Article 309: John looking to bust out

May 31, 2012

For fans who attend current Cal Bears basketball home games in Harmon Gym, they will recognize Mike Montgomery who has been a Bay Area mainstay on the coaching sidelines that span from his days at Maples Pavilion in Palo Alto to Oracle Arena in Oakland to his current stay in Berkeley. The main assistant coach for the Bears is a veteran in the college coaching ranks, Jay John who has over 30 years of college coaching including six years as head coach at Oregon State. John was also an accomplished basketball and football player at Northern Arizona.

These characteristics have been passed on to his son, Monte Vista sophomore Trevor John. The younger John was a key player in the rotation on the hardwood as he averaged six points, five rebounds, and two assists per game in the Mustangs 20-9 season. At 6-foot-3 and 180 pounds, John is also a rising baseball prospect on the pitching mound as his Mustangs are in the midst of a NCS title run with a 15-10 record.

John's basketball strength is his perimeter shooting and unselfishness in helping make his teammates better. He compares his game to former BYU Cougar Jimmer Fredette because of the similar size and the similar offensive arsenal of playmaking off of the dribble, getting teammates involved, and making perimeter shots.

Monte Vista returns six players next season in addition to having a new coach. John will be a starter who will be counted on to increase production on a team that will be guard oriented in its approach.

During the summer, John will play for his Oakland Soldiers 16 club. His best basketball move is a counter off of a jumper, rip through to the right, go into the middle of the lane, and shoot a floater. Conversely, he plans on working on his ball handling and shooting footwork because he feels that there is room for improvement and wants to increase the number of counter moves in his offensive arsenal.

Oakland Soldiers Coach Nick Enzweiler says, "Trevor is an excellent shooter with good range. He plays hard on every possession. He is a very tough competitor that doesn't like to lose. Also, he is very coachable, which is only natural because he is a coach's son."

John's father coaches major college basketball in the Pac-12 conference. The main advice that the Mustang takes from his father about his basketball game is to be able to shoot, to handle the ball, and to defend your opponent. John also can get athletic advice from his older brother, Tyler John, who walked on as a safety for the Oregon State Beaver football team.

"I think right now he is probably a low D1 prospect," says Enzweiler. "If he can improve his ball handling skills, his ability to put the ball on the floor and score around the basket and his lateral quickness so he can become a better on ball defender, then his stock will rise because good teams always need great shooters."

On the baseball diamond, John is a right-handed pitcher who tops out at 86 mph on the radar. He is a power pitcher who can be crafty when needed. His best pitch is his two seam fastball.

Last fall, he attended a Cal baseball camp where he showcased himself well. During the summer, he also plays for his Danville Hoots club that is considered one of the better amateur baseball teams in the country. The team's reputation in amateur baseball can be compared to the reputation of his Oakland Soldiers squad in basketball.

The success of that camp and his potential has garnered interest from Cal and UC Santa Barbara for baseball. On the basketball side, he has gotten an inquiry from Liberty in Virginia. John would like to play both sports in college as he carries a 3.67 GPA and is open to any geographic location.

Playing for the Oakland Soldiers during this summer and attending baseball camps will help John get more exposure in both sports. Watch for this bucking Mustang to bust out in both sports in Danville for the next two years. And then watch for John on the college level in the fall of 2014.

Article 308: Dawkins carries legacy

May 30, 2012

For those who follow Duke Basketball, the watershed moment for the Mike Krzyzewski era was 1983 when left-handed point guard Johnny Dawkins out of the now defunct Mackin High School in Washington, D.C. signed with the Blue Devils in one of the better all time men's basketball recruiting classes. As a result, the 80s saw Dawkins lead his senior Duke team to an NCAA finalist performance in 1986. Going into the 90s, Dawkins finished a nine-year career in the NBA that included stints with the Spurs, 76ers, and Pistons. He then went into coaching as an assistant at his alma mater into the two-thousands before becoming head coach at Stanford in 2008.

However, the twenty-tens (10s) may see hardcourt dominance by his son, Aubrey Dawkins. At 6-foot-4 and 175 pounds, Dawkins plays point guard in the same manner that his father did. At the recent City Championships in San Francisco, he displayed his ability as a finesse player who is fundamentally sound with his ball-handling, passing, and shooting form. Despite being right handed, Dawkins dribbles well with his off hand and is able to shoot mid-range jumpers with his left hand as well.

Dawkins was born and raised in the Research Triangle area in North Carolina before making the move out to Palo Alto in 2008 due to his father's coaching move to Stanford. Dawkins prepped at St. Francis when he first came to the Bay Area but will finish up with Palo Alto High.

Growing up in Tobacco Road in the middle of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) where basketball is king, Dawkins says about the basketball atmosphere, "It was loud and exciting to be at the Duke games, especially the North Carolina ones. Since my father was on the coaching staff, we had seats behind the bench. You feel like you are on the court. You sweat like the players with the intensity."

After making the move to Silicon Valley, Dawkins has been in the middle of the Pac-12. He states his opinion of Pac-12 basketball after following his father's Stanford program. "Maples Pavilion does not have the same feel yet as Cameron, but the culture and league are still great. The student population has not yet fully embraced the basketball program like its football program."

With his father having played for Krzyzewski and then later as a part of Krzyzewski's coaching staff, the younger Dawkins has had a unique position of knowing the all-time Division I basketball wins leader. He says, "Coach K is like family. He interacted with my siblings and myself and was very nurturing. That is something that I see my father trying to replicate at Stanford." About the possibility of playing for Krzyzewski," It would be awesome. It would be déjà vu for Coach K since I have some playing similarities as my father."

When comparing Dawkins' performance last summer with this past month's City Championships event at City College of San Francisco, Dawkins displayed leadership on his team, size and strength improvements, and more aggressiveness in his overall game. The point guard position has always been considered the natural leader position for basketball because the ball goes through that position for critical decision making. Dawkins has the potential to be such an impact recruit in the 2013 class.

When asked if he could a recruit like his father who was part of a program changing recruiting class, Dawkins says, "I believe that I can make an impact wherever I go. I do not think that I have met my potential on the basketball court." Dawkins is the youngest of four in the family as his older brother goes to St. Johns while his two older sisters are both at Duke.

Being a versatile guard, Dawkins has received interest from Denver, Florida Atlantic, Portland State, and UC Davis. He believes that his basketball skills can be best utilized in a half court set or run and gun team.

This summer, Dawkins will be working on his ball-handling, shooting, and endurance with his Bay Area Hoosiers club. Watch for Dawkins to continue his break out in Palo Alto this upcoming season. Expect him to be part of an impactful recruiting class in 2013 and track how this younger Dawkins dominates the 10s.

Article 307: Classic Sunday report

May 28, 2012

Day 2 of the Bay Area Memorial Day Classic in Martinez saw a transition to bracket play when the real tournament begins and win or go home becomes the mantra. Several former NBA players were in attendance watching their sons play including Stanford head coach Johnnie Dawkins, Reggie Theus and Bobby Jackson. Here is a look at some of the top players from Sunday's action:

John Fenton 6-foot-8 Post Central Catholic (2013) Organized Chaos 17U: Fenton is a traditional back to the basket post player. He runs the floor well and uses his frame in the post. He has long arms as he blocked a few shots. Fenton has a 4.31 weighted GPA and has an offer from Holy Cross in addition to inquiries from Boise State, Cal Poly SLO, UC Davis, UC Santa Barbara, and Yale.

Jonathan Boddie 6-foot-5 F Central Catholic (2014) Oakland Rebels Red: Central Catholic looks to have a formidable frontcourt next season with Boddie who is very athletic for an interior player to go along with Fenton. The sophomore made a few twisting layups and was active on defense in both rebounding and shot blocking. With defenses focusing on his teammate Fenton, Boddie should clean up on offensive rebounds and open looks.

Jeremy Dennis 6-foot-3 Wing St. Mary's Berkeley (2013) Bay Area Warriors 17: Dennis is versatile and athletic while still playing aggressive. He has enough ball handling to be a guard. He has a 3.4 GPA as he has interest from Cal Poly SLO, Cornell, St. Mary's, UC Irvine, and UC Riverside.

Zerrion Payton 6-foot-2 PG Modesto Christian (2013) Lunardi's: In an interesting matchup, Payton played against his Modesto Christian teammates' Modesto Basketball Club. He was a more physical player and made better passes than his high school teammates. He has a fairly ideal point guard body and his skills are slowly complementing his size to increase his recruiting stock.

Jacqui Biggins 6-foot-1 PG Serra (2013) Bay Area Warriors 17: A sturdy point guard who has a nice spin move, Biggins' lateral movement and size makes him a solid perimeter defender. He converted on a few three point attempts to keep defenses honest.

Matt Canalin 5-foot-7 PG Encinal (2015) Lakeshow 15 Black: Canalin started as an undersized freshman this past season and averaged 6 points per game. He is a pure point guard with good dribble drive. His size and numbers should grow as his high school years progress.

Joey Goodreault 6-foot-3 Wing Miramonte (2014) Oakland Rebels Red: The Miramonte wing hit a few three point shots, has a good frame to rebound, plays fundamental and can give steady production on both ends.

Kameron Johnson 6-foot-0 SG Granada (2015) Lakeshow 15 Black: Johnson is physical for his age. His offensive moves and techniques are advanced as well. Johnson was a starter as a freshman.

Lamond Murray Jr. 6-foot-6 F Bishop Montgomery (2013) Double Pump 2013 Elite: If the name sounds familiar, its because Murray is the son of Lamond Murray Sr., the former Cal Bear, who was in attendance. Jr. is a good leaper who attacks the basket and can finish well. He also hit a few perimeter shots with good form.

Daniel Solis 5-foot-10 PG Concord (2014) Lakeshow 16 Black: Solis sees the floor well and has good court vision. He was an all-league selection as a starter this past season.

Jalen Coates 5-foot-6 PG Burbank (2014) PHPS Elite: The current, lone 2014 prospect on the PHPS Elite team, Coates is a shifty and quick point guard. He is pass first and uses his ability to drive to create opportunities for teammates.

Buster Souza 6-foot-7 C Acalanes (2014) Lakeshow 16 Black: Souza plays strong and rebounds well. His post moves are refined for his grade.

Frankie Ferrari 5-foot-10 PG Burlingame (2014) Lunardi's: With a Steve Nash like game, the Burlingame point can casually pull up for an extended three or quickly step back for his jump shot. Defenses should crowd him and force him to pass off. He is crafty in setting up the offense.

Raymond Bowles 6-foot-4 SG Modesto Christian (2013) Lakeshow 17 Black: Bowles is a versatile scorer who should be the featured piece for his loaded high school team. His defense has improved with his length. He has an offer from UC Irvine and is being inquired by many programs in the Big West and WCC.

Leandro Amador 6-foot-6 C Modesto Christian (2015) Modesto Basketball Club: Long and athletic, Bowles runs the floor well and has some nice aggressive post moves. He struggled finishing on the break a few times but has the makings of a legit college prospect.

Jordan Roberson 6-foot-3 SG Cordova (2015) Sacramento Renegades: Roberson averaged close to 9 points as a freshman. But his strength is his perimeter shooting as he has a pure perimeter shot as he hits several three pointers in a span of minutes. He is very accurate if left unguarded.

Kendrick Jackson 6-foot-2 Wing Granite Bay (2015) Spirit Got Game Elite: The son of former Sacramento King Bobby Jackson plays deliberate and at his pace as he does not allow the defense to rush him. He has a nice pull up game including a key jumper in an overtime elimination game with the Bay Area Hoosiers. Jackson has the makings of a clutch player with these early indicators of his maturity and physical stature.

EJ Floreal 6-foot-4 Wing Palo Alto (2013) Lakeshow 17 Black: Floreal recently received his first basketball offer from CSU Bakersfield. His athleticism and quickness on the hardwood also translates onto the track field as he is a top 100m, 200m, and 4x100 relay sprinter in the state. His first love is basketball but he will also have several track and field offers as well to consider.

Keith and Keilan Benjamin 5-foot-10 G El Cerrito (2014) Lunardi's: These twins are skilled and play savvy. They have quickness, attack the basket well, and make good passes. With a loaded team at El Cerrito, the question is if they will get enough minutes to showcase their skill set.

Jonny Crosthwaite 6-foot-4 Wing Northgate (2012) Lakeshow Seniors: Crosthwaite has solid ball handling and is consistent from the perimeter. He is a versatile defender. He has an offer Division III Chatman in Southern California.

Cameron Oliver 6-foot-5 F Grant Union (2014) Spirit Got Game Elite: With an agile but strong body, Oliver displayed some nice post moves. He is an active jumper as he hit the boards hard. He was fouled frequently and displayed a nice free throw touch.

Mitchell Love 6-foot-3 G Burbank (2013) Sacramento Renegades: Love is headed for prep school in Las Vegas. He is a big guard who can handle pressure and has a good jump shot. He hit the game winner from the perimeter in the bracket elimination game.

Israel Hakim 6-foot-2 SG Palo Alto (2012) Lakeshow Seniors: CSU Monterey Bay and CSU Stanislaus are in contact with Hakim who rebounds well for a guard. He also uses his size and strength to post up smaller guards.

Antoine Porter 5-foot-9 PG Mission (2013) SF Rebels 17U: Porter is a shifty guard who uses spacing well and is apt at keeping his dribble alive. His decision making and passing are solid.

Reggie Theus 6-foot-6 Wing Fairfax (2013) LAX Hoops: The son of former Sacramento King, Reggie Theus Sr. (who also coached the team) is a compact player who is strong in attacking the basket. He handles the ball well and made good passes. He is not afraid of physical contact as he attacked the boards.

Article 306: Classic Day 1 report

May 27, 2012

Bigfoot Hoops made a stop in Walnut Creek for its Bay Area Memorial Weekend Classic. The event featured primarily teams from the west coast, including the familiar Oakland Rebels and Oakland Soldiers but a young PHPS Elite 15U team has a roster of up and coming prospects from the Sacramento region. Here is a look at some of the Northern California players.

Andrew Cox-Gilmore 6-foot-6 PF Pinole Valley (2013) Oakland Rebels 17U: Cox-Gilmore doubles as a defensive end on the football team, which makes it no surprise that he is such a powerful and relentless rebounder. He may be undersized in height but his raw strength allows him to clear out the paint and he has good shot blocking instincts. Reno and Sacramento State have expressed some interest for basketball but he is getting more serious looks on the football side that includes Pac-12 schools.

Ryan Diew 6-foot-2 SG Head Royce (2013) Oakland Rebels 17U: Diew is a solid defender who moves his feet well and has long arms to disrupt passing lanes. He is dependable perimeter shooter who also finishes well on the break. Columbia and Cornell have sent some feelers, as his academics are solid.

Trey Belton 6-foot-5 Wing Capital Christian (2015) PHPS Elite 15U: At his age, Belton moves his feet well in the paint. The left-hander has a consistent perimeter touch. He is a good rebounder and rotates well on his help defense. He was a core part of his high school team this past season.

Chris Haney 6-foot-2 PG Sheldon (2013) Nor Cal Pharaohs: Haney is quick, big, and athletic for a point guard. His size and lateral movement make him a good defender while he makes good passes. He needs more playing time on a loaded Sheldon team but has some contact from Boise State.

Cole Lockwood 6-foot-0 G Santa Clara (2014) Roadrunners 16: Lockwood is a versatile scorer in both his perimeter shooting and going to the paint scoring. He is aggressive in the paint on both ends. He needs to increase his defensive intensity on the perimeter.

Jabbar Brown 6-foot-2 Wing Vallejo (2015) PHPS Elite 15U: Tajai Johnson is headed south but Vallejo has a good replacement in Brown. He is athletic and long which makes him rather effective as a shot blocker against guards. He has a good one on one game in addition to a nice pull up shot.

Jerron Love 5-foot-10 PG (2015) Oakland Soldiers 16U: Love is a new addition to the Soldiers roster as he is just moved to Fresno and has not decided on his high school. He is quick and adapt at breaking down his defender. He has a good feel for the game and a high basketball IQ. His on ball defense is solid as well.

Devin Greene 5-foot-9 PG Sheldon (2016) PHPS Elite 15U: The middle school prospect is headed to Sheldon but already displays a solid grasp of the point guard duties. He has good handles, proper court vision, a pull up jumper, and can lock down his perimeter opponent.

Tyler Hatton 6-foot-8 C Folsom (2013) Nor Cal Pharaohs: Hatten has quick feet for a post player that allows him to finish at the basket. He does not shy away from contact and, as a result, goes to the free throw line frequently with a good shooting touch from there.

Justice Shelton-Mosley 5-foot-10 G Capital Christian (2015) PHPS Elite 15U: Shelton-Mosley has extreme speed, can get to the paint with ease, and is adept at finishing. He plays tight perimeter defense. He was one of two starting freshman at Capital Christian last season.

Isaiah Thomas 6-foot-6 C KIPP (2015) Oakland Rebels 15U: Thomas has good height and size for his age and projects to be a post player. He is already advanced for his age in terms of a nice touch, post moves, and drop step maneuver on offense. With his length, he can alter shots on defense.

Demar Dunn 5-foot-10 PG Salesian (2015) Oakland Soldiers 15U: Dunn is the younger brother of Mario. Similar to his brother, Dunn is a slasher and is aggressive in his play. He can finish with either hand and is a solid perimeter defender.

Jalen Carr-Harris 6-foot-3 F Berkeley (2015) Oakland Rebels 15U: Carr-Harris has a sturdy frame to help on the offensive boards but has the handles to drive to the basket. His size and length also allows him to rotate on the defensive end. He potentially could be a good replacement for Oregon State bound Langston Morris-Walker.

Ryan White 6-foot-4 Wing The King's Academy (2014) Roadrunners 16: White is an aggressive rebounder who has a nose for the ball. He finishes well at the basket and has good ball handling skills for his size.

Damien Mitchell 5-foot-11 PG Lighthouse Community (2015) Oakland Rebels 15U: Mitchell has good quickness to break down defenders to create offense opportunities. His lateral movement makes his on ball defense strong.

Eric Duncan 6-foot-1 PG Mcnair (2013) PHPS 17 Black: Duncan is sturdy and quick for a point guard. His lateral movement allows him to lock down on defense. Boise State, Cal Poly SLO, Idaho State, Montana State, and Southern Utah are in contact with him.

Moneer Mujaddidi 6-foot-2 PF Miramonte (2015) Oakland Soldiers 15U: Mujaddidi is deceptively quick for his size as he can guard on the inside or the outside. He has a good mid-range shot and is capable at finishing at the basket.

Cole Nordquist 6-foot-3 SG Pleasant Grove (2013) PHPS 17 Black: Nordquist is active on defense. He has an accurate shooter but needs to be more aggressive in looking for his offense. He is often overshadowed on his Pleasant Grove team but does have a feeler from Boise State.

Josh Simms 6-foot-0 PG Oak Ridge (2013) Nor Cal Pharaohs: Simms is a dependable ball handle who can break down pressure. Conversely, he can lock down against the opposing guard. He has a respectable perimeter shot as well.

Jamilah Brown 6-foot-2 SG Oakland (2014) Oakland Soldiers 16U: The left hander has a consistent perimeter shot but is also a versatile scorer who can create for teammates as well. He has good length to be disruptive on defense but needs to assist more in the help defense rotations.

Article 305: EYBL Day 1

The Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) made its ways to the Bay Area on Friday for the four day session as the top 24 teams out of 40 qualify to make the trip south to Peach Jam later in the summer. The lone Northern California team is the Oakland Soldiers who played without regular starters, Jabari Bird and Aaron Gordon, due to injuries. Here is a look at some players with ties to Northern California.

Marcus Lee 6-foot-9 F Deer Valley (2013) California Supreme Elite: Lee went up against the twin towers 2014 Jahlil Okafor and 2013 Jabari Parker from Chicago based Mac Irvin Fire. In the end, Lee's Southern California based club lost 77-65 but he displayed his versatility throughout the contest. Lee was aggressive in the paint, taking the ball to the paint, blocked shots, and rebounded well.

When asked what it is like to play and to practice with California Supreme Elite, Lee said, "Great experience. I love my team. We go to battle for each other. (Coach) Miles (Simon) does a great job of getting us all together and working towards a single goal. All we care about is winning. We start on the defensive end and then run. But we try to make smart decisions."

EYBL is in its third year of the current format of pool play before qualifying teams progress to Peach Jam. The competition can be fierce. "It's a battle every game," Lee continued. "There aren't any bad players. And teams are getting better as the sessions go on. I'm going against my size and bigger every game. It's a challenge I'm excited for."

To no surprise, the increased competition has helped with Lee's progression. "It's great for me. There aren't a ton of bigs in the Bay Area," said Lee. "It's the closest thing I can get to a college open gym while still being organized. It's helping me understand how hard I need to play and I've realized I can compete at this level if I keep working hard."


Isaiah Taylor 6-foot-2 PG The Village School (2013) Texas Pro: The former St. Mary's Berkeley product is now in the Lone Star state. He is bigger in stature and still plays with an aggressive nature in driving to the paint. Taylor states that he has offers from George Mason, Lehigh, Northeastern, and San Jose State. In addition to the move to Texas, Taylor also reclassified to the 2013 class. His size and quickness for a point guard makes him an attractive prospect.


Tyree Robinson and Tyrell Robinson 6-foot-4 SG Lincoln (2013) Oakland Soldiers: The San Diego based twins are making their second year on the Soldiers' prime team. Tyree was able to convert on two three point shots in helping the Soldiers defeat a loaded Houston Hoops team 68-60. Both of the twins play aggressive and at a fast pace. They also are on the football team and displayed a linebacker's mentality in attacking the basket while they also got numerous steals with safety-like anticipation and closing time.

Tyrell says about his time with the Soldiers, "The experience helped us grow up and become young men. If you are not producing, get in the lab (basketball gym)."

Shaqquan Aaron 6-foot-6 F (2014) Oakland Soldiers: Aaron has a long frame with a matching wingspan. Despite being wiry, he was in the post and was able to rebound well and defend. He has a nose for the ball on defense and is athletic. Due to his transfer, he had to sit out this past year and is still undecided on which high school he will attend in the fall. "Since I did not play in high school, it makes me want to play harder - especially with the college coaches out there to see you," said Aaron.

Stanley Johnson 6-foot-7 F Mater Dei (2014) Oakland Soldiers: Mater Dei is always a state contender. With prospects such as Johnson, that comes as no surprise as he is the most polished and versatile healthy player for the Soldiers. He has a big frame for his age, is athletic, and runs the floor well. He can rebound, bring the ball up, score in different ways, and defend various positions.

"I want to be in attack mode more and be a leader," said Johnson. "The EYBL puts you on the main platform of college recruiting. If you are good, people will notice."

Article 304: Memorial Day Classic

May 24, 2012

The summer basketball club scene heats up this Memorial Day weekend and features some of the better known Northern California clubs at the Bay Area Memorial Day Classic. In addition, prominent clubs from Colorado, Fresno, Southern California, and Washington will make the trek to NorCal Courts and Alhambra High in Martinez, Benicia High, and College Park High in Concord. The event will culminate on Monday afternoon with the championship games.

With 90 teams participating, here are some of the teams and players to watch for:

Oakland Kings: The gritty style with tenacious defense and rebounding is their hallmark as they have already won tournaments at the Pangos Sweet 16, Reebok Breakout Challenge, and City Championship.

Double Pump Elite 2013: A team synonymous with the club scene features 6-foot-8 Tanner Lancona (Tesoro), Pepperdine-bound Jeremy Major from Maranatha, Bishop Montgomery's Lamond Murray Jr. (son of former Cal star Lamond Murray), London Perrantes (Crespi), and 6-foot-7 Michael Thomas (El Camino Real).

Play Hard Play Smart: The Sacramento based club includes Sheldon standouts Dakarai Allen, Derryl Williams, and Ryan Manning. In addition, Franklin product Darin Johnson is on the team.

LAX Hoops: LAX has a loaded roster that includes juniors Sam Findley from Centennial of Corona, 6-foot-9 Alpha Ndaw of Valley Christian of Saddleback, Antown Johnson from Orange Lutheran, 6-foot-6 Reggie Theus from Fairfax (son of former NBA player and coach, Reggie Theus), and NorCal transplant Kendall Smith from Deer Valley.

Greenline: Also known as De La Salle, the summer club version features national recruit Elliott Pitts and promising post prospect Patrick Marr.

Pioneer Tech: The Evergreen State brings juniors that include Gonzaga commit and 6-foot-8 Lucas Meikle from Bellarmine Prep Tacoma, Brad Wallace from River Ridge, and Keenan Williams of Capital Olympia.

Oakland Rebels Red: Includes promising point guards Jalen Mcferren (Castro Valley) and Joey Frenchwood (Newark Memorial) while the wings feature Jonathan Boddie (Central Catholic), Derrick Clayton (Castro Valley), and Temidayo Yussuf of St. Joseph's.

Colorado Chaos: The Centennial State team includes juniors Austin Sparks from Valor Christian, Carlton Hurst (Aurora Central), and Zack Rusk of Thunder Ridge.

Modesto Basketball Club (MBC): Serves as the summer home for the Modesto Christian program. The team includes highly regarded 2015 prospects Anthony Townes and Leandro Amador, and sophomore guards Tyras Rattler and Mason Washington.

Organized Chaos 17U: The Central Valley based club features LJ Moore from Central High, post prospect John Fenton (Central Catholic Modesto), and sophomore Calvin Young of Bullard.

Lakeshow 17: Lakeshow features promising juniors in Raymond Bowles, Henry Caruso, and EJ Floreal.

Bay Area Hoosiers: The San Jose based team includes Palma star Noah Allen who has offers from a few Ivy League programs and has interest from several other programs. The club also has features Weston Ranch shooting guard Dylan Alexander and Salesian point guard Markel Leonard.

Other notable programs in attendance include Bay Area Warriors (featuring Cardinal Newman's Kenny Love), Bay Area Bulls (Bellarmine Prep's Blair Mendy and Grant Vermeer), Lunardi's (Burlingame's Frankie Ferrari), SF Rebels, NorCal Warriors, Davis Wildcats, among others.

Notable first day games on Saturday include LAX Hoops versus Oakland Kings, Colorado Chaos vs Greenline, MBC vs Oakland Rebels Red, and Bay Area Hoosiers vs Organized Chaos. All pool play games in the elite division will be held at Nor Cal Courts.

Article 303: Kings win City Championship

May 21, 2012

The City Championship Tournament at City College of San Francisco finished bracket play for both the champions and consolation brackets on Sunday. The Oakland Kings survived a game-ending shot by Lakeshow to win 50-49 in the champions bracket. In the consolation bracket, the Bay Area Warriors 17U squad prevailed 67-64 over the Modesto Pirates.

Noah Wellington 6-foot-3 SG Elk Grove (2013) Oakland Kings 17s: Wellington has good length for a guard and lateral movement. He displayed a respectable perimeter shot through the weekend but can be more aggressive with his overall offensive game. His Elk Grove squad finished second in the Delta Valley Conference, but he will be a key piece in battling Franklin and Laguna Creek through the season.

Andre Russell 6-foot-5 F San Leandro (2012) Oakland Kings 17s: Russell was aggressive and versatile in the two days. The senior is undersized to play the post and still needs work on his perimeter game in order to play at a four year college. But Russell did not hesitate in going after rebounds, had several key offensive put backs in the paint, and ran the court well.

Justin Patton 6-foot-3 Wing Sierra (2013) Modesto Pirates: Patton is physical and fairly athletic. He plays the post for both his undersized club and high school team. His development in his perimeter game will determine his recruiting stock.

Joshua Patton 6-foot-5 F Sierra (2015) Modesto Pirates: The younger brother is projected to make the Sierra varsity team that went 27-4 this past season. Patton is leaner but taller than his older brother and has room to grow. He is still very raw but has the potential both physically and skill wise.

EJ Floreal 6-foot-4 Wing Palo Alto (2013) Lakeshow 17s Black: Floreal has bulked up and can take on more physical contact. The development of his perimeter game could improve his recruiting stock. The track star apparently has received a basketball offer from CSU Bakersfield recently.

Graham Gilleran 6-foot-7 Post Archbishop Riordan (2013) OC Elite: Gilleran has a big frame but has good agility for his size. He has good vision in his passing for a big man but still is physically a tweener. Nebraska Omaha, Oberlin, and Yale have been in contact.

Joey Frenchwood 6-foot-0 PG Newark Memorial (2014) Oakland Rebels 16U: Frenchwood hit a couple of clutch perimeter shots. He is a sturdy point guard who runs a solid system at Newark Memorial. A more consistent perimeter game and increase in scoring should improve his recruiting stock.

Nate Cohen 6-foot-3 SG Urban School (2013) OC Elite: Cohen has a good spot up perimeter shot and has good size for a guard. His lateral movement and perimeter defense will determine his recruiting.

Ahmad Smith 6-foot-1 PG Bella Vista (2013) Nor Cal Warriors Black 17U: Smith is a very good scoring point guard who has the ability to create his own shot. He plays with a motor on both ends and possesses an accurate floater in the paint.

Josh Sykes 6-foot-6 F Golden Valley (2014) Modesto Slam N Jam: Sykes is intriguing as he is athletic, runs well, and has some pliable skills. His offense is raw but his length and defense are not liabilities. He is a prospect that might be hidden in the Central Valley.

Anthony Williams 6-foot-1 SG Foothill (2013) Nor Cal Warriors Black 17U: Williams is a very explosive scorer, has good athletic ability, and has a solid pull up three. He is a solid and versatile perimeter defender.

Jonathan Boddie 6-foot-6 F Central Catholic (2014) Oakland Rebels 16U: Boddie is active and aggressive despite having a lean frame. He runs the floor well and is agile in his movement. He teams with post prospect John Fenton in high school.

Guillermo Nunez 6-foot-2 SG Sierra (2013) Bay Area Hoosiers 17s: Nunez displayed a consistent outside shot as he hit several key open looks. He moved well without the ball and was able to find his shot. He is a bit undersized and will need to complete his overall game for the next level.

Jeremy Dennis 6-foot-4 Wing St Mary's Berkeley (2013) Bay Area Warriors 17s: St Mary's had a down year but Dennis has good length and versatility. He will have to be a perimeter player at the next level but does not back down in the paint. But he has respectable dribbling, has perimeter range, and has some explosiveness above the rim.

Dalvin Guy 6-foot-7 PF Mcclymonds (2013) DBC: Guy runs well and is athletic for a forward. He may need to be a bit taller to be a power forward in college as his perimeter skills and ball handling are lacking for a wing. But he is explosive as he had a few dunks and has a big body for the post play.

Dylan Alexander 6-foot-3 SG Weston Ranch (2013) Bay Area Hoosiers 17s: The Weston Ranch product has been in contact with various schools in the Big West and WCC conferences. Alexander plays a deliberate and methodical game as he lets the game come to him. He has a quick release and good form for his perimeter shot.

Gregory Polosky 6-foot-8 Post San Ramon Valley (2015) Lakeshow Black 15s: Polosky is long and moves well for his height. He will need to add bulk but has a college potential body and frame. He will need to improve his mid-range game.

Jonathan Galloway 6-foot-8 Post Liberty (2014) Oakland Soldiers 16s: Galloway is has good length and shows some rebounding aggression. He should average a double double easily in the rest of his high school career. Galloway could fill out more of his size and improve his post skill development to increase his stock.

Nate Ambrosini 6-foot-4 Wing Fortuna (2014) Nor Cal Warriors 16U: Ambrosini is a versatile scorer who has good ball handling skills. He is a good passer, can take the ball into the paint, and can pull up for his own shot.

Grant Smith 6-foot-1 SG Foothill (2014) Nor Cal Warriors 16U: Smith has a consistent three point shot. He plays tough and physical.

Gabriel Vincent 6-foot-2 SG St Mary's Stockton (2014) Oakland Soldiers 16s: Vincent has good form in his perimeter shot and is of a sturdy build. He should be the leading perimeter scorer for his high school.

Meshawn Beard 5-foot-10 PG Oakland (2014) Oakland Rebels 17U: Beard is a very relentless point guard in that he puts pressure on defense in both full court transition and half court sets. He is a bit undersized but is stocky and aggressive. If he is eligible, he can be a big plus for his high school program.

Cole Mcconnell 6-foot-5 Wing Sacred Heart Prep (2012) Lakeshow 17s Black: The sharp-shooter will be attending New Hampton Prep. This is the same prep school that current UC Irvine players, Will Davis and Travis Souza, attended. Mcconnell's older brother, Reed, is also part of the UC Irvine roster.

*Weekend Note: Cal Assistant Coach Jay John and Stanford Coach Johnny Dawkins were in attendance to view their respective sons play. San Jose State Football Coach Mike Macintyre was also in attendance watching his son play.

Article 302: City Championship Day 1

May 20, 2012

The City Championship Tournament at City College of San Francisco featured some of the better known clubs on Saturday. Castro Valley is still looking for a replacement coach but the new coach will have talented 2014 prospects Derrick Clayton and Jalen Mcferren. De La Salle will be a team to look out for as next year's team will have some post size in freshman Patrick Marr and Elliott Pitts.

Jalen Mcferren 5-foot-11 PG Castro Valley (2014) Oakland Rebels 16: Mcferren is aggressive in taking the ball to the basket and has the agility and strength to finish with the post defenders. He also distributes the ball well to his teammates.

Derrick Clayton 6-foot-6 Wing Castro Valley (2014) Oakland Rebels 16: Clayton has the length and size to get to the basket with ease and explosiveness in his game. He has a serviceable perimeter game but it has to be more consistent. Both Clayton and Mcferren led a surprising Castro Valley team this past year. Whoever is hired as the replacement coach, Castro Valley is led by a talented pair of juniors-to-be and can build off of this past season's success.

Elliott Pitts 6-foot-5 Wing De La Salle (2013) Greenline: Pitts is nearing double digits in terms of the number of college offers. He is athletic and versatile, which allows him to affect the game with his scoring, rebounding, and defense. He plays for a thinking man's basketball system in the De La Salle program and would fit well playing for something similar like a Georgetown or Princeton style offense.

Patrick Marr 6-foot-7 F De La Salle (2015) Greenline: De La Salle has done quite well the past two seasons without any legit post size. Marr teaming with Pitts in the post will create even more matchup problems for opponents as Marr runs the floor well and moves laterally with ease. He will be only a sophomore next year, which means he is still early in his development.

Grant Vermeer 6-foot-3 SG Bellarmine (2013) Bay Area Bulls: Bluntly stated, Vermeer can flat out score in any manner. He can constrict his body on the fast break, perform an up and under in the paint, or spot up outside the arc for perimeter shots. He is not overly imposing in either his height or size, but has come to play at each major Bay Area event so far.

Enrico Nuno 6-foot-6 Post Half Moon Bay (2014) Bay Area Warriors 16s: Nuno runs well for his size and uses his body to create space in the post. He has a nice midrange touch. His father coaches the linemen at City College of San Francisco.

Owen Putz 6-foot-9 Post Half Moon Bay (2013) Bay Area Warriors 17s: Putz runs the floor well and moves laterally well for a post player. He is becoming more aggressive on the boards and is developing his post game still. But his size and athleticism should draw interest from colleges as his high school team looks to be quite formidable next season.

Noah Allen 6-foot-6 SF Palma (2013) Bay Area Hoosiers 17s: Allen hit a couple of perimeter shots in addition to being able to take the ball to the basket. He looks to have the foundation in his size and skill to be a solid small forward for college as he has given up football to focus on basketball. Harvard, Penn, and Yale are the three trifecta Ivy League programs who have given him an offer while he confirmed that Stanford and Washington State are interested.

Harold Getz 6-foot-4 Wing University (2013) Bay Area Warriors 17s: For his high school, Getz plays the post but has enough perimeter skills for college. His ball handling and perimeter shooting development will be critical in his recruiting. He has feelers from Columbia and Tufts.

Aubrey Dawkins 6-foot-4 G Palo Alto (2013) Bay Area Hoosiers 17s: Dawkins looks fluid on the court, as he is long and comfortable in letting the game come to him. With the added height and size from last year, Dawkins has legit college guard size. His basketball skill is also developing and maturing for the next level.

Kevin Price 6-foot-5 F Lincoln (2014) ACA: Price transferred from Fresno for the upcoming year. He is a hustle guy who goes after rebounds and plays defense. His offensive game is very raw but his athleticism and potential is worth a look.

Michael Smith 6-foot-2 SG El Camino (2013) SF Rebels 17U: Smith can flat out shoot as he displayed an adept perimeter touch and quick release. His ball handling and lateral movement will affect his recruiting, as he does not have the height to play in the post. He has good bulk, which is why he is often manning the post for his high school team.

Ivan Rabb 6-foot-8 Post Bishop O'Dowd (2015) Oakland Soldiers 16s: Rabb is an athletic post that can run the floor well. With the loss of Richard Longrus and TJ Daniel to the Pac-12 and a coaching change, Rabb will have to step up literally and figuratively for his high school team. Rabb did get his first offer from Arizona earlier in the club season.

Frankie Ferrari 5-foot-10 PG Burlingame (2014) Lunardi's: Ferrari was a starter this past season for Burlingame as he plays tough and does not back down on offense. He also hit several perimeter shots. He is reminiscent of another Peninsula prep prospect in his style of play in former Serra guard, Connor Mcgrath.

Trevor John 6-foot-2 SG Monte Vista (2014) Oakland Soldiers 16s: John is one of the better pure perimeter shooters on the Soldiers 16s. In addition, he is built stocky but yet has good lateral movement for his guard position. John doubles as a solid pitching prospect and his father is on the Cal Bears basketball coaching staff.

Zerrion Payton 6-foot-2 PG Modesto Christian (2013) Lunardi's: Payton is doing double duty as he also plays for his Modesto Basketball club. But the point guard has good size and plays fundamentally sound at the point guard. He can score more if needed but has always had solid wing and post players to pass to while he was at Weston Ranch and when he starts for Modesto Christian next season.

James O'Neal 6-foot-2 G Freedom (2013) Lakeshow 17s White: O'Neal played most of the point for his club. But he still has tendencies to be a scorer as he can take the ball to the basket with ease and create his own shot. Northern Colorado has expressed interest in him.

Matthew Hayes 6-foot-0 G Pleasant Grove (2013) 707s Finest 17U: Hayes is a quick guard with versatile moves to the basket. He is wiry and athletic but he is more likely to be a point guard at the next level and needs his ball handling and passing to develop. He should complement Malik Thames in the Pleasant Grove backcourt.

Leo Smith 5-foot-9 PG Oakland Tech (2013) Oakland Rebels 17U: Smith plays like a pitbull as a point guard. He has no hesitation in diving for loose balls or driving the ball into the bodies of opponents. His guard play is really fearless.

Kenjana Evans 5-foot-7 PG Castlemont (2013) DBC: Evans is an undersized guard but is fast and has an accurate, quick perimeter shot. He follows the mold of so many of the Oakland Athletic League guards in that they are tough and gritty in their play. But obviously, his height and size will affect his college recruiting.

Jay Macintyre 5-foot-10 PG Valley Christian (2014) Lakeshow 16s: Macintyre is the starting quarterback for his high school and his father is the head football coach at San Jose State. Macintyre plays basketball in a similar fashion as he comes at opponents with a full steam of force in the paint. He has a serviceable perimeter shot as well.

Denzel Bellot 6-foot-3 SG Mcclymonds (2013) DBC: Bellot is an athletic guard who elevated above the rim a few times. He has good quickness and lateral movement in his perimeter defense. Mcclymonds lost quite a few starters this past season but Bellot could help fill the void.

Kiran Shastri 6-foot-5 Wing Miramonte (2013) Oakland Rebels 17U: Shastri is a very methodical player who lets the game come to him. He was spotted up for a few open perimeter shots that he displayed good rhythm and flow. He has good length and wingspan but may need to add some bulk for the next level.

Jason Webster 6-foot-1 G St Patrick St Vincent (2013) NorCal Warriors: Northern Colorado, UC Davis, and Portland are in contact with Webster. He runs a team well with his ball handling. He has good size for a guard. His SPSV team returns some post size for him to distribute to for next season. Webster also plans to attend some college camps on the east coast. His recruiting may pick up by the end of the summer.

Mike Pickney 5-foot-8 PG St Mary's Berkeley (2014) Lakeshow 16s: Pickney hit a couple of three point baskets as he sets himself up well for his shots and passes. He plays wily for his size. His college recruiting may still depend on how much bigger he gets.

Article 301: Dickey to ride with Gauchos

May 7, 2012

The St. Francis Lancers finished this past season with a mediocre 14-13 but senior forward Drew Dickey averaged 13.3 points and 7.4 rebounds in his senior campaign. Year over year, Dickey has bulked up and shown more aggression in the post as a physical player who goes after rebounds. His efforts will see him ride off to UC Santa Barbara next year as a walk-on player.

"I chose UCSB because they have a winning tradition and the work ethic of the team that I was able to see when I went to visit was impressive," says Dickey. "Every member of the team works hard and plays to win, and that drive is something that is vital in a team."

The Gauchos have gone to the NCAA Tournament two of the past three years while winning the Big West Championship in those two years. The team has also had two 20 win seasons in that time frame as well.

The 6-foot-9 and 220 pounder made the decision to be a recruited walk-on after his mid-month visit last month. "Coach Matt Stock recruited me," says Dickey. "The coaches were very welcoming and provided me with a closer look into the team as well as the school, which allowed me to realize that UCSB was the right fit for me."

Six seniors from the Gauchos will have graduated from this season's roster. Of note, Orlando Johnson is expected to be a shooting guard drafted in the second round of the upcoming NBA draft. In addition, 7-foot-3 Greg Somogyi prepped at Woodside Priory as a local product.

Dickey says, "Every single one of the players was very welcoming and I was able to blend in very well with the style of play. I felt good playing with the team, and the players all made it clear that I would fit in well."

The returning roster will have a Bay Area feel for Dickey as well. Players from the area include Oakland High's TJ Taylor, Castlemont's John Green, and De La Salle's Duke Dare.

Dickey already has mapped out his plans when arriving on campus. "As a freshman I plan to redshirt, which will provide me an extra year of working out and practicing to grow into my role on the team," says Dickey. "I feel that another year to develop my body and skills will be very beneficial for me, and I look forward to getting started."

In addition, Dickey wants to focus on certain basketball skills. "I am working on my overall strength as well as my footwork/quickness," says Dickey. "I hope to play the 4 position, allowing me to play both inside and out, and with good footwork and quickness it should be a much easier transition."

UC Santa Barbara offers a world-class education in an ideal location. The academics are strong and a degree from UCSB will provide Dickey with opportunities after college. The university has produced five Nobel Laureates, all of which were awarded since 1998.

Dickey will look to wrap up in Mountain View soon. Dickey says, "I am enrolling and beginning my college life on August 2nd. School doesn't start officially until mid-September but the extra month and a half will allow me to spend time working out with the team as well as getting used to campus life and my classes. I can't wait to get started in August." Watch for this future Gaucho to ride off to the Santa Barbara coast.