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Recruiting News:
January - March, 2003

'ROOTS TOUR: UW HOWLS OVER GASSER
March 31, 2003

The list of available big men keeps getting thinner.

Washington picked up local product Hans Gasser over the weekend. The 6-10, 230-pound Gasser, who helped lead Issaquah High to the Class 3A state title game, averaged 21 points and 10 boards this season. Gasser, who has a 3.8 GPA, was also looked at by Southern Cal and Stanford and had an offer on the table from Eastern Washington. more....

“I love the Big Ten conference.”
March 28, 2003

— Freddie Stanback
Read full story....

MCCLURE: COACHES HAVE SEEN HIM
March 28, 2003

With a swiftly-moving recruiting process, Connecticut Class M championship in the bag and extensive AAU play scheduled to kick off next week with the Tim Thomas Playaz, Dave McClure has a lot going on this spring.

Fans and coaches alike will have plenty of opportunities to watch the talented 6-6 junior WF from Stamford (CT) Trinity Catholic, who already has identified a pair of favorite schools. more....

GRASSROOTS TOUR: FEMI HAS ONE MORE VISIT
March 28, 2003

Oluwafemi "Femi" Ibikunle returned from his three-school tour of Marquette, Oklahoma State and Iowa State more than a week ago, but he won’t make his decision until after taking a final visit to TCU in the middle of next month.

Femi, a 6-8, 245-pound rebounding machine at New Hampton Prep (N.H.) who is originally from Nigeria, has canceled his visit to Oregon. more....

SALLEY EYES BIG SUMMER
March 27, 2003

Matt Salley is the kind of player who is eager to fill any role asked by his coach. The 6-7, 195-pound junior WF/BF also has begun to take on a new responsibility, that of team leader.

Along with Salley's expanded role has come increased recruiting attention. He has a nice mix of high-major schools that have shown early interest. more....

“Alabama, Kentucky and Oklahoma are my three favorites now.”
March 27, 2003

— Glenn Miles
Read full story....

RABOIN ADDS HONOR TO RESUME
March 27, 2003

The state of Missouri has backed up its Show Me mantra this year, producing an usually high number of mid to high-major prospects from the senior class.

After getting named to the Class 4A (second-largest) all-state team, Sean Raboin hopes he's next to be added to that list. Raboin, an uncommitted 6-6 WG at Mexico (MO) High, will be a fine pickup for someone this spring. more....

SCHILB MAKES DECISION
March 26, 2003

Blake Schilb had offers to stay in the Northeast or go down South, but when it came down to it he wanted to return home.

The 6-7, 215-pound Brewster Academy (N.H.) forward committed to Loyola-Chicago on Wednesday afternoon after considering Manhattan, Bradley, Charleston and Southern Cal. more....

'ROOTS TOUR: SWANN TO PICK PREP
March 26, 2003

Isaiah Swann went to Oak Hill Academy (Va.) knowing that he could stay only one season. The junior guard, who will be a fifth-year senior next year, is looking at prep schools to spend his final year prior to college.

The 6-2, 192-pound WG really improved his defense under Oak Hill coach Steve Smith and is now choosing between Notre Dame Academy (Va.), Georgetown Prep and West Nottingham. more....

ANOTHER TWIST IN JOHNSON SAGA
March 26, 2003

With rumors swirling around him concerning allegations that someone was asked to take the SAT for him in the past, Alexander Johnson will head to Bloomington, Ind., this weekend for an official visit with the Hoosiers.

The 6-9 Bridgton Academy (Maine) star, a one-time signee at Georgia a year ago before failing to qualify and having to head to prep school, also plans to visit Florida State, UConn, Cincinnati and Oklahoma. more....

“I don't really have a leader, but I do like the Big East.”
March 26, 2003

— Desean White
Read full story....

TOP 25 HIGH SCHOOL POLL
March 26, 2003

St. Vincent-St. Mary ran the table, and LeBron James now can add national champion to his resume. All but one of our top 25 have completed their seasons, and Indianapolis Pike will play for the Indiana state championship this weekend.

One of the most compelling playoff games to occur took place in New York, where previously undefeated McQuaid Jesuit fell to Sebastian Telfair and Lincoln. more....

JENNINGS A VERSATILE THREAT
March 26, 2003

He was the tallest player for Douglasville (GA) Douglas County this season, but Ralph Jennings did more than man the post for his 22-7 club, which advanced to the second round of the state playoffs.

Jenings, a 6-7, 200-pound junior WF, posted very healthy numbers. He averaged 19 points, 14 rebounds and three blocks per game. While his game became more perimeter-oriented -- which causes a lot of young players to struggle with their consistency -- Jennings connected on an impressive 46 percent of his three-point attempts. more....

'ROOTS TOUR: COMMITS TRICKLE IN
March 25, 2003

When players make commitments during the NCAA Tournament, it doesn’t get much ink. However, several highly-esteemed players made their choices in the past few days.

Fork Union (Va.) senior forward Donte Minter committed to Virginia over interest from South Carolina, Utah and Marquette. Several other big-time schools made attempts to get involved, but the former West Rowan (N.C.) star wanted to stay close to his North Carolina roots. more....

“He's going to be a pro somewhere the way he passes the ball.”
March 25, 2003

— Indian Hill's Bryan Martin, on Javier Mendiburu
Read full story....

TUCK A TOP WING ATHLETE
March 24, 2003

Everybody in college basketball these days wants athletes, so much so that some young players fail to answer the all-important question: Can you play the game with skill and intelligence?

Mike Tuck, a supremely athletic 6-7 combo forward at Maine Central Institute, is working to answer that question in the affirmative. more....

“I added five inches on my vertical jump, I'm two inches taller and 20 pounds heavier.”
March 21, 2003

— Bryce Taylor
Read full story....

EVANS WORKING FOR NEXT YEAR
March 21, 2003

After having seen his Richmond (VA) George Wythe team go down in the State 3A Tournament semi-final round this year, Tyree Evans feels his mission isn't yet complete. He strives to be back next year with a better, more improved edition.

"Next year when I come back I'm probably going to weigh more like 205 and I'm going to be on the weights hard. You are going to see us back here with the gold next year." more....

HIGH SCHOOL STARS MAKE THEIR PICKS
March 20, 2003

We all have our opinions about who will make it to the Final Four and ultimately win the NCAA championship, but we at PrepStars wanted to know who some of the high school stars thought would make it. Here, we take a look at some of the elite high school players in the country and who they like to reach the Final Four. more....

ANOTHER TWO SPORT STAR
March 20, 2003

Having just lead his Cairo (GA) team to a 21-8 record, Cliff Hammonds now moves into the next phase of his year -- the club circuit and focusing on he direction that his talents will take him in college.

Hammonds, a 6-3, 185-pound junior PG, averaged 21.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals this year on the hardwood, and had a fine season on the gridiron as well. more....

BURLESON HAVING HIGH TIME
March 20, 2003

Lyndale Burleson has become accustomed to winning this year and he is living large, but after having won a state championship this season his thirst remains unabated and he craves another this summer. more....

“I just don’t want to be in some lonely place by myself.”
March 19, 2003

— P.J. Couisnard
Read full story....

PORCH ENTERTAINS OFFERS
March 19, 2003

Before the start of his senior season, Denver (CO) East WF Antonio Porch told us that his performance would be critical. After posting several solid performances on the summer circuit his recruitment had inexplicably slowed to almost a standstill.

With that in mind the 6-6 Porch was on a mission to earn the admiration of college coaches during his final go round, and it looks to have paid off. more....

GRASSROOTS TOUR: JOHNSON SITUATION UNCLEAR
March 19, 2003

The fallout from the Tony Cole situation is already starting to affect the Georgia program.

Rancho Bernardo (Calif.) senior forward Mohamed Abukar is trying to get out of his letter-of-intent and Alexander Johnson, a 6-9 forward at Bridgton Academy (Maine) who signed with the Bulldogs last year, but didn’t qualify and is at prep school, has basically taken Georgia off his list of finalists. more....

COFFEYVILLE STIRS UP JC NATIONALS
March 18, 2003

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — If only. Yep, if only Coffeyville had been able to complete its miraculous comeback against San Jacinto at the first round of the junior college national championship.

Coffeyville, a crowd favorite as the sole representative from Kansas, actually drove many fans away disappointed after falling behind 21 points in the second half to a San Jac team that was executive with razor's edge sharpness. But not only did Coffeyville come all the way back, even taking a small lead, but they made up the ground in a matter of five minutes. more....

THE IVORY COAST
March 18, 2003

The following is the debut of “The Ivory Coast”, a look inside 6-9, 290-pound junior big man/aspiring journalist Anthony Ivory’s season.

If someone had asked me at the beginning how many games I would play this season, I would have never said only two. I had really big plans for this season — I had lost 40 pounds and other than some shin splints I was feeling really good on the court. I just knew I was going to make all-met and win the championship, but all the dreams I had were put on hold. more....

PrepStars Top 25 Poll
March 18, 2003

For most teams, the season is over. It is time to take another look at which teams have made the PrepStars Top 25 list.

The top few may look familiar, but as teams finish up their final games of the season, there is some movement within the top 25. No. 11, Bakersfield (CA) Garces Memorial dropped out of the poll completely after losing to San Diego (CA) Horizon in the Southern Division IV title game. more....

GRASSROOTS TOUR: LEE LEAVES LUTHERAN
March 18, 2003

Roosevelt Lee has come full circle.

The former New Britain High (Conn.) star is back enrolled at his hometown school after making stops at Milford Academy and Lutheran Christian (Pa.) this year. more....

“The recruitment has really picked up with (Florida) and a few other schools.”
March 17, 2003

— Jason Rich
Read full story....

GRASSROOTS TOUR: SWIFT DECISION
March 17, 2003

Henry Bibby lost to Oregon in the Pac-10 tournament title game on Saturday, but the Southern Cal Trojans added a major piece for the future.

Bakersfield Garces (Calif.) 7-foot, 242-pound junior Robert Swift committed to USC on Saturday morning at a news conference, just prior to his team’s loss to Horizon High in the Division IV Southern section title game. more....

BUCK SHOT A THING OF BEAUTY
March 17, 2003

With his high school season complete, junior guard Zam "Buck" Frederick can now turn his attention to the club circuit, where he will be playing once again for the South Carolina Ravens. He hopes things transpire differently during this go-round.

While most players think primarily -- or exclusively -- of their individual exploits during the summer, the sharpshooting Frederick has some team-oriented goals in mind. more....

BROWN SUCCEEDS ON WEST COAST TRIP
March 17, 2003

Harry Brown relocated from Baltimore to California prior to this season, and while it was a difficult adjustment initially, Brown now feels comfortable in his new environs and is ready play for a championship.

Brown, a senior who's averaging 21 points, 13 rebounds and four blocks per game this season, has helped lead Hercules (CA) High to a berth in the Division 4 state title game next weekend. more....

SKILLS, FUNDAMENTALS KEY FOR SHAW
March 14, 2003

When dealing with young big men, it's common for their athletic gifts to be more developed than their low-post skills. But one prospect who breaks that mold is junior Matt Shaw, a 6-7 BF at Centralia (IL) High, who is among the most fundamentally sound post players in the country, regardless of class.

Yes, Shaw does possess the athleticism to succeed on the next level. However, it is his grasp of the basics and decision-making that have drawn early attention from college coaches. more....

"I want to go somewhere that it is hot."
March 14, 2003

- Carl Marshall
Read full story....

INGRAM'S PLAY IMPROVES, OPTIONS EMERGE
March 14, 2003

Andre Ingram has seen his scoring average drop slightly this year, but his changed role agrees with him very much, as the team success at Richmond (VA) Highland Springs has resulted in a Final Four berth in the Group AAA championship.

"I think that cutting down on my scoring has allowed me to do other things and get other people involved," Ingram told PrepStars.com. "I guess that was always needed for us to get where we are now." more....

AAU PROGRAM PROFILE SERIES UPCOMING

As we did last year, PrepStars.com once again will be writing comprehensive AAU program profiles this spring, with complete rosters, fresh recruiting lists and other information on the top AAU programs across the country. more....

WALKER THINKING REPEAT
March 14, 2003

B.A. Walker is back and served notice Thursday that he is the fuel propelling his team's engine in their drive toward a second consecutive Group A championship.

Walker, a 6-2, 165-pound senior WG/PG, led his Onley (VA) Nandua team to a 57-56 win over Altavista (VA) High, which was a rematch of last year's state title game. Walker was sensational, scoring 37 points -- including seven threes -- as Nandua advanced to Saturday's championship round. more....

HAMMOND'S WAIT PAYS OFF
March 13, 2003

When Marcus Hammond decided last fall to delay his college decision until the spring, his hope was that more schools would jump in over the course of the season.

And sure enough, it appears that Hammond made a wise move. The 6-2 PG from Memphis (TN) East, who averaged 17 points and five assists per game this season for a strong team, is receiving more recruiting attention than ever. more....

"I'm hearing from a lot of schools; about 25 have contacted me."
March 13, 2003

- Robert Rothbart
Read full story....

BELL MAKES EFFECTIVE ADJUSTMENT
March 13, 2003

Daniel Bell struggled at the beginning of his senior season because of some junk defenses thrown his way, but he grew accustomed to the constant attention and flourished the rest of the year.

"I thought I had a pretty good season, but I saw a lot of double teams and box-and-one defenses," Bell said. more....

'ROOTS TOUR: TWO BIGGIES WENT TO MARKET
March 12, 2003

Two big men who have been hard to keep tabs on this year are seniors Maurice Shaw and Nick Stiggers. Both are available and both have gone through their share of trying times in the past year.

While the situations surrounding them have held up their recruitments, they hope to latch on in the spring and make an impact somewhere next fall. more....

"Wisconsin is the leader right now."
March 12, 2003

- Antwi Atuahene
Read full story....

TOP 25 HIGH SCHOOL POLL
March 12, 2003

Many high school state tournaments already have concluded as we near the end of the season, and most of the rest will finish up this weekend. The highest-ranked team to fall was last week's No. 3 club, Beaumont Ozen.

Center Kendrick Perkins had a very good season, but Ozen was not as battled-tested against national competition as some other teams, and they fell in the state championship game to Fort Worth Dunbar. more....

DAVIS A TALENTED TEASE
March 12, 2003

When it comes to officiating, coaches always say they want consistency. When it comes to Chaffey College (CA) JC big forward Lionel Davis, they say the same thing.

"Lionel teases you with all of his talent," said Chaffey head coach, Jeff Klein. "It’s just that the issue is consistency. I think he can be one of the best junior college big men on the West Coast when he plays to his potential, because the kid who usually stops Lionel is Lionel." more....

ANDERSON TO PLAY FOR TITLE
March 12, 2003

Jamaal Anderson will get a lot of looks from college coaches this spring and summer, but recruiting will take a back seat on Saturday, when the Little Rock (AR) Parkview star battles Pine Bluff for the 5A state championship.

Anderson, a 6-5, 205-pound junior forward, has become more confident and has evolved as a skill player. more....

"I like Indiana, it's a basketball school."
March 12, 2003

- Guy Ngardni
Read full story....

LAURINBURG CAPTURES PREP TITLE
March 11, 2003

In winning the first-ever Prep School National Championship, Chris Chaney and his Laurinburg Prep (N.C.) squad literally took to the road in their quest to No. 1 on the prep school circuit. They spent 254 hours driving to games and traveled more than 16,000 miles during their 42-game slate, winning 40 games.

Included in their victories was a crucial early-season overtime win over Winchendon in the War on the Shore (Del.). LSU-bound forward Regis Koundjia had an outstanding season for the champs. more....

"He rebounds very well and is very skilled at six-foot-nine."
March 11, 2003

- Coach Jerome Tang, on Tyler Jones
Read full story....

FINAL PREP SCHOOL POLL
March 11, 2003

If you don't think players can benefit from going to prep school, then just check out PrepStars.com's No. 1 team from the 2002-03 season.

Laurinburg Prep finished the season with a stunning 40-2 record -- and many of those games were played against outstanding competition -- giving its players a ton of added experience and exposure. Moving to the famed NEPSAC Class A league, Worcester backed up its impressive season record by winning the championship. more....

GRASSROOTS TOUR: BRADLEY GETTING TLC AT IMG
March 11, 2003

It’s been a crazy year for Ramel Bradley.

The former Park West (N.Y.) star, who averaged 27 points, seven rebounds and five assists last season, surfaced at Mt. Zion (N.C.) for the first half of this season before finally finding what appears to be a permanent home at IMG Academy (Fla.). more....

BANNISTER MAKES DECISION
March 11, 2003

When Florida overlooked T.J. Bannister, the Arlington Country Day (Fla.) 5-10 point guard took it personally and vowed to show the Gators coaching staff that they made a mistake in not taking him.

Bannister won’t get the chance to play against Florida in the SEC, but he’ll get to play in arguably the top conference in America after committing to an ACC school on late Sunday night. more....

GRIMES LIKES TWO, BUT STILL OPEN
March 10, 2003

Everyone has Kalen Grimes pegged for either Illinois or Missouri and while the 6-8, 260-pound junior big man admits they are the co-leaders, he also says that it’s not a done deal he’ll be heading to one of those schools.

Grimes, who is averaging 14 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks per game this season, is trying to narrow his list of finalists down to five. more....

"I’m waiting to set up official visits until the end of the season."
March 10, 2003

- Dupree Fletcher
Read full story....

GRASSROOTS TOUR: PRICE HOPING TO SOAR
March 10, 2003

The price hasn’t exactly been right for Bruce Price. The former home-schooled guard from Minneapolis, who at one time was headed to St. John’s, is now back home after withdrawing from Bridgton Academy (Maine) early this year.

Price, who averaged 21 points and eight rebounds per game at Minneapolis South as a senior in his only year in high school, said he has grown a couple inches and added about 25 pounds, making him 6-4 and 205 pounds. more....

FLORIDA KILLINGS EXPLAINED
March 7, 2003

Greg Killings flashed potential last spring and summer on the AAU circuit, but never was able to consistently put things together. His experience did set the stage, however, for a big senior season at Miami (FL) Northwestern.

"I think playing AAU helped me, because I got to go up against the top players in the nation," Killings told PrepStars.com. more....

"BC AND TENNESSEE HAVE BOTH BEEN THERE FROM THE GET-GO."
March 7, 2003

- Lorenzo Wade
Read full story....

'ROOTS TOUR: EWING PICKS HOOSIERS
March 7, 2003

The early assumption was that Patrick Ewing Jr. would follow in his father’s footsteps at Georgetown, but that won’t happen now that the National Christian (Md.) 6-8 forward committed to Indiana yesterday.

Ewing, who played with his back to the basket for much of last summer during AAU competition, has been able to show coaches that he can knock down the three-pointer this season while at National Christian. more....

FREEMAN: HOOPS OR GRIDIRON?
March 7, 2003

Brandon Freeman faces a difficult decision. He's very talented in both football and basketball, and he's been evaluated by coaches in both sports. As is the case so frequently, it's a case of heart vs. brain. more....

'ROOTS TOUR: JOHNSON REFINES LIST
March 6, 2003

At one time, Alexander Johnson desperately wanted to go to Georgia. He signed with the Bulldogs a year ago, but didn’t qualify and ended up at Bridgton (Maine) Academy this season. While under the tutelage of Whit Lesure in the Northeast, the 6-8, 235-pound Johnson has turned into one of the very best unsigned seniors in the country.

Up until recently, Johnson still mentioned Georgia as his leader despite the fact that the Bulldogs already have signed five players. more....

"... I'M STARTING TO SHOOT BETTER OFF THE DRIBBLE THAN STATIONARY."
March 6, 2003

- Joe Posey
Read full story....

GORE DISHES OUT PUNISHMENT
March 6, 2003

Arnold Gore has led White Castle (LA) High to a 20-9 record and a berth in the state quarterfinals. The 6-5, 198-pound senior WG/WF is averaging 21 points and eight rebounds per game.

Obviously it's approaching crunch time for uncommitted seniors, but Gore is optimistic that he'll latch on with a solid program. He said that a Big Ten school recently got in touch. more....

HIGH SCHOOL TOP 25 POLL
March 5, 2003

Most state and city tournaments will have ended by this weekend, and already many of our ranked teams have been tested, if not beaten.

Rainier Beach -- which was ranked by some as the preseason No. 1 team -- has crept back into the rankings. And Las Vegas Cheyenne ace Lorenzo Wade led his club to a championship. more....

"... I'VE ALWAYS BEEN KIND OF A BIG TEN FAN, ALTHOUGH I DO LOVE THE PAC-10."
March 5, 2003

- Peter Prowitt
Read full story....

STARKS ADJUSTS TO NEW ROLE
March 5, 2003

Ordinarily, players spend the off-season working on their bodies and their skills. Few, however, are forced to change their roles like 6-5 wing guard Corey Starks. Last season, Chaffey (CA) JC lacked the interior muscle and height to field a normal frontcourt. So Chaffey coach Jeff Klein decided on "small ball" and Starks was forced to play as an undersized big forward.

But this year Starks is playing on the wing, and he's shooting the ball much better from the perimeter. more....

SMITH STILL WAITING
March 5, 2003

Perhaps this is just the quiet before the recruiting storm. Or maybe it's a situation where previous options left unexplored will come back to bite him. Whatever the case, senior point guard Marlon Smith is ready to start getting serious interest from schools.

Smith, a 5-11,180-pound star at Briarwood (NY) Archbishop Molloy, is unsigned and currently not in regular contact with any schools. more....

GRASSROOTS TOUR: FEMI DOWN TO FIVE
March 4, 2003

New Hampton (N.H.) senior big forward Oluwafemi "Femi" Ibikunle has narrowed his list to five and he’ll get three visits out of the way in the next week.

The 6-8, 245-pound Nigerian native, who is a relentless rebounder and quality shot-blocker who still needs to refine his offensive game, will take official visits to Iowa State, Marquette and Oklahoma State in the next week while he is on spring break at New Hampton. more....

STEWART DRAWING HIGH-MAJOR LOOKS
March 4, 2003

If the sign of a prospect's true arrival is that he's been the subject of false recruiting rumors, then go ahead and welcome Tulsa (OK) Union junior Clent Stewart to the scene.

Late last summer, rumors swirled that Stewart, a 6-3 PG/WG, had given the infamous "silent-verbal" to Oklahoma head man Kelvin Sampson. But the sources of that rumor did more than jump the gun, according to Stewart. more....

"I'M JUST GLAD THAT (COACH) SMITH CAN SEE THAT I CAN PLAY."
March 3, 2003

- Adam Williams
Read full story....

WORCESTER WINS TITLE
March 3, 2003

Despite earning a No. 5 seed and having to play without their senior floor leader, Steve Hailey, Worcester (MA) Academy won its first NEPSAC Class A title in 15 years on Sunday with a 91-84 victory over Winchendon in the championship game.

George Washington-bound guard Carl Elliott scored 25 points, grabbed five rebounds and had four assists in earning tournament MVP honors as Mo Cassara’s club concluded its tough tournament road with a win over Winchendon. more....

FRIDAY TOUR: MCD’S TEAM PICKED
February 28, 2003

Why don’t they just announce the McDonald’s All-American teams upon the conclusion of the summer? That’s when it’s all decided, anyway.

Check out the rosters of the two teams below, but there are no surprises. No player lower than 34^th on PrepStars rankings made the team, while it’s basically the same for all the other recruiting analysts. more....

GIDDY ABOUT JARHON
February 28, 2003

Success has followed Jarhon Giddings since he began playing varsity ball for Blacksburg (VA) his freshman year. The 6-8, 210 pound junior forward demonstrates an expansive game that has steadily improved in his three years of varsity play. more....

"I THINK THAT I WILL TAKE ALL OF MY OFFICIAL VISITS THIS SPRING BEFORE MAKING A DECISION."
February 28, 2003

- Christano Johnson
Read full story....

THURSDAY TOUR: GIBSON CHOOSES TEXAS
February 27, 2003

Maybe it’s because of Daniel Gibson’s soft-spoken nature or the fact that he didn’t have a high-profile ACC school among his final candidates, but the junior guard’s announcement on Thursday morning came with far less fanfare than should have been expected from arguably the top guard in the Class of 2004. more....

“THE NEW THING I'VE DONE THIS YEAR IS TO GET MY OUTSIDE SHOT GOING. ...”
February 27, 2003

— Seth Gorney
Read full story....

BINNIE AMPED UP FOR SPRING
February 27, 2003

With two regular season games remaining, 6-6, 190-pound junior WF/WG Jimmie Binnie is garnering attention as the leading scorer and rebounder in his conference.

Playing in a large division of 18 teams, Binnie puts up 20 points and 8.8 rebounds per game for Johnston (IA) High. His improvement is obvious. more....

WILLIAMS EAGER FOR SPRING
February 27, 2003

Marvin Williams has quickly changed gears with the completion of his junior season at 11-9 Bremerton (WA), where he averaged 24 points and 11 rebounds. He is now eagerly anticipating the club circuit. more....

TOP 25 HIGH SCHOOL POLL
February 26, 2003

The top nine teams in our poll refuse to budge, despite the dogfights that take place in the playoffs. There was movement at the No. 10 position, however, as Detroit Redford fell to Renaissance in the city championship game.

An upcoming showdown to watch is Oak Hill Academy versus Montrose Christian. Oak Hill's Steve Smith and Montrose's Stu Vetter are two of the most highly decorated coaches in the nation. While Oak Hill has several Division I-bound seniors in its lineup, Montrose will rely heavily on unsigned forward Linas Kleiza. more....

"IOWA, IOWA STATE, WISCONSIN, NEBRASKA, KANSAS AND KANSAS STATE ARE ALL THERE."
February 26, 2003

- Alex Thompson
Read full story....

MONK SILENT NO LONGER
February 26, 2003

Today's basketball environment makes it very difficult to discover a true sleeper. But when you do find one, he frequently has emerged from a locale just a little bit off of the beaten path.

We're referring to Marcus Monk, a 6-6 junior WF at Lepanto (AR) East Poinsett County. Of the 2,331 people in Lepanto, Monk has turned into the town's most celebrated citizen. The presence of big-time college coaches at his games has added to his local mystique. more....

FARMAR HARVESTS RIPE GAME
February 26, 2003

After leading his Double Pump squad to a championship victory over the Long Island Panthers in the 2002 Best of Summer tourney, Jordan Farmar established himself as one of the top prospects on the West Coast.

This year, the 6-1 junior PG from Woodland Hills (CA) Taft has cemented that status, emerging as one of the most sought after point guard prospects in the entire country. more....

ANDERSON DEVELOPING INTO A LEADER
February 26, 2003

It doesn't necessarily come naturally to quiet and thoughtful Dwayne Anderson, but taking on the role of team leader is something he knew he'd eventually have to do.

"I'm taking on a leadership role with our team being so young," Anderson told PrepStars.com. "I always knew that I had that capability, but I just never expressed it. I'm trying to play hard and lead by example." more....

MONROE AN UNCOVERED PEARL?
February 24, 2003

You don't find many 6-10, 225-pound juniors who are completely unheard on in recruiting circles, but you also don't find many kids as unique as Russell Monroe.

Yes, Monroe is 6-10, 225 pounds. He has a 7-3 wingspan and wears a size-18 shoe. He turns 17-years old next week. more....

"HE'S A GREAT SHOOTER, BUT HE ALSO CAN CREATE HIS OWN SHOT."
February 24, 2003

- Coach Michael Miller, on Romel Beck
Read full story....

DAYTONA FIGHTS THROUGH TOUGH SEASON
February 24, 2003

Daytona, Florida is famous for the annual Daytona 500, and the basketball team at Daytona Beach Community College would be very happy with .500 this season.

Frank Burnell's traditionally strong program is fielding a diminished product in 2002-03, due largely to one knee injury and lots of youth, all contributing to an 11-17 record. more....

WEBER SURPRISES AS JUNIOR
February 24, 2003

When the season started, it was Glen Dandridge who had the reputation as the team's best long-range shooter. Now Albert Weber has become Mt. Zion's (N.C.) best perimeter scorer.

The 6-4, 195-pound Louisiana native is averaging 21 points per game this season and is knocking down nearly five trifectas per game. more....

MONDAY TOUR: DENG BREAKS FOOT
February 24, 2003

What do David Padgett, Olu Famutimi and Loul Deng have in common? They are elite seniors who almost certainly will be voted into the McDonald's All-American game, but who also suffered serious injuries that will make them unlikely to play.

Deng was the latest casualty as the 6-8 Blair Academy (N.J.) forward, who is bound for Duke next season, fractured his left foot in the state semifinals on Wednesday. more....

AFFLALO PACKING THEM IN
February 21, 2003

After a solid showing during the latter half of last summer's club circuit, Compton (CA) Centennial junior Arron Afflalo had created buzz for himself. The 6-5 wing showed he could play either guard slot and that he's a capable outside shooter with a good frame.

Afflalo's play this season, however, has been even better. Some sources on the West Coast have tabbed him one of the nation's best wings in the Class of 2004. His recruitment is following a similar course. more....

"MY GOAL ... IS TO ESTABLISH MYSELF AS A TOP-FIVE PLAYER."
February 21, 2003

- D.J. White
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GARCIA EXPLODES FOR 37 POINTS
February 21, 2003

LYNCHBURG, Va. -- Remember this name: Jose Diangienda Garcia.

Garcia, a 6-4, 190-pound sophomore at Lynchburg (VA) Holy Cross, dominated the first round of play Thursday night at the Virginia Independent Conference Tournament, scoring 37 points in a hard-fought victory. more....

FRIDAY TOUR: BRIGHT FUTURE AT MT. ZION
February 21, 2003

Roy Bright and Montez Smith have found a new home, and it wasn't all that far from their previous one.

Bright, a 6-6 junior forward who averaged 27.9 points, 11.6 rebounds, 4 assists and 3.7 blocks per game last season at Durham (NC) Northern, and Smith, a 6-0 sophomore guard, both have enrolled at Durham (NC) Mt. Zion Christian. more....

THURSDAY TOUR: TANGARA IMPROVING
February 20, 2003

Mohamed Tangara has gotten lost in the shuffle among Georgia's elite junior big men, but the 6-9, 230-pound Mali native may end up a top-25 player in the country when it's all said and done.

Tangara works as hard as anyone on the court, and it's starting to pay off as Arizona has started to show serious interest in the Mt. Zion (N.C.) big man. more....

"RIGHT NOW STANFORD IS LEADING THE WAY."
February 20, 2003

- Davis Nwankwo
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TINY GUARD DISHES OUT PAYNE
February 20, 2003

He heard all about Sean Singletary and Kyle Lowry, Philly floor leaders in the junior class who have gotten plenty of pub. Kashif Payne may not have the reputation, but he feels as though he's earned his spot with those guys.

The 5-8, 145-pound Payne, who played last season at Archbishop Carroll (Pa.), opted to go the prep school route and has been the major reason why Northfield Mount Hermon (Mass.) is having one of its best seasons in a long time. more....

RONDO BLOWING UP AS JUNIOR
February 20, 2003

Rajon Rondo entered his junior season after an up-and-down series of performances in the summer of 2002, but the Louisville (KY) Eastern PG/WG has ironed out some of those inconsistencies this winter.

"I've really improved my jump shot and my vertical," Rondo told PrepStars.com. "I'm shooting 42 percent from the three-point line and really worked on that this summer. My vertical is now 36 inches as well." more....

RABOIN SIFTING THROUGH OPTIONS
February 20, 2003

Like many of his counterparts, 6-7 wing forward Sean Raboin was faced with a tough decision last fall. The senior had to decide between taking an early offer and securing his college future, or waiting until the spring to find the right fit.

Raboin opted to delay his decision and still is working his way through the recruiting process. more....

MORLEY INTEREST PICKING INTEREST
February 20, 2003

Blend quick-twitch muscles and silky perimeter skills into a lanky 6-8 frame, and you get Indian Hills (IA) Community College forward Zach Morley.

"Zach is very athletic for a four man, and can he step out and face up on the perimeter," Indian Hills assistant Bryan Martin said. more....

WEDNESDAY TOUR: SWIFT RETURN
February 19, 2003

Robert Swift just got back from his official visit to Southern Cal and although he has made it no secret that Henry Bibby and the Trojans sit atop his list, no commitment was given while on his trip.

The 7-0, 242-pound Swift enjoyed his first official visit and even got to meet with the president of the university. more....

"I LIKE OHIO STATE, N.C. STATE, AUBURN, UCONN AND FLORIDA, AND I ALSO LIKE DEPAUL AND ILLINOIS."
February 19, 2003

- Justin Cerasoli
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MCDONALD'S LIST SOLID, WITH A FEW SURPRISES
February 19, 2003

The 100 finalists for the McDonald's All-American Boys Basketball Game, which will be played on March 26 in Cleveland, were announced on Tuesday. The final 24 players that will participate in the game will be announced on Thursday, Feb. 27, during ESPN's SportsCenter.

Surprises? Well, all the players we expect have a legitimate chance to make the team are on the list of finalists, so there's nothing unusual about that. But as always, there were a few notable snubs and some apparent inconsistencies. more....

PREP SCHOOL POLL
February 19, 2003

Despite a loss, Laurinburg remains on top while Worcester moves up one spot. In the astoundingly tough New England division, teams continue to take turns brutalizing each other.

That makes the consistency of Worcester, Bridgton and others even more remarkable. more....

MINNESOTA GUARD STILL AVAILABLE
February 19, 2003

Around Minneapolis, Jessie Burton has developed a reputation -- he's also responsible for sparking a local legend.

The 5-11 PG at Minneapolis (MN) South outplayed Sebastian Telfair head to head at last spring's Memorial Day Classic, and has watched as the story has evolved -- and been creatively expanded -- over time. more....

TUESDAY TOUR: IVORY RE-SURFACES
February 18, 2003

There's no question that the Class of 2004 is loaded with talent that far exceeds its predecessor, but big men still will be at a premium. One frontcourt junior who is worth keeping track of is 6-9, 285-pound Anthony Ivory.

The Maryland native left National Christian earlier this season and has surfaced at Spring Brook High in Silver Spring, Md., but because of injury his junior campaign lasted all of two games. more....

TOP 25 HIGH SCHOOL POLL
February 18, 2003

Most of the action in high school basketball is now centered around state and private school tournaments. There won't be as many head to head showdowns, but every year a few ranked teams taste bitter defeat in their run to a title. more....

FOCUS ON XAVIER
February 18, 2003

Recruiting at Xavier is on its way to becoming more successful than ever. Thanks to star forward David West, the Atlantic-10's current power program has elevated its reputation in each of the past two seasons.

However, the Musketeers still must overcome the fact that they don't compete in a power conference. more....

MONDAY TOUR: BIG NAMES AT CSI
February 17, 2003

For a team that's been noticeably absent from the junior college national championship tournament the past couple of years, Southern Idaho (ID) JC sure hasn't lacked star talent.

Extremely tough competition may have derailed their national title plans recently, but just last year the team boasted a backcourt of Ricky Clemons (now at Missouri) and Tony Bobbitt (Cincinnati). more....

"I WOULD REALLY LOVE TO BE RECRUITED BY NORTH CAROLINA AND DUKE."
February 17, 2003

- Damien Harris
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HILL CHOOSES ARKANSAS
February 17, 2003

His favorite players are Drew Gooden and Nick Collison. His favorite team is Kansas. His family even grew up in Kansas, but junior big man Steven Hill shocked many when he ended up choosing Arkansas over the Jayhawks yesterday afternoon.

``They (Kansas) were the front-runner and he was leaning that way, but once he took his visits and got to know everybody, he just felt a little more comfortable at Arkansas," said Troy Hill, Steven's father. more....

KNIGHT A TOP SEATTLE SHOOTER
February 17, 2003

When we watched Michael Knight play last year, he immediately impressed with his ability to shoot the ball. But he doesn't want to be a one-trick pony, so diversifying his game was his chief goal for this season.

"The big thing is that I get a lot of press about my shooting, people say that's all that I can do," Knight told PrepStars.com. "But I feel that my game is more diverse this year, and I've taken a lot of pride in my ball-handling and taking people off the dribble." more....

FRIDAY TOUR: FAMUTIMI MENDING
February 14, 2003

Arkansas-bound high-flyer Olu Famutimi will miss the rest of the season after tearing a torn ACL in his right knee last weekend.

The 6-5 Flint (MI) Northwestern senior swingman will likely miss anywhere from three to six months. more....

"... I AM LIKING THE BIG 12 AND THE BIG EAST."
February 14, 2003

- Kyle Lowery
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BASS MAKES DECISION
February 14, 2003

Baton Rouge (LA) Capitol senior forward Brandon Bass, considered by many the top unsigned frontline player in the country, opted to stay home when he chose LSU at a news conference this morning.

The 6-8, 240-pound Bass, ranked 13th in the nation by Prepstars.com, picked the Tigers over UConn and Mississippi State. He also, at one time, considered Cincinnati, Kentucky and USC. more....

COACHES GETTING STEELY-EYED
February 14, 2003

Ronald Steele's hopes of a perfect season are unfolding as planned. Steele, a 6-2, 180-pound junior PG from Birmingham (AL) Carroll, has led his club to its current 32-0 record.

And Steele's individual accomplishments also are a part of the mix. He's playing better basketball now than ever. more....

THURSDAY TOUR: VADEN UPDATE
February 13, 2003

The rumors have run rampant that Robert Vaden, arguably the best junior in Indiana, has re-opened his recruitment after verbally committing to Purdue. However, Pike coach Larry Bullington said that is not the case.

The versatile 6-6 junior, who transferred along with fellow Purdue-bound junior Desmond Gadis from Cathedral prior to this season, leads the team averaging 13.7 points per game. more....

"... I HAD TROUBLE AT ABCD BECAUSE I WASN'T SELFISH ENOUGH."
February 13, 2003

- Sean Singletary
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JONES MAKES EARLY DECISION
February 13, 2003

Dion Dowell became the first Houston Westside All-Star from the Class of 2004 to make a commitment, when he announced for Texas several weeks ago, and now one of Dowell's AAU teammates also has made a pledge.

Charlie Jones III, the son of All-Stars coach Charlie Jones II, committed to Colorado State Wednesday night. Jones, a 6-0, 155-pound PG from Katy (TX) Cinco Ranch, is a good playmaker and defender who is known as a pass-first, shoot-second type of player. more....

PORTER FERMENTS WHILE INJURED
February 13, 2003

After missing 10 games with a broken hand, Rell Porter returned to action last Friday and put up 10 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks.

The 6-7, 185-pound junior BF/WF at Pittsburg (TX) High was thrilled to get back on the court, even if he still feels pain. more....

HAMPTON LOOKING TO DOUBLE
February 13, 2003

Here's a little piece of advice for anyone looking at Bishop Byrne High (Tenn.) guard Charles Hampton: Make sure you have a decent football team as well. The 6-2, 175-pound junior is also a dominant wide receiver/safety who scored four touchdowns in the state title game last season.

Hampton, who plays for a small Class 2A school, doesn't get nearly as much attention as some of the other top players in Tennessee such as Andre Allen, Jerrell Houston and Corey Brewer ­ but he's arguably as athletic as any of them. more....

GALE SWAYING BETWEEN TWO OPTIONS
February 13, 2003

It's coming down to crunch time and David Gale has a difficult decision to make.

The former Sherman Oaks (Calif.) star point guard, who traveled 3,000 miles to do a prep year at Brewster Academy (N.H.), is torn between playing time and the feel of big-time basketball. more....

SWIFT HAS TWO FAVORITES
February 12, 2003

Robert Swift has focused intensely on his upcoming choice of schools and is starting to focus on two, in particular, with a plan to make decision sooner than later.

Swift, a 7-0, 245-pound junior center from Bakersfield (CA) Garces Memorial, has helped his team to a 26-1 record this year, averaging 21.5 points,16 rebounds, six blocks and three assists per game. more....

"... AS LONG AS IT IS ON THE EAST COAST, THAT'S FINE WITH ME."
February 12, 2003

- Marcus Sikes
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TOP 25 HIGH SCHOOL POLL
February 12, 2003

As expected, the Primetime Shootout caused a shakeup in our top 25 high school poll. The trio of top-five teams in action all won, but others -- such as previously red-hot Jackson (MS) Lanier -- were beaten by the stellar competition they faced in Trenton.

One of those clubs, Columbus (OH) Brookhaven, escaped by virtue of a buzzer beater from Oklahoma-bound forward Brandon Foust. more....

WEDNESDAY TOUR: BOSTON BACK ON MARKET
February 12, 2003

Former Charlestown High (Mass.) standout Cori Boston has opted to re-open his recruitment after committing to New Hampshire earlier this season.

The 6-5, 200-pound Boston, who is averaging 15.9 points and 5.4 rebounds per game while doing a prep year at Northfield Mount Hermon, is looking at Boston University and Northeastern. LaSalle and Drake have also expressed interest. more....

TUESDAY TOUR: PADGETT HURT -- AGAIN
February 11, 2003

David Padgett missed the end of last season because of a dislocated kneecap. He'll likely be watching the rest of his senior campaign because of a knee injury as well.

The 6-11, 235-pound Kansas-bound big man is a Nick Collison-clone who will make an instant impact in Lawrence next season, but he's starting to develop a label of being injury-prone. more....

THOMAS ON RECORD-SETTING PACE
February 11, 2003

By all accounts, Panola (TX) JC wing Omar Thomas has exceeded his modest expectations. Average lift. Skinny. Role player in waiting.

Thomas has absorbed his share of unflattering remarks, but the 6-5 Philly native persevered and is about to put the finishing touches on a history-making career in junior college. Thomas is on pace to become the first junior college player to amass 2,000 points and 1,000 rebounds over the course of a career. more....

ACC BOASTS HIGH QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY
February 11, 2003

On a per-team basis, the ACC has fared better than any other conference in recruiting the Class of 2002. However, on an overall basis, the ACC stands fifth, behind the SEC, Conference USA, Big Ten and Big 12, and barely ahead of the Big East and Pac-10.

The league's top newcomer is likely to be No. 2 senior Luol Deng, who signed in the fall with Duke. more....

"WE CAN PUT HIM ON TWO'S AND THREE'S AND HE CAN JUST SHUT PEOPLE DOWN."
February 11, 2003

- Lon Morris assistant Rick Dotson, on Esteban Bonzano
Read full story....

MONDAY TOUR: BELL RE-COMMITS TO ST. JOHN'S
February 10, 2003

St. John's showed him some love and Jermaine Bell has once again returned the favor. The 6-11, 205-pound junior at IMG (Fla.) re-opened his recruitment a couple months ago when he wasn't getting the attention from the Red Storm that he wanted.

Providence, Syracuse and numerous other schools did their best to get into the picture, but Bell has made it no secret that his desire is to remain with St. John's. more....

TELFAIR SCORCHES AT PRIMETIME
February 9, 2003

TRENTON, N.J. -- Sebastian Telfair was lousy for a half. The meager six points, unforced errors and half-hearted defense even elicited some boos from the fans at the Primetime Shootout on Sunday. He was lethargic and appeared unable to cope with multi-layered pressure defense from well-schooled St. Anthony guards.

But Telfair converted skeptics in the second half, when he flipped the switch on that lax demeanor and amped up the rage. more....

PRIMETIME: LEBRON ONE-UPS HIMSELF
February 8, 2003

TRENTON, N.J. -- LeBron James has been the subject of some high-profile persecution recently, but it was Los Angeles Westchester that was sentenced to death row Saturday night.

James and his St. Vincent-St. Mary extras rattled and thoroughly humbled the proud crew from L.A., jumping to an early lead and never allowing Westchester to make the game competitive. The 78-52 final score doesn't do it justice. more....

OAK HILL SURVIVES ... AGAIN
February 7, 2003

TRENTON, N.J. - Lacking the household names and television exposure of Mouth of Wilson (VA) Oak Hill, traditional logic didn't give Philadelphia (PA) St. John Neumann much of a chance in Friday night's match up at the Primetime Shootout.

Traditional logic, though, hasn't served Oak Hill that well this year, as the Warriors have dropped an unthinkable three games this season. Following suit, Neumann pushed Oak Hill to the brink before falling, 69-57. more....

"I FEEL LIKE MY STRENGTH THIS YEAR IS THAT I AM A TRIPLE THREAT."
February 7, 2003

- A.D. Vassallo Colon
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RICH HOPING FOR FRUITFUL DIVIDENDS
February 7, 2003

Jason Rich has taken a very mature approach to his game this year, hoping to see fruitful dividends yielded when it becomes money time in the state playoffs.

The 6-3, 185-pound junior WG from Orlando (FL) Dr Phillips is seeing a heavier interest from schools wishing to procure his talents for the next four years.more....

PAULUS A SUPER SOPH
February 7, 2003

Notre Dame coach Mike Brey made the trip just to watch him toss a few pigskins at practice. Xavier head man Thad Matta’s been up a couple times for football games. Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski and North Carolina’s Matt Doherty have already taken the trip to watch Greg Paulus play basketball — and he’s just a sophomore.

In a state with far more high-profile point guards (Sebastian Telfair, Tiki Mayben and A.J. Price), the 6-2, 175-pound Paulus has become the most coveted by college coaches. more....

“THIS YEAR I AM THROWING DOWN DUNKS AND THROWING MY BODY IN THE AIR WITH THE BIG BOYS."
February 6, 2003

— Tim Pierce
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BANISHING FOES IS FOCUS FOR BANNISTER
February 6, 2003

Changes in on court personnel this year have also meant a change in the fortunes individually for 6-7, 205-pound JR PF Paul Bannister of Wildwood (MO) Lafayette.

"This year we have some younger players who can shoot, and it has opened up a lot of things for me. It's getting people more shots in general, not just me." more....

THURSDAY TOUR: O’DONNELL CHOOSES WOLFPACK
February 6, 2003

N.C. State didn’t beat out Arizona in the Mustafa Shakur sweepstakes, but the Wolfpack got one of the most underrated floor leaders in the country.

Baby-faced Largo (Fla.) senior point guard Mike O’Donnell, who was at one time going to prep and then redshirt before playing at Florida, committed to N.C. State over Butler and Holy Cross. more....

TOP 25 HIGH SCHOOL POLL
February 5, 2003

Until final word has been issued on LeBron James' eligibility and as long as they don't lose a game on the court, St. Vincent-St. Mary will hold onto the top spot. James has appealed his suspension and hopes to be back to lead his team to a state -- and national -- championship.

St. Vincent-St. Mary will be in big trouble if LeBron doesn't get cleared by this weekend, however, when they battle top-40 senior Trevor Ariza and No. 9 Westchester at the Primetime Shootout. more....

HELMETS AND HOOPS: SIGNING DAY
February 5, 2002

The spring signing period for basketball doesn't arrive until April, but Wednesday marked the first time that high school seniors can sign letters of intent for football.

Most of the nation's top gridiron prospects either have or will fax in their signatures to their selected school by the end of the week, and several of them may eventually set foot on a college basketball court near you. One who may not, but definitely could, is Louisville signee Michael Bush. more....

WEDNESDAY TOUR: FARLEY TO C-USA
February 5, 2003

He hasn't yet established himself as a big name among big men in the Class of 2004, but Terrence Farley has made an early college decision.

Farley, a 6-10 junior C at Louisville (KY) Pleasure Ridge Park, will take his talents to Conference USA. more....

UPDATED PREP SCHOOL POLL
February 5, 2003

Laurinburg (NC) Prep has risen to the top this week while there were some major shakeups among the top prep school teams. Laurinburg's only blemish was delivered at the GlaxoSmithKline Invitational by former No. 1 Blair Academy, but Laurinburg has moved into the top spot after Blair's recent loss to Life Center. more....

“DePaul and Ohio State have been out to see me, that I know of.”
February 4, 2003

- Dupree Fletcher
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TUESDAY TOUR: WILLIAMS MAKES PUSH
February 4, 2003

Wadele Williams is hardly a household name on the national circuit, but as far as scoring point guards are concerned, he’s gotten a ringing endorsement from a couple of AAU coaches ­ neither of whom coached him this past summer.

The Columbia Central (Tenn.) senior scored 35 points in a win last Tuesday against Tullahoma and followed it up with a school-record 41 points on 16-of-22 shooting in a 75-52 victory over Lincoln. more....

GWYNN STARS FOR CUMMINGS
February 4, 2003

MEBANE, N.C. ­ Last year, dueling cousins Drew Williamson and JamesOn Curry made headlines in the showdown between Burlington (NC) Cummings and Mebane (NC) Eastern Alamance by each eclipsing the 40-point mark in the Cummings win.

Curry again upheld his end of the bargain Monday night, scoring 41 points, but with the future North Carolina walk-on Williamson hobbled by a knee injury, the spotlight was left open for the visitors. Enter 6-4 WF T.J. Gwynn. more....

LANGFORD WILL MAP OWN COURSE
February 4, 2003

Kevin Langford has heard the question plenty of times. That question is whether the Ft. Worth (TX) North Crowley junior will follow his older brother Keith (a sophomore wing) to Kansas.

But Langford, a 6-8 BF, is determined to make the best decision for himself, regardless of where his brother plays. more....

FAITH WINS OUT IN ROANOKE
February 3, 2003

ROANOKE, Va. -- Coach Rich Lambert of Hurt (VA) Faith Christian knows that Roanoke is turning into a good luck charm. For the second consecutive weekend, his club pulled out a win against a very tough opponent. This Saturday Faith beat Radford (VA) High, which had won 12 games in a row.

Several impressive underclassmen highlighted Saturday's action. more....

MONDAY TOUR: TUCKER RE-CONSIDERS
February 3, 2003

When Rico Tucker committed to San Diego this past summer, plenty of Southern California hoop junkies were shocked. The 5-11, 175-pound junior floor leader from San Diego High (Calif.) had interest from higher-profile schools, yet he chose to stay close to home to try and become the cornerstone of the USD program.

But Tucker has had a change of heart and is re-opening his recruiting process. more....

"IF YOU HAD TO PICK TWO, I THINK CHARLOTTE AND TEXAS TECH ARE PROBABLY LEADING. ..."
February 3, 2003

- Lon Morris assistant Rick Dotson, on C.J. Pigford
Read full story....

GANT A TOP SHOOTER
February 3, 2003

Time and space are abstract concepts for most folks. But for Marion (MA) Tabor Academy junior wing guard Khaliq Gant, time and space are all he needs to find the bottom of the net with his sweet jump shot.

There have been questions about Gant's footspeed and whether the 6-2 WG can get his shot and defend at the next level, but he's trying to answer those this season. So far, he has a solid list of schools on his trail. more....

OAK HILL ESCAPES AT SLAMFEST
February 2, 2003

ASHLAND, Va. -- There's always plenty of talk about the seniors at Oak Hill and how many of them have signed with Division I schools, but at the Super Saturday Slamfest it was a junior who bailed them out.

Big-time wing guard Isaiah Swann, a 6-2 monster lefty athlete, drilled a sweet three-pointer to give his team a the win over game Richmond (VA) Highland Springs. more....

"... MY BROTHER LAMAR PLAYS FOR OREGON STATE, AND I TOLD HIM IF YOU NEED HELP THERE I WILL COME.."
January 31, 2003

- Richard Hurd
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JAMES RULED INELIGIBLE
January 31, 2003

Lots of folks snickered when the Ohio High School Athletic Association recently ruled that LeBron James had not violated his eligibility status by receiving an extravagant SUV from his mother.

But no one was laughing on Friday, when the OHSAA suspended James for the remainder of the season after he allegedly accepted two high-end sports jerseys last Saturday at no charge from a clothing store. more....

FRIDAY TOUR: COMMITMENTS GALORE
January 31, 2003

Jay Jackson is tough. Bobby Knight is tough. They’ll make a great match. The Ouachita Parish (La.) 6-1, 185-pound senior PG, who has been playing with a broken bone in his right feet nearly all season, committed to Texas Tech after a visit to the school last weekend.

The other schools that expressed at least some interest were Louisiana-Monroe, Baylor, Colorado State, Louisiana Tech and Alabama. more....

CAIN IS MORE THAN ABLE
January 31, 2003

Jason Cain and his teammates at Philadelphia (PA) John Bartram have settled into a nice groove on the court. Winners of 13 consecutive games and the proud owners of a 17-3 overall record, things are rolling along for the guys from Philly.

Recruiting also is rolling along for Cain, who has seen his pursuit rise to the big-time level this winter. more....

THURSDAY TOUR: BIG MAN ALERT
January 30, 2003

Everyone knows all about James Lang, Brandon Bass and Linas Kleiza. They are the three top big men still on the board from the senior class. James Davis might not be in the same category, but the 7-0, 250-pounder is starting to get plenty of looks.

Davis has had a renewed work ethic that has helped him trim down from 286 pounds over the summer. more....

"BEING CLOSE TO MY FAMILY WILL BE A FACTOR ... I GOTTA HAVE MOMMA'S COOKING."
January 30, 2003

- Jason Thompson
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CRAWFORD WORKS EFFICIENTLY
January 30, 2003

He has a game like a quiet assassin. Tyler Crawford leaves you wondering afterward how he got over on you. He can beat you off the dribble. He can go out and knock down threes, or he can use his fine athleticism to beat you on the glass and down in the paint.

That balanced game has made the 6-4,190-pound Crawford a very dangerous player for Staunton (VA) Lee. more....

HIGH SCHOOL TOP 25 POLL
January 29, 2003

For the first time in a few weeks, there was stability atop the rankings this week. The top ten teams remain unchanged, while only one team (Christ the King) dropped out of the top 25.

But don't expect the lack of movement to last long. Three of the top five teams in our rankings, including Andrew Lavender's Columbus (OH) Brookhaven squad, will be in action in early February at the Primetime Shootout. more....

WEDNESDAY TOUR: SOPH DRAWS LOOKS
January 29, 2003

There’s a kid in upstate New York getting plenty of attention from some big-time programs. Coach K has been up to see him recently and so have a few other elite head coaches.

Christian Brothers Academy sophomore floor leader Greg Paulus has become one of the hottest commodities in the Class of 2005. The 6-1 PG attended the Nike All-American Camp last summer after earning his way though an outstanding performance at the Nike Jamboree. more....

"CINCINNATI, NOTRE DAME, OHIO STATE ARE MY TOP THREE RIGHT NOW."
January 28, 2003

- Matt Terwilliger
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TUESDAY TOUR: RICE LIKELY TO GO PREP
January 28, 2003

Maureece Rice broke Wilt Chamberlain’s scoring mark and became Philadelphia’s most prolific prep scorer earlier this season, but a combination of academics and other factors will contribute to him spending a year at prep school next season.

Rice still has interest from some mid-major programs, but it's most likely that he'll need an extra year to get eligible or Division I. more....

PINNOCK IMPROVING AT COASTAL
January 28, 2003

Unsigned senior wing J.R. Pinnock decided to leave his home state this year to play at Virginia Beach (VA) Coastal Christian. And Pinnock, an athletic 6-5 player who committed -- then later de-pledged -- from Wichita State in the fall, played very well at the recent Mountain State Coal Classic in West Virginia.

Pinnock hopes to return closer to home for college, but schools from other regions also are knocking on the door this winter. more....

TELFAIR TAKES WASHINGTON, BUT LOSES WAR
January 27, 2003

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Sebastian Telfair's image recovery received another salvo this past weekend, despite a 75-72 loss to nationally ranked Edgewater (FL) High. Telfair, the incredibly talented and hyped 5-11 PG from Brooklyn (NY) Lincoln, has rebounded from a disappointing summer by having a marvelous junior season.

Telfair's ultimate task, however, was to outplay rival point guard -- and Summer, 2002 nemesis -- Darius Washington. On Saturday night at the Bright Futures Shootout, he got his chance -- on Washington's turf. more....

MONDAY TOUR: NARMBAYE DECIDES
January 27, 2003

When Robert Taylor averaged 23 points and 13 rebounds per contest last season as a senior at Newton North (Mass.), most of his production came in the paint. That wouldn’t be much of a problem for a 6-9 big man looking to secure a D-1 college scholarship, but for a 6-5, 200-pound swingman it can be more of a negative.

This season, however, Taylor has dramatically improved his game at nearby Northfield Mount Hermon prep school. more....

TAYLOR IMPROVES STOCK
January 27, 2003

When Robert Taylor averaged 23 points and 13 rebounds per contest last season as a senior at Newton North (Mass.), most of his production came in the paint. That wouldn’t be much of a problem for a 6-9 big man looking to secure a D-1 college scholarship, but for a 6-5, 200-pound swingman it can be more of a negative.

This season, however, Taylor has dramatically improved his game at nearby Northfield Mount Hermon prep school. more....

NEW TOP 20 PREP SCHOOL POLL
January 24, 2003

Picking the top team in this week’s poll was no easy task.

Despite a loss to St. Benedict’s, we’re still going to keep Blair on top because of wins over Worcester and Laurinburg. Senior Loul Deng (Duke) scored 30 against Millbrook and Lawrenceville and had 16 points, 17 boards and 6 assists in the win over Hun. more....

FRIDAY TOUR: MCIVER RETURNS HOME
January 24, 2003

Robert McIver, the much-traveled former Georgetown commit, has come full circle. The 6-2 WG/PG, who started his high school career at New Haven Hillhouse (Conn.), is back playing for Tom Fleming this season.

McIver committed to the Hoyas a couple of years ago and has played at Redan (Ga.) and at Archbishop Carroll (D.C.) over the past couple seasons. more....

"... ONCE I'M HEALTHY AND IN SHAPE, I CAN PLAY WITH ANYBODY."
January 24, 2003

- Lawrence Carrier
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TONEY SHORT ON PUB, NOT PEDIGREE
January 24, 2003

Georgia is known for plenty of things: Peaches, Coke, the Braves, Michael Vick, the '96 Olympics, and most recently it's been the home for some of the nation's top high school basketball talent.

One underrated junior in Georgia is Channing Toney, the talented son of a former NBA champion. more....

GUARD MAKES USC'S DAY
January 24, 2003

After breaking off a commitment to Nebraska during the fall recruiting period, things were quiet on the recruiting front for Pooh Day for several months.

But the situation for Day, a 6-0 PG from Kansas City (MO) Paseo, changed drastically when Southern Cal head man Henry Bibby took a trip to Kansas City and tendered the super athletic six footer a scholarship offer just before the end of 2002. Day is now the newest member of the Trojan's recruiting class. more....

THURSDAY TOUR: INJURY CONTINUES TO SIDELINE PRUITT
January 23, 2003

When Shaun Pruitt went down with another injury to his right foot prior to the start of this season, the Aurora (IL) West junior forward figured he’d be out for a couple weeks.

It’s already been more than two months and Pruitt just started walking without a cast. more....

JONELIUNAS CHOOSING CAREFULLY
January 23, 2003

In the right system, Paulius Joneliunas will make a big impact in college.

The 6-10, 255-pound Lithuanian native isn't cut out for an up-tempo, fast-paced program that likes to run and gun. Instead, he'll need to go somewhere that can take advantage of his low-post skills in a halfcourt offense. more....

"BALL STATE, BAYLOR, LOUISIANA TECH AND OKLAHOMA ARE ALL VERY INTERESTED."
January 23, 2003

- Seward County assistant Swede Trenkle, on Donnell Allick
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GAY JOLLY DESPITE INJURY
January 23, 2003

Wearing bulky adhesive tape on the middle two fingers of his shooting hand left many people wondering if 6-7, 205-pound JR WF Rudy Gay would be less than 100 percent for Baltimore (MD) Archbishop Spalding at the Flyin' to the Hoop Invitational.

But Gay played, alright, and in particular he shot the ball extremely well from the perimeter. more....

SMITH TRYING TO FIT IN
January 23, 2003

It's not easy trying to co-exist in the same backcourt with Gary Ervin and Will Blaylock, but Carlos Smith has done a good job learning to be flexible.

The 5-11, 170-pound Smith, who is the nephew of former University of Georgia star Litterial Green, averaged 22 points and four assists last season at Tri Cities High just outside of Atlanta. more....

TOP 25 HIGH SCHOOL POLL
January 22, 2003

Check out our latest high school poll. First things first: Despite playing a brutal schedule, LeBron James and SVSM continue to hog the No. 1 position in the standings.

There was a shakeup elsewhere in the top five, however, as both Oak Hill Academy and St. Benedict's prep fell in the past week. McQuaid Jesuit, led by West Virginia-bound guard Tyler Relph, continued its surprising play, winning the McDonald's Classic against another very strong field. more....

"(TEXAS, KENTUCKY, KANSAS AND OKLAHOMA) WOULD BE MY TOP FOUR."
January 22, 2003

- Marshall Brown
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DAILY TOUR: JACKSON FIGHTS PAIN
January 22, 2003

In need of a tough, hard-nosed point guard who can score? How about Jay Jackson.

The 6-1, 185-pound senior floor leader from Monroe Parish (La.) has been playing nearly the entire season with a broken bone in his right foot, but he refuses to sit out and let the injury heal. Instead, Jackson has helped lead his team to a 25-3 mark and is averaging 29 points per game after a 37-point outburst Tuesday night. more....

RECRUITING MENSAH A SMART MOVE
January 22, 2003

If you'd guessed that 6-1 senior WG Kojo Mensah of Brooklyn (NY) Bishop Loughlin would make the six-player all-tournament team at the Flyin' to the Hoop, then you'd be worthy of the finest sports book in Vegas.

Mensah was viewed by some as nothing more than an afterthought in New York, but his play in Ohio definitely won a lot of new supporters. more....

HILL HAS MOUNTAINOUS UPSIDE
January 22, 2003

It isn't a surprise to see college recruiters roaming the hallways of Blue Springs (MO) High looking for athletes. Located just a stone's throw away from Kansas City, Blue Springs is a football powerhouse.

And while 6-7 junior BF Darius Hill is a talented wide receiver (interest from Kansas an LSU) on the Wildcats football team, it's his ability on the hardwood that has started to bring a nice mixture of mid and high-major basketball coaches out to Blue Springs. more....

MORRIS MAY NEED FIVE
January 22, 2003

Donovan Morris is hoping that everything falls into place and he's playing college ball at this time next year, but the better bet is that the former El Cajon (Calif.) star is back repeating his senior season at Winchendon (Mass.).

The 6-3, 190-pound WG, who averaged 26 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists per game last season en route to winning MVP honors in the San Andreas League, is still working to try and qualify to become eligible for college ball next season. more....

JUAN PALACIOS: A CLOSER LOOK
January 22, 2003

After his team won the Flyin' To The Hoop Invitational in Ohio on Monday, junior Juan Diego Palacios of Centereach (NY) Our Savior capped off a big tournament by taking home the MVP trophy.

Palacios, a 6-8, 250-pound BF from Colombia who is affectionately called "Tay-Joe", had 24 points and six in Our Savior's 65-45 upset win over top-five Newark (NJ) St. Benedict's. more....

FLYIN' TO THE HOOP WRAPUP
January 22, 2003

While Centereach (NY) Our Savior was dusting off Newark (NJ) St. Benedict's in the championship game, other action concluded in consolation play as well as the four-team Wright Brothers bracket, which consisted of four Ohio high school teams. more....

DAILY TOUR: GUARD GAINES GROUND
January 21, 2003

Darius Washington came in with the national reputation and the top billing, but Sundiata Gaines went home with the MVP trophy and the title.

Gaines, a 6-1, 190-pound junior guard at Briarwood (NY) Archbishop Molloy, showcased his new-found perimeter game by knocking down all three of his attempts from long distance in an 81-70 victory over Edgewater (FL) High in the title game of the Hall of Fame Invitational. more....

"BEING 6-2 DEFINITELY HASN'T HELPED ME AS A COMBO GUARD."
January 21, 2003

- Kenny Jones
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LEBRON THRILLS PACKED HOUSE
January 21, 2003

GREENSBORO, N.C. -- When you've single-handedly been responsible for your high school team's games getting broadcast on national television, playing in front of a full house must seem anticlimactic.

One thing is for sure: The state record-setting 16,000-plus fans who flocked to the Greensboro Coliseum on Monday didn't adversely impact LeBron James. And they didn't leave disappointed, either. more....

WHITE STATION WHITEWASHES FOES
January 21, 2003

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Let's face it: Memphis (TN) White Station owns the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions. This year's sojourn to Springfield was the Spartans' third trip in the last four years, and after knocking off Bronx (NY) St. Raymond's they claimed their third consecutive TOC title.

Tennessee signee Dane Bradshaw didn't put up huge numbers, but he was very impressive for the winners. more....

OAK HILL FALLS AT FLYIN' TO THE HOOP
January 21, 2003

VANDALIA, Ohio -- In what clearly was the marquee matchup of the inaugural Flyin' to the Hoop Invitational, Durham (NC) Mt. Zion pulled away late from Mouth of Wilson (VA) Oak Hill for a 60-47 victory.

In addition to Mt. Zion's big win, fans were treated to a showdown between elite wings Von Wafer and J.R. Smith. more....

"WHEN I GET SOME TIME TO THINK ABOUT IT I'LL PICK.."
January 20, 2003

- Kalen Grimes
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MONDAY TOUR: BIG MAN RETURNS
January 20, 2003

After a year in hiatus, Terry Licorish is back ­ and it won't be long before the high-majors start going after him yet again.

The 6-9, 235-pound Toronto native landed at Notre Dame Prep (Mass.) on Saturday and should see his first game action for Bill Barton's club this week. Licorish becomes a free agent of sorts for the third time in the last couple years. more....

WHITE STATION KICK-APOOS LOCALS AT TOC
January 20, 2003

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- At the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions this weekend, 9, 023 fans poured into the John Q. Hammons Center at Southwest Missouri State for big-time hoops action. Perhaps the most anticipated game featured tough Memphis (TN) White Station against local heroes Springfield (MO) Kickapoo.

In that contest, Memphis (TN) White Station got a great all-around game from Tennessee signee Dane Bradshaw to defeat local power Springfield (MO) Kickapoo. more....

FRIDAY TOUR: LANG LIKES A FEW
January 17, 2003

When James Lang committed to Louisville late in the summer, he forgot one thing: He didn't consult his mother.

The 6-10, 305-pound Birmingham (AL) Central Park Christian center backed off his pledge to Rick Pitino and has opted to wait until after his senior season concludes before either picking a college ­ or heading straight to the NBA. more....

"I WOULD SAY (NOTRE DAME, INDIANA, STANFORD, VILLANOVA, N.C. STATE) ARE PRETTY MUCH MY FAVORITES."
January 17, 2003

- Rob Kurz
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BIG TEN SNARES BIG NAMES
January 17, 2003

The Big Ten finished third among the 31 Division I basketball conferences in recruiting last fall, trailing only the SEC and (by a narrow margin) Conference USA.

Wisconsin was one of the schools that improved its situation the most, landing All-American in-state center Brian Butch. more....

WEBBER MAKES MOST OF MAJOR MINUTES
January 17, 2003

Albert Webber knew that he needed to take a different approach in this, his second season at Durham (NC) Mt. Zion Christian. Last year Webber came off the bench and played limited minutes, so he never really found his niche.

But Webber has taken advantage of his increased playing time this season. The talented junior is shooting the ball very well for Mt. Zion. more....

THURSDAY TOUR: GEORGE RE-OPENS
January 16, 2003

Unsigned senior frontcourt guys have become the hottest thing since Flutie Flakes cereal hit the shelves in Buffalo a few years back. One guy who's back on the open market is Chicago native Reggie George.

The 6-9, 230-pound Notre Dame Prep (Mass.) forward committed to Iowa State over a month ago, but after having a chance to think about it, he's opted to re-open his recruitment. more....

"I REALLY LIKE OREGON STATE AND GEORGE WASHINGTON...."
January 16, 2003

- Rayshawn Reed
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ANDERSON BREAKING THROUGH
January 16, 2003

After a very strong tour of the club circuit last spring and summer, Jamaal Anderson entered his junior season at Little Rock (AR) Parkview with some specific goals in mind.

"I have really worked on my jump shot tremendously and also on my ball-handling skills," the 6-5, 210-pound WF/BF said. more....

UPDATED HIGH SCHOOL POLL
January 15, 2003

Here's another look at the top 25 high school teams in the nation. Some previous top-10 ranked clubs fell in major upsets last week, as conference rivals successfully knocked off their nationally-touted competition.

One team that rolled in last weekend's Duke Challenge was Rockville (MD) Montrose Christian. Montrose is led by unsigned senior stud Linas Kleiza. more....

"THIS SEASON I AM GOING TO THE BASKET MORE...."
January 15, 2003

- Chris Lofton
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WEDNESDAY TOUR: BRAZILIANS SET FOR DEBUT
January 15, 2003

With the emergence of 6-11, 250-pound NBA rookie Nene Hilario, the new wave is Brazilians coming over to play in the United States.

Laurinburg Institute boasts one of the best in 6-9, 215-pound junior forward Hatila De Souza, but Coastal Christian will likely have a pair of Brazilians making the U.S. debuts at this weekend's Flyin' To the Hoop in Vandalia, Ohio. more....

WILLIAMS GETTING PLENTY OF ATTENTION
January 15, 2003

Players who don't live on the East Coast sometimes don't get as much attention from scouts and the mainstream media. That's especially true for those who live in or near Seattle, which continues to produce an alarming level of talent but fails to get much of its deserved recognition.

But a lack of exposure isn't a problem for junior Marvin Williams, who is widely hailed from coast to coast as one of America's best prospects in the Class of 2004. more....

"...ARKANSAS STATE AND SOUTH ALABAMA WILL BE THE FIRST TWO (VISITS) THAT I TAKE...."
January 14, 2003

- Parnell Smith
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TUESDAY TOUR: MOORE AVAILABLE
January 14, 2003

Cheyenne Moore has been wavering about his early pledge to Georgetown for the last couple of months, but a trip to Louisiana helped make up his mind.

Moore, one of the more underrated players in the Class of 2004, stayed with his father in Louisiana over the holiday break and both of his parents agreed that he rushed his decision to commit to Georgetown. more....

SMITH, ALMOND GET THEIR REVENGE
January 13, 2003

POWDER SPRINGS, Ga. -- With seconds remaining in the game, Powder Springs (GA) McEachern's public address announcer warned rowdy fans not to rush the floor. But the fans did anyway. After all, their team had won -- and avenged an earlier loss -- against Marietta (GA) Wheeler, the No. 1 ranked team in the state, by a 91-85 count.

Led by the powerful scoring duo of senior Morris Almond and junior Josh Smith, McEachern (9-5) beat Wheeler in a shootout that wasn't decided until the final period. more....

"...I DON'T WANT TO BE IN THE COLD WEATHER (IN COLLEGE)."
January 13, 2003

- Khaliq Gant
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GREEN, SCALES QUIETLY DRAW ACCLAIM
January 13, 2003

The South Kent School is going through transitions, making the move to a Class B school prior to the season and bringing on interim head coach Tom Connors from Dallas just a week or so ago.

The team fielded just six players in a loss earlier this week to Tabor Academy (Mass.) and at least two of them are little-known forwards who could certainly help someone in the D-1 ranks. more....

ROUNDUP: BYNUM HEADS EAST; ECHOLS ON THE MOVE
January 13, 2003

Arizona guard Will Bynum is heading clear across the country, from the West coast and the Pac-10 to the East coast and the ACC.

Bynum, a sophomore who was released from his scholarship obligations last week, has chosen to play the remainder of his eligibility for Paul Hewitt at Georgia Tech. more....

TOP 20 PREP SCHOOL POLL
January 10, 2003

Well, here we are, full swing into the prep season, and there's already been a large number of happenings -- on and off the court -- that have affected the rankings since our last poll.

Despite a hard-fought loss this week to St. Patrick High School, Charlie Villanueva and Luol Deng have kept Blair Academy in the No. 1 position. more....

"...I THINK I'M GOING TO DO SOMETHING IN THE NEXT COUPLE OF WEEKS."
January 10, 2003

- Alex Weekes
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ROUNDUP: MIZZOU GETS CONLEY
January 10, 2003

In one of two major transfers announced this week, Missouri picked up the services of Jason Conley, a 6-5 wing who led the nation in scoring last season as a freshmen at VMI.

Conley scored 29.3 points per game last year and was averaging 22.2 points and 7.3 rebounds this season through 10 games. He picked the Tigers over interest from Kentucky, West Virginia and others. more....

SCHOOLS EAGER TO WORK ON THE MORROW
January 10, 2003

One of last weekend's big stars at the Dell Curry Invitational was Anthony Morrow. One look at Morrow's game and you quickly see that offense is his strong suit.

The talented junior guard shoots the ball very well and with excellent range, averaging 22 points and six rebounds per game so far this year at Charlotte (NC) Latin and nailing loads of three-pointers. more....

LOVE CHRISTIAN CLOSES DOORS
January 9, 2003

It was Berkshire (Fla.) and Christian Faith Center (N.C.) last year. Two more prep schools have folded because of finances this season.

Milford Academy (Conn.) closed its doors about a month ago while Love Christian (N.C.) shut down its school and basketball program after the Holiday break. more....

"...THIS YEAR I FEEL THAT NO ONE CAN STOP ME."
January 9, 2003

- James Mays
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TUBBS' GAME IS NO CROCK
January 9, 2003

After a busy summer in 2002 with the Georgia Stars, in which he played a supporting role for a very talented team, Winston Tubbs is ready to grab his own headlines. Tubbs, a 6-5 BF/WF at Marrietta (GA) High, is averaging 12 rebounds a game for an 8-5 squad.

Tubbs' experience with the Stars has boosted his play this year at Marietta. He now has a very good first step and has a keen nose for the basketball on the glass, using his sure, strong hands to corral rebounds from all directions. more....

TURNER PICKS KENT STATE
January 9, 2003

Point guard Rashad Turner, who played at Peekskill High (N.Y.) and briefly at Bridgton Academy (Maine) and Maine Central Institute, has committed to Kent State.

According to the Journal News, Turner chose Kent State over Manhattan and Maine. more....

NICHOLS STEPS UP FOR NOTRE DAME
January 8, 2003

Shane Nichols was an academic qualifier out of high school, so his motivation for spending a fifth year at Fitchburg (MA) Notre Dame was to increase his college interest. And so far, so good, as Nichols is having a very good season for Bill Barton's club.

Nichols, a 6-1,187-pound WG/PG who played in Virginia last year with younger brother Darris, is averaging roughly 15 points a game for 12-3 Notre Dame. more....

"IF HE TAKES A YEAR OF PREP, HE'S A MID-MAJOR."
January 8, 2003

- Rick Barrett, on Ben Smith
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ST. V. KEEPS NO. 1 SPOT IN POLL
January 7, 2003

After a rough and tumble win against Mater Dei on TV last weekend, LeBron James and St. Vincent-St. Mary retain the top spot in this week's high school poll.

Springfield Kickapoo out of Missouri didn't have a whole lot of hype coming into the season, but fine play from Spencer Laurie, Deven Mitchell and Anthony Tolliver has carried the talented club -- which has battled strong competition -- to a perfect record thus far. more....

BRIGHT, SMITH HAVE A PLAN
January 7, 2003

Roy Bright and Montez Smith aren't playing for Durham (NC) Northern anymore, but it's been anything but a vacation for both since quitting the basketball team three weeks ago.

The dynamic pair remain enrolled in school and work out privately each day. They also have destinations in mind for where they'll finish their prep careers. more....

"(BALTIMORE) WAS A BAD ENVIRONMENT FOR ME."
January 7, 2003

- Richard Dorsey
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THIAM DRAWING HEAVY INTEREST
January 6, 2003

Now that the post-Christmas events have wrapped, the national picture has become clearer. Those who wanted to write off Oak Hill this season were premature, as the Warriors regained stride to win a pair of major titles. And that, of course, further enhances St. Vincent-St. Mary's blowout win over Oak Hill last month.

St. Benedict's remains in second place, after winning their divison of the Slam Dunk to the Beach. Junior guard J.R. Smith was a big factor in their success. more....

"ONE YEAR MORE (OF A POSTSEASON BAN) REALLY WOULDN'T CHANGE MY MIND AT ALL."
January 6, 2003

- Courtney Sims, on possible NCAA sanctions for Michigan
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TOP 25 HIGH SCHOOL POLL
January 3, 2003

Now that the post-Christmas events have wrapped, the national picture has become clearer. Those who wanted to write off Oak Hill this season were premature, as the Warriors regained stride to win a pair of major titles. And that, of course, further enhances St. Vincent-St. Mary's blowout win over Oak Hill last month.

St. Benedict's remains in second place, after winning their divison of the Slam Dunk to the Beach. Junior guard J.R. Smith was a big factor in their success. more....

GALINDO AN EMERGING TALENT
January 3, 2003

Miami Christian's Guillermo Diaz has all the athleticism, but St. Benedict's (N.J.) junior forward Alex Galindo showed at the Slam Dunk to the Beach that he may be every bit as talented in his own way.

The 6-7, 195-pound Galindo, playing on a team that is arguably the most talented in the entire country, showed he could be one of the elite players in the loaded Class of 2004 with his versatility and shooting ability. more....

"LOCATION REALLY DOESN'T MATTER."
January 3, 2003

- Kevin Mickens
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MASON WORKING TOWARD OFFERS
January 3, 2003

Brian Mason got a chance to showcase his game in front of plenty of coaches last week in Delaware, and the Laurinburg Prep (N.C.) senior had an up-and-down tournament.

While his team dropped all three games, the 6-4 senior swingman had a breakout first game, finishing with 22 points, six rebounds and three assists in a loss to St. Andrew's (R.I.). more....

MOORE HAS HIGH MOTIVATION
January 3, 2003

Chris Moore has a sour taste in his mouth from last year that's serving as a motivational tool this season.

"My goals this year from a team standpoint are to make it past the second round in the state tournament," Moore said. "We were the No. 1 seed last year and went down early, and that was disappointing." more....

DAY SHINES AT MIZZOU EVENT
January 2, 2003

LIBERTY, Mo. -- Each and every Holiday season, fans of Kansas City high school basketball eagerly anticipate the Bank Midwest Holiday Classic, held on the campus of William Jewell College in Liberty, Mo.

Unlike the more unified tournaments seen at some venues, the Jewell Tourney features three different divisions, Patterson, Cardinal and Nelson.

And on a night of stars, perhaps none shone brighter in any of the divisions than Nelson MVP Quinton "Pooh" Day. more....

"IF IT CAME DOWN TO IT, I WILL PROBABLY PICK SOMETHING CLOSE TO HOME."
January 2, 2002

- Paul Delaney
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WILLIAMS DOMINATES DEEP SOUTH CLASSIC
January 2, 2003

SNELLVILLE, Ga. -- Super sophomore Louis Williams stole the show at this week's Deep South Classic. The 6-1 combo guard at Snellville South Gwinnett scored 21 points and dished out five assists in the final to lift his squad to the championship over Brookwood High. more....

WILFLEY KEEPS SHOOTING UP
January 2, 2003

Ross Wilfley has several appealing aspects to his game that make him an intriguing late prospect from the Class of 2003. First of all, Wilfley is playing in only his second year of organized basketball. Second, Wilfley has grown eight inches since his sophomore year, sprouting from 6-3 just two years ago, to his current height of 6-11. more....

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