NCAA – The Young Veteran

Portsmouth Invitational 2024 Day 2 Recap

Day 2 of the tournament featured impressive performances from Ray J Dennis, Aaron Estrada, Joel Soriano, Riley Minix, DJ Horne, Marcus Domask, and Sean East II. On the other hand, Isaiah Crawford, Kalib Boone, Max Fiedler, Jamarion Sharp, Drew Pember, and Quincy Olivari struggled. Roger Brown’s Squad stood out as the best team, impressing with their cohesive play.

Day 2 is complete. Now, I have gotten to see every player and team play. It gets more interesting from here on out.

Players That Impressed

Ray J Dennis Baylor 6’2 190 PG

Dennis had a nice bounce back game. Showed an ability to hit shots. Create for others and get in the lane. He’s not overly explosive as an athlete, but just finds a way to get it done. He had 24 points, three rebounds, five assists and three steals. He also made all four of his three point attempts.

Aaron Estrada Alabama 6’4 195 Combo

Once again Estrada played very well. He gets to wherever he wants on the court. Very good at penetrating the lane and also is unselfish and looks to dish it to others. Estrada has such a great feel in the two man game. He keeps the defender on his hip until the advantage is created to get to the rim or pass to the roll or pop man. Really enjoying watching him control the offense. Estrada dropped 30 points, five rebounds, five assists and made five three’s.

Joel Soriano St. John’s 6’11 250 C

Big Joel did his thing again. He has such good hands in the post. I also like when he posts up if he doesn’t like his position, he will pass it right back out (Jackie Moon Semi-Pro style). Once he does, he resets and gets deeper position burying his defender under the basket and receives the ball back with an even more advantage. His mid range fade has really impressed me as well.

Riley Minix Morehead State 6’7 240 F

Played 4 years at NAIA Southeastern University before going to D1. Minix has a solid thick frame. He showed his pro level skill very clearly…. The c/s three ball. He was 4-5 from three and finished with 16 points and five rebounds. I want to see if he continues this and even flashes some more things from his bag.

DJ Horne, Marcus Domask and Sean East II

They all had 18 points a piece. And all made big buckets to keep the distance throughout the game.

Roger Brown’s Squad

This is the best team here. I’ve been saying it since I’ve seen the rosters and they didn’t disappoint.

Boogie Ellis and Jahmir Young is an extremely tough 1-2 punch for any team to handle. Both guys made plays and got in the lane at will. Love the burst Jahmir has in the open court.

Branden Carlson. His stock is rising the fluidity at which he shoots the deep ball is amazing to watch. Its effortless. Modern day stretch 5. He could bulk up some, but that can always happen easier at the next level.

Players That Struggled

Isaiah Crawford, Kalib Boone, Max Fiedler. Held scoreless. I know its a tough environment to play and you can make an impact in other ways, but…. You gotta find a bucket.

Jamarion Sharp Ole Miss. 7’5 235 C

His lack of physicality is an issue. He gets pushed around way too easily. Struggles to get in position to get rebounds. Reactions just aren’t quick enough.

Drew Pember

Once again just five points. He only took two shots…….. Pember has to be more aggressive.

Quincy Olivari

After scoring 20 points and getting eight rebounds in his first game, he had just four points on 1-10 shooting.

Things I Enjoyed Today

Aaron Estrada control his teams offense. Even though they lost haha.

Joel Soriano’s mid range jumper.

Watching two ex Terps play. I’m a Maryland guy. I’ve been going to the PIT every year since 2017. There’s only been 3 Terps to play here in that time…. Fatts Russell, Donta Scott and Jahmir Young.

The Most Impressive Thing Today

Watching Roger Brown’s team play. Boogie and Jahmir run the show, but everyone was involved. They played like an actual team. Which is rare in this setting.

The Bier Garden in Olde Town Portsmouth

Portsmouth Invitational 2024 Day 1 Recap

PIT 2024 Day 1 Recap

The 70th annual Portsmouth Invitational has begun!!! The first two games were very sloppy to start. But, Hey thats to be expected when you are playing with new teammates, in a high school gym, in front of hundreds of executives from the NBA, to Italy, Germany,South Korea, Greece etc.

Players That Impressed

Tolu Smith III Miss. State 6’11 245 C

Smith is a very physical presence on the block. If he was in the paint he would physical make sure he moved you under the basket to get the closest finish possible. He ran the floor well and showed solid mobility overall. Being matched up against Joel Sopriano was a fun watch. Smith finished with 18 points and six rebounds.

Tristan Enaruna Cleveland St. 6’8 219 F

Enarauna showcased versatility on both ends. He has a solid pro ready body with some length. He knocked down a couple of three’s. Showed an ability to hit the mid range and can slash or play in the post. Tristan didn’t force anything, he just took what was given and and played an extremely efficient game. He also provided a nice highlight tip slam. https://twitter.com/PIT_Basketball/status/1780751379914486231

Courtesy of the official Portsmouth Invitational twitter handle @PIT_Basketball twitter

Tristan was the best NBA and pro prospect that played tonight. Yes, it was just one game….. That’s why I said tonight. He finished with 25 point, on 9-14 shooting, 2-4 from three, three rebounds and two blocks.

Tyler Burton Villanova 6’7 215 G/F

Burton struggled to get involved early, but found his footing in the second half. He showed versatility on both ends. He can initiate the offense or play off the ball. He’s a guy that does whatever his team needs him to. He also rebounds extremely well.

Aaron Estrada Alabama 6’4 195 Combo

Estrada showed an ability to lead an offense. He has a great feel in the 2 man game. Knows when to be patient and wait for the roll, or attack the defender. Solid ball handler with very good vision. Estrada was at his best when attacking on the fast break. He is very tough to stop from penetrating the lane and is a crafty left handed finisher around the rim. I’m a fan of his. He had 12 points, four rebounds and four assists.

Joel Soriano St. John’s 6’11 250 C

Big fan of Big Joel. He showed some offensive versatility today. We all know he can finish around the rim and in the paint. He also made a three today and it didn’t look bad. He only made seven his entire 5 year college career, BUT all seven were this year. He can definitely keep working on this and add this to his reportoire. Joel showed soft hand in the paint with nice touch as well. Knocked down a couple of mid range fades also. When he elevates his release is super high and tough to block. Big Joel had 28 points and twelve rebounds.

Jarod Lucas Nevada 6’4 195 SG

Lucas is a scorer. He can score at all three levels, but is more comfortable outside of the paint. Quick first step off the dribble. Likes the p/up jumper. Ball handling is ok. Very conssistent three point shooter. I want to see if he can defend at the next level. Also, can he consistently create for himself and others?

Eric Gaines UAB 6’2 160 PG

Gaines is a thin athletic playmaker. He is unselfish and knows how to run the show. He had 10 points, 10 assists and 4 rebounds. Anytime you have ten assists to three turnovers you’re doing you job. Especially in a showcase tournament.

Isaac Jones Washington St. 6’8 235 PF

Jones was all over the paint. He’s very physical and an explosive athlete. He will always finish with dunks. Very long arms. I want to see some more offensive versatility from him throughout the week.

Players That Struggled

AJ Hoggard Mich. State 6’3 215 Combo

Hoggard didn’t make an impact. In college he did a little bit of everything. This can be a tough setting to really stand out and show your skills. He finished with four points on 1-8 shooting.

Drew Pember UNC Ashville 6’11 225 F/C

Drew was 1-5 from three, with five rebounds. If he’s not making three’s at the next level can he add enough other value?

Tyson Walker Mich. State 6’0 175 PG

Much like his fellow Spartan he struggled to make an impact. Walker just didn’t take charge like I expected him to. He had six points, four rebounds and three assists……. But, lacked confidence or assertiveness.

Eric Dixon Villanova 6’8 260 PF

Dixon struggled shooting. He seemed way too content shooting three’s. And tough ones at that. He shot 3-11 overall and 0-5 from three. Dixon had 9 points, five rebounds and three assists. I would like to see him more assertive in the mid post.

Things I Enjoyed Today

Watching Tolu Smith III and Joel Soriano battle. Two of the more physical specimens here. And they went back and forth.

Tristan Enaruna’s versatility

Aaron Estrada running an offense

The Most Impressive Thing Today

How absolutely annoying Santiago Vescovi is on defense. I would hate to bring the ball up the court against him. Keep it up Santiago. Keep being annoying!

2023 Portsmouth Invitational Scouting Reports

2023 Portsmouth Invitational Recap/Reports available!!!

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Portsmouth Invitational 2023 Day 3 Recap

Portsmouth Invitational Day 3 Recap

It was a good day. Yes, Ice Cube has been referenced in the first sentence. You’re welcome. The last game was ugly at times, then I jinxed it when I mentioned to my friend Jamaill we haven’t had overtime yet in the showcase. Then, the basketball god’s blessed us with a double OT game. Everyone in the gym tonight, You’re welcome.. Or, I’m sorry!

Players That Impressed

Timmy Allen Texas 6’6 200 G/F

Allen was super efficient. He has a lot of toughness and physicality. He has a great feel in the m/r and mid post. Takes contact well. Strong bodied and looks thicker than 200lbs. in a good way. Allen also was chipped in with 12 rebounds. He had 25 points and went 11-14 from the field. Almost all of his damage was in the m/r.

Kris Bankston Norfolk State 6’8 220 PF

Bankston struggled to make an impact his first game. Today he flashed athleticism that may be unmatched compared to any other player here. He has great hangtime and body control in the air when attacking the rim. He’s a dangerous roll man for lobs and has a great motor as a rim runner. Bankston had a massive one hand throw down, where it literally looked like he threw the ball from straight down ala Dwight Howard in the dunk contest. I don’t think he touched the rim, because he was too far away…. but, man he was way over the rim.

Kevin “Tha Dogg” Obanor Texas Tech 6’8 225 G/F

Man…. Obanor is intense. Plays extremely hard with emotion and authority. He also takes care of his body. He had ice on both knee’s and ankle’s when he left the gym. I liked seeing that because I don’t recall anyone else ever doing the same here. He is a freak athlete and super strong he can do a little bit of everything. I would be stunned if he’s not at the combine. He can make the three, attack the lane or just p/up in m/r. He can literally guard 1-4. He’s strong enough and agile enough either way. I loved his intensity and letting everyone know he’s that DUDE. Obanor finished with 29 points, five rebounds and three blocks.

Ed Croswell Providence 6’8 245 F/C

Big Ed flashed today. He started slow, but really came on after that. Ed is strong in the paint. He showed good hands and a soft touch. He’s solid in the p/roll game. He was relentless on the boards today also. Croswell finished with 21 points and 13 rebounds….. Ten were offensive!

Sales Systems Team

KJ Williams struggled from three, but still managed to score around the rim and with a post fadeaway. Williams also chipped in on the glass. He had 15 points and 17 rebounds.

Caleb McConnell chips in wherever he can. He showed the ability to score at times and he’s always a lockdown type defender. He plays within himself and that’s always refreshing to see nowadays.

I love Erik Stevenson’s confidence. He’s a flat out scorer. He can get hot quick and has a nice stroke from deep. Stevenson can occasionally shoot shots that may not be the best, but what scorer/shooter doesn’t. Stevenson finished with 23 points, going 5-8 from three.

Nathan Mensah had three late buckets in double OT that basically sealed the game. Mensah has a nice stroke 15 feet and in. Good rotation and doesn’t fade when shooting. I’ve watched a lot of him throughout his career. He’s a steady big. Defends well, has switchability and mobility. Ohhh and a 7’5 wingspan. Mensah had 17 points, ten rebounds and went 8-10 from the field.

Tanner Groves Oklahoma 6’10 235 F/C

Tanner is not the strongest or most physically skilled player. But, I would take him with me to a fight everyday. He’s a tough son of a gun. He plays with passion and he may be the toughest dude here. He never backs down. He keeps getting up off the ground. He struggled from three tonight, yet still made an impact. He had 19 points and eight rebounds. Next time though….. Shoot the open three at the end of the game. There were two chances you passed it out.

Players That Disappointed

Trey Jemison UAB 7’0 260 C

Trey is a massive man in the post. He really struggled today though. His hands looked very questionable. There were three straight p/roll plays where he just couldn’t catch and handle the pass and fumbled it away….. And the passes weren’t bad either.

Grant Sherfield Oklahoma 6’2 190 Combo Guard

Sherfield fell back to struggling today. He couldn’t make anything. He finished with two points and 1-11 from the field…..

Dane Goodwin Notre Dame 6’6 200 SG

Goodwin clearly is a good jump shooter and has a very nice stroke. He just missed shots today. None looked bad, they just didn’t fall. I like him. Today was just not his day. He had six points, four rebounds and was 1-9 from the field.

Things I Loved Today

Kevin Obanor’s competitiveness. He is “Tha Dogg”. He has so much confidence and isn’t afraid to let people know. One other thing I liked is when he left the gym he gave a nod to the trainer that helped ice him up after the game. That was cool and she appreciated it as well.

Tanner Grove’s passion. He made an and one and then had a weird, yet awesome counting motion with both hands while laying on the ground…… I realize my explanation is anticlimactic. But, If you were here at the PIT…… It was Electric, and very much a goofy white guy thing. And as I reread this I just can’t do it justice. Sorry, I’m a goofy white guy too!

KJ Williams showed some more physicality. I’m still not sure he can or is willing to post up on offense. He had one baby hook shot and a fadeaway post jumper score….. But, both were going away from the basket……. So, maybe I just kinda had a fling and didn’t fully love it yet….

The Bier Garden in Olde Towne, downtown Portsmouth, VA. I highly recommend this place. Its very relaxed and authentic German cuisine. I make sure I eat there every year I attend and its just fun and doesn’t disappoint. They also have a ton of beer selections. And whenever you have a beer referencing James and the Giant Peach….. I have to try it…… Johann beware of the Rhinoceros in the sky. And Aslin job well done!

Oh yeah the food was awesome! I had Curry Bockwurst, with German potato salad and beer battered fries.

Paired with Aventinus Weizendoppelbock

Portsmouth Invitational 2023

Day 2 of the PIT

Who do you think you are?… I AM!!!!

Day two early on was okay. I had already seen both teams and really wanted to watch the nightcap games. So, after the first game I prepared myself by eating Pork Fried rice, vegetable lo mein and a shrimp egg roll. Needless to say, I was more than primed and ready in several ways.

Players That Impressed

Tevian Jones Southern Utah 6’7 190 G/F

So, full disclosure…. I knew Jones had a good game. I’m literally doing a recap on every player. That said, He may have had the most impactful game at PIT since I’ve been attending dating back to 2016. He was lights out all day. He also has great size as a wing. Now in his career he’s a little streaky, but has that microwave ability….. or now that Air Fryer ability. So, was this literally his best performance ever and an anomaly? Maybe. But guess what, he performed and that’s what matters. I heard someone in the crowd say….. This guy needs to go to the combine in Chicago. Jones finished the game 11-13 from the field, 7-8 from three with 36 points and 7-7 from the foul line…… Bravo. You have my attention forever now.

Toumani Camara Dayton 6’8 220 F

Once again Camara stood out. If he has one more performance like that and his team still loses I feel like he’s the MVP of the PIT. I know that’s against the rules, but he’s impressed the most in my opinion easily. Camara had 21 and 12, yet he was only 1-6 from three. He still flashed and showed a versatile skill set. He also Yammed over Pete Nance too….

D’Moi Hodge Missouri 6’4 180 G

Hodge was an issue for Jani King immediately. He is a very opportunistic defender. He loves to play fast. He really showcased an ability to knock down the 3. He’s a captivating player. You see his imprint on every game. He’s a winner. He’s a SG that is an issue on defense for his opponents. Hodge was very impressive tonight. He finished with 26 points, 8-10 from the field and 5-7 from 3. He had to have had more steals, but that’s not what was recorded officially. He was a DOG.

Sales Systems Team As A Whole

Call It A Cop Out….. But, I Don’t Care

They dropped 119 points. Everyone flashed at points…..

But, I do want to say Grant Sherfield really bounced back form his performance at the NABC Reese’s All Star game. He had zero points on 0-11 from the field there. Today, he missed a couple jumpers early then attacked the rim and that opened his whole game up. He finished with 19 points, seven assists on 8-12 from the field.

Players That Struggled

Damion Baugh TCU 6’4 185 G

He just hasn’t flashed or made an impact.

Tyshaun Crawford Augusta Univ. D2 7’1 264 C

He is still struggling with the speed of the game. He has long term potential. He will have to start low level overseas, but he is a physical specimen. If he stayed D1 maybe he could have developed quicker? But, he has potential he just needs work on moves in the post and his motor in general.

Race Thompson Indiana 6’8 225 PF

Race just didn’t have the explosiveness or lift athletically today. He scores on hustle plays, or facing up and driving the lane. Or rebounds. Today, he was just flat.

Kevin Samuel South Alabama 7’0 260 C

Big body. Yet, He really struggled to make an impact. He was just overmatched by Jemison and Udeze.

Things I Enjoyed Today

Toumani Camara‘s dunk over Pete Nance…. No, I don’t have video….. But, it happened. Sorry, I’m young, but old and don’t do social media. Call me “The Young Veteran.”

Manny Bates dunk on Josh Roberts.

Nathan ” Nate Dogg ( The Rapper/R&B Soul Vocalist, RIP… and then the son in the Outdoor Boys Youtube channel I nicknamed Nate Dogg with my 3 kids, that I watch with my them weekly, https://www.youtube.com/c/OutdoorBoys ) ” Mensah dunking on Patrick Gardner… Gardner actually played well he just got, GOT.

Hey, Luke if you see this my family is all in on what you do!

Talking with a few Basketball friends in person, which I only get the opportunity at the PIT.

Lastly, Jake Stephens being loud and wailing like a goose on defense. Thank you Jake.

Portsmouth Invitational 2023 Day 1

Day One of the Portsmouth Invitational

Here We Go

It’s that time of year again. The best showcase in the business. I love this trip and look forward to it every year. Despite staying at a place where my door doesn’t fully shut…., Me like the players at the PIT are grinding away. Lets get it!

Players that Impressed

Tyger Campbell UCLA 5’11 180 PG

Everyone knows who he is. He played at UCLA forever. He controlled games and was a great floor general….. Yet, I was still super impressed with his play. He had 18 points, ten assists and only three turnovers. He is majestic with the ball. His hair flowing in all its glory, while he darts pass defenders to find open players for easy shots or buckets. He’s the best passer here. I have only seen four of the eight teams, but honestly it doesn’t matter. He see’s things different than anyone else. Even so his team lost 96-84.

Darius McGhee Liberty 5’9 160 G

McGhee literally gets a shot whenever he wants. He has unlimited range and elevates on his jump shot. I shouldn’t have been surprised, but seeing it in person it was clear. He can get buckets at any level. That’s never been an issue. He also is a great athlete. He can jump out of the gym and has great hangtime. I’m looking forward to see if he can make some plays for others in the next couple of games.

Hunter Tyson Clemson 6’8 215 G/F

Tyson was ripping the nets. He was 5-7 from three, finishing with 21 points and seven rebounds. He was not shy and took some deep shots. He displayed a ton of confidence throughout. He stayed aggressive. Tyson also showed an ability to run off screens or play the p/pop or just space the floor for c/s three’s. I was very impressed with his performance and loved his tenacity and emotion.

Sir’Jabari Rice Texas 6’4 180 SG

Rice just lets it fly. He is a scorer. Attacking the rim doesn’t seem to be his choice, but draining jumpers in defenders faces definitely is. He uses his length to get off shots and has a nice and fluid stroke. He had 19 points, five rebounds and four assists.

Kevin Obanor Texas Tech 6’8 225 F

Obanor is a DOG. Despite air balling at least two three’s, he never lost confidence. He kept his energy and intensity and his shot eventually started falling. Obanor was dominant rebounding. He was elevating and attacking the glass relentlessly. He ended up making 4-10 three’s, and all of them I believe came from the top of the key.

Toumani Camara Dayton 6’8 220 PF

Camara was all over the court. Super mobile and athletic 4 man. He can attack off the dribble and has a good handle for his size. Camara dives hard to the basket on p/roll situations and finishes above the rim. He was a player that flashed consistently throughout the game. He played 5 a little bit as well and was just running the floor like a gazelle. He’s still developing shooting range, but he popped today for sure.

Players that struggled

Connor Vanover Oral Roberts 7’5 227 C

Vanover struggled some with the quickness of the game. He seemed a little winded at times. He got the ball knock loose several plays and was late a few times on help defense. He has the ability to make the p/pop 3, but was 0-4 tonight. His lift was a little low, as well as arc.

Tyshaun Crawford Augusta University DII 7’1 264 C

Crawford was too slow. He took too long to make decisions. He needs to be decisive and explode to the basket. He was blocked by Vanover like three times. And they were brutal defeating blocks that were sent right back down to his face. He has potential, but needs to find that OBANOR DOG energy and be more assertive on both ends.

Things I enjoyed Today

Hunter Tyson’s unlimited SWAG.

Kendric Davis going 0-7 from the field and 0-5 from three in the first half…. Yet recovering and being chippy with hometown favorite Joe Bryant Jr. (from Norfolk State) to finish with 18 points and five assists.

The thing about the PIT is the always have a few local players from the area that get invited. And its deservedly so. The DMV and the Virginia coast is a hotbed for talent. So the support for Joe Bryant Jr. was awesome and something I always enjoy to see.

Rasir Bolton’s shot making ability. He can shoot….

Race Thompson looking like a Linebacker playing basketball. That’s always intriguing.

Hunter Maldonado showing he still has a wide range of skills. I’ve always liked him. This was just a lost year for him with transfers that didn’t work out and Graham Ike never playing. Maldonado showed well today.

The most Impressive Thing Today

Jake Stephens clapping with his monster hands that echoed throughout the gym his entire game.

Love the energy Jake and please keep it going!!!

On to Day 2

College Senior Pro Prospect Reports 2021-2022

260 Scouting Reports and a recap of the 2022 PIT available

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Portsmouth Invitational Recap

Portsmouth Invitational Recap
And my top 5 Prospects

The following are players that impressed in the final day

Payton Willis finally got it going on the last day of the tournament. He had really been struggled offensively and defensively the first two games. Today he shot the ball better, making 5-9 from 3. He had better success attacking off the dribble. Willis was just more aggressive looking for his shot today.

Quenton Jackson once again made an impact on both ends of the floor. He is a super explosive athlete. Jackson had a ton of blocks and steals in the tournament. He was all over the place on defense. On offense he was relentless as a slasher and showed the ability to make the occasional 3 ball.

Terrell Brown Jr. continued to dominate off the dribble. No one could keep him out of the lane. He got to the rim whenever he wanted.

Garrison Brooks continued his stellar play. He was tough inside in the low post. He also continued to flash his mid range jumper.

While Savion Flagg struggled shooting the 3, goin 1-6, he made an impact getting 17 rebounds and scoring 20 points. Flagg is a tough and physical athlete. He can score inside and out.

Javante McCoy showed he belonged here. He hit countless p/up jumpers in the mid range. He also showed the ability to break down defenders off the dribble.

Ryan Hawkins shot the ball well today. He wasn’t shy and was looking for his shot at all times. Hawk shows the ability to knockdown the 3 in c/s situations, as well as score a little bit in the post against smaller defenders.

Keve Aluma is a p/pop nightmare for defenders. When you close out too aggressively he will go by you on the dribble.

Tyrese Martin stepped up big time for his team. He was the only consistent scoring option. Martin is a physical driver and can finish in the lane with traffic. He also has the ability to score from the mid range.

Michael Flowers had a solid game going 5-5 from 3 and scoring 23 points.

Alonzo Verge continued his aggressive, but under control play here at the PIT. He had 18 points, seven rebounds and seven assists.

Gaige Prim finally got some of his hook shots to go and finished with 20 and 10.

PIT MVP was Michael Devoe. He had 25 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Devoe is a smooth player. He can be the 2 man game b/h or play off the ball.

Players that disappointed in the final day

Trent Frazier

Ty Gordon

Koby McEwen

Darryl Morsell

Abu Kigab

Lucas Williamson

Courtney Ramey

Alex Barcello

Jeenathan Williams

Justin Bean

Bryce Hamilton

My Top 5 Prospects

Jared Rhoden

Keve Aluma

Tyrese Martin

Jeriah Horne

Justin Bean

Portsmouth Invitational Day 2 Notes

Day 2 Notes From the PIT

Day 2 was fun. It was the first full day of three games. The last one was entertaining going to double overtime.

Side note… If you have ever attended the PIT or any basketball event that features bleacher seats….. Embrace the grind baby! It’s part of the charm of the PIT.

Double side note….. I learned after the first couple days years ago. Always pick a back seat at the top up against the wall, but you’ll have to fight me for it.

I just wanted to highlight a few things I really enjoyed watching today, a few players that struggled and a few things I found intriguing.

Things I enjoyed

Terrell Brown Jr. provided the most dominant performance so far. He penetrated the lane at will. His quickness and physicality allowed him to get by the defender and shield him off consistently. Loved the way he played today. Flat out bucket getter. He had 23 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists. While shooting 8-13 from the field. Basketball is an easy game when no one can stop you from getting easy shots….. Touche Mr. (What Can Brown Do For You) Brown. Also, UPS I’m here for an NIL deal or whatever, ad space, who cares, you’re welcome for the free ad from the 5 people that will see this.

Jamal Cain had a solid day. He struggled to make an impact the first day, but showed an ability to knockdown open 3’s and m/r jumpers. Cain has good size. Despite his slender build, he seeks contact in the lane. He has some toughness to him.

The overall athleticism from Quenton Jackson and Anthony Duruji. Jackson is intoxicating to watch as an athlete. Full throttle at all times. Duruji was much the same. Bigger and just as explosive. Even though he had several goaltends, some of those would’ve been legal in Europe.

Players That Struggled

Darryl Morsell struggled shooting today. That is the main concern with him. Can he consistently make the perimeter shot. Not so much m/r, but perimeter.

Jimmy Boeheim‘s shooting. If he’s not making shots what is he offering on offense. Yes, he had rebounds today, but that can be inflated in this type of setting.

Payton Willis is really struggling to create his offense. He isn’t getting separation at all.

Trent Frazier struggled to knock down his shots he normally makes.

Things I Found Intriguing

The matchup between Garrison Brooks and Nate Watson. Watson dominated Brooks in the paint in 1v1 situations. Watson is the biggest man here. He out physicals everyone. Once Brooks went up against a different big he went back to scoring and doing his thing. I just found this interesting. Watson went to his wheelhouse and Brooks had no answer. If Brooks is struggling with his jumper against bigger defenders. he may not be able to out muscle bigger bigs.

Cole Swider’s versatility. He showed an ability to attack off the dribble and draw fouls. He struggled shooting the 3, but has proven that in his career. He’s a better athlete than he looks also.

Gaige Prim’s old school hooks in the paint. Now….. he didn’t make them, but you could see he can.

JD Notae didn’t play today.

Hopefully Rocky Kreuser’s shoulder is fine.

Game 11 of 37 – UNCG pulls away late defeating UMBC 62-51

#RetrieverNation #AEHoops
#letsgog #uncghoops #SoConHoops

Originally my game eleven was supposed to be Towson @ Coppin State. But, my wife went out of town for a girls weekend in the Poconos. So, I had a weekend with my three kids. Needless to say a lot of pizza, ice cream and popcorn were eaten. We also watched… Jingle All the Way and both Home Alone 1 & 2. It was a good weekend.

Back to this game. I had a feeling it would be a close game throughout. It really was up until it was 54-51 UNCG with 3:01 left in the game. UMBC never scored again from there.

UNCG dominated the boards 37-28 and played better team ball in the closing minutes. I was most interested in seeing De’Monte Buckingham. However, his impact was limited until late in the second half, when he hit a couple high arcing three’s and made several key passes to open cutters to the basket. Buckingham is a solidly built 2 guard that possesses good vision and can contribute on both ends. He finished with eleven points, six rebounds and two assists. He is shooting the three ball very well this year at over 42%.

The rest of the scoring and impact for the Spartans was spread out. Everyone chipped in here and there. They had seven players with six or more points. Kobe Langley had a nice game as well. He was steady at the point. Not forcing the issue and making sure the offense was being run. He showed nice poise after going scoreless in his previous two games. He finished with ten points, four rebounds and three assists.

UMBC struggled shooting in every facet. They shot just 40% from the field, 28% from 3 and an abysmal 53% from the foul line. Those stats right there are why they lost. Normally they shoot the ball much better and score a lot more points. This was just one of those games. The Spartans aggressive pressure defense on the perimeter really bothered the Retrievers shooters and they closed out well also.

Keondre Kennedy led the Retrievers with 14 points, but he was just 1-5 from three. Jacob Boonyasith was in foul trouble the whole game and was just 1-5 from three. He did chip in six rebounds and four assists though. L.J. Owens ended up fouling out with nine points. I thought he could’ve been more aggressive to score.

Two guys that just struggled in general were, Yaw Obeng-Mensah and Darnell Rogers. Yaw just seemed out of control to me. Forcing shots. Fumbling passes and ending up on the floor a lot. I was surprised Dimitrije Spasojevic didn’t get more playing time. He looked like he would’ve made a more consistent impact. Rogers had a really bad final ten minutes or so of the game. He had multiple turnovers in the final minutes. He was pressing and trying to do too much for his squad. He over penetrated throughout the game. He really should incorporate a floater to his game. Rogers finished with six points and five turnovers.

Not a great streak for UMBC as they have now dropped four straight. UNCG on the other hand just stopped a two game skid.

Up next for me is game 12 – Radford @ UMBC