coach and the recruit part 2

Names and places have been changed to protect anyone who thinks this might hit too close to home…but these examples are based on true events from the past few years. These are, obviously, not the real names of these coaches, players or schools.

If you haven’t read part 1 of this series click here to start at the beginning

Part 2: Rubbing Elbows

Assistant Coach Steve McKite arrives at Full Court Elite Academy at 9 am on a Thursday morning, wearing his new Eastbury College polo shirt and color coordinated Nike shoes.

Calling it an ‘Academy’ is generous. Steve found the address of the school online and drove there after finally getting it into his GPS, but where it took him was a tiny building with a small sign on it and locked doors. Calling the coach, he was the directed to drive a couple of miles away to an old high school gym which looked like it was built just after gargoyles went out of fashion. Finally walking into the gym, he sees seven folding chairs set up beside the court and a short, stocky man is setting up two more.

It looks like McKite won’t be the only college coach in the gym today.

Three players walk into the gym from a door on the far side and one of them is 6’8″ Luka Felix, who already looks like a college power forward, with big shoulders and and a lanky build. Looking like a prototypical European style big man (and much closer to 6’10”), he drops in a couple of layups before moving out to the perimeter and drains a three. His release is effortless and near perfect – at least while he’s not being guarded, in an empty gym.

The man setting up folding chairs sidles over to McKite and introduces himself as Darius Hager, the head coach and the man who Steve talked to in order to set up this visit.

“Nice, huh?” asks Hager, waving his hand in a broad sweep, indicating Felix, who drains another three, barely touching the net.

“He passes the look test, that’s for sure,” replies McKite.

One of the other players looks like an African center, about 6’8″, but he’s not shooting threes – he seems to be tying and untying his shoes continuously, trying to get some perfect configuration.

Rebounding for Felix is a wing player who looks to be about 6’5″ and also has the build of a college player. McKite knows the deal Hager is trying – get coaches to come see Felix, and add in the other two players hoping to get interest.

Well‘, thinks McKite, ‘I do need players.

Two more coaches walk into the gym, one from conference rival Delhurst University, and another from Halverson College. McKite knows the Halverson coach and introduces himself to the Delhurst assistant. They make some small talk, laughing a bit about shared experiences across the country. The Delhurst coach tells McKite he used to coach at Eastbury, too, about ten years ago.

“You gotta try the little rib joint on Seventh Street, if it’s still there,” he tells Steve, “that was my spot, after every game.”

Steve is about to thank him when his heart sinks a little; another coach walks in, and this time it’s trouble.

Alexander Lambrau, an assistant coach at Smoak University, has arrived. Wearing a dark blue T-Shirt emblazoned with ‘Smoak U’ and a much smaller ‘Final Four’ logo underneath, he’s smiling widely, stretches his hand out and meets Hager in a handshake mid-stride, like he’s meeting an old drinking buddy from his college days.

“Am I too late, coach?” Lambrau asks loudly, his voice ringing off the walls of the tiny gym.

Smoak is by all definitions a high major college. They just ended their season in the Final Four this year, and two of their starters left early to the NBA in the draft only a few weeks ago. It’s no secret their boosters have deep pockets; if Smoak thinks Felix is the right guy for their team, there’s no chance McKite is going to be able to get him. He already knows Hagar wants a payoff; if it comes to that, Smoak is going to write a check and make it happen. The only thing that could stop them is another high major swooping in and starting some type of undercover bidding war.

Of course, that’s all dependent on whether Felix is really worth their time. Smoak can get most players without dropping a dime; they would only slide money for players who were really worth it. Most aren’t.

Lambrau shakes everyone’s hands, cracks jokes with ease and drops himself into a folding chair. Suddenly the morning events have gone from a quiet workout to the Smoak University show, where the players are going to try to impress one of the biggest schools in the country.

The workout gets under way, and with only three players it’s a mixture of drills, twenty-one and limited open run. Felix runs the floor well and has great hands, but the African player – Ufuoma Amadi – doesn’t have great hands, but he is a beast in the paint. He fumbles passes, loses the ball when attempting a two-handed dunk, but he is a powerfully built athlete. The wing player runs like a college wing but really just feeds the ball to the other two on drills.

As they finish up, McKite waits patiently as Lambrau talks with Felix and then moves to a corner to talk with Hagar. McKite takes the opportunity to get in a word.

“Hey, Luka, I’m Coach McKite, from Eastbury College. Do you remember talking with me last week?”

“Um, yeah” replies Felix, nonchalantly glancing around the gym.

“I like your game a lot…I know you can play. But I’m going to ask, is Smoak actively recruiting you?”

“Don’t know,” Felix mutters, “they never came before. Coach said I have a good jump shot.”

“I guess you saw them in the NCAAs this year, right?”

“Yeah.”

“Well,” says McKite, “I’m not going to jump in here but if Smoak decides they want to slow play you, we wouldn’t do that. Just letting you know. I’m asking you to just keep us in mind.”

“Okay,” replies Felix, and McKite shakes his hand and walks over to the other two players and introduces himself. The wing player is named Jeremy Hoyle.

“Hold up,” says McKite, “didn’t I see you play some AAU last week? In Maryland, I think? I tried to call your phone but your aunt said you weren’t home.”

“Ohhh” says Hoyle, “yeah, she said some coach called but she didn’t know who it was. I thought it was Coach Hagar.” Hoyle explains that he doesn’t play for Hagar but he might this year. McKite gets his mobile number so he can text him later. Then he remembers he forgot to get Felix’s mobile number, but now Felix is talking with the other coaches. He turns to Amadi.

“So what about you?” he asks, “big man like you must have a couple of colleges who have reached out? Anyone?”

“No, coach,” replies Amadi, but then, his stoic face suddenly breaks into a huge grin, “except you, coach!”

McKite laughes. “Yeah, well, yeah, I guess so! We’re talking right now!”

McKite thinks for a second, then asks “what do you think you need to work on to play the post in college?”

Amadi turns the quesition over in his mind for a beat, then responds, “I need to be able to score better. I can defend my man but my scoring is not there yet.”

“Okay. Good, good. Yeah, you need to work on your hands – you should be able to catch the ball, and once you have it in the post, never let anyone get it out of your hands.”

There is a slight pause and McKite can hear the other coaches approaching, having finished talking with Felix. “Okay. Do you have a mobile number? I want to talk to you some more, too, if you’re interested.”

Amadi gives coach a number and then McKite tries to catch back up with Felix, but Hagar is back. Lambrau is nowhere to be seen.

“Let’s talk, coach,” says Hagar.

They walk over into an alcove and Hagar leans against the wall. “What do you think? Are you guys going to offer Luka? He’d be a big time add to your program. Turn things around in a hurry.”

“Do we even have a chance?” asks McKite, “Smoak is going to get him if they want him.”

“Not if I tell him to go with you,” replies Hagar.

“Okay, what would convince him to go with us?”

Hagar glances around the corner to make sure the other coaches are still out of earshot.

“$20,000”.

“What?!? 20 grand?” McKite snaps, “he’s not worth that kind of money, even if we had it.”

“Smoak thinks he is.”

“Don’t bullshit me, coach. If Smoak had already offered you that money we wouldn’t be having this conversation.”

Hagar steps away from the wall and holds up both hands in mock defeat. “Look, I’m just saying there’s a way to get him, and someone is going to get him. You guys want to win, you can get him.”

McKite suddenly has a wild thought dash through his mind: what if Smoak isn’t interested in Felix at all, and Hagar is using their presence to demand money from the lower colleges? It’s too stupid to work that way, he thinks. Why would Lambrau even bother? Would they split the money? No, it seems too stupid. Surely Smoak knows his school doesn’t have money to pay for players. Nothing about this conversation makes McKite feel very good.

“Look, coach,” he tells Hagar, “we are interested in Luka. We would offer him right now. We would take him. But we can’t pay for players. We just don’t have the money.”

Hagar looks at McKite like there’s no chance that McKite is telling the truth. “Well, let’s just say this. It’s out there. You have my info. He’s not committed. He’s available. You guys tell me what you can do for his school.”

You mean you and your school‘, thinks McKite.

Back in his car, navigating back through corn fields and rural back roads, McKite calls Lonnie Maxwell, his head coach.

“What did you think?” asks Maxwell.

“He’s a legit big man. Probably too good for us. I would want to see him play against some elite bigs. I need to see him in AAU or during the high school season. But my thoughts are we wouldn’t be able to get him. He’s too good.”

“Did you want to offer?”

“I want to offer. But his coach wants money.”

“Damn it. Of course he does.”

“I know. And Smoak was there looking at him. I don’t think we can get in. But there is another kid there – an African kid – he’s a project but I think he’s might be a Division I big man. Maybe not right away, though.”

“Smoak…?” Maxwell trails off. “How much did coach want?”

“20 grand.”

“Oh, no freaking way. No way in Hell…none. I just wanted to know…I wish I hadn’t asked. If I ask that again, don’t tell me.”

McKite hangs up and looks back out onto the road. He’s about 15 minutes from the highway, where he needs to try and make it to the next state in an attempt to catch some AAU games, including watching Marquise Davids, a guard who he’s spoken to and watched but still isn’t their priority player.

As he turns onto the road to merge into the highway, he sees a sign which reads “Thanks for visiting Ardorville! Come back soon!”.

How does a tiny made up school in a town with a single Taco Bell as their only restaurant have three college level players on their team, anyway?‘ he wonders.

TO BE CONTINUED

Marcus Shockley is the creator, along with a band of talented (but possibly misguided) misfits, of BasketballElite.com, the Southeast Summer Showcase and has scouted and written about basketball for longer than any person should openly admit. You can follow his rantings on sports, life and acceptable flavors of ice cream on Twitter @m_shockley

Phenom 150 Fall 2013 Session 1 Winston-Salem

By Marcus Shockley

Notes from the Fall Phenom 150, Session 1, held in Winston-Salem, NC on October 6, 2013. With approximately 180 players in attendance, it’s extremely hard to see every good player, but here are some players who stood out to me and my notes on them from this event. I did note that a few teams were playing extremely hard, getting after it in a way that I normally would see in high profile elite AAU.

Emmett Tilley (G, 6’2″, 2016) Northern Durham HS (NC) I started tracking Tilley last year, and I liked his basic skill set. However, he’s become a serious collegiate prospect since then, adding weight and quickness. He often just looked a step ahead of the other players on the floor. His look ahead passing is elite, he has a very quick first step, can finish with contact or hit the mid range jumper. He has a good build and will continue to add strength over the next 3 years. Division I colleges should actively getting involved with him now. We had added Tilley to our scouting database and subscribing colleges can read our full scouting reports on his progress here. Tilley plays AAU with the Garner Road Bulldogs.

C.J. Bryce (SF, 6’5, 2015) One of, if not the most explosive athlete in the gym today. Putback timing is his calling card, and timing is something that translates to every level of basketball. Easily gets above the rim, great touch on the ball, can finesse the ball over players on the move without even hinting at a charge. Great bounce and agility. Colleges should be actively recruiting him.

Clay Mounce (SG/SF, 6’4, 2016) Mt. Airy HS (NC) Solid athlete with good bounce and quick hands. I really liked what I saw from Mounce and I think he has solid potential as a collegiate prospect. Has good size and length – will need to continue to add strength but is active off of the ball and really makes an impact. I will need to see more during the high school season but I already see him as a player that colleges should be definitely watching and scouting.

Derek McKnight (PG, 6’2″, 2015) Gaston Day (NC) One of the quickest crossovers I’ve seen all summer. What I like about McKnight’s game is how confidently he understands what he wants to do when he gets the ball. He never looks like he has to ponder over what move to make – his attacks look almost choreographed. One thing I rarely see from young players is the understanding that in basketball, there is a chess match at work – if your defender sags, you shoot over him. If he plays you close, you put the ball on the floor and try to push past him. McKnight always looks like he sees what the defense does and instantly reacts with the counter punch.

James Tillman (SF, 6’4, 2014) Kings Mountain HS (NC) Tillman is a high motor, explosive player who showed he’s been working on his outside shot as well. Tillman has already proven during his high school career that he is a banger who can finish with contact, but over the past year he’s shown a serious first step and and ability to finish above the rim. Makes excellent passes into the post as well. Add in the aforementioned shooting and motor and you can see why more and more colleges are making the trip to the his school on the NC/SC border to check him out.

Christian Adams (G, 6’4, ’15) Calvary Baptist (NC) One of the more underrated workers in the region, Adams goes full speed and has great patience, great size for his position. Strong, can handle the ball at the point, play off the ball at the 2-guard and even can can slide down to the 3 if needed. His strengths are his work ethic, decision making, ballhandling, passing, shooting touch and quick hands.

Zach Boggs (SG, 6’1″, 2016) Boggs has bulked up quite a bit and plays hard, non-stop. One of the complaints about showcase events that I always hear is how ‘nobody will pass the ball’, but then I see guys like Boggs, who are playing off of the ball, and yet find ways to be involved on almost every play. His play shows that conditioning, motor and awareness matter. Plays tough but under control. Can finish with contact.

Cory Hanes (SF, 6’5″, 2015) Hanes is incredibly strong, has great hands and loves to dunk on the move, especially if he can get both hands on the ball. He’s a banger but really suited to play the 3/4 at the college level. Plays through and absorbs contact like a football player, but plays under control. Runs the floor at full speed. Colleges who like hard nosed players (and who doesn’t) should be actively recruiting.

Bryan Rouse (G, 6′, 2014) Rouse finishes with contact extremely well, blasts up and down the floor and always seems to have his hands on the ball. Rouse finishes his plays in the paint with a move similar to one that I’ve seen Tyus Jones do so well- taking the contact, bouncing off of the defender, keeping his shoulders square and finishing the shot as the foul is called. Rouse is a solid athlete with good court vision. Recently committed to Wingate.

Brandon Roddy (PG, 6′, 2014) Monroe HS (NC) Roddy continues to improve, and I’ve been tracking him for about two years. What first caught my eye was his awareness – he’s got that great poise and patience, and he’s always sizing up what the defense is doing. He’s got point guard skills and at his height that’s where colleges will be looking to put him; however, it should be mentioned that he has combo guard ability in that he can play off of the ball, create his own shot on the move and understands defending different positions.

Spencer Scott (SG, 6’2, 2014) Charlotte Christian – Scott is the kind of player that coaches need on their team. You know the players you see who understand team ball, who will set a pick when it matters, who can knock down the jumper but also know when to pass it up, the kind of player who will be rock solid even if their name isn’t on the ranking lists. Scott is one of those guys. The biggest issues for guys like Scott is that in our world of mix tapes and prep-to-pros hype, college coaches need guys like him but ‘rock solid’, ‘reliable’, and ‘consistent’ don’t make headlines. Some smart college is going to get a smart solid player.

Lachlan Caple (G, 6’3″, 2016) First time seeing Caple, and I saw some flashes of passing wizardry and ballhandling that were impressive. Looks to attack with the pass into the defense with excellent vision.

Zach Hartle (SF, 6’4, 2015) Hartle has added bulk to make himself more of a presence in the paint. With a lot of 6’7″ and 6’8″ players on the courts, Hartle seemed to grab every loose rebound at times. I already know that he’s an adept passer and can shoot from deep, but the added strength make him more versatile in the paint.

Carson Mounce (C, 6’10”, 2015) Mounce looks like he’s gotten stronger and is still working on his post arsenal at this point. I would really like to see him develop more of a drop step and power, with a focus on footwork. He has good hands and a quick release, and with his size he should be able to develop his release into a reliable hook shot.

Sacha Killeya-Jones (C, 6’8″, 2016) Slender big man who has good length and is a developing shot blocker – does not go for fakes and makes it hard for smaller players to score in the paint. Needs to add strength but would love to see him work on developing his offensive post moves as well.

Jeff McIlwain (C, 6’9, 2015) Asheville Christian Academy – McIlwain is a half court post player with a solid frame and good hands. He works to establish position in the paint, seals well and asks for the ball. He does tend to put the ball on the floor too often – partly because he is a better ballhandler than most of the big men he’s going against, but I’d like to see him work on getting the ball to the rim with better footwork. Does not shy away from contact. Definitely a college big man, where he ends up will depend on his work ethic and how much strength he can add – his solid frame looks like he could continue to add quite a bit of muscle.

Harrison Burton (SG, 6’3″, 2015) The Rock Hill, SC player impressed me with his deliberate play on both ends. Really digs in on defense and plays with purpose on offense. Has good size for the guard spot. One of the few wings I saw who knew to run to the deep corners on the halfcourt.

Hawk Swearingen (G, 6’1″, 2015) Sedalia (MO) – I would call him a scorer but that really wouldn’t accurately explain his game. Swearingen is an assassin, yes, who shoots the ball like it’s a weapon, and he can do it in a variety of ways – from deep or going to the bucket in traffic. But he’s not the type of player who is bent on getting the ball and chucking it up – he works within the offense, throwing zip passes to open teammates, moving without the ball and passing up bad shots. So you might watch him for a few minutes and just see a guy content to defer to others, then the defense will sag and bang – he’ll scorch you. Don’t sleep – this kid’s a baller.

Spencer Wilson (PG, 6’1″, 2015) Bishop McGuiness (NC) Wilson is deadly going to his left and has a smooth ability to shake the defender, freeing up an open shot – which he can nail consistently. Crafty and poised, Wilson has great awareness of what the defense is doing and has a plethora of moves to get that deadly shot open. His passing is solid and he’s going to be the player driving the offense for Bishop McGuinness this season. Good length.

Hunter Seacat (C, 6’9″, 2015) Already has the build to play in college and looks like he will continue to get stronger. Runs the floor and plays back to the basket, good hands. Good offensive footwork and will continue to add to his low post arsenal. Bodies up on defense and plays through contact. Has a few college offers and will no doubt add several more this high school season.

James West IV (PG, 5’11”, 2017) Over the past couple of years, West has shown an ability to play with older players because of his quick release and solid shooting, both from mid range and from deep. Now he shows extremely quick hands and more movement without the ball. I’ve said this before, but some players have a knack for getting the ball and getting some shots up, even when they are not running the point, and West is one of those players. West is the player who will snatch the ball from a big man when he puts the ball on the floor, but his quick release is his calling card.

Ruben Arroyo (F, 6’8″, 2015) Deep Run HS (VA) Solid athlete with some upside. Needs to add weight but has great quick bounce off of the floor, finesse touch and has the hang time to finish after contact. Gets his shots off after the catch in the post without bringing the ball down.

Timmy Walker, Jr. (PG, 6’1, 2016) Christ School (NC) – Excellent first step and great court vision. Quick, beats his man off the dribble to get inside the paint.

Will Tibbs (SF, 6’5″, 2014) Winston-Salem Prep (NC) Tibbs is a wing player with great length and can shoot the deep ball. But he’s active, not just a spot up shooter – he runs the floor extremely well on the break and has great hands. He continues to work and has been overlooked after having a really solid season last year for Prep. Tibbs is a player who should have more college interest than he does but if enough colleges give him looks this year, there is little doubt someone can use a high motor wing with collegiate range and length.

Gerald Peacock (G, 6’1″, 2015) Very quick transition player who wants to run. Aggressive, likes to push the ball right to the rim and looks for breaking players. A great fit for coaches who want to get up and down the floor, has the fast break mindset and will burn defenders who trot back on defense.

Spencer Osborne (G, 6’3″, 2014) Solid guard with good size and build, pushes the ball hard and keeps the defender on his heels. Strong and deliberate with the ball, high motor. Hard nosed and makes an impact with the dribble or the pass. Colleges looking to snatch up a solid 2014 player should be actively looking at him.

Austin Collins (G, 6’2″, 2014) Winston-Salem Prep (NC) – Collins has a good hesitation dribble and should have a breakout year at Prep – he was always a vital part of their title runs but will likely take over more of the point guard duties this season. Excellent passer, fast, gets into the teeth of the defense consistently. Another 2014 guard that colleges should be actively watching and in contact with.

Matt Kalaf (SF, 6’7″, 2016) Nuese Christian Academy (NC) – Great length and plays on the wing, quick hands and good passing from the wing. Sharp shooter who is a match up problem for smaller wings, has a lot of upside and definitely a collegiate prospect.

Cameron Gottfried (SG, 6’3″, 2014) Broughton HS (NC) Gottfried is a smart, high motor player with a good deep shot, high release and excellent athleticism. Likes to get out on the break and can finish above the rim.

Players added to the watch list for the upcoming season:

Tucker Thompson (C, 6’10”, 2014) Huntersville, NC

Bryant Vucich (C, 6’8″, 2015) Morrisville, NC – actually the second time I’ve seen Vucich and his high release and hook caught my eye both times.

Marshall Macheledt (C, 6’8″, 2014) Greensboro, NC

Kenny Bunton (PF, 6’5″, 2016) Chattanooga, TN

Follow Marcus Shockley on Twitter

By James Blackburn

Event: ELITE 75
Location: Charlotte, NC

James Blackburn attended the Elite 75 Showcase event in Charlotte, NC. The event was well attended by scouts and coaches to take in the competitive event with over 180 kids. Here are his notes on some of the top players he scouted.

Pappy Kann, 6’9”, PF, 2014 (Northwood Temple, Fayetteville, NC)

Player with great length. Lefty with nice up and under move near the basket. Runs the floor. Fluid player with quick hands. Nice left hook shot. Must get stronger and improve finishing ability.

Deshawn Patterson, 6’0”, PG, 2015 (Flora McDonald HS, Fayetteville, NC)

One of the best passing PG’s at the event today. Sees the floor and hits cutters. Tries to make the highlight pass a bit too much, but has terrific vision. Capable of getting to the paint with solid change of pace dribble, capable of hitting the floater and the open perimeter shot. Size hurts him to a degree and he over dribbles at times, but is a solid lead guard. Has interest from Western Carolina, Wingate, and Virginia Tech.

Tyreece Brice, 5’11”, PG, 2014 (South Point HS, Rock Hill, SC)

One of the best on-ball defenders at the event. Strong upper body. Forced some shots on offense. Good slasher. UNC-W has shown interest.

Shaun Kirk, 6’6”, G/F, 2016 (Flora McDonald HS, Fayetteville, NC)

Tremendous athlete- one of the best at the event- had numerous dunks. Capable of being a solid shot blocker because of elite athleticism. Needs to improve shooting ability. One to keep an eye on.

Pape Ndaiye, 6’9”, F, 2016 (Quality Education, Winston-Salem, NC)

Big bodied player who establishes good post position. Good rebounder who has good hands. Plays mainly under the rim, but is a good finisher.

Austin Nelson, 6’5”, SG, 2017 (Charlotte, NC)

Athletic player who is always attacking the rim. Streaky Shooter. Plays hard. Has potential and a high ceiling.

Marsellis Purvis, 6’6”, PF, 2016 (Quality Education, Winston-Salem, NC)

Plays very hard. Attacks the glass. Solid rebounder on both ends. Played well today.

Brandon Watts, 6’4”, SG, 2014 (Weddington HS, Weddington, NC)

Great length. Underrated strength level. Willing to play both inside and outside. Attacks the rim. Competes.

Xavier Walker, 6’6”, SF, 2014 (West Charlotte HS, Charlotte, NC)

Great build. Strong athlete. Good rebounder on offense end. Can finish well with his left hand. Versatile player. Needs to get more consistent.

Jerelle DeBerry, 6’5”, SF, 2014 (Quality Education, Winston-Salem, NC)

College ready body. Man amongst boys here at the event. Scored at will in game 2 today. Lacks elite athleticism, but can certainly finish over the rim, which he did several times with authority. Dangerous in the open court. Strong rebounder. Needs to improve shooting ability.

Rashad Dixon, 6’3”, F, 2017 (Southern Durham, Durham, NC)

High motor player who is a good shot blocker. Tries to block everything- influences shots he doesn’t block. Good rebounder. Athletic and long. Good potential.

Jordan Bruner, 6’7”, F, 2016 (Spring Valley, Columbia, SC)

Player with great length. Fluid in the open court. Athletic.

Austin Harris, 6’3”, SF, 2014 (West Charlotte HS, Charlotte, NC)

Very long. Tremendous above the rim athlete. High motor. High release on shot- but inconsistent.

Kwe Parker, 6’2”, SG, 2016 (Trinity School, Fayettville, NC)

Best above the rim athlete in the gym. Had several highlight worthy dunks in transition today. Solid offensive rebounder.

Trey Foster, 5’10”, PG, 2014 (West Charlotte HS, Charlotte, NC)

One of the top players at the event today. Have been following his career for a few years now- has always played beyond his years. Poised leader on the court. Pure PG who has an excellent mix of ball handling, playmaking, and getting to the rim. Smooth player who almost gets to paint at well. Excellent in P/R situations- makes the right decisions. Has a nice left to right crossover dribble move. Does an excellent job of getting by initial defender and then keeping him on his back by using the trap dribble. Has a high IQ and he changes speeds well. Has offers from Drexel, Winthrop, and Western Carolina. Recent interests includes Miami, Old Dominion, and Rhode Island.

Student Athlete World Logo 1Basketball Elite

We’re happy to announce that our guest speaker at this year’s Southeast Summer Showcase is Tim Ryerson of Student Athlete World. Tim brings his years of experience and in-depth knowledge of the recruiting process to help parents navigate the entire process. Tim’s presentation about the realities of recruiting were one of the highlights of last year’s showcase.

It’s important for players and parents to get information that cuts through the hype and noise of today’s recruiting process, especially in an era where top players are shown in prime time all-star games on ESPN while most players toil in complete obscurity. Tim and his staff are able to share a view of the recruiting landscape that is invaluable, and they’ve worked with hundreds of players to find them a place playing at the next level. This falls right into our philosophy for the showcase, which is finding players for every level of college basketball.

For more information on Tim and Student Athlete World, we recommend visiting their website here.

To sign up for the Southeast Summer Showcase, go here.

Chase Ward-Mcewan Southeast Summer Showcase

Student Athlete World

By Marcus Shockley

When watching the documentary Gunnin’ for That No. 1 Spot, directed by Adam Yauch (forever known to me as MCA of the Beastie Boys), one statement from the movie made me cringe and has stuck with me ever since. It wasn’t because I haven’t heard similar statements before, but because it so perfectly encapsulates the myth behind college basketball recruiting.

As the players are walking out on the court for the first time at the Elite 24, the emcee announces “these players will all be millionaires in a few years”. Make no mistake about it; in high profile college basketball recruiting, these players are in demand and many of the stories people think happen are true, such as the current “Player X” story on ESPN from our man Jason Jordan. This is not to say Jason’s story isn’t true. The type of things listed in his article do happen, just like the way that some big time colleges use the “unofficial visit” as a way to funnel money to a recruit. But that’s only a few cases, and the reality for the vast majority of high school basketball players is much different.

I know there are some great articles available from people who I know and recommend like Tim Ryerson of Student Athlete Word like College Recruiting Myths which break down many of the misconceptions of how high school players get noticed and recruited by colleges, and our pal Al Woods of Woods Recruiting has many articles on the subject as well. So I’m not going to delve into those aspects. What I’m going to cover are some of the myths about high school basketball players and the difference between reality and people’s perception.

1. Not all D1 athletes are going to the NBA.

There are so many basketball players who want to go to a D1 school, and it makes sense on some levels; pride in being able to say you were a D1 athlete, the possibility of more exposure for some programs, and the ability to network with former players/coaches. Players also want to show they can play against D1 talent, because D1 talent is overall closer to pro talent.

But the reality is that almost none of the Division 1 basketball players playing today have a future playing in the NBA, and very few even have a future playing overseas. So even if you land a D1 scholarship, there’s very little chance it will turn you into a lottery pick. The types of players who go from unknown to NBA picks include Jimmer Fredette, Steph Curry and Kemba Walker. In other words, players who started for schools that made the NCAA tournament, were considered possibly the best player in the nation, and had incredible performances in front of national television audiences during the NCAA tournament.

And the kids from the movie? They did all make the NBA, but two weren’t drafted until the second round, hardly equal to the brash guarantee made about their games.

Many players who could start for Division 2 programs will go to a D1 school and rarely even see the floor, because they think that they have to be D1 in order to play pro ball. John Thompson, legendary coach of the Georgetown Hoyas, used to keep a deflated basketball on his desk as a reminder that it was worthless without ‘9 pounds of air’…”If you live your whole life based on nine or 10 pounds of air in the ball and your life has no other importance or significance than that, excuse me, you’re a damn fool,” he says, constantly reminding players that an education is more reliable than that 9 pounds of air.

Even all of the players on UNC, Kentucky, Syracuse and Duke don’t have futures as pro players. This is not to say you shouldn’t have dreams, and yes, sometimes players do make the pros from lesser known schools. But parents and players think that D1=NBA, means millions of dollars, and they completely ignore some of their best options.

2. Not all college recruiting is sordid.

Yes, there is truth to some of the rumors and stereotypes of big time athletics. Not all players take money, but there are all of the things people hear about: runners, handlers, cash payments, “perks”, jobs for parents, jobs for handlers, and so on.

But that’s not the norm – that’s only a situation that has to be navigated for the top athletes, the ones who can help a college team compete for a national title and probably will be in the NBA before long. For the vast majority of players, college recruiting is about trying to figure out where they can get a scholarship, where they will see the most playing time, where they will feel comfortable and what type of degree they can get while in school.

For most colleges, they don’t have million dollar budgets and the coaches are certainly not flying around the country in private jets. For many college coaches, they are desperately looking for athletes who can help them win, and who can actually get into, and stay in, school. A lot of players and parents have a complete misconception about the college recruiting process – they think if only their child were to get seen by the right college, they’d get offered right away. The reality is that most players have to work like crazy to get even a single offer from any school. That is a far cry from the glamour of the top athletes and top programs.

3. You cannot “talk” or “promote” a player into a scholarship.

I love grassroots basketball. I love driving way out into the middle of nowhere, finding my way to a gym in the dark, walking in and suddenly seeing a 6’8″ kid no one has ever heard of who can really play. But there are parents – and media – who constantly promote players beyond their abilities.

I don’t scout players in the sixth grade. No serious scout would. Sure, you can keep an eye on him if he looks like he has skill, but beyond that it’s pointless.

I’m not saying parents shouldn’t communicate how their child is doing, but the reality is that the only things that will get a player into college on an athletic scholarship is his ability and his grades, and he has to be able to play against other big time players. Nothing else. So when you tell everyone who will listen that Big State U and Giant University are all recruiting your kid, honestly, it’s obvious when that’s a line being tossed around in hopes of generating false interest.

And I love highlight films and mixtapes, after all, I’m a huge basketball fan. But a mixtape is not a scouting video, because every mixtape makes the players look like NBA all-stars. You also have to remember that any highlight video has two components: the player being featured and the competition of the event. There have been many times I’ve seen player video and the kid looks like a superstar, shooting from outside, passing, dunking, dominating. Often, seeing the player in person is a very different story.

By Justin Byerly

Dominique Adams 5’10” 165 Forestview HS (Gastonia, NC)
Also, a running back for the football team, Adams averages around 16 points per game for Forestview HS. He is receiving some college interest from a few schools as of right now. He was named the NC player of the week in football this season. The two-sport star set the Gaston County record for most rushing yards in a game against Bessmer City HS, earlier this year. Scored 18 points against Lincolnton HS (Lincolnton, N.Car) with 10 assists.

Brandon Clyburn 2012 6’8″ 195 Southwest Guilford HS (Greensboro, NC)
Clyburn is a long slender forward, that has a nice three-point shot for a 6’8″ guy. Runs the court well, and has a nice post game with a nice baby hook shot when in the paint. He has been receiving the most interest from East Carolina University, Appalachian State University, Navy, Jacksonville University, High Point University and the Citadel. Clyburn transferred from Greensboro powerhouse Dudley HS this season.

Gary Clark 2014 6’6 200 Clayton HS (Clayton, NC)
Interest from ECU, App, South Carolina, WF, NC State, and UVa. Clark should be in the mid-high major category. He is skilled at his position and is very athletic, hits the glass well also. He runs the floor really well for a bigger kid and has a nice three-point shot. Should only get better over the next three years. Should be considered a high-major prospect by his senior season.

Steven Burrough 6’8″ 2013 210lbs Harding University HS (Charlotte, NC)
He is averaging around 6 points per game this season to go along with nearly 6 rebounds and 4 blocks. He is only a junior, so should see minutes rise even more over the next year. Should be a Division Two or Low Division One player, he is a stat sheet filler. Not getting much interest as of now from when I last talked to Steven but that could all change with a break-out game soon with his size and shot blocking ability.

Willy Akasson 6’3″ 2012 SG Northwood Temple Academy (Fayeteville, NC)
Akasson is a good scorer, gets through his screens well, and can get to the rim with ease with his quick first step. Has a nice three-point shot, and good form on it. He is a senior, so needs to have a good season to get some better looks from colleges.

AJ Clark 5’10” 2012 Western Alamance High Scool (Elon, NC)
Clark is a very good penetrator. He gets into the lane to open up other guys and usually either scores when he is in the lane or has a very nice assist set up. He is not the tallest player out there, but uses his jumping ability and cross-over to make seperation and free himself for a good look or easy floater or jumper. He finsihes in traffic well and always has his head up. Should get some college looks this season.

Shaquille Dance 2012 6’4″ 180 Neuse Christian (Raleigh, NC)
The 6’4 guard/small forward is averaging close to 16 points per game, to go with nearly 7 rebounds per game. He has good size and can get to the rim to finish with ease. Should be a college recruit by the end of the season.

Darryl Davender 2013 5’11” PG, Body of Christ HS (Raleigh, NC)
One of the fastest guards that I have saw in a long time. This kid can scoot. He is very good scorer for his size also. He may grow a little more, which would make him even more hard to guard. Has a quick first step and can get from baseline to baseline as fast as I have seen in a while. He is getting interest from Tenessee, Gardner-Webb, Radford University, Wisconsin,Virginia Tech, Mercer University and has got a little interest from Miami University he informed me. Keep an out for Darryl.

Zach Davis 6’3″ 2012 G United Faith Christian (Charlotte, NC)
A very talented guard at 6’3, he gets to the hoop easy and can shoot well. Very athletic, and blocks shots against taller players. He finishes well on fast-breaks and dunks with authority. He has scholarship offers from Navy, Mercer, Wofford University and Univeristy of Tenessee at Chattanooga. Plays on a talented United Faith team that has Indiana commit 7’1 Peter Jurkin and 6’0 Florida commit Braxton Ogbueze.

Demarcus Lewis 6’3″ 2013 Berea HS (Berea, SC)
Lewis is averaging nearly 17 points per game along with almost 5 rebounds. He was selected as the MaxPreps Player of the Week for December 4th 2011 after getting 38pts, 15 rebounds 6 blocks in a game. They are playing in the Erskine (S.Car) Holiday Tournament over Christmas break. You should keep an eye on this kid, he has Berea off to a 7-1 start.

Dustin Dodd 6’5″ 195 2013 Hickory Grove Christian School (Charlotte, NC)
Averaging 22 points per game, 6 rebounds per game and is getting college interest from Davidson College, Richmond University, Elon, UNC Charlotte, UNC Greensboro, Jacksonville University & UT Chatanooga.


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By Justin Byerly

Josh Smith 6’8″ 245 C 2012 Olympic HS (NC)
The Clemson University commit is a beast in the paint for one of North Carolina’s most talented teams. He averaged 12 points and 9 rebounds as a junior last season for the Trojans. He had offers from The Citadel, Appalachian State University, Drexel University and Gardner-Webb University.

Jaylen Reid 6’7″ 185 F 2013 Rock Hill HS (SC)
Reid is getting interest from The University of Nebraska, Georgia Tech, Georgia State University, College of Charleston and Clemson University he confirmed to me via text message. He also stated “High Point told me I am their top prospect for 2013”. So far this season he has scored 18 points against Chester HS (SC) and 25 points against South Pointe (SC). He is the son of former UNC star JR Reid.

Mikel Harvey 6’0″ 160 G 2012 Perquimans HS (NC)
The 6’0 PG has started out the season strong with stat lines of 33 points, 11 rebounds, 7 steals and 4 assists followed by 26 points and 7 rebounds in the first week of games. He scored 39 points and had 13 rebounds last Friday (the 2nd) in a win which avenged a loss from last week. Harvey said he is not sure of what school’s have been contacting his coach at this time. Harvey should be a low to mid major college basketball player, and should receive interest from a host of Division Two schools. Harvey averaged nearly 22 points and 7 rebounds last season for the Hertford, NC school.

Austin Hatfield 6’0 170 G 2014 South Davidson (NC)
The sophomore averaged nearly 20 points per game last season for South Davidson HS, his identical twin brother Taylor (is listed below). Hatfield informed me that Virginia Tech and James Madison have been in to see him and his brother work out over the start of practices last month. He said ” I have been receiving letters and invites to games from Stanford University, University of Pennsylvania, Appalachian State University, Tulane University, UNC-Charlotte and about a dozen more”. Asked on who is showing the most interest Austin responded “Virginia Tech, James Madison University, Appalachian State, Tulane and Stanford University”. Through the first three games this season, Austin has scored 22 points, 17 points and 20 points.

Taylor Hatfield 6’0 170 G 2014 South Davidson (NC)
Taylor is getting the same interest as his brother listed (above). Taylor averaged nearly 17 points last season at South Davidson HS.

Martin Alston 6’3 180 F 2012 Granville Central HS (NC)
Alston, who is also a standout football player for Granville Central was named all-state last season as junior. In his first game this season Alston had 10 points, 12 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 4 steals on Nov. 26th. He averaged nearly 14 points and 11 rebounds last season for Granville. He informed me “I dont really have schools recruiting me right now”, on November 27. He was named to the ESPN ALL STATE Watch List this season for the 2011-2012 season.

Donte Clark 6’4″ 175 G 2013 Kennedy Charter HS (NC)
Ranked as one of the top twenty point guards in the country by some outlets, Clark now has offers from East Carolina University, Virginia Tech, Gardner-Webb University, Radford University, Wofford, UT-Chattanooga, High Point University, and Jacksonville University. He informed me Dec 4th that “Virginia Tech is on me pretty hard”, and he has already took an unofficial visit to Blacksburg, VA. Clark is one of four or five Division One prospects at Kennedy Charter School in Charlotte, NC and should be considered one of the most talented teams in North Carolina. He transferred from Queens Grant HS in Charlotte while boasting a 15 point scoring average last season. Sounds like Virginia Tech is where Clark may likely end up.

Luquon Choice 6’1″ 205 G 2012 Laurens HS (SC)
A deadly three point specialist, Choice has offers from Newberry College (SC) and North Greenville College (SC). He has been named one of the top 5 players in SC, by South Carolina Basketball Coaches Association. He is a four-year starter for Laurens HS and Coach Mark Freeze calls Choice “one of the hardest working players that he has ever been around”. Choice is looking for another strong season and should add more offers as the season goes on. Scored 24pts Dec 2nd against

Brandon Clyburn 6’8″ 195 F/C 2012 Southwest Guilford HS (NC)
Clyburn is a long slender forward, that has a nice three-point shot for a 6’8″ guy. Runs the court well, and has a nice post game with a nice baby hook shot when in the paint. He has been receiving the most interest from East Carolina University, Appalachian State University, Navy, Jacksonville University, High Point University and the Citadel. Clyburn transferred from Greensboro powerhouse Dudley HS this season.

Connor Burchfield 6’2″ 160 G 2014 Concord HS (NC)
Burchfield and Concord are off to a 2-0 start so far this season. He has scored 12 points in the first game and 21 in the second, against a strong Mt. Tabor team. Connor informed me that he is getting a little interest from Mercer University and Western Carolina University outside Sylva, NC.

Gary Clark 6’7″ 205 F 2014 Clayton HS (NC)
A very talented sophomore, Clark is an explosive force when he gets to the rim. He in formed me that he has interest from East Carolina University, Appalachian State University, University of South Carolina, Wake Forest University, North Carolina State and Virginia. He also informed that South Carolina came to his game last week and watched him play. Clark will continue to improve and should be one of North Carolina’s top prospects in a very strong 2014 class. Gary informed me that North Carolina, NC State and Wake Forest were his top three colleges.

Issac Copeland 6’6″ 180 F Ravenscroft HS (NC)
Ranked by ESPN as the 24th best prospect in North Carolina for the 2013 class, Copeland let me know that he has been offered a scholarship East Carolina University and American University. He is one of the best shooters in the class of 2013. He also has interest from Wichita State University, William & Mary, and Florida State University. Should be another talented team for Ravenscroft. which is based in the Raleigh area.

Basketball

By Justin Byerly

Editor’s Note: Did you miss part one and two of this series? Go read part one or part two now. We’ll wait.

Keyshawn Woods 6’2″ SG 175 2014 Gaston Day (NC)
Woods is a high scoring shooting guard who averaged nearly 22 points a game last season as a freshman. He informed me via text message that he has already been offered a scholarship by The University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Wichita State University. He also said “my dream school would be The University of North Carlolina”. Keyshawn should be considered one of the top 40 players in the country in the class of 2014. Keyshawn gets to the basket with a nice cross-over, and hesitation. He always has his head up and makes the right passes. I had him for only one turnover in a game against Asheville Christian Academy over the weekend and he scored 22 points on a variety of three-pointers, fast break lay-ups, and jump-shots. He has a vertical of about 34-35 inches and can get off the floor in a hurry. High basketball IQ for a kid who is just in his second year of high school.

Jevon Thomas 6’1″ 180 PG 2012 Quality Education Academy (NC)
Thomas has already signed to play college basketball at Dayton (OH) University after decomitting from St. Johns University while getting interest from Seton Hall University, Penn State University, Villanova University and Towson University. Originally from New York City, Jevon is ranked as the 6th best prospect in North Carolina by ESPN.com and the 22nd best point guard in the country. He has a great cross-over and has great speed, he should really thrive in the Dayton University system.

Jordan Robinson 6’9″ 240 C 2014 Quality Education Academy (NC)
Robinson had great hands for a big man, posseses a nice game around the post and can get alot of rebounds. He has been offered by The University of Arizona, UNC-Charlotte, and Seton Hall University according to Quality Education Academy Head Coach Issac Pitts. He played AAU basketball with loaded CIA Bounce out of Canada.

Brandon Bolden 6’11” 200 C 2012 Quality Education Academy (NC)
The Georgetown signee, is originally from Sumter, SC and is considered one of the top twenty centers in the country by many publications. The long (7’3 wing-span) and slender (could use some bulking up) Bolden held offers from The University of Georgia, UVa, Baylor University, University of Florida and Virginia Tech.

Ke’Shun Sherrill 5’10” 165 PG 2012 West Rowan HS (NC)
Annually one of the top teams in the state of North Carolina, West Rowan has another Sherrill to keep that tradition alive. The long list of the Sherrills’ include Scooter (former NC State player), KJ (plays for UNC-Charlotte) and KJ Sherrill a football an basketball star in his own right at West Rowan. Now its Keshun, a speedy 5’10 PG with his lone offer coming from Lenoir-Rhyne College in Hickory, NC. He also informed me that he is gaining interest from Virginia Military Institute and North Carolina A&T. Keshun averaged 21.1 points a game last season for West Rowan.
Note: Ke’Shun played in the Basketball Elite Southeast Summer Showcase in 2011 and had a solid showing.

*Rodney Purvis 6’3″ 205 PG/SG 2012 Upper Room Christian (NC)
The top ranked player in North Carolina, Purvis has signed to play basketball at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC. He possesses a knack at getting to the rim with ease, elecrtifying dunks and great cross-over that allows him to get free for the jumper or create space for a drive to the basket. He passes the ball extremely well and always sees the whole court. Purvis, who was once committed to the Univserity of Louisville and Rick Pitino also held offers from nearly every major Division One school in the country.

Dominique Williams 6’7″ 208 F 2012 Quality Education Academy (NC)
The Mallard Creek (Charlotte) transfer is getting interest from UNC-Charlotte, Wingate University, North Carolina Central University, and Richmond (VA) University. He was a member of The Charlotte Observer’s IMECK 4-A Second Team last season. Dominique averaged nearly 14 points per game last season at Mallard Creek.

Mike Brown 6’3″ 180 G 2012 West Charlotte HS (NC)
The Western Carolina University commitment is one of the top players returning for the NCHSAA 4-A State Championship Lions team. The 5th Championship in the past 25 years. He also had interest from Jacksonville (FL) University and Winthrop (SC) University. Brown was voted team MVP after the final game at the state championship. West Charlotte will be a favorite to try to re-peat as state champs as they did in 91-92.

BJ Gladden 6’5″ 180 G 2013 (formally of Olympic HS Charlotte, transferring to Kennedy Charter)
Gladden is a human highlight reel, he is an explosive dunker and is one of the top juniors in North Carolina. His days at Olympic HS are over for this year because of a discrepancy in where he lived and rumors are floating around that the high-flyer may be heading to Kennedy Charter School, also in Charlotte and join another strong team there. Although when reached by phone Gladden stated “not for sure yet” regarding if he was headed there. Gladden is getting interest from Miami University and UNC-Charlotte. He averaged close to 9 points per game before the suspension was handed down last Thursday. Olympic went on to win Friday night against a talented Myers Park HS (Charlotte) by over twenty points. Gladden is a Division One prospect and willonly be getting more attention as the season progresses wherever he is enrolled to play basketball at.

JaKeem Yates 6’8″ 190 F 2013 West Charlotte HS (NC)
Yates informed me that UNC-Wilmington offered him a scholarship back at the end of September and UNC-Greensboro offered him a few weeks before. Auburn recently offered the West Charlotte product who transfered from Mallard Creek last year. Yates is a solid rebounder and can finish in the post with his size.

Julius Hamilton 6’3″ 235 2013 Kennedy Charter School (NC)
The West Mecklenburg HS transfer is a big-bodied guard who uses his strength and size to take over his opponent and score or rebound. He is getting interest from some mid-majors right now but should gain more as the season goes on. Averages around 13-14 points per game for one of Charlotte’s most talented teams. One of five Division One prospects for Kennedy Charter.

Shaun Stewart 6’1″ 180 G 2012 Sun Valley HS (NC)
Point guard Stewart averaged nearly 23 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists per game last season for Sun Valley. He is gaining the most interest right now from Radford University, Lincoln Memorial University, Lenoir-Rhyne College, Newberry College, Mt. Olive and Wingate University. He has been offered a scholarship by Newberry, Lincoln Memorial, and Mt. Olive. So far this season, in a loss to East Mecklenburg by five points, Stewart scored 24 points.

Thaxter Spruill 6’6″ 215 F/C 2014 Clinton HS (NC)
The long and athletic Spruill should end up being one of the most talented sophomores in North Carolina and even the country. Has a long wingspan that makes it tough for opposing teams to make the right pass or shot. He has been getting calls requesting information on him from The University of North Carolina according to Dwight Miller.
Note: Thaxter recently spoke with Basketball Elite and gave us the lowdown on what he’s working on right now.

By Justin Byerly


Photo Credit: 5in60.com

Allerik Freeman 6’4 210 Jr. Olympic HS Charlotte (NC)– Over 20 offers already, recently told me that UCLA has offered. Others include Arizona, Texas, Georgetown, NC State, Florida, Syracuse and Kansas. Freeman is the top ranked 2013 player in the state.

Kennedy Meeks 6’8 255 Jr. West Charlotte HS (NC)– Has offers from Florida, Georgia Tech, Maryland, NC State, Georgia, and Tennessee to name a few. Ranked by many as a top 20 player nationally.

Trey Mitchell 6’4 190 Jr. Olympic HS Charlotte (NC)– In a conversation with Trey yesterday he told me that Hampton, Memphis, East Carolina, and Appalachian are showing him the most interest.

Sindarius Thornwell 6’4 180 Jr. Lancaster HS (SC)– Comfirmed he has over 16 offers by phone today, the 2nd. Those include South Carolina, Tennessee, Clemson and Oregon State. Ranked by ESPN as the #1 recruit in the class of 2013 in South Carolina.

James Demery 6’4 170 So. The Oakfield School Greenville (NC)– High flying guard is getting interest from Kansas, Virginia Tech, NC State, South Carolina and East Carolina University. He is ranked by ESPN as the 12th best guard in 2014.

Christian Hairston 6’7 180 Jr. Greensboro Day (NC)– Confirmed to me via text message that Oklahoma State University has already offered and he is recieving high interest from Appalchain State. Should be a very talented Greensboro Day School this season.

Jalen White 6’1 175 Jr. Kennedy Charter HS Charlotte (NC)-Recieving interest from Appalachian State, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, The Citadel, Mercer University, College of Charleston and University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Will be taking a visit to Radford soon, he confirmed in a text earlier this week.

Julian Reed 5’11 155 So. Cleveland HS (NC)– Gaining interest from Elon and Radford he confirmed via text message. Julian averaged nearly 22 points a game last year as a freshman.

Timothy Bates 5’11 170 Jr. North Rowan HS (NC)– Showing interest from University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Winthrop University. Led North Rowan to the NCHSAA 1-A title last year.

Oshon West 6’2 178 Jr. North Rowan HS (NC)– Getting high interest from Wichita St and University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Averaged around 13 points a game last season.

Darren Black 5’10 155 Jr. Concord Senior HS (NC)- Darren comfirmed by text message early this week that Wake Forest University and the University of South Carolina are recruiting him the hardest right now. University of North Carolina at Charlotte is also involved.

Quinton Ray 6’0 165 Jr. Middle Creek HS (NC)– After a phone conversation with Quinton, he told me that Mercer University, Gardner-Webb University and North Carolina- Central are recruiting him the hardest right now. Also getting interest from Texas Pan-Am and Radford University.

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