Best of the Best Prep Basketball Scouting

Update- 4/18/10

2010-04-18T00:17:00.000-07:00

-6'6 Javontae Hawkins, one of the top sophomore wing players in America, out of Flint, MI/Powers was on campus today at Michigan. A offer was extended, and an official offer will be granted July 15. Hawkins was told by the UM staff he is their "#1 sophomore wing recruit". Hawkins definitely has outstanding upside and potential. Baylor, South Carolina, Notre Dame are the newest schools to his recruitment.

-Matt Poches, the 6'4 Jr Wing from Hartland, MI/High has committed to Oakland University. He is also a top wide receiver prospect. Poches runs on the grassroots circuit with Norm Oden's Michigan Mustangs.

-Tommie McCune's recruitment is going to get ugly. The 6'7 Wing out of Saginaw,MI/High is becoming the next Wilson Chandler (in terms of game) and ranks amongst the elite in Michigan's 2011 class. Missouri will make an official offer very soon. Baylor, South Carolina, Maryland, are turning up the heat hard! Frank Haith and Jorge Fernandez are flying in to see him today in open gym, as well as Georgetown, South Florida, Michigan St., and others. Stay tuned for more.

-Dane Fife, head coach of IPFW is considered by some to be the front-runner for the vacant assistant coach position at Michigan. Saddi Washington from Oakland University, Bakari Alexander from Western Michigan University, Oronde Taliaferro, who most recently was a Oklahoma assistant, and is a Michigan native, are also believed to be candidates.

-Now is the perfect time to subscribe to the BOTB newsletter for the top scouting reports, player rankings, and recruiting news on Michigan and players from across America. Subscribe on the links to the right! Thanks in advance.

-A Motown Showdown report will be published soon.

Recruiting Update

2010-04-13T20:26:00.000-07:00

-Four top prospects are expected to announce their decisions tomorrow on ESPNU and from all of the information I have gathered, the prospects below should commit to the schools listed below. If another school is to gain their commitment/signature, I'd truly be surprised.

Class of 2010
* Brandon Knight, 6'3, PG, Ft. Lauderdale, FL/Pinecrest (Top 5 player in America) KENTUCKY
* Ray McCallum, Jr. , 6'0, PG, Detroit, MI/Country Day (Top 20 player in America) DETROIT-MERCY
* Trey Zeigler, 6'4, SG, Mt. Pleasant, MI/High (Top 30 player in America) CENTRAL MICHIGAN

Class of 2011
* Michael Gilchrist, 6'7, Wing, Somerdale, NJ/St. Patrick's (#1 Jr in America) KENTUCKY

Motown Showdown Preview

2010-04-08T23:37:00.000-07:00

-Norm Oden, director of the Michigan Mustangs is a vet on the Michigan grassroots basketball scene and he's put together a very good field in his annual Motown Showdown event. Below are some of the top players and teams expected to be in attendance.

17s

Michigan Mustangs (Coach Rod Watts)

-Patrick Lucas-Perry, 5'10, PG, Flint Powers
-Trey McDonald, 6'9, PF, Battle Creek Central
-Dwaun Anderson, 6'4, Wing, Suttons Bay
-Ladontae Henton, 6'6, Wing, Lansing Eastern (may be injured)

DWade Heat (Coach Sean Bledsoe)

-Gary Harris, 6'3, Wing, Soph, Hamilton Southeastern
-RJ Hunter, 6'4, Wing, Soph, Indianapolis Pike
-Jacobby Bledsoe, 5'10, PG, Soph, Hamilton Southeastern

Dorian's Pride (Coach Tim McCormick)

-Tommie McCune, 6'7, F, Saginaw High
-Justin Moss, 6'7, PF, Romulus
-Ray Lee, 6'2, PG, Soph, Romulus
-Shaquille Smith, 5'10, PG, Flint Northern
-Trey Babers, 6'6, Wing, Saginaw High
-Dan Chilcote, 6'8, F, Jackson Lumen Christi

Chicago Express/DRose (Coach Reggie Rose)

-Ryan Boatright, 5'10, PG, Aurora East

ACB/Bank Hoops (Coach Dave Jones)

-Justin Klein, 6'2. PG, Soph, Ostego
-Sean Sheldon, 6'9, PF, Soph, Traverse City St. Francis

Team Detroit

-Brandan Kearney, 6'6, Wing, Detroit Southeastern, MICHIGAN STATE
-Percy Gibson, 6'8, PF, Detroit Southeastern
-AJ Mathew, 6'2, SG, Ann Arbor Huron

16s

Dorian's Pride (Coach Jerry Brackett/DeAndre Clement)

-Matt Costello, 6'9, PF, Bay City Western
-Javontae Hawkins, 6'6, Wing, Flint Powers
-Anton Wilson, 6'6, SG, Flint Carman-Ainsworth
-Donald Fisher, 6'8, PF, Flint Northern
-Davario Gaines, 6'7, PF, Saginaw High
-Kevin Marshall, 6'7, PF, Saginaw High

Michigan Mustangs (Coach Van Mayfield)

-Denzel Valentine, 6'5, Wing, Lansing Sexton
-Marquise Mondy, 6'4, Wing, Grand Rapids Catholic Central
-Anthony Clemmons, 5'10, PG, Lansing Sexton

Ohio Basketball Club (Coach Winston Grays)

-Malik London, 6'9, PF, Chillicothe
-Lorenzo Cugini, 6'5, Wing, Akron St. Vincent St. Mary

Chicago Express/DRose

-Tim Williams, 6'7, Wing, Homewood-Floosmoor
-Delvon Rencher, 6'6, Wing, Homewood-Floosmoor

Team Detroit

-Monte Morris, 6'0, PG, Fresh, Flint Beecher

15s

Dorian's Pride (Coach Steven Haney, Sr.)

-Steven Haney, Jr. 6'5, Wing, East Lansing
-Jalen Hayes, 6'6, F, Lansing Sexton
-Dominic Jackson, 6'3, Wing, Saginaw Buena Vista
-JD Tisdale, 6'3, Wing, Flint Northern
-Richie Lewis, 5'10, PG, Flint Northern
-Cliff Kelley, 6'6, PF, Jackson
-Brian Morton, 6'2, SG, Lansing Eastern

Superfriends (Coach Curtis Hervey)

-Derrick Walton, 5'10, PG, Chandler Park Academy
-Dre Johnson, 5'10, PG, Detroit Cass Tech

14s

The Family (Coach Marvin Conway)

-Mory Diane, Jr. , 6'2, G, Detroit Country Day Middle School
-Issac Bowles, 6'6, C, Detroit

Team Detroit (Coach Chris Cagle)

-Edmond Sumner, 5'10, PG, Detroit Country Day Middle School
-Richard Gold, 6'4, F, Inkster
-Tyler Johnson, 6'0, SG, Detroit
-Nelson Cagle, 5'10. PG, Detroit

Dorian's Pride (Coach Ralph Arnett)

-Keon Addison, 5'10, PG, Saginaw
-Joe Powell, 6'6, F, Saginaw
-Trevor Manuel, 6'4, Wing, Holt
-DeAndre Parker, 6'7, PF, Jackson
-Jayln Jackson, 6'3, Wing, Saginaw

State Championships Player Recaps

2010-04-06T22:28:00.000-07:00

As many know the Kalamazoo Central was the 2009-2010 Class A Boys State Champ, Country Day was the 2009-2010 Class B Boys State Champ, Melvindale Business & Technology was the Class C State Champ, and West Michigan Christian was the 2009-2010 Class D State Champ. Below are evaluations on some of the impressive players from the semis and finals of all classes.

Class A

Devin Oliver, 6'7, Wing, Kalamazoo Central, DAYTON : Devin had a big weekend for the Maroon Giants. As one of the senior leaders and a Division One recruit, Oliver is expected to step up, and that he did. Extremely versatile and best in the open court, Oliver flourished getting numerous fast break points, easy put backs, and short jumpers. Blessed with great vision, he is also a willing passer and showed that during the Finals weekend. Good rebounder, that needs to become a better rebounder in traffic and rebounding out of his area. A legit 6'7, and a legit wing. Would be shocked to see him not develop into a very solid A-10 player at Dayton.

TJ Buchanan, 6'4, Wing, Kalamazoo Central, JR : TJ was my MVP for the Class A Finals Weekend, simply because he did it all. If he continues to improve his jump shot, he will be recruited at the high major level. Guards like Carlton Brundidge, one of the most touted 2011 recruits in Michigan, weren't as good as TJ this weekend, and don't appear to be better prospects. Buchanan is a very good passer, as is most of the Maroon Giants team, and he also has improved leaps and bounds from a physical standpoint this year. Going forward, developing a respectable outside shot is key.

Dante Williams, 6'5, SG, Ann Arbor Huron, JR : Shot the blood out the ball in the Class A title game. Very good player. Major sleeper who should see his recruitment land at the mid major plus level at the very least. Long and athletic, and seems to be putting his game together at the right time, excellent spot up shooter, and also a capable shot blocker because of his length. Interesting prospect, and one to definitely track down the line.

Isaiah Sykes, 6'6, Wing, Detroit Denby : Leading the Denby squad to the semis was no easy task, and big props should be given to him for his accomplishments. He doesn't have a jump shot to save his life, but you'd be hard pressed to find a better finisher and slasher in the 2010 class statewide. Also drop dimes like a 5'9 PG. Terrific rebounder, and is great at getting the defensive board and starting the fast break and making something positive happen with the basketball. High majors are recruiting him, and it's warranted, would be a good late pick up for any up-tempo college team.

Derrick Barden, 6'4, Wing, Detroit Denby : Outside of Keith Appling, I think Derrick Barden is the best Sr in the Detroit PSL. Barden is very well rounded and is a phenomenal athlete. He's good now, but his potential is even better, with proper skill development at the next level. Excellent body, is basically a man amongst boys at this level. Adequate jump shot, that needs to improve, but serviceable, nonetheless. Mid Majors would do themselves a absolute favor by signing him, and in my opinion, high majors may look smart in the end by signing him.

Carlton Brundidge, 6'0, SG, Southfield, JR : Brundidge is a very good high school basketball player, that can't be argued. He's already committed to Michigan, but I don't know if he'll be successful in that system. In order to succeed at the highest level, picking the right system will be a absolute necessity for him. At the end of the day, he's a SG, and that's the bottom line. He produces and gets the job done, at that's what every team needs. He's a very good finisher for his size at the high school level and he can score in bunches when he gets rolling. All in all, his upside is limited in my opinion.

Class B

Ray McCallum, Jr. , 6'2, PG, Detroit Country Day : Let's keep this short and sweet, after his performance in the Finals and Semi's, if you don't agree with me that McCallum, Jr. is the best player in Michigan, bar none, well; you're blind. Future pro.

Amir Williams, 6'10, C, Detroit Country Day : Earlier in the year, Williams participated in my Show Your Heart Classic against Detroit Southeastern, and he showed his full package. When he does that, his game is very effective at this level. A defensive phenom no matter the game because of his length, size, and timing, his effect on the game will be felt no matter what. He is also a hungry rebounder, who attacks the glass. Those are two big positives that you'd like every big man to have in their game, once the offensive part of his game becomes more consistent, we could be looking at another McDonald's All American out of the Country Day program.

Denzel Valentine, 6'5, Wing, Lansing Sexton, SOPH : He's apart of a very strong nucleus of Sexton sophomores, and he's a player. He is the best passer in the 2012 class, and he sees the court better than most anyone in Michigan. He's not very quick or fast and that will hurt his potential, as he can't guard a perimeter prospect of high major ability at this time. He's not the biggest scorer in the world, but his production is definitely felt in other areas. One to watch down the road.

Anthony Clemmons, Jr. , 6'1, PG, Lansing Sexton, SOPH : He really has big time potential, and could end up being the best one out of Sexton's loaded 2012 class. Clemmons is a very capable scorer and is dynamite in the open floor and transition. He has a nice floater shot that he uses to his advantage. Willing passer, but could do a better job setting up his teammates and distributing the basketball. Looks the part of a future Division One guard.

Class C & D

Michael Talley, Jr. , 5'9, PG, Melvindale Business & Technology, DUQUESNE : He's a bad, bad boy. Electric scorer, is a blur with the ball, and is a knockdown shooter from deep. Will be effective from day one at the college level, picked the perfect level for his abilities. Was the best player on the best team in Class C. Next step to improving his game, is getting his teammates involved more.

Dwaun Anderson, 6'4, Wing, Suttons Bay, JR : He's definitely a very good player. His athleticism is through the roof. Not too many players statewide, regardless of class have the natural attributes that he possesses. With that being said, his skill level isn't there yet. He has virtually no right hand and doesn't have a steady jumper at this point. It is very hard to properly evaluate him because of the lack of talent around him and defenses key in on him. This summer will play a major role in the level he's recruited at.

Monte Morris, 6'0, PG, Flint Beecher, FRESHMAN : Outside of Steven Haney, there isn't a better freshman prospect in Michigan, that I've seen. Very heady player and a great distributor. Very good leader even at such a young age, he put his team on his back and carried them to the state semifinals. Can score right now with the best of them. Strength is a factor, but at 14 and still physically maturing that will come in time. If he keeps growing, which I full expect, it's all over.

Dorians Pride Tryouts!!

2010-03-23T12:03:00.001-07:00

Michigan's only Under Armour sponsored team-Dorian's Pride wants you to come tryout this Sunday, March 28th, at Saginaw High School. We will participate in tournaments in Ohio, Indiana, Kansas City, Phoenix, Myrtle Beach, Detroit, and other places. Lamarr Woodley from the Pittsburgh Steelers is our other sponsor.

Benefits to playing for Pride:

-Get exposure! We will travel all of July and be seen by the top programs in the country. Participants in our program last year received offers from Michigan St, Ohio St, Indiana, Providence, Xavier, Oakland (MI), Cleveland St, and other D1 schools as well as D2, D3, and Juco schools because of the exposure that Pride provided.

-Great coaches-Tim McCormick our 17s Red Coach is a former NBA Player, McDonalds All American, and College All American at Michigan. Our 17s White Coaches, Al Pipkins, Sr is the former head coach at Carrolton High School and Andy Erlwein is an assistant at Rochester Adams. Our 16s coach, DeAndre Clement, led his 15u team last year to many Championships, Final 4, and Elite 8 appearances, as well as the a win over the #1 nationally ranked Spiece Indy Heat 15s. Our 15s coach, Steven Haney, SR is a former D1 player himself, an assistant coach at East Lansing. No other program in Michigan have the coaches that we have... you will develop and get better with us!

-Play with some of the best talent in the state... We fully expect Michigan's top talent to participate in the program this spring/summer.

-Opportunity to get invited to the Under Armour Best of the Best Top 70 Skills Academy, in Atlanta, GA, June 4-6. Which will be the top invite only, free of charge event in America this year!

17s Tryouts (2 Teams-Up to 24 Players Can Make Teams) - 2:30-4:30
16s Tryouts (1 Team-Up to 12 Players Can Make Teams) 4:30-6:00
15s Tryouts (1 Team- Up to 12 Players Can Make Teams) 6:00-7:30

Tryouts will start on time and end promptly. Please get to tryouts early in time to register and to be ready to play! There will be a $20 non-refundable tryout fee!

If you have any other questions or concerns please call, Dorian's Pride Director of Operations Christian Vaughn-Dawkins at 989.493.4317 or email at LOYDEnterprises@hotmail.com

THE SUMMER IS OURS!

Arthur Hill v. Mt. Pleseant Class A Regional Final Recap

2010-03-22T22:29:00.000-07:00

SAGINAW -- Arthur Hill’s boy’s basketball team is looking very good right now, and it’s for one reason -- and that reason isn’t star PG Maurice Jones. The Arthur Hill team’s complementary players accept their roles and don’t try to play outside of their boundaries. It’s a trait most high school teams, as well as college and pro teams lack. The Lumberjacks get it, and now they are in Class A's final eight teams.

You could tell the Lumberjacks were ready for action by the way they came out of the gates last Wednesday against Mt. Pleasant. Kwincy Tucker, an athletic 6’4 wing, who is also the younger brother of former Arthur Hill All-American Darquavis Tucker, scored 7 of The Hill’s first 9 points. He capped it off with a big time alley-oop, and also had two long jumpers from both wings. Arthur Hill’s pressure also had the Oilers intimidated. It seemed as they picked up two 10-second violations and struggled to get the ball over half-court, when they did, 6’9 Soph Jordan Hare was there to block their shots. On the good side, the Oilers were only down 15-9 after one quarter, mainly because of Trey Zeigler attacking the basket and scoring.

To start the second, Trey threw down a downright nasty slam over the top of Hare, cutting the lead to 15-11 for the Lumberjacks. Once again the little things came back to bite the Lumbjeracks as they didn’t box Jordan Hare out, and he scored 4 of the next 6 points, one off a slam. After that kids like Dell Simon, Tyler Dwyer, Chandler Young, and Wesley Wilson, all contributed. To end the half the score was 32-21.

During the first half, Maurice Jones, effortlessly created for his teammates, in a way, quite frankly only he can do. In the second half he made it clear he was taking over, and pretty much dominated scoring and dishing throughout the rest of the game. Once Pookie put his mind to taking over the game, he did, and the rest is history. Pookie tossed three straight alley-oops to Jordan Hare to make the Lumberjacks lead 53-36 and the Oilers never threatened again.

GAME SYNOPSIS: Mt. Pleasant had a great season, and Trey Zeigler did all he could, but in the end the Lumberjacks are just more talented, and the Oilers didn’t have the horses to compete. After the first few minutes of the game this was evident.

V.I.P. IN THE HOUSE - Central Michigan head coach Ernie Zeigler was in the house to watch his son, Trey play. Not to be deterred, Providence head assistant coach Chris Davis was also in the house to see Zeigler and Mt. Pleasant point guard Matt Strickland, who Providence has also offered, and according to reports Providence has also offered Jordan Hare. An assistant coach from South Alabama was also there… he was scheduled for a in-home visit Thursday with former Arthur Hill big man Antoine Lundy, who has evolved to a Juco standout, and came to watch the game while in town.

PROSPECTS: Maurice Jones, 5’6, PG, Saginaw Arthur Hill - The USC commit was the top player on the floor all night Wednesday. At 5’6, Pookie is just a flat out warrior. When watching Arthur Hill play his leadership skills and basketball IQ is apparent, and at the end of the day you know the Lumberjacks are his team. He’s a flat out amazing high school player, and there is nothing else to really say about him, he usually dominates every time he hits the floor. He’s one of the best players from Saginaw in the last decade, and finished the night with 16 points and 11 assists unofficially.

Jordan Hare, 6’9, Soph, PF, Saginaw Arthur Hill- He will be in the conversation of the best sophomore in the state and rightfully so, because no player in his class possesses the physical gifts that he does. It’s the skills and mental aspect of the game that right now he is lacking. Right now he scores off of put-backs and alleys, which isn’t a bad thing, but for him to take the next step from prospect to elite player, he will need to establish a back to the basket game as well as a jump-shot. His main positives on the offensive end at this stage are he plays within himself. As I stated earlier, he isn’t the most polished scoring threat on the low block, and he doesn’t try to be, he rebounds, and basically gets hustle baskets right now. From a rebounding and defensive aspect, he’s very good right now, and absolutely ridiculous potential wise, as he is stupid long, and he’s not very strong, so he can get even better in these areas. High majors should definitely recruit him and he’s a Top 5 prospect in 2012 in Michigan, without a doubt.

Trey Zeigler, 6’5, Wing, Mt. Pleasant- The most positive thing I noticed about Trey Wednesday, is he doesn’t give up. In a game where lots of players have immense physical capabilities and talent, the kids with the right mentality are the ones who succeed the highest. Trey could have easily given up on his teammates and quit, but he fought all night long, and kept attacking, albeit sometimes unsuccessful but the effort was there. He also didn’t stop attacking when he was struggling from the free-throw line. He was very good on the glass, and basically unstoppable when he tried to get to the rack. He is a good, not great athlete, and showed this with his second quarter slam on Hare. His jump shot is a bit shaky, but he’s pretty good from mid-range. His ball handling skills are up to par and he is also a willing passer. The only glaring negative from this game was his free-throw shooting, absolutely dreadful, but something I expect to change in time. He finished the night with 20 points and 9 boards. Great career.

Matt Strickland, 6’1, PG, Mt. Pleasant- How important of a recruit is Trey Zeigler to the Providence Friars? The offered Matt Strickland to get him. Strickland is by no means a Big East player, and that’s not a knock on him, as he’s a very good high school point guard who’s extremely poised, and to be honest there are very few players in America every year who have Big East conference ability. Strickland is the cousin of Zeigler. One thing can be said about Strickland, the Oilers don’t go on that 15 game win streak or make it to the regional final without him. Yes, he’s a player. He’s a very good passer, who always keeps his head up, and makes the right plays the majority of the time. He has a decent long ball, and a high bball IQ. He is also pretty long for a PG, and I always like lefty players no matter the position. Great season for the California transfer.

BOTB is Back!

2010-03-22T22:27:00.001-07:00

Best of the Best Prep Basketball Scouting returns! We will cover the rest of the Michigan High School Boys Basketball state tournament, and will give you the rundown on the top players in Michigan and beyond! Tune in to the website regularly, as every day you can expect something to be posted!

Styles3 Elite Showcase:Report

2009-11-06T16:53:00.000-08:00

This report is a little overdue, but nonetheless here it is. On October 17-18, I ran the Styles3 Elite Showcase, in honor of my younger brother Dorian Dawkins. The talent in Midland, MI at Northwood University was tremendous. Many thanks have to be sent out to the awesome staff that kept the event going, and the coaches were amazing; without them the event wouldn't have been impossible. Below is my observations from the weekend:

-Dwaun Anderson, the 6'3 SG from Suttons Bay (MI) could very well be the best player in the loaded class of 2011 in Michigan. He is stupid athletic, has a nice shot from outside, gets in his opponents chest on D, and is extremely intense. He went at it hard in the drills as well. Would like to see him play in a game setting. High major all the way.

-Tommie McCune, the 6'8 F from Saginaw (MI) has potential for days. Now he's starting to turn that potential into production. The mid-range jumper is money. The 3-ball is feathery, and he's as athletic as ever-and will dunk on you with ease. Once he becomes quicker, he will be a full-time SF, being able to guard the wing is something he needs to work on. High major, and another who could claim the #1 spot in 2011 in Michigan.

-Matt Costello, the 6'8 PF from Bay City Western (MI) is a coaches dream. He plays hard, he plays smart, he converts on everything he is supposed to, and he's not a project. This kid is good right now. One of the best shot blockers in the state, and his range is extending to the three point line now. His potential is crazy, could be the most productive big man in Michigan this year. Top 2 in 2012 in Michigan.

-Tommie McCune gets all the credit in 2011 from Saginaw High, but don't sleep on, 6'2 G Marquavis Ford, 6'6 Wing Trey Babers, and 6'0 G Evellis McGee. All are D1 prospects, and all played well at camp. Ford is the best shooter in Michigan for 2011, Babers gets better and taller every day, and McGee is a killer, coming to take your heart out every game.

-Detroit Pershing will be loaded again, if 6'7 Sr Juwan Howard (Western Michigan), 6'7 Sr PF Raymoan McAfee, 6'0 Sr G Kiedez Foster, and 6'3 Soph G Sherron Dorsey-Walker continue to play like they did in camp. Walker is someone who hasn't seen a shot he didn't like, but he makes a good amount. Howard is as confident as they come, and is Michigan's #1 trash talker, but he backs it up, McAfee is a major sleeper and is a D1 kid, and Foster can fill it up from deep.

-Isaiah Sykes, the 6'5 Wing from Detroit Denby is a high major talent. Does he have high major skill, that remains up for debate, but he gets the job done, and I'd be surprised if he didn't go high major when its all said and done. He can handle the rock, and pass very well for his size, and he's athletic. When he fine tune the J, look out.

-Michael Hundley, the 6'9 PF from Detroit Renaissance, will be a high major. He is another kid in 2011, who is a major sleeper but he is good. He's long, plays hard, blocks shots, rebounds, and converts down low. If he can just get stronger, he will be a beast. His high school coach, Cameron Nichols, gets the job done, and his travel team coach, Tim McCormick, is one of the best in the business. Don't be surprised to see him shoot up the rankings. Another Renaissance player, Chene Phillips, a 6'2 Sr played extremely well, and I wouldn't be surprised if he makes First Team all PSL this year.

-Sleeper alert: Derrick Barden. The 6'3 Wing from Detroit Denby is one of the best 2010 wings in the state. Before camp, I had never even heard of him. The MAC schools in Michigan, should be all over him. He's tough as nails, rebounds, scores, defends, he does it all. Mix him in with Isaiah Sykes, and Denby will be tough. 6'7 SR Brandon Williams, also was a beast all day long Saturday. Low D1s, and D2's should be beating down Brandon's door.

-Alex Gauna, the 6'9 (and growing) PF from Eaton Rapids, is as laid back as they come. But few face up 4's in the Midwest can shoot like him. The 2010 Michigan St commit will be a great addition to the 2010 MSU recruiting class because he's a guy that will play for Tom Izzo and blossom. He's not the toughest right now, but Izzo will bring it out of him, he has the skills.

-Young guns: Watch out for these 4 2013 prospects: 6'3 Wing JD Tisdale of Flint Northern, 5'10 PG Richie Lewis of Flint Northern, 5'9 Charles Tucker of Lansing Eastern, and 5'10 Derrick Walton of Chandler Park Academy. Tisdale may be the least known right now, but may have the most potential of the 3. Tucker and Walton already have big reps across the circuit, for being elite PG's; and they didn't disappoint at the camp. Lewis will benefit everyday in practice by playing against BOTB's #2 PG in 2011 Shaq Smith of Flint Northern, and to be honest, Lewis is good enough now, that Smith will benefit as well.

-Kellon McCormick, the 6'6 2012 Wing from Notre Dame Prep, may not be as big as his dad Tim right now, but expect him to keep growing, and getting better. McCormick is already one of the top 2012 Wing's in the state, and one of the elite shooters. He launches the 3 ball with ease, and more often than not, he's money. Watch out.

More to come soon.

-

Brandan Kearney...headed to...

2009-11-02T22:19:00.000-08:00

-From all the information I have gathered the past week or so, I would be very surprised if Brandan Kearney, a 6'5 JR G from Detroit Southeastern doesn't select Michigan State tomorrow. According to sources close to the situation, Kentucky made a late push, to try to delay the commitment of Kearney but the Wildcats didn't offer. Michigan, was once the leader for Kearney, but when Carlton Brundidge, a 6'0 JR G from Southfield committed to the Wolverines, things changed. Ohio State has also offered, and Kearney is also considering Georgetown and Minnesota. Stay tuned for more info!

Payne to...MSU?

2009-10-28T20:43:00.000-07:00

-In the last 20 minutes, two very informed sources have told me they feel Adreian Payne, the 6'9 C from Dayton, OH/Jefferson will go to Michigan State. Word is another staff in the running also feels he will go to Michigan State. Now, none of this may correct, and tomorrow he may end up committing to West Virginia or Kentucky, but right now with the info I've gathered, I'm feeling pretty good about saying he'll be a Spartan. If I'm right, Payne who has the potential to be a pro, will help the Spartans down low next year. He's super athletic, very long, can run, jump, just has to put it all together. And that's something Tom Izzo, Bob Huggins, John Calipari, or Sean Miller, would help him do. Payne is a Top 20 2010 player nationally by BOTB. Stay tuned for an announcement tomorrow.

-In other news, 6'7 Kenny Kaminski from Medina, OH/High was offered by Ohio State last weekend. Third big ten offer for the elite 2012 forward prospect.

-My Styles3 Elite Showcase report will be posted soon. Have gotten sidetracked lately.

Styles3 Elite Showcase

2009-10-18T21:21:00.001-07:00

There was an abundance of talent at my Styles3 Elite Showcase this weekend! Numerous players were discovered, and many top ranked name guys came out over two days! Expect a report soon! Dwaun Anderson, the 6'4 Wing from Suttons Bay in the 2011 class proved, there isn't a better wing prospect in Michigan in 2011 and he's a Top 5 player statewide, and that may be being modest!

Updates

2009-10-13T22:32:00.000-07:00

I have been extremely busy putting together the Styles 3 Elite Showcase, which will be held October 17, 18 at Northwood University in Midland, Michigan. This will be a truly fantastic event. A few nuggets will be put on the blog this week, and when the camp report is finished, I will get back to posting more info. Here is a few things for today:

-Michigan State is the new leader for 6'5 2011 G Brandan Kearney from Detroit Southeastern. Kearney was recently in Colorado this past weekend for the USA U16 National Team Practice, Kearney has the potential to be a impact player at the next level. More will come on Kearney.

-Michigan will have two big time D1 wings on campus this weekend. 6'7 2010 Wing Devin Oliver from Kalamazoo Central, and 6'4 Wing Dwaun Anderson of Suttons Bay. Schools like Utah, Oakland and others have offered Anderson, and Oliver is being recruited by high majors, mid majors, and low majors.

-A list of players for the Midnight Madness festivities will be released soon (Wed or Thurs) by BOTB, for numerous schools.

-Central Michigan, picked up a big commitment today from 6'7 2010 PF Colin Voss from East Grand Rapids (MI). Voss is a beast inside, and will be a factor at the MAC level, in my opinion. If CMU can add Trey Zeigler from Mt Pleasant to go along with Voss, and 6'1 PG Derek Jackson from Cleveland Benedictine, the Chippewas will be a force in the MAC, and will put itself in contention to seriously recruit 6'4 Dwaun Anderson from Suttons Bay (MI) in the 2011 class.

More to come very, very soon.

Recruits at MSU/UM Game

2009-10-04T07:42:00.000-07:00

The MSU staff had two recruits on hand for the premier Michigan football game of the year, that were on official visits in 6'2 Keith Appling from Detroit, MI/Pershing and 6'10 man child Adreian Payne from Dayton, OH/Jefferson. If Payne ever got a killer instinct he would be a one and done type talent.

Other recruits:

Jeremiah Davis 6'2 PG Muncie, IN/Central 2011
Tommie McCune 6'8 F Saginaw, MI/High 2011
Patrick Lucas-Perry 5'10 PG Flint, MI/Powers 2011
Kenny Kaminski 6'7 Wing Medina, OH/High 2012
Matt Costello 6'8 PF Bay City, MI/Western 2012
Marquavis Ford 6'2 G Saginaw, MI/High 2011
Trey Babers 6'6 Wing Saginaw, MI/High 2011
Brandan Kearney 6'5 SG Detroit, MI/Southeastern 2011
Percy Gibson 6'8 PF Detroit, MI/Southeastern 2011
Amir Williams 6'10 C Detroit, MI/Country Day 2011

Updates

2009-09-27T11:24:00.021-07:00

-Maurice Jones, a 5'7 PG from Saginaw Arthur Hill, committed to USC. Jones overcame his size limitations to reach the high-major level. Jones committed to USC after taking a official visit there this weekend. Jones is the #2 PG in the 2010 class in Michigan by BOTB.

-Michael Gilchrist, the #1 JR in America by BOTB, was on the Michigan campus this weekend. Gilchrist is thought to be a Kentucky lean with Villanova in the running as well. This is a pretty nice step for the Wolverines getting Gilchrist on campus, Gilchrist recently visited the Rutgers campus as well.

-Matt Costello, the #1 2012 prospect in Michigan by BOTB visited Ohio State yesterday for the football game. Ohio State is picking up their interest in the big man, who will have a heated recruitment. Costello isn't expected to decide until his Sr year.

-Ray Lee, the #1 PG in the 2010 Class State in Michigan recently transferred from Robichaud to Detroit Cass Tech. Robichaud was a good team with Lee, and Cass Tech will also benefit because of the transfer. Cass Tech was expected to be a top team in the PSL this year along with Pershing, Denby, and Southeastern, and expect this transfer to help even more. Cass Tech which has a stronger 2010 class, will add Lee after the second semester.

-Two Saginaw High JR's 6'8 Tommie McCune and 6'6 Trey Babers have seen continued movement in their recruitment. Indiana, Kansas and others are expected in open gym today to see McCune, and Babers visited Bowling Green yesterday, and their staff loves him. McCune recently picked up a offer from Providence.

Updates

2009-09-27T11:24:00.020-07:00

Updates

2009-09-27T11:24:00.018-07:00

Updates

2009-09-27T11:24:00.017-07:00

Updates

2009-09-27T11:24:00.016-07:00

Updates

2009-09-27T11:24:00.014-07:00

Ohio Player Updates

2009-09-23T21:09:00.000-07:00

BOTB's Ohio Correspondent Kurt Stubbs supplied us with the following info:

Adreian Payne (6’10/2010) of Dayton Jefferson is down to five schools including Michigan State, West Virginia, Arizona, Kansas, and Kentucky. Payne will take an official visit to each school before making any decisions.

Stevie Taylor (5’9/2011) point guard of Gahanna Lincoln High School has offers from Akron, Miami (OH), Ohio University, George Mason, and Montana State.

Taylor visited Akron this past weekend for the Indiana football game.

Chane Behanan (6’7/2011) power forward of Bowling Green High School (KY) has offers from Cincinnati, Western Kentucky, and Oklahoma State. He is currently a soft verbal to UC.

Behanan visited Western Kentucky two weeks ago and took an unofficial to the University of Kentucky this past weekend. According to sources, Behanan was blown away by the trip to Lexington.

He is receiving strong interest from Mississippi State, West Virginia, Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Penn State, Purdue, Xavier, and Ohio State.

Bob Huggins of WVU was in yesterday along with Travis Ford of Oklahoma State, and Rick Stansbury of Mississippi State will be in Bowling Green today.

Aaron White (6’8/2011) wing forward of Strongsville High School has offers from Akron and James Madison. White is also receiving strong intrigue from Wisconsin, Penn State, and Butler.

White will be visiting Butler this weekend.

Paul Honigford (6’8/2011) wing forward of Sugarcreek Garaway has offers from Michigan State and Ohio University. Honigford took an unofficial to Ohio State the weekend of the OSU/Navy football game.

Trey Burke (5’11/2011) point guard of Columbus Northland High School has offers from Butler, Ohio University, Akron, Miami (OH), Cleveland State, Kent State, Stephen F. Austin, and James Madison.

Burke visited Notre Dame this past Saturday for the ND/Michigan State football game adding to visits taken to Ohio University, Cincinnati, and Penn State.

Kyle Molock (6’1/2012) point guard of Dublin Coffman has offers from Akron, Florida International, Georgia State, Ohio University, and St. Joseph’s.

Molock is also earning heavy interest from Ohio State, Notre Dame, Wake Forest, and Purdue.

Purdue will be at Coffman today to watch Molock work out, Michigan State and St. Joseph’s will be in tomorrow, and Notre Dame was in last week.

Jalen Robinson (6’7/2012) power forward of Columbus Northland has offers from Ohio University, Kent State, West Virginia, James Madison, and Akron.

Robinson has taken unofficial visits to Ohio State and West Virginia.

Updates

2009-09-20T20:18:00.000-07:00

-Maurice Jones, a 5'7 PG from Saginaw, MI/Arthur Hill got his first high major offer today as USC offered him tonight. Jones will take a official visit this week to USC. Kevin O'Neil of USC came to watch Jones in an open gym today in Saginaw. Jones is the #2 PG in Michigan by BOTB, and a Top 5 player in Michigan's 2010 class. Jones is also looking at St. Bonaventure and Duquesne.

-Tommie McCune, a 6'8 PF from Saginaw, MI/High attracted Al Skinner head coach of Boston College and John Beilein head coach of Michigan today, as well as assistants from St. Bonaventure and Detroit. Kansas will be coming to see McCune in an open gym this week.

-Trey Babers, a 6'6 Jr Wing from Saginaw, MI/High is very close to picking up a offer from Duquesne. Babers is also receiving recruiting interest from Michigan, Iowa, Cleveland St, Dayton, Toledo, and a host of other schools.

-Brandan Kearney's top schools at this point includes Michigan, Ohio State, Michigan State, Syracuse, Notre Dame, Kentucky, and Georgetown. He will be visiting Kentucky soon. Kearney is a 6'5 Jr SG.

-Iowa and Providence have been in open gym to see 6'8 Jr Dan Chilcote of Jackson, MI/Lumen Christi. Chilcote is one of the more skilled forwards in Michigan, and has a chance to be really good.

-Ryan Majerle, a 6'4 Jr Wing from Rockford will attract Wisconsin Green-Bay, Western Michigan, Central Michigan, Ball state, Oakland, and Valpo in an open gym this week. Majerle would be a mid-major steal.

-Carlton Brundidge, a 6'1 Jr G from Southfield, MI/High is said to be favoring Michigan, and may be committing soon. Brundidge is one of the elite guards statewide in the 2010 class.

-Junior Lomomba, a 6'5 Wing from Madison, WI/Memorial and one of the top players in the country for the 2012 class already has offers from, Marquette, Florida, Baylor, Illinois, Oklahoma, Iowa, Florida State, and Indiana State. Junior is a Top 25 player in America for the 2012 class.

Kaminski Update

2009-09-18T03:56:00.000-07:00

-6'7 2012 Wing Kenny Kaminski from Medina, OH/High will have Thad Matta from Ohio State and Bob Huggins from West Virginia to watch him play today. Kaminski holds offers from Michigan State and Indiana. Kaminski is one of the elite sophomores nationally, and his game is steadily improving.

Updates

2009-09-16T21:17:00.000-07:00

-6'8 Soph Big Man Matt Costello has recieved an offer today from Greg Kampe and staff at Oakland. Oakland is Costello's first offer. This is a very good move by the Golden Grizzlies staff, as although Costello will be a high major player, it doesn't hurt to get in early and try to recruit him. Costello is also recieving interest from high major schools all across the Midwest. Purdue will be up for an open gym soon.

-6'8 Jr F Tommie McCune from Saginaw High will have Providence and Minnesota at Saginaw High tommorow to watch him play in a open gym. McCune is getting interest from a school in almost every high major conference. McCune is the #1 Jr in Michigan by BOTB.

-6'5 Freshman Wing Steven Haney, Jr will visit Michigan this weekend for the football game. Haney is a freshman at East Lansing High, and will be one of the better freshmen in the Midwest. Haney has recently visited Michigan State, and is the nephew of the greatest point guard of all time, Magic Johnson.

-6'1 Soph PG Ray Lee recently met with Tom Izzo and Mark Montgomery recently and they also watched him workout in an open gym. Lee is picking up heavy interest from the Spartans. Lee is the #1 PG prospect in the state for the 2012 class. He will be recruited by high majors from all across the Midwest. More info on Lee to come.

-Expect some big news stories to come from BOTB soon!

Open Gym Updates

2009-09-15T04:03:00.000-07:00

-Saginaw High has had tons of visitors in their open gyms this week. Some of the schools that have visited include Michigan State, Michigan, Xavier, Iowa, Purdue, Cleveland State, Bowling Green, Western Michigan, Central Michigan, Dayton, Saginaw Valley, and others. All schools have come away extremely impressed by 6'8 F Tommie McCune from Saginaw High. Tommie has the skill package, athleticism, length, jump-shot, and defensive ability not found in too many Juniors across America. You would be hard pressed to find another 2011 player in Michigan who is better. 6'5 Jr Wing Trey Babers, cousin of Michigan State's Draymond Green is also receiving increased interest from Toledo, Bowling Green, Cleveland State, and Iowa. Expect Iowa to come hard on this one, he's a sleeper. Saginaw High's football players cant play yet, but when they get out there, expect the Trojans open gyms to be even more intense.

Amir Williams Recruitment Update

2009-09-13T15:12:00.000-07:00

Michigan's #1 Center in the 2011 class at this point by BOTB is Amir Williams. Williams is a 6'10 C from Detroit Country Day, who plays with aggression and is a very adept shot-blocker, and rebounder. He can also score when he gets the ball down low on the post. Williams visited Ohio State this weekend for the football game against USC, and according to Williams it was a great visit. According to Williams he currently holds offers from Michigan, Michigan State, Ohio State, Miami-FL, Arizona, Providence, Wake Forest, Notre Dame, and Cincinnati. Williams currently doesn't have a favorite. Expect this to be an intense recruitment for the big fella.

Recruits at Michigan v Notre Dame Game

2009-09-13T14:58:00.000-07:00

The Michigan vs Notre Dame football game, showcased two legendary programs, and two that are getting back to how good they used to be. It was a very exciting game, and the Michigan staff hosted tons of elite players:

Trey Zeigler Sr 6'5 G Mt. Pleseant

Casey Prather Sr 6'5 Wing Jackson, TN/South Side

Tim Hardaway, Jr Sr 6'4 SG Miami, FL/Palmetto U-M COMMIT

Tom Droney Sr 6'4 G Sewickley, PA/Academy

Brandan Kearney Jr 6'5 SG Detroit Southeastern

Percy Gibson Jr 6'8 PF Detroit Southeastern

Ed Brown Jr 6'3 Wing Detroit Southeastern

Trey Babers Jr 6'5 SG Saginaw High

Tommie McCune Jr 6'8 PF Saginaw High

Markus Crider Jr 6'5 Wing Wayne, OH/Huber Heights

Justin Gant Jr 6'8 PF Terre Haute, IN/North Vigo

Carlton Brundidge Jr 6'1 G Southfield High

Ray Lee Soph 6'1 PG Robichaud

Cameron Fowler Soph 6'0 PG U-D Jesuit

Kellon McCormick Soph 6'7 F Pontiac Notre Dame Prep

Austin Burgett Soph 6'8 PF Avon, IN/High

Gary Harris Soph 6'3 PG Hamilton Southeastern-IN

Jacoby Bledsoe Soph 5'10 PG Hamilton Southeastern-IN

RJ Hunter Soph 6'2 PG Indianapolis, IN/Pike

Yogi Farrell Soph 5'10 PG Indianapolis, IN/Park Tudor

Denzel Watts Fresh 5'10 PG Flint Carman-Ainsworth

SUBSCRIBE!

2009-09-10T21:33:00.002-07:00

All fans, coaches, parents, etc subscribe now! BOTB is quickly becoming the one of the most foremost authorities on basketball recruiting, and now is the time to subscribe to receive our newsletters of brilliant information. Subscribers will receive our exclusive player rankings, reports from contributors from other states, rumors, player interviews, player diaries, team previews, and event reports. Subscribe today! You can pay online to your left, and information will be sent to you!

Updates

2009-09-10T21:15:00.001-07:00

-Detroit Southeastern which features one of the best 2011 contingents in Michigan had Michigan State, Michigan, Syracuse, and Cleveland State in their open gym yesterday. The high majors where there to see 6'5 Jr G Brandan Kearney and 6'8 Jr PF Percy Gibson. Cleveland State was also in looking at 6'3 Jr SG Ed Brown, who recently transferred in from Detroit Finney. 6'5 2010 Sr Wing Johnny Lindsay also should be a factor for Southeastern this school year. Lindsay is extremely athletic, but needs to improve on skills. Lindsay will be recruited by D1s, and D2s.

-6'9 2011 Jr C Darren Washington will visit Penn State tomorrow. Washington is one of the elite big men in the 2011 class statewide by BOTB, along with 6'10 C Amir Williams of Country Day, 6'9 C Trey McDonald of Battle Creek Central, 6'9 PF Michael Hundley of Detroit Renaissance, 6'8 Jr PF Percy Gibson of Detroit Southeastern, 6'9 Jason Pretzer of Jenison, and 6'8 Jr PF Jalen Reynolds of Livonia Clarenceville. Washington was at Detroit Southeastern last year, but has now transferred to Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard.

-Although at this time BOTB may rank Amir Williams as the #1 C in the 2011 class statewide and Percy Gibson at the #1 PF statewide, don't be surprised if Trey McDonald and Jalen Reynolds take over that spot in the near future. Both McDonald and Reynolds are high majors. Reynolds holds an offer from Dayton, and other Midwest schools are on him as well. A recruiting update on McDonald and Reynolds is forthcoming.

-Casey Prather, the 6'5 Wing from Jackson, TN/Northside will be in on his official visit to Michigan this weekend for the Notre Dame game. Prather is one of the top athletes in the country and would be a great addition to Michigan's 2010 recruiting class if they can lock him up. Prather is a Top 70 player nationally by BOTB. Other visitors for Michigan's game will be released soon, but I have confirmed players from a few states to be there. One 2012 kid who I think will be bigtime from Indiana, but is a sleeper right now, will also be up for sure. More info coming soon.

-Trey Babers, the 6'5 2011 wing from Saginaw High is starting to get some increasing recruiting interest. Michigan is recruiting him intensely and he will visit the campus on Saturday to see the Notre Dame game. Saturday morning Babers will also visit Toledo along with Saginaw High's other D1 recruits in the 2011 class, 6'8 F Tommie McCune and 6'1 G Marquavis Ford. Schools like Iowa, Purdue, Central Michigan, and others have also shown interest.

Player Recruitment Updates

2009-09-09T20:21:00.001-07:00

-Maurice Jones, BOTB's #2 PG in the state for the 2010 class in Michigan, had Toledo, St. Bonaventure, Oakland, and Ball State at Arthur Hill today for a open gym. The 5'6 PG gets it done on the court despite his size, and will be a very good college player at whichever school he chooses. If he was 6'0 he would be able to write his ticket. Jones will visit St. Bonaventure tomorrow on a official visit. The Bonnies may be in the lead according to sources, Jones has already proven he can play with anybody in the country, one of the highlights of the spring was when Jones dropped 30+ on the Boo Williams Summer League team at the Hensley Memorial in Ft. Wayne. Jones led the undermanned Reach Legends against a Boo Williams team that featured two North Carolina commits, a Duke player, and a Wake Forest commit.

-Kenny Kaminski, the 6'7 Wing from Medina, OH/High has officially received a offer from Tom Izzo and the Michigan State Spartans today. Kaminski is one of the youngest players since Izzo has been at the helm for the Spartans to receive a scholarship offer this early, Kaminski is a member of the 2012 class. Kaminski will also receive a offer Friday, from former Izzo staff member, Tom Crean, and the Indiana Hoosiers. Izzo and assistant Dwayne Stephens will be in Medina, OH tommorow to visit Kaminski and family. The Spartans could lock this one up early, Izzo was supposed to visit the Kaminski's Friday, but pushed it up a few days, which obviously shows Kaminski is a highly-regarded recruit. Indiana should be in Medina, Friday. West Virginia, Ohio State, and Michigan have also been in contact with Kaminski, as well as others.

-Coach Tom Izzo and the Spartan staff were out today as this was the first day that staff members from D1 schools could be on the road again, and visited arguably the top player in the state for the 2010 and 2011 class in Michigan, in 6'5 Sr Trey Zeigler of Mt. Pleasant and 6'8 Jr F Tommie McCune of Saginaw High. Both having Michigan State on their lists, and you could say the Spartans, are in the lead, or one of McCune's top schools. Toledo also visited McCune today, and Indiana, Xavier, Purdue, Ohio State, and others are expected to watch him play in open gyms soon. This weekend McCune will visit Toledo in the morning on Saturday, and then take in the Michigan/Notre Dame football game Saturday afternoon.

-C.J. Barksdale-a Top 75 player nationally in the 2011 class is being heavily recruited by high majors. Barksdale, a 6'7 PF from Danville, VA/George Washington is being recruited by Virginia Tech, Wake Forest, North Carolina, Florida, Alabama, and Oklahoma according to his travel team coach Tony Squire of the Richmond Squires. At this time Barksdale has no leader, Barksdale is a beast inside, who finishes everything down low. If he grows another inch or so, his stock will only continue to go up.

-Don't be surprised to see two commitments very soon from two of the top 10 PG's nationally in the 2010 class, by BOTB. I'm talking about, 5'10 Joe Jackson of Memphis, TN/White Station to Memphis and 5'10 Trevor Releford from Bishop Meige High School in Kansas to Alabama. Head coaches Josh Pastner of Memphis and Anthony Grant of Alabama both visited the two PG's today, and appear to be the strong leader for both. Watch out on those two!

-Bradley Beal, BOTB's #4 player nationally in the 2010 class, from St. Louis, MO/was visited today by Bill Self of the Kansas Jayhawks. Kansas seems to be firmly in Chaminade the thick of things for Beal. One thing is for sure, if they add Beal, Kansas will only improve, Beal is one of the more efficient scorers in the high school ranks today and he can kill you from mid-range, long range, or driving. When I saw him in Orlando playing up for the St. Louis Eagles at the Super Showcase, I was convinced he was a Top 5 guy in the country for the 2011 class, he flat out gets the job done.

Michigan State's Important Visitors this Weekend!

2009-09-08T20:07:00.000-07:00

Michigan State will be hosting two of the elite prospects in the country this weekend for the 2011 class, in Wayne Blackshear a 6'5 SG from Chicago, IL/Morgan Park and 6'8 Mike Shaw from Chicago DeLa Salle. Both have just left off a visit to Louisville, who has a chance to put together a recruiting class of Blackshear and Shaw, the top PG in the 2011 class nationally, Marquis Teague of Indianapolis Pike, Teague is a 6'1 phenom, and they have already locked up three commitments in 6'10 C Zach Price from Lakewood St. Edward's in Ohio, 6'10 C Michael Chandler and Ryan Taylor a 6'6 beast, both from Lawrence North in Indianapolis. All three of Louisville's commitments are Top 100 players, with Chandler being Top 20.

Blackshear and Shaw are a definite package deal, and Blackshear has been quoted saying Louisville is his leader. Michigan State, will try their best to change that this weekend. Blackshear is a Top 20 talent nationally, and Shaw is a Top 50 player nationally in BOTB's latest rankings. Blackshear and Shaw both play for the Mac Irvin Fire program, coached by Nick Irvin, who will accompany the two on their visit to Michigan State.

Dwaun Anderson, a 6'4 Wing from Suttons Bay High in Michigan will also unofficially visit Michigan State. Anderson is under the radar nationally but he is definitely a high major talent. The ultra athletic wing is a terrific slasher, and he has the potential to be a lock up defender and good scorer at the high major level. Anderson is a Top 5 player in Michigan's loaded 2011 class. Subscribe to BOTB for updated Michigan rankings!

Zach Price Verbals to Louisville

2009-09-08T19:49:00.001-07:00

Zach Price, the 6'10 2011 big man from Lakewood St. Edwards out of Ohio, the same school that produced Michigan State's Delvon Roe, former North Carolina player Jawad Williams, former PF for Henry Bibby at USC, Sam Clancy, and one of Bob Huggin's best PG's that he has coached Steve Logan who starred at Cincinnati, has committed to Rick Pitino and Louisville.

Don Anderson, of the King James Shooting Stars, Price's travel team stated by text that, "Zach felt like it was the right fit, and his parents did also,". Anderson also mentioned, Michigan State was scheduled to see him workout this Thursday, Price also was being recruited by Ohio state, Wake Forest, Wisconsin, Indiana, Miami (FL), Florida, and Xavier.

While Price gets a ton of notoriety and is a member of most services national Top 50 rankings, the best player out of Ohio in the 2011 class may end up being Jakarr Sampson, a 6'8 F from Akron, OH/St. Vincent St. Mary's. Anderson told BOTB that, Michigan State, Ohio State, Xavier, Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron, Pittsburgh, Washington and Miami (FL) are showing big time interest. Ohio State is expected to offer when Anderson and Sampson visits the campus in the near future. Sampson was at the Michigan State/Montana opening football game, along with Anderson and his parents and Jakarr reportedly loved the visit and loves everything about MSU. According to Anderson, Jakarr has the hunger to get better, and it was evident as he and Jakarr went through a individual workout in the MSU practice facility after the football game last Saturday.

Continue to follow BOTB as we will continue to give our readers great updates. For more rumors, excellent recruiting info, player rankings, player interviews, team previews, and event reports, subscribe to our newsletters on the side!

Ben Darling speaks

2009-09-07T17:59:00.000-07:00

Ben Darling, the father of Holt High School star Cole Darling gave a few reasons why his son Cole committed to Wright State today. During the phone interview with BOTB one thing was clear, the visit the Darling family took to Wright State, blew them away. The elder Darling stated that "Oakland was the leader for much of the recruitment, until we visited Wright State. We really like the Oakland staff, their players and facilities, but we really felt that Wright State was the right fit,". He continued to explain " A lot of times coaches, players, etc talk about the right fit, committing when things feel right, when you have the right fit, and Wright State was totally the right fit,". "We sat down as a family as well as with extended family, and when it came down to it we felt as if Wright State was the place to go,".

The family took a visit to Northeastern last week, and they were also heavily in the running as well as Western Michigan, Central Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Detroit, and of course Oakland.

Oakland is still heavily recruiting Saginaw Arthur Hill Sr PG Maurice Jones.

2012 Michigan Players Receiving Interest

2009-09-07T17:46:00.000-07:00

Two of Michigan's Top 5 players in the 2012 class are already receiving high major interest. 6'8 Matt Costello, who is the #1 2012 player in Michigan by BOTB, is receiving interest from Michigan St., Michigan, Iowa, Purdue, Ohio State, Cleveland State, Penn State, Marquette, Norte Dame, Detroit, and Providence. Costello and his family have already visited Michigan St, Ohio State, Cleveland State, and Purdue. Expect numerous high major schools to check out Costello in open gyms this week as colleges are now able to check out players workouts. High major offers should follow quickly.

Michigan's sleeper in the 2012 class is 6'5 SG Anton Wilson of Flint Carman-Ainsworth. Wilson was a killer for Team Pride's loaded 15u team the entire year. Wilson already holds a offer from Cleveland St, as they offered after seeing Wilson play in Louisville at the Kentucky Hoopfest in July. Michigan and Iowa are also showing interest.

Two Michigan Players Pick Schools!

2009-09-07T17:43:00.001-07:00

-6'7 Sr Wing Cole Darling of Holt committed to Wright State, over Northeastern, Oakland, Central Michigan and others. 5'11 Jr PG Jorddan Myrick of West Ottawa committed to Central Michigan, Jorddan was just on a unnofficial visit to Michigan last weekend. More to come on the two commitments, with quotes from those players, as well as their coaches.

Labor Day Updates

2009-09-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

-Isaiah Sykes, a 6'5 Sr G, Rashad Reeves, a 6'1 Sr G, and Brandon Williams, a 6'7 Sr F, will all transfer to Detroit Denby. Detroit Finney, was supposed to be a force in the PSL this year, with the seniors leading the way, but after the school shut down last year, and Coach Ray Reeves, Rashad's father, going to take the head coaching position at Detroit Community, it has sent a ripple effect through the entire PSL as players from the 2008-2009 Finney team have now joined other teams, and should help them a great deal this year. Sykes is a player who has schools like South Florida and Dayton recruiting him. Expect Denby to be much improved this year!

-Indiana picked up a commitment from Victor Oladipo from Dematha Catholic in Maryland. Oladipo was a do-everything player for the Team Takeover 17u squad who won the AAU Supershowcase in July this year. The 6'4 Wing is extremely athletic and is a very efficient slasher. Oladipo's name would be in most peoples National Top 150 list, but while he may not be ranked the highest, Oladipo is the kind on player you win with at the D1 level.

-Don't be surprised to see Big Ten powers, Michigan St. and Indiana throw out a official offer to 6'7 Soph Wing Kenny Kaminski from Medina, OH/High in the very near future, the Spartans have definitely turned up the heat on Kaminski, and he and his family met with Tom Izzo this weekend at the Montana State game. This will be a Big Ten battle regarding his recruitment as Ohio State, Purdue, and Iowa also tracked Kaminski's Team Pride 15u this July. Kaminski is a Top 30 type talent nationally in the 2012 class and with continued improvement, could go higher.

-Charles Tucker, Jr, who some consider the top 2013 prospect in Michigan, will attend Lansing Eastern high school according to Tucker. "Cha-Cha" as he is affectionally known struggled with his high school decision all summer. He actually played at the Tom Izzo Spartan Shootout in June with the Eastern team under Coach Rod Watts. I wouldn't be surprised to see Tucker start at PG from Day One at Eastern, and make a good one-two punch with 6'5 Jr F LaDante Henton, a Top 10 player in Michigan's 2011 class.

-James McAdoo, a 6'9 PF from Norfolk,VA/Christian committed to North Carolina this weekend. McAdoo is a player who is a beast on the boards, a terrific shot-blocker, and an efficient scorer down low. The sky is the limit for McAdoo, who is a Top 5 player in the country by BOTB. McAdoo plays in the summer for the loaded Boo Williams Summer League program.

-CVD

BK Video

2009-09-05T22:08:00.000-07:00

Brandan is one of the elite 2011 prospects in Michigan. He visited MSU this weekend and

will visit Michigan next weekend to take in the Norte Dame game. Should also be visiting

Kentucky in the near future to take in the Florida game. Brandan will play for new coach,

George Ward at Detroit Southeastern, who may have the top 2011 class in Michigan will,

Brandan, 6'8 Percy Gibson who has high major offers, 6'0 Davonte Carter, and 6'2 Ed

Brown, a transfer from Detroit Finney.

-CVD

Prospects flock to East Lansing

2009-09-05T16:10:00.000-07:00

The fall college football season started this weekend at Michigan St, and the MSU basketball staff opened up in a big way, bringing in many of the elite prospects in the state. Below are some of the elite players they brought in:

Trey Zeigler 6'5 Sr G Mt. Pleseant

Alex Gauna 6'8 Sr PF Eaton Rapids

Russell Byrd 6'6 Sr Wing Blackhawk Christian

Tommie McCune 6'8 Jr F Saginaw High

Jakarr Sampson 6'7 Jr F Akron St. Vincent St. Mary's

Alex Williams 6'3 Jr SG Benton Harbor

Brandan Kearney 6'5 Jr SG Detroit Southeastern

Percy Gibson 6'8 Jr PF Detroit Southeastern

Patrick Lucas-Perry 5'10 Jr PG Flint Powers

Javonte Hawkins 6'4 Soph Wing Flint Powers

Gary Harris 6'3 Soph PG Hamilton Southeastern (IN)

RJ Hunter 6'2 Soph PG Indianapolis Pike

Jacoby Bledsoe 5'10 Soph PG Hamilton Southeastern (IN)

Kenny Kaminski 6'7 Soph Wing Medina

Chris Harrison-Docks 5'10 Soph PG Okemos

Matt Costello 6'8 Soph PF Bay City Western

Steven Haney, JR 6'5 Fr Wing East Lansing

Charles Tucker, JR 5'9 Fr PG Lansing ?

Denzel Watts 5'11 Fr PG Flint Carman-Ainsworth

More info to come later about the game...

CVD

Updates September 1, 2009

2009-09-01T20:01:00.000-07:00

-Players, coaches, fans, everyone-visit my events website at www.loydenterprises.com. Living Out Your Dreams Enterprises, will take the circuit by storm this spring/summer as we have the camps, coaching clinics, conferences, and tournaments on the horizon for the 2009-2010 year! Living Out Your Dreams Enterprises, will take part in numerous business ventures and basketball is the first thing we are putting efforts into. Our first event will be the Styles3 Elite Showcase, held at Northwood University in Midland, MI, the event will be held October 17-18 and will have some of the top 2010-2013 players in the country at the event! We will have a great staff, the camp will be directed by Lou Dawkins, head coach of perenial powerhouse Saginaw High School, and will have other elite high school head coaches from around Michigan and surrounding states as well as travel team coaches and colleges coaches (non D1) working the camp as well. Tim McCormick, former McDonald's All American, All American at Michigan, and NBA Player, who is now the director of the NBA Top 100 Camp, travel team coach, college basketball analyst, and motivational speaker will be the camp's guest speaker. The top player in every high school class (2010-2013) in the state of Michigan has already registered for the camp! In order to register click on http://loydenterprises.com/Styles3EliteShowcase.html, you can now pay online. Scouting services that have commited to attend include Rivals Hoops, ESPN.com, Bank Hoops, Inside Preps, MSU Scout.com, Next Generation Sports, and of course Best of the Best Scouting, others will also confirm soon. This will truly be a big time event! The camp is filling up fast!

-BOTB National Rankings for classes of 2010-2013

2010
1. Harrison Barnes Ames High-IA 6'7 Wing
2. Jared Sullinger Northland-OH 6'8 PF OHIO STATE
3. Brandon Knight Pinecrest Prep-FL 6'2 PG
4. Kyrie Irving St. Patrick's-NJ 6'2 PG
5. Will Barton Brewster Academy-NH 6'6 Wing

2011
1. Michael Gilchrist St. Patrick's-NJ 6'7 Wing
2. Austin Rivers Winter Park-FL 6'4 G
3. Marquis Teague Pike-IN 6'2 PG
4. Bradley Beal Chaminade-MO 6'5 SG
5. James McAdoo Norfolk Christian-VA 6'9 PF

2012
1. Andre Drummond St. Thomas More-CT 6'11 C
2. Dajuan Coleman Jamesville-Dewitt-NY 6'9 C
3. Shabazz Muhammad Bishop Gorman-NV 6'4 Wing
4. LJ Rose Second Baptist-TX 6'2 PG
5. Justin Anderson Montrose Christian-MD 6'5 Wing

2013
1. Peter Jok Des Moines, IA 6'5 Wing
2. Julius Randle Plano, TX 6'9 PF
3. Aaron Harrison Houston, TX 6'5 Wing
4. Nigel Williams-Goss Findlay Prep-NV 6'2 PG
5. Derrick Fenner Springdale, MD 6'5 Wing

Michigan Rankings coming soon, Full Rankings only sent to subscribers! Subscribe Now!

-Christian Vaughn-Dawkins
loydenterprises@hotmail.com

3 Team Pride products visit Purdue, participate in Elite Camp

2009-08-31T20:58:00.000-07:00

-Team Pride, arguably the top travel team in Michigan, had a great July and coaches from all over the country have begun to track Pride prospects. Basically every school in the Big Ten are now recruiting Pride players. Purdue, has been one of the most aggressive. Purdue is heavily recruiting BOTB's #1 player in the state for the class of 2011 and 2012 in Tommie McCune the 6'8 F from Saginaw High and Matt Costello the 6'9 PF from Bay City Western who runs the court like a deer. Saginaw High's 6'5 Trey Babers a Jr Wing is also getting Purdue interest as well as interest from Iowa and Michigan.

All three played very well at camp and the Purdue staff will continue to monitor their progress and recruit them diligently. BOTB will keep you updated on these and other players recruitment!

-Christian Vaughn-Dawkins

Loydenterprises@hotmail.com

Recent News

2009-08-25T15:53:00.000-07:00

-BOTB Is Back! We will be transitioning a lot coming up! We will have a new website, with videos, articles, rankings, etc. We haven't been posting on here, but we have been keeping up with the basketball world while we have been gone. Expect big things coming soon!

-In Michigan high school basketball news- Richaud Pack from Birmingham Seaholm committed to Isaiah Thomas and Florida International. Isaiah is bringing in a very good class headlined by 2010 high major type players 6'9 Domoniqu Chatham e Ferguson of, VA/Hargrave Military and 5'9 Phil Taylor of Marietta, GA/Wheeler. Pack played on the Team Detroit 17u squad this July that featured Ferguson in Las Vegas. Pack is a dead-eye shooter that will be a definite zone buster in college. The 6'2 SG was getting mid major interest.

-According to Friends 4 Life Coach Eugene White, he and Anton Grady, a 6'7 F from Cleveland, OH/Central Catholic visited Michigan State last weekend. The interest seems to be there for both parties, and White said MSU is a great school! Grady is ranked low by our competitors, but he is easily a top 50 player nationally and the top 2011 kid in Ohio.

-CVD

Showdown in the Valley Report

2009-06-10T14:19:00.000-07:00

17u Champion-Team Detroit Over Team Pride MVP:Trey Zeigler
16u Champion-Saginaw All or Nothing Over Team Pride MVP: Marquavis Ford
15u Champion-Team Pride Over Parallel 45 MVP: Kenny Kaminski
14u Champion-Team Pride/Superfriends Over Saginaw All or Nothing MVP:Steven Haney
13u Champion-Team Pride Over Flint Affiliation MVP:Malik Hamilton
12u Champion-JRich Ballers Over Team Pride
11u Champion-Flint Affiliation
10u Champion-JRich Ballers Over Saginaw Panthers

Top Players Over the Weekend

Team Detroit 17u:

Trey Zeigler 6'5 G Mt. Pleseant
Walter Pitchford 6'9 C Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central
Corey Petros 6'10 C Utica Eisenhower
Maurice Jones 5'7 PG Arthur Hill
Richaud Pack 6'2 SG Birmingham Seaholm
Percy Gibson 6'7 PF Detroit Southeastern

Team Pride 17u:

DMarco Sanders 6'2 G Flint Powers
Derrick Davis 6'2 G Bridgeport
Darvin Ham 6'5 Wing Bridgeport
Tommie McCune 6'8 F Saginaw High 2011
AJ Thomas 5'7 PG Saginaw Heritage
Taveon Whitson 6'3 Wing Saginaw High

Parallel 45 17u:

Dwaun Anderson 6'4 Wing 2011 Suttons Bay
Garrett Mortenson 5'11 PG 2011 St. Ignance

OAA Select:

Thomas Lovachis 6'1 Wing Stockbridge
Mitchell Vallie 6'4 Wing Goodrich?

Team Pride 16u:

Christian Vaughn 6'1 G Saginaw High 2010
Tommie McCune 6'8 F Saginaw High
Shaquille Smith 5'9 PG Flint Northern
Trey Babers 6'5 Wing Saginaw High
Tink Sherman 5'10 PG Saginaw High 2010
James Johnson 6'4 Wing Saginaw Heritage 2010

Team Detroit 16u:

Ray Lee 6'2 G Robichaud 2012
Percy Gibson 6'7 PF Detroit Southeastern
Urban Bigham 6'6 PF Country Day
Lee Bailey 5'10 PG Country Day

All or Nothing 16u:

Marquavis Ford 6'2 G Saginaw High
Evellis McGee 5'10 PG Saginaw High
D'Vario Gaines 6'6 F 2012 Saginaw High
Bryant Epperson 6'0 G 2010 Saginaw High

Saginaw FOH:

Jaylen Bland 6'2 G Transferring to California
Kevin Marshall 6'7 PF 2012 Saginaw High
Dre Wiley 5'8 PG Saginaw High

Camp Jordon:

George Goodman 5'9 PG Saginaw Buena Vista

Team Pride 15u:

Kenny Kaminski 6'7 Wing Medina(OH)
Matt Costello 6'8 PF Bay City Western
Donald Fisher 6'8 PF Flint Northern
Anton Wilson 6'4 Wing Flint Carman-Ainsworth
Travontis Richardson 6'2 Wing Saginaw High

Team Pride 14u:

Derrick Walton 5'10 PG Detroit
Steven Haney 6'4 Wing East Lansing High

Tourney Highlights:

-The Breakout performances of players like Dwaun Anderson, the 6'4 super wing from up north, Suttons Bay. Anderson is one of the top 2011 wings in Michigan, and a potential high major player. Shaquille Smith from Flint Northern, showed people what I've been saying all along, he's a elite guard in the state.

-The competitive of the 17u division. There was no blowouts, Team Pride got an impressive win over Team Detroit's juggernaut 17u and Parallel 45 and OAA Select also balled the entire weekend.

-The abundance of talent in Saginaw, MI. The talent in Saginaw is scary, it may be safe to say that their isn't another city in the state of Michigan right now with more talent top to bottom than Saginaw. At one time the entire 16u division championship was all Saginaw High players, all 10 on both side of floor. Saginaw FOH and Camp Jordon also featured players from Buena Vista, Heritage, Bridgeport, etc.

-The guard play of Team Pride's 17s. All weekend the guard play carried the Pride 17s along. In a pool play victory against Team Detroit, Derrick Davis a 6'3 Wing from Bridgeport, Damarco Sanders a 6'2 G from Flint Powers and AJ Thomas a 5'8 PG from Saginaw Heritage were stellar. Thomas emerged as one of the elite PG's in the state. Troy Wright another one of Heritage guards also played well. Sanders also couldn't be stopped from the perimeter and Davis was a beast in transition and made numerous athletic plays.

IPS Border Battle Report

2009-06-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

The Inside Prep Sports Border Battle was one of the premier events held in the Midwest this year. With elite travel teams coming from all around the Midwest, and some from as far as Georgia, this was a very nice tourney. It was well run and everything was started on time. Below is a recap for the website, while our subscribers will get a more detailed recap.

Congrats to the Champions:

17u Gold-Stark County Runner Up-CBIZ
17u Silver-Pittsburgh Storm Runner Up-MI Mavericks

16u Gold-Friends 4 Life Runner Up-Common Bond Barnes
16u Silver- Team Legion Runner Up-Detroit Magic

15u Gold-All Ohio Red Runner Up-Team Pride
15u Silver-Team Toledo Runner Up-Shining Stars

14u Champion-Pittsburgh Storm Runner Up-Team Toledo

BOTB's Fab Five Players (All Ages, excluding Michigan Talent)

Anton Grady, 6'7 Wing, Central Catholic (OH), 2011, Friends 4 Life- Long and extremely athletic wing. Although he had 20 on the Michigan Mustangs in a playoff game, his entire impact on the game was enormous. His dunks were simply game changing, he dunked on people numerous times. He looked comfortable coming off screens and shooting 3's, and he even hit some which is a good thing. Didn't see him handle it that much, but could see him being a full-time wing. Long arms and athleticism as well as his great timing, also makes him a very good shot-blocker. Out of the 2011 prospects in Ohio, probably on 6'11 Zack Price from Lakewood St. Ed's and Chane Behanan the 6'7 beast from Cincinnati Aiken should be ranked higher. He's a legit high major.

Dai-Jon Parker, 6'4 CG, Milton (GA), 2011, Georgia Netburners- Not playing with his usual squad, the Southern Kings, Parker fit in well with the Netburners. I can see why colleges are flocking to this young guard. End to end, he is the quickest and fastest I've seen all spring, combine that with his height and build, he has insane potential. He had a dunk against Team Pride 16's in pool play that may have been the best I've seen all spring as well. He's a very good passer, especially off the bounce, and that is a very good quality to have for his game since he virtually gets in the lane at will. Nice jumpshot, very smooth. Top 25 prospect nationally, easily.

Kenny Kaminski, 6'6 Wing, Medina (OH), 2012, Team Pride-Fundamentally and as far as footwork, jab-steps, fade-aways, making tough shots, etc. These eyes have never seen as high school freshman do the things he does. Bad games for him=20 points and 10 boards. His step back three is flat out money, and the way he can get the ball at his size, at his age at the top of the key, size up the defender, jab step; and score with a defender in his face all the while shooting a deep 3 is amazing. He's also dangerous down low. With more development and when he gains strength and handles it better, we are talking about a potential McDonald's All American.

Elijah Macon, 6'8 PF, Marion Franklin (OH), 2012 All Ohio Red 15s- People have him rated the #1 2012 prospect in Ohio right now, and while I don't know if he's better than Kaminski you can see why people have him rated so high. At 6'8 he's very athletic, runs the floor like a gazelle, and can really face you up and hit a mid-range jumper. His mid-range game may be his biggest strength. Long arms affects a lot of things down low at the 15U level, but he also gives alot of effort down low to get rebounds, box outs, etc. Ohio State has offered and I agree that offering him is a good move, need to get in early with this kid, he's a future star.

Dylan Kaufman, 6'4 2G, Hiland (OH), 2012, CBIZ- Another one of the top 2012 kids in Ohio right now. He can flat out stroke the deep ball, but he's not one-dimensional. Akron has already offered and he is making their staff look pretty smart. He has a very good sense of when to use pump-fakes, jab steps, step-throughs, etc and because of that he usually gets open looks during games, and when he's open you can pretty much count it. To reach full potential, tightening up his handle should be a priority.

BOTB Fab-Five Players (All Ages, Michigan)

Patrick Lucas-Perry, 5'9 PG, Flint Powers, 2011, Team Legion 16u- Is he a better scorer or distributor? That's a good thing to ponder, because while he gets his 30 points some games, he also gets his 10 assists in the same games. He's improved so much over the past year, it's crazy to think how much more he could improve. He can finish, he is the best mid range jump shooter in Michigan, and he's a leader. He's won the championship in every tourney he played in year besides King James, and don't forget he got the most important one the state championship with Flint Powers.

Tommie McCune, 6'8 F, Saginaw High, 2011, Team Pride- He is continuing to improve every game. He's still a little inconsistent right now, but he's getting there. He hit 30 in one pool play game, and he can easily get 20 at the 17u level, if he works from inside-out, not vice versa. He could be a full time wing, but he must handle it better. Personal trainer is really helping his speed, agility, strength, and quickness, and his athleticism is clearly there, he will dunk on you in a second. Played exclusively 17u this weekend, although 16u is where he'll most likely play in July. Good shot blocker, but must improve defensively off the ball. His total package, skill level for his size, athleticism, and potential, makes him the #1 player in Michigan's 2011 class.

Matt Costello, 6'8 PF, Bay City Western, 2012, Team Pride-If everyone had his enthusiasm for the game of basketball, it would be a much better game. He is one of those rare bigs who at a young age is actually good and produces. He is very long, and he can run the floor very well. His mid-range jumper is legit, and he also has that jump hook that hits almost every time he shoots it. Has to get stronger to reach his full potential, but if he ever gets strength, and more athletic, he will be a scary player. His parents are huge, so getting 6'10 is also a very reasonable assumption. He will destroy the Saginaw Valley conference in time.

Shaquille Smith, 5'9 G, Flint Northern, 2011, Team Pride-He's the man for Pride's 16u group. Although he's not quite a PG yet, he has the strength, and blinding speed, quickness, and ballhandling where you can just throw him in the fire an he'll succeed. I will bet the house, that other than guards like Maurice Jones and Patrick Lucas-Perry, no one can stay in front of him. And although the elite guards in Michigan can all score, I don't know if anyone can get buckets like Shaq. He's under the radar, but trust me he's an elite guard in Michigan. Once he improves his jump shot, and understands how to play a little more and hones his PG skills, he may have high major potential, mid major potential at the worst.

LaDonte Henton, 6'4 F, Lansing Eastern, 2011, Michigan Mustangs- Although I don't know what position he truly is, and if he will ever get that high major offer, I know that he produces right now. He had close to 40 on Friends 4 Life in the semis, and while it was clear Anton Grady is a better prospect/player, "Buckets" had better numbers. He is a really good rebounder, and he scores the majority of his points off of put backs. He must improve his ball handling to play at the D1 level on the wing, because if a D1 player pressures him he'll turn it over. Right now he's still a PF, but a move to the wing is looking like it may happen for him.

Mike Green

2009-05-24T10:52:00.000-07:00

http://www.mlive.com/news/saginaw/index.ssf/2009/05/a_bond_of_brothers_surrounded.html

Great read on a great person! Shows that this is more than basketball! Mike Green is an outstanding player, and kudos to Grand Valley State for getting a good one!

adidas May Classic Report

2009-05-19T17:55:00.000-07:00

Year in and year out the adidas May Classic is one of the top events of the year. Not only do top adidas teams travel to come down, but also top Nike teams and non-sponsored teams participate. This year was no different. The adidas May Classic was filled with top players and teams. Below is a recap on the action.

17u Division- The 17u division was won by SYF Players. SYF is a loaded group led by 6'9 Domonique Ferguson from Lawrence North High in Indianapolis. Ferguson is being recruited by Kentucky, Duke, Indiana, Arizona, Tennessee, and others aggressively. Ferguson is very long and was a terror as an inside-outside threat the entire weekend. SYF also featured 6'2 PG Jesse Berry from Lafayette (IN) Jefferson. Berry is a high major prospect. To further showcase the depth of Indiana talent, SYF beat Eric Gordon All-Stars in the title game. EG All-Stars were led by 6'3 G Terone Johnson from Eric Gordon's alma mater North Central in Indianapolis, the stocky scoring guard is headed to Purdue. Team Detroit and the Michigan Mustangs also flexed their muscle this weekend. Both loaded groups, Team Detroit were offed in the semis by SYF, the eventual tourney champions, and the Mustangs were beat in the Elite 8 by the Derrick Rose All-Stars for the second time this year.

Top Players:

Ray McCallum- The 6'1 PG from Detroit Country Day, further cemented his status as a elite PG nationally. He is a brilliant passer and the consummate floor general, his hoops IQ is through the roof, and he is also improving athletically at a rapid pace. If he gets stronger, watch out!

Trey Zeigler- The 6'4 G from Mt. Pleasant High showed out this weekend for Team Detroit. Always the scorer, he scored in bunches this weekend. McCallum and Keith Appling are hot names right now, but I still don't know if either are better than Trey. This kid can flat out go, Michigan may have 3 Top 25 prospects nationally in the 2010 class.

Dominique Ferguson- Long, longer, and the longest! He is a hybrid forward that will take you outside and drive or mix it up inside. Added strength will only help him down the line, but I think he will develop to a 3. He's a top 10 talent nationally, he de-committed from Kentucky when Cal took the job, but don't be surprised to see him where the Blue in college, although Tom Crean and the Hoosiers aren't going down without a fight!

Keith Appling- He's easily MSU's best recruit since Kalin Lucas (stating the obvious). Wouldn't be surprised to see him in the McDonald's All American game. He's so effective at scoring but remaining unselfish. I would love to see him grow some more, but I doubt that happens, but even if he doesn't he has insane potential. This kid has it!

Kyrie Irving- The New Jersey Roadrunners weren't the most talented ball club at the AMC, but one thing was for sure, they had the best overall player in the event! The St. Patricks (NJ) product, may be the best PG in America. At 6'3 there is nothing the kid can't do, he's amazing! Indiana is in good with him.

16u Division- The Indiana Elite franchise must be the top summer program in America. They have an abundance of talent throughout their entire program, and they feature 2 maybe 3 elite, national type teams per age group. The Indiana Elite One Green team took home the chip in this age group, even though they didn't actually play the championship game because of 43 Hoops having to get back to Minnesota because of flight situations. The Michigan Mustangs 16s advanced to the Elite 8, in this division losing to the eventual champions. The Team Pride program finished 2-1 despite being shorthanded due to proms and other obligations. Pride had most of its 16s playing 17s, and they just didn't have enough gas in their tank at the end! Powerstroke also won their pool.

15u Division- Once again the Indiana Elite program took home the title! This time it was the Indy Elite-Team Indiana branch. This team featured two 7 footers, Peter Jurkin and Obij Aget as well as the #1 freshman in Indiana DVaunte Smith Rivera. The Team Pride squad advanced all the way to the finals after defeating Spiece Hoosier Hoops, Spiece Indy Heat (the team some feel is the best 15u group in America), and the Derrick Rose All-Stars en route to the title game. Pride showed that they are arguably a Top 5 15u team in America.

Top 2011 and 2012 prospects:

Brandan Kearney: He played up on the Team Detroit 17's and he just oozes potential. Can flat out stroke the deep one, and he does it with ease. He played great at the AMC and he will only continue to get better! Hopefully he qualifies for the USA Under 16 National Team in June.

Percy Gibson: Give Percy a few more inches, and your talking about a absolute monster. The lefty is tough down low, and when he goes hard few can stop. He most likely will still go high major whether he grows or not because, few bigs can score and work the boards like him. He's a good one.

Tommie McCune: If I'm buying stock, now is the time to buy Tommie's. He will be a Top 50 national recruit and the #1 player in the state by the time this class graduates. He has everything scouts and coaches love, length, size, athleticism, heart, etc. He's 6'8 and he's probably a wing player. He had a dunk against the So Cal All-Stars in 17u pool play that was so nasty, people ran out the gym! Did I mention he had games when he hit 3+ trey balls?

Shaquille Smith- The kid just doesn't get enough love statewide, but he's most likely the #2 PG in the state for 2011. The kid killed for Team Pride. He has a deadly crossover, and he uses that to get by defenders, while in the lane he has the athleticism to rise over you and try to dunk or finish. He is also very fast and quick. If he improves his J and works on passing more, big time D1 recruit.

DVaunte Smith Rivera- (Indiana Elite-Team Indiana 2012)This bulldog has to be one of the top freshman in the nation! Equipped with a body of a NFL linebacker, there won't be any 15u PG's that can guard him anywhere. He wills his team to victories. Once he gets in the lane its a bucket or assist, he's really, really good.

Raphael Davis- I see why Matt Painter and staff took a commitment from this kid at Purdue, in 4 years this kid will be a star. He's a legit 6'5 and has a great body. He has to continue improving skill wise but he has the swagger, athletic ability, and heart to be a good one! He dominated all tourney for Spiece Indy Heat's 15u, I can see why people like him so much.

Entire Team Pride 15u- This could be one of the best groups the state of Michigan has put on the circuit in some time. They lost their first game all year at the AMC and it legitimately could be their last loss of the year, needless to say this group is loaded. 6'9 Matt Costello is the #1 freshman in Michigan, 6'7 Kenny Kaminski is the #1 freshman in Ohio, Dorian Dawkins is the #1 8th grader in Michigan, and fellow scouts thought players like 6'3 Saginaw High Wing Travontis Richardson, 6'4 Anton Wilson from Flint Carman-Ainsworth, 6'4 Wing Quinn Langston from Flint Hamady, 6'2 8th grade Wing Dominique Jackson from Saginaw, MI and 5'9 Antwan Burkes from Flint Beecher all have immense talent and potential. They still have a lot of development, but scouts, shoe company reps, and fans were extremely impressed with this group.

U-M Recruiting News

2009-05-15T11:34:00.001-07:00

-Michigan has been hosting many of the top prospects in the state on unofficials lately. First it was top 2010 players Trey Zeigler and Ray McCallum, today 6'10 Soph Amir Williams was on campus. Michigan with its recent success could challenge Tom Izzo and Michigan State for in-state recruiting supremacy, but it will be difficult. The Spartans 2010 Class includes Top 20 national player Keith Appling, Top 100 Russell Byrd, Top 150 Alex Gauna, and last weekend they hosted Top 10-15 National Player Adreian Payne, a 6'10 C from Ohio. Payne is the center on the nations top travel team, All-Ohio Red. Payne who is interested in MSU, Kentucky, Akron, Ohio State, and West Virginia among others, is on campus at Kentucky this weekend.

-Although the Wolverine, missed on one from prep school powerhouse St Marks in Southborough, Mass(Nate Lubick) they will try for another one. 6'8 2012 Wing Alex Murphy is one of the premier freshman talents in America. The Michigan coaches are starting to actively recruit Murphy as well as others like Georgia Tech, Providence, UMASS, Duke.

Updates 5-11-09

2009-05-11T16:09:00.000-07:00

-In big Michigan news this weekend it looks like UCLA has offered Trey Zeigler a scholarship. This is significant because you not only have to consider UCLA as one of Trey's top schools but also remember that UCLA's head coach Ben Howland was Trey's dad's, Ernie's boss at UCLA when they made their first Final 4. This recruitment will go down to the very end but my gut is just telling me Zig stays in state.

-The adidas May Classic this weeknd will host some of Michigan's best travel team powers. Last word I got the states two adidas teams, Michigan Mustangs and Team Detroit will be there, along with Team Pride. In past years other Michigan teams have also made it out. Other travel team powerhouses like the Spiece and Indiana Elite franchises, Ohio Basketball Club, and other programs should be there as well.

-The Team Pride 14u team, coached by Curtis Hervey has been having some big success this year. Fresh off of winning their 4th straight state AAU title, Pride finished 2nd at the prestigious adidas Jr May Classic event last weekend in Indianapolis. The Pride team is led by some of the top 8th graders in Michigan, including 5'10 PG Dorian Dawkins and 6'1 Dominique Jackson from Saginaw, 5'10 PG Derrick Walton, 5'10 Gerald Lockbridge, 5'8 Dre Johnson from Detroit, 6'4 Wing Steven Haney from Lansing, and other good young players. The Pride team was missing the top big in Detroit, Kenmar Benson this weekend. They scored victories over Ohio Basketball Club and Team Tempo two top teams in the country who have finished high at Nationals over the years. They lost in the title game to Indiana Elite Jazz, who is a very good young team.

-The Team Detroit 17u won the Motown All Stars Classic this weekend and West Michigan Lakers 17u won the Laker's event-Tulip Tip Off. Team Detroit got good play reportedly from Ziegler, Ray McCallum, Percy Gibson, and Corey Petros. This is a group that can make noise on the national circuit.

-Interesting article from Gary Parrish of CBS on one of the top recruits in the 2009 class, Lance Stephenson http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/story/11735696

PLP Update

2009-05-03T18:12:00.000-07:00

The hottest player in the state of Michigan right now is Patrick Lucas-Perry, from Flint Powers. The 5'10 PG has blew up to the point, where he is a legit candidate for the #1 player in 2011 in Michigan. Lucas-Perry was the #1 ranked PG in Michigan in my updated rankings for college coaches and subscribers. He currently holds offers, according to his father from South Florida, Ohio, and Oakland. Michigan State, Duquesne, and Michigan were also recently in Flint for an open gym to watch PLP. This could come down to a MSU, UM battle for PLP. Tom Izzo and Associate Head Coach Mark Montgomery came to see him play in the open gym as well as Mark Jackson from Michigan. Expect his recruitment to be intense, and really pick up after the July period. PLP will attend the NBA Top 100 Camp and the John Lucas Invite Only Camp in Houston, which is one of the top camps in the country. Watch out for him on the circuit with Team Legion.

Gauna to Michigan State

2009-04-30T17:05:00.001-07:00

Alex Gauna, the 6'9 PF from Eaton Rapids, MI/High has verbally committed to the Michigan State Spartans. It has long been known that Michigan State was Gauna's dream school, and when offered he would accept. Gauna was offered this week and it didn't take him long to say yes. Gauna is a inside-outside threat, who has a very good shooting touch. Tom Izzo will definitely him up down low and make him a better rebounder, which in turn will make him a better player. I expect to see him do wonders as a Spartan. Gauna competes with the Michigan Mustangs grassroots program.

Grand Rapids Storm Classic Preview

2009-04-16T10:03:00.000-07:00

The Grand Rapids Storm Classic will be one of the Midwest best tourneys in April. Numerous top programs like Team Pride, Michigan Mustangs, King James, Grand Rapids Storm, Michigan Roadrunners will be in attendance. Below is a look at some players expected to participate:

17u

Devin Oliver 6'5 Wing Kalamazoo Central

Keith Appling 6'2 G Detroit Pershing Michigan Mustangs

Alex Gauna 6'9 PF Eaton Rapids Michigan Mustangs

John Horford 6'9 PF Grand Ledge Michigan Mustangs

Walter Pitchford 6'9 PF Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central Michigan Mustangs

Matt Kaminiecki 6'7 F Clarkston Michigan Mustangs

Juwan Howard, Jr 6'6 Wing Detroit Pershing Michigan Mustangs

LaDontae Henton 6'6 F Lansing Eastern Michigan Mustangs

Tommie McCune 6'8 F Saginaw High Team Pride

Dyland Hughes 6'2 G Kalamazoo Central Team Pride

DeMondre Chapman 6'6 PF Flint Carman-Ainsworth King James

Cameron Wright 6'4 2G Cleveland Benedictine King James

Derek Jackson 6'1 PG Cleveland Benedictine King James

Zach Price 6'11 C Lakewood St. Ed's King James

Taron Boose 6'3 Wing Flint Beecher Team Pride

Glenn Cosey 6'1 PG Flint Carman Ainsworth Team Pride

Jaylen Larry 6'8 PF Flint Carman Ainsworth Team Pride

Colin Voss 6'8 PF East Grand Rapids GR Storm

Nate VanArendonk 6'10 C Grand Haven GR Storm

Cole Darling 6'8 Wing Holt Michigan Roadrunners

16s

Tommie McCune 6'8 F Saginaw High Team Pride

Shaquille Smith 5'8 PG Flint Northern Team Pride

Darius Norman 6'6 Wing Kalamazoo Central Team Pride

Trey Babers 6'5 2G Saginaw High Team Pride

Matt Costello 6'9 C Bay City Western Team Pride

Matt Poches 6'4 Wing Hartland Team Pride

DeAnthony Arnette 6'0 PG Saginaw High Team Pride

TJ Buchanan 6'1 G Kalamazoo Central Kazoo Blues

Ryan Majerle 6'4 Wing Rockford GR Storm

Jorddan Myrick 5'10 PG West Ottawa GR Storm

15s

Matt Costello 6'9 C Bay City Western Team Pride

Kenny Kaminski 6'6 Wing Medina (OH) Team Pride

Antwan Burkes 5'9 PG Flint Beecher Team Pride

Dorian Dawkins 5'10 PG Central Middle Team Pride

Quinn Langston 6'3 Wing Flint Hamady Team Pride

Anton Wilson 6'4 2G Flint Carman-Ainsworth Team Pride

Treyvon Crater 6'3 PG Akron SVSM King James

Damonte Flannigan 6'7 PF 8th grade King James

Many more players were left off the list. Look for reports following the event...

Team Pride Travel Team Tryouts

2009-03-23T21:37:00.000-07:00

MICHIGAN'S NEWEST TRAVEL TEAM PROGRAM TEAM PRIDE WILL BE HOLDING TRYOUTS SUNDAY MARCH 29th AT SAGINAW HIGH SCHOOL!!

TEAM PRIDE WILL BE THE TOP TRAVEL TEAM IN MICHIGAN!!

SPONSORED BY NFL SUPERSTAR CHAMPION LAMARR WOODLEY OF THE PITTSBURGH STEELERS

15u-17u TEAMS WILL TRAVEL TO ALL THE TOP TOURNEYS IN AMERICA INCLUDING STOPS IN ORLANDO, INDIANA, OHIO, TENNESSEE AND MANY OTHER LOCATIONS!!!

TIMES: 15u 4-5 PM 16u 5-6 PM 17u 6-7 PM

CONTACT PERSONS

RALPH ARNETT(GM) 989-239-8906 ralph04_7th@yahoo.com

LATRICIA DAWKINS(PROGRAM COORDINATOR) 989-399-4751 LDAWKINS@spsd.net

End of Season Player Rankings-Michigan

2009-03-16T12:03:00.000-07:00

Here is my updated player rankings for Michigan, full player rankings will be sent to subscribers this week.

2009

FINAL SENIOR BOTB RANKINGS ONLY FOR SUBSCRIBERS!

Mr. Basketball Pick-Ben Simons, 6'7 Wing, Cadillac, DRAKE

2010

1. Trey Ziegler Mt. Pleseant 6'5 G

2. Ray McCallum, JR Detroit Country Day 6'1 PG

3. Keith Appling Detroit Pershing 6'2 G MICHIGAN STATE

4. Maurice Jones Saginaw Arthur Hill 5'7 PG

5. Isaiah Sykes Detroit Finney 6'5 Wing

6. Devin Oliver Kalamazoo Central 6'5 SG

7. Alex Gauna Eaton Rapids 6'8 PF

8. John Horford Grand Ledge 6'9 PF

9. Devin Long Detroit Crockett 6'8 PF

10. Michael Talley, JR Melvindale B&T 5'8 PG

2011

1. Carlton Brundidge Southfield 6'2 G

2. Brandan Kearney Detroit Southeastern 6'5 G

3. Tommie McCune Saginaw High 6'8 F

4. Amir Williams Detroit Country Day 6'11 C

5. Percy Gibson Detroit Southeastern 6'8 PF

6. LaDontae Henton Lansing Eastern 6'5 F

7. AJ Mathew Ann Arbor Huron 6'3 PG

8. Darius Norman Kalamazoo Central 6'6 Wing

9. Desmond Barnes Detroit Consortium 5'10 PG

10. Shaquille Smith Flint Northern 5'10 PG

*Darren Washington, 6'10 C from Detroit Southeastern is Top 6 potential wise, he most likely will end up high major*

2012

1. Ray Lee Robichaud 6'2 G

2. Travon Baker Detroit Consortium 5'9 PG

3. Matt Costello Bay City Western 6'8 PF

4. Kevin Marshall Saginaw High 6'6 F

5. Jordan Hare Saginaw Arthur Hill 6'8 F

6. Javonte Hawkins Flint Beecher 6'5 Wing

7. Donald Fisher Flint Northern 6'7 PF

8. Cameron Fowler U-D Jesuit 6'1 PG

9. Quaran Jones Orchard Lake St. Mary's 6'6 PF

10. Antwan Burkes Flint Beecher 5'10 PG

*Denzel Valentine, a 6'4 Wing at Lansing Sexton, is a Top 2 freshmen in Michigan but was hurt for the majority of the year*

Showdown in the Valley

2009-02-14T19:27:00.000-08:00

The Showdown in the Valley tournament will be the premier tournament Michigan holds in the summer of 2009. S.I.T.V will be held in numerous gyms in Saginaw, Michigan and will be held June 5-7. BOTB in conjunction with the Team Pride boys/girls travel team program will run the event. All of Michigan's top teams will be there, as well as surrounding states. Age divisions will be 10u-17u boys and girls. Contact bestscouting@hotmail.com for more info, or view the eteamz.com/teampridebball webpage.

The Emergence of DCDS as a National Power

2009-02-02T21:06:00.000-08:00

The last team with as much high major talent in Michigan as the 2008-2009 version of the Detroit Country Day Yellowjackets is the 2005-2006 Saginaw High Team. That team featured Draymond Green who went to Michigan State, Josh Southern who went to Boston College, Daniel West who went to Tennessee, Bobby Lewis and Deonte Wesley who went to Jackson State, Larry Wright who went to St. Johns, and Kuddles Hopkins who went to Carl Sandburg JC. Bobby transferred to Mott JC in Flint, MI and he now has a chance to go high-major, Kuddles is a JC All American, and will have his choice of a D1 school and Larry ended up transferring to Oakland (MI). That Saginaw High team didn't win a state title though, Arthur Hill did. This Detroit Country Day team has a chance to be even better than that Saginaw High team by winning the chip.

Country Day is the biggest team in Michigan and one of the biggest in America with 6'11 SR DaShonte Riley, 6'9 JR Donnovan Kirk, 6'10 Soph Amir Williams, and 6'8 Urbane Bigham all D1 recruits down low. 6'6 Jordan Dumars a South Florida recruit is on the wing, and DCDS also has 3 other soph's 5'10 Lee Bailey, 6'1 Chris Fowler, and 6'4 Kenny Knight that will get D1 attention. 6'3 Sr Wing Bennie Fowler is a Michigan State fball recruit. The best player on this team, and maybe the best player in Michigan is 6'2 JR PG Ray McCallum, JR. Ray is a top 15 player in America for the class of 2010. Country Day has a boatload of talent, and are 13-0. They are currently ranked the #5 team in America by USA Today ... let's see if the Yellowjackets can surpass the latest Michigan team to be ranked that high, Saginaw High at #4, last year.

Michigan Mid-Season Report-The Young Bucks

2009-01-30T13:50:00.001-08:00

Michigan is always looking for its newest star. Next is always looked for in the Mitten state and for good reason, you have to keep an eye on your up and coming talent, especially if you are one of the talent hot-beds of America.

So who's the big-time freshmen in Michigan. It starts with 6'2 Ray Lee from Robichaud. In the beginning of the year I thought that maybe he was the second best player in Michigan, but now I'm convinced, Lee is hands down the best freshman in Michigan. He can score with the best of them, pass, play PG, he's long, athletic, Ray is good. He has had a few 25 pt games this year. 6'4 Denzel Valentine from Lansing Sexton is another big-time player. He sure doesn't look like a freshman out on the floor with the big boys, Denzel is extremely versatile and athletic, and if he continues to grow, which I think he will, he will be really, really special. Saginaw is once again loaded with talent in 2012, as one of the state's premier prospects lie at Arthur Hill in 6'8 Jordan Hare, Hare has an immense upside and one to watch in the future, he produces now. 6'6 Kevin Marshall, 6'6 D'Vario Gaines, and 6'2 Travontis Richardson from Saginaw High will all be big-time prospects for the Trojans. Marshall has produced for the High's varsity, and has even started some games this year, he will be about 6'10, has a size 19 shoe, and he's improving by the day. Not to be outdone by its rival city, Flint is LOADED with young talent. The top freshman in Flint most likely is 6'8 Donald Fisher from Flint Northern. Fisher is long, agile, and not afraid to bang. He needs to eat some food badly, and beef up; and once he does every college in America will be beating down his door. Beecher also has a few elite freshmen prospects in 6'5 shooter Javonte Hawkins and 5'11 CG Antwaun Burks. Burks is tough as he was the starting QB on the varsity fball team. Burks has all the intangibles, and he just flat out isn't afraid to get after it, he has lots of heart to be a freshman. Hawkins can stroke it, but will also mix it up down low, and fight for rebounds, which I love to see out of freshmen. 6'3 F Quinn Langston from Flint Hamady is a slasher supreme, who is very athletic. He is a monster in transition and in the boards, if Quinn grows a few more inches he could be very, very good. The top two PG's in the freshmen class are probably 5'8 Dennis Norfleet from Detroit MLK and 5'9 Travon Baker from Detroit Consortium. Norfleet's name rings bells nationwide, as he is one of the more hyped players from Michigan, and he flat out gets the job done; despite his size, their isn't a player stronger in Michigan. Baker is a extremely poised PG for a freshmen and looks to be a better prospect than his backcourt teammate at Consortium, 5'11 Desmond Barnes, who is a D1 prospect. The last freshmen who is on the radar is 6'5 John Simons from Cadillac. John is the baby bro of Ben Simons from Cadillac, who is our #2 ranked player in our updated rankings for Michigan, and is pushing for the #1 spot; Drake got a steal on that one. Simons can shoot it like his brother, and he has a very high upside, as he can do alot of things right now at the varsity level. Simons could be better than Ben... but we will have to wait and see on that one.

Michigan Mid-Season Report

2009-01-30T12:57:00.000-08:00

Numerous players have burst on the scene, players ranks have risen, some have stayed the same. Some teams have gotten better, some worse. Some pre-season hype has been justified, others haven't. But one thing is for sure, Michigan basketball is still big-time! I will give you some of the top storylines of this years young season.

1. Guard Play by the 2010 class- It was well known before the season that I thought Trey Zeigler was hands down the best player in Michigan. And while I still feel that way, numerous guards in the class of 2010 are playing their way to elite status in the 2010 class. 6'1 Ray McCallum, JR from Country Day has been nothing short of brilliant so far this year. Country Day is the most talented team in Michigan, and they were also the most talented last year, but the difference between this year and last is, they have one of the best PG's in the nation running their ballclub. The only PG in America who I think is better than Ray right now is 6'2 Brandon Knight from Florida, who may be the best player in country (Of course, I have only seen Michigan talent, as the AAU circuit hasn't started just yet). 5'7 Maurice Jones from Saginaw Arthur Hill has led Arthur Hill to numerous impressive victories this year, and has many thinking he is a Top 5 player in Michigan in the 2010 class. He flat out dominates most opponents, and I can't wait to see him play Ray McCallum and Detroit Country Day this year. Jones has improved his out side shot, and is still the same speedy, slippery player who is so hard to contain; and of course he is still Michigan's crowd favorite. 6'5 Isaiah Sykes from Detroit Finney is not what people proclaimed him as, but he's still a legit Top 50-75 player in America. He can easily play the PG position and he is athletic as ever. He needs to work on his outside shot though. The only committed player in Michigan for the 2010 class so far is Keith Appling, and out of all the top players in Michigan for the 2010, he has to be the most feared, Keith is a flat-out DOG! No one scores in bunches like this killa from Detroit Pershing, he can go for 30+ any day, he's a top 30 player in America. Trey Zeigler is the same old Trey, racking up triple-doubles and making it look easy, if only he had D1 talent surrounding him... The guard play in 2010 is great and other players like 6'5 Devin Oliver from Kalamazoo Central (who I expect to get high major offers this spring), Kyle Vinales from North Farmington, Mike Talley from Melvindale B&T, Greg Hayes from Saginaw High, Roy Marble from Southfield-Lathrup, Glen Cosey from Flint Carman-Ainsworth, AJ McEwen from East Grand Rapids, and Richard Carter from Detroit Cody, have all been playing very well for their ballclubs, and they will be in my updated rankings!

Michigan's Talent Level is on the Rise

2009-01-01T23:04:00.000-08:00

Michigan's Talent Level is as good as it has been in a long time, in my opinion. It is hard for me to decide who is the #1 player in every class in Michigan. In 2009, you have Derrick Nix from Detroit Pershing, who at 6'9 is the most dominant player in Michigan, with his size down low. DaShonte Riley, the 7'0 C from Country Day, is very raw on the offensive end, but his enormous potential still keeps him on top of the class.

In 2010, is is extremely hard to pick. After Las Vegas in July, Trey Ziegler, the 6'5 do everything player from Mt. Pleseant was the easy pick, but now 6'1 Ray McCallum, JR from Country Day is playing like arguably the best player in Michigan, regardless of class. 6'5 Isaiah Sykes from Detroit Finney, also has to have his name in there, because of his versatility, as well as 6'2 Keith Appling, a Michigan State commit from Detroit Pershing, who can give anyone above 30. 6'9 PF John Horford from Grand Ledge, has a huge upside, and was the best big on the floor when Grand Ledge played Country Day at Michigan State a few days ago. 6'9 Alex Gauna from Eaton Rapids is as skilled as they come down low, but still needs a mean streak, but still it is hard to leave him out the top 5 in his class. Another guy who has to be mentioned amongst the elite players in Michigan is 5'7 PG Maurice Jones, who although he will get the best of guards who will go high major, he should go to the A-10 or equivalent because of his size, but right now "Pookie" flat out gets the job done!

In 2011, 6'5 G Brandan Kearney, is my favorite player in Michigan, because of his poise and smart play on the court, and also because it is a very good chance he continues to grow, and if he gets to be 6'7, we are talking about the next Steve Smith and McDonald's All American from Detroit, he is pushing 6'6 now. Kearney's god brother, 6'8 Percy Gibson, who attends Detroit Southeastern with him, is a beast down low and is also a high major recruit. After those two, the potential high major talent doesn't stop there, 6'8 Tommie McCune from Saginaw High has Syracuse, Michigan State, Xavier and others recruiting him, and North Carolina recently called on him; in the end he could end up being the best player in Michigan for this class. And then you can't forget about the best scorer in the 2011 class, high major combo guard Carlton Brundidge, the 6'1 Southfield High product is the man right now in this class, because he has done it on the 17u circuit with Michigan powerhouse summer program "The Family" and with his high school, Carlton is a beast, and has guys like Michigan State, Michigan, Georgetown and others on him. 6'5 LaDontae Hinton from Lansing Eastern is the strongest and most productive player in his class right now, but he may not end up going high major, because he is a "tweener" and isn't extremely skilled. 6'10 Amir Williams from Country Day, will be better than all of the bigs on Country Day's team right now. Williams is a shot-blocker and rebounder, and he will try to dunk on you. But that isn't all at DCDS for 2011 D1 talent, 6'8 Urbane Bingham, 6'1 Chris Fowler, 5'10 Lee Bailey, and 6'4 Kenny Knight will also be very good. 6'6 Darius Norman from Kalamazoo Central has the potential to be a high major player, he is long, can shoot, and plays hard. 6'3 G AJ Mathew from Ann Arbor Huron, is also quietly getting the job done, he shoots it well, and has a high bball IQ, pound for pound, AJ is just as good as people who get more pub than him, he is leading his team to a undefeated record, including a impressive win over Benton Harbor, he will get D1 offers as well. Other 2011 players who are interesting prospects and are playing well so far in this early season include 6'10 Darren Washington and 6'0 Davonte Carter(isn't playing, but is very good) from Detroit Southeastern, 6'2 Ed Brown from Detroit Finney, 6'4 Trey Babers, 5'10 Evellis McGee, and 6'1 Marquavis Ford from Saginaw High, 6'1 Jaylen Bland from Saginaw Arthur Hill, 6'8 Jalen Reynolds from Livonia Clarenceville, 6'9 Donald Owens from Inkster High, 6'6 Julian Plummer from Muskegon Heights, and 5'10 PG Patrick Lucas-Perry from Flint Powers.

In 2012, Denzel Valentine a 6'4 do everything player from Lansing Sexton just may be the best player, but so may 6'2 Ray Lee from Robichaud, 6'8 Jordan Hare from Arthur Hill, and 6'0 Cameron Fowler from U-D Jesuit. 5'6 Dennis Norfleet from Detroit MLK is also doing very well. Donald Fisher, a long 6'8 big fella from Flint Northern will be good in time, but he is also producing very well right now. 6'4 SG Javonte Hawkins, may be the best shooter in this class, but he also shows the Flint grit and toughness that is always there in players from the inner city. Saginaw also has a few more under the radar players. 6'6 Kevin Marshall from Saginaw High has immense potential and could end up 6'10, he has HUGE feet. DeAndre Grady a 6'1 G from East Grand Rapids is another good young prospect, he is another one of those Grady's from the Grand Rapids area.

Other players playing well in this young season includes

2009

Dion Sims 6'6 F Orchard Lake St. Mary's

James Still 6'9 PF Detroit Community PROVIDENCE

Mike Green 6'1 G Saginaw High

Vonn Jones 6' PG Hartland

Donnovan Kirk 6'9 PF Country Day MIAMI-FL

Rashad Porter 5'10 PG Romulus

Duke Monday 6'4 SG Grand Rapids Catholic Central PROVIDENCE

Ben Simons 6'7 Wing Cadillac DRAKE

Jordan Morgan 6'8 PF U-D Jesuit MICHIGAN

Jordan Dumars 6'6 Wing Country Day SOUTH FLORIDA

Doug Anderson 6'6 PF Kalamazoo Central

2010

Devin Oliver 6'5 SG Kalamazoo Central

Juwan Howard 6'6 Wing Detroit Pershing

Kyle Vinales 6'1 G North Farmington

Mike Talley, JR 5'9 PG Melvindale B&T

Kem Bradshaw 6'2 SG Detroit Cass Tech

Stay tuned!

News and Notes

2008-12-01T23:54:00.000-08:00

-Reports out of the Lansing Eastern scrimmage indicated that Kalamazoo Central, Detroit Southeastern, and Detroit Pershing, looked like the best teams there. Word has it that Keith Appling, the Detroit Pershing's top perimeter threat, will be running the PG spot for the Doughboys this year. I was not in attendance but some of the names given to me by credible sources as players who performed well include 6'5 SR F Doug Anderson from Kazoo Central, 6'5 Soph G Brandan Kearney from Detroit Southeastern, 6'9 SR C Derrick Nix from Detroit Pershing, 6'4 Soph CG AJ Mathew from Ann Arbor Huron, 5'6 JR PG Maurice Jones from Saginaw Arthur Hill, 6'5 Soph F LaDante Henton from Lansing Eastern, 6'2 JR SG Keith Appling from Detroit Pershing, 6'1 JR PG Ray McCallum from Detroit Country Day, 6'10 Soph C Amir Williams from Detroit Country Day, and 6'6 JR Terrell Clinton from Benton Harbor.

-As many know 7'0 SR C Deshante Riley from Detroit Country Day didn't sign his letter of intent with the Georgetown Hoyas. Word is it was a agreement from both sides. Sources have been telling me that the schools looking good for Riley right now are Michigan, Ohio State, Detroit, and Georgia Tech. Some say Detroit and Michigan are looking very good. Detroit because it is Riley's hometown, and Riley's PG this year Ray McCallum, JR just happens to have a father who calls the shots at U-D. Reports have also told me that Kurt Keener, Country Day's coach has been reaching out to schools on behalf of Riley, and one of those schools include Michigan, and the word is there is mutual interest on both sides. Don't be surprised if this comes down to a Michigan and Detroit battle.

-It appears that the interest Michigan State once has for the state's top player 6'5 G Trey Zeigler is no longer as strong as it once was. Because of commitments from Keith Appling and Russell Byrd, the Spartans can focus on what they need in the 2010 class, a big man. Michigan is still in the race for Trey.

-Fordham has offered 6'8 Soph PF Percy Gibson from Detroit Southeastern. Percy is one of the top 5 players in Michigan for his class.

St. Mark's vs. Finday Prep Game-National Prep Showcase

2008-11-22T21:55:00.000-08:00

Findlay Prep, arguably the top team in the country, almost went down to St. Mark's, which is now a top 5 prep school program in the nation. Findlay did pull away 90-86. Below is a recap of the games top players:

St. Mark's

Erik Murphy-The 2009 Florida commit, was sidelined the entire first half with foul trouble, but he produced big time in the second half with 21 points. His hook shot is money and he runs the floor like a demon. He is also extremely long, but he must make the chippies down low and continue to get stronger and tougher though to contribute significantly next year at Florida.

Nate Lubick-The 2010 Georgetown commit, was the second best player in this game. He is extremely tough, and he has a wide array of skills on offense. He chases everything on the glass and plays extremely hard. Has 27 and 9 today. 3-ball is flat out money and is athletic enough to bang on you down low. Should be a Mickey D's AA in 2010, he's that good.

Melsahn Basabe-Intriguing 2010 post. Long, athletic, can run and can finish. Amazing offensive rebounder, very quick jumper. Around 6'7, didn't play much but if he gets stronger and adds more moves and becomes more aware on D, could be high major.

David Johnson- I think this 2009 PG, made the right decision on what level he picked in going to Quinnipiac. Isn't quite big enough to go high major, but boy did he play well today. Can shoot it, and has good court awareness. Great ball-handler, athletic. Had 12 and 10 assists today.

Findlay Prep

Avery Bradley-Top 10 player in the country. Mid-Range jumper is cash, gets up extremely high on his jumper. Has a great crossover to the middle for the pull up J. Extremely long and a pesky defender. Amazingly athletic, a beast on the boards, the kid is just flat out good. Texas got a Great one! Most likely is a one and done.

DJ Richardson-Pretty good shooter, long and good on the drive. I was pretty impressed with his game. Illinois pledge.

Cory Joseph- I love guys that can shoot and he is one of them. Wouldn't quite call him a PG yet because he isn't to good dribbling with his left. St. Mark's would have won if it wasn't for his timely treyballs. Hearing Minnesota is the leader!

Michigan Sleeper Report

2008-11-07T20:32:00.000-08:00

Everyone below is a D1 prospect in Michigan, they are below the radar now, and many aren't appreciating them just now, but they are good players, and will blow up this year...

2010
Terrell Clinton 6'6 G Benton Harbor-Can play both guard spots and may be the 2010 class' Chase Simon. Expect him to fill up the stat sheet this year.

Nate VanArendonk 6'10 C Grand Haven-Some think he's high major, some think he's mid major. We need a better read on him, but the skilled big man is under the radar and a surefire D1 recruit.

2011
Don Lewis 6'9 PF/C Inkster- Long and lanky big man, transferred into Inkster from Detroit Cody, and he is a shot-blocking machine. Has the potential to be really good.

Darren Washington 6'10 C Detroit Southeastern-He could be 2012, and if he were, Oh my god! Extremely long, and he plays with a purpose. Once he develops some post moves and scorers more, he will be Top 5 in Michigan. Plays for a top coach in Michigan.

Davonte Carter 6'0 G Detroit Southeastern- Plays hard all the time. Some think he's top 10 in Michigan. Has a sweet jumper, and is extremely aggressive. Playing against/with Brandan Kearney everyday also won't hurt.

Trey Babers 6'4 SG Saginaw High-Cousin of Draymond Green. Some think he's the top wing in MI right now for his class. Can really shoot, and could end up being a PG one day, will continue to grow.

AJ Mathew 6'4 Wing Ann Arbor Huron-Can really shoot. Was the star for a solid Common Bond 15u team this year. Can score, but also has the bball IQ to play the PG. Will only improve. Top 10 in Michigan.

Marquavis Ford 6'1 G Saginaw High- The best shooter in Michigan. Has amazing range, and once he gets hot, the game can get out of hand. Needs to improve handles. Colleges have already offered him.

Last 4...

2008-10-26T10:47:00.000-07:00

Kalamazoo Central-The last few years, it was obvious that there talent level was heavy, now they have a great up-and-coming young coach. Mike Thomas, once one of my staff members, and a former assistant coach at Northwood, is a good enough coach to win state titles in the future at Kazoo. This year his team will be headlined by two of the top players in the state for their classes. 6'6 2009 F Doug Anderson, is the most athletic and highest-leaper from Michigan since NBA Dunk Contest winner Jason Richardson. Doug's hops are downright unbelievable. If Doug had the skills to play on the wing, the NBA could really be in his future, but his skills are not even ready right now to play on the wing at the D1 Level. 6'5 2010 Wing Devin Oliver is one of the best wings in the state for his class. Oliver will play D1 one day, the level is up to him. Oliver was solid for the Mustangs 16s this year in Vegas. Oliver is an athletic, lefty who has the potential to be really good. 6'3 2009 Wing TJ Cameron will also contribute. Kazoo also has a wealth of good young players...Watch out for this program in the future.

Warren DeLa Salle-When you combine the fact that they are always one of the top defensive ball clubs in the state, they always have great shooters, and great coaching they are always a force in Michigan high school basketball. Then you throw in the fact they have a Big Ten commit in 6'3 SR SG Alex Marcotullio, who is headed to Northwestern, and they have one of the top bangers in the state in 6'9 2009 C Kevin McCarthy, and a great role player in 6'1 2009 SG in Alex Harville then you have to put them in your Top 10 teams, this isn't a team you want to play in March.

Flint Powers-Can the 3rd Lucas-Perry lead Powers to the Class B State Title? 5'10 Soph PG Patrick Lucas-Perry who already has D1 offers from schools like Oakland and Ohio will be the difference maker if this team wants to be the top in Class B. 6'2 JR SG D'Marco Sanders will also be a scoring presence in the back-court, and 6'2 SR SG Shane Moreland will be the most productive player in Class B this year. Add in the athletic front court presence of 6'6 SR F Rodney Anderson, and you have another very good powers team! Lucas-Perry was great in the playoffs last year as a freshman, will he be good enough this year for Powers to take the whole thing?

Benton Harbor-Another team who is traditionally one of the states top teams, and it is that way again with the emergence of 6'6 JR G Terrell Clinton as one of the top players in his class, and a high major sleeper prospect. Clinton can play the 1 at 6'6 and is one of the more versatile players in the state. If he starts putting up big scoring numbers...watch out. 6'6 SR PF Tyrone Black is also one of the states top power-forwards. Black is a horse in the paint, who finishes well around the cup. Helping Black out on the inside will be 6'6 SR PF Aaron Clyburn...expect Benton Harbor to once again be in the thick of things come March.

News and Notes

2008-10-26T09:54:00.000-07:00

-Russell Byrd, like I expected committed to Michigan State. Byrd along with Keith Appling, a 6'2 G from Detroit, MI/Pershing complete their 2010 class. Both are Top 100 players in the country for 2010.

-Some people are expecting 6'8 2010 PF Will Regan Buffalo, NY/Nichols School to commit to Michigan. Regan is a blue-collar big man, who works hard inside, but is also skilled enough to step out and shoot it.

-University of Detroit is in the recruiting race for 2011 6'5 G Brandan Kearney from Detroit, MI/Southeastern. Kearney is a top 25 national talent in the country for his class.

-Trey Zeigler a 6'5 G from Mt. Pleasant, MI/High was on the Michigan campus yesterday. Expect Zeigler's recruitment to be very interesting!

Russell Byrd

2008-10-22T21:11:00.000-07:00

Expect Russell Byrd, a 6'7 SG from Ft. Wayne, IN/Blackhawk Christian to commit to Michigan State or Kentucky Friday. Byrd is Top 75 in the 2010 class. If I was a betting man I would go with Michigan State on this one!

2 More Up

2008-10-22T20:39:00.000-07:00

Clarkston- Clarkston, Clarkston, Clarkston. Could this be the magic year? They have the talent, defense, grit, and the always excellent coaching to do it. The Big Three this year will be the alpha and omega for this ball-club. 6'7 JR F Matt Kaminiecki is a D1 prospect, and one of the elite 2010's in Michigan. He can do it all, inside and out, he is an extremely skilled player. Will he play for Coach Fife's son, the other Coach Fife, who is the head coach at IPFW? He could, IPFW will be good in years to come. One of the top shooters in the state resides at Clarkston and that is 6'4 SR SG Brandon Pokley, yes his shot is wet! Pokley may sneak into a low-major D1 school, based on his shooting ability alone. The jack of all trades for this team will be 6'5 SR G/Wing Thomas Staton. Staton will probably play PG for Clarkston, and that is something he is capable of doing. Staton most likely will go D1. Staton was efficient as always with the Mustangs 17s in Vegas. Watch out for Clarkston this year, they are a flat out force to be reckoned with!

Detroit Finney- Yes, I was the first service to say Isaiah Sykes is one of the elite players in Michigan. Sykes not only has my eye, but he also has the eye of high-major college coaches! Tennessee will probably land him, his head coach Ray Reeves and UT's assistant Tony Jones are cool, but others still have a chance, including Michigan State, Syracuse, and Michigan. Sykes has blew up to the point where, one D1 assistant told me he was the best player from Detroit in the last 10 years! Sykes is a 6'5, do everything guard, who may just be the top player in Michigan, (by the way Trey Zeigler, is easily Top 15 in the country in 2010). But the talent for Finney doesn't stop there, Brandon Williams a 6'6 2010 CF and he will end up D1, 6'1 Soph G Ed Brown is also one of the top players in his class. Watch out for Finney, they may be the best in the PSL!

On to the PSL

2008-10-21T14:35:00.000-07:00

Our next two top teams come from arguably, Michigan's top high school basketball conference, the Detroit PSL.

Detroit Pershing- Last year's Class A State Runner-Up is again talented enough to contend for a state title. Led by two Michigan State commits in Keith Appling a 6'2 scorer-supreme in the 2010 class, and 6'9 2009 C Derrick Nix, who is HUGE! The Doughboys could be the best team in Detroit. Supporting roles will be played beautifully by 6'0 2009 PG Dion Dismuke and 6'6 2010 Wing Juwan Howard, JR. Howard is a much improved player over the summer as he was excellent for the Michigan Mustangs 16s in Vegas. Dismuke, who toured with Detroit Powerhouse The Family this summer is as heady as they come at the PG spot. He will make or break this ball-club. Raymone McAfee, a 6'7 2010 F is an under the radar prospect that is primed to break out. He was a force with the Reach Legends program this Summer. 6'8 2009 C Tevin Conrad, just like his counterpart Derrick Nix is HUGE! Conrad, is a beast on the boards, and once he gets in better condition he will be a factor. Expect Pershing to be a force this upcoming season.

Detroit Southeastern-The Jungaleers are led by one of the premier guards in the state, 6'5 Soph Brandan Kearney. Brandan has the potential to be one of the best out of Detroit in a long time. He is one of the top shooters in Michigan, and at 6'5 he can also play PG. The D1 caliber talent doesn't stop there, 6'0 JR PG Anthony Fields is one of the top PG's in a amazingly talented 2010 class. Fields is being watched by Marquette, Oakland, Dayton, and others. 6'8 Soph PF Percy Gibson is also a high-major prospect. Kentucky is recruiting Gibson hard. Gibson is the most productive big in his class as of right now. The 2009 Class at Southeastern features quick 6'1 PG Kimmani Boynton, as well as inside bruiser 6'7 PF Kyle Bryant. Other 2010 prospects who will produce include Top 15 6'0 PG Carlos Carter and 6'7 Football All-American Will Gholston, 6'6 F Josh Lyles, is another 2010 player who transferred in and is expected to produce right away. Lyles was a factor with the King James Shooting Stars program this spring/summer. But the talent doesn't stop there. 6'1 2011 G Davonte Carter is one of the elite players in his class right now, at least Top 15 in the state; and as for potential top prospects look no further than 6'10 Soph C Darren Washington, with continued progress, he may end up going to a higher level college than expected. Also watch out for two 6'5 2012 F's Dayshawn Crim and Dexter Morton.

Pre-Pre Season Michigan Top Teams

2008-10-20T08:16:00.000-07:00

I will start to give you my Top 10 teams, in Michigan, in no order, two per day, starting with Saginaw High and Detroit Country Day.

Saginaw High- The two-time defending state champs are again talented enough to win the state championship. Mike Green, the 6'1 G is one of the top guards in the state for the 2009 class, and is a D1 recruit. Mike will be the leader of the 2008-2009 Trojans team. Jimmie Davis, a 6'1 2009 SG, may be the best shooter in Michigan, his range is unlimited. Two transfers, Demetrius Simmons a 2009 6'2 PG from San Antonio, TX and 2010 6'3 Wing Malcolm Shaw from Joliet, IL will also have a huge impact on the team. Simmons, is one of the premier, if not the premier guard in Michigan's 2009 class; high major coaches have called on him. Shaw is a powerful wing player, who is very hard to stop when driving, and especially in transition, he has big-time hops. Tink Sherman, a 5'10 2010 PG has also garnered the attention of colleges, including D1 Loyola-Chicago, while Tink needs to pick up some weight, he is a very good shooter, who plays hard, and is a point guard who knows his role and doesn't try to do too much. Also returning from last years varsity in the 2010 class is 6'1 G Greg Hayes and 6'3 Wing Taveon Whitson. In the 2011 class is where the Trojans talent lies. 6'7 F Tommie McCune is one of the top 5 players in Michigan and is being recruited by Michigan State, Michigan, Tennessee, Boston College, Wake Forest, Xavier, and others, he will be big-time. Trey Babers, a 6'4 SG has the potential to be just as good, if not better than his cousin Draymond Green, who is now at Michigan State. Other services have Babers ranked #1 in Michigan at his position. 6'1 CG Marquavis Ford, is the top shooter in Michigan in the 2011 class, and he will also be a D1 recruit, there isn't that many players better than him in Michigan in the 2011 class. DeAnthony Arnette, a 6'0 PG will go D1 in whichever sport he chooses, football or basketball. Arnette is the best athlete in the state for his class, although he is one of the top 2011's in the country for football, he also is really good at BBall, it just isn't too many PG's as athletic, quick, and fast as him, anywhere. In the 2012 class, 6'6 F Kevin Marshall, is one of the top 5 players in his class, since he wears close to a size 20 shoe, its a safe bet he grows some more, but if he doesn't he will still go D1, he is the next great Trojan down the line!

Detroit Country Day-Coach Keener has himself one of the most talented teams in America. I mean how many squads can say they have 3 players going to high major conferences in their senior class? The most talented player on the team is without a doubt 7'0 2009 C Dashonte Riley who is headed to Georgetown. Whenever the switch turns on for him, and he decides he wants to just flat-out dominate, he will be a lottery pick. 6'8 2009 PF Donnovan Kirk, is a workhorse on the blocks and is headed to Miami-FL of the ACC. Kirk has a sweet jump hook, and his best days are still in front of him. 6'6 2009 Wing Jordan Dumars has one of the best corner jumpers I have seen in a long time. Dumars, who is the son of Joe, GM of the Detroit Pistons, doesn't always play hard, but if he did, he could be a pretty decent player. Dumars is headed to South Florida of the Big East. The high major talent doesn't stop there... Ray McCallum, a 6'1 PG is a Top 50 player nationally in the 2010 class. Loads of high majors are on him, including defending national champ Kansas, but word is he will be going to University of Detroit, to play for his father; Ray, SR. 6'10 2011 C Amir Williams, will also be a high major recruit when his time comes. Amir has the luxury that no other young big in Michigan has and that is to practice against other good big-men everyday. Lee Bailey, a 5'10 2011 PG is also a D1 prospect. Lee is a very good football player as well, but on the hardwood, there are very few if any PG's in the state who controls the game like he does. I wouldn't be surprised to see McCallum and Lee to start in the backcourt for the Yellowjackets. 6'2 2009 Wing Bennie Fowler, is as athletic as they come, and will help out this team immensely, he is the energetic, team-first player that all teams need. Last but not least, don't forget 6'6 2011 PF Urban Bigham. Urban, most likely will be a D1 football player, but he isn't a slouch on the hardwood. Bigham started for Detroit's Top summer program, The Family, and also got minutes on last summers Top 15u travel team, the Michigan Mustangs. I expect Country Day, to win their second Class B State Title in 3 years.

Steve Haney Update-C/O 2013

2008-10-10T17:47:00.000-07:00

-Steven Haney, a 6'4 Wing from Lansing, Michigan will be visiting Kentucky for Midnight Madness. Haney is a Top 3 8th grader in Michigan. Haney will most likely attend East Lansing for high school. Watch out for his progess throughout the years. He is also being watched very closely by Michigan State and Utah.

Updates-10/8/08

2008-10-08T19:13:00.000-07:00

-Nate Lubick, a 6'8 2010 F from Southborough, MA/St. Marks has committed to Georgetown. Many people including me thought he was definitely headed to Michigan. This is a huge blow to Michigan, but one that John Belien and staff should be able to recover from. Michigan is still in on numerous 2010 prospects like 6'7 SG Russell Byrd from Ft. Wayne, IN/Blackhawk Christian, Cameron Ayers, a 6'4 SG from Germantown, PA/Academy who is also Top 150, Trey Ziegler, and names that have been mentioned in the past like Tommy Droney, Austin Carroll, and Alex Gauna.

-James Still, a 6'9 PF from Detroit, MI/Community has committed to Providence. He is a top 10 player in Michigan's 2009 class.

-Kallante Miller, a 6'4 SG from Oak Park, MI/High has committed to Central Michigan. He may be the top defensive player in Michigan. HUGE pickup for Ernie Ziegler and staff.

-Ben Simons, a 6'7 SG from Cadillac, MI/High has committed to Drake. Simons is a very good shooter, and has great size.

-Watch out for Colin Voss a 6'7 F from East Grand Rapids, MI/High his high school coach Jared Reddell thinks with continued improvement he could be a easy high major. Voss is the best CF in Michigan.

-Isaiah Sykes a 6'5 SG from Detroit, MI/Finney is blowing up! One high major assistant told me he may be one of Detroit's top talents in the last 10 years. Can flat out score!!!! Michigan State, Syracuse, and Tennessee are in on him.

-Michigan State, Michigan, Tennessee, Boston College, and Xavier and others are actively recruiting 6'7 Soph PF Tommie McCune from Saginaw, MI/High.

-Michigan State is really pushing for Trey Ziegler. They have offered him, but he is still waiting, but just know Michigan State and Michigan are REALLY pushing for Trey.

-Michigan's 2010 class is absolutely loaded. Some services have Trey Ziegler, Keith Appling, Ray McCallum, Alex Gauna, and John Horford ranked nationally. This class is DEEP with talent. My new top 5 is:

1. Trey Ziegler 6'5 SG Mt. Pleasant
2. Isaiah Sykes 6'5 SG Detroit Finney
3. Keith Appling 6'1 G Detroit Pershing MICHIGAN STATE
4. Ray McCallum, JR 6'1 PG Detroit Country Day
5. Alex Gauna 6'9 PF Eaton Rapids

All 5 have high majors recruiting them, Sykes stock is on the up and up, and I'm going to be safe for now and put him at #2. But remember Appling and McCallum are ranked Top 50 nationally as well as Ziegler. John Horford, 6'8 PF, Grand Ledge, Mike Talley, 5'9 PG, Melvindale B&T, Devin Olver, 6'5 SG, Kalamazoo Central, Terrell Clinton, 6'6 Wing, Benton Harbor, Colin Voss, 6'7 F, East Grand Rapids, Matt Kaminiecki, 6'8 F, Clarkston, Anthony Fields, 6'0 PG, Detroit Southeastern, and many others will get mid D1 interest.

-Expect Detroit Southeastern to be one of the more talented teams in Michigan this year. The teams best player, as well as a top player in his class nationally is 6'5 G Brandan Kearney a 2011 player, but the talent doesn't stop there. Kearney's god-brother 6'8 2011 PF Percy Gibson, is also being recruited by high majors, including Kentucky, 2011 6'10 C Darren Washington is also good, and improving. In the 2009 class, 6'1 G Kimani Boynton and 6'7 PF Kyle Bryant are have talent to play at the next level. 6'0 2010 PG Anthony Fields will be a D1 recruit. William Gholston a 6'7 2010 PF is among the best football players in his class nationally, and also a very good hoop player. 6'0 2011 G Davonte Carter is also one of the top players in his class. Mark White is also one of the top coaches in Michigan, be on the lookout for this team!

-6'7 2009 Wing Jamil Wilson from Racine, WI/Horlick visited Michigan State last weekend, and it looked like he had a blast! If I was a betting man, I would think he will end up at MSU! He's Top 30 nationally in his class.

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Top Players In State/Nation

2008-09-23T19:46:00.000-07:00

We won't be updating the site as much as in the past. Alot of our attention will be putting on our subscribers for now on.

But here is our #1 Ranked Player in the state/country for
2009-2012... Michigan
2009 Desheante Riley 7'0 C Country Day
2010Trey Ziegler 6'5 G Mt. Pleasant
2011 Brandan Kearney 6'5 G Detroit Southeastern
2012 Ray Lee 6'2 G Robichaud

National
2009- John Wall 6'4 PG Word of God (NC)
2010- Jared Sullinger 6'8 C Northland (OH)
2011- Tony Wroten 6'4 SG Garfield (WA)
2012- Perry Ellis 6'8 F Heights (KS)

Recent Commitments-Holden Griener 2009 6'8 F Traverse City Francis LEHIGH
Clarence Trent 2009 6'8 F Findlay Prep (NV) WASHINGTON
Avery Bradley 2009 6'4 SG Findlay Prep (NV) TEXAS
Brandon Triche 2009 6'3 G Jamesville-Dewitt (NY) SYRACUSE
Abdul Gaddy 2009 6'4 PG Bellarmine Prep (WA) ARIZONA
Steve Bjornstad 2009 6'11 C Columbia River (WA) NEVADA
David Brown 2009 6'4 SG Honoegah (IL) WESTERN MICHIGAN
Noel Johnson 2009 6'7 SG Fayette County (GA) USC
Lenzelle Smith 2010 6'4 G Zion-Benton (IL) OHIO STATE
DJ Cooper 2009 5'10 PG Seton Academy (IL) OHIO U
Reggie Keely 2009 6'7 PG Cleveland Heights (OH) OHIO U
Ari Stewart 2009 6'7 Wing Wheeler (GA) WAKE FOREST
Jordan McCrae 2010 6'5 SG Liberty County (GA) TENNESSEE
Josh Selby 2010 6'2 PG DeMatha (MD) TENNESSEE
Jordan Siebert 2010 6'4 SG PRINCETON (OH) OHIO STATE
Duke Monday 2009 6'4 CG GR Catholic Central (MI) PROVIDENCE
Tyler Brown 2009 6'7 PF Eau Claire North (WI) CENTRAL MICHIGAN

Recruiting News-Russell Byrd, a Top 100 2010 player from Ft. Wayne, IN/Blackhawk's Top 5 is Michigan, Michigan State, Ohio State, Indiana, and Kentucky. Byrd may be the best shooter in his class -

Expect Syracuse and Ohio State to really turn up the heat in the Brandan Kearney race. The 6'5 2011 G from Detroit, MI/Southeastern is one of the top 20 players in the nation for 2011. Expect both to make a official offer very soon...U-M, Tennessee, Kentucky, MSU and others are also actively recruiting him -

The pick up Western Michigan got of David Brown was a big time one. The kid is one of the best players in the talent rich state of Illinois. And was one of the top NIKE players invited to the LeBron NIKE camp, a very hard invite to get! WMU got a good one. The kid can score in bunches! Played club ball with the Top summer program in IL, the Illinois Warriors. -

Expect Nate Lubick, Trey Ziegler, Brandan Kearney, Christian Vaughn, Percy Gibson, and a few others (will get complete list soon) at Michigan's football game this weekend -

Durand Scott, a Top 30 player nationally in the 2009 class who attends Manhattan, NY/Rice has a trimmed his list to five and it includes Tennessee, UCLA, Pittsburgh, UCONN, and Miami-FL, pretty surprising that Xavier didn't make it, as his former AAU coach Book Richardson is a assistant there. Scott can pretty much do everything, besides having a reliable jumpshot, and is one of the more versatile players in America. He's a coaches dream. -

Derrick Favors, BOTBScouting's #2 player in the country for 2009 has also announced his finalists and they are Georgia, Georgia Tech, UCONN, Memphis, Kentucky, and Florida State. Favors is a no-question one and done, and once he improves his face up game, will be pretty much unguardable.

News and Notes 9/7/08 8:04 PM

2008-09-07T16:54:00.000-07:00

-Michigan's 2009 class now has 3 players going to the Big East. 7'0 Desheante Riley from Country Day was the first to commit, when he picked Georgetown then 6'6 Jordan Dumars from Country Day picked South Florida. Now 6'3 CG Duke Monday from Grand Rapids, MI/Catholic Central has committed to the Providence Friars. We told you in the past, that Duke may sneak up on some people and go high-major; and well he did.

Monday was the 17u Michigan Mustangs best player in Las Vegas, along with 6'5 Drew Valentine from Lansing, MI/Sexton and 6'6 Doug Anderson from Kalamazoo Central. He can shoot lights out from the perimeter, doesn't back down from anyone, and can flat out get buckets. Expect Providence to continue try to recruit Michigan as one of their assistants, Chris Davis, has been actively recruit Michigan for a long time. Ben Simons, a 6'7 Wing from Cadillac, MI/High is also considering Providence, some say Central Michigan is the leader though.

-Reportedly the 2 leaders for 2010 6'8 PF Nate Lubick from Southborough, MA/St. Marks are Michigan and Georgetown.

News and Notes 9/4/08 7:53 PM

2008-09-04T16:51:00.000-07:00

-It looks like a package deal is in the works for two top 10 2009 prospects. 6'3 SG Avery Bradley from Henderson, NV/Findlay Prep and 6'7 Wing Jordan Hamilton from Compton, CA/Dominguez should both be committing to Texas very soon. Rick Barnes and his staff should be pretty happy, because with Bradley you have not only one of the best players, but also the best defender in the 2009 class. Jordan Hamilton is also a superb wing scorer, who is very strong. Bradley's other top school is UCLA, while Hamilton's is UCONN. Bradley recently transferred from Bellarmine Prep (WA) where he teamed with Top 15 prospect Abdul Gaddy, a 6'3 PG to give Bellarmine the top backcourt in the country.

-It is looking like 6'9 PF Tiny Gallon will be going to Mouth of Wilson, VA/Oak Hill Academy again this year. He was rumored to have transferred with 6'4 PG John Wall, a top 2 player nationally in the 2009 class at Raleigh, NC/Word of God Academy. Obviously that didn't work. This gives Oak Hill one of the premier big men in the country yet again.

-Aaron Craft, a 6'2 2010 CG from Findlay, OH/Liberty Benton has committed to the Tennessee Volunteers. Craft who is a Top 150 player in the country, is the type of player that programs win national championships with. He does all the little things like hit free throws, play D, rebound, pass, that helps teams win big games. Bruce Pearl got a great one! Craft plays with the All Ohio Red 2010 team that is the best team in the country for the 2010 division. The adidas sponsored team features 6 Top 150 prospects on its roster, and they play like a flat out team. Craft, while a little under the radar, is just as good as some of the other top guards in Ohio and the Midwest.

-Expect Michigan State to have 5'10 JR PG Terrance "Tink" Sherman, 6'1 Soph SG Marquavis Ford, 6'4 CG Trey Babers, 6'8 Soph F Tommie McCune, 6'6 Fresh Wing Jordan Hare, and 6'6 Fresh F Kevin Marshall, JR all from Saginaw High to be at their football game next weekend. Also Expect Michigan to have 6'5 Soph Brandan Kearney, 6'10 Soph Darren Washington, and 6'8 Soph Percy Gibson all from Detroit Southeastern and 6'2 Fresh Ray Lee from Robichaud and 6'1 Fresh Cameron Fowler from U-D Jesuit at their football game. These lists aren't final, those will be put up at the end of the week.

-Former Saginaw High coach, Charlie Coles who is the head coach of Miami-OH, has possibly the best mid-major haul of prospects then any other mid-major in the country. Their 2009 class will include 6'9 PF/C Drew McGhee from North Ridgeville, OH/High, 6'3 Wing Allen Roberts from Middletown, OH/High, 6'8 C Drew Kelley from Franklin, TN/Centennial, and JUCO star 6'8 Wing Mark Anderson from Sinclair JC (OH), and 6'4 Orlando Williams Cincinnati, OH/Princeton.

News and Notes 9/2/08 12:53 PM

2008-09-02T09:44:00.000-07:00

-Anthony Fields a Top 5 PG in the loaded Michigan 2010 class, is getting looks from some bigtime schools. The 6'0 Detroit Southeastern PG, has been talking to Marquette, Dayton, Central Michigan, and Oakland. He has interest from Arizona, Florida, Marquette, Dayton, CMU, EMU, Oakland, Detroit, and Bowling Green. This month he will take visits to Marquette and Dayton.

Fields played AAU basketball last year with Chicago Express. Fields transferred from Lake Orion to powerhouse Detroit Southeastern in the summer. In addition to fields Southeastern features 2009 prospects 6'7 Kyle Bryant and 6'1 Kimani Boynton, 2010 prospects 6'0 Carlos Carter and 6'6 William Gholston. But at Southeastern, the class of 2011 is where the talent lies. Michigan's top 2011 prospect 6'5 Brandan Kearney, Top 5 2011 prospect 6'8 Percy Gibson, and 6'10 Darren Washington, who has the potential to be a great player at Southeastern, and they also have transfer 6'0 G Davonte Carter, whom people are calling a Top 10 player in the 2011 class in Michigan. The Jungaleers should be a force in the Detroit PSL.

-Top 2011 prospect, Jamal Branch a 6'3 PG from Humble, TX/Atoscocita, has committed to the Texas A&M program, according to sources close to the program. Branch is a athletic PG, that is a great scorer, but can also get his teammates involved. He is a easy Top 20 player nationally. He plays in the summer with the Houston Swoosh program.

News and Notes 8/30/08 10:30 PM

2008-08-30T19:30:00.001-07:00

-The Michigan game didn't have all the recruits that were expected to come. Trey Ziegler, couldn't make it because of flight problems from Atlanta, but will be at next weekends game. One of America's elite freshman, Ray Lee also couldn't make it. Alex Gauna, Michigan's top 2010 big man, also didn't come.

-Speedy Walker, Director of The Family has given me updates on the premier guards in his program. 2010's Mike Talley, a 5'9 PG from Melvindale Business & Technology, school list includes Iowa, Iowa State, Detroit, Penn St., Dayton, Miami (OH), Western Michigan, Central Michigan, and Eastern Michigan. 2010's Kavonte Martin, a 6'2 SG from Birmingham Brother Rice, school list includes Dayton, Michigan, UNC-Wilmington, Central Michigan, and Miami (OH). 2011's Carlton Brundidge, a 6'1 CG from Southfield, school list includes Michigan State, Michigan, Miami (FL), Ohio State, Xavier, and Oregon.

LD

BREAKING NEWS!!!

2008-08-29T21:17:00.000-07:00

Chase Simon, who was one of the top 10 Players in Michigan's loaded 2007 class, decided to transfer to Detroit today. Out of high school, Chase was being recruited by high majors, and opted to go with Ernie Ziegler at Central Michigan, who is one of the best mid-major recruiters in the biz. Chase decided to transfer from Central Michigan last year, but has landed at Detroit with Ray McCallum. Detroit will quickly shoot to the top of the Horizon League with the players they have acquired since McCallum took over the reigns at U of D. Remember, they also signed 7'3 Jason Bennett who was a Top 100 prospect out of high school in 2006, Eli Holman a 6'10 PF who played at Indiana last year, but red-shirted; also 6'7 Thomas Kennedy from Mott JC (Flint, MI), who was a JC All-America, as well as other good players. So it looks like the U-D Program is on the up and up.

Other Detroit Titan tidbits

-Detroit is in 6'9 2009 PF James Still's Top 5 along with Baylor, Purdue, Providence, and Marquette. Still, would be a Top 100 prospect nationally if he was stronger. He started the AAU season off with The Family, before switching over to the Detroit Fire.

-Detroit is also targeting in the 2009 class 6'3 Wing Bobby Lewis from Mott JC as well as 6'7 PF DeAndre Neely from Mott JC. Bobby played at Saginaw High while DeAndre played at Detroit Central. The Titans also like 6'1 SG Mike Green from Saginaw High in the 2009 class as well.

-The Titans main targets for the 2010 class right now is 5'9 PG Mike Talley from Melvindale Busineess & Tech, 6'10 C Corey Petros from Utica Eisenhower, and 6'7 SF Mohommed Conde from Belleville.

Campus Visitors 8/30/08

2008-08-29T20:45:00.000-07:00

The Michigan Wolverines will play host to some of Michigan and New England's Top Talent tomorrow as the following recruits will be attending their opening game:

Trey Ziegler 2010 6'5 G Mt. Pleasant (May not be able to make it, due to being out of town)
Ray McCallum 2010 6'1 PG Country Day
Alex Gauna 2010 6'9 PF Eaton Rapids
Matt Kaminiecki 2010 6'8 F Clarkston
Evan Smotrycz 2010 6'9 F New Hampton Prep (NH)
LaDante Henton 2011 6'5 F Lansing Eastern
Tommie McCune 2011 6'8 F Saginaw High
Amir Williams 2011 6'10 C Country Day
Matt Poches 2011 6'4 Wing Hartland
Christian Vaughn 2012 6'2 PG St. Mark's (Mass)
Ray Lee 2012 6'2 SG Robichaud
Jordan Hare 2012 6'6 Wing Saginaw High
Kevin Marshall 2012 6'6 F Saginaw High
Dorian Dawkins 2013 5'10 PG Saginaw Central Middle

News and Notes 8/29/08 4:16 PM

2008-08-29T13:15:00.000-07:00

-Steven Haney, won the poll for being the best young player in Michigan, which was voted on by the fans. Haney is a 6'4 Wing, who can stroke the 3-ball as good as anyone in his class. Haney, who is from the Lansing area, is loaded with potential, and high major D1s have already started paying attention.

-It looks as if the leader for 6'5 2009 Wing Roger Franklin from Duncanville, TX/High is UCLA. Expect Franklin to take visits to UCLA, Oklahoma, Oklahoma St., Arizona, and Michigan St. But people are saying, if the Bruins push hard for Franklin, he is theirs. Franklin is a top 75-100 player in the 2009 class. He has a work-horse inside-outside game, and maybe even more effective in the inside, as that is the position he played all his life, until moving out a little more on the wing this year.

-Givon Crump, a 6'7 2009 CF from Wolfeboro, NH/Brewster Academy will take visits to Michigan, Oregon State, and Rutgers. The word is his current favorite is Oregon State. Crump is a very good out-side shooter, and could make a few time transition to the wing, with added speed and quickness; right now he is a defensive liability on the wing. He is among the Top 30 forwards nationally in the 2009 class.

-Markus Kennedy, a 6'9 2010 C from Elizabeth, NJ/St. Patrick's recruiting stock is steadily rising. Although I have him in my top 100 players nationally, he still is a sleeper to some. Expect that to change as he will be playing at St. Patrick's this year with top players like North Carolina commit, 6'3 2009 SG Dexter Strickland, 6'7 2011 Phenom Wing Mike Gilchrist, and high major 2010 PG Kyrie Irving. According to Matt Pauls, the director of Team NJ ABC, the travel team Kennedy stars for, Markus has offers from Villanova, Rutgers, Penn State, Miami, Xavier, and St. John's. His two leaders at the present time are Villanova and Rutgers. As he gets into better shape, and loses some weight, expect Markus to be one of the elite centers nationally in the 2010 class.

-BOTBScouting Contributor, Alex Schwartz, attended the Boost Mobile Elite 24 Classic, and came away with lots of recruiting lists. 6'8 Wing Laquinton Ross from Jackson, MS/Murrah, arguably the top player nationally in the 2011 class, recruiting list is Texas, Florida, USF, Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Arkansas, Alabama, Syracuse. His current favorites are all the schools in Mississippi (Mississippi State, Ole Miss), Baylor,and Texas. Derrick Favors the 6'9 2009 Man-child PF recruiting list is Georgia, Georgia Tech, Florida, Florida State, Memphis, UCLA, UConn, North Carolina State,Kentucky,and Kansas. Expect Favors to go to either Georgia or Georgia Tech. Schwartz has great info on his very own blog, and it can be found at blog.northstarbball.com

-Vote on the new poll, and SUBSCRIBE to the BOTBScouting Newsletters, for all the up to date National Player Rankings, Michigan Player Rankings, Team Rankings, Recruiting Updates, Player Interviews, and much more. This site is just a little of what we offer. Our newsletters, which are sent through e-mail is second to none, in the recruiting website business.

News and Notes 8/26/08 4:37 PM

2008-08-26T13:37:00.000-07:00

-Memphis should continue to be amongst the top teams in the country in the next few years because of a player they picked up today. CJ Henry, big brother of Xavier Henry a 6'6 Wing from Oklahoma City, OK/Putnam City, and the #4 player in the country by Best of the Best Scouting, has decided to play basketball with the Tigers instead of the Kansas Jayhawks. Of course, Xavier's co-leaders are Memphis and Kansas. But with his big brother on the team, I would bet that he picks Memphis. CJ, was drafted in the first round of the MLB Draft by the NY Yankees, but his been injury prone ever since. He will still play baseball in the summers while at Memphis. But here is also something interesting, I have heard that Kansas may be thinking about hiring Xavier and CJ's father, Carl as the director of basketball operations. Some even say he is the leader for the job. The job is now open because Ronnie Chalmers, father of Mario Chalmers, resigned after his son declared early for the NBA Draft this year. Pretty interesting stuff!

-Jamil Wilson a 6'7 Wing from Racine, WI/Horlick, a Top 30 player nationally in the 2009 class, by Best of the Best Scouting, is considered by many a virtual lock for Michigan State. Wilson is incredibly athletic, a great ball handler for his size, and a superb passer. He was hurt a good portion of this summer though. Michigan State, already a perennial powerhouse, is starting to get to the point, where they get basically whoever they want. Delvon Roe-Check, Keith Appling-Check, Derrick Nix-Check, the Spartan staff is getting it done, huge props to Izzo, Monty, DJ, and Garland. Can you imagine a team with Kalin Lucas, Chris Allen, Durrell Summers, Delvon Roe, Korie Lucious, Draymond Green, Jamil Wilson, Derrick Nix, Keith Appling, and Garrick Sherman. Pretty scary!

-Expect Texas A&M to start recruiting 6'9 PF Nate Lubick from Southborough, MA/St. Mark's. Basically everyone is trying to recruit this kid. He's bigtime!

-Indiana, may be down talent wise right now, but don't expect that to last for long. Matt Carlino a 6'2 Combo Guard in the 2011 Class from Scottsdale, AZ/Highland committed to Tom Crean and the Hoosiers over the weekend. Carlino is a Top 25 player nationally right now, and I can't see him finishing off his high school career any lower than Top 50. Indiana, reportedly is also in the lead for potential-pro Christian Watford a 6'9 F from Birmingham, AL/Shades Valley, although Watford may not be the best player right now, he has a tailor-made NBA small forward game. Also Indiana, has shot up very high on 6'6 Wing Dominic Cheek's for Jersey City, NJ/St. Anthony's list, and he is amazing; easy top 15 player nationally in the 2009 class. Cheek has taken a greater interest in Indiana because of the recent hire of Roshown McCleod, who is from Jersey City, NJ; and has known Cheek for years. Watch out Big Ten!

News and Notes 8/24/08 7:23 PM

2008-08-24T16:22:00.000-07:00

-Michigan is looking really good for Nate Lubick a 6'8 F from Southborough, MA/St. Mark's and Trey Ziegler a 6'5 G from Mt. Pleasant, MI/High. Both are 2010 prospects, and top 25-30 players nationally.

-Chris Driscoll, General Manager of the BABC elite travel team, has informed us that both of his star 2010 guards Phil Pressey of Dallas, TX/Episcopal School and Gerard Coleman of Tilton, NH/Schools recruiting is in the early stages...but as of right now, Pressey's list includes UCONN, Texas, Missouri, Florida, and Providence. Coleman's has solid offers from UCONN, Louisville,Providence, Kansas State, Boston College, Clemson, Purdue, Wake Forest, LSU and Georgia Tech.

-Darren Washington, a 6'9 2011 C from Detroit, MI/Southeastern has picked up an offer from Cleveland St. Don't be surprised if this kid goes high major. He will most likely be 7 feet, he plays extremely hard, and has a passion for the game. Expect Detroit Southeastern to have 3 high major players in the 2011 class, with Washington, 6'8 PF Percy Gibson and 6'5 G Brandan Kearney.

-Although the Elite 24 Boost Mobile Game was nothing more than a open gym run, and even open gym's have more structure, players that did play well included Lance Stephenson 2009 6'5 Wing Brooklyn,NY/Lincoln, Dominic Cheek 2009 6'6 Wing Jersey City, NJ/St. Anthony's, 2009 Dexter Strickland 6'3 Wing Elizabeth, NJ/St. Patrick's, and Brandon Knight 6'3 2010 PG Ft. Lauderdale, FL/Pinecrest.

-We are hearing that St. John's could be the college destination of 6'6 Wing Kevin Parrom of South Kent, CT/Prep and 6'5 Wing Lance Stephenson of Brooklyn, NY/Lincoln. Expect St. John's recruiting to take off with the recent hires of two New York City travel basketball powerhouse coaches Oz Cross of the NY Panthers and Kimani Young of New Heights.

-Some expect Marc Loving a 6'5 Wing from Toledo, OH/Deveaux Middle to be the best player ever from Toledo. That's saying something since former NBA Player Jimmy Jackson and McDonald's All-American William Buford are both from Toledo. Loving is in the class of 2013.

-Vote on the new poll, and subscribe using the Pay Pal.

LD

Steven Haney Recruiting Update

2008-08-20T03:21:00.000-07:00

I know the headline sounds pretty funny but it is true, Steven Haney a 6'4 Wing from Lansing, MI in the 2013 class is already getting recruited by the most prestigious program in college basketball, the University of Kentucky. Billy Gillespie the Kentucky coach has been known to recruit young, and Haney is one of the players he has targeted.

Haney has took an unofficial visit to Kentucky already. Haney dropped 40 on the highly regarded Spiece-Blackmon 2013 team at a event while playing with his local Michigan Blaze team and that is when Kentucky started recruiting him. Spiece's coach played at Kentucky, and supposedly put in a call to Gillespie about Haney. Haney is a long 6'4 with an advanced offensive game. He is a deadly shooter from outside, and is just a good scorer all around. His dad is a Lansing legend (Steven Haney, SR) who went on to play at Loyola Marymount. And by the way, his cousin on his mom's side just happens to be the best player ever from Michigan, Magic Johnson.

News and Notes 8/20/08 6:10 AM

2008-08-20T02:36:00.000-07:00

-Make sure to tune in Friday on ESPNU at 8 PM EDT, to watch the Boost Mobile Elite 24 Game at the legendary Rucker Park. Top players that will be playing include Jared Sullinger 2010 6'8 PF/C Columbus, OH/Northland, Tony Wroten 2011 6'5 Wing Seattle, WA/Garfield, Lance Stephenson 2009 6'5 Wing Brooklyn, NY/Lincoln, and Laquinton Ross 2011 6'8 Wing Raleigh, NC/Word of God Academy, among others. This will be the best all-star game of the summer.

-Omari Lawrence a 6'4 SG from South Kent, CT/Prep is expected to verbally commit to St. John's tomorrow morning after a meeting with Coach Norm Roberts and staff. Lawrence is a Top 100 player, and would have been a Top 5 Player in New York City had he not transferred to South Kent from St. Raymond's in the Bronx.

-Ray McCallum, JR a 6'1 dynamo PG from Country Day in Detroit is really getting love from Kansas and Louisville. His top 2 at this present time are Kansas and Detroit, according to a source close to the situation.

-The University of Detroit is really turning up the heat on two elite junior college players from the powerhouse Mott in Flint, MI. They are 6'3 Wing Bobby Lewis who hails from Saginaw, MI/High and 6'8 PF DeAndre Neely from Detroit, MI/Central. Central Michigan is also on Neely hard, while Butler, Mississippi State are also recruiting Bobby Lewis. Bobby signed with Jackson State out of Saginaw High.

-OK, Memphis may have lost Joey Dorsey inside to the Houston Rockets, but help is on the way. Although I have never seen their recent commitment Will Coleman, the 6'9 PF/C from Miami, FL/Dade JC appears incredibly athletic. Check out his highlights...they are amazing. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iQmIhTxTNo

-Ray Lee a 6'2 2012 Wing from Dearborn, MI/Robichaud and Cameron Fowler a 6'1 2012 G from Detroit, MI/U-D Jesuit, represented Michigan well, last weekend at the Buckeye Prep Report Showcase, Both were named top 5 performers. I may have have Fowler to low in my last rankings... (look for updated ones soon if you have subscribed) Reportedly, Elijah Macon a 6'7 F from Columbus, OH/Marion-Franklin was the top player in the 2012 division, and Marc Loving a 6'5 Wing from Toledo, OH/Deveaux Middle was the top player in the 2013 division.

-Obviously, my readers think that Keith Appling, not Trey Ziegler is the #1 overall player in the state. Keith is bigtime, that's for sure. One thing we can agree on is the best player in Michigan does come from the 2010 class. Although I really do love Keith's game, Trey is still the best player in Michigan, in my eyes. VOTE on the new poll.

-My Boot Camp this pass weekend had lots of talent in it. 6'6 2012 Wing Jordan Hare, 6'6 2012 PF Kevin Marshall, and 6'8 2011 PF Tommie McCune all of Saginaw High, showed why Saginaw is still one of the more talented areas in the state. 5'10 2010 PG Terrance Sherman, 6'4 2011 CG Trey Babers and 6'3 2010 Illinois transfer Malcolm Shaw also were standout campers from Saginaw High. Other standout campers included 2011 6'3 Flint, MI/Hamady Wing Pierre Brackett, 2011 5'9 Connor McCane from Rockford, MI/High, 2012 6'2 PG Christian Vaughn Southborough, MA/St. Mark's, 2010 Mark Maloney 6'3 Wing from Ohio, 2010 Roy Jackson a 6'2 PG from Flint, MI/Hamady, AJ Thomas a 5'9 2010 PG from Saginaw, MI/Heritage, 2011 6'1 SG Jaylen Bland from Saginaw, MI/Arthur Hill and 2013 Dorian Dawkins a 5'10 PG from Saginaw, MI/Central Middle.

-But don't forget about the LADIES! Diamond Tolliver a 5'5 2010 PG from Saginaw High, Porsha Fluker a 5'7 2011 PG from Flint Hamady, Daviel Thomas a 5'6 2010 PG from Saginaw Heritage were also bigtime campers on the female side.

Best Travel Teams Of the 07-08 Year

2008-08-13T13:06:00.000-07:00

Although you will have to subscribe to our newsletters (To your right) to get our full rankings, such as players and team, we still feel like we should give you a little taste of what a subscriber gets at Best of the Best Scouting. Therefore, we will give you a profile, on 3 random top travel teams from each shoe companies stable (adidas, Reebok, and NIKE) this year. Now, these aren't our top 3 teams, just a preview. Hopefully this encourages you to subscribe!

New England Playaz
Program Director-TJ Gassnola
Affiliation-adidas
Top Players-Erik Murphy 2009 6'10 PF Southborough, MA/St. Marks FLORIDA, Nate Lubick 2010 CF Southborough, MA/St. Marks, Jason Morris 2010 6'5 Wing Hephzibah, GA/Hotchkiss School (CT), Austin Carroll 2009 6'3 SG Worcester, MA/Academy, Jordan Williams 2009 6'8 PF Torrington, CT/High, Nadir Tharpe 2011 5'10 PG Worcester, MA/Brewster Academy (NH)
Tourney Results-Won adidas Take 5 (Not Platinum Division), Runner Up at Providence JamFest (Silver) Final 8 at adidas Super 64
Key Wins-Atlanta Celtics, DC Assault, New York Panthers, KC Pump N Run
Key Looses-Juice All-Stars, Team Expressions Elite, BABC, Franchize All-Stars
(Word on the street is Carroll and Williams will both reclass into 2010 and be back with the Playaz next year.)

Mac Irvin Fire
Program Director-Nick/Mac Irvin
Affiliation-NIKE
Top Players-Mike Shaw 2011 6'8 CF Chicago, IL/DeLaSalle, Crandall Head 2010 6'5 Wing Chicago, IL/Crane, Terry Johnson 2009 6'1 CG Chicago, IL/St. Rita, Chris Colvin 2009 6'2 PG Chicago, IL/Whitney Young
Tourney Results-Champs at Spiece Run N Slam, Desert Duel Memorial, Chicago Summer Classic. Final Four at NIKE Main Event in Las Vegas.
Key Wins-Atlanta Celtics, Spiece Indy Heat, BeachBall Select
Key Looses-Rising Stars, California Supreme
(Will be even better next year as Shaw and Head, both top 15 players in their classes are back, and another Top 15-20 Wayne Blackshear 2011 6'5 Chicago, Curie and a Top 25-30 Sam Thompson 2011 6'6 Chicago/Whitney Young will also be on the 17s. They will most likely be the best team in the country next year.)

DC Triple Threat
Program Director-Keith Stevens
Affiliation-Reebok
Top Players-Chris Braswell 2009 6'9 PF Chatham, VA/Hargrave, Maurice Creek 2009 6'5 SG Chatham, VA/Hargrave INDIANA
Tourney Results- Final 4 at RBK Summer Championships, Runner-Up at Create or Finish Classic
Key Wins-Nashville Celtics, Franchize All-Stars
Key Looses- Team Breakdown, D-One Sports
(Should be talented again next year, as its 16s finished 2nd at Bob Gibbons, to rival DC Assault)

NOTE- Although we didn't profile them, the hands down best summer PROGRAM in the country is DC Assault. No other program is stacked top to bottom like them, they have high majors on their 2nd teams. The most talented 17u team this year also was Boo Williams. With BWSL I don't even have to name players, just think about this, players that came off their bench are committed to Duke, Clemson, and Virginia.

Premier 2011 Forward Commits

2008-08-13T12:56:00.000-07:00

Chane Behanan, a 6'6 CF from Cincinnati, OH/Aiken has committed to his hometown program the Cincinnati Bearcats. It is nice to see that Cincy is getting back to their old ways of getting top players like they did when Bob Huggins was at the helm. Mick Cronin is known as a fantastic recruiter in basketball circles, from his days on Rick Pitino's staff.

Chane is a monster down low, and he has the best body I have seen from a high school freshman. He has tree trunks for legs, and he's amazingly athletic. Even if he doesn't grow a inch, he still will be a big time force in college. If he gets 6'9, LOTTERY PICK! His best attributes are rebounding, finishing through contact, running the floor, and just flat out playing hard.

Chane led his Ohio Basketball Club 15s to Championships at the prestigious Bob Gibbons and Pittsburgh JamFest. They also made it to the Final Four in Vegas at the adidas Super 64. This is a big time player, and a extremely big time get for Mick Cronin and the Cincy staff. -LD

Scouting Reports from Vegas

2008-08-12T12:35:00.000-07:00

Best of the Best Prep Basketball Scouting's Top 5 Players from Vegas:

1. Kenny Boynton 6'2 CG Plantation, FL/American Heritage- Destroyed everyone that stepped out on the floor against him. Led his team to the RBK Summer Championships title, and followed that up with a AAU National Championship, a feat that he helped Team Breakdown also accomplish last year. Right now, may be the most effective player in high school basketball scoring wise, although others may have more NBA Potential. Very aggressive defensively, and plays hard to the final whistle. Needs to go to a college that runs and guns, and we hear Duke may be his final choice. Outside game is very affective, sweet stroke to 25 feet. I would like to see him develop more of a point guard game, that would improve his stock tremendously. Bottom line is, he's a flat out assassin and a flat out winner.

2. Ray Penn 5'10 PG Richmond, TX/Ft. Bend Travis- Playing with the Houston Superstars Ray completely killed everyone in Vegas. Averaging 35 ppg, no one did it like him. He played himself from virtual unknown to a Big 12 PG, as he committed to Oklahoma State right after Vegas. He can score with the best of them, and is insanely quick. Although he wasn't playing with the most talented team, he still did his best to lead his team to victories. At OK ST, he won't have to take all those shots, which will make him look like a better PG. Top 50 player.

3. John Wall 6'4 PG Raleigh, NC/Word of God Academy- The best PG in high school since Derrick Rose. Wall is the total package, once he gets a jumper, its all over. One and done talent. Unbelievably fast with the ball in his hands, and also a very adept, crafty passer. Sometimes goes for the fancy play, but 9/10 times he's still gonna complete the play. His only weakness is his jumper, but he also needs to tighten up his handle. In college they will zone him like Team Breakdown did , so he really needs to tighten up the J. In Vegas, he had games like 30 pts and 10 assists, he's dangerous. Could be a future #1 pick. Baylor is reportedly the leader, as they recently hired his AAU coach.

4. Junior Cadougan 6'0 PG Toronto, ON/Christian Life- TX- Led his Grassroots Canada team to the adidas Super 64 championship, which was a shock to everyone. Pudgy point guard, that is a Khalid El-Amin clone, gets in the paint with ease; and once he's there he does something good with the rock. Leader on the floor at all times, which shows why his team won the chip. Not the most athletic player, but he still gets the job done. Doesn't have a extremely high ceiling like John Wall, but he still figures to be a pretty good college player. Was excellent as a high school freshman, it looks to be back in that form after weight issues. Marquette commit.

5. Derrick Favors 6'9 PF Atlanta, GA/South- Played for the always ridiculously talented Atlanta Celtics in Vegas, and didn't disappoint. Runs the floor extremely well. Sometimes guards on his squad didn't give him the ball, but he still worked hard, i.e. getting rebounds, blocking shots, playing defense; which may have been the most impressive thing that he did. Extremely good shot blocker and rebounder. Help side defense is good at times, which is a surprise in AAU basketball. Needs to improve his mid-range jump shot game, to be more of a threat in high school. Some in the Atlanta area, said during the season that he was better than Dwight Howard, at the same stage, and although he has that type of potential, I don't think he has Dwight's intensity. Big time player, recruitment will ultimately come down to Georgia Tech and Georgia, reports say.

Other players of note- Brandon Knight 2010 6'2 PG Ft. Lauderdale, FL/PineCrest- Team Breakdown, Avery Bradley 2009 6'3 SG Bellarmine, WA/Prep- Northwest Panthers, Abdul Gaddy 2009 6'3 PG Bellarmine, WA/Prep- Northwest Panthers, Tony Wroten 2011 6'5 SG Seattle, WA/Garfield- Seattle Rotary, Laquinton Ross 2011 6'8 Wing Raleigh, NC/Word of God-MBA Hoops Elite, Trey Ziegler 2010 6'5 CG Mt. Pleseant, MI/High- Team Detroit, Nate Lubick 2010 6'8 F Southborough, MA/St. Mark's-New England Playaz, Erik Murphy 2009 6'10 PF Southborough, MA/St. Mark's- New England Playaz, Jordan Williams 2009 6'8 PF Torrington, CT/High-New England Playaz, Joe Burton 2009 6'8 C Hemet, CA/West Valley-Compton Magic, Roberto Nelson 2009 6'4 CG Santa Barbara, CA/High-Compton Magic, Maurice Creek 2009 6'5 SG Chatham, VA/Hargrave-Triple Threat DC, Michael Snear 2009 6'5 SG Moreno Valley, CA/Rancho Verde-Inland RBK

Nate Lubick Recruiting Update

2008-08-09T18:21:00.000-07:00

Nate Lubick a 6'8 F from Southborough, MA/St. Mark's is easily one of the best players in the 2010 class. At 6'8 Nate can shoot, dribble, pass, he's athletic, he is the total package. And his college list shows that we aren't the only people that think he's the real deal.

According to Nate at the present time Nate is considering Michigan, UCLA, Stanford, Norte Dame, Virginia, Georgetown, Duke, Florida, and Texas. While others may still be recruiting him, those are the 9 schools he's considering. Subscribe, to get Nate's favorite from a source very close to the situation.

(Scout.com picture)

LDawkins

New Message Board

2008-08-09T13:51:00.000-07:00

The Best of the Best Prep Basketball Scouting Message board can be located at http://botbscouting.proboards59.com/index.cgi. A link will also be posted on the right. Please post your thoughts on everything basketball related!LDawkins

Vote!

2008-08-09T11:40:00.000-07:00

A new poll was uploaded! Vote for who you think is the Best Player in Michigan. Poll to your right! VOTE! Also Links was uploaded on the side with the best sites on the web!

LDawkins

Trey and Ray rep Michigan in adidas Event!

2008-08-08T19:13:00.000-07:00

Trey Ziegler a 6'5 CG from Mt. Pleaseant and Michigan newcomer Ray McCallum, JR a 6'1 PG from Country Day, both 2010 prospects are down in Dallas, TX until August 12, playing for the United States 2010 National team in the adidas Nations event. adidas Nations is a year round program, composed of primarily adidas kids from adidas travel teams, that competes against other adidas teams. Other teams are the United States 2009 team, Canada, Asia, Latin America, Europe, and Africa.

Top players in this event include Lance Stephenson a 6'5 Wing from Brooklyn, NY/Lincoln, Dexter Strickland a 6'3 PG from Rahway, NJ/St. Patrick's, Jared Sullinger a 6'8 PF from Columbus, OH/Northland, Anthony Wroten a 6'4 2011 CG from Seattle/Garfield, Tristan Thompson a 6'8 Wing from Toronto, ON/St. Benedicts (NJ), and Greg Echenique a 6'9 C who recently enrolled in Rutgers, and plays for the Latin America Team. What makes the adidas Nations more exciting is the college players who will play and NBA Players and Coaches who will serve as counselors. College players in attendance include 6'6 USC Frosh Wing DeMar Derozen, 6'5 Tennessee Frosh Wing Scotty Hopson, 6'5 DePaul Soph Wing Dar Tucker, 6'1 UCLA PG Darren Collison, 6'9 Mississippi St. PF Jarvis Varnardo, and 6'6 Pittsburgh Soph PF Dejuan Blair. NBA Players include Josh Smith of the Atlanta Hawks, Antwan Jamison of the Washington Wizards, and Desmond Mason of the Milwaukee Bucks. Paul Silas former NBA Coaching legend is also coaching the United States 2009 team.

Against Africa, Trey and Ray both had 8 points a piece. Both played well, and the United States 2010 team beat Africa by 30 points.

Lou Dawkins Basketball Boot Camp

2008-08-08T19:05:00.000-07:00

DATES: AUGUST 16, 2008
TIME: 8AM-12 NOON (SESSION I MALES) REGISTRATION BEGINS AT 7AM
1PM-5PM (SESSION II FEMALES) REGISTRATION BEGINS AT NOON
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: AUGUST 13, 2008 COST: $30
(Limited space- only 40 spots available) DOOR REGISTRATION $40
GRADES: 6TH-12TH
CAMP STAFF: Camp Director- Coach Lou Dawkins, Saginaw High School
LOCATION: SAGINAW HIGH SCHOOL
CAMP FEATURES: Individual Competitions/Conditioning/Fundamental Drills/Low
Camper-Coach Ratio.
CAMP OBJECTIVES: This camp is designed to help prepare athletes for their schools
basketball tryouts. Campers will be given fundamental instruction to help improve their
ability to play the game of basketball. Campers will also participate in daily drills and
games to work on and improve basic techniques. Conditioning and discipline will also be
emphasized at this camp. Boot Camp is open to all area athletes grades 6th-12th.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BASKETBALL BOOT CAMP REGISTRATION MAY BE COMPLETED IN
PERSON, OR BY MAIL. NO PHONE REGISTRATION.
RETURN TO: 3100 WEBBER ST.
SAGINAW, MI 48601
ATTENTION: COACH LOU A. DAWKINS
Email: ladawkins@spsd.net
PLEASE PRINT:
CAMPERS NAME
___________________________________________DOB__________________DATE_______________
____
ADDRESS____________________________________________________ZIP_____________PHONE__
____________________
PARENTS NAME______________________________________
EMERGENCY/CELL#_________________________________
AGE_____________GRADE FALL 08__________
1. The undersigned hereby releases, waives, discharges and covenants not to sue the boot camp
director, its directors, officers, employees, and agents (“the releases”) from all liability to
the undersigned, his or her personal representatives, assigns, heirs, and next of kin for any loss
or damage, and any claim or demands therefore on account of injury to the person or property
or resulting in death of the undersigned, WHETHER CAUSED BY THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE
RELEASEES OR OTHERWISE while the undersigned is in, upon, or about the premises.
2. THE UNDERSIGNED HEREBY ASSUMES FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY RISK OF
BODILY INJURY, DEATH, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE DUE TO NEGLIGENCE OF RELEASEES.
3. The undersigned further assumes full responsibility for any lost or stolen items while attending
the boot camp.
The undersigned has read and voluntarily signs the release and waiver of liability and indemnity
agreement, and further agrees that no oral representations, statements, or inducement apart
from the foregoing written agreement have been made.
I HAVE READ THIS RELEASE
_____/_____/_____ __________________________________________________
date parent or guardian’s signature

Spartans secure elite Michigan player!

2008-08-08T15:37:00.000-07:00

Keith Appling verbally commits!

Spartan head coach can relax a little bit. Keith Appling, Best of the Best's #2 player in Michigan has committed to Michigan State, after considering offers from a slew of other schools including Tennessee, Michigan, Cincinnati, and Oklahoma. Keith is one of the better scorers in the country, and at 6-2 can also play some point guard.

Michigan State has been his dream school since the beginning. In one published report, it states that Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo compared Keith to a former Spartan great, Mateen Cleaves, and a great Spartan player now, Kalin Lucas. Now, Michigan State, can focus on recruiting, 6'5 Trey Ziegler from Mt. Pleasant, MI (High) and 6'5 Brandan Kearney from Detroit, MI (Southeastern). Both are the top players in Michigan in their classes, 2010 and 2011; and both are combo guards.

Post Summer Report

2008-08-08T15:19:00.001-07:00

Best of the Best Scouting Service
Post Summer Report

By Lou Dawkins
FREE REPORT

After watching games at the adidas Super 64 and The Reebok Summer Championships, I came away thinking one thing, Michigan high school basketball, may not be as good as it once was, but it is still, per capita, one of; if not the best basketball state in America. The Michigan Mustangs, Michigan Hurricanes, Grand Rapids Storm, West Michigan Lakers, and Camp Darryl where just some of the Michigan travel basketball powerhouses out in Vegas, and each organization had marquee performance from Michigan’s top players. So please don’t believe the myth, Michigan basketball is still filled with talent and great teams. Below is our free Summer Report, which includes scouting reports from Vegas, our Michigan player rankings for the classes of 2009-2012, and the top players in the country, class of 2009-2011, and Top 5 in the country for 2011.

ALL COACHES/FANS NEED TO SUBSCRIBE ASAP, TO RECEIVE THE SEPTEMBER REPORT, WHICH WILL INCLUDE MICHIGAN PLAYER RANKINGS BY POSITION, PLAYER RECRUITING NEWS, SLEEPER REPORT, AND PLAYER INTERVIEWS.

COLLEGE COACH SUBSCRIPTION- $300
FAN SUBSCRIPTION- $100

(All prices are for a year subscription)

(Send cashiers check, money order, or cash to ATTN: Lou Dawkins, Saginaw, MI, 48601, 3100 Webber St)

Las Vegas Scouting Reports

Colin Voss, 6’7 PF, 2010, East Grand Rapids/Grand Rapids Storm- Got it done in Vegas, as a rising junior averaged 8 pts per game against the best competition in the country. Vicious on the boards, and fairly athletic. Football may be his sport, but low-mid major D1 schools should take a look at him for hoops also.

Tommie McCune, 6’8 PF, 2011, Saginaw High/Michigan Mustangs- May be going from potential player to production player. Top 5 player in Michigan’s 2011 class. Went right at 2011 phenom 6’7 Chane Behanan of Ohio Basketball Club in Vegas, and may have won the matchup. High Major Player.

Trey Ziegler, 6’5 G, 2010, Mt. Pleseant High/Team Detroit- Was on a scoring rampage in Vegas. Best player in Michigan, and its not even close. I watched him give adidas powerhouse Team Philly 40 points and made it look easy. Elite High Major Player.

Brandan Kearney, 6’5 G, 2011, Detroit Southeastern/Michigan Mustangs- Because of his potential has to be ranked as Michigan’s best player right now in 2011. Can play both guard spots. Great shooter. Really good player right now, but has the potential to be one of the best Michigan players in a long time. Elite High Major talent.

Doug Anderson, 6’6 PF, 2009, Kalamazoo Central/Michigan Mustangs- If he had guard skills, with his athleticism and intensity on the court, would be a one and done player in college, but he doesn’t; so he’s mid-major. Never takes a play off, which is what I love about him. Pretty good player.

Duke Mondy, 6’3 SG, 2009, Grand Rapids Catholic Central/Michigan Mustangs- The Mustangs 17s go to player. Guarded Lance Stephenson, arguably the best player in the nation, admirably. Probably a mid-major plus guy. But may sneak up on people, and get a high major scholarship, If he plays during the high school season, how he played in Vegas. Good player.

Ben Simons, 6’7 ?, 2009, Cadillac/Grand Rapids Storm- What position is he? Is he quick enough to guard the wing in college most likely not. And that’s why I think he’s a mid major player. Shooting is his forte, but when his shot is off, he’s not the same player. Needs to improve his overall game, but I do like his potential.

Drew Valentine, 6’5 Wing, 2009, Lansing Sexton/Michigan Mustangs- Ultimate glue guy. Just flat out gets the job done! Does all the little things to help your team win. Mid majors should be scratching to get a commitment from him.

James Still, 6’8 PF, 2009, Detroit Community/Michigan Hurricanes- Has also played with Detroit Fire and The Family this year, but this has been his best performance to date on the circuit. Mid major plus guy. Long, bouncy. Plays hard at times. Moaps/whines occasionaly.

Alex Gauna, 6’8 PF, 2010, Eaton Rapids/Michigan Mustangs- Alex is a fundamentaly sound big man, with a super soft touch extending to the 3-point line. High majors should watch, because he most likely will end up on that level. Mid majors should be blowing his phone up. With added toughness/strength easy high major.

Percy Gibson, 6’8 PF, 2011, Detroit Southeastern/Michigan Mustangs- Beast! High major player. If he gets 6’10 its all over. Top 5 player in Michigan’s 2011 class. Left handed, when motivated can be very hard to guard. Him and B. Kearney will be a tough twosome in the years to come.

Michigan Player Rankings

2009
1. De’Sheante Riley, 7’0 C, Detroit Country Day-Potential to bigtime to ignore, no one can replace him as #1 now. I believe one day will be a NBA Player. Georgetown commit.
2. Jordan Morgan, 6’8 PF, U-D Jesuit- Gets results. Should be good in Michigan’s system.
3. Derrick Nix, 6’9 C, Detroit Pershing- Huge! Left handed, the better shape he’s in, the better player. Michigan State commit.
4. Donovan Kirk, 6’7 PF, Detroit Country Day- Loads of potential. Bouncy, tough on the glass. Plays hard. Miami-FL commit.
5. Kallante Miller, 6’5 Wing, Oak Park- I love him because he plays so hard. Long, athletic wing. Locks up on D. Mid Major plus player.
6. Dion Sims, 6’5 Basketball Player, Orchard Lake St. Mary’s- Some have forgotten about him, but I wont be surprised if he’s higher when I update these. Calling is football I believe.
7. James Still, 6’8 PF, Detroit Community- Long, bouncy. If he continues to get stronger, could be high major, some thinks he’s the best in Michigan.
8. Duke Mondy, 6’3 SG, Grand Rapids Catholic Central- If he puts it all together, could go high major because of his ability to shoot.

2010
1. Trey Ziegler, 6’5 G, Mt. Pleasant- Best player in Michigan, Top 10-15 Nationally, McDonalds All-American type talent.
2. Keith Appling, 6’2 G, Detroit Pershing- Scores like we breathe. Top 25-30 Nationally. May sneak into McDonalds game when it rolls around.
3. Ray McCallum, JR, 6’1 PG, Detroit Country Day- True PG. Plays hard. Top 25-30 Nationally, See K. Appling for McDonalds game.
4. Michael Talley, 5’8 PG, Melvindale Business and Tech- Has basketball in his blood. Despite size, still gets it done. Needs to get stronger to be definite high major.
5. Alex Gauna, 6’8 PF, Eaton Rapids- Best big in Michigan. Could be high major. Can really put points on the board.
6. Isaiah Sykes, 6’5 Wing, Detroit Finney- Killed it with the Michigan Hurricanes 17s this year. May be a high major player. Transferred to Finney from Detroit Chadsey.
7. Terrell Clinton, 6’7 G/Wing, Benton Harbor- Could be a special player. 6’7 and can play the point. High major potential.

2011
1. Brandan Kearney, 6’5 G, Detroit Southeastern- Has the potential to be the next great Detroit player.
2. LaDante Henton, 6’5 F, Lansing Eastern- May be the best right now, but needs to develop guard skills. First Team All-State as a freshman.
3. Tommie McCune, 6’8 F, Saginaw High- If he gets stronger, could end up the best.
4. Carlton Brundidge, 6’2 G, Southfield- Tough, strong, when he heats up from behind the arc, tough to stop.
5. Percy Gibson, 6’8 PF, Detroit Southeastern- Tough, strong. High major talent.
6. Amir Williams, 6’9 C, Detroit Country Day- High major. Gets to play against high major bigs everyday at practice. Shot blocker and rebounding extraordinaire.

2012
1. Jordan Hare, 6’6 Wing, Saginaw High- Has the potential to be the best player I have ever coached, and some of my players have ended up at Tennessee, Michigan St, and St. John’s.
2. Kevin Marshall, JR, 6’6 PF, Saginaw High- Also has the potential to be one of the better players I have coached. Size 18 shoe. May get 6’9.
3. Denzel Valentine, 6’4 Wing, Lansing Sexton- Minus the flash, and he’s more effective. Once his body matures, the better he gets.
4. Ray Lee, 6’3 SG, Dearborn Heights Robichaud- Long, very good scorer. Some think he’s the best in Michigan.
5. Cameron Fowler, 6’2 SG, U-D Jesuit- Some think he’s the best in Michigan. Plays on Detroit Fire with Ray. Good scorer.

National Player Rankings

2009
1. Derrick Favors, 6’9 PF, South Atlanta (GA)- Future Lottery Pick, could be the next Dwight Howard.
2. John Wall, 6’4 PG, Word of God (Raleigh, NC)- Super slick and quick. Can score, but also drop dimes. Most athletic PG since Derrick Rose. Lottery Pick.
3. Xavier Henry, 6’6 SG, Putnam City (Oklahoma City, OK)- Scores in bunches. Super strong. Sometimes should pass more. Lottery Pick.
4. Lance Stephenson, 6’5 Wing, Lincoln (Brooklyn, NY)- See Xavier Henry.
5. John Henson, 6’10 PF, Round Rock (TX) NORTH CAROLINA- Could end up being the best player out of this class, once he gets stronger. Lottery Pick.

2010
1. Josh Smith, 6’10 C, Kentwood (WA)- Huge! Soft hands, put on a dunking show against Pumps BTI in Vegas.
2. Brandon Knight, 6’3 PG, Pinecrest (Ft. Lauderdale, FL)- Loads of potential. Athletic, smart, unselfish, a coaches dream.
3. Jared Sullinger, 6’8 PF, Northland (Columbus, OH)- Most productive player in this class. If he was as athletic as Tristan Thompson would be #1 player.
4. Tristan Thompson, 6’9 PF, St. Benedicts (Newark, NJ)- If he puts it all together, will be #1. Some thinks he’s the best player now.
5. Harrison Barnes, 6’6 Wing, Ames (IA)- See Brandon Knight.

2011
1. Michael Gilchrist, 6’8 Basketball Player, St. Patrick’s (Elizabeth, NJ)- Can do everything, high energy player. Could reach LeBron James type hype.
2. Tony Wroten, 6’5 G, Garfield (Seattle, WA)- Unbelievable player for his age. May have been the best player in the 2008 adidas Super 64.
3. Laquinton Ross, 6’8 SF, Word of God (Raleigh, NC)- Could be the next T-Mac. Long, smooth stroke.
4. Chris Coleman, 6’10 C, Lee Academy (ME)- Under the radar, phenomenal player. Huge!
5. Mike Shaw, 6’8 F, DeLaSalle (Chicago, IL)- Fundamentally sound player, mainstay on Chicago power Mac Irvin Fire 17u team for 2 years already.