October 26, 2013
In a SCVAL De Anza Division battle that will be critical in determining
the eventual league champion, Milpitas rallied from a halftime deficit
as well as a fourth quarter deficit to win 31-28 in Palo Alto. The
Trojans scored five touchdowns as two came from star running back Squally Canada. Palo Alto had four touchdowns with Stanford commit quarterback Keller Chryst throwing for two and running for one.
Milpitas is undefeated in league play with four wins as Canada, Tre Hartley,
and junior running back Savion Black lead the Trojans' attack. Canada
is a bruising back who also has the speed to get to the edge on sweeps.
Hartley is the most versatile as he was effective as a defensive back,
wide receiver, and return man. Black provides a good second option to
Canada in the backfield as he had two touchdown runs himself and will be
featured on the offense as a senior. The Milpitas line play was
effective on both sides as the running game was obvious in its
productivity, but the defensive side was also able to apply pressure in
their pass rush.
Palo Alto will go only as far as their line play
will take them. Even with a BCS level quarterback in Chryst, he was
constantly harassed and had to scramble out of the pocket to make plays.
Senior running back Andrew Frick
had two scores and senior wide receiver Keesean Johnson had one as they
do provide Chryst with some offensive options. On the defensive side,
the unit was able to make some key stops but got gashed on several
double-digit yard runs and a few big pass plays.
Milpitas
controls its own destiny in league play as they could face Los Gatos in
the season finale for the league title. Despite being one dimensional
in its offensive attack, opponents have had trouble stopping them even
if they know what is coming. Milpitas needs to work on the penalties
and special teams as they had a few unsportsmanlike calls and did not
convert on the extra point or two-point conversions on its first four
touchdowns.
Palo Alto will need to win out to have a winning
record for the regular season, as their key game will be against Los
Gatos, the other currently undefeated team in league play. The Vikings
look like they will have to win in high offensive scoring games, as the
defense has not been able to slow down formidable opponents up to now.
With that kind of pressure, the offense has little margin for error and
needs to be efficient with their scoring and limit turnovers as Chryst
had two interceptions.
Squally Canada
6-foot-0, 190 pounds RB Milpitas (2014): Canada had 197 yards rushing
in the game to help him eclipse 1,000 rushing yards for the year. In
addition, he had the deciding score, which was a one-yard screen pass
that he turned into a 57-yard touchdown with less than two minutes in
the game. Canada hits the line fast and hard, but also has enough speed
to get to the edge. He was difficult to bring down in the open field.
Canada translates to being a productive running back on the college
level.
Keller Chryst
6-foot-4, 230 pounds QB Palo Alto (2014): When given time, Chryst can
make all the throws with both accuracy and arm strength. Even when
harassed, Chryst was able to scramble out of a few dicey situations to
get yardage or to make an outlet pass. Chryst had 252 yards passing
with two touchdowns while his two interceptions were in the last three
possessions of the game.
Andrew Frick
5-foot-11, 215 pounds FB/LB Palo Alto (2014): Frick had one score each
rushing and receiving. His 57 yard touchdown was a tackle breaking
screen catch that looked like the game winner with less than three
minutes left. Frick was also critical on defense as he wrapped up the
Milpitas runners and was sure handed in his tackling.
Tre Hartley
6-foot-0, 180 pounds DB/WR Milpitas (2014): Hartley showed the
versatility usually associated with a Charles Woodson or a Devin Hester.
Hartley had a 78-yard punt return called back in the first half but
the return displayed how elusive he is in the open field. He was tight
in his coverage as a defensive back. When the Trojans did pass, Hartley
was usually the first option and would often be able to create
separation or position himself well. He has solid hands and is an
all-around athlete. He should be an instant contributor at the college
level as he can play all three phases of the game.
Keesean Johnson 6-foot-2, 180 pounds DB/WR Palo Alto (2014): Johnson was
the lead receiver and had a 42-yard touchdown reception in the first
pass. He has good size and was elusive in the open field. He also
played well in the secondary.
Savion Black, 5-foot-10, 195 pounds, LB/RB Milpitas (2015): Black had
two nice touchdown runs in the game and complements Canada as a second
option in the backfield. Black is the team's second leading rusher and
has five rushing touchdowns for the year. The junior will emerge as a
prospect to watch next season.
Monday, October 28, 2013
Article 352: Padres trek through VC
October 20, 2013
Serra used a balanced offense with a stifling defense to remain undefeated in the West Catholic Athletic League with a 28-7 victory over Valley Christian on Saturday in San Mateo.
The Padres scored the game's first four touchdowns to take an insurmountable 28-0 early in the fourth quarter. Valley Christian's offense was only able to total 133 total yards from scrimmage as their lone score came late in the final quarter.
Serra's defense has kept all three WCAL opponents in single digits even without their top defensive prospect, Matt Dickerson who is still nursing a back injury. The Padres committed all three turnovers in the game but was not hurt by them. The offense was run-oriented as Kava Cassidy netted 133 yards on 24 carries with a touchdown.
The Warriors were one dimensional with a run attack that was without Kirk Johnson. Junior Tre Mccloud filled in with 66 yards rushing on 23 carries. The defense kept things close early but was worn down as the offense had too many short drives that resulted in seven total punts.
Serra's win leaves only Archbishop Mitty and the Padres as the two undefeated teams in league play with a premature but possible regular season finale that could determine the league title. Another premature possibility is that Serra runs the table in the regular season and the postseason to set up a rematch with De La Salle. The Padres are poised to make a deep run in the postseason as the team is balanced enough to do so.
VC is staring at a three game losing streak as it faces Bellarmine next week. If the passing game does not keep opposing defenses honest, the Warriors will have to lean on the defense. Valley Christian looks to be a middle of the pack team in a very tough WCAL season.
Matthew Fa'aita 5-foot-10, 190 pounds QB Serra (2014): Fa'aita is a dual threat quarterback even though he is a bit undersized. He had two fourth down touchdown passes that accounted for the first half scoring. Fa'aita passed for 128 yards and rushed for 22 yards.
Kava Cassidy 6-foot-0, 160 pounds RB Serra (2015): Cassidy is the featured running back as he went over 100 yards for the fifth straight game. He is averaging 109 yards per game and has seven rushing touchdowns for the season. With additional bulk, Cassidy could garner college interest.
Kelepi Lataimua 5-foot-7, 160 pounds RB Serra (2016): Lataimua only ran once but it resulted in a 60 yard rushing touchdown. The sophomore is the team's second leading rusher. He provides a solid second option to Cassidy.
Matt Dickerson 6-foot-5, 275 pounds DT Serra (2014): Committed to Notre Dame, Dickerson was not in pads for the game as he has yet to play in the season. From various resources, Dickerson had his back injury reevaluated. He probably will play later in the season.
Tre Mccloud RB Valley Christian (2015): The junior running back was the primary offensive option as Kirk Johnson was not in action. Mccloud had 66 yards rushing to lead the Warriors. Mccloud also made one reception as he can be an all around back and will complement Johnson well when the latter returns to action.
Serra used a balanced offense with a stifling defense to remain undefeated in the West Catholic Athletic League with a 28-7 victory over Valley Christian on Saturday in San Mateo.
The Padres scored the game's first four touchdowns to take an insurmountable 28-0 early in the fourth quarter. Valley Christian's offense was only able to total 133 total yards from scrimmage as their lone score came late in the final quarter.
Serra's defense has kept all three WCAL opponents in single digits even without their top defensive prospect, Matt Dickerson who is still nursing a back injury. The Padres committed all three turnovers in the game but was not hurt by them. The offense was run-oriented as Kava Cassidy netted 133 yards on 24 carries with a touchdown.
The Warriors were one dimensional with a run attack that was without Kirk Johnson. Junior Tre Mccloud filled in with 66 yards rushing on 23 carries. The defense kept things close early but was worn down as the offense had too many short drives that resulted in seven total punts.
Serra's win leaves only Archbishop Mitty and the Padres as the two undefeated teams in league play with a premature but possible regular season finale that could determine the league title. Another premature possibility is that Serra runs the table in the regular season and the postseason to set up a rematch with De La Salle. The Padres are poised to make a deep run in the postseason as the team is balanced enough to do so.
VC is staring at a three game losing streak as it faces Bellarmine next week. If the passing game does not keep opposing defenses honest, the Warriors will have to lean on the defense. Valley Christian looks to be a middle of the pack team in a very tough WCAL season.
Matthew Fa'aita 5-foot-10, 190 pounds QB Serra (2014): Fa'aita is a dual threat quarterback even though he is a bit undersized. He had two fourth down touchdown passes that accounted for the first half scoring. Fa'aita passed for 128 yards and rushed for 22 yards.
Kava Cassidy 6-foot-0, 160 pounds RB Serra (2015): Cassidy is the featured running back as he went over 100 yards for the fifth straight game. He is averaging 109 yards per game and has seven rushing touchdowns for the season. With additional bulk, Cassidy could garner college interest.
Kelepi Lataimua 5-foot-7, 160 pounds RB Serra (2016): Lataimua only ran once but it resulted in a 60 yard rushing touchdown. The sophomore is the team's second leading rusher. He provides a solid second option to Cassidy.
Matt Dickerson 6-foot-5, 275 pounds DT Serra (2014): Committed to Notre Dame, Dickerson was not in pads for the game as he has yet to play in the season. From various resources, Dickerson had his back injury reevaluated. He probably will play later in the season.
Tre Mccloud RB Valley Christian (2015): The junior running back was the primary offensive option as Kirk Johnson was not in action. Mccloud had 66 yards rushing to lead the Warriors. Mccloud also made one reception as he can be an all around back and will complement Johnson well when the latter returns to action.
Article 351: Super 100 Updates
October 14, 2013
The Annual Super 100 Basketball Camp held at El Cerrito High this past weekend featured its usual morning training sessions with afternoon games. Traditionally, only the top college prospects representing each high school class from Northern California are invited to participate. Here is a look at some of the talent and recruiting updates from the event.
Shon Briggs 6-foot-5 SF Heritage (2014): Briggs is skilled all around as his footwork, dribbling, and perimeter game is coming along. He holds offers from Nevada and San Jose State while hearing from CSU Northridge, Grand Canyon, Montana State, and Portland.
Trevor Dunbar 5-foot-10 PG St. Ignatius (2014): The shifty left-handed point guard has made inroads on his perimeter game. Dunbar has offers from Florida A&M and Prairie A&M while in contact with Cal Poly, CSU Northridge, Fairfield, Fresno State, Long Island, Miami Ohio, and San Diego. He wants to be at a place where he can contribute as a freshman.
Jiday Ugbaja 5-foot-11 PG Archbishop Riordan (2014): The senior displayed a more controlled style of play and better decision making while his perimeter jumpshot was cleaner in its release. Ugbaja has offers from Citadel, Sacramento State, and Tulane while still in contact with Pacific, Navy, St. Mary's, and UC Santa Barbara.
Mike Pickney 5-foot-11 PG Newark Memorial (2014): Pickney has gotten bigger and also shown improvement in his jumper and perimeter ball defense. Pickney will be a good addition to the Newark backcourt as he transferred from the St. Mary's Berkeley program.
Micah Elan 6-foot-2 G Lick Wilmerding (2016): The sophomore played composed and showcased a complete guard skill set. He dribbles tight and made crisp passes while being aggressive attacking the rim. Elan moves his feet well on defense and has a strong frame.
Oscar Frayer 6-foot-6 F Moreau Catholic (2016): Frayer is athletic and plays with intensity. The sophomore finishes well in the open court and will be one of the top players in the 2016 class. He will lead a talented but young Moreau team in the upcoming season.
Peter Hewitt 6-foot-9 PF St. Francis (2016): Hewitt has good size and movement as it shows in his rebounding and blocked shots. He runs the floor well and can play above the rim with ease. His offensive arsenal needs work but he has time to develop.
Ben Kone 6-foot-7 PF Archbishop Mitty (2016): Kone Has bulked up and chiseled out his frame. This has helped his rebounding, running the floor, and finishing in the post. After one year at Salesian, he is moving south due to his parent's employment situation.
Brandon Lawrence 6-foot-2 SG Moreau Catholic (2016): Lawrence is wiry with a smooth perimeter release on his jumper. He plays smart and is under control with his dribble and makes good passes.
Sayeed Pridgett 6-foot-4 SF El Cerrito (2016): Pridgett is another one of those long, athletic wing players who runs the court well, can dribble adequately, and finish at the basket. Only a sophomore, he will have the time to add bulk and height in addition to improving his rebounding position and defensive footwork.
Chiefy Ugbaja 6-foot-3 SF Archbishop Riordan (2014): The undersized forward still plays with great hustle and intensity but has also made improvements in his offensive game including his handle, passing, and shooting stroke. The senior who has looks from CSU Monterey Bay and Portland will lead Riordan into Division III play in the upcoming season.
Damari Milstead 6-foot-0 PG Moreau Catholic (2017): The freshman looks advanced for his age in terms of physical size, basketball skills, and mental control on the court. He goes to the paint with ease and finishes well. Milstead is slated to be the starting point guard on his Moreau team.
Jayce Johnson 6-foot-9 Post Mater Dei (2016): The Southern California attendee has a good frame and moves well for his size. He showcased a nice off hand hook shot in the paint. Johnson is not flashy in his style of play but is fundamentally sound for his age as he holds an early offer from CSU Northridge.
Alfred Hollins 6-foot-5 SF Sacred Heart Cathedral (2017): The San Francisco product is advanced at his age in size and skill. He is active and shoots the ball well. Hollins will be one of the top prospects in the 2017 class.
Kendall Mcintosh 6-foot-7 SG Freedom (2015): The junior is active and aggressive in his play as he was not afraid to rebound and shoot in the paint despite being wiry in his frame. Mcintosh will complement Elliot Smith on a tough Freedom team this upcoming season.
Arash Poorsia 6-foot-8 PF St. Ignatius (2016): The sophomore has a solid frame that he threw around in the paint as he hustles and rebounds well. He also runs the court and has a respectable midrange game. Poorsia needs to develop in the post but will be a good inside option on a sleeper St. Ignatius team.
The Annual Super 100 Basketball Camp held at El Cerrito High this past weekend featured its usual morning training sessions with afternoon games. Traditionally, only the top college prospects representing each high school class from Northern California are invited to participate. Here is a look at some of the talent and recruiting updates from the event.
Shon Briggs 6-foot-5 SF Heritage (2014): Briggs is skilled all around as his footwork, dribbling, and perimeter game is coming along. He holds offers from Nevada and San Jose State while hearing from CSU Northridge, Grand Canyon, Montana State, and Portland.
Trevor Dunbar 5-foot-10 PG St. Ignatius (2014): The shifty left-handed point guard has made inroads on his perimeter game. Dunbar has offers from Florida A&M and Prairie A&M while in contact with Cal Poly, CSU Northridge, Fairfield, Fresno State, Long Island, Miami Ohio, and San Diego. He wants to be at a place where he can contribute as a freshman.
Jiday Ugbaja 5-foot-11 PG Archbishop Riordan (2014): The senior displayed a more controlled style of play and better decision making while his perimeter jumpshot was cleaner in its release. Ugbaja has offers from Citadel, Sacramento State, and Tulane while still in contact with Pacific, Navy, St. Mary's, and UC Santa Barbara.
Mike Pickney 5-foot-11 PG Newark Memorial (2014): Pickney has gotten bigger and also shown improvement in his jumper and perimeter ball defense. Pickney will be a good addition to the Newark backcourt as he transferred from the St. Mary's Berkeley program.
Micah Elan 6-foot-2 G Lick Wilmerding (2016): The sophomore played composed and showcased a complete guard skill set. He dribbles tight and made crisp passes while being aggressive attacking the rim. Elan moves his feet well on defense and has a strong frame.
Oscar Frayer 6-foot-6 F Moreau Catholic (2016): Frayer is athletic and plays with intensity. The sophomore finishes well in the open court and will be one of the top players in the 2016 class. He will lead a talented but young Moreau team in the upcoming season.
Peter Hewitt 6-foot-9 PF St. Francis (2016): Hewitt has good size and movement as it shows in his rebounding and blocked shots. He runs the floor well and can play above the rim with ease. His offensive arsenal needs work but he has time to develop.
Ben Kone 6-foot-7 PF Archbishop Mitty (2016): Kone Has bulked up and chiseled out his frame. This has helped his rebounding, running the floor, and finishing in the post. After one year at Salesian, he is moving south due to his parent's employment situation.
Brandon Lawrence 6-foot-2 SG Moreau Catholic (2016): Lawrence is wiry with a smooth perimeter release on his jumper. He plays smart and is under control with his dribble and makes good passes.
Sayeed Pridgett 6-foot-4 SF El Cerrito (2016): Pridgett is another one of those long, athletic wing players who runs the court well, can dribble adequately, and finish at the basket. Only a sophomore, he will have the time to add bulk and height in addition to improving his rebounding position and defensive footwork.
Chiefy Ugbaja 6-foot-3 SF Archbishop Riordan (2014): The undersized forward still plays with great hustle and intensity but has also made improvements in his offensive game including his handle, passing, and shooting stroke. The senior who has looks from CSU Monterey Bay and Portland will lead Riordan into Division III play in the upcoming season.
Damari Milstead 6-foot-0 PG Moreau Catholic (2017): The freshman looks advanced for his age in terms of physical size, basketball skills, and mental control on the court. He goes to the paint with ease and finishes well. Milstead is slated to be the starting point guard on his Moreau team.
Jayce Johnson 6-foot-9 Post Mater Dei (2016): The Southern California attendee has a good frame and moves well for his size. He showcased a nice off hand hook shot in the paint. Johnson is not flashy in his style of play but is fundamentally sound for his age as he holds an early offer from CSU Northridge.
Alfred Hollins 6-foot-5 SF Sacred Heart Cathedral (2017): The San Francisco product is advanced at his age in size and skill. He is active and shoots the ball well. Hollins will be one of the top prospects in the 2017 class.
Kendall Mcintosh 6-foot-7 SG Freedom (2015): The junior is active and aggressive in his play as he was not afraid to rebound and shoot in the paint despite being wiry in his frame. Mcintosh will complement Elliot Smith on a tough Freedom team this upcoming season.
Arash Poorsia 6-foot-8 PF St. Ignatius (2016): The sophomore has a solid frame that he threw around in the paint as he hustles and rebounds well. He also runs the court and has a respectable midrange game. Poorsia needs to develop in the post but will be a good inside option on a sleeper St. Ignatius team.
Article 350: Vikings win opener
September 14, 2013
On a night when Palo Alto alum and current San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh was in attendance for the game's coin flip, the spotlight was on Vikings' quarterback Keller Chryst in his home opener against San Benito. Chryst had two passing touchdowns while looking crisp with his footwork and passing motion in the 28-7 win over the Haybalers.
Against a one dimensional rushing offense of San Benito, the Vikings built a comfortable 21-0 halftime lead before allowing the Haybalers to score on their last possession of the game. Chryst was helped out on the offensive end by fullback Andrew Frick, who had both a rushing and receiving touchdown in the game.
Despite being its season opener, Palo Alto's offense was sharp and executed well. The defense contained the San Benito offense while picking up key turnovers to stop any scoring threats early in the game.
San Benito depends on the running game, but needs some balance with the aerial attack to keep defenses honest. The defense should see better days as they faced an elite quarterback who has a solid set of wide receivers. San Benito hung tough, but needs to limit turnovers to be more competitive.
Keller Chryst 6-foot-4, 230 pounds QB Palo Alto (2014): Chryst has the prototypical size and arm strength as a pocket passer. The Stanford commit threw with good touch while also zipping the ball on the out patterns with ease. His size also allowed him to scramble out of a few potential sacks.
Malcolm Davis 5-foot-9, 165 pounds DB/WR Palo Alto (2014): Davis was instrumental in coverage as he played tight and broke up a few passes. He showed elusiveness on a reverse while also pulling in a 31 yard touchdown pass.
Andrew Frick 5-foot-11, 215 pounds FB/LB Palo Alto (2014): Frick had two scores on offense and proved to be a load to take down. On defense, he helped key the run defense that limited the San Benito drives.
Keesean Johnson 6-foot-2, 180 pounds DB/WR Palo Alto (2014): Johnson was an accurate receiver who is a good sized target. He has good speed as he was featured in some bubble screens.
Zach Hicks RB San Benito (2014) and Chris Blake RB San Benito (2015): Hicks accounted for the only score for the Haybalers on their last possession. Blake and Hicks are undersized backs, but they have good speed and both got to the edge on several occasions for nice gains.
On a night when Palo Alto alum and current San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh was in attendance for the game's coin flip, the spotlight was on Vikings' quarterback Keller Chryst in his home opener against San Benito. Chryst had two passing touchdowns while looking crisp with his footwork and passing motion in the 28-7 win over the Haybalers.
Against a one dimensional rushing offense of San Benito, the Vikings built a comfortable 21-0 halftime lead before allowing the Haybalers to score on their last possession of the game. Chryst was helped out on the offensive end by fullback Andrew Frick, who had both a rushing and receiving touchdown in the game.
Despite being its season opener, Palo Alto's offense was sharp and executed well. The defense contained the San Benito offense while picking up key turnovers to stop any scoring threats early in the game.
San Benito depends on the running game, but needs some balance with the aerial attack to keep defenses honest. The defense should see better days as they faced an elite quarterback who has a solid set of wide receivers. San Benito hung tough, but needs to limit turnovers to be more competitive.
Keller Chryst 6-foot-4, 230 pounds QB Palo Alto (2014): Chryst has the prototypical size and arm strength as a pocket passer. The Stanford commit threw with good touch while also zipping the ball on the out patterns with ease. His size also allowed him to scramble out of a few potential sacks.
Malcolm Davis 5-foot-9, 165 pounds DB/WR Palo Alto (2014): Davis was instrumental in coverage as he played tight and broke up a few passes. He showed elusiveness on a reverse while also pulling in a 31 yard touchdown pass.
Andrew Frick 5-foot-11, 215 pounds FB/LB Palo Alto (2014): Frick had two scores on offense and proved to be a load to take down. On defense, he helped key the run defense that limited the San Benito drives.
Keesean Johnson 6-foot-2, 180 pounds DB/WR Palo Alto (2014): Johnson was an accurate receiver who is a good sized target. He has good speed as he was featured in some bubble screens.
Zach Hicks RB San Benito (2014) and Chris Blake RB San Benito (2015): Hicks accounted for the only score for the Haybalers on their last possession. Blake and Hicks are undersized backs, but they have good speed and both got to the edge on several occasions for nice gains.
Article 349: Spartans rally in San Mateo
September 8, 2013
The Justin Alumbaugh era of De La Salle football is now 2-0 but the second win required the Spartans to rally in the fourth quarter. After a scoreless first half, Serra had a 14-7 lead midway into the final quarter before the Spartans battled to win 21-14.
The Spartans improved their NorCal win streak to 238 games. To reach such a streak, a team needs to play with guts and get some lucky breaks. The Spartans did not play their best game and had some critical first half injuries but dug down for the victory in the final quarter.
De La Salle will need to regroup as their next three games are against NCP Top 20 teams in St. Mary's Stockton, Del Oro, and San Ramon Valley. After that stretch, a trip scheduled to Southern California to face a perennial power in Servite of Anaheim. Any inconsistent play or lingering effects from the key injuries may expose the Spartans.
Serra's first half lack of offense may have been due to season opener jitters. But the defense kept the team in the game even without key starters. The offense showed some signs of life in the second half.
The Padres have a bye week to get healthy before taking on Encinal and Buhach Colony in non-league battles away from San Mateo. The league opener will be tough as they face Bellarmine in San Jose. This early stretch of road games could forecast how resilient the Padres will be.
Player Report
Adam Mayer 6-foot-1, 190 pounds WR/DB De La Salle (2015): Mayer elevated for a pass in the end zone at the end of the first half and landed awkwardly. The junior suffered a fracture in his leg as he was considered the top receiving threat in the passing game.
Dasmond Tautalatasi 6-foot-1, 190 pounds RB/DB De La Salle (2014): Committed to Arizona State, Tautalatasi dislocated his elbow early in the second quarter. His value on both sides of the ball will be missed and will test the depth of the Spartans.
Chris Williams 5-foot-11, 230 pounds QB De La Salle (2014): Williams is a load to take down as he had two goal line touchdown sneaks but also had a fumble and interception. With two of his skilled position starters on offense out, Williams will need to pick up the offensive load more now.
Austin Jackson 6-foot-4, 185 pounds WR Serra (2014): Jackson had two nice long receptions including the 85 yard score in the fourth quarter to give Serra a 14-7 lead. Jackson has good size for a receiver and displayed some shifty moves to get free for his long score.
Matthew Fa'aita 5-foot-10, 190 pounds QB Serra (2014): Fa'aita gives the Padres a mobile quarterback who can scramble out of trouble. He accounted for both of the Padres scores on a goal line sneak and the long passing play to Jackson. But Fa'aita also had two bad interceptions with the latter one setting up the winning score for the Spartans.
Matthew Dickerson 6-foot-5, 275 pounds DT Serra (2014): Committed to Notre Dame, Dickerson was not in pads for the game. With an extra bye week to rest, Dickerson should be ready for their matchup with Encinal.
The Justin Alumbaugh era of De La Salle football is now 2-0 but the second win required the Spartans to rally in the fourth quarter. After a scoreless first half, Serra had a 14-7 lead midway into the final quarter before the Spartans battled to win 21-14.
The Spartans improved their NorCal win streak to 238 games. To reach such a streak, a team needs to play with guts and get some lucky breaks. The Spartans did not play their best game and had some critical first half injuries but dug down for the victory in the final quarter.
De La Salle will need to regroup as their next three games are against NCP Top 20 teams in St. Mary's Stockton, Del Oro, and San Ramon Valley. After that stretch, a trip scheduled to Southern California to face a perennial power in Servite of Anaheim. Any inconsistent play or lingering effects from the key injuries may expose the Spartans.
Serra's first half lack of offense may have been due to season opener jitters. But the defense kept the team in the game even without key starters. The offense showed some signs of life in the second half.
The Padres have a bye week to get healthy before taking on Encinal and Buhach Colony in non-league battles away from San Mateo. The league opener will be tough as they face Bellarmine in San Jose. This early stretch of road games could forecast how resilient the Padres will be.
Player Report
Adam Mayer 6-foot-1, 190 pounds WR/DB De La Salle (2015): Mayer elevated for a pass in the end zone at the end of the first half and landed awkwardly. The junior suffered a fracture in his leg as he was considered the top receiving threat in the passing game.
Dasmond Tautalatasi 6-foot-1, 190 pounds RB/DB De La Salle (2014): Committed to Arizona State, Tautalatasi dislocated his elbow early in the second quarter. His value on both sides of the ball will be missed and will test the depth of the Spartans.
Chris Williams 5-foot-11, 230 pounds QB De La Salle (2014): Williams is a load to take down as he had two goal line touchdown sneaks but also had a fumble and interception. With two of his skilled position starters on offense out, Williams will need to pick up the offensive load more now.
Austin Jackson 6-foot-4, 185 pounds WR Serra (2014): Jackson had two nice long receptions including the 85 yard score in the fourth quarter to give Serra a 14-7 lead. Jackson has good size for a receiver and displayed some shifty moves to get free for his long score.
Matthew Fa'aita 5-foot-10, 190 pounds QB Serra (2014): Fa'aita gives the Padres a mobile quarterback who can scramble out of trouble. He accounted for both of the Padres scores on a goal line sneak and the long passing play to Jackson. But Fa'aita also had two bad interceptions with the latter one setting up the winning score for the Spartans.
Matthew Dickerson 6-foot-5, 275 pounds DT Serra (2014): Committed to Notre Dame, Dickerson was not in pads for the game. With an extra bye week to rest, Dickerson should be ready for their matchup with Encinal.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Article 348: Summer Jamboree Day 2
July 13, 2013
Day 2 of the NorCal JUCO Summer Jamboree featured California based junior college programs battling in scrimmages. Over 40 college coaches attended the two day event.
Here are some player updates:
Paris Davis 6-foot-3 G Skyline (Chabot) 2012: The 2012 high school graduate was at Fresno CC last year where he played four games before getting hurt. Davis expects to get a medical redshirt. At Chabot, he will try to hone his point guard skills to complement his aggressive and physical play.
Jelani Hardaway 6-foot-3 G Freedom (Merritt) 2012: Hardaway is bigger and stronger from a year ago as the Freedom product is trying to master the point guard role. His size and length have garnered attention from CSU Fullerton and Utah State.
Theo Hill 6-foot-5 Wing Marshall (Sequoias) 2012: Hill redshirted his first year. The San Francisco high school prospect looked good both inside and outside as he was athletic and showed a variety of scoring skills and was tough with his rebounding.
Mike Crawley 6-foot-5 Wing Antioch (Fresno City) 2011: The Antioch product is a slasher with good strength when going to the basket. He finishes well and is active on defense. He should be at least a DII find.
Sami Eleraky 7-foot-0 Post Aalborg Tekniske (City College of San Francisco) 2012: The Danish prospect is a postup player who plays physical. He originally was a Cal commit but his academics did not transfer properly even though he sported a 3.8 GPA.
Donny Wilder 6-foot-6 Wing Castlemont (Team AV) 2013: Wilder is long and thin but showed many basketball skills. He handled the ball well and could shoot from the perimeter. He needs to bulk up and decide if he will go the JUCO route.
Andre Frazier 6-foot-4 Wing Muir (Reedley) 2012: Frazier hit a few perimeter shots and displayed going to the basket. He was also fearless about rebounding. His size is a tweener but he has both the athleticism and basketball skills to add value to a program.
AJ Bridges 5-foot-10 PG Monterey Trail (Cosumnes River) 2009: Bridges is a quick point guard who is apt at attacking the rim. His lateral movement makes him an effective perimeter defender.
Greg Brown 5-foot-11 PG San Pedro (Chabot) 2009: Brown sees the floor well as a point guard and has a quick release. Per his coach, he is drawing interest from low DI programs.
Anthony Knight 6-foot-2 G El Camino (Merritt) 2012: Knight is a versatile guard who can score either by the dribble or by the perimeter. He has good size for a point guard and plays under control with good decision making.
Travonte Williams 6-foot-3 G Save (City College of San Francisco) 2011: The Alaska product is expected to make an impact for CCSF. He is an all around guard who has a versatile skill set.
Darell Pollee 6-foot-1 PG Global Youth Charter (Yuba) 2012: Pollee is quick and athletic. He takes the ball hard to the basket and is an aggressive defender.
Matt Simpkins 6-foot-9 PF Patterson (Chabot) 2008: The former John Calipari Memphis recruit has good size and strength. He is a back to the basket player. His DI eligibility requirements have expired but should be able to land at the other levels easily.
Jaycob Velasco 6-foot-7 PF Pleasant Valley (Cosumnes River) 2010: The face up power forward has good size to battle in the paint. Velasco has a good perimeter shot and passes well.
Brandon Berkovatz 6-foot-8 PF Mills (Skyline) 2012: The Mills product is a back to the basket forward. He plays tough and rebounds well. He passes and sees the floor well for an interior player.
Chris Smith 6-foot-5 Wing Center (Yuba) 2012: The Center product averaged close to 20 points last season and is a versatile scorer. Per his coach, he has 12 offers and over 20 schools interested as grades prevented him from going straight to a four year program from high school.
Darien Williams 6-foot-8 F St. John Bosco (Merritt) 2013: Williams is a versatile forward who can face up or post up. He was heavily recruited but his academics forced him to take the JUCO route. Despite that, his Merritt coach says that schools are still interested including CSU Fullerton, Portland State, UC Riverside, and Weber State.
James O'Neal 6-foot-2 G Freedom (Fresno City) 2013: O'Neal was headed for Chaminade but his standardized test scores fell short. He is a partial qualifier and plans to attend Fresno City College.
Day 2 of the NorCal JUCO Summer Jamboree featured California based junior college programs battling in scrimmages. Over 40 college coaches attended the two day event.
Here are some player updates:
Paris Davis 6-foot-3 G Skyline (Chabot) 2012: The 2012 high school graduate was at Fresno CC last year where he played four games before getting hurt. Davis expects to get a medical redshirt. At Chabot, he will try to hone his point guard skills to complement his aggressive and physical play.
Jelani Hardaway 6-foot-3 G Freedom (Merritt) 2012: Hardaway is bigger and stronger from a year ago as the Freedom product is trying to master the point guard role. His size and length have garnered attention from CSU Fullerton and Utah State.
Theo Hill 6-foot-5 Wing Marshall (Sequoias) 2012: Hill redshirted his first year. The San Francisco high school prospect looked good both inside and outside as he was athletic and showed a variety of scoring skills and was tough with his rebounding.
Mike Crawley 6-foot-5 Wing Antioch (Fresno City) 2011: The Antioch product is a slasher with good strength when going to the basket. He finishes well and is active on defense. He should be at least a DII find.
Sami Eleraky 7-foot-0 Post Aalborg Tekniske (City College of San Francisco) 2012: The Danish prospect is a postup player who plays physical. He originally was a Cal commit but his academics did not transfer properly even though he sported a 3.8 GPA.
Donny Wilder 6-foot-6 Wing Castlemont (Team AV) 2013: Wilder is long and thin but showed many basketball skills. He handled the ball well and could shoot from the perimeter. He needs to bulk up and decide if he will go the JUCO route.
Andre Frazier 6-foot-4 Wing Muir (Reedley) 2012: Frazier hit a few perimeter shots and displayed going to the basket. He was also fearless about rebounding. His size is a tweener but he has both the athleticism and basketball skills to add value to a program.
AJ Bridges 5-foot-10 PG Monterey Trail (Cosumnes River) 2009: Bridges is a quick point guard who is apt at attacking the rim. His lateral movement makes him an effective perimeter defender.
Greg Brown 5-foot-11 PG San Pedro (Chabot) 2009: Brown sees the floor well as a point guard and has a quick release. Per his coach, he is drawing interest from low DI programs.
Anthony Knight 6-foot-2 G El Camino (Merritt) 2012: Knight is a versatile guard who can score either by the dribble or by the perimeter. He has good size for a point guard and plays under control with good decision making.
Travonte Williams 6-foot-3 G Save (City College of San Francisco) 2011: The Alaska product is expected to make an impact for CCSF. He is an all around guard who has a versatile skill set.
Darell Pollee 6-foot-1 PG Global Youth Charter (Yuba) 2012: Pollee is quick and athletic. He takes the ball hard to the basket and is an aggressive defender.
Matt Simpkins 6-foot-9 PF Patterson (Chabot) 2008: The former John Calipari Memphis recruit has good size and strength. He is a back to the basket player. His DI eligibility requirements have expired but should be able to land at the other levels easily.
Jaycob Velasco 6-foot-7 PF Pleasant Valley (Cosumnes River) 2010: The face up power forward has good size to battle in the paint. Velasco has a good perimeter shot and passes well.
Brandon Berkovatz 6-foot-8 PF Mills (Skyline) 2012: The Mills product is a back to the basket forward. He plays tough and rebounds well. He passes and sees the floor well for an interior player.
Chris Smith 6-foot-5 Wing Center (Yuba) 2012: The Center product averaged close to 20 points last season and is a versatile scorer. Per his coach, he has 12 offers and over 20 schools interested as grades prevented him from going straight to a four year program from high school.
Darien Williams 6-foot-8 F St. John Bosco (Merritt) 2013: Williams is a versatile forward who can face up or post up. He was heavily recruited but his academics forced him to take the JUCO route. Despite that, his Merritt coach says that schools are still interested including CSU Fullerton, Portland State, UC Riverside, and Weber State.
James O'Neal 6-foot-2 G Freedom (Fresno City) 2013: O'Neal was headed for Chaminade but his standardized test scores fell short. He is a partial qualifier and plans to attend Fresno City College.
Article 347: Day 1 at the Classic
May 26, 2013
The 3rd Annual Bay Area Memorial Day Classic started pool play on Saturday at City College of San Francisco. The Elite Division featured 30 teams mostly from Northern California as seeding would be determined for bracket play on Sunday. Here are some player updates.
Spencer Rust 6-foot-9 F Monte Vista (Lakeshow Elite 17) 2014: The junior is lanky and thin but has nice length on his perimeter shot. He passes well and does not make bad decisions. Per his club coach, Rust has a 4.5 weighted GPA while Denver and several Ivy League programs have expressed interest.
Temidayo Yussuf 6-foot-7 F St Joseph (Oakland Rebels 17) 2014: Yussuf plays bigger than his height but has good bulk and can still be fairly agile. He hustles and rebounds well. Per Yussuf, he has offers from Montana State, Pacific, and UC Davis while Colorado State, CSU Northridge, Montana, Northern Colorado, Santa Clara, Weber State, and Wichita State are in contact.
Jack Gale 6-foot-5 Wing University (Bay Area Warriors 17U) 2014:
The junior has a clean perimeter shot but needs to add a dribble drive game or ability to create own shot. He needs to add some bulk as well. Per his club coach, DIII programs have been inquiring.
Frankie Ferrari 5-foot-11 PG Burlingame (Lunardis 17) 2014: The junior is a fearless scorer who is always in attack mode. He plays defense in the same manner. Per Ferrari, several low and mid DI programs have contacted him as he is transferring back to Burlingame from Riordan.
David Hobbs 6-foot-5 SF Carlmont (Golden City SF) 2013: Hobbs is a heady player who makes good decisions and displayed a nice perimeter game. The senior played aggressively and has a good frame.
John Robertson 6-foot-8 Post Laguna Creek (PHPS Renegades) 2015: The sophomore has good size, length, and athleticism. He is still raw in his all around skills but has time to develop. Robertson plans to transfer to Laguna Creek where national prospect Malik Pope can help spread the floor and increase exposure.
Troy Rike 6-foot-8 Post St Ignatius (Golden City SF) 2014: The junior displayed some nice post moves including ball fakes and a turnaround shot. His lateral footwork and athleticism can be better but he has low college level size.
Jordan Ratinho 6-foot-3 SG De La Salle (Greenline) 2016: The freshman has good size and lateral movement as he was playing the shooting guard position. He made some good inside and outside offensive moves and displayed tough defense. The DLS prospect looks promising to develop.
Leo Smith 5-foot-10 PG Oakland Tech (Lunardis 17) 2013: Smith is a scorer who can get to the basket aggressively but has a respectable perimeter shot. He plays frenetically on both ends. Per Smith, he will be going to Casper Junior College in Wyoming.
Seth Snoddy 6-foot-7 PF Lincoln (SF Rebels 17) 2014: Snoddy has a mobile and athletic body but also plays strong as a rebounder in the post. His perimeter game or post game needs more options to expand his offensive skills.
Patrick Marr 6-foot-7 PF De La Salle (Greenline) 2014: Marr will be the post anchor for next season's Spartan team. He hustles for rebounds and throws his body around. He has good size but could add to his offensive and perimeter skills.
Buster Souza 6-foot-6 F Acalanes (Lakeshow Elite 17) 2014: The junior is an undersized power forward but hustles and rebounds tenaciously. He needs to add to his offensive and perimeter skills. Per his club coach, DII schools have expressed interest.
Christian Munoz 6-foot-6 SF Cordova (PHPS Renegades) 2014: Munoz has good size and mobility at his position as he rebounds well and hustles. He has a respectable midrange game as well.
Anthony Townes 6-foot-6 SF Modesto Christian (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2015: The sophomore has good size and length for the forward position. He is active and athletic. Adding to his perimeter skills and some low post moves would help round out his skill set.
Ian Miller 6-foot-7 PF Sheldon (PHPS Elite) 2016: Miller is an interesting inside-outside player as he could score by both methods. He displayed good lateral movement and agility. The freshman looks to be a face up type of player.
The 3rd Annual Bay Area Memorial Day Classic started pool play on Saturday at City College of San Francisco. The Elite Division featured 30 teams mostly from Northern California as seeding would be determined for bracket play on Sunday. Here are some player updates.
Spencer Rust 6-foot-9 F Monte Vista (Lakeshow Elite 17) 2014: The junior is lanky and thin but has nice length on his perimeter shot. He passes well and does not make bad decisions. Per his club coach, Rust has a 4.5 weighted GPA while Denver and several Ivy League programs have expressed interest.
Temidayo Yussuf 6-foot-7 F St Joseph (Oakland Rebels 17) 2014: Yussuf plays bigger than his height but has good bulk and can still be fairly agile. He hustles and rebounds well. Per Yussuf, he has offers from Montana State, Pacific, and UC Davis while Colorado State, CSU Northridge, Montana, Northern Colorado, Santa Clara, Weber State, and Wichita State are in contact.
Jack Gale 6-foot-5 Wing University (Bay Area Warriors 17U) 2014:
The junior has a clean perimeter shot but needs to add a dribble drive game or ability to create own shot. He needs to add some bulk as well. Per his club coach, DIII programs have been inquiring.
Frankie Ferrari 5-foot-11 PG Burlingame (Lunardis 17) 2014: The junior is a fearless scorer who is always in attack mode. He plays defense in the same manner. Per Ferrari, several low and mid DI programs have contacted him as he is transferring back to Burlingame from Riordan.
David Hobbs 6-foot-5 SF Carlmont (Golden City SF) 2013: Hobbs is a heady player who makes good decisions and displayed a nice perimeter game. The senior played aggressively and has a good frame.
John Robertson 6-foot-8 Post Laguna Creek (PHPS Renegades) 2015: The sophomore has good size, length, and athleticism. He is still raw in his all around skills but has time to develop. Robertson plans to transfer to Laguna Creek where national prospect Malik Pope can help spread the floor and increase exposure.
Troy Rike 6-foot-8 Post St Ignatius (Golden City SF) 2014: The junior displayed some nice post moves including ball fakes and a turnaround shot. His lateral footwork and athleticism can be better but he has low college level size.
Jordan Ratinho 6-foot-3 SG De La Salle (Greenline) 2016: The freshman has good size and lateral movement as he was playing the shooting guard position. He made some good inside and outside offensive moves and displayed tough defense. The DLS prospect looks promising to develop.
Leo Smith 5-foot-10 PG Oakland Tech (Lunardis 17) 2013: Smith is a scorer who can get to the basket aggressively but has a respectable perimeter shot. He plays frenetically on both ends. Per Smith, he will be going to Casper Junior College in Wyoming.
Seth Snoddy 6-foot-7 PF Lincoln (SF Rebels 17) 2014: Snoddy has a mobile and athletic body but also plays strong as a rebounder in the post. His perimeter game or post game needs more options to expand his offensive skills.
Patrick Marr 6-foot-7 PF De La Salle (Greenline) 2014: Marr will be the post anchor for next season's Spartan team. He hustles for rebounds and throws his body around. He has good size but could add to his offensive and perimeter skills.
Buster Souza 6-foot-6 F Acalanes (Lakeshow Elite 17) 2014: The junior is an undersized power forward but hustles and rebounds tenaciously. He needs to add to his offensive and perimeter skills. Per his club coach, DII schools have expressed interest.
Christian Munoz 6-foot-6 SF Cordova (PHPS Renegades) 2014: Munoz has good size and mobility at his position as he rebounds well and hustles. He has a respectable midrange game as well.
Anthony Townes 6-foot-6 SF Modesto Christian (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2015: The sophomore has good size and length for the forward position. He is active and athletic. Adding to his perimeter skills and some low post moves would help round out his skill set.
Ian Miller 6-foot-7 PF Sheldon (PHPS Elite) 2016: Miller is an interesting inside-outside player as he could score by both methods. He displayed good lateral movement and agility. The freshman looks to be a face up type of player.
Article 346: CCSF player report
May 19, 2013
The 6th Annual City Championship Tournament was wrapping up pool play on Saturday at City College of San Francisco. 48 teams from Northern California participated as winners from each pool advance to bracket play on Sunday. Here are some player updates.
Cameron Graham 6-foot-4 Wing Natomas (Team Sage Truth) 2014: The junior is a consistent perimeter shooter. He plays active on defense by disrupting passing lanes and is a solid rebounder. Graham is a legit DII prospect but could develop into a low DI prospect.
Spencer Clark 6-foot-3 SF Mt Diablo (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2014: Clark is athletic and versatile in his scoring as he finishes well at the basket but can also make the perimeter shot. Per his club coach, Chico State and Portland have expressed interest.
Mo Britten 6-foot-3 Wing Del Campo (Team Sage Truth) 2014: Britten plays fundamentally well as he boxed out well for rebounds. He displayed a good back to the basket game with a solid perimeter shot. If adds some height or further his perimeter skills, he could be a low DI prospect.
Mason Washington 6-foot-2 PG Modesto Christian (Lakeshow Elite 17) 2014: The junior runs the team well with his ball control and passing. He shot the three pointer well. Cal Poly SLO and UC Irvine have expressed interest.
Alec Andrews 6-foot-3 SF Folsom (E-Time Hoops 2016) 2016: Andrews is a long, athletic wing. He attacks the rim well and had a few nice floaters. He plays smart as he helped on the weak side defense with a few blocks.
Forrest Johnson 5-foot-10 PG Bradshaw Christian (Team Sage Truth) 2014: The junior is a prototypical point guard in how he runs the offense and is team oriented in his passing. Johnson is a good ball handler and makes good decisions.
AJ John 6-foot-7 SF Maria Carrillo (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2014: Per his club coach, Cal Poly SLO and Sacramento State are close to offering.
Deandre Stallings 6-foot-4 Wing Liberty Ranch (NorCal Warriors 16s) 2015: Stallings has a very consistent perimeter shot. He needs to develop his other perimeter skills like dribbling and lateral defense. But his size and shooting are ideal at his age.
Ryan Imihoff 6-foot-5 SG Napa (Lakeshow Elite 17) 2014: Imihoff is slowly getting on the radar of college programs. He has a strong outside shot and plays strong. Chico State, Humboldt State, and Sonoma State have expressed interest. With his size and skill set, he can get greater exposure with a big summer.
Brandon McGee 6-foot-1 SG Salesian (Oakland Soldiers 15U Elite) 2016: The freshman is a pure shooter who has good range. He displays good lateral movement and is quick.
Isaiah Brooks 5-foot-10 PG Sheldon (E-Time Hoops 2016) 2016: Brooks is a Sheldon transfer. He is a good distributor and attacks the lane. He also displayed a good perimeter shot. He hustled as he won a few 50-50 loose balls.
Noah Orlik 5-foot-10 PG Montgomery (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2014: Orlik is a scoring point guard who gets to the rim aggressively but also has a good mid range game. His on ball defense is tight and harassing. Per his club coach, a few DII programs are in contact.
Cameron Johnson CG Granada (Lakeshow Elite 16) 2015: The Granada prospect is versatile in his scoring by being able to go to the rim or shoot from the perimeter. Per his coach, Denver, Northern Colorado, and St Mary's have put out feelers.
Jiday Ugbaja 6-foot-0 PG Riordan (Bay Area Warriors 17U) 2014: Ugbaja has good strength and quickness for a point guard. He dribbles well but sometimes plays out of control. Navy, Pacific, UC Riverside, and Yale have expressed interest.
Daniel Solis 5-foot-11 PG Concord (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2014: Solis is a heady point guard who runs the team well. He adds a solid perimeter shot and plays perimeter defense well. Per his club coach UC Santa Barbara and some Ivy League schools have expressed interest.
Devin Williams 5-foot-11 PG St Mary's Stockton (NorCal Warriors 16s) 2015: Williams is a versatile point guard as he is shifty in creating his own shot but can run plays for teammates as well. His jump shot has a good vertical. He handles the press well.
Chiefy Ugbaja 6-foot-3 Wing Riordan (Bay Area Warriors 17U) 2014: The junior has a different level of athleticism and quickness. He is too short to play the inside but needs to improve his perimeter skills. He hustles and tries to do anything to help the team win. Per his club coach, Yale has expressed interest.
Casey Raquemore 5-foot-10 PG Berkeley (Oakland Soldiers 15U Elite) 2016: Raquemore is a versatile point guard. He can break down his defender when going to the basket. He dribbles well with either hand and is quick. His court vision is also solid.
The 6th Annual City Championship Tournament was wrapping up pool play on Saturday at City College of San Francisco. 48 teams from Northern California participated as winners from each pool advance to bracket play on Sunday. Here are some player updates.
Cameron Graham 6-foot-4 Wing Natomas (Team Sage Truth) 2014: The junior is a consistent perimeter shooter. He plays active on defense by disrupting passing lanes and is a solid rebounder. Graham is a legit DII prospect but could develop into a low DI prospect.
Spencer Clark 6-foot-3 SF Mt Diablo (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2014: Clark is athletic and versatile in his scoring as he finishes well at the basket but can also make the perimeter shot. Per his club coach, Chico State and Portland have expressed interest.
Mo Britten 6-foot-3 Wing Del Campo (Team Sage Truth) 2014: Britten plays fundamentally well as he boxed out well for rebounds. He displayed a good back to the basket game with a solid perimeter shot. If adds some height or further his perimeter skills, he could be a low DI prospect.
Mason Washington 6-foot-2 PG Modesto Christian (Lakeshow Elite 17) 2014: The junior runs the team well with his ball control and passing. He shot the three pointer well. Cal Poly SLO and UC Irvine have expressed interest.
Alec Andrews 6-foot-3 SF Folsom (E-Time Hoops 2016) 2016: Andrews is a long, athletic wing. He attacks the rim well and had a few nice floaters. He plays smart as he helped on the weak side defense with a few blocks.
Forrest Johnson 5-foot-10 PG Bradshaw Christian (Team Sage Truth) 2014: The junior is a prototypical point guard in how he runs the offense and is team oriented in his passing. Johnson is a good ball handler and makes good decisions.
AJ John 6-foot-7 SF Maria Carrillo (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2014: Per his club coach, Cal Poly SLO and Sacramento State are close to offering.
Deandre Stallings 6-foot-4 Wing Liberty Ranch (NorCal Warriors 16s) 2015: Stallings has a very consistent perimeter shot. He needs to develop his other perimeter skills like dribbling and lateral defense. But his size and shooting are ideal at his age.
Ryan Imihoff 6-foot-5 SG Napa (Lakeshow Elite 17) 2014: Imihoff is slowly getting on the radar of college programs. He has a strong outside shot and plays strong. Chico State, Humboldt State, and Sonoma State have expressed interest. With his size and skill set, he can get greater exposure with a big summer.
Brandon McGee 6-foot-1 SG Salesian (Oakland Soldiers 15U Elite) 2016: The freshman is a pure shooter who has good range. He displays good lateral movement and is quick.
Isaiah Brooks 5-foot-10 PG Sheldon (E-Time Hoops 2016) 2016: Brooks is a Sheldon transfer. He is a good distributor and attacks the lane. He also displayed a good perimeter shot. He hustled as he won a few 50-50 loose balls.
Noah Orlik 5-foot-10 PG Montgomery (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2014: Orlik is a scoring point guard who gets to the rim aggressively but also has a good mid range game. His on ball defense is tight and harassing. Per his club coach, a few DII programs are in contact.
Cameron Johnson CG Granada (Lakeshow Elite 16) 2015: The Granada prospect is versatile in his scoring by being able to go to the rim or shoot from the perimeter. Per his coach, Denver, Northern Colorado, and St Mary's have put out feelers.
Jiday Ugbaja 6-foot-0 PG Riordan (Bay Area Warriors 17U) 2014: Ugbaja has good strength and quickness for a point guard. He dribbles well but sometimes plays out of control. Navy, Pacific, UC Riverside, and Yale have expressed interest.
Daniel Solis 5-foot-11 PG Concord (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2014: Solis is a heady point guard who runs the team well. He adds a solid perimeter shot and plays perimeter defense well. Per his club coach UC Santa Barbara and some Ivy League schools have expressed interest.
Devin Williams 5-foot-11 PG St Mary's Stockton (NorCal Warriors 16s) 2015: Williams is a versatile point guard as he is shifty in creating his own shot but can run plays for teammates as well. His jump shot has a good vertical. He handles the press well.
Chiefy Ugbaja 6-foot-3 Wing Riordan (Bay Area Warriors 17U) 2014: The junior has a different level of athleticism and quickness. He is too short to play the inside but needs to improve his perimeter skills. He hustles and tries to do anything to help the team win. Per his club coach, Yale has expressed interest.
Casey Raquemore 5-foot-10 PG Berkeley (Oakland Soldiers 15U Elite) 2016: Raquemore is a versatile point guard. He can break down his defender when going to the basket. He dribbles well with either hand and is quick. His court vision is also solid.
Article 345: Showcase: Final Day
April 29, 2013
The 2nd Nor Cal Spring Showcase ended Sunday afternoon at City College of San Francisco. Over 50 college coaches from all division levels including the Pac-12 and WCC conferences. Here are the best players from the concluding session.
Terrence White 6-foot-1 PG Inderkum (Team Sage Truth) 2014: The basketball and football double threat plays basketball like a football player in that he goes fast and aggressive. The point guard dribbles fine with either hand and attacks the basket. White rebounds physically and gets close on his perimeter defense. The defensive back and wide receiver has been getting football interest from Missouri, San Diego State, and San Jose State. Basketball has been slower but he states that St. Mary's has been in contact.
Jordan Ford 6-foot-0 PG Folsom (PHPS Renegades) 2016: Only a freshman, Ford is thin but has time to bulk up. He is agile and handles pressure well. In a three minute stretch, he showed his scoring versatility with a midrange jumper, three point jumper, and a drive to the basket.
Vasilije Saraba 6-foot-4 W Del Campo (YBA Black) 2014: Saraba does a little of everything. He has a slow release but was accurate in his perimeter form. He made good passes and has enough size to help with rebounding. He is versatile enough to play inside or outside.
Leandro Amador 6-foot-7 PF Modesto Christian (Lakeshow Black 17) 2014: Amador is a high energy player who runs the floor well. He gets after rebounds and is aggressive in his play. He displayed some nice post moves as well.
Keith Hunter 6-foot-2 SG Oakland (Bay Area Warriors 17U) 2014: Hunter has good strength and athleticism for his position. His offense is both perimeter shots and drives to the basket. He also plays solid perimeter defense.
AJ John 6-foot-7 SF Maria Carrillo (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2014: John has a good perimeter shot. He has good size and the physical to be a college level forward. He needs to throw his size around more. Colgate and Sacramento State have expressed interest.
Mahki Williams 6-foot-3 PG Natomas (Play Hard Play Smart White) 2017: The eighth grader is expecting to go to Natomas. Williams has good size for a freshman to be. For his age, he displayed good dribbling and passing already.
Ben Kone 6-foot-7 PF Salesian (Oakland Soldiers 16U Elite) 2016: The freshman is expected to start at Salesian next year. Kone has both a face up and back to basket game. He has a soft touch on the outside but can finish in the paint as well. His size is used effectively for rebounding but he runs the floor well.
Jamaryion Simmons 6-foot-4 SF Independent Study (Team Sage Truth) 2014: Simmons has bulk but needs to trim down. He is an aggressive rebounder and has a nice perimeter touch. He showed flashes of talent but will need to develop his body and perimeter game.
Jared Nodar 6-foot-5 W St Mary's Berkeley (Bay Area Warriors 17U) 2014: The junior is versatile as he can guard both inside and outside. He makes good decisions and can shoot from the perimeter.
Gabe Bealer 6-foot-5 W Antelope (Play Hard Play Smart Elite) 2013: The senior has versatile skills as he looked comfortable inside and outside. Bealer handles the ball well and had a nice turnaround jump shot.
Devin Asiasi 6-foot-4 PF De La Salle (Oakland Soldiers 15U Elite) 2016: The freshman was on varsity at De La Salle where he also played football. Asiasi has a big frame to play the post to rebound and guard opposing bigs. He has a respectable midrange shot.
Seth Snoddy 6-foot-7 PF Lincoln (SF Rebels 17U) 2014: The junior ran the floor well, rebounds physically, and attacked on his block shots. Snoddy seems to be a defensive spark plug and could be a college level power forward with some additional height. His offensive game has room for growth though.
Jordan Roberson 6-foot-4 SG Folsom (PHPS Renegades) 2015: Roberson has a good wingspan but needs to bulk up. When left open on the perimeter, he has an accurate shot. He stepped into a couple nice long range arching three point makes.
Jalen Mcferren 5-foot-10 PG Castro Valley (Oakland Rebels 17) 2014: The senior point guard is quick and can push the ball up court. He has a good change of pace to setup his passes. He hit a few perimeter shots to mix his game up.
Jamir Andrews 6-foot-2 SG Dublin (Nevada CC Wolverines Elite 17U Black) 2013: Andrews plays in attack mode on offense. He likes his pull up three point shot which was consistent. He has a nice turnaround jump shot and has the bulk to create space on his dribble drives. He is undersized as a shooting guard but can score in bunches.
Damari Milstead 5-foot-11 PG Moreau Catholic (Oakland Soldiers 15U Elite) 2017: The eighth grader will be at Moreau Catholic next season. He has good length and reach to disrupt passing lanes. He plays heady and plays more mature than his age.
Adilio Da Silveira 6-foot-7 F Del Oro (YBA Black) 2014: This junior has a sturdy body to battle for rebounds. Da Silveira looked comfortable with his dribble drive game and perimeter shot. If he refines his perimeter skills and lateral movement, he can be a college wing player.
Jose Flores 6-foot-3 SG St. Patrick St. Vincent (Play Hard Play Smart Elite) 2014: Flores has a good frame and quickness to play the shooting guard role. He is comfortable taking the ball to the basket. He is not afraid of contact to go after rebounds but has the lateral movement to guard the outside.
Connor Peterson 6-foot-2 PG Mitty (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2014: The Mitty guard plays with a high motor as he pushes the ball up and is not afraid to attack. His dribble drive creates passing opportunities. Pacific, Portland, Sacramento State, San Francisco, UC Santa Barbara, and Weber State have interest.
Jiday Ugbaja 6-foot-0 PG Riordan (Bay Area Warriors 17U) 2014: The junior plays in high gear as he pushes the ball and attacks on both ends. His quickness and bulk are good for a point guard. Navy and Pacific have interest.
Nikil Peters 6-foot-3 W De La Salle (Oakland Soldiers 16U Elite) 2016: The De La Salle product goes to the basket hard. He has a sturdy but agile body for his position that allows him to be a versatile defender.
Casey Raquemore 5-foot-10 PG Berkeley (Oakland Soldiers 15U Elite) 2016: The freshman has good point guard skills with his quickness, dribbling, and passing. He moves his feet well on the perimeter defense.
The 2nd Nor Cal Spring Showcase ended Sunday afternoon at City College of San Francisco. Over 50 college coaches from all division levels including the Pac-12 and WCC conferences. Here are the best players from the concluding session.
Terrence White 6-foot-1 PG Inderkum (Team Sage Truth) 2014: The basketball and football double threat plays basketball like a football player in that he goes fast and aggressive. The point guard dribbles fine with either hand and attacks the basket. White rebounds physically and gets close on his perimeter defense. The defensive back and wide receiver has been getting football interest from Missouri, San Diego State, and San Jose State. Basketball has been slower but he states that St. Mary's has been in contact.
Jordan Ford 6-foot-0 PG Folsom (PHPS Renegades) 2016: Only a freshman, Ford is thin but has time to bulk up. He is agile and handles pressure well. In a three minute stretch, he showed his scoring versatility with a midrange jumper, three point jumper, and a drive to the basket.
Vasilije Saraba 6-foot-4 W Del Campo (YBA Black) 2014: Saraba does a little of everything. He has a slow release but was accurate in his perimeter form. He made good passes and has enough size to help with rebounding. He is versatile enough to play inside or outside.
Leandro Amador 6-foot-7 PF Modesto Christian (Lakeshow Black 17) 2014: Amador is a high energy player who runs the floor well. He gets after rebounds and is aggressive in his play. He displayed some nice post moves as well.
Keith Hunter 6-foot-2 SG Oakland (Bay Area Warriors 17U) 2014: Hunter has good strength and athleticism for his position. His offense is both perimeter shots and drives to the basket. He also plays solid perimeter defense.
AJ John 6-foot-7 SF Maria Carrillo (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2014: John has a good perimeter shot. He has good size and the physical to be a college level forward. He needs to throw his size around more. Colgate and Sacramento State have expressed interest.
Mahki Williams 6-foot-3 PG Natomas (Play Hard Play Smart White) 2017: The eighth grader is expecting to go to Natomas. Williams has good size for a freshman to be. For his age, he displayed good dribbling and passing already.
Ben Kone 6-foot-7 PF Salesian (Oakland Soldiers 16U Elite) 2016: The freshman is expected to start at Salesian next year. Kone has both a face up and back to basket game. He has a soft touch on the outside but can finish in the paint as well. His size is used effectively for rebounding but he runs the floor well.
Jamaryion Simmons 6-foot-4 SF Independent Study (Team Sage Truth) 2014: Simmons has bulk but needs to trim down. He is an aggressive rebounder and has a nice perimeter touch. He showed flashes of talent but will need to develop his body and perimeter game.
Jared Nodar 6-foot-5 W St Mary's Berkeley (Bay Area Warriors 17U) 2014: The junior is versatile as he can guard both inside and outside. He makes good decisions and can shoot from the perimeter.
Gabe Bealer 6-foot-5 W Antelope (Play Hard Play Smart Elite) 2013: The senior has versatile skills as he looked comfortable inside and outside. Bealer handles the ball well and had a nice turnaround jump shot.
Devin Asiasi 6-foot-4 PF De La Salle (Oakland Soldiers 15U Elite) 2016: The freshman was on varsity at De La Salle where he also played football. Asiasi has a big frame to play the post to rebound and guard opposing bigs. He has a respectable midrange shot.
Seth Snoddy 6-foot-7 PF Lincoln (SF Rebels 17U) 2014: The junior ran the floor well, rebounds physically, and attacked on his block shots. Snoddy seems to be a defensive spark plug and could be a college level power forward with some additional height. His offensive game has room for growth though.
Jordan Roberson 6-foot-4 SG Folsom (PHPS Renegades) 2015: Roberson has a good wingspan but needs to bulk up. When left open on the perimeter, he has an accurate shot. He stepped into a couple nice long range arching three point makes.
Jalen Mcferren 5-foot-10 PG Castro Valley (Oakland Rebels 17) 2014: The senior point guard is quick and can push the ball up court. He has a good change of pace to setup his passes. He hit a few perimeter shots to mix his game up.
Jamir Andrews 6-foot-2 SG Dublin (Nevada CC Wolverines Elite 17U Black) 2013: Andrews plays in attack mode on offense. He likes his pull up three point shot which was consistent. He has a nice turnaround jump shot and has the bulk to create space on his dribble drives. He is undersized as a shooting guard but can score in bunches.
Damari Milstead 5-foot-11 PG Moreau Catholic (Oakland Soldiers 15U Elite) 2017: The eighth grader will be at Moreau Catholic next season. He has good length and reach to disrupt passing lanes. He plays heady and plays more mature than his age.
Adilio Da Silveira 6-foot-7 F Del Oro (YBA Black) 2014: This junior has a sturdy body to battle for rebounds. Da Silveira looked comfortable with his dribble drive game and perimeter shot. If he refines his perimeter skills and lateral movement, he can be a college wing player.
Jose Flores 6-foot-3 SG St. Patrick St. Vincent (Play Hard Play Smart Elite) 2014: Flores has a good frame and quickness to play the shooting guard role. He is comfortable taking the ball to the basket. He is not afraid of contact to go after rebounds but has the lateral movement to guard the outside.
Connor Peterson 6-foot-2 PG Mitty (Oakland Soldiers 17 Blue) 2014: The Mitty guard plays with a high motor as he pushes the ball up and is not afraid to attack. His dribble drive creates passing opportunities. Pacific, Portland, Sacramento State, San Francisco, UC Santa Barbara, and Weber State have interest.
Jiday Ugbaja 6-foot-0 PG Riordan (Bay Area Warriors 17U) 2014: The junior plays in high gear as he pushes the ball and attacks on both ends. His quickness and bulk are good for a point guard. Navy and Pacific have interest.
Nikil Peters 6-foot-3 W De La Salle (Oakland Soldiers 16U Elite) 2016: The De La Salle product goes to the basket hard. He has a sturdy but agile body for his position that allows him to be a versatile defender.
Casey Raquemore 5-foot-10 PG Berkeley (Oakland Soldiers 15U Elite) 2016: The freshman has good point guard skills with his quickness, dribbling, and passing. He moves his feet well on the perimeter defense.
Monday, October 21, 2013
Article 344: Spring Showcase report
April 27, 2013
The 2nd Nor Cal Spring Showcase kicked off Friday evening at City College of San Francisco. As this is Northern California's only NCAA certified event, several college coaches were in attendance with more expected to arrive over the weekend. Here are some players who stood out from the opening evening session.
Kendall Mcintosh 6-foot-6 PF Freedom (Lakeshow 16 Black) 2015: Freedom will have another post player to make them quite dominant in the paint with Mcintosh. The sophomore is long and athletic. He jumps well and has a nose for the ball. He is aggressive with his post offense but also is comfortable in kicking the ball out to open perimeter shooters.
Sherron Bradford 5-foot-11 PG Granite Bay (E-Time Hoops) 2013: Bradford plays like a prototypical point guard who looks to distribute and direct a team. He can create opportunities for teammates off his dribble. The nephew of Sacramento Kings Assistant Coach Bobby Jackson, Bradford has quick hands and stays in front on perimeter defense.
Andre Green 6-foot-0 SG Bear Creek (BFS Blackout 16U) 2015: Green had a quick release on his shot as he converted from the perimeter. As a sophomore, he has a good frame and projects to grow into an ideal shooting guard size.
Kiree Hutchings 6-foot-2 PG Santa Cruz (West Valley Woodie Hoops) 2015: The sophomore directs his team and moves without the ball well. He is a good defender as he helps on weak side defense. He plays with intangibles like hustle and encouraging his teammates that will not show up in the stat sheet.
Matt Bejsovec 6-foot-3 Wing Ponderosa (Cal Elite 16U) 2015: Ponderosa had a season to forget but Bejsovec should help next season. The sophomore plays heady and does a lot of things well. The wing moves well without the ball, positions well for rebounds, has a nose for the ball on the defense, and was aggressive with his offense. He is a versatile player who should help his varsity team next year.
Josaf Zamora 6-foot-2 SG Newark Memorial (Oakland Kings) 2013: Zamora is an athletic guard who is a versatile scorer. 'Jo Jo' plays above the rim with ease. He defends the perimeter aggressively and tenaciously.
Aiden Naughton 5-foot-11 SG Granite Bay (E-Time Hoops) 2014: This junior is undersized at the guard position but physically tough. However, he has a consistent perimeter game and is fearless going to the rim.
Kevin Dent 6-foot-3 SG West Campus (Cal Elite 16U) 2015: Dent can score both inside and outside. He has good length to disrupt passing lanes and to guard on the perimeter. The sophomore needs to refine his skills further but has the prototypical shooting guard frame.
Quinn Ryan 6-foot-6 PF Bear Creek (BFS Blackout 16U) 2015: The sophomore is a versatile forward. He has good form on his midrange game but also displayed a smooth turnaround jumper. He has adequate size to rebound and play the post. Ryan is not overly quick but moved his feet well. He probably is suited to be a power forward if he can add to his height. Otherwise, his perimeter game and ball handling will need to expand to be a wing player.
Charlie Duysen 6-foot-3 SF Marin Catholic (Lakeshow 16 Black) 2015: Duysen plays deliberate and methodical. He is in control with his passing and shot selection. He seems to let the game come to him and plays smart.
Donald Mims 6-foot-10 C Center (Cal Elite 17U) 2013: The Center High prospect is long and lean but is athletic. He dunked with ease and was disruptive in altering shots in the paint. Mims needs to add bulk but is an intriguing project as he has the height and wingspan to play the post in college.
Michael Sullivan 6-foot-0 PG Redwood (Lakeshow 16 Black) 2016: The freshman is a traditional point guard who looks to distribute and pass first. He plays defense in a feisty manner. Sullivan did hit a few perimeter shots as well.
Benjamin Bell 6-foot-3 PF Shasta (Cal Elite 16U) 2016: The freshman has a big frame and good size but is still fairly agile in his lateral movement. He positions well for his rebounds. Bell can grow and develop into a nice back to the basket power forward prospect.
The 2nd Nor Cal Spring Showcase kicked off Friday evening at City College of San Francisco. As this is Northern California's only NCAA certified event, several college coaches were in attendance with more expected to arrive over the weekend. Here are some players who stood out from the opening evening session.
Kendall Mcintosh 6-foot-6 PF Freedom (Lakeshow 16 Black) 2015: Freedom will have another post player to make them quite dominant in the paint with Mcintosh. The sophomore is long and athletic. He jumps well and has a nose for the ball. He is aggressive with his post offense but also is comfortable in kicking the ball out to open perimeter shooters.
Sherron Bradford 5-foot-11 PG Granite Bay (E-Time Hoops) 2013: Bradford plays like a prototypical point guard who looks to distribute and direct a team. He can create opportunities for teammates off his dribble. The nephew of Sacramento Kings Assistant Coach Bobby Jackson, Bradford has quick hands and stays in front on perimeter defense.
Andre Green 6-foot-0 SG Bear Creek (BFS Blackout 16U) 2015: Green had a quick release on his shot as he converted from the perimeter. As a sophomore, he has a good frame and projects to grow into an ideal shooting guard size.
Kiree Hutchings 6-foot-2 PG Santa Cruz (West Valley Woodie Hoops) 2015: The sophomore directs his team and moves without the ball well. He is a good defender as he helps on weak side defense. He plays with intangibles like hustle and encouraging his teammates that will not show up in the stat sheet.
Matt Bejsovec 6-foot-3 Wing Ponderosa (Cal Elite 16U) 2015: Ponderosa had a season to forget but Bejsovec should help next season. The sophomore plays heady and does a lot of things well. The wing moves well without the ball, positions well for rebounds, has a nose for the ball on the defense, and was aggressive with his offense. He is a versatile player who should help his varsity team next year.
Josaf Zamora 6-foot-2 SG Newark Memorial (Oakland Kings) 2013: Zamora is an athletic guard who is a versatile scorer. 'Jo Jo' plays above the rim with ease. He defends the perimeter aggressively and tenaciously.
Aiden Naughton 5-foot-11 SG Granite Bay (E-Time Hoops) 2014: This junior is undersized at the guard position but physically tough. However, he has a consistent perimeter game and is fearless going to the rim.
Kevin Dent 6-foot-3 SG West Campus (Cal Elite 16U) 2015: Dent can score both inside and outside. He has good length to disrupt passing lanes and to guard on the perimeter. The sophomore needs to refine his skills further but has the prototypical shooting guard frame.
Quinn Ryan 6-foot-6 PF Bear Creek (BFS Blackout 16U) 2015: The sophomore is a versatile forward. He has good form on his midrange game but also displayed a smooth turnaround jumper. He has adequate size to rebound and play the post. Ryan is not overly quick but moved his feet well. He probably is suited to be a power forward if he can add to his height. Otherwise, his perimeter game and ball handling will need to expand to be a wing player.
Charlie Duysen 6-foot-3 SF Marin Catholic (Lakeshow 16 Black) 2015: Duysen plays deliberate and methodical. He is in control with his passing and shot selection. He seems to let the game come to him and plays smart.
Donald Mims 6-foot-10 C Center (Cal Elite 17U) 2013: The Center High prospect is long and lean but is athletic. He dunked with ease and was disruptive in altering shots in the paint. Mims needs to add bulk but is an intriguing project as he has the height and wingspan to play the post in college.
Michael Sullivan 6-foot-0 PG Redwood (Lakeshow 16 Black) 2016: The freshman is a traditional point guard who looks to distribute and pass first. He plays defense in a feisty manner. Sullivan did hit a few perimeter shots as well.
Benjamin Bell 6-foot-3 PF Shasta (Cal Elite 16U) 2016: The freshman has a big frame and good size but is still fairly agile in his lateral movement. He positions well for his rebounds. Bell can grow and develop into a nice back to the basket power forward prospect.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Article 343: Clayton stepping up
January 1, 2013
The new season has been tough for Castro Valley as they have started 7-5 but with hard fought losses to top tier Northern California teams including Newark Memorial, Deer Valley, and Heritage. But things should be looking up for the Trojans as the play of junior wing, Derrick Clayton, has been solid.
As a sophomore, Clayton helped his Trojans to a 27-6 mark and semifinal appearances in both the North Coast Section and Northern California playoffs. As Castro Valley transitions from the Hayward Area Athletic League to the West Alameda County League, the team's main challenger will still be Bishop O'Dowd. Clayton has been averaging 18.7 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists this season.
With new head coach Senque Carey in tow, Clayton believes the team and his individual game have improved with the help of the former Fresno State assistant coach.
"Coach Carey has improved our team's togetherness and work ethic as individuals and as a team all together," said Clayton. "These new attributes show well on the court as we lose in close battles to top ranked teams in the Bay Area. With a bit more work, we should stop losing consecutive close and hard games."
At 6-foot-5 and 184 pounds, Clayton reminds many Castro Valley fans of alum and current Marquette Golden Eagle, Juan Anderson. Both are athletic, long, and versatile. Clayton still follows Anderson's progress at the college level.
"From watching Juan at the collegiate level, I've learned that things that may have worked in high school will not always work in college," continued Clayton. "You have to take your game to the next level, especially at the high D1 level that he is playing at. With knowing that, I'm trying to step my game up to the next level now, every chance I get."
To no surprise, the No. 9 ranked 2014 prospect according to NorCalPreps.com has been getting varying levels of college interest. Clayton has offers from San Francisco, San Jose State, UC Davis, and Utah State. He claims high interest from Portland State, Sacramento State, Weber State, and UC Santa Barbara while regular interest from BYU, Denver, Missouri State, Santa Clara, and Texas A&M.
"Schools that stand out right now to me are of course the schools that have offered me," says Clayton. "I realize and appreciate that they were the first schools to take interest in me and when it does come time to make my decision I will take that into consideration."
As for the schools with interest in him, Clayton says, "Other than the schools that have offered me, I am loving different things about the other schools that have taken interest in me. With Santa Barbara, I love their coaching staff and people that I will be surrounding myself with on a daily basis. With Weber State, I love that they are so active in my life - always calling, texting, and visiting."
As league play starts, watch for Clayton to lead his Trojans in battle in Castro Valley, Calif.
The new season has been tough for Castro Valley as they have started 7-5 but with hard fought losses to top tier Northern California teams including Newark Memorial, Deer Valley, and Heritage. But things should be looking up for the Trojans as the play of junior wing, Derrick Clayton, has been solid.
As a sophomore, Clayton helped his Trojans to a 27-6 mark and semifinal appearances in both the North Coast Section and Northern California playoffs. As Castro Valley transitions from the Hayward Area Athletic League to the West Alameda County League, the team's main challenger will still be Bishop O'Dowd. Clayton has been averaging 18.7 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists this season.
With new head coach Senque Carey in tow, Clayton believes the team and his individual game have improved with the help of the former Fresno State assistant coach.
"Coach Carey has improved our team's togetherness and work ethic as individuals and as a team all together," said Clayton. "These new attributes show well on the court as we lose in close battles to top ranked teams in the Bay Area. With a bit more work, we should stop losing consecutive close and hard games."
At 6-foot-5 and 184 pounds, Clayton reminds many Castro Valley fans of alum and current Marquette Golden Eagle, Juan Anderson. Both are athletic, long, and versatile. Clayton still follows Anderson's progress at the college level.
"From watching Juan at the collegiate level, I've learned that things that may have worked in high school will not always work in college," continued Clayton. "You have to take your game to the next level, especially at the high D1 level that he is playing at. With knowing that, I'm trying to step my game up to the next level now, every chance I get."
To no surprise, the No. 9 ranked 2014 prospect according to NorCalPreps.com has been getting varying levels of college interest. Clayton has offers from San Francisco, San Jose State, UC Davis, and Utah State. He claims high interest from Portland State, Sacramento State, Weber State, and UC Santa Barbara while regular interest from BYU, Denver, Missouri State, Santa Clara, and Texas A&M.
"Schools that stand out right now to me are of course the schools that have offered me," says Clayton. "I realize and appreciate that they were the first schools to take interest in me and when it does come time to make my decision I will take that into consideration."
As for the schools with interest in him, Clayton says, "Other than the schools that have offered me, I am loving different things about the other schools that have taken interest in me. With Santa Barbara, I love their coaching staff and people that I will be surrounding myself with on a daily basis. With Weber State, I love that they are so active in my life - always calling, texting, and visiting."
As league play starts, watch for Clayton to lead his Trojans in battle in Castro Valley, Calif.
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