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Monday, December 14
WEEK OF DEC 13th - 19th!
MONDAY, DEC 14th:
So much news from around the area, I don't know where to start.
First of all, I know many of you guys aren't Arizona Cardinal fans. Therefore, be sure to catch my weekly segment tonight (8pm) on "High School Sports Live" which airs on Houston's Ch. 55. Actually, I normally hit the screen during the last half hour of the show.
The late Kwasi Johnson is up above - smiling ear to ear right about now. Northshore HS star Jacoby Harrison 6'6 pf 2011 has committed to Hartford. This is huge news for both sides. Harrison established himself as an inside force this past summer while starring with the Houston Suns Elite 2011 (coached by Johnson, his uncle who was shot and killed earlier this Fall). Harrison leads Northshore in ppg and rpg thru this season. Credit assistant coach Chris Gerlufsen for closing this deal before all of the regional colleges came offering.
Recaps and results from many of the area's tournaments from this past weekends have been posted on the Home Page for your viewing pleasure. Also, I've added the schedule to the HISD Tourney, which tips off Friday afternoon. The event will continue Saturday and conclude on Monday. As you know, Yates HS will not be paticipating in the HISD event. Instead, the Lions will be flying to Honolulu, HI and are very much looking forward to taking their show on the road. Thru six games, Yates leads the nation with 133.3ppg. The Texas all time record was set in 1992-93 by Hardin Jefferson HS (109.4ppg). That record setting team maxed out with 166pts (94 in the first half) of a win against arch rival Hardin HS. They were coached by the current head of the UIL (Charles Breithaupt), and saw their season end prematurely after getting upset in the Regionals by Groesbeck HS.
Did you guys know that current Kountze head coach Duane Joubert and ex St Thomas head coach and current Milby HS assistant coach Neil Laminack were members of that HJ squad, and have no problem reminding anyone within earshot about it either. Also in 1992, Morton Ranch head coach Carey Palmer and current HJ head coach Todd Sutherland were assistant coaches at HJ as well.
According to the National HS Federation, the most points averaged in a season was Hobbs HS (NM) who put up a miraculous 114.6ppg exactly forty years ago (1969-70 season).
There are a handful of games around the area tonight. I'm sure you guys have felt a bit short of pros since I haven't posted any predictions during the past two weeks. Well, we will bring them back and allow the debates to begin. Here you go...
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MONDAY'S RESULTS
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RCS PREDICTION
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Mayde Creek 48 Atascocita 55 (OT)
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Atascocita by 7
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Oak Ridge 67 Cy Ridge 56
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Oak Ridge by 10
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Reagan 67 Clear Springs 69 (OT)
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Clear Springs by 5
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Clear Creek @ Dobie
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Clear Creek by 2
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Dickinson 69 LaMarque 79
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LaMarque by 6
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Pasadena Mem @ Cinco Ranch
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Cinco by 3
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North Forest 55 LaPorte 68
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LaPorte by 16
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WOW!
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Sam Houston 40 Sterling 73
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Sam Houston by 11
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OTHER NEWS!
The grapevine tells me that DeCarlos Frank is set to make his senior debut with Beaumont Ozen as soon as this Friday. Frank was a 1st Team All Greater Houston selection last year, and saw his stock take a spike downward after leveling out this past summer with the Rashard Lewis club team. As a casualty of NPNP, Frank missed the first 14 games for Ozen, and the team has exactly 14 games remaining on their regular season schedule.
Cleveland HS and Hardin Jefferson HS made bold statements this past weekend in regards to their quest to reign surpreme in the area's 3A picture. Cleveland beat Stafford comfortably on the road (81-66). Four players Cedric Reed, Trey Richardson, Jaraud Ross, and Drew Walker) scored 12pts each for the Indians. On the flipside, Colorado State recruit Maurice Wiltz (20pts), Brian Hamilton (15pts), and Sean Collins (12pts) were the leaders for Stafford.
I was extremely impressed with sophomore Cameron Ridley 6'9 c (Bush HS 2012) after his triple double 27p / 11r/ 10b in the championship game against Dulles HS. If I were his parents, this particular game was definitely one to obtain a box of DVDs and ship to every single BCS school in the country. I'm dead serious on that one, because this kid flat out dominated and regulated the post. On a related note, every since the adjustment was made to insert him into the starting lineup, Ridley is one of the main reasons Bush HS is in a smooth groove at this point in the season.
The final score of the weekend is not Yates 131-62 win over the Austalian HS team, nor is it their 128-83 win over Westside HS. Instead, I have to give the nod to Episcopal HS who smashed Yes College Prep (62-9). Freshman Ken Williams Jr led the way with 15pts. I don't care where and who you are - if you are a team of male high school student athletes and can not muster 10pts in a game... you know what? I'm just gonna leave that one alone.
Bryan HS split a pair of games in Dallas. They beat Arlington Grace Prep (80-66) and dropped a (46-57) decision to Prestonwood. Arlington Grace Prep was without star pg Jamal Branch. Sophomore pg J'Mychal Reese scored 30pts in the two games while teammate Terrance Tucker produced 36pts.
Speaking of Prestonwood, they will be in action two weeks from now when the Holiday Xplosion takes place at the Campbell Center. If you have a copy of "Da Magazine", the eye catching red back cover has the schedule of the event printed right there for easy access.
Houston Rocket Aaron Brooks will be at Yates HS this afternoon (1:30-3pm) to help promote a new sneaker which the students will help design themselves. The winning selection will be manufactured by Nike and ready for Yates to wear when district play kicks off in January.
Tomorrow, I will release the updated list of the area's TOP 12 teams (and you know Yes College Prep is not on that list)! Of course #1 is pretty much a free space in bingo, but the rest of the list should provide plenty for you guys to gossip about over the next week or so.
Saturday, December 12
WEEK OF DEC 6th - 12th!
SATURDAY, DEC 12th
YATES varsity will NOT be playing Riverside (LA) this evening! The JV team will be playing instead. (see bold print below for reasoning).
After learning DJ Griggs was leading the state's tenth graders with 24ppg, I had to get out and support this young man with my presence. What better way to do it than against CE King (a team I hadn't seen this season) during the Cy Fair ISD consolation division held at Langham Creek HS. Not only did CE King crush Brazosport (89-71), they contained Griggs to a humanly 20pts in the process. In other words, 20pts for a soph is always impressive, but in the case of Griggs - the bar of expectancy is raised to elite standards. And since he is a seasoned point guard, wins and losses are dependent on the capacity of his decision making. Backcourt mate Dajon King scored a game high 26pts in the loss. The difference maker last night was CE King's senior wing Benny Baptiste 6'2 (25pts), a strong linebacker built lefty who had his A game on full blast. The coach from Lehigh was in attendance (checking out Mackey McKnight) and he flipped through the program to check the vitals on Batiste after the kid converted a spinning left handed move during the 3rd quarter.
Also last night, I witnessed and identified one of the area's top sleeper teams. Here's a hint - they've beaten Tomball, Memorial, Westfield, Jones, and Alief Taylor (all by double digits). With a minute to go, Cy Fair HS had a 10pt lead and held on to beat Langham Creek (55-54) on their home court. Unsigned senior Lawrence Paye (the sibling of ex Strake Jesuit star Sei Paye) led Cy Fair with 14pts while sophomore Chase Brogna added 13. Cy Fair is now 8-1 heading into today's semi final showdown against Klein Forest. Before you start frowning over the thought of considering Cy Fair as a true player, their lone loss was against Mayde Creek on opening night. In that game Cy Fair missed a record 26 free throws!
OTHER NEWS!
The debut of Wesley Afolayan has been pushed back until next week when Yates travels to Hawaii. However, the Lions still got back to their crushing ways - beating a high school team from Australia (136-61). However, last night marked the return of the team's 6th man, Trey Dickerson who played eariler in the season, but an error in paperwork sidelined him for a couple games. The Lions get a chance to bite Westside HS this afternoon (2pm @ Delmar Fieldhouse). This game is NOT a part of the St Pius Shootout as previously advertised on the schedule submitted to us by the event administration. As a matter fact, it appears the entire schedule (that has been taken down) from the Home Page was rather misleading to say the least. It listed Yates JV playing Riverside (LA) on yesterday, and the varsities playing this evening. That schedule also had Yates playing Baytown Prep and The Village School. I've confirmed that Yates varsity will NOT be playing this evening. "I never told him (St Pius head coach Henry Sims) that our varsity was playing", explained Yates head coach Greg Wise. "He said he needed some help with a team and I told him I could let my JV play, then he agreed. We had to honor our schedule to play the Australian team, and there was no way to play them, the Louisiana team, and Westside. He knew that when we first talked". The governing body of Texas HS public school basketball (UIL) restricts the amount of (non tournament) games which public schools may play each week, and with the maximum of two non district games already scheduled, Wise was indeed wise in not pursuing the Riverside game. So I then phoned the St Pius coach to get his take on the schedule, but he was in the gym and promised to phone me back within 5 minutes. It has been 30 minutes and running, and although I'm sure he will do so, but he hasn't called back yet. Once again, the previously scheduled meeting between Yates vs Westside is still on and poppin at Delmar Fieldhouse (2pm). This game along with the Australian Team from last night were original non district games listed on Yates official schedule which had long been circulated throughout the basketball community. Today's 2pm game is the last time Yates will play locally until January. Next week, they travel to Hawaii and the week afterwards, Alabama.
While on the topic, Riverside Academy (LA) shocked Humble Christian Life (66-56) yesterday afternoon. This was Christian Life's second loss in their past 3 games. They travel to Vegas next week and will take on #1 ranked Findlay Prep before proceeding into the Vegas based Bishop Gorman Tournament.
Seven Lakes played the game of their lives against Yates the other night, and I was wondering if they'd be able to keep up the same level of intensity this weekend. Well, the Spartans have dropped to 8-6 on the season after losing to a team out of Austin (63-62). Hopefully they can bounce back and finish the Hill Country Tournament on a strong note.
Port Arthur Memorial is straight up knocking folks out down in the YMBL Tournament held in Beaumont. Yesterday's 66-36 win over Dallas South Oak Cliff could be the largest defeat in quite a number of years for the recent back to back to back to back state champions.
Don't look now, but Kingwood HS (11-4) is at it again. After opening the season with three straight losses, these dudes are defending and that's a priceless asset to have at the high school level. Their latest victim was Westfield HS who managed to score only 27pts while Kingwood hit 47 in the win. In 15 games, only one opponent has surpassed the 50pt mark and that was Elkins who lost that game 52-59. Kingwood also has wins over North Crowley, Northshore, College Park, San Antonio Madison, and a 29pt win over Seven Lakes. If you're scoring at home, Westfield HS (5-4) has only 57pts combined in the past two games.
FRIDAY, DEC 11th
Just as I was enroute to check out the Cy Fair ISD and Outback Tournaments, my phone rang with the good news that the hospital was discharging her at that very moment. So it was a no-brainer as to how quickly I busted a right on the beltway and darted over to Kingwood Hospital to get her home safe and sound. Props to Melvin Marks and son for stopping by with the family size order of fish (mom's favorite). Mom is doing well so far. I've been up since 4am taking care of her, and updating this VIP ROOM so you guys can have a productive weekend. For all you young men out there - I ain't gonna keep reminding you - take care of your mommas. Family comes first, this basketball stuff will still be here. Now let's talk some hoops...
Yates has entered the St Pius Shootout which kicks off today (at three locations). The event will conclude on Saturday 7:30pm with a special showdown between Yates HS and one of Louisiana's Top 3 teams, Riverside Academy featuring soph All American Ricardo Gathers. Riverside is a remix of the late Reserve Christian after the nationally known private school located in the shadows of New Orleans, closed the doors on their basketball program earlier this year. Check out the schedule which is posted on the home page.
OTHER NEWS!
Stratford beat Lee 76-40 in game 1 of the Outback Tournament pool play. Leading scorers were Sean Bowman with 23 points and Darrious Curry with 15. Lotanna Agbasi led on the defensive end with 9 rebounds. Stratford (8-1) suffered their first defeat when Bush dashed out to a 41-7 halftime lead and never looked back as they flat lined Stratford 77-40. Bush is one of the area's hottest teams! In the past five games, they've smashed opponents which have included Midland, Atascocita, and Stratford by a spread of over 30ppg. As expected, Washington HS got thumped in pool play as players and coach sat out first game of suspensions stemming from a brawl vs Sam Houston the other night.
Over in Baytown, the Lee College Classic got underway with three Louisiana teams as part of the field. Baytown Sterling shocked Westgate (LA) behind the hot hands of soph DeShawn Williams (27p/13r/6a) and senior pg Andre Corley (21p/11r). Also in the same event, Jacob Horton hit four treys (20pts) to lead Clear Lake past Crosby.
Down in Beaumont at the YMBL Tournament, Westbury Christian beat Dallas Kimball (62-41) for the second time this season. Port Arthur Memorial beat New Orleans Walker HS and continued to shape into one of the area's hottest teams, since they fumbled a last second heart breaker to that same Kimball squad during the Thanksgiving Jamboree. The talk of the town is the 3A Silsbee Tigers after an impressive 70-34 win over Eisenhower. Sure Ike is down, but not to the extent where they should lose to a 3A team by five touchdowns.
The Cy Fair ISD Tournament was highlighted (or lowlighted, depending on which team you're with) by a pair of opening day reality checks. Brazoswood beat Cy Woods and Katy sent Klein Collins to the left.
Fort Bend Baptist had a team drop out of their Eagle Holiday Classic on December 26th – 28th and need a replacement. If a team is interested, contact tournament director John Frye 281-433-6965.
COLLEGE NEWS!
Ex Strake Jesuit star Austin Claunch was named player of the week after leading Emery (GA) to a pair of wins. Another former Strake player, Stevie Rogers scored 32pts to lead Choate Rosemary Hall prep school to a huge overtime win over Taft. Several mid level colleges have expressed interest in Rogers since his decommitting from Rice a few months ago.
Ex Jones HS star Ray Turner has received clearance from the NCAA to join the Texas A&M squad effective immediately. Turner was a 1st team All City Selection last season, and I still have him (dunking over Henry Buckley of Wheatley HS) as one of my screen savers. It is unclear whether Turner will play this Saturday when the Aggies take on unbeaten New Mexico at the Toyota Center. Speaking of that game, am I the only one who noticed the advertisement for the game includes ex Hastings HS star BJ Holmes, but not any of the 4 New Mexico players who attended Houston high schools. Instead, the lone Lobo is not even from Texas. It may not seem that big of a deal, but that wasn't smart at all. Basically the equivalent of the Rockets taking out an ad in Argentina and using the likeness of Aaron Brooks instead of Luis Scola.
WEDNESDAY, DEC 9th
Mark this week on your calendars as UPSET WEEK, because in the past four days virtually every top rated team in the area either got beat or got one heck of a scare. These types of situations can serve as good teaching examples or they can lead to a spiraling string of losses or ugly wins. No matter what the case may be, here's a quick recap of what happened to some of the designer teams last night.
Bellaire survived an upset bid against Hightower (46-40), Dulles benefitted from a buzzer beating shot by DeAngelo Harrison to hold back Pearland (53-51). Milby was fresh off their 2nd place finish in Corpus Christi, got hit upside the head by Reagan HS. Can someone let me know the last time Reagan beat Milby? Also, Stratford improved to 7-0 behind the hot hands of Darrious Curry (19pts) and Bahrom Firozgary (15pts) to slide by Mayde Creek (62-58). Top ranked Yates HS even appeared to be mere mortals as their quest to be the nation's first team since 1969 to score 100pts in 14 straight games was halted during their 88-76 win over Seven Lakes (7-5). Although the Lions did win by double digits, it felt somewhat of a loss in the Fear Factor department. Yates won the opening tip and Darius Gardner flipped a no look alley oop to Brandon Peters to get the Lions fans off to a huge roar. They stole the inbounds pass and scored a quick layup and this thing looked like it was about to get ugly. Seven Lakes bounced back and actually took the lead by as much as 17-14 with just under 90 seconds left in the first quarter, before Yates responded with an 8-1 spurt.
Credit must be administered to Seven Lakes young floor general Trey Pinkney (17p/ 10a/ 7 to) who earned the respect of many fans who have read right over his name for the past two years I've been talking about him on this site as well as Da Magazine. This sophomore was splendid in breaking down the press and forcing Yates to briefly call it off because Pinkney appeared flat out immune to it. However, during a twenty seconds span of the final frame, Pinkney picked up his 3rd and 4th foul which prompted Coach Dan Miller to sat him down for a hot second or two. That enabled Yates to grab control of this game. Joseph Young (27pts) was the hero of the night after heating up for 15 consecutive points (including a buzzer beating trey to end the 3Q) and eventually turned a 60-58 nail biter into a 75-60 cushion with 6:44 left in the game. Young had only 7pts at the half (0/6 treys) before turning it on when his team needed him most. With 1:44 to go, a layup by Young gave the Lions their largest lead of the game (88-70). Conceding to the fact that they were not likely to score 12pts in just under two minutes, Yates spread the floor offensively in a prevent offense. Just like in football, these styles normally give up points one way or another. Seven Lakes ended the game with a 6-0 run to make the margin even more impressive.
I'm pretty sure that Seven Lakes head coach Dan Miller's phone is ringing off the hook this morning as teams from across the state will be requesting a DVD of last night's game in effort to find a way to beat Yates. This is good, but could be misleading. That is why the game after the game is soooo important because it truly defines the internal capacity of a team. With that being said, all eyes will be on Yates as they will be in action this Friday and Saturday in the St Pius Jamboree which includes a Saturday 2pm matinee vs Westside HS @ Delmar Fieldhouse. Be sure to check the Home Page for that schedule which should be posted on Thursday. Meanwhile, the schedules for the Outback and Cy Fair ISD Tournaments are posted on the Home Page as well. Plus, if you click on GAME SCHEDULES room (left bar), you guys may be in for a treat. If you are a high school coach and wish to have your game(s) added, simply email us at rcs@usa.com.
Included amongst the area's top upsets are: Elkins losing to Cy Falls (73-70), and this is by no means a discredit to Cy Falls. Earlier this season, Elkins beat Kingwood, LaMarque, and Elsik. However, the are riding a two game skid after allowing Kingwood to get sweet revenge this past weekend in San Antonio's Lone Star Shootout.
Fort Bend Austin shocked Alief Hastings (48-46) to improve to 6-1 thus far. This is Austin's best start in quite a long time. I applaud head coach Chris Wilson for doing a super job at comprising a schedule that enables this team to build the confidence against average opponents while adding a few tests here and there. In past years, Austin would play mostly tougher teams (on paper) and basically looked upon as sparring partners. Not any more!
The Worthing Colts dropped one to Baytown Lee (73-66). After getting cold-cocked the other day vs Seven Lakes, the CE King Panthers got back into the win column by upsetting St Thomas (53-48). And last but not least, Klein Forest was surprised by Nimitz HS (51-38).
OTHER NEWS!
The grapevine tells me that three starter from Washington HS has been suspended from the team for at least the next two games. The Eagles are in a very tough pool at this weekend's Outback Tournament. Then again, it ain't too tough now that Washington is depleted.
TUESDAY, DEC 8th:
Many of you guys have been itching for some news to get your week off to an interesting start. Well, here you go... Yates HS has received a dose of super news. Remember the story surrounding Wesley Afolayan 6'8 pf 2010 who transferred from Kashmere HS before the district committee ruled him not eligible to join the Lions this season? Well, on yesterday, the UIL overturned that decision and not only is the Compton, CA native eligible to play - he's expected to be in uniform TONIGHT when Yates play Seven Lakes HS @ Katy Merrill Center. For those of you who haven't seen Wesley play, then he's pretty much a less traveled version of ex Kashmere HS star Isaiah Rusher.
Also on yesterday, ex Elsik HS players Martin & Gilbert Carter were ruled NOT eligible by the UIL. Fellow Elsik transfer, Darrious and Damion Curry were approved by the district committee on Nov 16th and were exempt from an additional hearing by the UIL. Meanwhile, Elsik HS continued to identify themselves as one of the area's most disappointing teams of the non district season. The Rams are now (3-6) and are in definite need of a closed door meeting, slumber party, or whatever it will takes to get those kids to start having fun.
Nimitz HS administration has removed Randy Gilmer as head coach of the varsity. Although the specific reason has varied from my different leaves on the trees, I will simply contact Gilmer myself and speak on this topic when I'm equipped with proper accounts.
OTHER NEWS!
Westbury Christian's championship win over Killeen HS this past weekend broke a state best 45 home win streak by the "Runnin Roos" (I just had to mention the name of that mascot). Killeen hadn't lost a home game since December 2006 (vs Bryan HS).
Props to Milby HS after advancing finishing second place at the Corpus Christi ISD Tourney. After beating Brazoswood in the semis, the Buffs (5-3) dropped a 66-49 decision to Corpus West Oso. In action last night, Randy Collins scored 28pts, Cedric Jones 18, and Drew Parker 14pts to lead LaPorte HS wayyyy past Dickinson HS (70 something to 40 something). Senior forward Jordan Quillan returned to Kingwood Park's lineup and posted 15pts in a 55-38 win over Cy Ranch. .
SUNDAY, DEC 6th:
Heading into the first full week of December, Yates HS appear to be the area's lone undefeated team. Several teams got their first losses over the past 72 hours.
Dulles HS won the Round Rock Tournament this past weekend, but not without obtaining a battle scar. The Vikings got upset by then (1-6) Leander HS in pool play but still advanced into bracket play to beat Pflugerville Hendrickson (9-1) and Round Rock McNeil in the championship rounds. Next up for Dulles (8-1) is a Tuesday showdown against Pearland HS.
Props to Westbury Christian after winning the Killeen Tournament over the weekend. The Wildcats beat Killeen HS in the title game (53-49) in the title game. Anthony Collins and Justin Foreman were named to the All Tournament Team. This is a huge recovery for Westbury Christian (13-1) after suffering their first loss against Bellaire nearly a week ago.
As posted on the Home Page, Humble Christian Life and Second Baptist experienced their first defeats of the short season while playing in the South Padre Island Invitational. Second Baptist used a three point play by Alex Cooper with two seconds left in regulation to shock the private school powerhouse., 61-60 in the semi final round. It was blatantly obvious that Second Baptist exhausted most of their energy during the celebrating phase of that win, because they came out very flat in the championship game which they handed to a more determined and focused San Antonio Clarke squad coached by Clear Lake product Steve Sylestine.
Christian Life's Leslee Smith and Chris Coleman were joined on the All Tournament Team by Second Baptist stars LJ Rose and Mikhail McLean. A sportsmanship award in the name of legendary coach "Guy V. Lewis" was announced to the Houston based HCYA team. Tournament director Vern Lewis will mail the plaque to HCYA coach Tom Sanders since the team returned to Houston after their quarterfinal loss against Second Baptist. Speaking of HCYA, leading scorer and All Greater Houston selection, John Caleb Sanders (signed w/ Liberty) has yet to return from last month's leg injury. However, freshman shooter Justin Jackson has emerged to somewhat of a leader on the floor and scored 19pts in that particular loss.
It's always fun to keep tabs on the area's ninth graders who are living up to the hype while logging quality minutes on their varsity squads around the area. Here's a few updates on (10) fellow 2013 stars (if you know someone we missed, send an email to rcs@usa.com)...
- Derrick Griffin 6'6 (Terry HS) posted a triple double in a recent win
- Ken Williams Jr 5'9 (Episcopal HS) scored 25pts in a recent loss
- Chris Johnson 6'4 (Bryan HS) a key role player in the team's unbeaten run
- Denzell Evans 5'10 (Bellaire HS) has earned a spot in the 8 man rotation for the area's top 5A team
- Paris Clayton 5'11 (Clear Lake HS) is the team's starting pg
- DeShawn Robinson 6'1 (Alief Elsik HS) often one of the first guards off the bench for the Rams
- Dedrick Basile 5'10 (Madison HS) scored 17pts in a recent loss
- Deosic West 6'4 (Spring HS) one of the varsity's leading rebounders
- Chris Saiz 5'10 (Cinco Ranch HS) the team's starting point guard averaging 6ppg / 3apg/ 2spg
- Brandon Rooney 5'11 (HCYA) had earned a spot in the 8 man rotation, and scored double digits 2x this season
- Keith Ford 5'10 (Cy Ranch HS) starts on varsity and lead team with 13ppg
Saturday, December 5
WEEK OF NOV 30 - DEC 5th!
SATURDAY, DEC 5th:
The Katy ISD Classic will resume action on this afternoon. Schedule is posted on the Home Page. Still, there will be no winner of this event. Teams are merely proceeding with most of their scheduled matchups, aside from some teams who dropped out the tournament because of district travel restrictions. Cmon now guys, no way Katy ISD would have shut down shop knowing their football team is slated to play a very important playoff game Saturday afternoon.
Down in Beaumont, the James White Classic played about four games before suspending action. They will resume Saturday morning, but I have not been supplied with an updated schedule as of midnight. Friday results are posted on the Home Page. I guess the administration didn't think of how many phone calls they could have prevented from buzzing their phones off the hook had they simply did what most of the other tournament brass have been doing over the past 48 hours - keeping RCS Sports abreast of course.
Westbury Christian squeaked past Pflugerville Connally (57-55) then proceeded to knock a dent in Dallas Madison (55-38) heading into bracket play of the Killeen Tournament. Next up is a 1pm matchup against host team Killeen Ellison.
Down on Padre Island, five Houston area teams are in action. Baytown Prep lost their first two bracket games (Austin Vista 63-56 and Harlingen South 36-35) and won their rubber game Friday afternoon. A special game with Baytown Prep vs Yates HS was in the final stages of being set, but HISD cancelled all extra curricular activities on their campuses for Saturday. This pretty much scrapped that thought of ever transpiring, and it also prevented Yates from hitting 150pts again.
Christian Life beat Ft Bend Clements (93-31) and Austin VIsta to set up a semi final game against unbeaten Second Baptist in the Padre Island Invitational. This game will take place at 12pm and you can watch it live by clicking here www.b2tv.com . Second Baptist knocked off state ranked San Antonio Stevens before advancing to beat HCYA in the quarter final game. In the other semi final, Plano West vs San Antonio Clarke. The two losers will play for 3rd place while the winners will clash for 1st. Plano West eliminated Houston based charter school, University Park in the quarters. Also, St Thomas finished 1-2 at this event. After beating Brownsville Rivera (60-53) the Eagles fell to Converse Judson and Austin Lake Travis.
OTHER NEWS!
Tuesday's Nike Hoops Madness game featuring Yates vs Seven Lakes has been moved from Seven Lakes to the Katy Merrill Center. The move was made in hopes of preventing any untimely arrival from missing this game due to expected overflow crowd. Game time remains 7pm.
FRIDAY, DEC 4th:
MOST OF TODAY'S AREA TOURNAMENTS HAVE BEEN POSTPONED or CANCELLED as a result of the declining weather. Be sure to CHECK THE HOME PAGE for updates.
Thanks to your emails and phone calls, Ch. 55 "High School Sports Live" will air my first segment of the 2009-10 season THIS WEEKEND. This comes on the heels of your many requests to the station's administration. Besides, I know you guys have been starving for some flava on your weekly dish of "HSSL". Quite surely I will debut a new brim on this weekend's show which airs Sat 3pm, Sunday 6pm, and Monday 8pm.
Westbury Christian knocked off Harker Heights (57-42) in the first pool play game on Thursday. Action resumes today with the following pool games for the Wildcats.
Friday 10:30am
Pflugerville Panthers (Class 5A, #11) vs. Westbury Christian Wildcats (Reigning TAPPS 4A State Champs)
Friday 4:30pm
Westbury Christian Wildcats vs. Dallas Madison Mighty Trojans (Class 3A #1 and Reigning State Champs)
In the Aldine ISD Invitational, Texas Tech recruit Jamel Outler scored 12pts and Western Kentucky bound Kene Anyigbo added 11pts to guide Bellaire (9-1) past Hastings by a tune of 62-44. This was actually one of Bellaire's better games from the reserves, but it appeared blatantly obvious (to me) that many members on this team have little to no trust for each other. That (trust) my friend, is one of the most overlooked values of a champion. For example when a player gets a rebound or an outlet pass - there could be a teammate streaking to the basket all alone - and it's like the initial player has to dribble or calculate his efforts before making the decision not to pass it at all. When the dominoe effect begins to take place, just what do you think that secondary player will do when he sees his teammate (who didn't pass the rock previously) all alone looking for that pass? Trust is a mutha... Even with that being said, the Cardinals have won all but two of their games by 15pts or more. These guys are strong arming themselves to victories, but these wins aren't packing the knock out punches that many fans around the Houston area have grown spoiled towards expecting. Next up for Bellaire is a rematch against Washington HS (Fri 8pm @ Campbell Ctr). This game is one of the main reasons Washington entered this event. The Eagles got their wish, so let's see what they are able to do with it. One thing's for certain, if Bellaire comes into the gym with that same lackluster amount of energy, then we could be writing about the upset of the week. Then again, Washington slipped by MacArthur (69-66) in their first round matchup on Thursday evening. In other first round games of the Aldine ISD Inv'l, Sam Houston and Madison suffered first round shockers at the hands of Eisenhower and Aldine HS. Nimitz HS blasted Sharpstown HS. Sam Houston State head coach was in the stands to watch his future point guard Byron Randle and Friendswood HS dismantle the New Orleans Walker HS (who were without two starters - disciplinary reasons). With that loss, the consolation side of the bracket becomes much less predictable than the championship side. Be sure to check the home page for Friday's game times.
The Houston Christian Tournament kicks off today, and at high-noon, two the state's Top 10 private schools will square off as Fort Bend Baptist takes on Dallas Bishop Lynch.
Dulles HS remained unbeated after two players nearly outscored Round Rock HS in the first round of the Round Rock Tournament. Unsigned senior Bryant Mbamalu went off for a career high 30pts and junior guard D'Angelo Harrison scored 22pts to lift the Vikings to a 74-58 win.
OTHER NEWS!|
Junior wing Chris Patureau had career highs of 36pts/ 19rebs, Nick McDonald had 19pts/ 11rebs, and Brandon Trower added 13pts/ 10asts to help NE Christian past Logo Prep (80-37) and improve to 8-3 on the season.
DeMarcus Cormier has left Furr HS and is now enrolled at Nimitz HS where he is currently awaiting clearance to join the varsity. Last season, he starred on varsity at Furr HS who now has a new head coach.
A pair of tenth graders in the area's largest district (23-5A) have been rewarded for their spectacular football seasons. Hightower HS star running back / point guard Bralon Addison received the Offensive Newcomer of the Year award while Elkins HS star Chance Allen received first team all district honors at wide receiver.
Click here to check out "The Dad's" latest very informative article which all parents should read http://www.bbcplayers.com/Community/TheDadsBBBlog/tabid/68/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3/Examine-the-School-Coach-and-Scholarship-Offer-Closely-to-Avoid-Surprises.aspx. Speaking of "The Dad", he is currently running a holiday special on DVDs of the Parent & Coaches Workshop. This is the perfect time for some of you parents to take advantage of something that you know good n well you needed like yesterday. Stop procrastinating!
While we're on the topic of recruiting, Brescia college coach Shane Howard has launched his new site as well (Custom College Recruiting). It is geared towards assisting Non D1 prospects and colleges alike. Problem is... most prospects swear up and down that their favorite Big 12 or SEC team will be offering any day now. While you're waiting, click here to view http://www.customcollegerecruiting.com/ .
DAY OL' DONUTS!
After losing a heart breaker against Nimitz (61-65) in the semi-finals, Cy Creek bounced back and won 3rd place at the Rebounder's Club Thanksgiving tournament this past weekend. Creek was led by seniors Robert Goffney, Rashaun Riley, and Cameron Flemming (Baby Shack). Riley and Flemming were named to the All Tournament Team.
THURSDAY, DEC 3rd:
Nike has picked up next week's game between Yates vs Seven Lakes. The sneaker giant will sponsor a bus load of Yates students to the game, and print up spirit T-Shirts for both teams involved. This is huge news and it actually helps Seven Lakes since their student section was awarded the "Slammie" award by "High School Sports Live" which airs weekly on channel 55. Speaking of 55, thanks to the hundreds of phone calls and emails, the top rated high school show is bringing me back for the 8th season of high school hoops. I will keep you guys posted on my first taping.
ATTN HS COACHES!
Kingwood HS is seeking a game on Dec 21st (home or away)! It could be varsity only or all 5 teams. That's one helluva fundraiser if you can get Kingwood to come to your gym, because those guys roll pretty deep. If interested, send an email to james.odom@humble.k12.tx.us
OTHER NEWS!
For the past 12 hours my mind has been ripping and running all over the place. We rushed my mom to the ER where they admitted her into Kingwood Hospital. She's doing better already - even answered the phone a lil while ago. So with the holiday season upon us once again, this is the perfect opportunity to remind you guys to not allow this basketball stuff to consume too much of your allocated family time. Young men, old men! Call your moms this morning and make her smile. Hell, it don't matter if you quote a knock knock joke, then do it. With that thought in mind, I'm on the way back to the hospital where I will be the rest of the afternoon, and will try to catch a couple games later this evening. We only get one momma, family comes first guys - remember that.
Let's chat tomorrow. Tournament Schedules are posted on the home page!.
WEDNESDAY, DEC 2nd:
Despite the messy weather in Houston last night, a standing room only crowd jammed into St Thomas gymnasium to witness the annual showdown against Strake Jesuit. Everything that could go wrong for St Thomas did go wrong. Strake's super sophomore Rasheed Sulaimon (13pts) scored 7 straight points during a two minute span in the third quarter to pretty much put the game into double digit territory for good. Strake won 47-29.
Afterwards, I dashed over to 5th Ward to check out Dickinson end their 3 game skid at the expense of Wheatley HS. Junior guards Ivory Mark and Dedrick Archie combined for 53pts including a pair of key three point plays which erased a 7pt lead down the stretch. Four Wheatley players fouled out during the process, but that still validates no excuse for them losing this game. In the history of Wheatley Wildcat basketball, I've never witnessed a thinner crowd for home game. The gym was only 1/2 packed, and the normal burst of energy the players pick up from the fans (and vice versa) was basically non existent. Bottom line, it was the perfect setting for a loss. Meanwhile, Dickinson has played arguably the toughest non district schedule in all of Houston. No, I'm serious. After glancing at this 9 game stretch, it's easy to see how this team is 4-5. Yates, Atascocita, North Crowley, Pearland, Duncanville, DeSoto, Dulles, Friendswood, and Wheatley. Of those nine teams, all except one was ranked in the state pre season polls. Plus, each of those teams should either finish 1st or 2nd in their perspective district come Feb. To make things more interesting is the fact that Dickinson's next two games are on the road vs Bush HS and LaPorte HS. Obviously, in order to schedule a lineup such as that, head coach Mike Tucker has very high aspirations for his squad. One thing for certain, you can't argue that Dickinson aint battle tested.
OTHER NEWS!
God's Academy head coach Tim Miller called me at the crack of dawn yesterday morning all hyped up and everything for the anticipated matchup versus Humble Christian Life. By mid afternoon, Miller and his team didn't make the trip and that left Christian Life scrambling for an opponent. Baytown Christian Prep came and saved the day. Christian Life ended up winning this matchup 69-47 as expected, but to come that close is a mental win for the very young Baytown Prep team which feature sophomores Wannah Bail 6'8 f, Danrad Knowles 6'10 c, and Michael Carey 6'5 cg. Speaking of Baytown Prep, their record is now 3-4 on the season.
The Darrious Curry experiment is working like magic because Stratford has improved to (5-0) after they beat Katy 64-48. Curry has a team high 9pts and teammate Sean Bowman grabbed 12rebs to go with 8pts in the win.
Be sure to check out the schedules of area tournaments, posted on the home page!
TUESDAY, DEC 1st:
In addition to the various Tuesday night games around the area, Don't forget there are 3 big time showdowns that take place tonight as well.
1. Strake Jesuit @ St Thomas
2. Dickinson @ Wheatley
3. Humble Christian Life vs Dallas God's Academy @ Fall Brook Church (12512 Walters Rd, Houston 77014). All games will start at 7:30, and the Christian Life game will be preluded by both teams' Prep squads (5th year seniors) going head to head @ 6pm.
Being the Kashmere alum that I am, it was absolutely heartgrabbing knowing there was nothing I could do to prevent Yates HS fans from celebrating after the score reached 148-47 with just under thrity seconds to go. A hundred and one points was all I could think as a Yates fan waved a $5 bill in front of my face in effort to break my brief day dream spell. I actually felt a lil better after Kashmere player scored on a layup to bring the margin back under 100pts, and proceeded to accept a few challenges from Yates fans who thought the lead would grow back into triple digits. Three, two, one, aaaaaaaa. Final, 148-49 - Yates beats Kashmere by "only" 99pts. Yeah, I know - Amazing aint it. Here's the linescore for you pleasure...
Y (148): Joseph Young 27, Darius Gardner 27, Brandon Peters 18, Marshall Lange 13, Greg Watts 13, Alex Davis 12, Ronnie Lewis 12
K (49): Ruston Hayward 21
Believe it or not, I got chance to check out the much anticipated unbeaten Westbury Christian vs Bellaire showdown prior to the Yates game. In that game, the only quarter that was close was the first. Bellaire dominated the boards totally on the offensive end. Westbury Christian opened in a man defense and had Anthony Brancato guarding Kene Anyigbo. It didn't take long for him to get a combo of tiredness and foul trouble. Westbury Christian took advantage of Bellaire's zone defense and closed to within 16-13 heading into the second quarter. Bellaire made a few adjustments offensively, and continued to attack the rim and get second and sometimes third chances on each possession. Sheldon McClellan made several key plays while Sebastian Douglass and Johnathon Evans took turns containing Anthony Collins (7pts - five coming in the last 4 minutes of regulation), and Westbury Christian basically stood still as the lead increased to 31-14 with under a minute left in the half. The halftime score was 31-16. The entire second half was bascially give and take on both ends of the court. The highlight of the half was Tobi Oyedeji (10pts) stuffing a baby hook attempt by Nick Shepard (4pts). Westbury Christian could never get the lead into single digit territory and Bellaire appeared to be holding serve the rest of the way. This is the part of the Bellaire squad that has me concerned - they don't have a killer instinct. Better yet, they don't possess that 6th sense where they can tell a team is wanting to be knocked out, or put out of their misery. Bottom line, both teams played on Friday, Saturday, and had not one single day to prepare for each other (unless they attended Church together on Sunday). There's no way Westbury Christian should have played this game with no practice in between the grueling weekend (Thanksgiving Jamboree). However, if Bellaire had lost, I may have said the same thing about them. No doubt.
B (66): Sheldon McClellan 19, Kene Anyigbo 11, Tobi Oyedeji 10
WC (46): Anthony Brancato 11
OTHER NEWS!
Junior guard Goree Allen poured in 29pts to lead Wheatley to an important road win at Madison (107-93). Madison was led by CJ Shelvin (26pts). Over the holidays, Wheatley dropped a tough one against Tyler Lee HS, but this win over Madison puts them in a good frame of mind as they prepare to host Dickinson HS. Remember, this is the same Dickinson team who lost to Yates by 60, then beat Duncanville in the Pasadena Tournament.
Kyle Schleigh (17pts) and Tevin Svihovec (16pts) sparked Kingwood to a second half surge while cruising past College Park HS (64-47) on the road.
Hightower held LaPorte to only 2pts in the first quarter, but somehow forgot there were three more periods to play. The big three of Randy Collins (21pts), Cedric Jones (14pts), and Drew Parker (11pts) nearly outscored Hightower's final tally by themselves. The final in that one was, LaPorte 56 - 39.
MONDAY, NOV 30th:
Props to Humble Christian Life for making "Da Magazine" increase its value. Our annual publication listed the local private school as the #2 school in Greater Houston. This past weekend, they traveled to Dallas (Thanksgiving Hoopfest presented by DFW MetroPlex Hoops) and went against Provine (MS), a team who is listed #22 in the nation by USA TODAY. Well, somebody should have warned those guys about Christian Life. Jason Carter scored 14pts and CJ Smith added 11pts to help Christian Life erase a 17pt deficit, and knock off the Mississippi boys 64-59. Don't think for a minute that I'm about to let the country ignore the fact that they snubbed Christian Life from their pre season lists. At the same time, the coaches at Christian Life are expected to keep media abreast of their accomplishments, and it will be hard to forget / ignore them.
I absolutely love the minimal coverage which the Houston Chronicle provides regarding high school hoops. Why? Well, whenever they print the wrong game start time / location (such as Bellaire vs Westbury Chr), it makes you guys love RCS Sports more and more. This is one of the main reasons we published 5 pages of high school schedules on pg 60 of "Da Magazine". By the way, if you have not purchased your copy of this year's edition, then shame on you. "Da Magazine" is over 100pgs and is very affordable for everyone. Roughly 21 Borders, Waldenbooks, and Barnes & Noble bookstores have a personal copy for you right now. See the home page for a complete list of locations near you, and support RCS Sports today.
Speaking of Bellaire vs Westbury Christian, that particular game has been moved from Tuesday to Monday, and the site has been moved from Butler to Bellaire. Therefore, expect an overflow crowd, but I really don't think it will be as bad as many of you may think. Don't forget, #1 Jack Yates will be playing Kashmere on Monday evening as well. This game could very well produce a 100pt spread since Kashmere indirectly prevented Wesley Afolayan from joining the Yates squad a couple weeks ago. The kid switched schools and it created news which resulted in a hearing held by the school district. Eventually a tight vote denied the kid's eligibility, and hindered the Lions from gaining a 6'8 body in their lineup. We'll see how this one turns out in 24 hours.
OTHER NEWS!
Baytown Prep (1-4) continued to experience growing pains after falling to Aryle Liberty Christian (44-35) in Dallas this past weekend. Baytown Prep was outscored 30-12 in the second half of that contest. Heralded sophomores Wannah Bail and Michael Carey combined for only 15pts in the loss. Combined? Cmon guys, that's unacceptable. We've started to hear the "They are young" excuses already. My take is simple - LJ Rose is young, J'Mychal Reese is a sophomore as well, yet neither has more than one D1 teammate alongside them, and their teams are undefeated right now. Say what you want, but I'm all about "W's", especially for point guards.
COLLEGE UPDATE!
Well since the month of November officially ends in a few hours, let's take a look at how the Houston class of 2009 products are faring at D1 colleges after the first few weeks of action. (listed according to who's playing the most minutes/ game). Bold denotes player has started at least one game this season.
| PLAYER |
COLLEGE |
MPG |
PPG |
| Ray Penn |
Oklahoma St |
30.7 |
8.3 |
| Tommy Mason Griffin |
Oklahoma |
29.8 |
8.6 |
| KennyOnyechi |
Long Island |
25.4 |
9 |
| Tim Frazier |
Penn St |
22.7 |
8.2 |
| Blake Jolivette |
American |
21 |
5.7 |
| Garlon Green |
TCU |
20.6 |
6 |
| Miles Dixon |
HBU |
19 |
4.6 |
| Jamal Fenton |
New Mexico |
17.5 |
6.5 |
| Khris Roy |
HBU |
13.7 |
4.7 |
| Reid Wallace |
Northern Arizona |
10.5 |
3 |
| Joe Carr |
VMI |
10.3 |
1.5 |
| Aaron Mike Davis |
Texas Tech |
8.9 |
2.1 |
| Erik Williams |
Marquette |
7.3 |
3.7 |
| Garrett Constance |
Wagner |
6.7 |
0.7 |
| Derek Johnson |
Evansville |
4 |
2 |
| Josef Brown |
Dartmouth |
4 |
1 |
| Joey Brooks |
Notre Dame |
3.7 |
1.5 |
| JJ Richardson |
Pittsburgh |
3.5 |
0.5 |
| Garrett Brown |
Dartmouth |
3.5 |
0.8 |
| Matt Staff |
New Mexico |
3.2 |
1.3 |
| Bino Ghogomu |
Dartmouth |
3 |
0.5 |
Wednesday, November 25
WEEK OF NOV 22nd - 28th!
WEDNESDAY, NOV 25th:
Be sure to check me out today on your radio or internet dial (www.kcohradio.com). KCOH 1430am, 5pm -7pm on "SportsRap" hosted by Ralph Cooper. We will supply you guys with a heavy installment of basketball news around the area. Your phone calls are welcomed. Here's the number right into the broadcast booth, 713-526-1430. Speaking of Cooper, be sure to check out the brackets for the Stars of the Future Middle School Tournament in the Middle School News room (left bar).
Westbury Christian went ahead 34-9 at the half before cruising past Lamar HS (54-31) on Tuesday afternoon. Guard Kenny Wells had a season high 24pts/ 7rebs and sophomore Trey Guidry (15pts/ 15rebs) scored a put back with :02 remaining to lift St Pius over North Forest (59-58). Although St Thomas HS has opened the season with 3 starters out with injuries, the Eagles are off to a 9-3 start. Last night they crushed Furr (77-46) behind the stellar play of sophomores Aaron Durley (16p / 6r / 3b), Christian Sanders (14p/ 7r/ 6a), and Jeremy King (8p/ 9r). That's impressive, but not quite as eye opening as Terry HS and their (84-43) win over Pasadena. One of the area's top sleepers, Odera Nweke 6'4 f 2011 led the way with 15p/ 7r. Plus, Freshmen trio of Derrick Griffin (15p/ 8r/ 5b), Billy White (12p/ 6r), and Eugene Wright (6p/ 4a/ 3s) stepped up big in the victory. Not since LaPorte HS in 2006 have three crabs nearly outscored their opponent in a public school varsity game. Terry was supposed to have played Stafford this week, but there has apparently been a miscommunication on the schedule.
OTHER NEWS!
When Glen Smith (MetroPlexHoops.com) texted at halftime to inform me that Humble Christian Life was getting smashed by Arlington Grace Prep (41-24), I immediately conceded there was no way the area's #2 team would emerge from that deep of a hole, especially on the road. How wrong I was. Christian Life outscored AGP (40-16) in the second half to pull out the courageous (64-57) win and I totally applaud this group for avoiding what I would have considered a huge upset.
Man, this season has been the most unpredictable since I've been doing predictions. Take Dickinson for example. They talk themselves up, allow Yates to bop them with the bop gun (143-61) before proceeding to upset Pearland and Duncanville this past weekend. Since then, Dickinson is on a 3 game losing streak (DeSoto, Dulles, and Friendswood). Sure they've played a tough schedule, but a three game skid ain't good at all. Plus, I'm not sure scheduling a Monday and Tuesday game on the heels of playing in the McDonald's Texas Invitational (5 guaranteed games) was the best of ideas. That's 7 games in five days. That sounds like a summer ball schedule.
Then, there's Atascocita. Good lawd, this team was supposed to be 10 times better once the football season ended, right? I certainly can't tell. They got lit up by Stratford on Monday and turned right around and lost at home to Hightower. Does this team realize that Norcross, GA and Mt Zion, NC will be in town four weeks from now?
TUESDAY, NOV 24th:
Shortly after 11am, Melvin Marks phoned to inform me of the news that Brandon "Snap" Peters had just phoned and made it official that he had committed to Western Kentucky. "He just told me, Man there's so much I like about this place, and it's where I wanna be", reflected Marks who coached Peters through many of his young summer ball seasons. Currently, Marks is the head coach at Lone Star College - Kingwood.
This is a super coup for head coach Kenny McDonald and his staff. Don't forget, they just inked Bellaire star Kene Anyigbo last week. Peters is currently the second leading scorer on the state's #1 team. Yates HS is off to one of the most blistering paces in high school basketball history. Thru their first two games, the Lions have scored 305pts, while winning by a combined margin of 154pts. Both of their opponents (Dickinson & Sam Houston High Schools) are 5A schools who near locks to make the playoffs once district time rolls around. Yates is off this week and will return to action Monday night vs Kashmere HS. Due to these crazy scores, two teams have pulled out of their scheduled games against Yates. If by chance, any high school coach would like to become their next (sparring partner) opponent on December 3rd, 4th, or 5th, feel free to email head coach Greg Wise wisegreg10@yahoo.com.
Since gaining eligibility to play at Stratford HS, UTEP recruit Darrious Curry has been on a tear! The long senior wing scored 25pts to lead Stratford to a blowout win over Atascocita HS (57-35). The strange thing about this win was the fact that three Atascocita football players Everett Pleasant, Chaz Carrington, and Leroy Taylor made their debut. All played, but Pleasant picked up a technical in the second quarter and did not return. That does not take away from the super night that Curry produced while scoring all over the court.
Speaking of Atascocita, they have started the season without guard Reggie Hill 6'2 g 2010 who is a casualty of NPNP. He's slated to return next Tuesday.
FT BEND BAPTIST CONTINUES TO ROLL! @ San Antonio Christian Tournament
In the final the Fort Bend Baptist Eagles had to work hard for the 74-73 victory over San Antonio Lee. The Eagles went in at halftime down 41-34 and had no answer for Northern Colorado signee Paul Garnica (30 pts). In the 2nd half, the Eagles were able to take the lead and also hold Garnica to only 4 points before picking up his 5th foul early in the 4th quarter. With 3.2 seconds remaining, Jeremy McCracken of Lee hits 2 fts to take the lead at 73-72. Things looked glim for FB Baptist, but never say never. Fred Broussard inbounded the ball to Drayton Rolle near the time line. He dribbled to the elbow and knocked down a buzzer beater to win the game.
OTHER NEWS!
The grapevine tells me the UIL confirmed Daniel Mataya 6'3 sg 2010 will be eligible to play at Cy Creek starting December 1st. After a clearance from the Cy Creek ISD, he's expected to be able to participate in practices.
Episcopal HS split a pair of games over the past couple days. Ken "Lil Juice" Williams 5'10 pg 2013 had 13pts in the win over Lutheran North and 18pts in a loss vs Concordia Lutheran. Katy HS guard Tanner Elenburg had 30 points against Bryan Rudder. Clear Brook HS won their season opener against Angelton 100-51. Clear Brook was led by a solid senior point guard Darren Smith who scored 20. Also Fred Richardson 6’4 f 2012 and Chris Cambell 6’2 g 2012 played key roles in the win.
VIP ROOM CURRENTLY BEING UPDATED!
MONDAY, NOV 23rd:
Props to Bellaire HS after living up to all the hype placed upon their shoulders heading into the regular season. They knocked off Austin Westlake (50-47) to win the championship of the McDonald's Texas Invitational (see recap on Home Page). The win put Bellaire in historic territory as they not only became the first HISD team to win the nation's most potent public school tournament, but they are also the first predominately African American team to do so. And I do mean that in every since of the word (lol) from the 12th guy all the way to the 3rd assistant coach.
OTHER NEWS!
I squeezed in the chance to check out the talented sophomore crop who comprise the Baytown Prep team. They played right around the corner at North Forest HS on Friday evening, and Baytown Prep pulled out the narrow win. Five players scored in double figures for Baytown Prep - Danrad Knowles 6'10 c (15pts), Gathoth Dewtang 6'6 g (13pts), Wanaah Bail 6'8 f (12pts), Michael Carey 6'5 g (12pts), and Kendal Deveaux 6'8 f (10pts). North Forest was led by Johnny Pope 5'10 g 2011 (19pts). On Saturday afternoon Baytown Prep dropped a close one (62-59) at Furr HS. This means it's obvious this team is nowhere near the level of elite, but the hardest part will be remaining in tact for the next two seasons. Cmon now let's not trick ourselves. Didn't we hear this same sales pitch from Heritage Christian, Gulfshores Academy, Livingstones Christian, and Cypress Community Christian? All bame on the scene as if they were reinventing the wheel. Like they were different than the previous school, and would be the Oak Hill of the South. I don't know about you, but I've heard it all before (four or five times before). So, what really makes Baytown Prep different than any of those others? Because they have a (potential) pro on the team? Last time I checked, Von Wafer (Heritage Christian 2003), Gerald Green (Gulfshores 2005), Hasheem Thabeet (Cypress Community Chr 2006), was drafted by NBA. The closest thing right now to compare to an Oak Hill or Findlay Prep would be Humble Christian Life. Make that CHSA defending national champion Humble Christian Life Center Academy who by the way produced a recent NBA pick in DeAndre Jordan (Chr Life 2007). I just try to caution folks from pushing these kids out there on the plank when you know good n well they can't swim.
As you fellow Cheetos fans would say, "It ain't easy being cheesy". That's just how the Yates HS team is feeling right about now after scoring 303pts in their first 2 games of the season. The fact that these dudes are averaging 151.5ppg is flat out ridiculous. On Friday I dashed over to catch the second half of their massacre against Sam Houston HS,and that was one of the most impressive lopsided wins (163-71) I've ever seen. For starters, I challenge you to email me with the last time a Houston public school produced single game total consisting of 9 players in double digits. Secondly, understand something about this 163pts. This wasn't your typical layup fest. It was a combination of layups, dunks, super perimeter shooting, and relentless pressure. Providence bound Joseph Young led the way with 35pts and not one other teammate scored 20pts or more, except for soph Clyde Santee (25pts). If there ever was a thing called balance, Jack Yates HS has it. By the way, Sam Houston was led by junior wing Anthony Norris with 26pts.
Just in case you're wondering... according to the National HS Sports Record Book, the most 100 point games in a season is 31 (accomplished by Houston Wheatley HS during the 1972-73 season). If any school besides Wheatley in possession of that record, Yates would probably pay it no mind. But don't you think for a second that those kids in 3rd Ward aren't gunning to have their name in the most neon of lights when this season is all said and done. Here are a couple of categories which should be threatened.
MOST 100 PT GAMES IN A SEASON
31 - Houston Wheatley HS 1972-73
MOST 100 PT GAMES IN A ROW
14 - Hobbs HS, New Mexico 1969-70
MOST PPG (by a Texas HS)
109.4 - Hardin Jefferson HS 1991-92
108.8 - San Antonio East Central HS 1994-95
108.7 - Houston Wheatley HS 1972-73
No matter what happens the rest of the season, during week 1, Yates HS has already stamped themselves amongst the All Time leaders in the following categories
MOST PTS IN A QUARTER
94 - Loudon HS, Tennessee vs Athens McMinn County Feb 1956
55 - Yates HS vs Sam Houston HS Nov 2009
54 - Peris HS, Cali vs Riverside Norte Vista, Cali Dec 1976
MOST PTS IN A HALF
158 - Loudon HS, Tenn vs Athens McMinn County Feb 1956
90 - Whitewater St John's, Cali vs Long Beach Youth Home Jan 1996
90 - Lovejoy HS, Illinois vs Whitt HS Feb 1972
89 - Yates HS vs Sam Houston HS Nov 2009
Saturday, November 21
WEEK OF NOV 15th - 21st!
VIP ROOM WILL BE UPDATED MONDAY am with McDonald's Texas Inv'l recap and more.
FRIDAY, NOV 20th
Last week I told you guys this year's McDonald's Texas Invitational would be the most balanced field in the history of the event. After the first day how many of us thought that Kingwood would have gone winless or neither of last year's finalist (Duncanville or San Antonio Madison) would make it into the Gold Division? If you all of those scenarios correctly, then you need to be in business. Meanwhile you can peek the brackets by visiting www.TexasInvitational.com. Plus the event has launched a twitter account where updates are provided accordingly.
Yesterday included Bellaire steamrolling past Pearland and Huntington, LA. They (and North Crowley) are the two favorites to play for the title on Saturday night. Other highlights included LaPorte getting shocked in their pool opener by Alief Taylor. However, the Bulldogs rebounded to blast SA Madison and forced a three way tie for first place - and went into the Gold Bracket on points . Junior pg Brandon Chapman drilled at three pointer to lift Marshall HS to a (61-60) win over Duncanville. Shai Fields scored (25pts) and Kevin Williams (17pts) heaved a 70 footer at the buzzer to push Pearland past Huntington, LA (60-57). Bush simply outplayed Kingwood (51-44) and appears to have shook off Tuesday's upset loss to LaMarque. They will square off against LaPorte in the first round @ 12pm.
OTHER NEWS!
Yates visits Sam Houston this evening. As you guys can tell, Sam Houston's head coach has been pretty mum since falling way short on his predictions against Wheatley the other night. Yates head coach Greg Wise was in the stands scouting Sam Houston that night when someone in the stands asked Wise how many points his Lions would win by on Friday. "As many as we can", replied Wise. Uh ohhh. Be sure to check out today's top games to see on the home page.
WEDNESDAY, NOV 18th
Da Magazine release date has been pushed back to Friday 12pm @ all the book store locations listed on the homepage. Also, since I'm so doggone tired and running on fumes from Da Magazine release, the return of TheBasketballShow.com has been pushed back to the Wednesday after Thanksgiving.
The regular season is off and running! Pretty much 95% of the teams in the area were in action last night, and while several lived up to the hype, there were others who folded like church chairs. For the past 3 years I have witnessed the annual grudge game between Port Arthur Memorial vs Beaumont Ozen. Well, once I got word from the printer that Da Mag would not be available on schedule, there's wasn't a lot of motivation to face that round trip drive alone. Therefore, I slid over to Studewood and checked out Bellaire vs Washington. Here's what I saw...
1Q: Bellaire won the opening tip and set the tone with a dunk by Sebastian Douglass. They never trailed in this game. More impressively was the fact that Bellaire was very aggressive on the interior. Texas pledge Sheldon McClellan worked the left side of the court and paced the Cards with 8pts in the first 8 mins. Texas A&M recruit Tobi Oyedeji connected on 3/4fgs to score 6pts, and the lead reached double digits (22-11) on a spin move by Western Kentucky bound Kene Anyigbo (6pts in 1Q) with just over a minute left in the quarter. As you can see, three big time D1 recruits scored 20 of the team's 24pts. Washington's star prospect Hyjji Thomas displayed his smoove stroke and was really fired up while providing 7pts. Football star William Waddell was inserted into the starting lineup and scored a couple inside moves but overall the team simply missed too many open shots and couldn't keep Bellaire off the glass.
Score - Bellaire (10/16fg, 1/3treys, 3/3ft) 24 Washington (6/17fg, 1/5treys) 13
2Q: The visitors increased the gap to 27-14 and at that very moment, I wrote myself a note "BTW players lookn dfeatd n da face". Fouls of frustration began to mount on the War Eagles. At the 5:00 mark, Waddell picked up his 3rd foul and had to take a seat. A minute later, Texas Tech signee Jamel Outler scored his first points (back to back 16 foot jumpers from just east of the right elbow), and the score was now getting ugly 33-16. Shortly afterwards, Washington's Nateese Jones got whistled for his 3rd foul as well. Meanwhile, Bellaire continued to be the aggressor with Anyigbo stepping up to take two charges defensively. Washington made a surge to end the half, but the momentum was hindered after Johnathan Evans' half court heave swished through the nets as the buzzer sounded.
Score - Bellaire (7/20fg, 1/4treys, 5/8ft) 20 Washington (5/14fg, 3/7treys, 6/8ft) 19
3Q: Within the first 120 ticks, Washington sliced the lead to 43-50 and the crowd was generating a bit of electricity. Jones connected on three huge trey balls in front of his team bench. However, Bellaire regrouped and proceeded to get the ball inside for 10fgs in the paint - one less than Washington's entire game total. With 2:30 left Outler was whistled for his 4th foul. During the closing minute, Thomas (9pts in 3Q) provided another spectacular play that I don't think I have ever seen a guard do at this level. He shot a three pointer from behind the top of the key, and missed. As the ball bounced back towards the free throw line, Thomas skied above the pack, grabbed the rebound and in same stride took one step and non chalantly dunked it home. The ball never touched the floor. Wow!
Score - Bellaire (13/20fg, 3/6treys, 2/4ft) 30 Washington (9/16fg, 4/7treys, 2/4ft) 25
4Q: Bellaire opened the final frame with a 12-0 jolt, highlighted by Oyedeji's dunk to reach their largest lead, 86-57 midway through the period. The rest of the way was simply formalities.
Score - Bellaire (6/13fg, 0/2treys, 4/10ft) 17 Washington (6/14fg, 0/4treys, 2/3ft) 14
B: Sheldon McClellan 22, Tobi Oyedeji 21, Kene Anyigbo 14, Jamel Outler 11
W: Hyjji Thomas 22, Nateese Jones 10
Note: I sat next to the official book keeper (a BTW student) and I noticed there were a couple occassions where she credited the wrong Bellaire player with made baskets. The home team is responsible for reporting the results to the local paper. Therefore, it should be easy to understand the newspaper's difference in point totals. Trust me, I know the difference between Anyigbo and Oyedeji.
THIS WEEK'S SUPER 16 SCORERS!
Pts
|
Player
|
High School
|
Opponent
|
41
|
Anthony Norris 6'7 w 2011
|
Sam Houston lost
|
Wheatley
|
41
|
Brandon Thompson 6'3 cg 2011
|
Worthing def
|
Lee
|
39
|
Brandon Peters 6'1 g 2010
|
Yates def
|
Dickinson
|
| 38 |
Rasheed Sulaimon 6'2 sg 2012
|
Stake Jesuit def
|
Cy Springs
|
36
|
Amos Olatayo (signed w/ SFA)
|
Elsik lost
|
Second Baptist
|
34
|
Leketrick Quinn 6'3 f 2010
|
Wheatley def
|
Sam Houston
|
33
|
Don Thomas 6'0 g 2010
|
Spring def
|
Nimitz
|
32
|
Joseph Young (signed w/ Providence)
|
Yates def
|
Dickinson
|
31
|
Darius Richardson (signed w/ UT Arlington)
|
Bush lost
|
LaMarque
|
31
|
DeAngelo Harrison 6'3 g 2011
|
Dulles def
|
Pasa Memorial
|
29
|
Byron Randle (signed w/ Sam Hstn State)
|
Friendswood lost
|
Clear Creek
|
| 29 |
Shaquille Cleare 6'8 pf 2012
|
The Village def
|
Beaumont Kelly
|
29
|
Ryan Manuel 6'3 wg 2011
|
FB Austin def
|
Terry
|
28
|
Odere Nweke 6'5 2011
|
Terry lost
|
FB Austin
|
27
|
Jeremy Laday 6'1 g 2010
|
Huntsville def
|
Lufkin
|
27
|
Maurice Wiltz (signed w/ Colorado St)
|
Stafford def
|
Waller
|
27
|
Tre Bennett 5'10 pg 2011
|
Milby lost
|
Clear Lake
|
OTHER NEWS!
I have a pocket full of props to a couple coaches around the area who raised a few eyebrows last night.
1. Coach Marcus Elder sat quietly and read all the smack talked by Sam Houston's head coach leading up to their opening game. Then, after I watched Wheatley play with their two ineligible players and still struggle heavily in their final scrimmage last Saturday, I failed to consider a very important fact - they were playing against Humble Christian Life and Bellaire HS. Aside from Yates, what team in Houston would NOT struggle against those guys, especially in back to back games? Wheatley's Elder didn't get swirled into the smack, he simply used the words to motivate the players, and I might need to take some credit as well when I wrongly predicted Sam Houston to win by at least 6pts. "I think it was the fact that you picked us to lose", laughed Elder. Wheatley won 108-68.
2. As we watched the boxing match Saturday night at a mutual friends custom built mansion, Coach Cedric Mason warned me that his LaMarque Cougars would kick plenty of butt this season. "We are the best team 4A behind Yates, and we ain't scared of them!" exclaimed Mason. My reply was simple, "If you are as good as you think, then you should be 1-0 after Tuesday night". Guess what? It's Wednesday, and LaMarque is indeed 1-0 after going on the road and knocking off #8 Bush (71-67). I wish there was a way I could re print Da Magazine.
3. Head coach Albert Thomas beat Kingwood at their own game. For three of the past four years, Elkins possesed the most talent and ended up getting outsmarted by the defensive minded Mustangs. Props are extended to the Knights, who can officially establish themselves as the city's most dangerous team when they play LaMarque HS on Friday. I wonder if it's safe to tell Elkins, "If you are as good as you think then you should be 2-0 late Friday night". Yeah, I'm laughing too.
4. How many times have you heard me say, "Sometimes it's the game before the game, or it can be the game after the game that truly defines the progress of a team"? Well, after St Thomas HS (despite 3 starters not in uniform until next month) pulled off an impressive home win over Jones HS two days ago, the Westside Wolves was waiting around the corner with a headache stick. Props to head coach Deon Williams for motivating his troops to come from behind and upset St Thomas (49-47).
5. Due to the fact that juniors Everett Pleasant and Chazz Carrington are preparing for this weekend's football clash against Katy HS, I really didn't give Atascocita much chance with 40% of their starting lineup missing. Head coach John Castles developed a heckuva game plan, and went on the road to knock off Klein Forest (60-58) who returned 9 lettermen.
After transferring from Northshore HS during the off season, promising D1 hopeful, Keynan Willis 6'8 f 2011 has been demoted to the junior varsity squad at Crosby HS. Maybe his services could have been used during Crosby's opening night defeat (56-38) at home against Magnolia. The grapevine tells me that one of the main reasons that were whispered as to why Willis left Northshore (who by the way beat Eisenhower 66-46) was because Northshore's tempo was a bit too slow, and there are some family members who just weren't willing to support head coach Joe Price. Well, it's amazing how this stuff works ain't it? It's even more amazing as to how some of you parents can raise your kid for 15, 16, or 17 years then all the sudden some virtual stranger can give your kid a box of speakers and a two piece chicken special on Tuesday - and next thing you know - he's being identified as a family member. Right now, today, I plead with you parents to implement yourselves into the equation. Visit this site today, www.thebbconnection.com and read some of the articles pencilled by Mr. Shepard. A couple years ago, he went through some of the exact things you parents are going though right now today. Hell, I don't have biological kids, so how in the world can I set here and try to tell you guys how to raise your kids? However, I am indeed a pro at directing traffic.
FRESHMAN TOURNAMENT
Christopher Walker (15pts), PJ Pane (15pts), and John Griffin (14pts) helped lead St Thomas past Episcopal (71-56) in the championship game of the St Pius Invitational held this past weekend. Cameron Williams scored a game high 26pts in the loss.
TUESDAY, NOV 17th
Thanks to all who volunteered, worked, or attended the Season Opener at St Thomas HS on last night. That was indeed a grand event which provided some very balanced and entertaining matchups - not to mention some unexpected results. Be sure to check out the recaps on the home page.
Meanwhile, top ranked Yates HS opened the regular season in full quest to break Wheatley HS record for the most 100pt games in a regular season. The Lions put up 140pts while yielding 81 to Dickinson HS last night. This is the second time in the past three years which Yates has opened the season with a 59pts or more win. The thing that makes this win so remarkable is the fact that Dickinson head coach Mike Tucker had many allies believing his team could (make that would) beat Yates. I'm gonna go on a limb and project that Dickinson players are the first ones to admit they had no clue Yates was "that" good. I tried to tell you guys, just like I tried to tell Dallas Kimball prior to the state tournament finals last season.
MONDAY, NOV 16th
Just like famed blues singer Betty Wright used to say, "Tonight is the Night". Yep, it's the regular season opener for public schools, and depending on which side of the fence you are down with (publics or privates), then tonight's triple header at St Thomas High School could make you happy or sad. I have today's preview listed on the home page, and it may be a huge surprise to some of you guys, but I am predicting a public school sweep. Also there will be a drawing for a family to receive a complete Thanksgiving Dinner (complimentary of the George McClellan Foundation) delivered to your house. This is a super idea, and it could save a couple tanks of gas for some lucky household. Entry forms will be available at the front table during the triple header.
Also, check out the RANKINGS room where in an effort to wet your whistle, I've listed the Top 10 teams regardless of classification. Of course "Da Magazine" has the complete Top 40 list, and that should paint plenty of huge targets on the backs of over-rated teams.
OTHER NEWS!
Sophomore pg LJ Rose put on a passing clinic this past weekend while leading Second Baptist to the championship of the St Thomas Classic. Mikhail McLean led Second Baptist in scoring every game and will be one of the state's most sought after players come Spring time. The Arizona Wildcats is one of three D1 schools who will be attending tonight's game to check out McLean.
On Friday, Wheatley fans got disappointing news that George Jackson 6'7 f and Robert Stokes 6'5 f have both been ruled NOT eligible to play this season. Both turned 19 years old prior to the mandated cut off of Sept 1st. That is a huge blow, but somewhat expected by many who are close to the team. Meanwhile, Humble Christian Life might be the destination of at least one of the players, and if so he (or they) will be playing with the prep school team which plays mainly a college / prep school schedule.
Yates head coach Greg Wise promised to not take his foot off the gas this season, but I didn't think he meant scrimmage games included. On Saturday, the top ranked Lions blasted Scarborough 182-32. More impressive is the rumor that no Yates player scored over 25pts.
Bellaire and Christian Life Center finally clashed and both teams lived up to the hype, but Bellaire successfully passed their first major test in the court of public opinion. Remember, this same Christian Life team ran the table at both Fall events in Houston and Dallas against 6 state ranked teams. Bellaire may be the only public team besides Yates who could beat Christain Life. So what does that say about Bellaire? You don't need to ask Mr. Owl the answer to that question. It's plain and simple, Bellaire is the best 5A team heading into the season. However, the reason there's so much doubt is because there's a coalition of coaches who are convinced that Bellaire doesn't play with the same deck of rules as they do. With that being said, envy and hatred bubbles the blood that runs through various veins. Is it right, heck no. Is it true? Can you handle the truth. See you guys at the gym tonight!
Saturday, November 14
WEEK OF NOV 8th - 14th!
SATURDAY, NOV 14th
The St Thomas HS Basketball Classic resumes today with the final round of games. I missed the hospitality room meal of gumbo and red beans / rice which were prepared by Rajun Cajun. However, that didn't take away from the semi final clash between St Thomas vs Second Baptist. For starters, St Thomas new head coach Danny Evans as well as starting pg Christian Sanders (19pts) were both at Second Baptist last season. Therefore, you and I both know they would have traded Thanksgiving for a win last night. It didn't happen. Unsigned senior Mikhail McLean (18pts) and LJ Rose (15pts) were clutch down the stretch for Second Baptist has they held off the home team 66-61. They advance into today's championship game (4pm) against Antonian HS based in San Antonio. For all of yesterday's results from this event, click into HS GAME RESULTS room on the left bar.
OTHER NEWS!
Ken "Lil Juice" Williams 5'10 cg 2013 opened his high school career with 24pts to lead Episcopal to a 87-66 win over St Thomas Episcopal (not to be confused with St Thomas mentioned in previous paragraph).
FRIDAY, NOV 13th:
Our prayers are flowed towards Bahamas native Frank Rutherford and his family after losing his father less than 48 hours ago. The funeral will be held in the Bahamas next week. Rutherford is also launching a 24hr Sports Radio Station which will be based in the Bahamas as well.
Rivals.com released their Top 100 high school teams and Houston boasts two schools in the Top 50. Yates sits at #4 while Bellaire is #50. Once again, Humble Christian Life has been snubbed of another national rankings list. Locally, you guys know how they dominated the Super 16 Extravaganza before traveling up to Dallas the following week and crushing three of DFW's top five teams to make a helluva statement. Honestly, I can understand as to how these guys are making the error of not listing the local private school. For starters, the school has been playing 5th year players along with their varsity team. That's like having cake and eating it too. Well, this season the school is making effort to comply with many requests - not mix the grown men with the young adults. Obviously, the news hasn't traveled nor been circulated through the ranks quick enough. Therefore the jacket remains on their backs.
Daymeon Dotson 6'3 w 2012 has been cleared but Wesley Afolayan 6'8 pf 2010 has been ruled ineligible to play basketball at Yates HS. However, he plans to appeal the decision to the UIL. Today is the day that 5th Ward fans have been waiting for. The eligibility fate of George Jackson 6'7 pf 2010 and Robert Stokes 6'5 wf 2010 should be learned, and already Sam Houston HS head coach is spitting some choice words no matter the outcome. "We not worried about them at all. We're kicking their @#$ Tuesday night". Uh-oh, now I know it's basketball season!
OTHER NEWS!
Be sure to check out GAME RESULTS room (left bar) where we will began posting various results from action around the area. In order to help fuel this engine, don't hesitate to email results and notes from your game to rcs@usa.com . I tell you guys all the time - if you don't want to market your own kid you raised for 16, 17, 18 years, then why in the hell would you expect a person you barely know to do so? If indeed it takes a village, then I say - get a hammer.
In a clash of area titans, Bellaire and Christian Life will square off in a scrimmage Saturday 10am. Also, all coaches / schools participating in Saturday's scrimmage at DeKaney HS should contact assistant coach Wilson regarding their start times. RCS Sports is not affiliated with that scrimmage, and that shouldn't be taken the wrong way. I just don't want people looking at me sideways if I'm not in the building during that event. No way I'm missing that Bellaire game in the morning.
Tomball Concordia Christian knocked off St Pius 50-43 for the second time this season.
Before catching that awesome overtime football game between Atascocita vs Chavez, I stopped by St Thomas HS yesterday afternoon and before rewinding some of the action, allow me to be straight up and say something that most media guys share amongst each other all the time, yet don't feel comfortable talking about it publicly because they could come off as greedy, etc. I ain't greedy, but I do take pride in eating good food. St Thomas HS hospitality room is always on point with some good grub. Some tournaments you already know to stop and eat before getting there because it's about to be cold pizza-ville. St Thomas boosters prepare a different meal each day. Last night was bar be que ribs, sausage, brisket (the kind so good no sauce was needed) was the main course. Sorry for making you guys hungry, so lets get back to the tournament.
Big Aaron Durley 6'8 c 2012 powered his way to 16pts to lift St Thomas over Lutheran North (63-53). Nevin Johnson 6'4 wf 2011 was nearly a one man band providing 26pts in defeat. When my FALL FRESHMAN RANKINGS were released in September, a kid named Justin Jackson 6'4 sg (HCYA) was listed in the top ten. Well, the season is off and running (for privates) and with John Caleb Sanders sidelined until next month with a leg injury, Jackson is the team's most potent perimeter threat. Yesterday against beefy Dallas based Argyle Liberty Christian, the Reggie Miller resembling shooter dropped 5 treys and finished with a game high 25pts in the win. Looks like that 2013 class might be pretty doggone good. Later I checked out Second Baptist pull away from the same Argyle team for a 55-41 win. Mikhail McLean 6'7 f 2010 went for 16pts in that win. Julien Person 6'5 f 2011 made a nice splash with 13p/ 11r. LJ Rose 6'2 pg 2012 scored 11pts as he went above and beyond the call of duty to get teammates open looks. By the way, the Person kid also had a double double (15p/10r) the other night. This afternoon (2pm) Second Baptist squares off against HCYA, and the winner plays St Thomas at 8pm. For complete schedule, check out GAME RESULTS room!
Former Westbrook HS star Golder Corner is now the head coach at Logos Prep in Sugarland. He has Seven Lakes HS transfer Jahmari Gordon 6'2 g 2012 who has posted 29, 20, and 34pts in his first three games.
Former Madison HS legend Sean Gay has joined the staff at Northland Christian.
THURSDAY, NOV 12th:
My head is spinning at how my folk at the Hstn Chron accidentally ommitted 12 of the D1 signees from yesterday. Well, the list of the 24 inklings are posted in the RANKINGS room (located on left bar).
OTHER NEWS!
In case you were wondering, the basketball top games to see and predictions will return on the weekend (Sunday). Don't panic, I got you covered like a blanket.
Private school game took place on Tuesday, and Lutheran North opened their season against Northeast Christian (located in Kingwood). Former Beaumont Legacy Christian star Chris Patereau 6'4 wg 2011 proved he has indeed improved into a serious D1 recruit. Lutheran North star Nevin Johnson played roughly 5 mins after getting hit with one tech for dunking in warmups, and another for slamming hands on the court. Meanwhile, NE Chr won the game 85-30.
In scrimmage action on yesterday afternoon, one of the spectators hit me up with the results of the Yates vs Ft Bend Austin matchup. Hope I don't spook the Dickinson HS team (Yates' opening day opponent) but the Lions are holding true to their word of not taking the pressure off nobody this season. After the first quarter the score was 30-2, you don't have to ask who was ahead. Although the clock was reset after each of the four periods, the composite final ended up being 122-36. Meanwhile, Dickinson HS coach phoned me with a serious belief his team will shock each and every one of you "Gator-haters" when they open the season against the nation's #6 ranked Lions. I tell you one thing in a spiritual sense, David better be able to toss one helluva rock....
If you though that was something, I got more smack. Washington HS players are issuing a stern warning to Bellaire HS to not be surprised when they come over and get upset on Tuesday night (7:30pm). "I can't wait to see the word WOW beside our (game) results on the next morning", predicted Washington head coach Vincent Grayson. The two teams played three times last season with Washington coming as close as two possessions in the final outcome. "They aint got no chemsitry", stated one of the Washington players.
Northshore HS will be hosting Sterling, Woodlands, and Aldine in a scrimmage this afternoon (4pm).
SUMMER BALL NEWS!
Registration has begun for the SPRING ICE BREAKER (March 19-21). And once again this year's event will take place the weekend after the State Tournament. For those who register early, you get the luxury of picking at least one of your opponents (based on availability). Also, we've simplified the registration form to exclude all that player info that many of you guys have long been reluctant to provide. To request a form, send email to rcs@usa.com .
The grapevine tells me that two local event organizers are going head to head in an effort to compete for teams on two upcoming dates. Clyde Jackson's group annually holds an event in December. The Houston Hoops is on the scene with 15 dates and one just happened to fall on Jackson's date. The two programs are even clashing over who will use the same proposed location. Then, the Hoops blasted an email charging only $100 for all teams. So what does the GCBC respond with? Well, they found one of the Hoops' events in the Spring and are going head to head with that one - with announced entry fees of only $60. Sounds like an old fashioned price war. You guys might be playing free in a minute.
After last week Nike Elite Youth Basketball meeting, the scouting team will now be recognized as Nike EYB Field Reps which includes a heavier workload as well. .
WEDNESDAY, NOV 11th:
Two nights ago Kene Anyigbo posted a message on his personal social page regarding signing a letter of intent on Wednesday. Well sure enough a couple D1 coaches saw that posting, and immediately began making calls and assumptions as to where the strong power foward would be headed. As expected, this morning Kene signed with Western Kentucky and became the 23rd senior to pledge his allegiance to a D1 school this Fall. This gives Bellaire three D1 signees on today Tobi Oyedeji to Aggieville, Jamel Outler to Texas Tech (most of any school in the area) in addition to another Big 12 pledge in future Longhorn, Sheldon McClellan.
OTHER NEWS!
Be sure to check the home page for the preview of the McDonald's Texas Invitational. College coaches will receive a similar version via email with player descriptions and notes.
HICKS CHICKS
After doing a drive by at Strake Jesuit, I opened the regular season last night checking out the showdown between Westbury Christian and Bellaire. At first, I considered myself simply showing support for both head coaches after they have supported RCS Sports in our minimal efforts towards girls basketball. Then, after watching the closely fought game, I was actually entertained the entire second half. No team held more than a 5pt lead. WCS held a 1pt lead during the closing ticks but Bellaire's freshman pg stole the rock and dashed in for the game winning layup as the buzzer sounded. The WCS fans were buzzing over the fact that one of the Bellaire boys' siblings officiated the game, but in all fairness, he did a super job at being about as non biased as he could be considering the circumstances. Bottom line, if WCS made fts and protected the rock on that last possession, Bellaire would have been 0-1 this morning.
TUESDAY, NOV 10th:
HCYA defeated St Thomas to win the championship of the Charlie Thomas Classic held this past weekend at University of St Thomas. I have normally attended at least one game at this event. However, this year, the event operator failed to supply me with schedule or any other pertinant info. Thus, I didn't even know it was taking place until after it was overwith. I keep telling you guys to stop taking media or exposure for granted. At the same time, no way I would have made that final game considering Maze feat. Frankie Beverly was in concert on the same night. Are you kidding me? Maze is the equivalent of the Rolling Stones to some of you guys. They don't have to record an album for 15 years yet still pack every single venue.
But thanks to St Thomas coaching staff, I do have a linescore of the game.
HCYA 51 ST THOMAS 41
H: Oscar Guerrero 18, Justin Jackson 8, Reid Burke 8, Irvin Mendez 8
S: Christian Sanders 17, Kingsley McGowen 8
Note: HCYA committed only 4 turnovers Also let it be known that Air Force bound Chase Kammerer was held to only 4pts while fellow frontcourt members Aaron Durley and Jeremy King did not score a single point for St Thomas. However, I will give Durley credit for scoring 18pts vs St Pius. More importantly, HCYA was without leading scorer, John Caleb Sanders could expected to miss at least the next month or so after doctors discovered a dozen hairline fractures in his foot. Wow!
Also this past weekend, Westbury Christian and Second Baptist opened the season with 3 straight wins at the Antonian Tip Off Classic. WCS beat Corpus John Paul, Bishop Dunne, and Austin St Michaels.
Well, we are less than a week before the season opener kicks off. The triple header at St Thomas HS is without a doubt the best bang for your buck because you guys get to check out 3 evenly matched games for only $5.
5:30 St Pius vs Lamar
7pm Second Baptist vs Alief Elsik
8:30 St Thomas vs Jones
Wednesday marks the first day 12th graders may officially sign letters of intent to colleges. This is always a great time of year, as many parents will be celebrating the fact that their gambles have paid off. Gambles? Cmon now, do you guys really want me to conduct a study of how many parents did NOT save for their kid's college? Okay then, that's why it's such a risk. But for some 22 households, if there was some savings, this is a good chance for all signing student athletes to upgrade your holiday gift requests to possibly a new set of wheels or another computer (that you will surely need in college)
Wednesday's signings will kick off at 8:10am when Leslee Smith puts the pen to the paper (signing with SMU) at the Christian Life Center Academy campus located near Bush Airport. At 11am, Bellaire's Tobi Oyedeji and Jamel Outler will ink with Texas A&M and Texas Tech respectively. Things will wrap up at 4pm, when Darrius Curry (Stratford HS) will have a signing party at League America. He's signing with UTEP.
OTHER NEWS!
I made a drive down the street to Northshore HS and check out a couple minutes of scrimmage action between Northshore, Port Arthur Memorial, Nimitz, and Klein Collins. A couple of quick observations include Jacoby Harrison 6'6 pf 2011 is indeed the "Randy Collins" of the junior class. He was writing prescriptions in the paint. PA Memorial was without floor general Shaq White 5'10 pg 2010 (on football field), and I'm convinced the only reason Ozen HS (their opening night opponent) should be within two touchdowns of the Titans is IF the football team wins their playoff opener this weekend. By the way, Shaq took an official visit to UT-Arlington last week, and the grapevine tells me he has indeed committed to the Mavericks. Teammate, Wendell Pierre 6'1 g (PA Memorial HS 2010) has committed to Tyler JC, per his father.
Yesterday was one I can hardly wait to forget. Not one, but both laptops crashed - crazy aint it? Don't even ask...
But anyway, I'm stripped of dozens of un backed files, and I'll get over it - one day. But meanwhile, Da Magazine is at the printer and although I'm hyped at how much instumental material you guys are getting this year, I'm even more impressed with the Front Cover. First of all, you guys already know that I have the best graphic tandem in the business. Nothing comes close to Sandra and Rod. But I will post the Front Cover on tomorrow, and then you guys will see exactly what I'm talking about. Plus, I have even better news. The publications will be available in most Border's, Barnes & Nobles, and Waldenbooks Stores in the Houston area. However, those locations won't have them until December 1st which means you must grab one from various locations which will be listed on the front page over the next couple days. When will Da Magazine be released? Monday, Nov 16th copies will be available at St Thomas HS (Season Opener Triple Header) starting at 5pm!
As you read the following, go ahead and play that theme music from the Godfather in your mind. The matchups have been set for the Lucas Holiday Xplosion which will take place Dec 28-29th @ Campbell Center. Four local high schools will take on a quartet of national powers. The last time something of this magnitude took place at the Campbell Center was two years ago at the "Houston vs The Nation". Houston teams won 9 out of 11 matchups highlighted by Yates sweek of Oak Hill and St Patrick's. The Holiday Xplosion is a platform for our local teams to pick up where they left off and continue the saga. "The Nation" must haven't learned their lesson?
Dec 28th
4pm Humble Christian Life vs Mount Zion (NC)
5:30 Atascocita vs Atlanta Norcross (GA)
7pm Strake Jesuit vs Dallas Prestonwood (TX)
8:30 Bellaire vs Memphis White Station (TN)
Dec 29th
3:30 Mount Zion (NC) vs Atascocita
5pm Atlanta Norcross (GA) vs Strake Jesuit
6:30 Dallas Prestonwood (TX) vs Bellaire
8pm Memphis White Station (TN) vs Humble Christian Life
ATTN! HIGH SCHOOL COACHES!
If you are interested in having a few copies of Da Magazine delivered to your school to sell as a fundraiser, then send an email to rcs@usa.com. You guys would be surprised as to how well these things move from the concession stand or front door of games.
If any of you guys have room, Sam Houston HS is seeking to travel to a varsity scrimmage on Saturday. Email coach Peterson with the good news, dpeters1@houstonisd.org
Friday, November 6
WEEK OF NOV 1st - 7th!
FRIDAY, NOV 6th!
As you guys know, we have been in the lab in straight hustle mode getting Da Magazine fine tuned to ensure another well received publication to the community. Thanks for the patience.
Meanwhile here are some of the topics that have transpired over the past few days...
Recent Humble Christian Life grad Latavious Williams was drafted in the first round by the NBADL Tulsa affiliate. Williams had committed to Memphis, but later opted to pursue a pro option out of high school. To date, this will be his first day job netting between $50k - $60 this season.
Speaking of 2009 stars, the grapevine tells me that Ray Turner (Jones HS 2009) is facing NCAA eligibility issues which is keeping him from the court at Texas A&M. On the flipside, I've heard of these types of situations being substitued as a back, knee problem listed under "injury report" to keep the media from blowing stuff out of proportion. I tell you one thing... once Turner does put on a uniform, he'll slice right into someones playing time almost immediately.
Lutheran North has hired Phil Marucci as their new head coach. He comes from the East Coast, and the cupboard still has some talent including Nevin Johnson 6'6 wf 2011 who is expected to make waves at the private school.
As for the Baytown Christian situation, Josh Baillio is expected to be named head coach of an independent team (not to be confused with the varsity team) and they will include a couple of the ex Lutheran North players while playing a separate schedule. Meanwhile, St Thomas HS wasted no time finding a replacement for Baillio. This week they hired Cedric Ward as the new basketball assistant coach. Ward is well respected in the hoop circles. He splashed onto the scene while working under John Lucas and coached the Houston Select 13u team which won the AAU National Championship this past summer.
Word is expected to be handed down regarding the eligibility status on Wheatley's George Jackson and Robert Stokes. Plus, the glass still appears half empty regarding Wesley Afolayan suiting up for Yates HS, especially in time for the season opener. Additionally, the eligibility hearing for UTEP recruit Darius Curry and sibling Damion Curry will be held Nov 16th, a day before Stratford HS opens the regular season.
SCRIMMAGE ACTION THIS WKND!
On Saturday (Nov 7th), there will be a couple scrimmage games around the area. Here's a couple..
9am Bryan, Jersey Village @ Elsik HS
10am Cy Lakes @ College Park
10am Langham Creek, Humble @ The Woodlands
10am Cy Springs, Klein Oak, Lutheran South @ Waller
10am Lufkin, Marshall, Hudson @ Longview
7pm Kountze @ Beaumont Central
On Monday, I will post more games for next week.
OTHER NEWS!
Westbury Christain and Second Baptist are currently playing in the Antonian Tip Off Classic held in San Antonio. Although the event starts today, here is Saturday's Nov 7th schedule (involving Houston area teams):
9:30am Second Bapt vs Austin St Michael's
11am Westbury Christian vs Dallas Bishop Dunne
3:30 Second Bapt vs Laredo St Augustine
5pm Westbury Chr vs Austin St Michael's
PrepNation.com has released their annual pre season high school rankings, and Yates HS debuts at #6 nationally. Bellaire HS didn't make the Top 25, but they are listed as #5 in the Southwest Region of the country. Meanwhile ESPN Rise has released their Top 50 high school teams for the season, and Bellaire is indeed listed at #28 in the country while Yates is #9. I spoke with former USA TODAY writer Chris Lawlor who writes for ESPN / Scouts Inc, and wondered why Humble Christian Life was not listed. After letting me know he didn't comprise the rankings for ESPN / Rise this year, Lawlor suggested the reason could be that most people around the country still believe that CLC boasts 5th year players, etc. After I explained they don't have any this year, he understood and wondered why anyone from the school hadn't circulated or promoted that fact? Good question. But guess what, I'm doing it write now, and that's why I made the call and asked the question in the first place. Christian Life has only two Houston area players on roster (double the amount that Findlay prep has from their home base of Las Vegas). After the blitz CLC put on many Houston and Dallas teams during October fall events, there's no reason in the world to not be listed among the nation's top 30 teams at the worst case scenario. In my opinion, the only reason Bellaire ain't ranked much higher is because head coach Bruce Glover and his program has so many undercover haters who openly blast Bellaire for having power teams in recent years, but has routinely failed to advance past the 3rd round of the playoffs. That's a valid point, but it doesn't take two-face-ness to voice that fact. Hell, do like I do, I say it right in their face and at the end of the day, the opinion retains respect. Then again, it's basketball season, so two-faced folks are back in style again.
The HICKS CHICKS room has been updated with the first installment of the season of updates. A super event with the very top private school girls teams in the state is taking place at Houston Christian HS located around the corner from League America facility.
TUESDAY, NOV 3rd!
Today is a holiday. Not election day, not a real holiday - my birthday. Therefore, you guys know I plan to spend about as much time in front of the computer as you would on your bday. With that being said, let's roll with a few kibbles and bits on dirt which should keep you guys texting amongst each other for at least 24 more hours.
Randy Collins 6'5 pf (LaPorte HS 2010) has committed to Sam Houston State University. The news dropped yesterday evening as Collins attended a college game at nearby San Jacinto to support good friend Adriam Morales (3pts). This is a huge coup for the Bearkats, who recently hooked Collins' longtime summer ball teammate Byron Randle 6'2 cg (Friendswood HS 2010). Collins has all the skills that could warrant All Southland Conference in at least three of his four collegiate years to come. He becomes the 21st local senior to pledge D1 thus far. The top 4 unsigned seniors heading into signing day are:
Brandon "Snap" Peters 6'1 (Yates HS)
Jason Carter 6'7 (Humble Christian Life Center)
Mikhail McLean 6'7 (Second Baptist)
Kene Anyigbo 6'6 (Bellaire HS)
The grapevine tells me that Wesley Afolayan 6'8 pf 2010 who check into Jack Yates HS last week, may require a UIL hearing to gain eligibility. If so, this could put the big fella's chances in serious jeopardy because if there's any school who don't want any drama this season - it's Yates, especially their principal. On the flip side, Greg Wise is knocking 'em out like Philly Phillies slugger Chase Utley and has a streak of like 8 straight approvals when it comes to transfers or move ins, streaking all the way back to when the Fort Bend ISD admin created a stir regarding his own friggin son (Nic) being eligible to play for his dad entering his sophomore season. Nic ended up guiding Kingwood to the state tournament twice. Actually, when I think about it, Nic could be the state's best ever player who attended four PUBLIC high schools in four years (Cinco Ranch, Hightower, Westfield, & Kingwood). Currently, he is the face of this year's Arizona Wildcat team. FYI, his younger brother, Dondre Wise is also a member of this year's Arizona squad after playing at Pima JC (AZ) the last two seasons. You can rest assure that papa Wise will be flying the frequent skies every chace he gets in effort to check out his set of young lads duplicate their feat when the two starred at Kingwood HS.
Speaking of Wise, he was all smiles last week after RCS Sports presented him with a $4,500 check to help with funeral expenses of best friend Charles Phillips. One of our avid supporters stepped up and assisted with the donation just as some of you guys did when Houston Suns Elite coach Kwasi Johnson passed a couple months ago. I guess this officially propels myself into an official Philantropist, and I embrace that title with open arms. Thanks to you guys for coming through once again! More importantly, the warmth that flows through your soul upon handing over those checks is one of the best feelings in the world, I promise it is.
OTHER NEWS!
I've been sitting on the news since Thursday. Five doggone days just waiting on the phone call, but it never came. I even called the school this past Friday to confirm, and one of the administrators did oblige. "I am not at liberty to speak about that at this time," stated head coach Brian Lisbony. "But I have a meeting in an hour, and should have more (news) later". So now it's Tuesday, and after I phoned the school again yesterday, left message, and got no reply. That is the equivalent of no comment, and qualifies as appropriate time to proceed with the process of informing you guys. At least two of the Bahammas sophomores named in the recent Lutheran North-gate has been seen walking the halls (toting tablet, pen, books, etc) of Baytown Christian School. Don't worry, I've already checked, it's true. Also, the gravevine tells me that one of the player's former coaches could be hired at the private school this week. I bet my phone rings after this...
Thursday, October 29
WEEK OF OCT 25th - OCT 31st
FRIDAY, OCT 30th
Various summer coaches nationally suffered a blow after yesterday's ruling by the NCAA which will prevent D1 schools from subscribing to 1-900 numbers, hiring high school or summer coaches at their camps, or paying fees for "recruiting services" operated or affiliated with summer basketball programs. The NCAA considers that practice as colleges funnelling money to prospects or to the coaches who influence these kids. As always, expect many of the street savvy summer coaches to either set up shop under (wife, sister, daughter, brother, uncle, cousin) assumed name. Also expect the NCAA to have colleges to submit their entire subscriber base of the past 3 years, and IF all the sudden Jane Doe Sports appears as a new subscriber on 20 new schools, it will be a blazing red flag with compliance and NCAA crime dogs. Ohhh man, this cat / mouse game is about to get really hot! Another thing to expect is for guys like Glen Smith (MetroPlex Hoops) to possibly come up like a phat azz kat. How? Because it Clark Francis (HoopScoop) can have Tim Miller (who has direct affiliation to recruits) as his Texas Editor, then why can't Smith have Tony Johnson (Dallas Mustangs) as his South Oak Cliff correspondent, Mitch Malone (Fort Worth Blue Chips) as his Fort Worth correspondent, Ervin "Big E" Davis (Dallas Showtyme) as the Central Dallas correspondent, and Ray Forsett (Team Texas) as his Arlington correspondent. Since D1 colleges will no longer be allowed to subscribe to those Dallas area guys, legally - then how much revenues do they push into the pockets of MetroPlex Hoops if they pursuade the same schools attempting to recruit their players toward subscribing to Glen Smith? In return, Smith pays each, let's say $500-$1,000 for writing one article per month (FYI, the going rate for writing articles is $30-$100 per article). In the eyes of many, this "play" would be about as legal as Miller working for Francis. So, it's in the NCAA's hands - although the game is far from over, someone appears to be in check, but who's move is it?
Additionally, the NCAA ruled that nonscholastic men's basketball events may not be held on D1 campuses? At this time I'm awaiting clarification on that particular ruling to understand whether it means ALL events including camps, or simply tournaments. If camps are included, then it threathens July events such as LeBron James Camp, Reebok All American Camp, and Southwest Invitational Camp which have been held on college campuses. It would also threathen younger camps such as the Joe Keller phenom camp in San Diego, and the Clay Dade middle school event which was held on the University of Kentucky this past summer, as well as the International Middle School Combine held at University of Houston. Oh yes, this set of rulings could touch all angles of the game. Therefore, it'll be enough nervous folk to go around and then some. But wait! Street savvy-ness has its rewards (potentially) or at least it should. Over the past 48 hours, I personally know three or four event operators who have went or planned to back date their contracts which would make their current agreements with D1 facilities appear to be pre existing for multiple years. This would enable them exempt from the new rules, ya dig. However, it would take a conspiring effort on both sides to backdate paperwork. So, if it's worth it to the college employee, then it's their job not mine. Also, if the NCAA finds a college coach in contempt with any of the new rules, it would result in a major violation and suspension of at least 1 game. See there, I told you guys this was about to get good.
THURSDAY, OCT 29th
Around 6pm, Johnathan Greenaway unleashed a text to various friends and family to announce that Leslee Smith 6'8 f (Christian Life 2010) had committed to Southern Methodist University. The Virgin Islands native had confirmed he was down to SMU and Western Kentucky. Then, he took a visit to the Texas based school a couple weeks ago, and obviously liked it enough to apply serious consideration towards playing for head coach Matt Doherty. Folks, I ain't gonna lie, this is a huge pick up for SMU. They haven't landed a recruit from Houston this good since ex Nimitz HS star, Derrick Roberts from the 2004 class. Smith is currently ranked #78 nationally by ESPN.com.
OTHER NEWS!
With Leslee Smith's commitment to SMU, he becomes the 20th area senior to pledge to a D1 school this Fall. Just in case you were wondering, by the end of October in 2008 there were 26 committed seniors, and in 2007 at the same point there were 20 twelvth graders locked in. So, this may be a snooze call for many of the unsigned guys out there who are wavering between schools. Do your homework, and if by chance you are in doubt - a very good website (operated by a local parent who's been there and done that) to check out is www.bbconnection.com .
The grapevine tells me that Sam Houston State has rescinded their offer to Cedric Jones 6'4 wf (LaPorte HS 2010). The move could cost the school ground on their efforts to nab his teammate Randy Collins 6'5 f (LaPorte HS 2010) who still has an offer on the table from the Bearkats. Only time will tell.
Remember last month I gave you guys the heads up that the NCAA would be voting on a batch of proposals which could prevent colleges from subscribing to "Ghost services" aka underground shops set up by some of the summer coaches in return for granting access to recruit their players. I really didn't have much of a beef with the practice, until I realized the amount of colleges who subscribed to RCS Sports had decreased by nearly 50%. Although the big budget schools have enough loot to keep most folks calm, it's the mid and low major schools that have to sometimes make a choice as to who and where to spend their restricted dollar. If you were a college coach and really liked a prospect. Then, after calling him several times, you make no progress. Finally, his summer coach contacts you and puts the kid on the phone with you, but before hanging up the summer coach reminds you of how easy it can be to get the kid on the phone in the future IF you subscribed to his "service". What would you do? Exactly my point. However, as of May 2010 (when the rule goes into effect) pending today's NCAA vote results, the question could switch to what would you NOT do? For more on the NCAA proposals, check out ESPN's Dana O'Neil's article from yesterday http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/columns/story?columnist=oneil_dana&id=4601355 .
WEDNESDAY, OCT 28th
The RCS Sports Season Opener on Monday, Nov 16th has three doses of good news!
1. Thanks to Marjorie Allen, the George McClellan Foundation has came aboard as the presenting partner of the triple header.
2. Thanks to Alan Helfman, Helfman River Oaks Chrysler has hopped aboard as a sponsor
3. St Pius X High School has replaced Lutheran North on the schedule.
All games are at St Thomas HS....
5:30 St Pius vs Houston Lamar
7pm Second Baptist vs Alief Elsik
8:30 St Thomas vs Houston Jones
ATTN HS COACHES!
Aldine HS is seeking a varsity scrimmage on preferrably on Nov 9th or Nov 10th. If interested, contact Coach Zeke Smith esmith4@aldine.k12.tx.us
OTHER NEWS!
Dave Purpura informed media friends that he is leaving Athletes Connection next week, and has accepted a gig in Newark, OH at "The Advocate" newspaper. Newark is his hometown, and Dave formally worked there before moving to Houston. Congrats Dave!
Yesterday, we broke the news regarding Yates picking up what could be their missing piece of the puzzle. Well, on Tuesday, Sam Houston HS has added their third and fourth new face to the program. You guys already knew about Anthony Norris 6'7 wg 2011 who moved in from Hobbs, NM. Well, whadduya know... his homeboy Samuel Segrist 6'1 pg 2011 has moved to Houston (his mom's job actually relocated her to H-Town) and enrolled at Sam Houston. On top of that, Ray Frauston 6'1 g 2010 transferred in from Aldine HS. It appears that between those two, Sam Houston may have solved their point guard woes. One thing's for certain, they host Wheatley (Nov 17th) and Yates (Nov 20th) during the first week of the season. They might need head coach Demarcus Peterson to suit up and help put out the fire that's about to be blazing after facing all that pressure.
The grapevine tells me that Fort Bend Austin HS could receive a 6'8 Christmas present shortly before the season starts. If so, expect a near uprising from other coaches in that district. Stay tuned.
TUESDAY, OCT 27th
Just when I thought this would be a thin week of news, it truckload of dirt hits the ground. Where do I start first???
With all the drama surrounding Lutheran North and the influx of transfers being declared ineligible, the grease hit the skillet on yesterday when head coach Walter Yates Jr was terminated. Yep, I said the same thing, WOW! Walt and his wife were married a couple months ago, and are expecting their first child together. I have spoken with Walt Jr, and I wish to honor his family's request for privacy at this time. Since I have a pre existing relationship with the family (meaning, I knew them before RCS Sports came into existence), I will do my best to oblige. But before rumors get out of hand, I will share a couple of facts. Lawsuit has been filed on behalf of the kids who have been deemed ineligible, and the school discovered that Walt Jr's name was included in the lawsuit. Come to find out, Walt had no idea his name was in that lawsuit. This is a serious legal matter in which Lutheran North administration had no choice but to severe ties with their coach. Also, Lutheran North's non district schedule has been scrapped. So if you have a scheduled non district game against them, you might want to verify with the administration.
The RCS Sports season opener @ St Thomas HS (Nov.16, 2009) had Lutheran North playing Lamar HS. Also, on that card is Alief Elsik vs Second Baptist followed by Jones HS vs St Thomas. A triple header for only $5 a person.
However, with the reason news, we have already secured a replacement team for Lutheran North. It will be announced to you guys on tomorrow, once the ink dries.
OTHER NEWS!
After I gave you guys the warning shot on yesterday, Drew Parker 6'2 pg (LaPorte HS) went ahead and pulled the trigger last night and committed to University of North Carolina-Greensboro. This is nice pick up for UNCG, and a win for Parker who has become one of the most "hated against" point guards in the state. Sure the jumper aint where it needs to be. But neither was ex Willowridge HS star, Brandon Johnson (San Diego) or ex Kingwood HS star Trumaine Johnson. Bottom line is the kid has a point guard mentality, he doesn't talk sensless smack, and he knows how to get the ball into the post (which seems like a lost art nowadays). Plus, he passed most tests tossed in front of him while playing with the Houston Clippers coached by his dad of the same name. The floor general wanted you guys to know why he chose UNCG. "They have been recruiting me the hardest". He took a visit to the campus last week and that played a huge role as well. "The visit was an awesome experience, and I know I have an opportunity to start and make an immediate impact as a freshman. Playing in the Coliseum in front of 24,000 people doesn't hurt either". Actually the school decided to move all home games to Greensboro Coliseum which can seat up to 24k, but is sectioned off to accomodate 11,687 during UNCG games - an easy amount to sell out for the Spartan fans.
On Monday, Wesley Afolayan 6'8 sr enrolled at Jack Yates HS. From my understanding, his family has moved into the school zone, and after sitting out 15 school days, he will be eligible to participate in extra curricular activities. Many of you guys may remember Wesley from playing at Kashmere HS for the past two seasons where he lead the team in rebounding and dunks, of course. The Compton, CA native is a tough minded power forward who embraces physical activity. That's good news for Yates, since current post Alex Davis 6'8 sr aint' really known for letting his elboys loose. On the flip side, it's bad news for Kashmere and new coach Adrian Caldwell. With Wesley, the team would have competed for 2nd place. Without him they will fight hard to make the playoffs. But at the same time, if a kid doesn't wanna be in your program then let him go. If you have to beg 'em to come (back), eventually you'll have to beg 'em to stay.
Props to Kevin Williams 6'0 pg (Pearland HS 2010) and Waylen Silverand 6'6 f (Hightower HS 2010) after both fared well at the National Future 150 Camp held in Atlanta earlier this month. Silverland was selected to the Top 40 game, and led all scorers with 16pts while Williams was chosen for the Top 20 game.
MONDAY, OCT 26th
The news will be a bit on the thin side this week as we hustle to complete Da Magazine. One reader emailed and asked why we don't simply complete the publication and have it on the shelves in October. Good question, but with a staff of only 2 people, we're kinda like the Keebler Elves in the sense that you "Can't Rush Richness". Besides, Da Magazine will be one of the very few in the nation that has players listed at the correct high schools and pretty good projections based on seeing 95% of the teams / kids during the Fall. Plus, there are some additional surprises in store for readers this year. Trust me, you're gonna "luv me long time" after this year's edition hits the shelves. Just stay tuned!
The UIL will vote today on a proposal (1202.a.3) which could allow teachers / administrators of 20 + years and retired coaches such as Jackie Carr, Walter Yates Sr, or even Clarence Stubblefield a chance to serve as assistant coaches without having to work in the classroom. Also, another proposal would permit student teachers to join coaching staffs. If approved, both would take effect August 2010.
OTHER NEWS!
Jersey Gates 6'2 sg (Navasota HS 2010) and Byron Randle 6'2 g (Friendswood HS) visited Sam Houston State on Sunday. Many of you guys may remember Gates from this past summer with the Houston Lynx program while Randle had already committed to the Bearkats last month.
The grapevine tells me that Leslee Smith 6'8 pf (Christain Life 2010) should be making it official for Western Kentucky any day now. Smith visited SMU this past weekend.
Also, with the next week or so, expect Drew Parker 6'2 pg (LaPorte HS 2010) to pick UNC-Greensboro over Cal Poly and Montana State.
If and when those two decisions are made, the area's top five unsigned seniors will be as follows...
1. Brandon "Snap" Peters 6'1 (Yates HS) offers include Western Kentucky, North Texas, Boise State, TCU, and Memphis
2. Randy Collins 6'5 (LaPorte HS) offers include Texas A&M Corpus Christi, Sam Houston State, Lamar, HBU, and Central Arkansas
3. Mikhail McClean 6'7 (Second Baptist) offers include TCU, Rice, Tulane, UT Arlington
4. Jason Carter 6'8 (Humble Christian Life) offers include TCU, Tulane, Colorado State
5. Kenny Anyigbo 6'6 (Bellaire HS) offers include Western Kentucky, Colorado St, Missouri State, Boise State
ATTN PRIVATE SCHOOL COACHES!
On Saturday, Oct 31st, St Pius HS is hosting a TAPPS Pre Season Scrimmage (varsity teams only). Three games guaranteed. Interested teams contact coach Henry Sims simsh@stpiusx.org.
COLLEGE NEWS!
Despite being in the middle of his first senior semester, ex Bellville HS star Nick Mosely 6'8 f has left the University of Houston team.
Friday, October 23
WEEK OF OCT 18th - 24th!
FRIDAY, OCT 23rd
Cedric Jones 6'4 wf (LaPorte HS 2010) and Randy Collins 6'5 pf (LaPorte HS 2010) are taking official visits to Sam Houston State University this weekend. The Bearkats will be attempting to seal the deal on what is rumored to be a package deal. But in reality, Collins is a potential impact player in the Southland Conference while Jones has a sizable enough body to make him a legitimate four year contributor as well.
Cortlandt Mills 5'10 pg (Elsik HS 2011) has been suspended from the varsity team. He's not in any trouble or nothing like that. The grapevine tells me he's been granted time to get offcourt issues together. Wow, the youngsters tickle me to death with their inability to handle their business at the high school level. What do they think will happen once some bills are added to their life?
The opening night matchup between defending state champ Jack Yates HS vs Dickinson HS has been moved from Yates to Barnett Fieldhouse. This is a super move for all parties involved. I was wondering how those Dickinson fans would've felt once they had to stand outside the projected sold out Yates HS gym - not able to see their beloved Gators. Now everyone gets to park, see the game, and use the restroom in confort.
Bellaire and Westbury Christian have agreed to ignite an annual series with each other. This year's game will be held Dec 8th at a (semi) neutral site - Butler Fieldhouse. The reason I call it "semi" is becuase Bellaire plays the majority of their district games at Butler (located on S. Main between Post Oak and Fondren). However, on the date is this scheduled game, the Cardinals will not have played there at all. The HISD district games don't start until after the holidays.
OTHER NEWS!
Don't forget! The services for coach Charles Phillips are Saturday 9:30am - 11:45 (viewing of the body) and 12p - 1pm (funeral) @ the Fountain of Praise (13950 Hillcroft Rd). There is still time to make donations into the special account at Bank of America # 586006087457.
WEDNESDAY, OCT 21st
Leslee Smith 6'8 pf (Christian Life 2010) will be taking an official visit to SMU this weekend. According to guardian, Johnathan Greenaway it appears Leslee could be on the verge of making a decision, "He's now down to two schools, Western Kentucky and SMU".
With the signing date less than 3 weeks away, families are encouraged to email us with their LOI signing locations / times. This enables the media to coordinate schedules and provide coverage as applicable. Darrius Curry 6'6 w (Stratford HS 2010) has scheduled a signing ceremony roughly two miles from campus at League America basketball facility, November 11th @ 4pm.
The McDonald's Texas Invitational released their pool schedules earlier this week. As always, some schools may be a bit disgruntled at their assignments, but that's how it goes sometimes. In the next couple weeks, I will provide you guys with the preview of the event.
At the same time, I'm still scratching my head as to how and why the TABC rankings tabbed LaPorte HS as the #8th best 5A team in Texas (#1 in Houston)? Although many LaPorte fans may take that listing and celebrate, I look at it as though its a major set up, a straight up booby-trap waiting to happen for head coach Chris Mason and his squad. For starters, expectations will be increased for this team, starting with that very McDonald's Invitational which guarantees 5 games during the first weekend of the season.
OTHER NEWS!
The family of recently deceased high school coach Charles Phillips still welcomes your donations and contributions which will be applied towards the $9k funeral bill. See all the relative info below, and do whatever you can to represent. A bank account has been activated at Bank of America and is accepting wire transfers as well.
ATTN HS COACHES!
It appears I misspelled the email address for one of the event contacts from last week. So, allow me to re-introduce this info...
Northshore HS is seeking teams for their Sophomore Tournament, Dec 4th and Freshmen Tournament on Dec 28th-29th. If interested, send email to sbenitez@galenaparkisd.com.
There are several events posted last week (scroll down a lil bit) that may still have a spot or two open.
COLLEGE NEWS!
The grapevine tells me that Dre Harrison and the 2 other San Jacinto JC players have not been dismissed, but suspended, and could be reinstated to the team next semester (January 2010), depending on how they conduct themselves in and out of the classroom during the next couple months.
TUESDAY, OCT 20th
Once again, the basetkball fraternity is being called upon to represent another soldier. It feels so good to give, and I really do hope that some of you grown ups will increase your efforts to educate these youngsters about the importance of giving back! Heck, some of the grown ups need a refresher course in that topic as well, but that's a different topic for a different day.
An account has been set up for those of you wishing to support the family of Coach Charles Phillips with donations. BANK OF AMERICA acct # 5 8 6 0 0 6 0 8 7 4 5 7. Many of the area high school coaches will be flooding Boudreaux's Cajun Restaurant (5475 West Loop South) this evening 7pm to pool their thoughts towards raising funds to assist with the expenses surrounding the burial of Coach Charles Phillips (see funeral info below, Monday's post). Also, every Tuesday KIDS EAT FREE at Boudreaux's! So bring the young 'uns and see you guys this evening.
Thanks to coach John Reese (Bryan HS), I got my hands on the results from their basketball event held this past Saturday. Here they are...
Waco 52 St Thomas 39
W: Tevin Scott 16, Michael Coleman 10
S: Christian Sanders 11, Chase Kammerer 10
Bryan 64 Bellaire 55
BR: Terrance Tucker 14, Aaron Burke 12, J-Mychal Reese 10
BE: Sheldon McClellan 12
Rudder 43 Waco 40
R: Jared Rogers 8
W: Demarquin Owens 10
Bryan 64 Second Baptist 45
B: Aaron Burke 14
SB: Julien Person 13, Mykhael McClain 10
A&M Consolidated 84 Waco 60
A: Justin Cambell 24, Alex Caruso 20
W: Wilson Bridgewater 14
Bryan 52 Austin Akins 43
n/a
A&M Consolidated 65 Rudder 27
A: Kevin Jefferson 18, Justin Cambell 17
R: Reggie Lawson 6
Second Baptist 46 Austin Akins 44
S: Henry Riasco 18, Mikhael McLean 11
A&M Consolidated 47 St Thomas 33
A: Kevin Jefferson 12, Alex Caruso 12
S: Christian Sanders 13
Bellaire 75 Austin Akins 59
n/a
St Thomas 47 Rudder 46
S: Jeremy King 11, Christian Sanders 10
R: Reggie Lawson 10
Second Baptist 43 Bellaire 42
note: Both teams' starters - DNP
OTHER NEWS!
Brandon "Snap" Peters 6'1 g (Yates HS 2010), Kene Anyigbo 6'5 f (Bellaire HS 2010), and Leslee Smith 6'7 pf (Christian Life 2010) visited Western Kentucky this past weekend. All signs indicate that the fellas had a good time, and don't you college coaches start scratching your heads IF head coach Kenny McDonald lands one of these big mouth basses.
In regards to yesterday's news about the 4 San Jacinto players getting dismissed from the team, I have been informed that 1 of the players has since been reinstated. It doesn't look good for the three others which include ex Dulles HS star Dre Harrison. I know and understand it doesn't feel or look good to read a kid's name associated with negative news. At the same time, this VIP ROOM is designed to share rumors which in most cases turn into facts. Many of you guys know that in this VIP ROOM, I only print / share a small percentage of the actual facts that I know. If you think I'm joking, then try striking up a conversation with me one day. But seriously, we all must be accountable for our actions, and none of these young men whom I write about can scratch the surface on the severity of breaking rules as much as I did when I was their ages. Once again, those of you who know me - can certainly say, Amen to that one.
MONDAY, OCT 19th
The funeral services for Coach Charles Phillips have been set for Saturday, Oct 24th @ The Fountain of Praise (13950 Hillcroft, Houston 77085). The viewing will be from 9:30am - 11:45am followed by the actual service starting at 12pm. Phillips lost his battle with cancer on October 15th. He was not only a teacher and coach at Madison HS, but also an alumni (class of '82).
Props to the eight high school 9th grade teams who participated at the "Fall 9th Grade Championships" this past Saturday at St Pius X High School. The results have been posted on the home page, along with the All Tournament Team.
ATTN HS COACHES!
Since Sam Houston HS is now hosting Wheatley on opening night, Aldine HS (who was originally slated to play Sam Houston) is now stuck out, and seeking a game on Tues, Nov 10th. If interested, email esmith4@aldine.k12.tx.us
Westbury HS needs a game on December 29th. Fr, JV, Varsity. If interested, email john.howie@att.net.
OTHER NEWS!
Late last week, Linda Johnson the ex CEO / principal of the now defunct Gulfshores Academy was sentenced to 24 months in jail for Tampering with a Government Record. The news was reported by the local ABC station, who defined the charges as Johnson accepted money from parents in exchange for giving credit to students who never did any work. Wow, I didn't not the folks had went after Gulfshores that hard.
COLLEGE NEWS!
You guys remember Marquis Toliver 6'5 (Rice Consolidated 2009)? Well, he's now at Blinn JC where he was playing football. The kid still has hoop skills, and is expected to be added to the men's basketball team as a walk on.
In an unexpected turn of events, San Jacinto JC men's basketball team may be minus a few projected starters (including a local star from 2009) after being at the right place at the wrong time this past weekend.
Friday, October 16
WEEK OF OCT 11th - 17th!
FRIDAY, OCT 16th
Them military folks ain't messin' around nowadays. One of the area's best kept secrets has been plucked off the shelf. Chase Kammerer 6'8 pf (St Thomas HS 2010) has committed to Air Force. "He has a really good chance to go in there and start right away, and I'm not talking about the prep team either", predicted St Thomas head coach Danny Evans.
The schedule for Saturday's 9th grade shootout @ St Pius X High School has been posted on the home page. However, I encourage all teams involved to check the site throughout the day for modifications.
Westfield HS received a blow when projected starting forward Eddie Alcantara 6'4 f 2012 moved back to New York a couple weeks ago. This is the same kid I first laid eyes on during the Milby / Jones Junior Varsity Shootout in 2008. He moved to New York during the summer but had came back to Houston and resided with his mother before she packed his sacks. With this kid, the Mustangs would have been a serious contender to win their district.
OTHER NEWS!
I'll be headed over to Sinclair Elementary this morning to witness two future journalists who were co-winners of the RCS Sports annual Creative Writing Contest. The pair of fifth graders will be to interview Calvin Murphy live in person in the school's library in front of television cameras, etc. The transcript of the interview will be published in "Da Magazine".
High School Coaches may check out the various teams / tournaments which are in need of teams to complete their requests. All HS coaches are welcome to submit open dates for games. Trust me when I tell you that once they are posted in the VIP ROOM, it has been known to fill up within hours.
COLLEGE NEWS!
The associated press has reported the official news that many within the local hoops circles knew for a few months. Texas Southern University head coach Tony Harvey has officially hired former NBA star Nick Van Exel as an assistant coach. Once again, it looks like Harvey is working his way into getting the growl back into the Tigers.
THURSDAY, OCT 15th
Smack in the middle of Cancer Awareness Month, longtime coach Charles Phillips passed away this morning, Phillips had been an assistant at Lee (then head girls coach at Lee), assistant at Hightower, and most recently assistant at Madison. He will be greatly missed. "It's a sad day at Madison", stated Marlin head coach Craig Maura. Phillips took great pride in helping kids on and off the court. I've never met a coach who was more proud of his defensive strategies and schemes. He implemented a lot of that defense while battling with cancer for the past couple years. A true competitor and warrior indeed. We will surely miss you man! We will keep you guys posted when the services are confirmed. .
ATTN ALL HS COACHES!
Scarborough HS is seeking varsity games on Nov 18-24th, Dec 1-14th, Dec 16th, 17th, 18th, 23rd, 28th, or 29th. If interested, email mgabriel@houstonisd.org
Here are a couple underclassmen tournamets that need additional teams.
Nov 19-21 - Terry HS is seeking (1) team for their JV tourney. Already committed teams include Strake Jesuit, Elkins, Travis, Dulles, Stratford, Manvel, Cinco Ranch, HCYA, etc. If interested, email mjackson@lcisd.org
Nov 19 -21 - Aldine ISD has opening for their sophomore tourney. If interested emal jbcarter@aldineisd.k12.tx.us
Nov 27-28 - Wheatley HS is seeking freshmen teams for the Jackie Carr Classic. If interested, email melder@houstonisd.org
Dec 4 -5th - Northshore HS needs teams for their sophomore tourney. If interested email sbenitez@galenaparkisd.com
Dec 10-12 - Aldine ISD has opening for their freshmen tourney. If interested, email jbcarter@aldine.k12.tx.us.
Dec 28-29 - Northshore HS needs teams for their freshmen tourney. If interested email sbenetiz@galenaparkisd.com
OTHER NEWS!
You don't have to be a high school coach to gather 7 or 8 classmates from the same high school and enroll them in the 9th Grade Shootout which will be held at St Pius HS (info located on home page). Currently, there are 2 spots left, and I project both will fill up by 4pm. Then, we plan to release the schedule @ 6pm today. As I stated earlier, high school coaches are not allowed to coach these teams. Therefore, it has been difficult for some of the coaches to trust other mindsets guiding their kids. Others face charges of favoritism if they invite a certain parent to lead the team instead of inviting another. Straight up mess. So this is my way of informing some of you parents that you can solve the issue by organizing the kids and taking care of everything yourself. One thing for certain, whichever team take advantage of these last two slots, I can personally guarantee that at least 1 player from that team will have his photo placed in Da Magazine. All the event info is located on the home page.
With all the confusion going on regarding the eligibility of the (2) foreign born student athletes currently enrolled at Lutheran North HS. Don't be surprised if Lutheran North attempts to tweak with their non district schedule in an effort to downgrade competition in the same sense that you'd rather mild instead of hot sauce.
WEDNESDAY, OCT 14th
The first day of regular season is roughly a month away, and there are still a few teams who are hustlin to get their schedules completed. Wheatley HS had an opening game vacancy, but it appears that no one wanted to play at Wheatley on opening night. Or should I say, no one had a road game to spare on that date. Therefore, the Wildcats settled on the next best option - travel a few miles down the street and open at Sam Houston HS (Tues, Nov 17th). This game is pivotal for Sam Houston because they turn right around and will host Yates HS three days later.
Speaking of Yates, I really do feel for Dickinson HS who opens at Yates on Mon, Nov 16th. Head coach Greg Wise has issued a few verbal disclaimers to opposing coaches this season basically informing everyone that he is not raising off the gas in the fourth quarter. Personally, I don't have a problem with that whatsoever because many teams have scheduled Yates with a notion they have nothing to lose. Well, if a team gets beat to a pulp, then it could effect the chemistry of that team, and the coach would spend two or three weeks before his team recovers mentally. I'm also a fan of it because many records have been considered unbreakable by the ol' school proponents. One in particular is the 1972-73 Wheatley Wildcats feat. Eddie Owens. It's 27 years later and they still hold the national high school federation record of most 100pt games in a season with a total of 31. That is an achievable mark by this year's Yates team. Another mark that could be threatened is Wheatley's 108ppg which was set during the same 1972 season. Two things that don't set well with those two possibilities.
1. Nobody wants their name removed from the record books
2. (Many Wheatley fans may be thinking) If anybody breaks a Wheatley record, lawd don't let it be Yates.
Also on Dec 28th, Yates will travel to Birmingham, AL to take part in the T Mobile sponsored event which will be aired on ESPN. The annual Madison / Yates rivalry has been disrupted after Madison pulled out of this year's schedule matchup. .
OTHER NEWS!
The TAPPS ruling has been handed down and it appears that at least (2) players from Lutheran North HS have been classified as NOT eligible for the upcoming season. The appeal process has been implemented and the legal process in underway. Therefore, I've decided to withhold the names of the two students (at least for a couple weeks) because this type of pressure / stress can have a serious effect on the mindset of a kid. If you pause for a second, you could only imagine what I could be imagining. .
TUESDAY, OCT 13th:
Leslee Smith 6'8 pf (Christian Life 2010) will be taking his first official visit this weekend to Western Kentucky. Former University of Texas assistant Kenny McDonald is now the head coach at WKU and he has been extra aggressive in pursuing Houston area talent this off season. Brandon "Snap" Peters 6'1 g (Yates HS 2010) confirmed on Sunday night that he will be taking an official visit to Western Kentucky as well. Looks like WKU is positioning themselves to steal one or two of the area's top ranked seniors right from under the noses of several schools who have evaluated both young men over the past few weeks.
OTHER NEWS!
In regards to yesterday's post about Yates HS pulling out of the South Padre Island event, I've learned some facts which should shed light on the issue. The grapevine tells me the reason Yates pulled out of the event is because they don't have the travel expenses in their budget. The Lions initially thought the school district was taking care of their travel expenses for the much anticipated Hawaii trip the week before Christmas. However, that aint exactly the case. Therefore, Yates must go into their kitty and use school funds to make the trip, which means less funds left to make the South Padre event. You can pretty much fill the blanks afterway
MONDAY, OCT 12th:
The grapevine tells me that Cedric Jones 6'4 f (LaPorte HS 2010) will be making it official any day now for Sam Houston State. If/when that happens, it's a definite win for Jones because he's been a third fiddle to teammates Randy Collins and Drew Parker year round for the past 3 years. However, Jones has a college ready body and does enough on the court that could easily attract the eyes of a college recruiter.
Chase Kammerer 6'9 f (St Thomas HS 2010) visited Air Force this past weekend, and the military institution offered a scholarship as expected. The leaves on the trees tell me they have given CK a week to "hit or get off the pot". CK had this to say about the possibility of playing for Air Force, "It was a great visit and I loved the campus and Colorado was great. They made me feel welcome and I really like the coaching staff. I will weigh my options this week and obviously I have big decisions to make".
OTHER NEWS!
Be sure to check the Home Page this afternoon for the recap of the JV Shootout held at Milby and Jones HS. Speaking of that event, I predicted that there would be a sleeper or two who emerges as a serious player to watch. I personally saw about 75% of the teams in action, and two players stuck out like sore thumbs. Myles Eglin 6'3 g (Madison HS 2012) who is already ranked #25 was having so much fun on the court kicking butt, it made me have even more fun watching him. But mannn, be on the lookout for this kid named Austin Lewis 6'5 pf (Westfield HS 2012). Good lawd, he was the most dominating force of the entire event. Blocked shots wayyy out of his range, rebounded ferociously, and scored at will near the rim. He's a huge part of the reason Westfield HS won all three games by an average of 22pts. Both tenth graders, and that's all we need is more hype on a class which is tops in the nation. Also, both of the previous mentioned players will not be playing JV this season. Not only will both be on varsity, but from what I've been told, both should be in the starting lineups. Sure enough there will be some college coaches reading right through this paragraph, yet will come asking me a year from now about why I didn't tell 'em about Eglin or Lewis. I told you guys... it's one born everyday.
Christian Life traveled to Dallas this past weekend and continued their dominance of statewide high schools. Behind the hot hands of Leslee Smith 6'8 pf 2010, Jason Carter 6'7 pf 2010, and young floor general PJ Hardwick 5'9 pg 2012, they beat up on the varsity teams from Prestonwood, Dallas Madison, and Lancaster. Yeah, yeah, yeah (I know you're thinking.... sure Christian Life should be beating these teams with all the assembled talent they have, etc.). But the truth of the matter is - Christian Life for the first time has an entire team of high school eligible players and only have 2 players (Hardwick who came over from DeKaney HS and Jason Carter who transferred from Marshall HS) yep only two from Greater Houston on their roster. So, if they are recruiting kids, they certainly ain't getting the best from H-Town. Plus, the school had talent in years past, but they never conquered or dominated the local high school powers. Right now, they are on the right foot, but the season has yet to begin. One sign of the good times is the fact that Christian Life has been invited to a very popular tournament in Padre Island (1st wknd in Dec) where they could have faced Yates in the finals. However, Yates recently pulled out of that event. Still, the field includes Plano West, HCYA, Austin Lake Travis, Second Baptist, Corpus John Paul, Converse Judson, and San Antonio Stevens. If that's not enough, the grapevine tells me that another huge Houston area event is close to extending an invite to Christian Life which would once again show that although many within the hoop community don't necessarily agree with the concept of the school, nor the rumored manner of which students end up in their program, but they certainly aren't afraid of these much taller and in some cases more athletic dudes.
On another note, I'm saddened to learn that long time New York Pro Am director and AAU excecutive committe member, Cecil Watkins passed away last week. I met Watkins back in 2001 when I was the AAU basketball co-chairman of the Gulf Association. He was always receptive of my aggressiveness as a young cub in the business.
Thursday, October 8
WEEK OF OCT 4th - 10th!
VIP ROOM WILL BE UPDATED SUNDAY, AM.
THURSDAY, OCT 8th
Kevin Brown 6'2 sg (Elsik HS 2010) texted me yesterday with the news he had committed to Central Florida. This is awesome because Brown was really hyped about taking the visit to Orlando this past weekend. The coaches at UCF were equally hyped over Brown as well. So far, Elsik has two D1 pledges (Amos Olatayo to SFA) with another (Josh Cleveland 6'5 pf 2010) set to visit The Citadel in a couple weeks.
As promised, the Milby / Jones HS Junior Varsity schedule is posted on the HOME PAGE of the site. As with every event, be sure to check and print copies of the schedule right up until the crack of dawn Saturday morning, because this is H-Town and teams will cancel on you in a heartbeat. As a consultant and scheduler of this event, I will spend a couple hours at each site evaluating the young talent. This is important and fun, because there's bound to be a good half dozen kids who should be listed / ranked yet they just didn't get the proper exposure during the summer.
OTHER NEWS!
Since their performance at the Super 16 Extravaganza, Humble Christian Life has been fielding calls from all over the country. Now didn't I tell you guys that type of exposure would happen if you performed at this event? Now back to Christian Life - one of the calls they received was an invite to play against the nation's Pre Season #1 team (Findlay Prep, NV). That game will take place on Dec 15th in Las Vegas. Although it will be hard as heck, but do you guys realize the implications IF this local team can pull out a road win against Findlay? I'll tell you what it means - national Top 5 ranking, instantly (like just add water).
Folks up and down I-45 South are still buzzing over a local unsigned senior who just might be one of the best sharpshooters in the state. Jacob Horton 6'4 sg (Clear Lake HS 2010) popped 10 three pointers (39pts) against LaMarque on Saturday. I know it's only Fall Ball, but I don't care if it's the local church bazaar - ten treys is ten treys. More interesting is the fact that Horton dropped 13 triplets in a single game (39pts) while playing with Team Texas this past June in the Manhattan, KS tournament. So why is he still avaliable? I thought you'd never ask... Well, every year in cities like Houston and Dallas, there are an average of 10-12 division one prospects who for some reason or another just get overlooked. No D1 coach likes to admit they are in the process of slipping on a kid. So they will commonly find a reason why not to take a kid, as opposed to reasons why they should go after him. I wont even go further into my thoughts on that topic, but I will project one thing - with new head coach Tom Penders Jr in the fold at Clear Lake HS, expect Horton to put up somewhere in the neighborhood of 25ppg, and become a hot commodity during the Spring because at that time of the year things are a bit different. Meaning, coaches commonly find reasons to take a kid, as opposed to vice versa. Recruiting sure is a funny thing, aint it?
This is a reminder that (10) ex Houston area products will be on the same court in a college game, Dec 12th @ Toyota Center. New Mexico Lobos (Phillip McDonald, Jamal Fenton, Matt Staff) will play Texas A&M Aggies (BJ Holmes, Nathan Walkup, James Blasczyk, Chris Chapman, Andrew Darko, and Ray Turner) in what should actually be a pretty competitive game. Plus New Mexico also have a pair of players (Darrington Hobson and Curtis Dennis) who briefly lived and attended high schools in Houston. Hobson was a classmate of BJ Holmes while at Hastings HS and Dennis is a New York resident who attended University Park HS.
WEDNESDAY, OCT 7th
The schedule for Saturday's Milby / Jones HS Junior Varsity shootout will be posted THURSDAY @ 8am (yes, I do wake up well before then). Therefore, this is one last window of opportunity for any of the local teams to fill one of the two spots which just opened up. Send
The much anticipated Super 16 recap has been posted on the Home Page. As a bonus to all you faithful early birds, the evaluations (meant exclusively for college coaches) were included on the site for you guys to read as well. However, those evals will be removed at 11am this morning. Therefore, you better print save or get really creative. Otherwise that info will only be avaliable for college recruiters.
OTHER NEWS!
Not everyone gets that D1 offer. So when the right schools comes knocking, don't dare pass up a great education (while still being able to continue your hoop dream). On yesterday Rashaun Riley 5'11 pg (Cy Creek HS 2010) committed to Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. His goal has always been to use basketball to get into a top ranked academic school, and the opportunity to attend the #6 engineering school in the world was just too good to pass up.
Wheatley HS is looking for a home game fr/ jv/ v on November 17th and 27th or 28th, as well as Dec 4th. Home games only. If interested, email coach Elder melder@houstonisd.org .
On yesterday, I received an email from the dad of ex Strake Jesuit HS star pg Steven Rogers informing me he had decommitted from Rice and is wide open for all takers. Currently, Rogers is at Chote Prep School on the East Coast.
Since the Super 16, several "what ifs" has arisen. Atop that list has to be - who would've won if Christian Life and Bellaire met up? Well, that question has been addressed and the two teams have agreed to get it on during a "scrimmage" which will be played Saturday November 14th (10am) @ Bellaire HS. Props to both schools for making an effort to satisfy the hunger of the hoop community to see this extravagant showdown.
Jersey Gates 6'2 g (Navasota HS 2010) has a pair of upcoming visits set up with Utah Valley State and Lamar. Gates starred this summer with the Houston Lynx Blue program.
This is a reminder that the HABCA coaches clinic is Oct 12th, 6pm, at Reagan HS. Clinic speakers are Jim Boylen of Utah and Andre Cook of St. Edwards.
Joshua Cooley penned a great article about ex FSU great Charlie Ward (who coaches football at Westbury Christian) aims to ‘Share Christ with Kids’. Here's the link to check it out www.bpsports.net .
SUMMER BALL NEWS!
ATTENTION ALL SUMMER COACHES! Be sure to lock the Spring Ice Breaker (March 20-22, 2010) on your calendars. This event is customarily held the weekend after the Texas UIL State Tournament. Nike and Boost Mobile have verbally committed towards supporting this year's event. That's awesome, since the SIB has basically been self sufficient for the 9 years of existence. Registration will begin on Nov 1st, and this is the only event where YOU get to pick your own opponent(s). However, the opposing team must agree to play you as well. Throughout the rigors of summer ball, somewhere somebody must have forgotten that you guys are the consumers, and pay your hard earned money to support our events. Therefore, why shouldn't you have the privilege of requesting to play a certain team or at a certain time? At the SIB, we're like the local fish market.... you buy - we fry.
Hal Pastner and Brian Jolivette have teamed up to produce 15 events over the next 10 months. In their Press Release, the thing that jumped off the paper is something that could flip the entire July period. Can you guys believe they are giving away ALL COACHES PACKETS for FREE! Wow, that's a huge sacrifice that should have great residual rewards. Also, that's like giving each college coach a $150 coupon for attending their July events. Then, add on the free food from the hospitality room, and events like the Houston National Summer Showcase becomes extra attractive for college coaches. To view all their events, visit www.houstonhoops.com
E-PPRECIATIONS!
The following email is one of the dozens of appreciation letters we've received since the Parent & Coaches Workshop.
Jim,
I just want to take the time to say THANK YOU for all you do and have done for the kids in this city. The PCW was just a bundle very informative and helpful information the speakers were awesome and to think we got all this for free, this is one of the few times free was actually free and worth it. On the drive home I felt as if I should return and offer some sort of fee for the service that had been provided but it just shows what a caring and giving person you really are, so on that note again I applaud you for all you have done and hope that you continue. Often times we take things and people for granted but wanted to let you know I appreciate all you have done for the kids in your city. Thanks again keep up the good work!
MONDAY, OCT 5th
I know, I know... you guys have been starving like Marvin for recaps of the Super 16, Workshop info, and whatever other advantage you can get during your Monday morning debates with colleagues. Well, I have an excused absence on this particular day - my allergies have been worse than ever. Eyes itching hard, sinuses clogged up like a cheap toilet. Yesterday I doubled down on meds which pulled me into the sleepy status where if I would have listened to some of the DJ Screw music - it would have been normal rate of talking for me. Although I'm wearing one of those hospital / swine flu masks, I'm feeling much better now.
The review of the 8th Annual FREE Parent & Coaches Workshop is posted on the Home Page! For those of you who missed it, there might not be a greater solution in the world than for you to purchase a copy of the 2-set DVD. Details to come within the next few days.
OTHER NEWS!
One thing for certain, many of the local seniors ain't taking this recruiting stuff for granted anymore. These guys are gobbling up these offers like candy. Just yesterday, another local star has removed himself from the wanted section. Anthony Horton 6'7 f (Clear Springs HS 2010) texted to inform me that he has indeed committed to Campbell University located in the state of North Carolina. Horton was battling injuries most of the summer which hindered him from competing with the Houston Swoosh Select at anywhere near 100%. Just this past weekend, Horton had to strap on a hard back brace to endure the expected contact as Clear Springs battled St Thomas and Elsik in the Super 16 Extravaganza. With his recruitment out of the way, Horton can focus on getting healthy before moving on to the Atlantic Sun Conference. Credit Campbell assistant coach Brian Burg for closing the deal. Horton is currently the 19th rated senior in the Greater Houston area.
I'm working on the review of the Super 16, and hope to have it completed by Tuesday afternoon or Wednesday morning. Therefore, I don't want to divulge too much info too soon. But I will let you guys know that I personally thank all of you for coming out and supporting RCS Sports towards another grade A event. As advertised, ESPN was in the building from opening 8:30am until 7pm, when the last game was played. Ditto for Nike scout Ron Briscoe and boss Jeff Rogers (whom I have never ever seen stay in a building that long). That goes without saying that our local high schools received countless hours of exposure as a result of attending this event. Heck, even Hakeem Olajuwon was in the house, and found himself staying for a few hours. Now some of you see why we choose DeKaney HS as the site. That educational establishment is hard to beat.
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