

Follow 2015 PG Munis Tutu on Twitter by clicking here

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Murray’s Father On Michigan Visit

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After a previous visit to Ann Arbor was postponed due to some car trouble, 2016 Jamal Murray (Athlete Institute) made it to Michigan’s final regular season game against Indiana on Saturday evening.

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Coming along with Murray on the trip were both of his parents, they enjoyed watching Michigan celebrate a Big Ten regular season championship at Crisler Center.

“Overall it was a great visit,” Murray’s father said. “It was a great facility. Their fans were really good. Their facilities (were the best part).”

Standing 6’4″ Murray plays the role of point guard for his high school team but could project at either guard position at the next level. With the opportunity to watch Michigan’s guards and the Wolverines offensive system up close, the Murray’s came away impressed.

“They have a good team and good rotation right now,” Murray’s father said. “Their communication is a strength even just looking at the bench.”

Talking with his son following the visit, Murray says it was a positive experience.

“His reaction was he enjoyed the game,” Murray’s father said. “It was really good. Michigan came back and hit a couple big shots. I think Jamal, he was happy to see it up close and see the facility as well. It was a good game. Overall it was a good experience.”

Once the Big Ten championship celebration came to a close following Michigan’s 84-80 win over Indiana, the Wolverines’ coaching staff had a chance to interact with the Murray’s, making a favorable impression.

“Everybody was great” Murray’s father said. “Again we’re going (on these visits) to try to see everything like the facilities but we got a good feel from it.”

“They’re really good people and they like what they do and it was nice of them to spend so much time walking around. It’s hard to get everything done in a couple hours though.”

Unable to get a better feel for the rest of what Michigan has to offer academically, the Murray’s plan to be back to find out more about the Wolverines.

“Yeah,” Murray’s father said when asked if they’ll make a return trip. “We want to see more of the University. Overall, it was good.”

Murray’s father adding, “We’ll go back and see (more). It was a good experience and great opportunity.”

For more information on the 2016 Jamal Murray Sweepstakes, tune in at HoopsHype.Ca

2016 Jamal Murray Sweepstakes 2.0
2016 Jamal Murray Sweepstakes 1.0

5 Question Inbound With Diaper Dandy Danilo Djuricic

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18 teams and ninety starting jobs at the 2014 OFSAA championships being held March 3rd through 5th in Mississauga, Ontario. Only one starting freshman (grade 9 student) in the whole field. He is #1 seed St. Michael’s Blue Raider Danilo Djuricic. A 2018 talent standing 6’6″ tall who ‘rebounds and blocks shots above average for being so young’ according to CIA Bounce boss Tony McIntyre.

Before St. Michael’s College begins there quest for back-to-back OFSAA titles, HHC counterparts caught up with the promising young talent from Brampton, Ontario.

HHC: For your freshman season in high school you decided to take your talents to St. Michael’s College. Not only hockey but it’l is notorious for all sports. 2013 defending OFSAA champions & this years #1 seed. What separates SMC not only to become provincial contenders but also able to recruit top notch talent like yourself?

DD: The coaches especially coach Zownir are incredible coaches, they push you everyday in practice and are great to learn from. The discipline and structure that they have in basketball are great to have. Our reputation at this school was a great factor, being top for academics and athletics was a big factor in coming here. The academics at this school are a great prep for later on… there is lots of work to do. Also just looking at the SMC team the last couple years, they have been great, looking at the talent that they had, it just keeps going up. Now that I’m here I have great mentors from everyone on the team being the young boy. The coaches and seniors give me great advice and have been a huge help throughout the year, especially from Coach Zownir, and Godwin [Boahen], and Nelson [Kaputo] they took me under their wing and they’ve been my biggest mentors in my first year here.

HHC: About yourself. Earlier this season caught peoples attention for a willingness to rub shoulders in the paint with opposing front courts which is rare for a freshman, towards season end your outside shot is noticeably improving. Any players pro or collegiately you compare your game too? Which position or role do you vision yourself playing at the next level?

DD: I think my game models Chandler Parsons with a inside game and still working on my outside game. Even though it’s too early because I’m in grade 9 my goal is playing D1 university, and wherever that takes me, I mean it’s every ballers dream to go to the NBA, just school first then basketball, and you never know.

DIAPER DANDY: Danilo Djuricic with #1 seed St.Michael’s will be the only starting grade nine at the 2014 OFSAA basketball championships.

HHC: For those that don’t know your a Brampton, Ontario native, you also play AAU ball for Brampton based CIA Bounce. For folks across the country and coaches reading can you try to explain why Brampton has become such a hot bed for D1 talent?

DD: Brampton has been slept on a lot lately, if you look at the talent pool that has come out of Brampton the last couple years, Just to name a few, Tristan Thompson, Anthony Bennett, Tyler Ennis, just naming a few I know there are many more. These guys are guys that us kids in Brampton look up to knowing they’ve been in the same area, we’re just trying to make it like they are. And a club like CIA Bounce’s focus is nothing but development and is everything for us players. CIA Bounce gives us players a great opportunity to achieve our goals, it’s great playing for them.

HHC: About your CIA Bounce team… You look at what Grassroots (Tristan Thompson & Cory Joseph) did ath the 17U level, what CIA Bounce (Bennett, Wiggins, Ennis) 16U did, even what YAAACE 15U (Justin Jackson & co) accomplished last summer it seems like Canadian teams travelling AAU are finding more success now at earlier ages. When you talk to Canadian recruitment & scouting experts the consensus is that your 2018 class may be the best class ever when it’s all said and done. Allready the accolades are accumulating south of the border with your squad, any team mates we should keep an eye out for in terms of 2018 talent?

DD: Looking at the 2018 class there are lots of high caliber players. If you look at our 2018 Bounce team, everyone of us are top talent players, that’s why we are so successful together, everyone should keep an eye on our team, Simi, Jonathon, KeShaun, John, just to name a few, our whole team are top notch players.

HHC: Before AAU OFSAA 2014! Your Blue Raiders enter as the #1 seed and incredible feat considering your starting 5 are all underclassmen. What kind of basketball does St.Michaels hang their hat on and what will it take to become back to back provincial champions starting with #12 seed Mother Teresa Monday?

DD: Takes our determination, and our drive for the back to back. We have been working for the date of March 5th 8:00pm all year, we’ve had it down on our calendars all year, that will be the night. We just have to play together how we’ve been playing and that’s all that matters.

To follow Danilo Duricic on twitter click here

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Open Court With Coach Mac

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Toronto based 16U AAU team YAAACE are currently #2 in pre season rankings including all of North America.

2nd overall to only a program that is funded and orchestrated by none other then two-time reigning NBA champion Lebron James.

What YAAACE accomplished on tour of duty travelling AAU last summer was ridiculous yet remarkable.

Founded in 2007, the Youth Association for Academics Athletics and Character Education (Y.A.A.A.C.E) was only a community organization that’s mandate was to engage children and youth from communities through programs and activities. Now their novice team seven years later is sitting #2 in all of North America.

YAAACE head coach Jordan McFarlane aka Coach Mac is regarded as one of the better player coaches in the Greater Toronto Area.

From novice leagues to #2 in North America. Coach Mac has even played a part in tutoring and developing a top-10 ranked talent in America 2016 Justin Jackson. A 6-8 point guard with potential in his viens who could be real special one day.

It was only right that HHC caught up with the 27-year-old YAAACE head coach and discuss some current situations and happenings with the YAAACE boys from Toronto with AAU around the corner, Enjoy!

HHC: You’ve been head coach of YAAACE since the 2016 group were 10 years old. For people that are unfamiliar how did you get the gig which you’ve done a remarkable job including your squad being ranked right now #2 in N.America, Only behind Lebron Janes AAU program.

Justin Jackson, Coach Mac & Oshae Brisette.

Justin Jackson, Coach Mac & Oshae Brisette.

JM: It all started with Devon Jones. Devon use to coach a novice team that consisted of many of the players that I coach to this day. I was just the bigger brother to one of the kids on that team. As their novice season came to an end. Devon Jones appointed me to be teams new head coach. This was way back in 06/07. I’ve been working with these young men ever since.

HHC: In Canada your not considered great untill America says your great. #2 in North America, deep runs in Indiana, Orlando & Las Vegas and a July live period record of 19-3. Are you expecting the same results in 2014?

JM: That record was a direct result of all the hard work and sacrifices these athletes made all year. They trained hard as individuals and even harder as a team. This just means we have more work to do. It’s nice to be #2 but it’s not #1.

HHC: #1 player in 2016 Canadian class Justin Jackson, perhaps the most publicized player on the squad. Took his talents down south in September. Your thoughts on his season, as expected or even better?

JM: I think Findlay is definitely a big stage to be on. Especially since the roster is loaded with d1 talent. I think Justin early on has had some difficulty figuring out where he belongs in the d1 factory we call Findlay Prep, but has still found ways to be a key contributor to his team. Some would say it was a mistake to send him there but I say that in order to be the best you have play with and against the best, and that’s what Action Jackson is doing everyday in Vegas.

HHC: In regards to Action Jackson, some people say he is a point guard, tweener at the 3/4 you’ve coached Justin since he was 10 years old. What is Coach Macs feelings on the position & type role for Justin Jackson?

JM: Justin Jackson will be a PG at the pro level with out a doubt. He’s 6’8 with pg Handles and Magic Johnson like court vision. Defending the the pg position will be his greatest challenge to overcome. But from what I’ve seen so far from Justin this year is his defense has dramatically improved and will only continue to get better.

HHC: Recently YAAACE announced a merge with Triple Balance and formed a new moniker for AAU called Association Canada. Any reason for the merger and how will it benefit YAAACE moving forward?

JM: It was the perfect fit. Both organizations do life changing work in the community (Triple Balance/Malvern), (Yaaace/Jane&Finch). Plus together we arguably field the top 15 & 16u teams in Canada. I think this creates more opportunities for the young ones coming up in both programs. Plus the guys over at Triple Balance are great men. They are trust worthy and share the same passion we have for helping young men and women.

HHC: Reports surfacing about Association participating in the recently announced Under Armour AAU circuit and a partnership with Under Armour and Association. Can you confirm or deny rumored reports or still to pre mature?

JM: Yes The Association Canada Elite is officially a UA sponsored organization. Our 15, 16, & 17u teams will be participating in the UAA League this summer.

HHC: Back to the future. The other Pilot Oshae Brisette also at Findlay, relatively unknown in Toronto, what can you tell Canadian hoop heads about the young man?

JM: First of all Oshae Brissett is a class act. He’s a great student and an even better person. Oshae is a 6’8 wing with loads of talent and potential. We’ve thrown him into the fire at Findlay. He’s been going up against the likes of McDonalds All Americans Kelly Oubre and Rashad Vaughn everyday in practice. That environment will definitely help that potential blossom into greatness. Watch out for this kid in the future.

HHC: Toronto high school hoops scene have some of your guards going hard. Your main lead guard Godwin Boahen of St.Mikes, only 5’9″ but as a sophmore led his school to the most prestige provincial championship in the country. With the 2014 OFSAA kicking off next week he’s back as a Junior with the #1 seed. What makes that kid so special?

JM: He’s got the heart of a lion. He never quits. He’s never afraid to do the dirty work and lock down the opposing teams best player. Put it this way. If I had to coach against this kid I would be nervous.

HHC: High flyer Marcus Ottey. Showed signicant strides as a go to guy with JC Richardson. He was instrumental in their success and fell only 3 points short of The provincial championship in the LOSSA finals. Signs of becoming a complete player?

JM: Marcus Ottey is like a little brother to me. Because we both live in the Durham Region we often train together in the off season. He’s probably the most athletic baller I’ve ever met, so watching him defy gravity over the last couple of years doesn’t surprise me any more. What is most impressive about Marcus’s game is his much improved skill set. He’s worked at it and had a great summer circuit because of it. Great kid.

HHC: #3 seed at OFSAA features combo guard Keshon Montague. As a 2016 he led D’Youville to a 32-4 overall record as a starter in a battle tested schedule, what type of player is he?

JM: Keshon is a glue guy. He is great at facilitating an offense and running it at a tempo that best fits his team. He also had a great summer and was a key part of the success that the #2 team in the country achieved. He is now the franchise guy with his high school squad D’Youville. I wish him all the best at OFSAA.

HHC: Your thoughts on the 2016 Canadian class in general. 2 clubs ranked inside the top 25 in AAU pre season polls and Canada basketbal is selecting a chosen few to represent the U17 level at the World Championships for this summer. How do we we compare to the Americans and is a gold medal game is realistic?

JM: The 2016 class is deep. Arguably the deepest class we have right now. That top 25 ranking is a testament to that. The national program will have a lot of talent to pull from. In my humble opinion I think the selection criteria for the national team is a bit flawed. Too much focus on size and not enough actual skill and talent. Especially at the guard spot. Last year we had no true facilitator or defensive stopper at the pg spot. If a little guy can get the job then that’s who should be playing.

HHC: Final question, in 2007 when YAAACE was founded do you ever think how basketball was just another activity to engage youths and all of a sudden now 7 years later your group is in the home stretch of obtaining 4 year scholarships which value over CDN $250,000? Your thoughts?

JM: Your right. when I first started coaching I thought it was just going to be something fun to do for the kids. Something to keep them engaged. But the opportunities that have come as a result of these boys doing what they’ve done thus far are incredible. If everyone of my athletes could earn a free scholarship at the end of the day I would be the luckiest guy in the world. These kids are special. And they deserve every ounce of credit.

There you have it, keep an eye on the Association Canada AAU squad and their blossoming young talent.

Moving forward the question begs, can this crop do it again?

To follow Coach Mac on twitter click here

To follow the Association Canada Elite click here

To follow HoopsHypeCa click here

Michigan Chasing Murray With Coach Meyer

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Scheduled to visit Michigan this past Sunday for their win over Michigan State, car trouble forced the Murray’s and his team to take a detour but the plan is to be in Ann Arbor sooner than later, with stops to other schools on the docket as well.

“We definitely want to get back to Michigan,” Athlete Insitute HS head coach Larry Blunt said. “We appreciate them extending the opportunity and we’re going to get down before the season ends.”

Though early, the Wolverines, led by assistant coach Jeff Meyer, are already laying the groundwork for a positive recruiting experience with Murray.

“Coach Meyer, we’ve spoken with him a ton,” Blunt said. “For one Michigan is a great school and relatively speaking it’s close from a proximity standpoint so his parents could see him play.”

30 year old Blunt in his first year in charge in Orangeville, ON concluded,

“Michigan has been great, they’ve been consistent, they’ve been keeping tabs on him and they’ve done a really nice job early in the recruiting game of building a solid foundation with him.”

Per source coach Meyer photographed above was at the 2014 Caribana Classic NCAA camp last summer in Brampton, ON held by CIA Bounce. It is there where he came away impressed with Kitchener, Ontario native Murray.

Hoop Dreams: Puma Point Guard Jordan Henry

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Last month Hoops Hype Canada pronounced 2017 Nova Scotia native Lindell Wiggington as the #1-ranked point guard in the nation. Little did we know that residing in Toronto is someone who maybe in the same conversation.

Meet class of 2017 5’9″ Jordan Henry of the Pine Ridge Pumas. Since arriving on the scene last AAU live period in Florida, the point guard nick named ‘Rock’ by his peers has taken his game to a whole different level.

As a underclass men only in grade ten, Henry has quarter backed the Pumas to a stellar historic season while mastering his craft in the east end of Toronto. Pine Ridge based out of Pickering finished a flawless regular season 15-0, and 29-7 overall. When HHC correspondents connected with Pine Ridge head coach Trisha Biffin. Coach vouched for his teams facilatator both on and off the court.

“Academically Jordan has been a strong student with us at Pine Ridge and has performed well both on and off the court. He is well liked by all his teachers and peers and always has a pleasant disposition in the classroom and at practice.” adding ” He is a true leader and a threat to all of his opponents.”

Jordan Henry remains to be one of the only starting grade 10 point guards in the province playing at the senior level. In the LOSSA finals head to head with Canadian Cadet 2016 Marcus Ottey, Henry scored 25 points including 14 points alone in the fourth quarter. Think Sacramento Kings starting point guard Isaiah Thomas. Very small, very explosive, and quite the competitor who likes to get to the rim.

Asked about what separates Henry from other tenth graders and the Pickering, Ontario high school head coach explained,

“He can not be shaken while on the court and does not let his emotions get the better of him. Alongside Chase Vassell he creates a plethora of scoring opportunities and we hope to create more chances with this duo at OFSAA.”

Ahead of the 2014 OFSAA ‘AAAA’ championships next week in Mississauga, Ontario HHC (Hoops Hype Canada) correspondents caught up with Jordan. Henry and his Puma’s will be the #7 seed.

HHC: Tell us about yourself. Your game, any professional players you draw inspiration from? Any athletes that you aspire to be?

JH: I like to view myself as a pass first guard who enjoys watching their teammates score. My ability to pass keeps the defense guessing because I’m always in a triple threat position which gives me multiple options. I draw inspiration from Steve Nash, Tony Parker and Chris Paul. They all played on winning teams and they don’t always rely on their athleticism to contribute. They are very crafty and use quickness and basketball iq to succeed. I draw inspiration from Lebron James and Chris Paul because their team players and other players love to play with them. They always make their teammates perform better.

HHC: When did you first get interested in Basketball? Any accolades along the way your most proud of?

JH: I started playing basketball in grade 4 and all the tournaments and championships over the years are my most valuable accolades.

HHC: Any challenges your experiencing as a student-athlete on & off the court? How is your support staff with teachers?

JH: No I have no problems with my academics and if I do have problems the teachers at Pine Ridge are 100% supportive and helpful. I’m close to all my teachers and I’m extremely close to my assistant coach/guidance counselor Mrs. Biffin. I’m extremely thankful to have her involved because she’s always there for me when I need her help.

HHC: About Pine Ridge. What your doing as a 2017 at the senior level is fantastic. Your thoughts on your teams season so far and potential of going the distance down the stretch?

JH: Well we have some good wins and some terrible losses. We need to work on our consistency and not play down to the level of our competition. If we play to our potential we can compete with anyone in the country because we have a great presence and rim protecter in Jay Williams, we have another shifty and quick guard in Dre mcintosh, and we have the best scorer in high school basketball in Chase Vassell who can you go for 40+ any given night! I’m blessed for these teammates and my job is to make sure I get everyone involved in and make sure everyone focused, and playing as 1 unit! Our #1 goal is to win OFSAA.

HHC: Back to you… any daily routines? As you prepare for D1? Anything new you’ve incorporated lately to help propel you to the next level?

JH: Yeah I’ve started to eat way more healthy, I’m also doing push-ups and other exercises to gain more strength. I’m in the gym everyday shooting different types of shots like floaters, pull ups and other off the dribble shots. My strength and my shooting are my 2 major weaknesses so I’m going to continue to work hard on them and make them strengths of my game. I watch a lot of college basketball because it helps me gain more basketball iq and I can improve the mental part of my game.

HHC: For AAU who will be travelling with? Also any dream schools across NCAA you grew up admiring?

JH: l will be traveling with The Associaton this summer. My dream schools are North Carolina, Baylor and Michigan.

After hearing his commitment to the Association Canada, the flagship AAU program for Under Armour, HHC reached out to head coach Shane James for some feedback. First question? What makes Henry a top candidate for top point guard in his class, coach James responded,

“I think Jordan Henry is at the top of his class not only as a PG but as a complete player. He’s a coaches dream. A player that has tremendous leadership skills, a superb athlete and can do anything you ask of him. The kid can flat out score in multiple different ways, break people down using dribble moves, create for teammates and guard the oppositions best player night in and night out. Jordan is also an academic kid. He works just as hard in the classroom as he does on the basketball court. Not only is it a pleasure to coach a kid like Jordan, he makes my job a lot easier”

So what is next for JH? Is it time to take his talents south of the border?

“That would be a decision for JH to make with his family. With that being said, he has been getting a lot of interest lately from some of the top high schools and preps down south. He will have some tough decision to make. I have to give a lot of credit to coach Cam Nekkers who is doing a great job running a first class program at Pineridge. Jordan enjoys playing at Pineridge. Did you see the student/staff support they had at the LOSSA Championships? It’s a great when your whole school gets behind you and supports school sports. It creates a great environment to play in.” Concluded coach James.

There you have it folks, the talent vault doesn’t stop north of the border no matter the position. Look out for his patterned spin move to the hoop and circle the name Jordan Henry. 5’9″ class of 2017. If you didn’t know now you know.

2013-14 Pine Ridge Pumas @PineRidgeBball finished 29-7 overall with a 15-0 LOSSA record. They will enter the 2014 provincial championships as the #7 seed.

5 Question Inbound With 2016 PG Keshon Montague

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It’s no secret that Canada basketball overlooks smaller size point guards when it comes to international play. As evident when highly touted guards such as 2016 Keshon Montague, Godwin Boahen & Nelson Kaputo were omitted from the U16 FIBA Americas roster that finished with a bronze medal last summer in Uruguay. Yes European guards are long and tall but height at the point guard position size is irrelevant. Give us skill, leadership qualities and most importantly winners!

Ahead of the 2014 ROPSAA championship game between Brampton, Ontario rivals D’Youville Panthers & Notre Dame, HHC counterparts caught up with Panthers floor general who is known for his long range shooting, in your face defense, facilitating and WINNING on every level he’s played on. Recently the Brampton native was added to HoopTownGTA’s Fab 48 for Grade 11. Five question inbound with 2016 PG Keshon Montague, Enjoy!

HHC: You have played on grand stages before. Nationals gold game, back to back junior level ROPSAA championships, showcase/all star games, elite 8′s, final fours and championship games during AAU live periods. Where does tonight, your first Ropsaa championship game at the senior level rank? Big or just any other game?

KM: This is my third ROPSAA finals in the last three years but I still don’t take this opportunity for granted. Even though we already qualified for OFSAA It’s still a big game for me. A lot of players were vying to play in the finals but my teammates and I worked very hard to ensure our place in this game. We our also trying to win this game for our 5th year seniors Addy (Ogunye) and Jerome (Simpson).

HHC: D’Youville! Notorious in Brampton for being a basketball power house. For people that don’t know Tristan Thompson attended DY before going south. You’ve been a lead guard since you arrived, play nearly 50 games a year with tourneys, season and playoffs. In your opinion what separates DY from other peel regional schools?

KM: What separates DY from other schools in my opinion is the kids who go there and how willing they are to work each and everyday. The coaches sacrifice a lot of their time giving us an opportunity to work on our game everyday 5 days a week sometimes three times a day. They also give us the game experience we need with our 50 game schedule and help us reach our full potential.

Keshon Montague Yaaace

411 on 2016 PG Keshon Montague courtesy of HoopTownGTA

HHC: Many experts have labelled you the purest facilitating PG in the 2016 class. Any players pro or collegiately inspire you? Or you model your game after?

KM: There are four guards i really study and try to model my game after. Chris paul for his facilitating and court awareness. Kyrie Irving for his scoring ability and how he attacks the rim. Tyler Ennis for the way he reads the pick and roll and lastly Stephen curry for his shooting ability.

HHC: On court is there anything you have added to your training regime or incorporated into your development to help propel you to the next level?

KM: I’d have to say more focused workouts, working on one thing each day instead of doing 5 things and not doing them properly. I’m also incorporating boxing, it gives u stamina, focus and endurance for the big games like today.

HHC: Last but not least, You were a big part of YAACE’s remarkable 19-3 July record. Making deep runs in Indiana, Orlando & Las Vegas your thoughts on that experience? Any timetable for your decision on summer plans?

KM: That was a great experience for me , probably the best summer I’ve ever had ! Our team was very talented and we did a lot of damage down south ! Very thankful to Coach Jordan for that opportunity. I want to take care of the rest of the HS season then make my decision.

Support and track Keshon Montague’s journey to the next level by following him on Twitter by clicking HERE

Support and track D’Youvilles journey towards OFSAA by following on Twitter by clicking HERE

2016 Jamal Murray Sweepstakes 1.0

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2016 Jamal Murray (Athlete Institute/CIA Bounce) recruiting sweepstakes has officially begun. Murray a member of the Cadet Men’s National Team who will participate in the 2014 U17 FIBA World Championship for Men has seen his legend grow by the game.

Currently ranked #37 by Scouts.com the 6’5″ 190lbs Murray is being recruited as a combo guard at the next level, while primarily playing point guard for his high school team Athlete Institute in Orangeville, Ontario. Murray last week cracked the Fox Sports Scouts.com national top 100 list which is a rare feat for a Canadian playing high school ball on Canadian soil. Justin Jackson (Findlay Prep/YAAACE) is the highest sitting Canadian at 21. Both Murray and Jackson have been arguably the top player in the highly touted 2016 Canadian class.

“Jamal Murray is a special player…He wants the ball in his hands at the end of the game.” In talking about Murray’s recruiting AI HS head coach Larry Blunt mentioned to American media in December ,“His recruitment is heavy. A lot of colleges on him already as a sophomore.”

One school that has been consistently keeping in contact with Murray’s coach is Michigan. Who already boast a Canadian product with Mississauga native Nik Stauskas whose enjoying a stellar sophomore season.

“They’re looking at him as a one or two,” Murray’s father Roger told Scout.com “A lot of people haven’t seen him yet though…Once they see him I know it’ll be different. “He’s a point guard but you can put him anywhere and he’ll produce, basically.”

“For Jamal, anywhere he is going we’re looking for him to play and not really to sit; his game is to play. We’re looking for somewhere where he can go in and play.” Father Roger Murray added.

In the United States for game action this weekend at La Lumiere (IN) School the Murray’s will swing through Ann Arbor to visit Michigan as they host Michigan State at Crisler Center Sunday afternoon.

“This was just kind of on the fly,” Murray said. “Coach told me to call them to get up for the game so this is just on the fly.”

“We want to see how the team is setup, how they run the plays, just seeing how it is there, just to see what the environment is like. I’m not the one playing, he’s playing so.”

Murray is also hearing from Illinois, Syracuse, and Louisville, among many others, growing and learning under the tutelage of his father.

“I trained him all his life,” Murray said. “I’d say he doesn’t have much weaknesses. He can get a little more hops probably but he’s just a floor general…He can control the floor, shoot from anywhere, pull up and do all the moves you could imagine, has a nice handle.”

Kitchener, Ont. native Jamal Murray played a key role for Team Canada capturing bronze at the 2013 FIBA Americas U16 Championship in Uruguay. Murray led the Cadet Men’s National Team (CMNT) in scoring in four of the team’s five contests. His best game of the tournament came against Puerto Rico, where he scored a game-high 24 points, while rounding out his night with seven rebounds, three assists and a pair of steals. The 6-3 guard was one of Canada’s more productive players, averaging 17 points on 46 per cent shooting, with averages of six rebounds, three assists and 2.4 steals in the tournament. Jamal and the CMNT will now set their sights on the 2014 U17 FIBA World Championship for Men later this summer.

2016 6’5″ Jamal Murray expected to lead  U17 Team Canada team into the U17 FIBA World Championships this summer in Dubai.

Jamal Murray Sweepstakes

Pole Position

- Syracuse
- Michigan

Roger Murray not one to divulge details but many close to the situation see Jamal Murray ending up close to home. Bordering American cities with Ontario make Syracuse & Michigan obvious favourites from the start.

In The Mix

- Florida
- Illinois
- Louisville

If your not based in Western New York or the state of Michigan it doesn’t mean you don’t stand a chance. However with ‘Cuse & ‘Blue allready rolling out the red carpet you better come aggressive. For example, circle the Athlete Institute HS showcase tournament this March 21-23rd, also add the 2014 Caribana NCAA camp to the agenda too.  Illinois’ has been fond off CIA Bounce talent dating back to losing out on Xavier Rathan Mayes on his decision day. Despite the Negus Webster Chan Louisville debacle, with it’s pedigree of reigning defending champs the Cardinals & Hall Of Fame coach Rick Pitino present a stage for Murray second to none. The same goes for the University of Florida who have been monitoring Murray since he took home the 2013 Jordan Brand MVP award.

#37 in America and climbing. The pride and joy of 519 hoops is on demand and the sweepstakes for his signature have officially begun! Stay tuned.

Michael Asemota “In My Eyes Were The Best Team In Canada”

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Since we first discovered Class of 2016 6’3″ SG Michael Asemota at a camp in Detroit no other 2016 guard has climbed up the rankings ladder quicker. Since then Asemota has won gold with Team Ontario at nationals last summer and parlayed that club success with high school success helping the Notre Dame Knights in Brampton, Ontario go 8-0 in the regular season including a season sweep of city rivals St. Edmund Campion.

Ahead of Thursdays ROPSAA quarter final match up versus who else Campion, Asemota caught up with HHC counterparts. Enjoy!

HHC: Tell us about yourself. Your game, any professional players you draw inspiration from? Any athletes that you aspire to be?

MA: Thank you for being able to share my story. An analyzation of my game would be an athletic scoring guard I draw inspiration and watch alot of Derrik Rose & Damian Lillard.

HHC: When did you first get interested in Basketball? Any accolades along the way your most proud of?

MA: First started playing basketball in grade 6-7 and I played on Team Ontario last summer which was a big honour. I got player of the game for the ROPSAA allstar game last year and a couple MVP’s along the way throughout my career.

HHC: Any challenges your experiencing as a student-athlete on & off the court? How is your support staff with teachers?

MA: Kind of, there are alot of pressures put on you being a student athlete but other people have done it so im confident i can also. My support staff with teachers is okay, if i need extra help my coaches will arrange help after schoool and help me get my grades up.

HHC: About Notre Dame’s Season. Your thoughts on your teams season so far and potential of going the distance down the stretch?

MA: I think our team has the talent and a chance to win ROPSAA and even OFSAA, were a very underated team with a lot of skilled players. Were an athletic and fast team that can shoot at a high level. In my eyes were the best team in Canada.

HHC: About you … Some say your the fatest rising 2016 in the Canadian class over the last 18 months. How have you been able to make such significant strides?

MA: I have just been working at my game. Coaches have been giving me constructive criticsm on my play and I’vs just been trying to implement it. I still have long long way to go though.

HHC: Any daily routines? As you prepare for D1? Anything new you’ve incorporated lately to help propel you to the next level?

MA: Im in the gym basically everyday with practice and games but ive been working on my defence and the mental aspect of the game, giving it my all in practice and games and also developing a killer mindset.

HHC: For AAU who will be travelling with? Also any dream schools in the NCAA you grew up admiring?

MA: Im not 100% sure right now but im practicing with Brampton Elite with Marcus Anderson and Eric Hackett. Its a strong team travelling to multiple high level tournaments in the states. I’ve always liked Memphis and Syracuse, I dont really know why ive just been attracted to those.

Chase Vassell Chasing OFSAA Medal & NCAA Offers

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TORONTO-  Playing with Pine Ridge Secondary School the class of 2014 6’3″ SG Chase Vassell has separated himself from the competition in 2013-14 by dropping an eye opening 17 games of 25+ points. In the process Vassel was also influential in a historic campaign that saw Pine Ridge, for the first time in school history, finish the regular season undefeated. A remarkable 12-0 record.

Pine Ridge Pumas have shown a knack for developing prolific scorers. Jamal Reynolds,  who will join Canisius in September via JUCO poured in more than 50 points three times and over 40 at least 10 times in 2012. He averaged 43 points a game in league play that season. Reynolds now passes the torch on to Chase Vassell.

Hoops Hype Canada caught up with Vassell this week and the Mr. GTAHoops candidate for 2014 discussed various basketball related questions, enjoy!

HHC: Tell us about your game, any professional players you draw inspiration from? Any athletes that you aspire to be?

CV: I am a natural born competitor, who doesn’t go down without a fight. I like to take pride in my defense, and stopping my man, I do a majority of my damage from behind the arc, in transition, and off of screens. I’ll do whatever it takes to help my team win.

Chase Vassell

I draw a lot of inspiration from Steph Curry because he made his dream a reality as he was against all odds. He only got one NCAA d1 scholarship offer out of high school to Davidson, as like me right now standing at 0 offers this gives me hope. Another player that inspires me is Kobe Bryant because of his incredible work ethic, and commitment he has made to the game over the years.

HHC: Any challenges your experiencing as a student-athlete on & off the court? How is your support staff with teachers?

CV: On the court I am willing to work hard and know that the competition is always right behind me. In order to achieve success I know I have to keep working on my weaknesses and continue learning and achieving. The growth process will never be over for me and I look forward to the hard work and exciting times that lie ahead.

Off the court, I have been getting better marks than I was earlier in my high school career finishing with a 72% average last semester.

The support staff with teacher at Pine Ridge is great. All of my current teachers work well with me and understand the goals I have set to reach for myself and want the best for me. One person in particular that helped me get on track, back in grade 10 when we met, was Mrs. Biffin. The Pine Ridge assistant coach and school teacher. She put helped me select all of the right courses I need to gain eligibility for the NCAA. A lot of people had doubts that I could do well in higher level courses but she always had hope in me and supported my decisions.

HHC: About Pine Ridge… Your thoughts on the teams season so far and potential of going the distance down the stretch?

CV: I think that my Pine Ridge team has fully exceeded any expectations we had for this season so far and we are only starting to peak, and at the right time with OFSAA right around the corner.

I think that our team has all of the right tools that a team has to have in order to win a championship. That being height, heart, great defense, great guard play, and players that can score inside and out, along with a strong bench.

Going down the stretch I believe that we have great potential to win our league, LOSSA, and then go on to medal at OFSAA.

HHC: Seventeen 25+ point games this season is outstanding, what do you credit for this season where you have demonstrated such significant strides?

CV: I credit my hard work put in almost every day last summer. This school season I wanted to come in and prove myself as a top Canadian scorer and that I belong.

Also gotta give some of the credit to my great PGs Jordan Henry and Dre Mcintosh. Playing with them really opens up a lot of different scoring opportunities. In the end my individual points do not matter as much as playing as a team and getting the win.

HHC: Any daily routines as you prepare for the next level? Anything new that you have incorporated lately in your training regimes that could help you propel to the next level?

CV: I do extra training 4-5 times a week with my trainer Cedric Carter and Galaxy Training.

HHC: Last but not least, any dream schools growing up?

CV: Two absolute dream schools I had growing up always included Syracuse, and Baylor.

Support Pine Ridge during their LOSAA & OFSAA quests by following @PineRidgeBBall on twitter.

Support Chase Vassell’s journey to D1 basketball by following him on twitter @ChaseBIL

For more round-the-clock coverage on Canadian High School Hoops follow @HoopsHypeCA on twitter.

HoopTownGTA summarizes the sensational season of Chase Vassell in Toronto with Pine Ridge Puma’s.

Coach Miles Talks Campion Core

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Campion tookj home the 2014 Sheridan Cup last weekend.

The Campion Bears knocked off the two-time reigning champions d’Youville Panthers with a 55-45 decision to win the 2014 Sheridan Cup.

St. Edmund Campion are rolling. Since the turn of the new year Coach Miles and company have knocked off both #1 at the time Oakwood 60-52 @ the St. Mike’s Invitational on Jan 12th and #3 at the time d’Youville 55-45 @ the Sherdian Cup on Feb 1st.

Hoops Hype sent staff to Sheridan College last weekend and caught up with head coach of Campion Omar Miles. Celebrating his birthday with a double header, in between group stage games Coach Miles briefly discussed some Campion basketball.

Campion Coach Miles photographed from his playing days at the University of Wilfred Laurier in Waterloo, Ontario.

The former Wilfred Laurier point guard now head coach provides Canadian basketball fans with some in depth intel on a team that is currently firing on all cylinders at the right time of the season. After earning their third tournament title this season it means one thing, St. Edmund Campion are ready for OFSAA TODAY! Read up:

HHC: Group of death here at Sheridan Cup. 8AM versus Ascension then back at it for 1PM facing Xavier. Nice Birthday gift from tournament organizers. Your thoughts on the circumstances?

Omar Miles: Our guys get up for class and we start at 8:12AM  so if we have a game that starts at 8 we should be ready to play a good team like Ascension. Plus I’ve had my guys practicing the last two mornings at 6:30 to prep them for an 8 o clock game.

HHC: Ascension, a couple big wins this year, always tough year in year out, hard working bunch any keys to that success?

Omar Miles: If I had to play them in the playoffs I would have a sleepless night trying to prep for them. Super athletic, long and they get after it. They have to have the same type of attitude as their coach Freddy. He gets them going I told our guys you just have to be more discipline then they are, play smarter and not try to play the up and down game but also control the tempo which I like.

HHC: Xavier deciding game in the group next any scouting reports on them?

Omar Miles: I remember they have a big guy that’s pretty good I coached against him in Junior. I should have a guy to match him in Andrew Anderson if not maybe another guard. We all hang our hats on our defense.

HHC: Now let’s talk Campion roster. The next level guys like Marcus Anderson and Keshaun Saunders get a lot of the hype for Campion, but with a guard like Curwin Elvis, you can kind of fill that void if Marcus sits. Talk to us about 2015 6’6″ Andrew Anderson it looks like this kid is irreplaceable on your team, thoughts?

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Heart and Soul: Andrew Anderson turned down Athlete Institute offers to return to Campion. A leader by example makes him almost irreplaceable.

Omar Miles: Love his motor and I call him my JYD. Same type of attitude, no quit and always getting after it. He may have a bad first half but probably the only player I can chew out and it’s a yes coach I understand. I’ll get it, you don’t have to worry and I love that attitude… Certain guys you have to motivate differently, he has his own motor and own motivation. I have to pull him back a little, calm him down, which is a good thing, he goes, goes, goes and sometimes you got to bring him in but I don’t ever have to motivate him he’s a good self motivator and it’s perfect for us.

HHC: How about 2015 6’3″ CJ Bennett what does he bring to the table?

Omar Miles: Very talented, right now lacking that motor that we talk about in Andrew Anderson. I got to light the fire under his butt and he is always responsive but I need him to be a bit more of a motor and motivating himself to get after it.

HHC: 2016 6’5″ Dylan Gregory had a solid game this morning what does he bring to the table, kind of epitomises your depth right?

Omar Miles: He’s only been playing basketball for three years. Talented, trying to get him to go both ways meaning going right or left. He is really lefty dominant but he has the size and the physical ability. Now he just has to put it all together. Again he’s learning the game, he hasn’t played enough games. He’s trained but not enough basketball games at the elite level. So this year he’s playing for Brampton Elite outside of our basketball so this will be really be back to back basketball seasons that he will be playing at a high level.

HHC: Now the guys who get a lot of hype as far as next level goes and deservingly so. Canada Basketball was high on 2015 6’2 Marcus Anderson can you elaborate what makes him special?

Omar Miles: He has to be the best guard defender in the country. He just harasses and harasses guards. I just tell him keep your aggressiveness till the second half and we just punish guys that way. Offensively he’s still trying to learn the point guard position and for me being a point guard and now coaching I want him to be the coach on the floor and that’s a transition that he’s just going through. Going from two guard and playing rep ball with a guy like Keshon Montague from D’Youville and other guards in Brampton now he has to become that lead point guard if he wants to play at the next level. You know what he was the last cut for the Canadian Cadet team and he was close. I’m sure you know what, they could have used him.

HHC: 2018 6’4″ Keshaun Saunders the household name on both sides of the border and special because he is so young. Called up to the senior team this weekeded, is that something you took into consideration maybe earlier in the season?

Omar Miles: I always want to give kids opportunities. It was difficult to have him on our senior team because we do have a lot of depth. Each of our guys play rep ball or club basketball so I didn’t have enough minutes for him. He also needs to learn how to become a leader, because he plays on a really, really good Bounce grade 9 basketball team and they have guards and the leadership is what is going to take him to the next level, he has the talent, he is very coachable and thats what I love. He had some big plays in the morning game and he is playing against seniors that are 3-4 years older. Future is bright and if he doesn’t stay at Campion at least I can say we got a good one or two years out of a Keshaun Saunders which build the profile of our basketball program but also there is going to be more kids coming up.

Game Report vs Ascension CLICK HERE

Game Report vs Xavier CLICK HERE

Game Report vs D’Youville CLICK HERE

Campion’s basketball history began in the year 2004. In its short history, Campion has made a name for itself in Peel basketball and the rest of Ontario. To Support Campion Basketball on Twitter Follow @CampionBball

 

Game Report Campion vs D’Youville

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When the 2014 Sheridan Cup draw was released, most projected a championship game between Brampton city rivals D’Youville and Campion. Saturday night on campus at Sheridan College Brampton hoop fans in the 905 got their wish.

sherioan Cup

DamiAnn Prehay came out of the gates a man possessed. Knocking down a three ball to open up scoring and bulldozing his way to the FT line for an early 6-0 lead. Keshon Montague’s buzzer beater three ball at the end of the first period gave his Panthers a 12-9 lead after 1. Panthers reserves Christian Gould & Norville Clayton helped stretched DY’s lead to its largest of the night 16-9 early in the second quarter. Campion’s reserve Kean Lopez then stretched the floor re-igniting his Bears for a 13-6 run to even things up at the intermission 22-22.

To open up the second half Marcus Anderson’s bucket gave Campion its first lead of the night 24-22. Back to back blocks from Campion’s Andrew Anderson & DY’s Addy Ogunye got the crowd buzzing. Entering the final frame, led by 5th year Curwin Elvis 8 third quarter points, Campion held a narrow 39-35 lead.

DY’s demise came early in the fourth quarter. After reducing its deficit to 4 points after three quarters, Campion opened up the fourth quarter with a 7-1 run. Midway through the fourth another Kean Lopez deuce gave Campion it’s largest lead of the night 50-39 with under 4 minutes to play. Both squads exchanged points down the stretch and for the Campion Bears who all weekend fired on all cylinders earned their third tournament title of the campaign with a convincing 55-45 total team effort.

TOP PERFORMERS

Campion:

Curwin Elvis a game high 18 points in the Sheridan Cup Championship game.

Curwin Elvis a game high 18 points in the Sheridan Cup Championship game.

2014 6’0” Curwin Elvis 18 points - Skinny frame and a long wingspan for his size. Fast guard with a scorer’s mentality. Corner threes & his constant threats taking the ball coast to coast in transition DY had no answer for.

2016 6’3” Devonte Daniels 13 points – quiet but potent do-it-all performance. Got his touches on post ups, rolls to the hoop, basket cuts showing good decision making skills. Also put the ball on the floor from time to time. Big frame and fundamentally sound.

2014 5’10” Kean Lopes 9 points – Continues to prove himself as one of the most efficient spot up shooters in all of  Canadian high school basketball. Tremendous outside shot. Textbook form. Money behind the arc.


D’Youville:

2015 6’5” DamiAnn Prehay 12 points – Motor on 5th gear was a menace attacking the paint showing he can get to the FT line at will, with a more sense of urgency earning trips to the line and more consistent FT shooting (3-for-7) sky is the limit for Prehay

2016 6’0” Keshon Montague 11 points – lead guard & sound defender held Marcus Anderson to 5 points. Crafty moves created offense for himself, using hesitation moves and a strong crossover. Showed flashes of stopping on a dime after creating his own shot and elevating for his smooth looking jumper.

2015 6’4” Norville Clayton 5 points – limited minutes but threw down two EMPHATIC dunks. Size and length underutilized all season long and no different Saturday. Too good of a rebounder to only be seldom used, a testament to his excellent physical tools.

Game Report: Campion vs Xavier

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logoBRAMPTON- In a battle between Peel regional foes St. Edmund Campion and St. Francis Xavier went head to head with a final four berth in the Sheridan Cup at stake. Early on Campion’s defense was stifling. Midway through the first half the Bears held a 16- 7 advantage. Playing their 2nd game of the day the Bears depth was on full display. Diaper dandy Keshaun Saunders on senior duty demonstrated why he’s been so highly touted. Baby jumpers, drawing contact the south paw’s penetration in both half court and in transition had the crowd buzzing and that seem to spark his teammates resulting in a 15 point half time lead 41-26.

In the 2nd half it was Junior Marcus Anderson leading the way for Campion. Hitting three balls, finishing at the rim with a dunk and showing his coast to coast capabilities as floor general.  He had a game high 15 and invited everybody to the party.  CJ Bennett & Kean Lopez connected three balls meanwhile Quinton Hamilton and Andrew Anderson gave the crowd their money’s worth with a vicious slam dunk each. When the dust settled the score board at the final buzzer was 70-47 Campion.

Campion the winners of the Campion Classic and the George Brown X-Mas bash seem to have bounced back from an early dismissal at the 2013 RimRocker. Next up a semi finals date in the Sheridan Cup Saturday afternoon.

Top Performers

Campion

2016 6’1” PG Marcus Anderson 15 points – Moves off the ball intelligently and seems to have all the attributes needed to play within a system, as he’s a serious, competitive player who seems to know his limitations and puts a good effort in on most possessions.

2018 6’5’ G Keshaun Saunders 11 points- Ultra-aggressive scorer with huge upswing. Can simply rise up on a dime and elevate over defenders. perimeter shooting is getting more and more consistent as time goes on.

Xavier

2016 6’4’ G/F Emanuel Ansay 9 points – Extremely unique prospect due to his combination of size, strength, scoring instincts and ball-handling skills. Has work to do, on the defensive end in particular, but he’s clearly a top-notch prospect for D1

 

 

 

 

Game Report: Campion vs Ascension

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BRAMPTON- In Friday mornings match-up between peel regional rivals, the St. Edward Campion Bears held off the Ascension Eagles 45-41 for victory in their Sheridan Cup opening game. After an 8:00AM tip off the Bears from Brampton broke a deadlock tie at 13-13 with a strong finish right before halftime. Dylon Gregory poured in 8 first half points and was Campion’s catalyst during a 13-4  run that gave Campion a 26-17 lead at the intermission.

Some 2nd half precison shooting behind the arc (3-for-3) from Deshawn Tyrell erased the Eagles defecit with a 23-12 run of their own. All tied up at 40-40 late Campion came out on top. Clutch at the charity stripe for Campion was Curwin Elvis who 4 for 4 shooting FT’s in the final two minutes.

Final Score: Campion 45 Ascension 41

Top Scorers:

Campion

2016 6’5 Dylon Gregory- 11 points in various ways. Off the dribble and in transition.
2015 6’3 CJ Bennett -  9 points & a good effort in both defensively and on the glass.
2015 6’6 Andrew Anderson- 7 points including some man among boys emphatic dunks.
2015 6’0″ Curwin Elvis- 7 points all coming in the 2nd half including clutch FT’s late.

Ascension

2014 6’6 Chris Williams 12 points and several swats.
Deshawn Tyrell 9 points all from behind the arc.

 

Hoop Dreams: Lindell Wiggington

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2017 PG 6'1 Lindell Wiggington

2017 PG 6’1 Lindell Wiggington

For his age he’s one of the best point guards in his province and some argue maybe the entire country.

There is no position deeper in Canada right now than point guard. The country has a bevy of stars competing to be the best, but for 2017 talent you’d have a tough time finding a more complete point guard than Lindell ‘Wiggy’ Wiggington. Younger brother of JuCo Standout & champion Rodell Wiggington.

Late summer nights in Nova Scotia. Lindell and big brother Rodell getting shots up at 2AM

Late summer nights in Nova Scotia. Lindell and big brother Rodell getting shots up at 2AM

“Lindell is the best 2017 PG in the country. He will be the first Canadian to attend Oak Hill in the Fall. 6’1 athletic, highly skilled with a motor.” Reliable sources told Hoops Hype Canada. Also warning folks to monitor the Scotian’s height as he grows older.

“He will grow to at least 6’4 like both his brother (including 6’5 Rodell).”

Oak Hill Academy in Virginia is of one Americas most reputable basketball schools with alumni’s such as Carmelo Anthony, Brandon Jennings and were American national champions four times in the last 9 seasons. Head coach Steve Smith enters his 30th season in charge next September. He will have to fill in a void left by 8 of 12 players on his 2013-14 team that will graduate this June. Wiggington taking his talents to play at Oak Hill could very well be the case.

Recently Hoops Hype Canada caught up with the the talented Ocean Playground point guard. Writing back to us from the 902 listen to what Lindell had to say about his road to the next level so far,

HHC: Tell us about yourself. Your game, any professional players you draw inspiration from? Any athletes that you aspire to be?

LW: My game is like a D.Rose and Westbrook’s type, athletic and explosive. I finish a lot like Rose and real explosive like Westbrook. I kinda try to model my game like a Damian Lillard though, I go at  a guy don’t care who they are and my handle’s are a lot like Lillard.

HHC: When did you first get interested in Basketball? Any accolades along the way?

LW: I first got interested around the age of 4 just growing up watching my brothers made me love the game and I broke my Jr. high school team record last year for points with 54.

HHC: How is the season going so far. Any highlights or exciting moments you can take us back through?

LW: An exciting game I had was against Auburn high school where I had my first dunk in a game 2 hands off 2 feet. Another game was when we played them in our tournament’s championship game. I crossed a guy over bad and hit a mid range jumper and the gym went crazy. It just set us off and we won in the championship against Auburn the number 1 team in the province.

HHC: Any challenges your experiencing as a student-athlete on & off the court? How is your support staff with teachers?

LW: My school supports me all the way. I came to school a couple weeks late because of some prep confusion and was struggling with math but these last couple months school staff has supported me 100 percent in getting my grade up. It’s hard because ball is there but academics is first. It’s so important finding time to get your work done when your off the court.

HHC: How about any routines? As you prepare for D1? Anything new?

LW: I’m in the gym training everyday, handles shooting finishing, coming off the screen reading the defense and I’m even starting to get in the weight room a little bit working on my legs and things like that. Still doing pushups at night.

Last season was kind of a challenge for me because I was trying to get exposure and at the same time get wins on the AAU circuit but it was only my first year and it was everything I expected. This year I’m on a whole other level.

HHC: Last but not least, any Team Canada thoughts or AAU? Who can coaches catch you playing with this summer?

LW: Im with the Roots (Grassroots Elite) I was looking for the right AAU team where I’m gonna play my role and there gonna let me do me and the u17 canada team is definitely a goal for me I’m just gonna come in to the tryouts do me and hopefully that’s what they like and I’ll be the youngest player to contribute on the team.

Lindell was invited to the U16 try out for the national team that participated at the 2013 FIBA Americas. A year younger then most at try-outs Wiggington made it difficult on the selection committee and the end result was being one of the last players who didn’t crack the 12 man roster.

20140201-063320.jpgWhat makes Wiggington good is that he’s obviously got the skills, the shooting, the dribbling, the passing and the quickness, which are all necessary to be a good point guard. Then (he has) the other intangibles like knowledge of the game, toughness, leadership and wanting to have the ball in his hands — those kinds of things near complete his package.

Lindell Wiggington class of 2017. 6’1 and 165 pounds out of Prince Andrew High School in Nova Scotia. Wiggington has no dream school but he does have hoop dreams to play at a high major. Hoops Hype Canada signing off warning you all…do not bet against it!

You can follow and support Lindell on Twitter at @Lwiggington6

Egi: ‘Can Be Better, Will Be Better’

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SPRINGFIELD, MA- Martin Luther King Jr. Day was a great day for Cliff Alexander [Curie (IL)] and for the reputation of Chicago basketball.

Kansas class of 2014 commit, Chicago native 6’9-240-pound Alexander was sensational in Curie’s 73-69 stunner of previously unbeaten Montverde (Fla.). A loss that ended a impressive two-year, 23-game winning streak for Montverde.

Alexander showed the nation he can shoot free throws (8-for-8) and pass out of double-teams while scoring 30 points, grabbing 12 rebounds and blocking five shots. He scored 13 points in the final five minutes and even made two clinching free throws with 17 seconds remaining.

Curie trailed by 12 points in the fourth quarter and still beat the nation’s No. 1 team. Condors came from behind with a 15-0 run after trailing 59-47 early in the fourth quarter.

Chris Egi vs Cliff Alexander

Among insiders entering this battle it was always a ‘David vs Goliath’ match up for Montverde’s lone Canadian Chris Egi. Markham, Ontario native Egi only scored 2 points despite being a double digit scoring threat all season long.

For example, Cliff Alexander entering Mondays showcase was a top-5 2014 class talent in America.

Egi was the 100th-best prospect and 11th-best center in the 2015 class. Recently Egi chose to reclassify into the class of 2014 and made himself eligible to play next season after commiting to Harvard.

In 2013-14 Egi has played well transitioning schools from north to south of the border. Coach Kevin Boyle recently mentioned Egi as the most improved player on his squad. One that consists of a collection of all-stars ranked No. 1 nationally by USA Today.

Montverde Academy head coach Kevin Boyle giving Chris Egi instructions.

 

About the Monday performance, Egi told Hoops Hype Canada reporters via text,

“Yeah it was a tough one he [Cliff Alexander] played great (and) we didn’t I didn’t” Egi admitted.

Also reiterating nothing to be concerned about,

“I can be better I will be better.”

 

 

Rematch Different Story?

Do you think Curie would of beaten Montverde, or perhaps Egi and his Eagles would’ve had a better performance if they didnt play 4 games in the same weekend?

Egi protecting the Canadian rim vs Team USA at the 2013 U19 World Championships.

Some food for thought…

Montverde did play 4 games in 5 days and had to travel from Missouri (Bass Pro Shop Championships) to Massachusetts (Spalding Hoop Hall Classic). Fresh off lifting a crown, 36 hours they went down to the wire in a showcase game on national television.

NCAA scout on the specific Egi vs Alexander matchup,

“You put him [Chris Egi] up against Cliff (Alexander) in different circumstances I don’t think Alexander would of dominted like he did.”

Adding “One thing ill say about Egi he is a great defender and is one of the reasons Montverde has been great all year, yesterday was not him.”

Hmmm

The Marathon continues for Montverde & Egi.

Follow Chris Egi on twitter during his  journey to Harvard and beyond.

Follow Montverde Basketball on twitter on their quest to a national championship.

Follow Hoops Hype Canada on twitter for round-the-clock coverage of Canadian hoops.

Lyles Lock For Nike Summit, Egi & Zabo In Mix

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On Monday morning USA basketball announced its team for the 2014 Nike Hoop Summit. Selection of the pending World Team is stil being finallised.

Saskatchewan born Trey Lyles (Arsenal Tech, IN) is highly projected to represent Canada on the World Team.

Gatineau, QC’s Kevin Zabo (Brewster Academy) and Markham, ON’s Chris Egi (Montverde Academy) are also potential Canadians in the mix to represent the maple leaf later this season in Portland.

Recently mother of the Canadian Kentucky basketball signee Lyles shared with the Central Kentucky News how she’s always been involved in Trey’s career,

Jasenka Lyles and Trey Lyles

“I keep our school stats. Tom coaches. It is exciting. We of course want them to always win. Most of all we want them to play together as a team. They have each others’ backs. I have been the team mom ever since he has been playing, even through high school. AAU days, everything. I have boxes and boxes of stats. We have always been very involved in Trey’s basketball and education. We are a very close-knit family. Tom has been his only trainer. He is assistant coach. We are all very well connected.”  Treys mother Jasenka Lyles mentioned.

The Nike Hoop Summit has a tradition of featuring the world’s upcoming basketball talent. This annual basketball game is played under international rules and features the USA Basketball Men’s Junior National Select Team, comprised of the top high school boy senior players, playing against a World Select Team, comprised of top players 19-years-old or younger from around the world.

The 2014 Hoop Summit will be played Saturday April 12th, at 4:30pm in Portland, Oregon at the Moda Center.

For a Complete List of all World Team Participants CLICK HERE

Brooks Represents ‘Bounce’ At Findlay

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Another Canadian talent that you have to admire for his ambition is former Henry Carr Crusader phenom 2015 6’6″ Dillon Brooks.

Instead of staying home in the Toronto, ON area, the CIA Bounce athlete decided to take his talents to Findlay Prep.

Adding to a long list of Peel Region talent and former CIA Bounce athletes to have worn the Findlay shirt in the past (Tristan Thompson, Anthony Bennett, Naz Long, Madray etc).

He now rubs shoulders with the best high school talent in America. Traveling, tossing it up on one of the most difficult high school circuits in North America. Full well knowing nothing was guaranteed and nobody owed him anything Brooks still admirably accepted the challenge to attend high school in Las Vegas.

After joining an entire new team (9 new players at Findlay), a new head coach (Jerome Williams hired in Summer of 2013) Hoops Hype Canada caught up with the Mississauga, Ontario native and talked about his Findlay Prep experience.

“All I got to do is stay focused through out and kill. The team is great they accepted me as one of there brothers. Had a lot of bumps but we are good” Brooks explained through email.

Brooks spent his Canadian high school career with Canadian powerhouse Father Henry Carr. He touched on his improvements since departing Canada in August. Crusader coach Paul Melnyk told HHC last summer his “jump out of your seat” athletcism would be missed. Brooks arrived on campus in Nevada fresh off a 38-2 campaign last year with FHC.

“I’m more confident with the ball in my hand dribbling and more determined but overall I feel I’ve gotten better.” Said Brooks about his personal improvements this season.

Findlay Prep play on national television across America as they participate in the marquee 2014 Spalding Hoop Hall Classic on Martin Luther King Monday.

Later in the year Findlay prep will travel to Toronto the weekend of March 2nd for a match versus Bill Crothers. The showcase game is scheduled to take place on the Toronto Raptors home floor and 2 hours prior to the Golden State Warriors & Toronto Raptors scheduled NBA game. The home coming and opportunity to play in front of family and friends is something Brooks is looking forward to.

“It’s going to be great playing there. I have never played there and it will be fun & good to be back in my city. Canadian love.” the 17 year old prospect wrote.

Brooks photographed at Findlay Prep practice earlier this fall.

At Findlay Brooks is under the tutelage of former Raptor and NBA professional Jerome Williams. Coach JYD the first year head coach of the Pilots also shared his thoughts on Brooks since his arrival in Vegas,

“Dillon “Bounce” Brooks has truly matured as a player this year. His defense at the beginning of the year wasn’t where it needed to be for the next level of competition and he has made a conscious effort to put the work in to improve that facet of his game.” Williams said of Dillon’s defence.

“Offensively, [Dillon Brooks] Bounce can score the basketball. He will only become more polished with time and attention to detail. He has been a joy to coach & mentor.” Coach Williams concluded.

Great news from Findlay on one our own. Energy, intensity, offense, defense, and ton of emotion…that’s the winner that Dillon Brooks is and Findlay Prep received.

McKnight Drops 13 Points At Hoop Hall

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Admire his ambition.  Or at the very least his competitive juices.

Kamar McKnight

2015 6’3″ Southpaw Kamar McKnight in his St.Bens digs

2015 6’3” Kamar McKnight of St. Benedict’s is pissed off for greatness and with a new found home in Newark, New Jersey he’s ready to make himself a household name back in Canada.  Just ask Gray Bee’s assistant Art Pierson.

“Spirit wise he’s a high motor type of guy for us. Were very excited to have him and the most important part about Kamar to us at St. Benedicts is he is only a junior. We’re going to do some real good things with Kamar.” Said Coach Pierson in preparation for the Hoop Hall Classic.

Not even ranked by the so called ‘Leader of Canadian Basektball” North Pole Hoops, the Toronto native is looking beyond national rankings back home. Such as high school success that will take him to the next level. So far so good, after a eye opening AAU circuit, and a transition from St. Patrick’s to St. Benedict’s the Canadian southpaw is showing significant strides south of the border.

“ Combo guard and he’s a lefty. Defensively he knows where his rotations are. I guess when he came back from St. Patrick’s they did some good work with him. His defense on the ball is very, very impressive. Strong rebounder too ” Coach shared when asked to describe the play of Kamar McKnight.

Kamar McKnight with Gray Bee’s alumni New York Knicks shooting guard J.R. Smith

With a game like James Harden standing 6’3’ sky is the limit. Only thing holding him back is optimal health. Something that is bound to some slowly but surely.

“He is coming back from the pre season injury so sometimes he get’s winded. He’s a solid young man. With that and missing the pre season because of injury he’s a bit behind and could be a bit step slower than usual. But thats the only downside to his game,” admitted Pierson.

At the 2014 Spalding Hoop Hall Classic McKnight and his Gray Bee’s went up against Arlington Country Day of Jacksonville, Florida who (ACD) boasts four senior commits. What does the caliber of competition and platform mean to Kamar? Hoops Hype Canada caught up with the south paw for a respsonse,

“Its great participating in such a great event where many great players have played in” “ Mcknight makes aware of the greats that have participated in the past (Durant, Irving etc).

2014 HoopHall Classic. St. Bens vs ACD.

After dropping 13 points in a tight loss to Arlington Country Day, an NCAA certfied scout watching Kamar told Hoops Hype Canada they approved of his ‘effective game, using his body to create space and draw contact in the lane.’

On the 2013-14 season, the Toronto native is gaining confident as each game passes,

Kamar McKnight

Class of 2015 6’3″ Kamar McKnight pictured playing for Grassroots Canada this summer.

“With our season I see us getting better everytime we step on the floor. Individually I feel I’m becoming a great leader and scoring the ball great to help the team. Also happy to be shooting 80%+ from the line which is a big improvement for me”  the well spoken and motivated McKnight shared.

Entering Sunday’s fixture St. Benedict’s were 12-2. Not bad for team who lost four starters and only had one returning player. With players like Kamar arriving on the season and making contributions early and often he has fit quite nicely for the Gray Bee’s.

“I think that with Kamar’s work ethic and the way that his leadership skills are, his qualities and the way he shoots the ball were going to be fine against Arlington Country Day.” Said a confident coach.

“Were just happy, happy with our guys the way they’re coming around and understanding what Coach Taylor is demanding, and they’re starting to execute and were having fun.”

When asked if Kamar McKnight regularly starts Coach Pierson hesitated to say so but did give the notion that McKnight plays a large part to their success,

“All depends on our matchups, and how we prepared the last couple of days. But a player like Kamar  lfor example if he doesn’t start a lot of times, he still ends up at the end of the day leading our team in scoring. So not pre mature to say that he will be in our top six rotation”

Already on the table as a junior are offers from both VCU and Colorado. Two programs who’ve been in the Top 25 polls allready in 2013-14. The calibre of college programs knocking on Kamar’s door reflects the rise in his stock since he took his talents south. Keep an eye on man with a plan. You heard it here first. Kamar McKnight.

2017 Jerome Desrosiers Sweepstakes 1.0

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2017 6’7″ SF Jerome Desrosiers of Northfield Mount Hermon (MA) has offers from BC, Illinois & Baylor. Interest from Ohio State, UCLA & Purdue he told media @ the 2014 Spalding Hoop Hall Classic.

Class of 2017 6’7″ SF Jerome Desrosiers the pride and joy of Saint-Hyacinthe, QC.

Playing infront of several college coaches, Kevin Ollie of UCONN & company Desroiers and Northfield Mount Hermon defeated Kimball Union 80-51. Most likely due to seniority the Canadian member of the class 2017 played limited minutes.

A native of Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Desrosiers took his talents to Massachusettes in September. Word on Desrosiers is spreading that he possesses great court awareness, plays through contact and has great upside.

Desrosiers the freshman at Northfield Mount Hermon was one of twelve class of 2016 Canadians thar was selected for the cadet squad which participated at the 2013 U16 FIBA Americas in Uruguay last summer. Canada finished 3rd place and qualified for this summers FIBA U17 Worlds going down in Dubai this August. If healthy Desrosiers seems destined for Dubai.

 

World Class Ergas Explosiveness

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2015 6’3″ Jamar Ergas showed his crazy bounce at the 2014 Flyin To The Hoop event in Dayton, Ohio Saturdaty. The 2015 prospect from Canada has been known as a high flyer since 8th grade and he continues to wow fans with his explosiveness. Currently ranked 17th by North Pole Hoops all though most experts in Canada have him pencilled top 10.

After dealing with a early season injury, Ergas came back in December. The high flyer from Canada made his return to the court in style with not one, but two highlight reel dunks against visiting Prominence Prep (NC)

Follow @HoopsHypeCa for your round the clock coverage on Canadian hoops and our friends at @ScarberryMedia for the latest highlights in American high school basketball.

St. Bens Assistant: Ennis A Lottery Pick

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No secret in grassroots basketball that St Benedict Prep produces top basketball talent. Located in Newark, New Jersey Head coach Mark Taylor, assistant coach Bob Farell and Art Pierson, have done another masterful coaching job at St. Benedict Prep.

Hoops Hype Canada casught up with Art Pierson the assistant at St.Benedicts who is ranked the # 1 prep basketball team in New York State and was  # 2 in the country in 2012-13.

Last year led by none other then Brampton, Ontario point guard Tyler Ennis. Who was accompanied by fellow Canadians Isaiah Watkins, Denzell Taylor and Tyrell Bellot Green. So is Pierson suprised with Ennis?  A freshman for Syracuse who facilitates the current 17-0 Orangemen ranked at the top of the NCAA ranks.

Syracuse Orangemen diper dandy Tyler Ennis

“Tyler to me looks the same way at Syracuse like he did at St.Benedicts. What I mean by that, you go from playing in a gym at St. Benedict’s in front of 50-100 people then to a gym with twenty thousand and he doesn’t get rattled. That’s Tyler. He’s a special, special young man and we are very, very proud of him.” Art Pierson shared via telephone.

The Toronto Star recently wrote a piece with a story Mark Taylor shared. It was two years ago, in Ennis’s junior year at St. Benedict’s preparatory school in Newark, N.J.. An opposing player stripped Ennis of the ball and scored. On his way back up court, the player clapped in Ennis’s face.

Ennis didn’t say a word — didn’t even react — his former coach recalled.

“Tyler speaks for himself, what he’s doing at Syracuse is no surprise to us. I spent alot of time with Tyler and it was a joy. Academically he was sound, athletically he was sound, and his demeanour on the floor has not changed.” Pierson added.

Ennis here as senior at St.Benedicts

When asked to compare Ennis to past point guards Pierson has coached, including Duke’s Jayson Williams the New York native assisstant to Mark Taylor offered this,

“2 different games.  But Tyler will definitely be a lottery pick. Maybe even this year and so was Jayson Williams.” 

Ennis was the first Canadian Pierson had the privilage to coach, then came Isaiah Watkins, Tyrell Bellot Green, Denzell Taylor and now this year Kamar McKnight. Asked for what the Canadian ballers all have in common and Pierson responded,

“I met Tyler two years ago, we had Denzell Taylor (ODU) Isaiah  Watkins (Duquense) Tyrell Bellot Green (Juco),  and now Kamar McKnight. For the five that we’ve had were very very pleased with. They come over and they’re willing to work. To do whatever it needs and takes.” sounds like some tunnel vision for the next level. Canadians playing competitive New York high school basketball and recieving compliments. You gotta love it.

Tyronn King Sweepstakes 1.0

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2015 6’1″ Tyronn King is a combo guard at Arlington Country Day in Jacksonville, Florida. Currently ranked 21st overall in the North Pole Rankings.

Former West Hill Collegiate Institute student from Scarborough, Ontario spoke with HHC about his transition this past year at Arlington,

“As a team we have had a few losses that shouldn’t have happened but we are just looking to move forward from them” King said about his teams success.

As for individual success, “I’m on a roster loaded with all seniors and 4 current commits (all gaurds ). I try to come off the bench and impact the game any way I can” King in his junior season admitted.

Tyronn King is another in the long line of Canadian hoop stars playing the U.S. The 6’1 170 lbs. PG prospect says “It would be great to play at the college level with my fellow Canadian highflyer Jamar Ergas, we’ve been playing together for a number of years now and know each other’s game like the back of our hands.”

Tyronn King is another in the long line of Canadian hoop stars playing in the U.S.

LSU, Eastern Kentucky, and DePaul have shown strong interest Tyronn says. King maintains that “Of those main 3, LSU stands out.”

No visits have been set yet for Tyronn but he says “Some will be planned soon though.” 

What does the privilege of participating in a prestige event like the 2014 Spalding Hoop Hall Classic mean to him?

“It is great to be able to participate in an event filled with the best teams & players in the country” King commented.

Last but not least where can we expect to see Tyronn toss it up for AAU?

“I’m currently not sure 100 %, going to find the best fit come spring… weather it’s a Southern based team or a Canadian based team.”

King as a youth in Toronto broke the TDSB record for most points in an elementary school game with 79.

Sunday @ 2:30 PM Arlington Country Day will draw St.Benedicts Prep in Springfield, MA. It will mark the first head to head match at the 2014 Spalding Hoop Hall Classic. 2015 Kamar McKnight will be on the other side representing his Gray Bees of St.Bens.

Teki 13 & 9 vs Prime Prep

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In a showdown of two top 25 teams in American HS basketball #24 Prime Prep (TX) & #25 Huntington Prep (WV), it was the boys from West Virginia who were victorious Saturday night in Springfield, MA.

Collage of Huntington Prep photos. Montague Gill Caeser photographed in the middle. Vaughan native is a Kentucky target for the class of 2014.

Tossing it up at the 2014 Spalding Hoop Hall Of Fame Classic, one of the marquee High School Basketball events in America, Huntington Prep knocked off Prime Prep 52-48. Prime Prep the only team from Texas to be ranked nationally in the top 25 is owned by Deion Sanders the former NFL/MLB star nicknamed Prime Time. They also boast one of the best guards in America. Emmanuel Mudiay the Southern Methodist Mustangs commit who will be coached next year by hall of fame coach Larry Brown.

“Was great team effort on defense. Mudiay best guard in the country and it took everyone to make it difficult on him tonight.” Head coach Rob Fulford told HHC about the big win on a big stage.”  Emmanuel Mudiay finished with 20 points, for Prime Prep.

Huntington got a strong contribution from Vaughan, Ontario’s 2015 6’6″ SF Montague Gill Caeser who led Huntington with an efficient 13 points on 5-for-10 shooting in addition to 9 rebounds. Enhancing his reputation as an elite small forward in his class.

Huntington (W.Va.) Montaque Gill-Caesar doesn’t mind the comparisons to teammate Andrew Wiggins, but he has aspirations of being even better. / RD Phifer

“He played very well. Was great on the glass and on defense. Made open shots. He was solid as usual.” Coach Fulford added.

According to the Phenoms Hoops Report Gill Ceasar aka displayed a strong build to go along with his perimeter skill set. He made shots, mostly in the mid range and rebounded his position very well. Also appointing him MVP

Prime Prep (Tx) 48

Huntington Prep (WV) 52

Prime Prep Scoring
Emmanuel Mudiay 20, Terrence Ferguson 13, Micah Seaborn 11, Paul Washington 4

Huntington Prep Scoring
Montaque Gill-Caesar 13, JaQuan Lyle 11, Thomas Bryant 11, Miles Bridges 10, Josh Perkins 4, Jalen Lindsey

VIDEO Huntington Prep vs. Prime Prep highlights from HoopHall Classic 2014 

Next up for Huntington Prep they head to Dayton, Ohio, for a Monday matchup at Flyin’ To The Hoop against Cleveland Central Catholic. On January 25, the Irish play in the Dunk4Diabetes event at Walsh University in Canton, Ohio, against Cleveland Shaker Heights.

Chris Egi Lift’s Crown: MVA 18-0

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The Montverde Academy (Fla.) Eagles were not going to lose in the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions title game two years in a row.

After losing to Paul VI 69-67 in an overtime thriller last year, the Eagles returned to Springfield in 2014 and left with the Tournament of Champions crown.

Chris Egi pictured in the semi final slamming it down. Photo Courtesy of Ozone.

Chris Egi and his Montverde Eagles extended their unbeaten record to 18-0 by adding another trophy to their allready loaded trophy case. MVA took down Memphis (Tenn.) White Station 73-60 in the T of C title game Saturday night, a matchup of two teams ranked in the top 15 nationally by MaxPreps.

10,065 fans were on hand at JQH Arena for the championship game. The 3-day total was around 25,000, according to Springfield Publics School athletics director and T of C director Mark Fisher.

Canadian Chris Egi collected 13 points on 5-for-6 shooting. Egi is that type of big man that beats everybody up the floor. Perfect on both ends of a press. 6’9″ athlete whose athleticism can handle the full court press fantasticly. His athleticism makes his switches, constant guarding and staying in front of his man on defense easy and as a end result a luxury for his team.

Head coach Kevin Boyle recently told American media he is proud of the 17 year old that transferred to Montverde Academy from St. Andrews College in the greater Toronto area.

Montverde Academy head coach Kevin Boyle talks with Chris Egi.

Since arriving in Florida late last August, Coach Boyle has recently mentioned the Markham, Ontario native as the most improved player on his team.

News of a quick learning curve is music to the ears of Canadian supporters and the Harvard basketball brass. Harvard is where Egi will make contributions for the Crimson starting in September of 2014. Next stop for Egi and his Eagles is the 2014 HoopHall Classic.

The nations top ranked team has an early flight on Sunday to Springfield, MA where on Monday on ESPNU it will face no.6 Curie and its Mr.Basketball USA candidate center Cliff Alexander.

Montverde is great in transition but underneath doesn’t have the brute power defensively it did last season so it will be interesting to see how the Eagles slow down Alexander. Bets are Chris Egi will be instrumental. Either way they’ll also be playing against their second top 10 nationally ranked team in less then 36 hours half way across the country Has the makings of a intersting Monday.

Montverde 73, White Station 60

MV 19 13 17 24 — 73

WS 18 12 11 19 — 60

Zabo, Egi Represent 2014′s In Springfield

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Only 2 of 10 Canadians participatong at the 2014 Spalding Hoop Hall Classic are 2014`s and both are committed to D1 schools next September. Ironiclly both are alumni’s and ambassadors for the Canadian power house AAU program CIA Bounce.

Meet Kevin Zabo & Chris Egi:

Name: Kevin Zabo aka General Of Gatineau
Ht: 6’2″ Position: Point Guard AAU: CIA Bounce
Hometown: Gatineau, QC
High School: Brewster Academy
Interested Colleges: Committed to San Diego State

 ”It’s always an honour to be invited to one of the best tournaments in the nation like Hoop Hall. This will be my third year going so i’ll have a little bit more experience and I know what to expect in terms of the level of competition.” - Kevin Zabo on Hoop Hall.

According to Rivals.com, Zabo committed to the Aztecs over offers from West Virginia, Iowa State, Illinois and George Washington and with high interest from Uconn and Villanova

“My season is going well so far. We are playong really well as a group. As for me I’ve been playing good. I’m mainly focusing on getting ready for college next year so there`s not a day where I dont work hard so I can be ready for the next level.” -Kevin Zabo on 2013-14 season 

Name: Chris Egi aka The Valedictorian
Ht: 6’9″ Position: Forward/Center
AAU: CIA Bounce
Hometown: Markham, ON
High School: Montverde Academy
Interested Colleges: Committed to Harvard

“Ì think its a blessing to be able to participate. Just to have a chance to go up against top notch talent from around the country. That competition is what the games all about and I love it. For me that`s fun.” Chris Egi on Hoop Hall.

17 year old Chris Egi chose the Crimson of Harvard for college. Perfect match for his 4.53 GPA and 97% average.

“We are having a great season as a team being number 1 in America and undefeated and we hope to continue that, Individually I just want to help win games!“ Chris Egi on 2013-14

Before Egi arrives in Hoops City he will have some business in Springfield, MO. Home of the Bass Pro Championships. The most attended tourment in high school basketball. Games wrap up on Saturday night.

Follow  Hoops Hype CA on twitter to be kept posted on how these two studs do.

Sunday 6:30 – Wilbarham & Monson vs Brewster Academy

followed by

Monday 3:30 – Curie vs Montverde Academy

Dozen Canadians Present At Hoop Hall

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11 Canadians will have the privelage to particpiate in the 2014 Hoop Hall Classic held at the home of the Basketball Hall Of Fame in Springfield, ON.

Class of 2014:

6’2″ PG Kevin Zabo, Brewster
6’9″ C Chris Egi, Montverde
6’7″ F Connor Gilmore, Cushing Academy

Class of 2015:

6’6″ SF Montague Gill Caeser, Huntington Prep
6’3″ CG Kamar McKnight, St.Benedicts Prep
6’6″ SF Dillon Brooks, Findlay Prep
6’2″ PG Tyronn King, Arlington Country Day
6`0`PG Munis Tutu, La Lumiere

Class of 2016:

6’7″ G/F Justin Jackson, Findlay
6’2″ PG Nate Darling, DeMatha

Class of 2017:

6’6″ F Jerome Desrosiers, Northfield Mount Hermon
6’6″ F Oshae Brissett, Findlay

In 2012 , seven alumni of the high school invitational put on by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame were selected in the first round of the NBA draft. In 2013? Nine former Hoophall ballers were drafted in the first round, including the first and second picks.

No. 1 overall Anthony Bennett was injured and did not participate as a junior or senior when Findlay College Prep was present.

Like last year, the year before and the previous nine years before that, the 2014 Hoophall Classic, to be held Jan. 16-20, will feature many of the top teams and players in the country.

In a nutshell some top schools headed to the Hoophall Classic include Montverde Academy (Fla.), Findlay Prep (Nev.), Oak Hill (Va.), Prime Prep Academy (Texas), Mater Dei (Calif.) and St. Anthony (N.J.).

SCHEDULE

Saturday
12:00 – Putnam vs Woodstock Academy
1:30 – Springfield Central vs Albany Academy
3:00 – Bishop O’Connell vs Rainier Beach
4:30 – Lincoln vs Yates
6:00 – St. Frances Academy vs St. John Bosco
8:00 – Huntington Prep vs Prime Prep

Sunday
11:00 – Kimball Union vs Northfield Mount Hermon
12:30 – Cushing Academy vs Worcester Academy
2:00 – St. Benedict’s vs Arlington Country Day
3:30 – Our Savior New American vs LaLumiere School
5:00 – DeMatha vs St. Joseph
6:30 – Wilbarham & Monson vs Brewster Academy

Monday *ESPNU will broadcast four games on Monday from the Hoophall Classic*
9:45 – St. Anthony vs Paul VI
11:30 – Wesleyan Christian vs Findlay Prep
1:30 – Oak Hill vs Whitney Young
3:30 – Curie vs Montverde Academy 
5:30 – St. John Neumann-Maria Goretti vs Mater Dei

Quality Hoop Hall Reads:

Oh My Jordy! 6’10″ Southpaw Surfaces

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Oh My Jordy. A 2016 southpaw has surfaced.

Born in November of 1996 and nicknamed “La Foudre”, French for thunder, a certain Canadian big man is earning praise from all kinds of American analysts. Some have even called him Baby Z-Bo. Nicknamed after his left hand and similar back to the basket game as Memphis Grizzlies Zach Randolph. Born & raised in Montreal, QC, currently listed as a 2016 6’10 center, Jordy Tshimanga attends MacDuffie in Granby Massachusetts. In 6 weeks he has landed SPLASHED on top of the 2016 Canadian class rankings.

20140117-121148.jpg

6’10″ Jordy Tshimanga (Montreal/MacDuffie HS) has made a splash in American HS hoops.

“Chance to be top big man in his grade (2016). Soft hands, solid jump hook, good footwork, high motor and big body” the reputable Alex Klien from the Recruit Scoops has written.

Hoop Dream Magazine got a glimpse of Tshimanga and offered the following on the big Canadian, “He showed better touch around the rim today and worked harder to get position in the post as well. Physically he looks like a high-major priority, and his skill set is starting to come around as well.” the HDM website shared after watching him toss it up last weekend in their very own Hoop Dream Magazine showcase.

Still not convinced? Adam Finklestein from the New England Recruiting Report, “He’s got a lot of tools and looks to have a chance to be very good if he can improve his conditioning and be able to keep up with the pace of the game.” Finklestein offered. Head coach @ MacDuffie Jerry McCullough told Hoops Hype CA counterparts,

Jordy Tshimanga Macduffie

Southpaw with size and strength that is shown here demonstrated at MacDuffie practice.

“Basically over here when he first arrived…We took a chance on him I mean that size why not. Now he’s just a young player opening eyes. Legit 6’10 south paw 280lbs” McCullough the head coach at MacDuffie admitted.

Thrilled to welcome a diaper dandy like Tshimanga but coach McCullough said it’s been bittersweet  because since a injury to Quinnipiac bound MacDuffie senior guard Dimitri Floras (injured wrist) occurred, it has has taken a toll on the teams win loss record. Floras was one of eight nominated players from Massachusetts to the McDonalds All American game. The 6-foot-2 guard in his first season at MacDuffie picked Quinnipiac over other scholarship offers from Canisius, Hofstra, LIU-Brooklyn, New Hampshire and Manhattan.

Minus Floras, Tshimanga continues to be one of the quickest stock risers in not only Canada’s 2016 class but should soon be among the top in America’s national rankings by the time AAU season ends. Especially if this keeps up. McCullough admits that with Tshimanga’s rapid rise of production its expected not only NCAA programs but also big wigs of HS basketball in America (Oak Hill’s, Findlays & Montverdes) to soon start making their pitches. A sentiment that Canadian born principal at MacDuffie Steve Griffin can understand.

“Oh yea come down the line. But to our credit we compete as a member of the strong Class AA of the NEPSAC (New England Prep School Athletic Council) one of the top leagues in the states” Griffin says along with their circuit he claims confidence in his head coach as well. “Under Jerry McCullough’s guidance, our varsity basketball program has played a competitive schedule that in the past few seasons student athletes have earned attention and interests from many college scouts.” Griffin believes MacDuffie School is still one of the elite programs in the New England area for academics and basketball development.

As for the principle’s take on the thunderous Tshimanga? “He is mountain of a young man, great student & personality thats fitting in real well in our community”

CANADA WE HAVE A BIG MAN: 6’10′ Joel Tshimanga a rare traditional back to the basket big man in the Canadian ranks.

Can he be that good? Good enough that he averaged 20 points per game at the St . Andrews Classic. A tourney where young Jordy @JordyBallHard33 more then stood his own against Goodluck Okonoboh (Monson Academy, MA) a local Massachusettes star, ranked 21st on ESPN’s Top 100 Class of 2014 and who will also be attending UNLV.

Already seeing double and triple teams looks like the Great White North has a big import storming up the rankings. Keep an eye out for Jordy Tshimanga!

Tweet us your thoughts on perhaps the future center for Canada on the international scene @HoopsHypeCA

Eagles Enter #1, Egi Ready For Alexander

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Montverde has had a remarkably quick rise to the top of the high school basketball world under coach Kevin Boyle, now in his third year in Florida.

Montverde Academy head coach Kevin Boyle talks with Chris Egi during the team’s practice on on Thursday Nov. 14, 2013.

Fresh off a crown at the Pro Bass Shop Tournament of Champions earlier this weekend the Eagles arrive in Springfield, MA 18-0-0 and ranked No. 1 in the nation by USA Today ahead of Monday’s marquee clash with  Curie (Illinois). MVA destroyed Oak Ridge (Orlando) in their last game, 93-57, behind Bend Simmons’ 22 points and seem poised to put up a strong effort in this one.

Eagles are led by 5-star junior Ben Simmons, who is considered one of the better players in the Class of 2015 and also feature Markham, Ontario native & Harvard bound big man Chris Egi. On Martin Luther King Day Monday Egi will have the tall task of slowing down the Currie Condors elite power forward Cliff Alexander. Who is the No.3 overall player in the class of 2014. His condors are 13-1 and Cliff has been the catalyst for their success.

Montverde Academy’s Chris Egi lets out a scream after dunking the ball during their game against Abraham Lincoln High School.

Alexander dropped 29 points and 17 rebounds in his last outing, a 75-59 shellacking of North Chicago. He’s been absolutely terrifying for defenders to try and stop, something that has rarely happened this season.

This weekend marks both a challenge Chris relishes and a playing stage he will cherish. Texting from Florida Tuesday night Egi explained,

“I think its a blessing to be able to participate. Just to have a chance to go up against top notch talent from around the country. That competition is what the games all about and I love it. For me thats fun” said the future Crimson Tide who commmited to Harvard this past fall.

“In terms of Cliff (Alexander) he’s a great player. I respect his game and I’m just going to go out there and compete. I know he’ll do the same” said the former St.Andrew’s College and CIA Bounce stand out.

“Individually I just want to help win games” Egi reiterated. “But the event is about the team and not any individual match ups. We are having a great season as team, are undefeated and we just hope to continue that”

As for his first season off the court in Florida? Nicknamed the “Valedictorian” amongst Canadian basketball fans, get this, the team player and model student athlete owns a stellar 4.53 gpa and 97 percent average. Moving forward to the next level he is a physical player who competes with a ton of energy on both sides of the court and should be able to make an immediate impact for Harvard in the Ivy League.

Since taking his talents South Egi has only enhaced his reputation of soft hands, quick feet with tremendous instincts around the basket. Keep on going Chris, sky is the limit.

Teki & H-Prep All Set For HHClassic

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Huntington Prep head coach Rob Fulford returned to the sidelines Tuesday night after missing two games to be with his wife, Stephanie, in preparation for the birth of their daughter, Brooklyn.

In Fulford’s return to the bench Huntington Prep continued it’s winning ways at home by defeating Alice Lloyd College JV team 116-63.

2015 6’6″ F Montague Gill Caeser (Huntington Prep) also plays on the AAU circuit for CIA Bounce.

Undeclared Canadian 2015 6’6″ F Montague Gill Caeser aka Teki from Vaughn, Ontario registered 18 points 10 rebounds. meanwhile his counterpart a top five 2014 class point guard Josh Perkins collected 10 points and 15 assists.

Coach Fulford approved Gill Caeser’s performance, “He was good, Missed some in the paint not going through contact but overall played very well.” head coach of Huntington told Hoops Hype Canada.

Up next the Irish head to the Spalding Hoop Hall Classic, played at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass.

Huntington Prep will meet up with Prime Prep (Texas). Last season the teams met at the Cancer Research Classic in Wheeling and Prime Prep’s 59-46 victory knocked the then-No. 1 team nationally from the unbeaten ranks.

In the latest XCellent 25 released by MaxPreps, Prime Prep is No. 24 while Huntington Prep is No. 25.

“We are both in the same situation,” Fulford told the Herald Dispatch during preparation “We’ve both had tough schedules and have dropped some games. This becomes a huge game.” Coach Fulford also reiterated his squad remembered last years defeat “And there’s no question it’s a revenge game for us. It’s a different season and different group, but we don’t get to create rivalries very often because of the nature of showcases and scheduling. This one had that type of feel last year with all the talk surrounding it.”

As for the Gill Caeser the Kentucky Wildcat target whom John Calapari has encouraged to reclassify for next fall (2014) has also drawn Duke’s interest according to his head coach. That said he will participate in his second consecutive Hoop Hall Classic with his Huntington squad and its something he cherishes.

“I’m excited to play in it for the second year in a row.” The Vaughan, Ontario native shared Tuesday night with HHC “The Hoop Hall tourney is really fun. All the best talent in high school is there so it makes it a very competitive atmosphere which is what you need as a player”  explained Teki.

Gill-Caesar’s spotlight last summer grew because of stellar play. For example he was named International Co-MVP at the 2013 Nike Global Challenge, sharing the honors with fellow Canadian Chris Egi. Gill-Caesar went for 18 points and 11 rebounds in the fifth-place game against Pan Africa.

As for his current 16-4-0 campaign in West Virginia, Teki talks candidly. “Our season is going well just a few losses that we could’ve taken care of. Individually its going well…I’m getting the shots that I want and am playing better defense”. said the former Vaughan Secondary School OFSAA champion.

Scouting Report on Montague Gill Caeser:

Gill-Caesar is a big wing guard that cam finish on the break and knock down open shots with three point range. He rebounds well for a perimeter player and does a good job on the defensive end with his ability to defend both wing positions given his good size. -ESPN

Consensus on College:

Gill-Caeser will likely attempt to reclassify to 2014 and join fellow Canadian Trey Lyles and the likes of 7 footer Karl Towns making up the 2014 Wildcats recruiting class or return back to the Canada. Speculation in September was he seriously contemplated a return home and the opportunity to play with the revamped Athlete Institute Prep program in Orangeville, Ontario. -HoopsHypeCA

 

2016 6’8″ F/C Derek Ogbeide Sweepstakes 1.0

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Hoops Hype Canada has learned Toronto, ON’s Derek Ogbeide, a 6-foot-8, 260-pound big man playing ball @ Pebblebrook HS in Mabelton, Georgia has been offered a full ride from the Kennesaw State Owls.

Georgia based KSU is only 35 km’s from where Ogbeide attends post secondary (Pebblebrook HS). The Owls are in the midst of a disappointing season that finds them 4-13 overall and 1-3 in Atlantic Sun conference play. This following a conference record from last year that saw them finish 0-18 in the A-Sun Conference. To make matters worst the  Owls head coach Lewis Preston who recognized & recruited Ogbeide on a sad note is taking a temporary leave of absence as coach of the Kennesaw State team “due to medical and personal reasons,” the school announced last week.

Preston joined Kennesaw State following 13 years as an assistant NCAA coach, including three as a member of Ed DeChellis’ staff at Penn State. Prior to Penn State he had a pit stop for two years as assistant coach on Billy Donovan’s staff in Florida and before that six seasons under Mike Brey at Notre Dame.

In Preston’s two seasons at Florida he was an integral part of Florida’s recruiting, scouting, game preparation and on-court teaching, the Gators produced a 59-17 (.776) overall record, captured the 2007 Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship and went on to win its second of back-to-back national titles.

2016 Derek Ogbeide attended Monsignor Percy Johnson in Toronto during 2012-13. At MPJ he developed a reputation for being a physical specimen possessing some rare size & strength tough to find in Canada. His interior presence and stand out performances in JR level tournaments including a final four finish at the 2013 Xavier RimRocker earned praises amongst experts. Like many Canadian big men that are hidden gems Ogbeide is is fairly new to organized basketball and that’s what makes this KSU offer interesting. If Ogbeide is ‘raw’ and still learning the fundamental side of things, exploiting an opportunity to work with Lewis Preston is not a bad idea. Preston’s past with NBA talent big men is proof he may be the head owl, but also a wise owl.

Check it: Preston worked with 2007 first-round NBA draft picks Joakim Noah, Al Horford and Corey Brewer and second-round selection Taurean Green while at Florida. All four earned All-American honors while under his tutelage. While at Notre Dame, Preston also worked with Troy Murphy (2001) and Ryan Humphrey (2002) who were first-round NBA picks in back-to-back years, as well as NBA players Matt Carroll and Chris Quinn.

Another Canadian prospect ready to punch his ticket to the next level.  Circle the name…6’8″ 260 lbs Derek Ogbeide is definately D1 bound! Bigger question moving forward is will Canada basketball recognize his talents and send him to Dubai this summer with the U17 Canadian National Team participating in the FIBA World championships? Or at least a try out invitation.

Too much size is better then not enough.

Let’s hope they do.

2013 Mark Walton Wrap, FHC 16-1 Lift Crown

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An Elite Canadian high school basketball tourney took place in Hamilton at Cathedral High School this past weekend. Eight of the provinces best programs battled for supremacy. What we learned at the Mark Walton Invitational followed by a detailed results summary…

Hamilton Loves Hoops

Refreshing to see so many people from the Steel Town community that came out to enjoy the Mark Walton Invitational. Strong support anticipates this tourney annually and majority love to talk basketball.

Gaels Gymnasium

Cathedral Gymnasium. Designed by Mark Walton in the mid 90′s.

A dying breed of a basketball venue in Ontario. You must see it to believe it. Especially at near capacity. Whether your just there as a spectator, photographer, press duties or playing it’s both a privelage and a pleasure to put in work inside the vintage Cathedral gymnasium.

Officiating

Level of officiating in Hamilton compared to the GTA in 2013-14 is night & day. Crew who worked the Mark Walton may not reflect all the referees in the Hamilton region but on opening day (aside from maybe the final minutes of FHC & CC) officials let the boys hoop.  If your guy is going to the charity stripe he FELT contact. No freebies, no whistle happy zebras. They even excused a player who hit a three ball then triggered a couple gun shots in the air.

Mark Walton

The man, the myth, the legendary coach in Canadian HS hoops. Walton’s resume includes both playing and coaching with Cathedral. It’s not easy to win a OFSAA. Let alone 4 (1 as player, 3 as coach). Walton has been the driving force at Cathedral since they moved campuses to Wellington Street back in the mid 90′s. Of Coach Waltons four provincial championships, ALL were undefeated campaigns.

Amazing Feat. 1 OFSAA as player. 3 OFSAA’s as coach. Mark Walton the legend.

University Coaches

3 of the top 5 teams in the GTA and the reigning ‘AAA’ champs from Windsor were present. This talented 8 team tourney brought out a handful of Canadian University coaches.

List included Algonquin Assistant Coach Jim Langis, Brock head coach Charles Kissi , Carelton head coach Dave Smart, Nippising’s head coach Chris Cheng, Toronto’s head coach Chris Cambell, & Windsor’s head coach Chris Oliver.

Cathedral Hospitality

Last year some HHC staff had the privilege to witness St Edward Campion open up their tournament in a similar fashion vs Gonzaga. The scene Friday morning minus a PA announcer was comparable to the 2012 Campion Showdown. From on point gonvenors in their customized Mark Walton Invitational hoodies to the pride in the stands for a 9:30AM tip … ‘first class’ is an understatement. Not only did they engage the student body to fill up the place, tournament organizers scheduled Eastern Commerce for the showcase game. In return they knocked off the #4 ranked team in GTA and did it behind some stingy D in front of Mark Walton and the Gaels faithful.

Windsor Got Talent

Arriving in Steel town one week after losing to St.Mike’s in the Freeds final (injured and depleted) Catholic Central showed serious flashes of promise. They outplayed Cardinal Newman with what CN does best, defense. Then exchanged punches with Father Henry Carr right to the final buzzer. The pride & joy of Windsor, Ontario flexed its muscles and showed that the ‘AAA’ OFSAA champs with no returning starters could also be a contender for the ‘AAAA’ crown if they choose. Coach Cusamano well decide their future in January.

Panthers Prowling

Henry Carr & D’Youville tip off in the Championship game.

Panthers are rolling. Looking like a team thats finally buying in to their coaches philosophy on offence with ball movement. DamIann Prehay game in game out offers a motor 2nd to none. 2016 Splash brothers Montague & Gould can bury you beyond the arc, 2015′s Agunye & Clayton are crucial when both attack and are willing rebounders, throw in X-factor (5th year) Jerome Simpson and DY have all the tools. If the Panthers can click together for four quarters, nail free throws & minimize turnovers, DY have the talent to be provincial champions or at the very least serious contenders.

Champion Crusaders

Champion Crusaders above. Champion hardware below.

Marcus Bonnick & Ty Stewart Nelson may not have the height or athleticism as alumni’s Jalen Poyser & Dillon Brooks did, but both have an intensity that you just can’t teach.

Marcus Bonnick continues to have stretches where he goes BANANAS! In the third quarter alone of the semi finals he had 12 points including 3 splashes from downtown and if he missed any of his 3P FGA’s he was chasing down his own rebounds. Growing up his nick name was M.Dollar. So far this fall with his NBA shooting range Bonnick has been worth more then dollars to FHC, he’s been priceless.

Ty Stewart-Nelson is also an unsung hero for Henry Carr. TSN is as poised and composed of an athlete that you can find in Canadian high school hoops. For example, Carr allowed Catholic Central to go on a 17-4 run late in the fourth quarter. Trailing by 1 after a worthy game winning 3 ball from CC — TSN sitting on 14 points on the game (none in the fourth) –hits a floater with 5 seconds left on the game clock. Absolutely clutch!

Both Bonnick and Stewart-Nelson possess a passion & demonstrate leadership skills coaches drool over. Toss in 2017′s Anthony McNish & Grant Audu on the court with them and the four are a FORCE to be reckoned with.

Tournament  Summary Special by: Larry Moko

For the second consecutive year, Father Henry Carr Crusaders of Etobicoke have captured the overall championship at the Mark Walton Invitational senior boys’ high school basketball tournament held by Hamilton’s Cathedral High School.

Anthony McNish sinks a basket in a tight championship match with d’Youville on Saturday. (Photo: Gerry Graham)

The Crusaders defeated Brampton’s St. Marguerite d’Youville Panthers 50-49 on Saturday (Dec. 7) at the Cathedral gym to take top honours among the eight entries.

Third-place went to last year’s provincial high school Triple A gold-medal winners, Windsor’s Catholic Central Comets, who got past the host Cathedral Gaels, 71-67. The consolation title went to Toronto’s Eastern Commerce Saints. They edged Cardinal Newman Cardinals, 63-59. Oakville’s Holy Trinity Titans downed St. Thomas More Knights, 56-49, to take seventh spot.

“It’s very tough to win this tournament,” said Carr coach Paul Melnik. “These are probably eight of the top teams in the province. To come back this year, with half my team gone, and win again …. We’re really happy. We just want to work hard. The young guys are stepping up.”

Overall this season, the Crusaders are 16-1.

Carr led 7-6, 23-16 and 34-30 at the end of the quarters. Addy Ogunye’s three-point basket at the buzzer for the Panthers completed the scoring.

Guard Marcus Bonnick of the Crusaders was selected the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. He netted 21 points in the finale and teammate Anthony McNish added eight. For the Panthers, Ogunye and DamiAnn Prehay were the leading scorers with 15 and 13 points, respectively.

The Father Henry Carr Crusaders (R to L: Marcus Bonnick, Ty Stewart Nelson, Brendon Chevannes) are presented with their trophy. (Photo: Gerry Graham)

Melnik praised the efforts of Bonnick: “He worked so hard in the off season to improve his conditioning and skill level. And with the improvement in both, his confidence has gone through the roof. He’s earned a leadership role. So when the game is on the line, we’re going to put the ball in his hands.”

Mark Walton, whom the tournament is named after, coached Cathedral squads to three Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations boys’ championships before stepping down as head coach in 1998. As a player, he also won a provincial title with the Gaels. Those accomplishments were brought up by Melnik during the awards ceremony.

“Mark Walton was an elite player and coach,” Melnik said. “I coached against him way back when. He’s not my mentor, but he’s like my mentor.”

Ogunye was selected a first team all-star along with Prehay. Other all-stars were Ty Stewart-Nelson and Anthony McNish of the Crusaders along with Isaiah Familia of Catholic Central. The second-team all-star choices were: Daniel Dzierzawski of Cathedral, Ignas Brazdeikis of Holy Trinity, Narcisse Ambanza of Eastern Commerce, Nyong James of the Catholic Central, and David McCulloch of Cardinal Newman.

SATURDAY RESULTS

Seventh-place game: Holy Trinity 56 (Shamiel Stevenson 22, Ignas Brazdeikis 17) St. Thomas More 49 (Joel Clarke 11, Osayi Ignivan 11)

Consolation championship: Eastern Commerce 63 (Trayvon Ross 14, Narcisse Ambanza 16) Cardinal Newman 59 (Josh Nardini 18, David McCulloch 11, Tyler Brown 10)

Third-place game: Catholic Central 71 (Isaiah Familia 21, Eriq Jenkins 15, Nyong James 14) Cathedral 67 (Daniel Dzierzawski 30, Kareem Kollins 13, Shemar Mensah 11).

Overall championship: Father Henry Carr 50, St. Marguerite d’Youville 49.

Wednesday the staff at Hoops Hype Canada in attendance at the 2013 Mark Walton Invitational take a in depth look at the stand out performers from the two day tourney. Wide range of talent from 2014′s to 2017′s whose performances did not go unnoticed and will be recognized. Stay tuned…

Athlete Institute HS Makes Drive Down 410

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Athlete Institute HS have scheduled a trio of tilts versus three highly touted Greater Toronto Area High Schools. Games will be played at the Powerade Ceneer in Brampton, Ontario. Tip off will take place at 4pm EST just hours prior to regularly scheduled Brampton A’s NBL home games.

Friday, November 15th, 2013

Sir Allan MacNab vs Athlete Institute HS 4:00PM

Mississauga Power vs Brampton A’s 7:00PM

Monday November 18th, 2013

Father Henry Carr Crusaders vs Athlete Institute HS @ 4PM

London Lightning vs Brampton A’s @ 7PM

Monday November 25th, 2013 

St.Marguerette D’Youville Panthers vs Athlete Institute HS @ 4PM

Windsor Express vs Brampton A’s @ 7 PM

 

 

PHASE 1 Director Wayne Dawkins Speaks

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In early September Kern Carter on behalf of Hoops Hype Canada wrote a exclusive on Wayne Dawkins the Canadian basketball pioneer. On the cusp of the PHASE 1 program`s inaguaral season on the American Prep School scene, Wayne Dawkins Director of PHASE 1 Academy now based in Phoenix Arizona spoke one-on-one with Hoops Hype Canada correspondents via telephone.

Q. First and foremost PHASE 1 Academy. How did the program earn some reported first class facilities and become rumored to have such strong community support in the Phoenix area?

A. Hard to make a long story short but the work being done by PHASE 1 in Canada was recognized by people here in Phoenix and the offer to come here was presented to me. After much prayer and speaking to my wife we decided to explore it. Once we were here it was clear from the connections we made that God wanted us to stay. The rest is the hard work, diligence and perseverance that goes into building anything.

PHASE 1 Academy Player pool.

PHASE 1 Academy Player pool.

Q. Facilities are they first class as reported?

A. Yes. Our school is small and did not have the facilities to fully accommodate our program, so we were blessed to form a partnership with the Ray and Joan Kroc Salvation Army in South Phoenix. It is a world class facility with 3 NBA courts, fitness center, indoor track, etc. The partnership also gives our athletes an opportunity to give back to the community through the volunteering we do for their many youth programs.

Q. How is PHASE 1 establishing a presence in the community and already garnering strong support from the Arizona community?

A. Our presence has grown because we entered the community with a mission to give back through volunteering and involvement with our local church Faith Christian Center. We have also established a reputation for running a discipline program that focuses on education, character and player development.

Q. Canadians are reportedly involved with the support staff surrounding the players day to day? Any names in the fold that have been pivotal preparing Phase 1 for the American prep level?

A. Several Canadians both here and in Canada are involved; however, this is not a one man or all Canadian effort! My wife, Kim Dawkins get’s the most credit because she is the true organizational and creative talent behind PHASE 1 and our great start. Amanda Davidson is one of my former Alumni and lends her many talents to the program including, her masters in education which gives us the strong in house academic support.  Her 10 years of training with PHASE 1 means we have someone who is well equipped to support the player development as well. After contemplating several other offers I was able to convince my long time friend Ro Russell, that his experience both good and bad was vital to building a great program on a consulting level then most recently as a head coach of our high school national team. Clive Daniel is my right hand with overall operations of the Academy and maintaining the academy mission. The Canadians at home are our athletes parents and families that trust us to do right by their children and provide as much hands on support and encouragement for PHASE 1 Academy as possible.

Super Trooper: Wife Kim Dawkins and Wayne photogrphed on the Air Canada court.

Wayne and wife Kim Dawkins photographed on home court of the Toronto Raptors, Air Canada Center. Former home of the All Canada Classic.

Q We must ask, what calibre of education does PHASE 1 Academy offer aspiring international ballers?

A. We chose Faith Christian School as our educational partner for the high academic standard and the fact they are fully state and NCAA accredited. As of last week our school progress report indicated that our team GPA is a 3.2. We have an in house Academic Director and several student tutors through a partnership with Arizona State U. and Grand Canyon U; also I have a Bachelors Degree in Secondary education with a concentration in Sociology. I have been a teacher for 17 years and would not compromise education for our athletes when I know how valuable it has been to me, and the many students I have taught.

Q. Caliber of competition? Word is Findlay and Oak Hill are on your schedule already and a possible Canadian tour, any truth to that?

A. All true and a credit to Coach Ro Russell because it is his tremendous relationship with these programs that allowed us to be able to put together such a great schedule in a short time span. The Canadian tour is important for our athletes to get an opportunity to play in front of family and friends while showcasing the development of these athletes.

Kim Dawkins and Amanda Davidson measure Senaglese 2014 6`11 C Boubacar Toure`s wing span.

Kim and Amanda measure Senaglese 2014 6`11 C Boubacar Toure`s wing span.

Q. X’s and O’s. What kind of sysytems, culture will student athletes 

A. I respect a Head Coaches need to control his team because I have been there myself. Our head coach will control the games however as a staff, collectively we are implementing the overall academy coaching system.  Our focus is to create a culture to better integrate our younger players that may play up for bigger games. 

Q. Player pool. Strong Canadian contingent….Especially from the Canadian hotbed city of Brampton, ON. Any coincidence of that? 

A. Brampton is loaded with talent and that can’t be denied. We have a great mix of players from other parts of the G.T.A. as well. For year one we focused on athletes where we have a close relationship with their families. It is a major decision to send your child all the way to Phoenix so screening parents and child was very important. Our athletes come from all over the world, Germany, Belgium, Argentina, Senegal, Nigeria and Australia so we really needed to make sure we chose Canadian athletes of good character that can deal with people from different cultures and adjust to a new environment. We also looked closely at the positions that had to be filled and building for the future.

PHASE 1 Academy located in Phoenix, AZ

Q. Canadian basketball. You are a basketball mogul in the country. How do you feel about the current state. Genuine growth or still hype?

A. I am happy for the growth of Canadian basketball and excited for the future. I don’t feel we are utilising our best talent in positions of leadership and that has caused a talent drain at every level. Right now America has firmly taken over the development of our top talent at and early age and we do not have the coaches, facilities, level of competition or corporate support to pull it back anytime soon. I am here because America recognized my value to the greater basketball community. I would have preferred to stay home to continue to help build Canadian basketball but that opportunity was not going to come. Hopefully many others who are taking their talent to the U.S. will one day have a more opportunities to impact Canadian basketball at the higher levels.

Q. Any relationship with Steve Nash and or the brass from Canada Basketball have they ever reached out to you or PHASE 1?

A. I have a past relationship but I have never heard from him.

Q. All Canada Classic. Gone but not forgotten. It seems though media outlets are quick to forget about its existence? At all frustrating for you?

A. To work hard for 12 straight years; to build and maintain a major event like the All Canada Classic with such a great history and tradition; it is disappointing to feel the basketball community does not value it enough to help keep it going. I am grateful to God for the opportunity to help so many of Canada’s best player celebrate their high school career on a national stage.

Q. NPSAA received mixed feedback from programs, parents and players both positive and negative. Your thoughts looking back on it what do you think was it’s demise? Can NPSAA co exist in Canada or even America one day?

A. Unfortunately when you’re a pioneer and trying to build anything with limited resources it is difficult. The fact that several leagues that are following an almost identical format and have sprung up, is a reflection that it was something people felt is needed for Canada. My focus for PHASE 1 is building PHASE 1 Academy and making sure we do right by everyone involved. The NPSAA, like the All Canada Classic and the many other of PHASE 1’s programs I will leave it up God to decide if they are gone for good or maybe rebirthed here in America.

Q. Your thoughts on AAU it’s been a long time since you have been affiliated with an AAU program. Are you against it or support players desire to take their talents on the circuit?

A. AAU in theory is great and I am again grateful to have been a part of it in the late 90’s when it was relatively unknown in Canada. The challenge now is educating people on how to use the AAU experience to the best interest of the athletes involved. 

Q. Minus social media and all the virtual hoopla, how were you recruited back in your day? Also how do you feel as program director of your players & personnel using social media?

A. I was recruited by a combination of 1. good old-fashioned taping games, contacting schools and sending out the footage and 2. being written about in the newspapers for being one of the top basketball players in the city. Back then print media exposure was very crucial to validating our level of talent. I am also very grateful to my high school coaches at York Memorial C.I. Richard Ward and Mike Katz who were the driving force behind my recruitment.

 I personally feel young athletes need to be better educated on their use of social media. It is great for creating instant hype or a buzz but often times athletes are sharing emotional moments that need to be thought out or discussed before being posted. This has proven to be very detrimental to their own reputation and the programs they represent. We work continuously with our athletes to teach them how to use social media responsibly.

Thank you Wayne good luck with your latest basketball journey in Phoenix Arizona, Hoops Hype Canada wishes you all the best and looks forward to tracking the development of both our Canadians donning the PHASE 1 jersey and the entire roster this fall and winter season.

Dawkins Demonstrates Dedication

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Special by Kern Carter

Teacher. Motivator. Mentor. Trainer. Coach. Pioneer…

These are just some of the many descriptive titles for community activist and basketball enthusiast Wayne Dawkins.  His contribution to a number of hoops programs and charities throughout the greater Toronto area (GTA), alongside his love for coaching basketball to youth has awarded him with a great place of leadership in the Canadian basketball community.

TEACHER.

Wayne Dawkins demonstrates drills with Senior Mens National Team member Orlando Magic PF/C Andrew Nicholson.

Having spent more than 10 years as a high school educator for the Toronto district school board (TDSB), Dawkins’ teaching approach surpassed standard expectations for motivating students to succeed.  His ambitious efforts of encouraging youth to realize their potential, has assisted hundreds of student-athletes in earning scholarships. He states, “My numerous years as a teacher and coach have allowed me to grow immensely in my ability to manage and motivate young athletes.”

MOTIVATOR & MENTOR.

Dawkins’ passion for coaching, leading, and teaching youth life skills extended far beyond the classroom.  Whether students obtained an NCAA scholarship or acceptance into a Canadian post-secondary institution, Dawkins’ goal is to elevate youth progress athletically, socially, and academically.

No stranger to being a student-athlete himself, Dawkins had received numerous accolades prior to his college career, which included two Metro All-Star team selections, and a gold medal as captain of the Ontario Provincial team. Dawkins then pursued a degree in Secondary Education while attended Eastern Michigan University (EMU) on a full four-year basketball scholarship. He later transferred to American International College (AIC) where he played as the starting point-guard, and completed his degree in ‘95.

Dawkins, who is of Jamaican-Canadian descent, has lived in many places, which include Jamaica, various Canadian provinces and the United States of America; he currently resides in Scarborough, Ontario with his wife, Kim, and their daughter Toni. Also a devout Christian, Dawkins applies his Christian teachings and values to all areas of his life, no matter what the cause, whether it is family, his profession, or helping others.

TRAINER & COACH.

Throughout his vast career, Dawkins has spearheaded and co-founded several basketball-focused projects in the community that has developed basketball training centres, National College Exposure Camps, and many other initiatives. He has also pioneered a series of coaching clinics, Canadian AAU travel teams, tournaments, and house leagues that were facilitated within local inner-city community centres.

Dawkins has made it his mission to inspire and motivate youth through the medium of basketball. Influencing youth by encouraging confidence-building and achieving success external to the game of hoops had reshaped the image of a student “athlete”. Mentoring and coaching youth showed progression within the basketball community, this in turn, continued to expand Dawkins’ own brand.

“I have a deeply rooted passion for coaching and working with youth in varying capacities. Equally important is my enthusiasm for elevating the game of basketball.”

PIONEER.

In 2000, Dawkins founded and established PHASE 1 Basketball, an organization committed to athlete development.  His initiative extends beyond basketball, and the classroom setting, with programs being based around personal development, community engagement and education. PHASE 1 prepares youth on the basketball court, but most importantly for their futures by guiding and sending hundreds of athletes to school to pursue post-secondary studies.

All Canada Classic  one of the greatest Canadian amateur basketball events in Canada.

By growing different basketball programs across the GTA, Dawkins’ has been more than a coach, but a mentor to hundreds of student-athletes, many of whom have earned success in their collegiate careers (i.e Denham Brown [UCONN] and Jevohn Shepherd [Michigan]). Dawkins’ knows the importance of finding great mentors:

“I have been blessed with the opportunity to work alongside, and be mentored by some of North America’s greatest coaches including Mike Katz, U. Of Toronto, Roy Rana, Eastern Commmerce C.I., Ben Braun, U. California, Gary Waters, Cleveland State U. and many more. Each of these talented and successful coaches has shaped my coaching ability.”

A glimps at the PHASE 1 player pool from Phoenix, Arizona.

A glimpse at the PHASE 1 player pool from Phoenix, Arizona.

PHASE 1 Basketball includes several other basketball programs that are highly recognized by the basketball community. Some initiatives include the All Canada Classic (2000), a national high-school all-star game played at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, and the All Canada Prospect Camp (2000). PHASE 1 also has the Lady Elite 1’s, the Elite Semi-Pro team, the Rising Star Showcase,and so much more.

Dawkins’ has transferred his passion for coaching and inspiring youth by shaping PHASE 1 basketball to be more than a basketball academy, but a project focussed on enhancing the development of successful young citizens.  His tenacity, drive, determination and faith have helped him root his vision to help others within the basketball community. Dawkins’ vision is still growing, and he is continuously developing projects to further enhance what the PHASE 1 basketball brand represents.

Dawkins is formerly the head coach of the men’s basketball team at Seneca College, where he was awarded the “2010 OCAA Coach of the Year” award.

2015 Nevell Provo Headlines Athletes Institute Backcourt

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In 2011, when 2015 PG 6’0 Nevell Provo joined some elite class of Canadian HS players taking their talents to West Virginia, Nova Scotia basketball was officially back on the map. 2 years later Provo is returning to his native land and will be a focal point of a newly assembled prep program north of the border, Athlete’s Institute in Orangeville, Ontario.

Class of 2015 6’0″ G Nevell Provo of Preston, Nova Scotia.

“Basically I sat down with my family and weighed my options… we decided this was the best move for me. Huntington is a great program with lots of exposure, competitiveness in practice, and all the perks of a high profile prep school. However, Orangeville was better for me because Im able to gain that in-game experience, and become a leader of a team; something I need to take my game to the next level”

Provo pictured in 2012 on a star studded CIA bounce squad. This summer he played with the 16U squad.

Provo refuses to view his return to the native land as any step backwards.

“Doing all this I don’t lose much of the perks that came with Huntington other than the high profile name. Orangeville, has a great academic background, great facility, and we play a pretty big schedule. On top of all this im closer to my family, so it’s a great situation.”

When Coach Fulford was reached for comment he explained his story behind the transfer,

“He has been a pleasure to have in Huntington. Nevell is a great kid and I wish him nothing but the best. My job as a coach is to get guys prepared for the next level. Not only on the court, but off. It’s also to be honest with them…. Nevell had been here 2 years and had not really seen minutes. With another 5 star PG coming in this year, I made sure Nevell knew where he stood. He was obviously welcomed back to compete, but was honest with him to try and find an opportunity where he could see more game time.”

As for the Athlete Institute, the prep program will have strong ties to the powerhouse Canadian AAU program CIA Bounce. Much like when Nevell joined Huntington Prep in 2011. At the time Provo became the 6th Canadian on H Preps roster. All CIA Bounce products and highly touted Canadian prospects such as Negus Webster-Chan (Hawaii), Andrew Wiggins (Kansas ), Stefan Jankovic (Missouri), Xavier Rathan-Mayes (Florida State), and Tanveer Bhullar (New Mexico St) who were in the fold.

Nevell Provo with former team Huntington Prep in 2012-13. Roster included fellow Canadians Andrew Wiggins and Xavier Mayes

As Provo joins Athlete’s Institute he leaves behind only 2015 6’5″ SF Montaque Gill Caeser. Who some say was also on the fence for a possible return to Canada. Despite speculation Fulford confirmed Gill-Caeser will return and reiterated he will always be a supporter of his former pupil Provo.

“Hopefully, the project they have started up there will work out for them. I am happy for Nevell and will continue to support him.”

As for Nevell’s own thoughts of his tenure in West Virginia, the proud point guard from Preston, Nova Scotia recollected

“I had a great experience at Huntington, I became not only a better basketball player but a better man. I learned what it was like to be away from family and friends, how to sacrifice, and just WORK hard.”

Provo also returned back some love to his former coach,

“Coach Rob is a good coach, he did a good job keeping guys together and building a family. He always got us motivated to work and pull our way through tough games. He’s also very hard working so we always had great scouting reports on other teams”.

 

Huntington Prep in 2011 featured six Canadians. Wiggins, Webster-Chan, Bhullar, Jankovic, Mayes and Provo.

When highlighting Huntington Prep one of the programs biggest assets is the strength and conditioning program led by Coach Chris Lane. Provo approved,

“Coach Chris is an absolute MONSTER. You can look at him and see. He really helped with the strength and conditioning. That’s something that’s really big to me, because im a bit undersized so i need to be stronger, quicker, and have more endurance than other guards. He helped us get that, giving us the proper workouts and meal plans to eat properly. “

Moving forward Provo will resume playing for his AAU bench boss coach Larry Blunt of the Athlete’s Institute. Provo shared his thoughts on his productive summer and his experience traveling with CIA Bounce’s 16U squad.

“We had a great summer, accomplished some big things. Finished top 4 in Peach Jam, and some finals in a few other big tournaments. Played well throughout the summer, Live in AC and the Caribana classic I feel I had my best showings.”

Scrappy point guard who will look to lead his team, and do whatever it takes to win is what you get in Nevell Provo. On the court expect lots of energy, leadership, making players around him better, hard nose defense, high IQ and a guard that can get in the lane, find teammates and knock down shots. Off the court is an area however where Provo is proud to admit he really tries hard to shine in.

“Life is bigger than ball. One day the ball has to stop bouncing. I feel a lot of basketball players get the mentality where they’re on top of the world and treat others like they’re below them. I’m a child of god, always trying to help others. A 4.0 student, always keep my grades first. Always happy, and smiling and trying to brighten someones day.” Provo’s comments cement his status as part of a dying breed, both a Canadian baller & scholar.

Shades of a well balanced, hardworking, young man trying to make the most out of life while enjoying every moment. Nevell returns home with interest from Indiana, Ohio, New Mexico St, San Diego St, Virginia Tech, St. Bonaventure, Northern Kentucky and Western Kentucky.

Marshall & Iowa offers are just scratching the surface for Provo offers.

Marshall & Iowa offers have just scratched the surface scholarship offers.

He confirmed outstanding offers from two schools already, “Most love from Iowa and Marshall, offers from both.” As for a timetable for his decision,”No date in mind yet, hopefully sometime in the fall of my senior year”

Provo left us entering the fall with one final thought. His satisfaction with his current AAU program CIA Bounce.

“It’s been a great journey with the program, I’ve been with them for 2 years now. The family they’ve built is unbreakable, I’ve met some brothers from this program. Everyone knows the level of basketball, we bring a team of Canadians and compete with the Americans every year.”

Yes they do, and now starting this fall on a prep school level, his brothers and him will continue the journey year round. Final rosters and schedules are yet to be announced for the Orangeville program but rest assured Nevell Provo will be a high level ball handler with a great deal of experience headlining the back court for Athlete’s Institute.

2015 Kamar McKnight Stock Rising

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One of the most productive live periods by a Canadian this past July was from 2015 6’3″ CG Kamar McKnight.

“My AAU experience this summer was great even though I was only available for the July live period I’m really looking forward to next AAU season on the EYBL circuit and playing against the best night in and night out” McKnight told Hoops Hype Canada (HHC) .

Kamar McKnight

Class of 2015 6’3″ Kamar McKnight pictured playing for Grassroots Canada this summer.

The 6-foot-3 guard is a flat out shooter – Period. He has a knack for filling it up from deep. He knocked six three-pointers throughout a thrashing of Team Manimal that saw him hit shots from every angle of the floor. While on AAU duty this summer the south paw parlayed his production into serious considerations from both mid & high major college programs.

“My list right now is Colorado, Arizona, UCLA, UCONN, Oregon St and Fresno St. The school showing the most love right now would be Colorado. Coach Rohn is recruiting me hard at the moment.” McKnight shared.

As for his time table for a decision McKnight added “Would be before the 14-15 season my senior year of high school.”

A lefty with an elite competitive passion to develop and improve when asked what has been the difference the Toronto, ON native responded,

“Well I’ve been making plays off the dribble and really worked hard at improving my jump shot this past off-season, but a lot of my focus lately has been guarding the best player of the opposing team, also going forward I’m always looking to improve my body and make sure i’m able to compete for longer periods of time during games.”

McKnight a member of St.Patrick’s last winter will make the in state switch to St.Benedict’s this fall.

“I just felt over the past couple of years St.Benedict’s has shown they are the #1 team in NJ and dominant on the national schedule which I wanted to be a part of” Kamar disclosed about the transfer.

McKnight at St.Benedicts will replace a void left by fellow Canadian Tyler Ennis who graduated and will attend Syracuse.

Coach Mark Taylor will be getting a combo guard of great size that could create his own shot, create mismatches, put teammates in a great position to score, and a great team leader.

Off the court the scouting reports show McKnight as a kid who brings great vibes to his teams and gets the best out of all his teammates, and most importantly gets the job done in the classroom.

As a member of Grassroots Canada Kamar now when home in Toronto takes advantage of developing his talent at Fallstaff Community Center. A historical basketball facility in Canada that has took large part in developing a long list of Canadian talents including Brady Heslip & Nik Stauskus, even the Canadian Texas University trio Tristan Thompson, Cory Joesph and Myck Kabongo.

When asked about his experience under the roof at Fallstaff McKnight said,

“Fallstaff, Fallstaff…the best gym to hoop in and a great atmosphere, you have to bring your A game to workout. Especially with the alumni’s in the building…it’s real competitive because if you lose you’re not seeing the court for a while, so it really brings out the best of your game.”

Canada has produced some quality players over the years. When zeroing in on the class of 2015 a list that includes Chris Egi, Kamar McKnight is as blue chip of a prospect as you’ll find.