Hoop Dreams NYC

Diamond In The Rough Showcase Providing opportunities for the unknowns

October 24, 2020

Jeremiah “Spook” Green Got an opportunity to attend Mount St. Joseph academy in Vermont thanks to Diamond in the Rough showcase

The Covid 19 pandemic has preempted everything in sports including in-person recruiting and AAU Basketball. It’s something that has forced many to scramble looking for options while others became more creative and used technology to broadcast open runs and workouts via live stream at open places.

Queens Native Kaamil Dillard who has run the Diamond in the Rough showcase in his second year, decided to get creative and have his second annual showcase outside at Ajax Park in South Jamaica Queens on Sunday, August 9th.

Dillard came up with the idea of the showcase to honor his friend Darryl Adams an up-and-coming basketball prospect who was killed near South Jamaica Houses ( also known as 40 Projects) back in March of 2012. Adams who played his high school ball at Thomas Edison HS used basketball to move further away from the rough streets of South Jamaica Queens. Dillard felt that he needed to make a platform for unknown players in NYC to get a chance to show coaches that they can play at the next level. “A couple of friends should have made it out of the hood to play college ball, myself included so I felt it was right to create a platform for players not a lot of people know about,” says Dillard.

Dillard overlooking the action at the August 9th showcase

At the Showcase on that sunny Sunday afternoon, approximately 30 players from Queens and all over the tri-state area ranging from high school upperclassmen to JUCO transfers came through to play in front of a handful of coaches from JUCo’s, prep schools, and small College programs.

Most coaches watched the games on Instagram live, well known local scouts such as Nate Blue of real scout basketball and coach Tom “Tippy” McTernan made their appearance on that day to check out some players. There were also a few prep school and JUCO coaches in the area from Herkimer Community College and Prestige Prep just to name a few.

The extension of the NCAA dead period deferred many coaches from attending events but Bronx native Leshawn Hammett head coach of Penn-State Wilkes-Barre (DII-USCAA) took the opportunity to attend the event and shared his thoughts. “The showcase was a solid event and there was a lot of talent that was there. I come to this event every year and recruit players from this event”. Hammett also named talked about a few players who have impressed him. “Shamel Grant was the best PG there, Dian Wright-Ford is a strong athletic wing. Greg Thurman is one Juco transfer to watch, I also liked Alex McClain and Leon Nicholas they are two big aggressive guards”.

Coach Tom “Tippy “ McTernan of Big Apple Sports was in attendance

When it came to how the games went Hammett added “It was competitive and all games were dog fights.” Andrew Lara and Teequan Holley are two undersized bigs

Having the event at Ajax Park was the last-minute decision after the rims were taken down at the original location in South Ozone Park. Despite that Dillard and his staff still made things work. In the end, many of the participants have either gained offers or signed up with schools and will be heading there this fall.

Notable Participants who have received offers or committed to schools since the event on August 9th.

Shamel Grant’21 6-2 PG, Brooklyn, NY – Committed to Chaffey University (JUCO) in California

Michael Graham’21 6-6 PF, Queens NY On Point Academy ‘21 Offer from Penn State University-Wilkes Barre as well as other schools.

Jeremiah Green 6-0 guard, Queens, NY

Currently attending St. Joseph Academy in Vermont.

Dian Wright-Forde 6-4 shooting guard Upper Room Christian Academy ‘21

Offer from St. Francis Brooklyn

After the event on August 9th, Dillard explained in the interview that he received many calls from coaches asking him to do the event again. This inspired Dillard to make the event bigger and better. Over the past two months, Dillard and his staff have worked hard to get players to sign up to participate in their fall version of the Diamond in the Rough showcase that will be going on tomorrow at the Brooklyn Stuydome.

Coaches from over 30 colleges across all levels and 20-plus prep schools will be in attendance most of them will be watching virtually.

With some uncertainty of the High school basketball season starting, and the recruiting dead period being extended to January, events like Diamond in the Rough showcase will be beneficial for the athletes looking to get recruited.

As for the next steps, Dillard and his staff will look to get more athletes from across the tri-state area and other places to attend as well as put on more exposure events in the future.
TBT: Lonnie Walker Saves the day for the East Squad at the Jordan Brand Classic

May 21, 2020

BROOKLYN, NY – APRIL 14: West Team guard Lonnie Walker Jr. (15) drives to the basket during the first half of the 2017 Jordan Brand Classic National Boys Game between the West Team and the East Team on April 14, 2017 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire)

Article originally published 4/15/17

Lonnie Walker saves the day for the East Team.

Lonnie Walker scored 19 points and Grabbed MVP honors as the West Team surged past the East Team 124-116 at the 2017 Jordan Brand Classic.

It was a game that was heavily in favor of the East Team for most of the game until late in the 2nd half. The East Team was up 92-89 when Lonnie Walker scored seven straight points to give the East a 96-89 lead.

As walker continued to go on a tear, he often heard chants from the crowd of family members and fans who came all the way from Pennsylvania to see him play. All of them sat in section 31 to see him at play. The presence of his friends and family gave him a sense of being home. “That’s what Reading, Pennsylvania does. Even though we are three hours away, no matter how close we are, we still find ways to be a family.” Same with high school, every single game we played was almost sold out. Mainly we’re just reading fans. So seeing them, it just gave me a lot of energy. It made me so much more active, hyper, and I was motivated by them”. Walker said

When it came to the late run in the second half Walker was very strategic on how he was going to get points . “It’s just knowing my strengths are and knowing what the other team’s weaknesses are. Their defense started to slow down and my transition offensive game it doesn’t take a lot to make those easy buckets I made the game a lot smaller and a lot easier for myself and those points started to come like free candy whatever they gave I took it”. Lonnie’s high IQ showed in this game and it’s something that many Miami fans are going to like about him when he suits up for the hurricanes next season.

One of the top uncommitted seniors Brian Bowen was the Co-MVP as he scored 26 points to lead the East squad, and at that point, his pending college decision was the least of his worries. “During these all-star games, I haven’t been worried about this, just having fun overall. Now it’s a business, and it’s a business decision that I’ll be making this month. Plenary of schools, a lot have tried to get involved since I’m not committed. From winning a championship at the Dick’s nationals in Queens to winning the Co-MVP at the Jordan Brand Classic, NYC has been good to the 6-7 forward from Saginaw, Michigan. “It means a lot. New York is the Big Apple, the big city; it’s a great city. The atmosphere was alive, and I fed off that. I truly had a great time tonight”.
HDNYC and Referee Rant Presents: Pandemic Preempt W/ Stepinac’s Pat Massaroni.

May 18, 2020

The Covid-19 pandemic has put a halt to everything especially Basketball. Playoffs canceled, in- person recruiting cancelled AAU season in question. So how are some of your favorite teams and coaches dealing with this? Just about everyone is staying positive and adapting to this whole new reality.

A few weeks ago, Ralph Fornoles a referee, coach and creator of the Referee Rant podcast invited me to collaborate on a special podcast series called Pandemic Preempt: A series about the lost season in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

This first episode is episode 179 of the Referee Rant podcast and it features Stepinac Head Coach Pat Massaroni. Stepinac finished the season 18-9and was coming off of a huge win against division rival St. Raymon’s to win the NY-AA Archdiocesan championship on February 29th. With a highly anticipated matchup against crosstown rival Iona Prep on the horizon, the Covid-19 pandemic started to get worse as the quarterfinals site Fordham University was closed down due to a student being infected.

The Catholic league made adjustments moving the quarterfinals to Stepinac where St. Rays, Scanlan, Archbishop Molloy and St. Francis Prep played. During that time, the pandemic got worst and all over the NBA and NCAA and College basketball conferences started to shut down. From there it was a sure thing that the CHSAA playoffs weren’t going to continue there for putting an end to Stepinac’s historical season a season where it’s star player Mcdonald’s All-American and UNC commit R.J. Davis garnered tons of accolades including CHSAA player of the year, New York’s Mr. Basketball, Gatorade NY player od the year and much more. The Crusaders finished the season with an 18-9 record and was ranked as one of the top 40 schools in the nation.

Ralph Fornoles and myself talked to Massaroni on hosting the quarterfinals, the effect that the pandemic had on his season, his coaching journey and much more.

Check out the podcast link Here

https://refereerant.com/episode-179-the-rant-pat-massaroni/
Big East Press: There’s no Tougher Team In The Big East than The Pirates

January 20, 2020

Photo Credit: Vincent Carchietta -USA Today Sports

You always learn how great a team is in college basketball when you witness how they handle adversity and bounce back on the road.
If you have been watching the Seton Hall Pirates lately, then you know this team is for real. If not then there’s a chance that you are late to the party

The Pirates were down 43-30 at the half to St. John’s, then they outscored them 23-11 to start the second half to cut the deficit to one. From there, the Pirates battled with the Red Storm back and forth until they were able to pull away late in the game due to their great free throw shooting and late-game heroics by Seniors Myles Powell and Quincy McKnight to seal the 82-79 victory. “Yesterday’s comeback win was a true testament to how experienced this Seton Hall team is. “ When you have more experience, it makes a difference. These guys know, and they have more confidence, and they understand what we are doing,” Says Head coach Kevin Willard.

As Redshirt Junior Center Romaro Gill puts it knowing their mistakes and making adjustments was vital. “I think we went into the locker room and regrouped. We know we made mistakes in the first half, and we came back with a different mindset”. Gill was a force in the paint for Seton Hall as he scored 14 points and grabbed 13 rebounds and blocked 16 shots in yesterday’s win.

Yesterday’s win was Seton Hall’s eighth in a row, and their fourth road win in six conference games. What makes yesterday’s win more special is that Myles Powell reached 2,000 career points he finished with 29 points and now has 2,022 career points, more importantly, he did it at MSG which as he explained is a second home for him and the Pirates “ When we come into this building it’s special. We feel this is our second home; if you know the Pirates, you know we love coming to the Garden, and we are looking forward to coming back into the tournament”.

Myles Powell is all smiles after scoring a clutch bucket against St. John’s.
Photo Credit: Sarah Stier – Associated Press

Conference play brings out the best in a team, and for Seton Hall, after finishing their toughest stretch in conference play without a loss is impressive as Quincy McKnight points out their toughness is what gets them through. “We are just showing everyone how tough we are. We were down ten at Hinkle (Butler), and we came back, down 13 today at the half and came back again. “We are just showing everyone that we are going to fight every game. We have a hard nose coach in Kevin Willard, who always pushes us to keep being better. Everyone is playing their role right now, and that’s what makes us so good right now. Nobody is forcing the issue. Everybody is just doing what they do”.

Seton Hall is currently ranked 18th in the nation with a chance to make a massive jump in tomorrow’s rankings. They also have a three-game road stretch where they have an opportunity to reach the halfway point of Big East play undefeated. If there is any team that you want to bet on, the Pirates are that team and their toughness and resiliency shows.
Big East Press: St. Johns Fall to Pirates but show much progress.

January 19, 2020

Sophomore forward Josh Roberts who scored a career high 16 points with a big block against Seton Hall’s Jared Rhoden yesterday. Photo Credit: Nick Bello- St. John’s Athletics

The St. Johns Red Storm dropped their 2nd straight conference game this week to crosstown rival Seton Hall 82-79, but if you are the type of person with a “glass half full” perspective you will notice that this is a game the Johnnies can build off on.

Clearly Seton Hall showed why they are the better team this afternoon, but there’s no denying some of the progression from the Red Storm “Anyone watching knows we saw a great ball game. Two teams showed up, obviously neighboring teams. Congratulations to their guys who made plays at the right time. They had the ability to knock free throws down. They made some big free throws down the stretch so you have to give them credit. But as I told our guys I was proud of the effort and I’m not into moral victories we lost the game at home, that’s got to hurt but at the same time I thought our guys came out and played against a very, very good opponent, Seton hall and gave ourselves a chance.” A confident Mike Anderson says to the press following the loss.

From LJ Figueroa’s career high seven steals , to a career high 16 points from Josh Roberts and a much improved shooting performance from Mustapha Heron along with a strong defensive performance. These are some things that were at one time major concerns that were addressed in this game. As Head coach Mike Anderson points out, “I thought of all of the games , we’ve had some tough games… I’m proud that they continued to fight, and actually I thought we got better. We haven’t been scoring. Our defense has been pretty good and we hadn’t been scoring, but I thought we kind of amped it up. I thought guys played for one another, they trusted one another. I saw Mustapha Heron come out and they looked More relaxed. Josh Roberts had one of his better games. What that says is we played as a team. And with that being said, that gave us a chance.

Despite this team’s record through the past six games, you can tell from today’s game that the Red Storm are correcting their flaws game by game. “We’re cleaning up some things going down the stretch and that’s where the inexperienced versus experienced I keep saying that, but you can see the guys that make plays for them. I like the way this team responds to tough losses.” Says coach Anderson.

LJ Figueroa Had a career high seven steals to go along with 16 points and 5 assists on 53% shooting yesterday afternoon. Photo Credit: Nick Bello- St. John’s Athletics

St. John’s came out with a sense of urgency against the preseason favorite to win the Big East conference holding their best player Myles Powell to 6 points in the first half and holding on to a 13 point lead at the half due to their defense and ability to make shots. something they weren’t able to do in the past couple of games. In the Second half the Priates made their comeback known by outscoring the Red Storm 23-11 and cutting their once 13 point lead down to one. At that point you got to say to yourself that this is where St. Johns may revert to old habits but they didn’t. The Red Storm were able to keep their lead alive at times as well as gain back the lead late in the game something they couldn’t do in their previous losses.

Catch Mike Anderson addresses the media following the loss to Seton Hall

Free throws (60 % for the game) might have doomed them down the stretch but it’s worth knowing if the Red Storm had shot the ball better from the line then we may have been talking about how the Johnnies took down the best team in the league and No. 18th team in the country, and how this Red Storm squad makes MSG a tougher place for opponents to get a win rather than the Knicks.

For now we the Red Storm are 1-5 with a lot of basketball left in conference play. But if the positives from today’s game become the norm and they improve from the little things such as free throws by March, things could be much different for this team.
Seton Hall Pirates Are Embracing The Grind

December 31, 2019

Seton Hall Pirates

Conference play has finally arrived and the Seton Hall Pirates are ready to prove why they are the preseason favorite to win the league:

The Pirates started the season hot, dominating their weaker opponents to start the non-conference season, but when ever they faced a higher ranked opponent they continuously fought hard and proved that they are just as good but ended up falling short. The Pirates had the 2nd toughest non conference schedule according to KenPom so it comes as no surprise that the Pirates became a much stronger team throughout non-Conference play.

In most of their losses, the Pirates either struggled to maintain a lead, or they lost players early in the game due to injury, which has affected them, but they have found a way to close non-conference play strong. New players emerged, and the Pirates found new ways to win games.

On December 19th, the Pirates bounced back from an embarrassing loss to Rutgers by beating Then No.7 ranked Maryland 52-48. In that game, the Pirates held the terrapins a squad who regularly averages 75 points per game to a season-low 48 points. What makes the win more impressive is that the Pirates did it without Sandro Mamukelashvili and their leading scorer Myles Powell. Both Powell and Mamukelashvili combine for 32 points per game without that 32 points, and the Pirates used their defense and ability to attack the rim to close out games.

The same could be said for their final non-conference win against Prarie View A&M. On December 22nd, we got our first look at the Pirates in person. The Pirates struggled shooting the ball for most of the game, but thanks to a game-high 25 points from Quincy McKnight and 12 points and seven assists from Harlem native Anthony Nelson the Pirates were able to dominate Prarie View in the second half on their way to a 20+ point win. Freshman Tyrese Samuel added a huge boost off the bench with 12 points.

For the senior McKnight, a guard who will be known as their best defender during his tenure as a pirate, being more of a force on offense at times is critical. “ My role was always defense, but when Myles and Sandro went down, I had to step up on the offensive end, and that’s what I have been doing.” When Myles Powell comes back, it’s a sure thing that McKnight will go back to shutting down the opponent’s best guard, but for now, we also know that McKnight could be a force on offense when he gets the opportunity to do so.

Senior Quincy McKnight stepped up big in the blowout win over Prairie View A&M
Photo Credit: SHU Athletics

Whether it was watching them on TV or in person, the non-conference part of the season showed the growth of this Seton Hall team. In the past, Seton Hall night has struggled without their top scorers, but with Kevin Willard’s ability to make adjustments with getting individual players to step up, the Pirates can survive anything that comes towards them. With how strong the Big East is this year there will be plenty of opportunities for the Pirates to get even more big wins.

This conference season is going to be fun.
Tri-State Power 25 Season Preview: Thomas Jefferson Orange Wave.

November 25, 2019

Photo Credit: Hector Martinez / Moving Pictures

2018-19 season: 20-8 regular-season record, PSAL City finalist.

Players to Watch: Jaquan Carlos, Diovion Middleton, Kevin Tabb, Ramsey King.

Never forget about the Orange Wave…

With tons of buzz surrounding South Shore and Brooklyn Collegiate, there is one team many should still keep their eyes on and that team is the Thomas Jefferson Orange Wave.

Still fueled by falling short to South Shore in last year’s city championship, the Orange Wave enter the 2019-20 season on a mission to head back to the Garden. I had the chance to see Jefferson go up against Monsignor Scanlan at the Preview. The Orange Wave played extremely well against Scanlan winning 61-59. Carlos went off for 30 points in that game

With the departure of Kareem Welch who has graduated, many may have wondered who will provide additional scoring for the Orange Wave look no further than Kevin Tabb. The 5-10 senior guard scored 21 points in that game vs Scanlan on October 13th. The Orange wave has a plethora of guards who can score from the perimeter on defense they press their opponents as well as trap. One thing is for sure is that head coach Lawrence “Bud” Pollard and his staff always has his team ready.

Jefferson started the regular season early yesterday in a non-league game against Curtis High School in their annual Hersh Tip-off Classic. According to Coach “Tippy” McTernan of Big Apple Sports, In that game, Jefferson defeated Curtis 92-79. Carlos, Tabb and junior guard Ramsey King combined for 78 of Jefferson’s 92 points. The first game shows that Jefferson has lots of firepower on offense. Jefferson’s latest addition is Diovion Middleton a 6-4 freshman who has been named one of the top freshmen in the city.

Schedule Breakdown

The Orange Wave has a jam-packed schedule that includes a tough Brooklyn AA league schedule along with a trip to Las Vegas for the Tarkanian Classic. Here are some games that we picked as the top games to watch

November 26th @ Brooklyn Collegiate

What better way to start the season than a big matchup against a reloaded Brooklyn Collegiate team. The last time these two teams played was the PSAL final four where Jefferson won 81-61. The Orange wave will be making the short trip to nearby Brownsville and the game will be a goodie. A key matchup will be between Jaquan Carlos and BC’s Majesty Johnson.

December 10th vs South Shore

The Orange wave will be hosting South Shore in a rematch of the PSAL City championship. This game will be a sellout for sure. The Orange wave will have revenge on their minds in this game.

December 14th at LuHi

Coach Bud Pollard isn’t afraid to challenge his team early in the season. The Orange wave has a big task going up against LuHi in Long Island on December 14th. This game will prepare Jefferson for their trip to Las Vegas for the Tarkanian Classic

December 17th -23rd Tarkanian Classic in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Orange Wave are no strangers to national holiday tournaments. In 2015 the Orange wave made a run in the City of Palms tournament where they had the chance to go up against a Chino Hills Squad that featured all three of the Ball brothers. Jefferson alum Shamorie Ponds went off for 40 points in that game but the Orange wave lost by one point. Fast forward to this year, the Orange wave will be playing in a tournament that features national powerhouses such as Mater Dei, Bishop Gorman, Neumann-Goretti (Philadelphia) and more. The Orange Wave will face California powerhouse Fairfax HS in the first round on December 18th.

January 11th vs Iona Prep

Orange Wave will make their return to the Empire invitational on January 11th where they will face a young Iona prep in a CHSAA vs Catholic league battle. This game will be very competitive and fun to watch as both teams both play fast-paced and have great guard play.

January 16th at South Shore

The season finale between these two teams in Canarsie will be a classic. If you know the history between these two teams, then you know this game will be big. Rivalry games in the Brooklyn AA division are must-see tv.

Outlook

There’s no question that Jefferson will be in the conversation as potential contenders for the city title. We all know what Jaquan Carlos is going to bring to the table chances are that Carlos could possibly lead the city in scoring. Kevin Tabb is going to step up even more as a senior. Expect Jefferson to finish in the top three in the Brooklyn AA and grab a high seed in the city playoffs.
Tri-State Power 25 Season Preview: Brooklyn Collegiate Lions

November 17, 2019

2018-19 season: 19-9 record, reached PSAL City Semifinals

Players to Watch: Majesty Johnson, Amahrie Simpkins, Tahron Allen, Jaylin Anderson

Key additions: Tahron Allen, Jahmere Tripp, Kelechi Okworogwo, Jalen Lyn

Tons of Buzz surrounding the Brooklyn Collegiate Lions going into the 2019-20 basketball season. Just months after reaching the PSAL AA final four for the first time in the school’s history, the Lions have added new players to make them one of the deepest teams in the city. The Lions are recognized by Ball is Life as one of the top 20 teams in the Northeast.

One of the biggest additions to this team is Tahron Allen a 6-4 junior wing who transferred to BC from CHSAA powerhouse St. Raymond’s. Allen gives the Lions another key player on offense that slash and shoot from the perimeter. Allen would make an immediate impact on the Lions on offense as he has transitioned from the CHSAA to the PSAL Brooklyn AA.

Majesty Johnson is one of the top PG’S in the city and he is looking to prove that to those who disagree. At 5-9, the Harlem native is a true floor general who is quick, a pest on defense and can shoot from the perimeter. With the number of offensive weapons added to this Brooklyn Collegiate team, there’s no question that Johnson can become the assist leader in NYC just like alum Glen Anderson who is now in his first season at Maryland-Eastern Shore.

Amahrie Simpkins a 6-4 guard can be tough to defend for opponents this season with his athleticism and ability to play inside and outside. Simpkins proved how much of an impact he can make when he exploded for 33 points against Cardinal Hayes at the Tru Ballaz Invitational championship. In that game, Simpkins exploded for 21 points in the third quarter. Unfortunately, BC lost the game, but from there you know for sure that Simpkins is a player that makes the lions a much more dangerous team.

Newcomers Jahmere Tripp, Jalen Lyn, Kelechi Okworogwo are a few players who can look to make an impact on this Brooklyn Collegiate squad.

Schedule Breakdown

Along with a tough and challenging Brooklyn AA schedule, the Lions have a non-conference schedule that includes a trip to Massachusetts along with a huge matchup with Cardinal Hayes on February 1st. Here are our Key games to watch this season.

November 26th vs Thomas Jefferson

The Lions will be facing a very tough Thomas Jefferson team at home to start the season. Jefferson is the same team that dominated the Lions in last year’s final four. The matchup between Majesty Johnson and Jefferson’s Jaquan Carlos will be must-see TV.

December 12th vs South Shore

The Lions aren’t the only Brooklyn AA team that has reloaded. The defending PSAL City champions South Shore Vikings have added a lot of new pieces as well. This game will be a huge test for the Lions as they go up against a team that features Nate Tabor, Kipplyn Richvine, Zaire Wells, and Jefferson transfer Marcus Burnett. BC hasn’t been able to beat South Shore the past few seasons but this year they may be more prepared to face them.

December 22nd vs Wings Academy at the City Legendz Classic.

A Bronx AA vs Brooklyn AA game is always entertaining and December 22nd the Lions will go up against Wings Academy. Last year the Lions dominated Wings 72-48 at the South Shore MLK Classic. This years game could be different as Wings added a few players themselves.

January 5th vs WHEELS Academy @ the Real Scout /Big Apple New Years Jamboree.

The Lions start off 2020 with a big matchup against Manhattan powerhouse Wheels Academy.

January 25th vs Gill St. Bernard

In order to prepare for the postseason, a trip across the bridge to Jersey is needed. The Lions will be facing a tough Gill St. Bernard Team at the Hearts 2 Hands tournament at Kean University.

Outlook

The Lions may have one of the deepest teams in the city where they have about five players who can average up to 15 points per game, out of those five about three of them can score 25 plus in a game if needed. When one player is out many will step up and fill the void.

One question about the Lions is their defense. From what we have seen in the preseason they have squandered leads against tough competition. It’s possible that the Lions have found ways to improve that since the season started with their practices. We definitely see a BC team that will finish at the top three of the Brooklyn AA division and could possibly make a run at Jefferson and South Shore for the Brooklyn Borough championship. No question with the weapons and depth that they have this is very possible. Don’t be surprised if BC is in the conversation for a run to the Garden.
Tri-State Power 25 Season Preview: St. Raymond’s Ravens

November 8, 2019

2018-19 season: 20-7 Record, CHSAA Quarterfinalist

Key players to Watch: Malachi Smith, Luis Kortright, Gary Grant

St. Raymond’s Ravens have been preparing all summer to build off an impressive 2018-19 campaign. From early morning workouts to performing well in summer tournaments and preseason events, the Ravens have their eyes on making a deep post season run.

Many of their top returning players have improved their stock when it comes to recruiting.

One of the biggest risers on the team was Malachi Smith the junior who picked up tons of offers and interest after some decent showings at the CHSAA team camp, NCAA Basketball Academy. Smith also put the city on notice after his performance throughout various summer leagues throughout the five boroughs.

From earning Co-MVP honors of Dyckman’s High School division, to leading Team Dyckman to Nike’s NY vs NY championship. Malachi Smith continues to solidify himself as one of the top guards in the nation.

Junior guard Malachi Smith is ready to take his game to the next level Photo Credit: Straight Elite

The 6-1 guard added offers from Quinnipiac, St. Peter’s, Dayton and Fairfield to go along with his current offers from UMass and Manhattan. Smith’s stellar play has also caught the attention of many high major schools such as Rutgers, Syracuse, Texas Tech, Oklahoma State and more as these schools have shown a lot of interest. Penn State out of the Big Ten has been actively recruiting Smitb as well.

Smith’s offensive game continues to grow as he has shown to shoot the ball much better from the time we have seen him in the summer to the preseason. Smith’s progression and maturity will pay off huge for the Ravens this season as the Bronx native will look to take his game to another level.

Seniors Luis Kortright and Gary Grant will have big seasons for the Ravens. Coming off of where both made the third and first team All-CHSAA respectively, the senior duo will be key to this ravens squad.

Grant a 6-6 guard / forward was one of the top five scorers in the city last season. With his ability to score from the perimeter as well as slash to the rim. Grant definitely has an advantage over many players his size.

Luis Kortright a bouncy and athletic 6-3 guard will look to build off an impressive senior year. Kortright’s scoring ability and athleticism gives the Ravens extra fire power on offense.

The Ravens have been preparing well for this season by participating in Various preseason tournaments such as the Playaz Fall Ball invitational in New Jersey, Tru Ballaz invitational and the Test The Waters showcase in their home gym. We got a chance to see the Ravens on October 14th when they blew past Canarsie HS. From that game, we seen a squad that prides themselves on trap defense and forcing turnovers. On offense, the ravens have shown that they can flourish in transition.

In addition to the Ravens core group, there are some additions that could also contribute to this ravens squad. These key additions include 6-6 sophomore forward Kedar Davis, guards Eli Castillo and freshman forward Jireej Cole. Junior Dallis Dillard and senior guard Reggie Hudson are other contributors on this St. Rays team that more people should know more about.

Schedule Breakdown

The Ravens 2019-20 season includes many non-conference stops against some of the top teams in the tri-State area and in the nation along with some Key league games. All games are good but here are a few games that are a must watch this season.

December 6th vs Cardinal Hayes

The first month of the season for the Ravens will be big and it will start with a big Friday night home game vs Cardinal Hayes a team that dominated them in last years Archdiocesean championship.

December 15th vs Archbishop Stepinac at the PSA Cardinals Prep Showcase.

The Ravens have yet another test on December 15th as they will go up against conference foe and Nationally ranked Archbishop Stepinac. Major opportunity for St. Raymond’s as they will go up against UNC commit RJ Davis and Duke Commit Adrian Griffin jr.

December 27-29th Slam Dunk to the Beach invitational in Lewes, DE

The Ravens make their return to this tournament since playing in it during the 2016-17 season. It all starts when The Ravens face Cape Henelopen HS on December 27th. On December 29th The Ravens will face New Jersey Power Gill St. Bernard.

January 1st vs Bergen Catholic at the Playaz New Years Jumpoff

The Ravens will kick off 2020 with another Matchup against Jersey powerhouse In Bergen Catholic. This non-league game will be big for the Ravens as they will go up against a team that features Sophomore Point guard Will Richardson and Notre Dame commit Matt Zona.

January 4th vs Long Island Lutheran

The Ravens vs defending state federation champion LuHi is has a very intriguing matchup at the PG position between Malachi Smith and Illinois commit Andre Curbelo.

January 18th at Monsignor Scanlan

One of two meetings between two schools that are about 15 minutes away from each other. It’s always a big game when Rays and Scanlan go up against each other

February 11th vs Xaverian

If you seen Shawn Fulcher and Malachi Smith play over the summer then you know that this game will be one of the best of the season. This game has potential to be a future playoff matchup as well.

Outlook

This St. Raymond’s squad returns about the majority of their team from last season, and they have the potential to make a deep run in the post season.

Some summer and preseason highlights of the St. Raymond’s Ravens
Tri State Power 25 Season Preview: Xaverian Clippers

November 6, 2019

2018-19 season: 15-8 record, reached CHSAA city quarterfinals.

Key players to Watch: Shawn Fulcher, Nick Folk, Billy Reyes, and Jaden Peña

X Factor: Elijah Hardison

“Outwork and Outplay everybody. These are the words that describe the Xaverian Clippers who are one of the most intriguing teams in the CHSAA this upcoming season. The clippers have been impressive throughout the preseason beating some of the top programs in the city. The clippers display a lot of grit and toughness that make them a tough team to beat.

Fulcher and Folk Running the Show

The clippers may have one of the top backcourts in the city in Shawn Fulcher and Nick Folk both players are quick, can shoot and get their teammates involved. Xaverian can still win games when one of the two isn’t on the floor. The clippers showed that when they played Boys and Girls at the 1st annual test the waters showcase at St. Raymond’s High School on October 14th. Shawn Fulcher was inactive that day due to injury but Nick Folk Held it down for the Clippers scoring 18 points in the 74-68 win over Boys and Girls.

The X Factor Elijah Hardison

Elijah Hardison May be one of the fastest rising prospects in the five boroughs. Just a year ago the 6-8 Hardison was playing behind 6-10 big man Michael Graham(committed to ELON) and held a D2 offer from Gannon University. Fast forward to this year Graham has been impressive with his play so impressive he has picked up his first Division 1 offer offer from St. Francis (Brooklyn). Hardison has a 7-foot wingspan can run the floor and score inside with ease. Hardison has also shown an ability to hit jumpers from mid range.

Another senior on this Xaverian team is billy Reyes. The 6-0 sharp shooter plays hard and gives the clippers an extra boost on both ends of the floor. Look for Reyes to raise the bar even higher as he will look to help the clippers make a deeper run in the playoffs.

Junior guard/forward Jaden Peña at 6-5 is up for a big season this year with the Clippers. Given his size he can impact the game in many ways.

Schedule Breakdown

The Clippers Schedule includes some non league tournaments in Washington DC and Colorado. Some of their best games will be during CHSAA play

December 6-8 Good Counsel Tournament In Maryland.

The clippers play in this prestigious event every season against some of the top catholic teams from the DC/Maryland/Virginia area.

December 15th Xaverian vs Bishop Loughlin

A rematch of last years Brooklyn-Queens Diocesean Championship.

December 19-21 Power 2 Play Classic in Windsor, Colorado.

January 5th vs Monsignor Scanlan

The Clippers have a big matchup at home against Dayton commit Koby Brea, Joe Munden and the Monsignor Scanlan Crusaders.

January 17th Vs Cardinal Hayes

The last time the Clippers faced Hayes was at the Great 8 championship where they beat them 61-60. This game will be an exciting matchup for many to see.

January 26th vs Archbishop Stepinac

This game will be a huge test for the Clippers as they go up against RJ Davis, Adrian Griffin Jr. and the Archbishop Stepinac Crusaders. The clippers will look to avenge last years loss in the quarterfinals.

February 11th At St. Raymond’s

This might be one of the top games of the 2019-20 season due to the matchup in the backcourt between two of the top juniors in the area. Shawn Fulcher and Malachi Smith.

Outlook

The Xaverian clippers have been maturing year after year, and this year might be the year they go further than the quarterfinals in the CHSAA intersectional playoffs. The Clippers right now might be the favorite to win the Brooklyn-Queens Diocesan Championship.

15-8 record, reached CHSAA city quarterfinals.

Key players to Watch: Shawn Fulcher, Nick Folk, Billy Reyes, and Jaden Peña

X Factor: Elijah Hardison

“Outwork and Outplay everybody. These are the words that describe the Xaverian Clippers who are one of the most intriguing teams in the CHSAA this upcoming season. The clippers have been impressive throughout the preseason beating some of the top programs in the city. The clippers display a lot of grit and toughness that make them a tough team to beat.

Fulcher and Folk Running the Show

The clippers may have one of the top backcourts in the city in Shawn Fulcher and Nick Folk both players are quick, can shoot and get their teammates involved. Xaverian can still win games when one of the two isn’t on the floor. The clippers showed that when they played Boys and Girls at the 1st annual test the waters showcase at St. Raymond’s High School on October 14th. Shawn Fulcher was inactive that day due to injury but Nick Folk Held it down for the Clippers scoring 18 points in the 74-68 win over Boys and Girls.

The X Factor Elijah Hardison

Elijah Hardison May be one of the fastest rising prospects in the five boroughs. Just a year ago the 6-8 Hardison was playing behind 6-10 big man Michael Graham(committed to ELON) and held a D2 offer from Gannon University. Fast forward to this year Graham has been impressive with his play so impressive he has picked up his first Division 1 offer offer from St. Francis (Brooklyn). Hardison has a 7-foot wingspan can run the floor and score inside with ease. Hardison has also shown an ability to hit jumpers from mid range.

Elijah Hardison at the Great 8 invitational

Another senior on this Xaverian team is billy Reyes. The 6-0 sharp shooter plays hard and gives the clippers an extra boost on both ends of the floor. Look for Reyes to raise the bar even higher as he will look to help the clippers make a deeper run in the playoffs.

Junior guard/forward Jaden Peña at 6-5 is up for a big season this year with the Clippers. Given his size he can impact the game in many ways.

Schedule Breakdown

The Clippers Schedule includes some non league tournaments in Washington DC and Colorado. Some of their best games will be during CHSAA play

December 6-8 Xaverian Classic In Maryland.

The clippers play in this prestigious event every season against some of the top catholic teams from the DC/Maryland/Virginia area. Xaverian will look to repeat as Xaverian Classic Champs this year.

December 15th Xaverian vs Bishop Loughlin

A rematch of last years Brooklyn-Queens Diocesean Championship.

December 19-21 Power 2 Play Classic in Windsor, Colorado.

January 5th vs Monsignor Scanlan

The Clippers have a big matchup at home against Dayton commit Koby Brea, Joe Munden and the Monsignor Scanlan Crusaders.

January 17th Vs Cardinal Hayes

The last time the Clippers faced Hayes was at the Great 8 championship where they beat them 61-60. This game will be an exciting matchup for many to see.

January 26th vs Archbishop Stepinac

This game will be a huge test for the Clippers as they go up against RJ Davis, Adrian Griffin Jr. and the Archbishop Stepinac Crusaders. The clippers will look to avenge last years loss in the quarterfinals.

February 11th At St. Raymond’s

Outlook

This might be one of the top games of the 2019-20 season due to the matchup in the backcourt between two of the top juniors in the area. Shawn Fulcher and Malachi Smith.

The Xaverian clippers have been maturing year after year, and this year might be the year they go further than the quarterfinals in the CHSAA intersectional playoffs. The Clippers right now might be the favorite to win the Brooklyn-Queens Diocesan Championship.

Xaverian Vs Boys and Girls preseason scrimmage from Test The Waters Showcase

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