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TOP 25 WORLD PREMIEREBy PrepStars.com staff
PrepStars.com is taking a crack at the first-ever, comprehensive Top 25 AAU Poll and we’re ready for all the complaints. As you can see, we did our homework but we know that anything can and does happen when it comes to summer hoop, so expect some roster changes in the coming months and look for major upsets to occur on a regular basis. These rankings obviously are based on individual talent, but we all know that team chemistry, defense and unselfish play are the keys to actually winning games. Who can forget the dramatic run made by Billy Shepherd Sports at the Las Vegas Big Time last summer? But for now, at least, you have to love the star-studded rosters boasted by the D.C. Blue Devils and Atlanta Celtics, who both are loaded in the frontcourt and backcourt. The Jackson Tigers trail that powerful pair, and the players' great familiarity with each other should pay off big. The next three weeks undoubtedly will cause a dramatic shuffle in these rankings. This weekend is the prestigious and compact Boo Williams Invitational, which will be followed in consecutive weeks by the Las Vegas Easter Classic and then the Kingwood Classic in Houston. The poll was compiled by PrepStars.com's five-member panel. If you have complaints, suggestions or corrections, please e-mail Jeff Goodman at JGood67213@aol.com. 1. D.C. Blue Devils (Adelphi, Md.) Coach: Rob Jackson
Starters: G Isaiah Swann (6-2, 187, SR); F James Gist (6-7, 205, SR); WG-WF Cheyenne Moore (6-5, 175, SR); G Eric Price (6-1, JR) Others: F Davis Nwankwo (6-8, 220, SR); BF-C Peter Prowitt (6-10, 245, SR); SG Marcus Ginyard (6-4, 175, JR); C Roy Hibbert (7-1, SR); G Justin Castleberry (6-2, JR); G Brad Ferrell (6-5, SR); G Tywon Lawson (5-10, SOPH) Strength: Depth
Notes: The Blue Devils second team may be as talented, if not more so, than many teams' starting five, and that’s why they get our nod for the top team in the land. They have guards, forwards, offensive players, shot-blockers and anything else you’d want. Johnson is in demand by Duke, UNC, Florida and Maryland while the Terps are also in pursuit of Swann. Prowitt has committed to Stanford and Price and Ginyard are two of the top juniors in the nation. Perhaps the only thing that can beat this team is a total collapse of team chemstry. Opening Major Tourney: Boo Williams 2. Atlanta Celtics (Atlanta, Ga.) Coach: Wallace Prather
Starters: WF Josh Smith (6-9, 205, SR); C Randolph Morris (6-11, 235, SR); SG Dwayne Day (6-5, 185, SR); PG Montavious Waters (6-3, SR) Others: G Jarvis Crittendon (6-4, SOPH); BF Ousmane Konate (6-8, 240, SR); F Michael Walker (6-7, 185, SR); BF Warren McClendon (6-6, 250, SR); WG Quay Marbury (6-5, SR); F Desmond Williams (6-6, SR); G Eddie Dawson (6-1, SR) Strength: Size
Notes: Howard, Smith and Morris comprise one of the best frontcourts in the history of AAU basketball. The Celtics can bring in even more in Konate, who committed to Missouri and is rehabbing from a leg injury, off the bench. Prather has plenty of quality guards at his disposal, but the key will be keeping these guys interested game after game. Waters will have the most difficult job in AAU basketball to keep all three guys on the frontline happy. It won’t be easy. Opening Tourney: Texas Classic (Houston, Texas) 3. Jackson Tigers (Jackson, Miss.) Coach: Larry Stamps
Starters: BF Charles Rhodes (6-8, 220, SR); PG Charlie White (5-11, SR); SG Bobby Clark (6-5, 180, SR); WF Charles Thomas (6-7, 210, SR) Others: BF Mekel Marshall (6-8, 240, SR); WG-WF Kevin McCoy (6-4, SR); PG Bryant Spillers (6-2, SR); G Marves Fairley (6-2, SR); G Michael Hoover (6-2, SR) Strength: Size
Notes: The chemistry should be there with Rhodes, Clark and Thomas all playing together at Jackson Lanier. Jefferson may be the top player in the 2004 class while White is an underrated floor leader who led Provine High to the state crown this past season. Rhodes is versatile and couldn’t play this past season after transferring in from Forest, but he could be a top 25-caliber player when this summer is over. Marshall is coming back from a knee injury and gives the team another big body. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams 4. Michigan Hurricanes (Flint, Mich.) Coach: Chris Grier
Starters: BF Marquise Gray (6-6, 200, SR); WG James Hardy (6-5, 180, SR); PG Churchill Odia (6-5, 170, SR); C Goran Sutton (6-10, SR) Others: WF Miguel Hall (6-3, SR); SG Brian Moten (6-4, SR); Tunj Soroye (6-10, 240, SR); F Derrick Nelson (6-5, SR); WG Courtney Jennings (6-3, SR) Strength: Versatility
Notes: Grier has gone out of state to pick up some of the top players in the nation. Bright comes via North Carolina and is one of the top wings in the country while Odia and Soroye played at Montrose Christian (Md.). Hardy lives a couple hours away in Ft. Wayne, Ind., and is a terrific wing guard, and Gray (Michigan State) is a rebounding machine whose offensive game is improving. Hall gives the team an Anthony Mason-type off the bench. Opening Tourney: Texas Classic (Houston) 5. St. Louis Eagles (St. Louis, Mo.) Coach: Eric Long
Starters: BF Matt Shaw (6-7, 220, SR); WF/WG Tommy Liddell (6-5, 180, SR); WG Xavier Price (6-3, 180, SR); PG Monroe Douglass Jr. (5-11, 160, SR) Others: WG/WF Terry Evans (6-4, 185, SR); BF/C Drew Richards (6-9, 215, SR); PG/WG Aaron Jackson (6-3, 170, SR); BF Tyler Hansborough (6-8, 210, JR); WG Cameron Murkey (6-3, 190, SR); PG Tommie House (5-10, 170, SR); PG/WG Trevor Stone (6-2, 170, SR); WG J.B. Jones (6-2, 170, SR) Strength: Athleticism, depth
Notes: Fresh off last year's Super Showcase title, this could be one of the most talented groups the Eagles have had. Loaded with athletes galore on the wing and underrated guards like Douglass, the Eagles will be anchored by Grimes, who is an absolute beast when motivated. Price and Evans are top-100 kids. Keep an eye out for Richards, who could emerge as a sleeper this summer. Hansborough is a very talented and skilled inside/outside guy who could emerge as one of the top 25 prospects in the Class of 2005. There is also a chance that the Eagles could have the services of 6-6 Kansas City native Brandon Rush for a few events. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams 6. Alabama Lasers (Huntsville, Ala.) Coach: Wig Pearson/Ronnie Flakes
Starters: F Richard Hendrix (6-8, JR); PG Tank Beavers (6-1, SR); G Ron Steele (6-2, SR); G Courtney Beasley (6-3, SR) Others: C Yamene Coleman (6-10, 220, JR); F Demarre Carroll (6-6, SR); G Antonio Odoms (6-3, SR); F Victor Fryer (6-6, SR); PG Marcus Young (5-10, SR); F Wesley Jones (6-7, SR); F Rafael Brown (6-7, SR); BF/C Charlie Parker (6-8, SR); PG Ryan Mashburn (6-0, SR); PG Keagan Bell (5-11, FR) Strength: Point guard play
Notes: White is a power forward who can mix it up underneath and also step up and knock down the 15-footer. He’s got Alabama, Indiana, Florida, UNC, Auburn and Miss. State among his finalists. Hendrix is one of the top forwards from the 2005 class and should provide White plenty of help on the interior. Steele, who played with the Alabama Ice last summer, is a big addition and one of the more underrated floor leaders in the nation. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams 7. Rotary Select (Seattle, Wash.) Coach: Adam Sedlik Starters: PG Lyndale Burleson (6-2, 175, SR); BF Josh Heytvelt (6-8, 205, SR); WG Rodney Stuckey (6-4, SR); WF/WG Marcus Williams (6-6, JR) Others: F Andrew Strait (6-8, SR); WF John Rogers (6-5, SR); PG Jordan Sutton (5-10, JR); WG/WF Terrence Williams (6-5, JR) Strength: Experience; Scoring
Notes: It’s hard to imagine a better 1-2-3 punch than Williams, Burleson and Heytvelt. Williams, who reminds some Danny Manning back in his Kansas days, can do it all and all he cares about is winning. His final six are UNC, Washington, Arizona, Kansas, Oregon and Duke. Look for Stuckey to emerge as quality role player and Marcus Williams should provide plenty of help as well. Burleson is quick and has improved his decision-making in the past year since transferring from O’Dea to Franklin High. Opening Tourney: Texas Classic (Houston) 8. S.C. All-Stars (Los Angeles, Calif.) Coach: Pat Barrett/Reggie Theus
Starters: C David Burgess (6-10, 250, SR); F Amir Johnson (6-9, JR); PG Vincent Oliver (6-2, SR); WF Marcel Jones (6-7, 205, SR) Others: BF Chris Henry (6-8, 210, SR); WG Marcus Johnson (6-4, JR); PG Marcus Everett (6-1, SR) Strength: Balance
Notes: We’re giving Barrett’s crew the nod as the team to beat in Cali. Burgess gives the team a legitimate big man who knows his role while Afflalo, being recruited by plenty of high-majors including Kansas and Louisville, can score with anyone out West. Johnson is a talented young forward and Jones can light it up. Oliver played with Omar Wilkes at Loyola this past season and Johnson gives the team another scoring threat off the bench. Opening Tourney: Las Vegas Easter Classic (Nev.) 9. Team Texas (Rowlett, Texas) Coach: Darryl Horton/Wes Grandstaff
Starters: PG Jason Horton (6-1, 170, SR); WF Rell Porter (6-7, 187, SR); BF Kevin Langford (6-8, 205, SR); WG Collin Dennis (6-3, SR) Others: G Evan Risher (6-2, SR); G Antwaun Harris (6-2, SR); WG-WF Matt Holland (6-5, SR); Pavlos Strength: Shooting
Notes: The inside-out combo of Horton and Aldridge could be unmatched anywhere on the circuit. Both are unselfish while Porter and Langford, the younger brother of Kansas swingman Keith Langford, will get a chance to show what they can do playing big-time minutes. Watch for Dennis, a terrific shooter from Richland Hills who will also fill in at the point when Horton needs a break. These guys are much better offensively than a year ago, but may lack that bruiser inside. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams 10. Tim Thomas Playaz (Paterson, N.J.) Coach: Jimmy Salmons
Starters: BF Stanley Branch (6-7, 210, SR); WF Dave McClure (6-5, 195, SR); PG Sean Singletary (5-10, 170, PG); BF Taj Finger (6-8, 200, SR) Others: PG Courtney Nelson (6-1, 160, SR); PG Jamual Warren (6-2, 190, SR); BF Joe Dyson (6-9, 245, SR); WF Jordan Fowler (6-5, 190, SR); F Alex Galindo (6-8, SR) Strength: Quickness
Notes: This year’s Playaz squad may not be very big, but Salmons’ team can flat-out run. With Singletary running things, there will be more open looks for guys like Smith and McClure both of whom have attracted interest from Duke. Branch is an athletic shot-blocker, but won’t be able to play with Salmons full-time because of his age, and Warren can also push the ball as quickly as almost anyone. The key will be whether they can handle themselves on the glass. Opening Tourney: Hosted (and won) Spring Fest; Providence Jam Fest; Texas Classic (Houston) 11. Southeast Pump ‘N Run (Huntsville, Alabama) Coach: Mark Komara/Ronnie Stapler
Starters: G Glenn Miles (6-5, 190, SR); WF Tyler Smith (6-6, 200, JR); Cyrus McGowen (6-11, 235, JR); PG Jonathan Wallace (6-2, 175, SR) Others: SG Shay Shannon (6-3, 185, SR); SG Casey Stafford (6-3, 170, SR); PG Eric Howard (6-0, 160, SR); C F Dusty Moore (6-8, 225, JR); SG Jarvis Hill (6-2, JR); BF Joey Cameron (6-9, 225, SOPH) Strength: Versatility
Notes: Williams is tough inside, but he’ll be going against 7-footers at times and that could be asking too much of the physical power forward. He’s looking at Florida, Alabama and Duke as his top three. Miles can play a few different positions and both Stafford and Shannon give Pump ‘N Run quality outside shooters. Smith and Chase are both among the top rising juniors in the nation. Opening Tourney: Texas Classic (Houston) 12. Tallahassee Wildcats (Tallahassee, Fla.) Coach: John Adkins
Starters: PG Taurean Green (6-0, 165, SR); WF Cornelius Ingram (6-5, 200, SR); PG Alex Gordon (6-0, 160, SR); C Jason Bennett (7-1, SOPH) Others: F Michael Lee (6-7, SR); G Jon Mason (6-3, SR); F Ken Mitchell (6-7, SR) Strength: Quickness
Notes: Adkins doesn’t have a lot of size with this group, so they’ll get out and run. Washington will do what he does best, which is score. Green and Gordon can both play the point while Ingram, a two-sport star who is being recruited by all the in-state schools for both football and basketball, will need to be physical and hit the boards. Bennett won’t have to score much, but he’s the only legitimate big man and will need to stay out of foul trouble. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams 13. Riverside Church (New York, N.Y.) Coach: Kenny Pretlow/Hakiem Yahmadi
Starters: C Derrick Caracter (6-9, 270, SOPH); SG Keith Benjamin (6-2, SR); BF Tyrell Biggs (6-6, 270, JR); PF Arturo Dubois (6-6, 230, SR) Others: WF Dexter Gray (6-5, SR); PG Desean Gist (6-2, SR); BF John Oates (6-9, 245, SR) Strength: Size
Notes: Price is an underrated guard who can score with the best of them and is being looked at by numerous Big East schools and some ACC programs as well. Caracter is a man among boys who played last season at St. Pat’s and is just a rising sophomore. Biggs and Oates a pair of Don Bosco players give the team added beef up front while Benjamin, who comes from the same school as UConn’s Ben Gordon, should form a formidable backcourt with Price. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams 14. YOMCA (Memphis, Tenn.) Coach: Keith Easterwood/Bobby Dodd
Starters: F Shawne Williams (6-8, 215, SR); SG Charles Hampton (6-2, 180, SR); F Jerrell Houston (6-8, 200, SR); WG-WF Jonathan Ball (6-4, SR) Others: BF Keiron Jackson (6-9, 220, SR); BF Frank Holmes (6-8, 205, SR); WF David Jackson (6-5, SR); WG/WF Rorey Lawrence (6-5, SR) Strength: Quickness, depth
Notes: Allen, who likes Memphis, Tennessee and UConn, will need to play more in control and distribute the ball to the plethora of offensive options on the floor. Hampton is a two-sport star who can stack up against anyone athletically while Williams is a terrific shooter who could stay home in Memphis for college. Easterwood expects big things from Ball, who was on the state title club at White Station. Houston and Jackson are both athletic big men at Memphis East. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams 15. Nike Team Florida (St. Petersburg, Fla.) Coach: Tom Topping
Starters: WF Keith Brumbaugh (6-9, JR); C Alexander "Sasha" Kaun (6-11, 245, SR) PG Trey Hopkins (6-1, SR); BF Andrew Reed (6-8, SR) Others: PG Walter Hodge (6-0, JR); BF-C Robinson Louisme (6-8, 255, SR); F Zaronn Cann (6-6, 220, SR); F Greg Carr (6-6, SR) Strength: Frontline
Notes: Rich, who likes Florida, Cincinnati, Texas, Oklahoma and UConn, is a hard-nosed athlete who has tremendous leadership skills and Brumbaugh and Cann have both played against older competition for the past two years. The key has been the addition of both Kaun and Louisme, both of which give the squad legitimate low-post options and rebounders. Look for Carr to surprise people with his perimeter play and passing abilities. Hopkins and Hodge will battle for the starting point guard spot. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams 16. The Family (Detroit, Mich.) Coach: Durand "Speedy" Walker
Starters: WG Joe Crawford (6-4, 205, SR); WG-WF Malik Hairston (6-6, 185, SR); PG Chris Douglass-Roberts (6-5, JR); C Jamal Locke (6-7, SR) Others: PG Marcus Crenshaw (5-10, SR); PG Jarrett Smith (6-2, JR); C Anthony Sparks (6-10, JR); F Lionel Sullivan (6-6, JR); PG Brandon Bradford (5-10, SR); G Eric Devendorf (6-2, JR); F Jairocey Simpson (6-7, JR) Strength: Athleticism
Notes: Coleman, a prolific scorer, and the ultra-athletic Crawford have both already committed to Michigan while Hairston is another wing who can flat-out play. Crenshaw and Douglass-Roberts will see the majority of the time at the point while Sparks will give the team a big body in the middle. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams 17. NC Gaters (Greensboro, N.C.) Coach: Steve Shelton
Starters: WF James Mays (6-8, 195, SR); G JamesOn Curry (6-2, 175, SR); PG Kenny Hunt (5-11, 185, SR); WF/WG Jason Thompson (6-5, 190, SR) Others: BF-C Sam Faulk (6-8, 230, SR); F Travoris Watts (6-7, 200, SR); WF Larry Smith (6-6, 180, SR); WG Simon Harris (6-4, 210, SR); G Mack Montgomery (6-3, 190, SR); G Takayo Siddle (5-10, 170, SR); PG Marcus Hairston (5-10, 180, SR); PG JaRon Goodson (5-8, 160, SR) Strength: Athleticism
Notes: Simmons has already committed to N.C. State while Curry is slated to attend North Carolina. Mays is a highly-touted wing from Garner High, but the strength of this club is its depth and athleticism. 18. Ft. Sooy No Limit (Urbana-Champaign, Ill.) Coach: Verdell Jones
Starters: G Justin Cerasoli (6-4, 165, SR); C Nick Yelovich (6-9, SR); WF Rodney Edgerson (6-6, SR); G Brandon Lee (6-1, SR) Others: BF DeAndre Miranda (6-7, SR); WG-WF Ollie Harrison (6-5, SR); WG Cameron Jones (6-6, SR); Lestan Hoskins (6-3, SR); WG-WF Sean Raboin (6-7, SR); BF DeMar McKnight (6-7, SR); PG T.J. Gray (5-8, SR) Strength: Athleticism
Notes: Livingston, who appears to be favoring in-state Illinois out of his six finalists, and Cerasoli, who likes Ohio State and N.C. State, are arguably the two top floor leaders in the state of Illinois, and they should have no problem sharing the ball this summer. Edgerson is a senior who will prep next year at Winchendon, but the question will be whether they have enough horses down low. Opening Tourney: Kingwood Classic (Houston) 19. Albany City Rocks (Albany, N.Y.) Coach: Jim Hart/Anthony Marino
Starters: PG Tiki Mayben (6-3, 155, JR); PG Greg Paulus (6-2, 175, JR); WF Will Daniels (6-6, SR); BF Sam Dolan (6-8, SR) Others: PG Taquan Evans (6-3, SR); WF Josh Pelletier (6-5, SR); BF Brian Monahan (6-6, SR); WG Artavius Fisher (6-1, SR); WG Antwon White (6-3, SR); WF Jason James (6-4, SR); WG Steve Dagostino (6-1, SR) Strength: Guards
Notes: The Rocks feature two of the elite young floor leaders in America in Paulus and Mayben, so they’ll be tough to pressure. Wright is a force on the inside who likes Syracuse and he’ll get help from Daniels and Dolan, who played at St. Thomas More this past season. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams 20. Georgia Elite (Atlanta, Ga.) Coach: Linzy Davis
Starters: PG Tramell Wooten (6-3, SR); BF Richard Dorsey (6-9, 245, SR); WF Robert Dozier (6-9, 180, SR); WG Archie Miaway (6-4, SR) Others: F Daniel Northern (6-9, 185, SR); WG Jay Anderson (6-4, SR); F Durand Murray (6-8, SR); G Elliott McCray (6-4, SR); PG Antwane Coates (5-8, SR); WG Yasin Id-Deen (6-2, SR) Strength: Inside
Notes: You’ll be hard-pressed to find a harder-working big man than Tangara, who is a defensive force and has really stepped up his offensive play as well. Dorsey is a teammate at Mt. Zion and also provides plenty of toughness and rebounding. Wooten, who loves Kentucky, is a well-rounded point guard unknown nationally, but that could change by July. Don’t be surprised if this group gets even better with foreigners Tahi Sani and Sekou Drame for selected tournaments. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams 21. Pump ‘N Run (Northridge, Calif.) Coach: Dana/David Pump
Starters: WG Bryce Taylor (6-4, 180, SR); WG Justin Armstrong (6-4, SR); WF Bryan Harvey (6-5, JR); C/BF Lorenzo Mata (6-10, SR) Others: Kashif Watson (6-0, JR); WF Nick Young (6-6, SR); C Craig Austin (6-9, SR) Strength: Guard play
Notes: The Pumps will have two teams this summer, but this one should be the premier group. Farmar has gotten attention from some of the top teams in the country, including Arizona, while Taylor is one of the top wings on the west coast. Watson is a big-time guard out of Bishop Gorman (Nev.) and the younger brother of C.J. Watson. Opening Tourney: Texas Classic (Houston) 22. South Carolina Ravens (Columbia, S.C.) Coach: Deion Bethea
Starters: WG Zam Frederick (6-1, 190, SR); G Ronald White (6-3, 180, SR); BF Philip Merling (6-6, SR); WF Josh Dollard (6-7, JR) Others: WF Cassan Breeden (6-8, JR); C Allen Taylor (6-8, JR); C Demetrius Nelson (6-7, SR); WF Randle Magwood (6-6, SR); PG Darius Lane (6-0, SR); PG Mike Irby (5-11, SR); PG Devin Downey (5-9, JR) Strength: Athleticism
Notes: Dickey gives the team a legitimate low-post presence while Frederick and White can both play either backcourt spot. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams 23. Illinois Wolves (Chicago, Ill.) Coach: Troy Johnson
Starters: BF Ollie Bailey (6-7, 225, SR); G Jaeh Thomas (6-2, 185, SR); WG-WF Frank Claire (6-6, SR); F Gordon Watt (6-6, SR) Others: WF Kyle Carrabine (6-7, SR); WG Steve Holdren (6-4, SR); PG Jaryd Lloyd (5-10, SR); WG-WF Vince Humphrey (6-6, SR); WF Chris Cornelius (6-7, SR); F Sean Kirkendoll (6-6, SR); PG Aaron Anderson (6-0, SR); PG Robin Bester (5-11, PG); PG Matt Cunningham (6-0, SR) Strength: Frontline; Depth
Notes: Pruitt and Bailey may up one of the top forward duos in the nation and will complement one another especially well. Bailey is all power, while Pruitt, who has had a pair of injuries that have limited his play in the last two years, brings plenty of finesse to the table. Thomas is an ABCD veteran who can play either backcourt spot while Claire and Watt give the team scoring punch from the wings. Opening Tourney: Kingwood Classic (Houston) 24. New Jersey All-Stars (Burlington, N.J.) Coach: Frank Berg
Starters: C DeSean White (6-7, 215, SR); PG Cedric Jackson (6-1, 185, SR); WG Paul Gouse (5-11, 185, JR); WF Chris Burns (6-6, SR) Others: BF Greg Lewis (6-7, 235, SR); BF Kenny Sims (6-6, 240, SR); WF Brian Grimes (6-7, JR); G Terence Grier (6-0, 185, JR); G Joe McLean (6-2, SR) Strength: Perimeter Play
Notes: Kurz is one of the top shooters in the nation and at 6-8, he’s a matchup nightmare for opposing teams. White is undersized, but if he comes to play, he can hold his own against almost anyone. Jackson comes over from Tim Thomas and will give the team a scoring point guard. Burns was a senior this past year who is qualified and is still looking. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams 25. Athletes First (Oklahoma City, Okl.) Coach: Gary Vick, Kermit Holmes Starters: PG Clent Stewart (6-3, 170, SR); WF Quentin Chaney (6-6, 180, SR); G A.J. Hawkins (6-4, SR); F David Godbold (6-5, SR) Others: F Matt Cannady (6-8, 225, SR); WF Taylor Griffin (6-5, JR); BF Drew Haymaker (6-8, 235, SOPH); F Shantell Norman (6-10, SOPH); F Keith Clark (SOPH) Strength: Perimeter threats
Notes: Jackson is a monster inside and has drawn the attention of numerous high-major schools, including Kansas and Oklahoma. Stewart is a consummate point guard, but is coming back from a broken foot and may not be at 100 percent for the early part of the summer. Chaney barely played last year because of a shoulder injury he’s a good athlete who has also been pursued by the locals (OU and OSU) for football. Haymaker is one of the top rising sophomores in the nation and should see some time on the under-17 squad. Opening Tourney: Nike Memorial Day Classic (the state won’t allow its teams to compete until May 18) ON THE CUSPJuice All-Stars (Brooklyn, N.Y.) Coach: Dwayne Morton
Starters: G Ramel Bradley (6-2, 175, SR); G Kojo Mensah (6-1, 175, SR); F James Barrett (6-5, SR); BF Sean James (6-8, SR) Others: WG Nyan Boateng (6-3, JR); WG Taj Gibson (6-7, JR); G Eugene Lawrence (6-0, SR); G-WF Saquaine Stone (6-4, JR) Strength: Quickness
Notes: Obviously, this backcourt can hang with anyone. Telfair is still among the best if not the top point guard in the class while Bradley is underrated and has flourished since attending IMG in Florida. The key is whether Morton can get enough from his guys up front. Opening Tourney: Texas Classic (Houston) Cleveland Basketball Club (Cleveland, Ohio) Coach: Mike Duncan/Tony Brown
Starters: F Matt Terwilliger (6-9, 220, SR); F Inbram Konte (6-10, SR); WG Justin Orr (6-4, 190, SR); WF Brandon Ivery (6-7, SR) Others: WG Danny Morrissey (6-2, 175, SR); G Robert Nelson (6-5, SR); WG Raynard Sawyer (6-5, SR); BF-C Chris Moore (6-10, SR); G Tony Sykes (6-3, SR); C Ben Miller (6-10, SR); WG Steve Gansey (6-3, SR); BF Ryan Weirsma (6-7, SR) Strength: Inside play, depth
Notes: Butler is a scoring point guard who already has committed to Bob Huggins and Cincinnati while Terwillinger is being chased by many of the big-time programs in the Midwest. Konte is a name people will know by the end of the summer while Morrissey will return from IMG in Florida and show people how his game has improved. Opening Tourney: Texas Classic (Houston) Houston Select (Houston, Texas) Coach: David Salinas
Starters: C Joseph Jones (6-8, SR); BF Larry Posey (6-5, SR); WG Derrick Roberts (6-3, SR) or WG Chamberlain Oguchi (6-4, SR); PG/WG Marlon Davis (5-11, SR) Others: PG Justin Wilson (5-7, SR); BF Terrence Townsell (6-8, SR); WG/PG Aldrich Reynolds (6-2, JR); BF Chris Roquemore (6-8, SO) Strength: Wings
Notes: McClellan, headed to Arizona, is a sharpshooter par excellence, and Roberts is an elite athlete who played behind Blake Adams and Cartier Martin last year at Houston (TX) Nimitz. Jones gives Select a strong low post presence. Depth is a concern behind him, though, so Townsell and Roquemore, a promising youngster, will have to provide good minutes up front. Also look for some players from the Select 16-U squad, which will be playing in the 17-U division this summer, to occasionally join the older team, including BF Obi Ikeakor, WF Sean Coleman , WG Chris Pinkalla, and PG Travis Turner. Opening Tourney: Texas Classic (Houston) Richmond Squires (Richmond, Va.) Coach: Tony Squires
Starters: WG Joe Posey (6-5, 190, SR); WG-WF Glen Dandridge (6-6, 195, SR); Cameron Stanley (6-6, 200, SR); BF Bombale Osby (6-7, 235, SR) Others: PG Brandon Freeman (6-4, 190, SR); F Boubacar Thiam (6-7, 190, Post-Grad); WG-WF Laimis Kisielius (6-6, SR); F Jaron Giddens (6-9, 230, SR); PG Brandon Clayton (6-3, SR); C Ben Brown (6-10, SR) Strength: Outside shooting
Notes: Shooters, shooters and more outside shooters. Weber, Posey and Dandridge are three of the top perimeter scorers in the entire country and now they’ll all be on the same team. Thiam will head to prep school next season and he’s active, but he’ll need to rebound because of the team’s lack of size. Freeman will run the show and should show coaches what he’s capable of. Look for Kisielius, who attend the Miller School, to emerge as a quality player. Opening Tourney: Texas Classic (Houston) BABC (Boston, Mass.) Coach: Leo Papile
Starters: BF-C Jeff Adrien (6-6, SR); PG Justin Dick (5-9, 170, SR); WG Gerry Corcoran (6-4, SR); WF Colby Santos (6-5, JR) Others: C Colin McIntosh (6-7, SR); PG Chris Vetrano (5-9, SR); WG Jerome Kirkland (5-10, SR); WG Nick Mattone (6-2, SR); WF Matt Wolfe (6-4, SR); WG Antoine Coleman (6-1, SR) Strength: Experience
Notes: This year’s BABC squad may not have a Torin Francis or Courtney Sims, but don’t let the lack of big names fool you. Burch is a tough tweener forward who just plain gets it done while Corcoran and Santos can shoot it from the perimeter. McIntosh and Adrien don’t have national profiles, but they may before the summer is over. Dick and Vetrano are more than capable floor leaders who get their teammates involved. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams Oakland Slam ‘N Jam Soldiers I (El Sobrante, CA) Coach: Mark Olivier
Starters: PG Ramone Wellington (6-2, 170, SR); BF/C DeVon Hardin (6-10, 240, SR); BF Joe Gates (6-9, 230, SR); WF/WG Dior Lowhorn (6-5, 190, JR) Others: C Zach Johnson (6-9, 240, SR); PG Trae Clark (5-9, 160, JR); WG-WF Larry Gurganious (6-5, 185, JR); WG/WF Kyle Spain (6-5, 185, JR); WF Andray Glenn (6-6, 190, SR) Strengths: Athleticism
Notes: As usual, Slam ‘N Jam will be one of the most athletic teams on the circuit and Hardin is potentially a top-50 talent. Pierce is a scorer deluxe and a top-50 kid who should have some nice showings. Look for Olivier to rotate a lot of guys through the lineup and play a helter-skelter type of tempo. Opening Tourney: Texas Classic (Houston) Boo Williams (Hampton, Va.) Coach: Boo Williams
Starters: G Brandon Smith (6-2, SR); F Donnie Stith (6-8, 195, SR); F Brian Gilmore (6-7, SR); C Qauotstaraj Waddell (6-10, 220, SR) Others: PG Eric Smith (5-10, SR); WG Daniel Fountain (6-4, 175, SR); F Darryl Monroe (6-6, SR); F Michael Anderson (6-5, SR); WG-WF Fred Stanbeck (6-5, 215, SR) Strength: Point guards
Notes: Boo has won a pair of under-17 national crowns in the last three seasons and he thinks this might be the best shooting team he’s ever had. Four players return from last year, including floor leader Marquie Cooke, whose being recruited by several ACC schools. Opening Tourney: Hosting Boo Williams Team Canada (Toronto, Canada) Coach: Ro Russell
Starters: G Shane Morrison (6-1, SR); BF/C Vlad Kaljunin (6-10, SR); F Kevin Francis (6-7, SR); PG Paulo Santano (6-1, SR) Others: PG Kerchel Carter (6-1, JR); PG Ryan Roper (6-5, SOPH); WG-WF Phil Nkrumah (6-4, 225, SR); F Russell Hicks (6-11, SR) Strength: Size
Notes: Davis could be the top player to ever come out of Canada while Morrison and Kaljunin are both in-demand by several high and mid-major schools. Opening Tournament: Charlie Weber Invitational (Washington D.C.) Inland (San Bernadino, Calif.) Coach: Elvert Perry
Starters: WG Richard Roby (6-5, 180, SR); C Sylvester Seay (6-9, 200, SR); BF Jermaine Johnson (6-8, 245, SR); C Jeffrey Pennegrath (6-9, SR) Others: WF Jason Williams (6-6, 185, SR); G Ryan Burnett (6-2, 195, JR); G Justin Sapp (6-1, SR) Strength: Backcourt
Notes: McGee could be the top point guard in the Class of 2005 and Roby has dramatically improved his outside shot, but Inland isn’t overly deep. They’ll need Seay and Johnson to hold their own inside. Opening Tourney: Texas Classic (Houston) Tennessee Travelers (Newport, Tenn.) Coach: Charlie Benson
Starters: PG Henry Harris (6-1, SR); WF Shane Dansby (6-4, SR); G Justin Hare (6-2, SR); F Barry Gardner (6-8, SR) Others: C David Palmer (6-8, JR); G Andy Wicks (6-2, SR); WG-WF John Adams (6-5, JR); C Chris Arnett (6-8, SR); PG Brian Bogus (5-10, SR); F Derrick Norris (6-7, SR); G Daniel Singleton (6-2, SR); WG-WF John Cook (6-5, SR) Strength: Perimeter Shooting
Notes: Brewer can light it up and has attracted the attention of Florida, Tennessee and Mississippi State. The rest of the team may not have high profiles, but Benson always does a good job of finding diamonds in the rough. In fact, he averages sending 10 kids to college each year. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams Georgia Stars (Adairsville, Ga.) Coach: Norman Parker
Starters: G Paul Delaney (6-2, SR); PG Ryan Lamb (5-10, SR); BF Ralph Jennings (6-8, SR); C Justin Billings (6-9, SR) Others: BF Rashad Chase (6-8, 225, JR); BF Wynton Witherspoon (6-6, SR); PG Darian Williams (6-0, SR); WG/WF Isley Malone (6-3, SR); BF Mike Wisdom (6-6, SR) Strength: Scoring
Notes: Unlike previous years, when big names like Kwame Brown suited up for the Stars, this year's version doesn't boast any marquee names. However, Parker does have a wide range of scoring weapons a few guys who could blow up this spring and summer. Bigger teams might cause some problems, but to date the Stars have compensated fine on their way to an 11-0 record. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams KC Pump 'N Run (Olathe, Kan.) Coach: L.J. Goolsby
Starters: BF Jordan Fithian (6-6, 235, SR); WF Caleb Holmes (6-6, 180, SR); WG Joe Mundweiler (6-2, 160, SR); PG Joey Deas (5-9, 150, SR) Others: WF Nick Holmes (6-6, 180, SR); PG/WG Andrew Meile (6-2, 170, SR); BF/WF Darius Hill (6-7, 205, SR); BF Chris Rainbolt (6-7, 195, SR); WG Dain Dillingham (6-2, 180, SR) Strength: Size and inside strength
Notes: Formerly the KC Nets, Goolsby has partnered up with the Pump Brothers and will spend their first summer on the Adidas circuit. They'll be led by the big, strong, and skilled Bangle - who has already given a commitment to Wichita State - and Fithian on the blocks. The Holmes twins are emerging wing prospects and Hill could emerge as one of the premier defenders in the Midwest by summer's end. The key will be the growth of a talented yet small backcourt. Opening Tourney: Las Vegas Easter Classic DTA (Wis.) Coach: Duane Wilson
Starters: G Michael Flowers (6-2, 170, SR); Allan Hanson (5-11, 160, SR); F Mike Bendell (6-7, 210, SR); F Jermyl Jackson-Wilson (6-7, 210, SR) Others: F Jim Keller (6-7, SR); F Kyle Jefferies (6-7, 215, SR); F Dan Beyer (6-6, SR); G Robert Dixon (6-1, SR); PG Rob Handley (6-2, SR); PG Khalif El-Amin (5-2, SR); PG Justin Brown (5-8, SR) Strength: Backcourt
Notes: There is no legitimate post player, so Wilson will employ a three-guard lineup which includes the Wisconsin-bound Flowers. Fletcher is a defensive-minded player who gets to the hoop and is being looked at by high-majors in the Midwest while Jackson-Wilson will likely head to prep next year and is ultra-athletic. Opening Tourney: Kingwood Classic (Houston) Houston Hoops (Houston, Texas) Coach: Hal Pastner/Byron Gibson
Starters: WG/WF Matt Wheaton (6-6, SR); G Rodney Foster (6-0, SR); F Mike Nichols (6-6, SR); C Kellen Hurd (6-7, SR) Others: WG-WF Tyrone Jackson (6-4, SR); G Marrio Kersee (6-0, SR); F Jarrel Franklin (6-5, SR); F Alex Anderson (6-6, SR); G David Devezin (6-2, JR); F Fendi Onobun (6-7, JR) Strength: Backcourt
Notes: Gibson broke his hand and will be out for the first couple of big tournament this summer, but his return should be enough to keep the Hoops in most games. Foster is a shooter while Heard is a football guy who adds toughness inside. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams World Wide Renegades (Ga.) Coach: Chris Johnson
Starters: F Davario Hudson (6-7, SR); BF Kudus Ogbara (6-7, SR); PG Tony Green (6-0, SR); F Vernon Goodrich (6-9, SR) Others: WG Albert Weber (6-4, 195, SR); G Tasheed Carr (6-4, SR); F Gary Springer (6-9, SR); WF Amadi McKenzie (6-5, SR); Strength: Athleticism
Notes: Weber and Carr will split their time between a pair of teams this summer. Spann is a future star who plays his high school ball at Banneker while Ogbara played alongside Vincent Banks this past season at South Atlanta. The Renegades may not have the big names of a year ago when it boasted Corey Gibbs and Jemareo Davidson, but this year’s group should be more than competitive. Opening Tourney: Texas Classic (Houston) Houston Westside All-Stars (Houston, Texas) Coach: Charlie Jones
Starters: PG Charlie Jones III (6-0, SR); G Sean Morris (5-10, SR); WF Miles Guidry (6-3, SR); BF-C Chris Mitchell (6-8, SR) Others: WG Dexter Shankle (5-10, SR); WG-WF Jimmy Sanders (6-3, SR); WF Cole Kouba (6-4, SR); WG Desmond Franklin (6-4, SR) Strength: Experience
Notes: Dowell is headed to Texas once he’s done with high school and Jones has already committed to Colorado State. Morris is an undersized two-guard and the son of former NBA player Chris Morris. These guys may not have a ton of size, but they are super-quick. Opening Tourney: Kingwood Classic (Houston) Raleigh's Finest (Raleigh, N.C.) Coach: Wallace Shuler III Starters: BF Kareem Cooper (7-0, 310, SR); C Hatila De Souza (6-8, 235, SR); F Bass Dieng (6-10, 205, SR); G Antoine Watson (6-3, 185, SOPH) Others: C Damiao Rodriguez (7-3, 325, SR); C C.J. Walker (7-0, 210, SR); WF Rodrigues DaSilva (6-6, SR) Strength: Size
Notes: There may not be a team on the circuit with more skyscrapers. Those heights speak for themselves and should enable Finest to compete inside against any team in America. However, despite the presence of high-major guard Mathis, the backcourt remains a work in progress. There's a significant international influence on the team, which helps explain why some of these big guys aren't well-known in recruiting circles. Connecticut Select (Conn.) Coach: Wayne Simone
Starters: WF Gary Claxton (6-6, SR); WGG Davon Yarborough (6-2, SR); WG Brian Glowiak (6-3, SR); BF Cecil Gresham (6-6, JR) Others: WF Andrew Patterson (6-4, JR); WG Gerald Carter (6-5, SR) Strength: Point guard
Notes: Simone’s squad knocked off BABC to win its own tournament last weekend and this group will go as far as Luckey takes them. He’s a big floor leader who can get to the basket and distribute. Nike Team Oregon (Portland, Ore.) Coach: Troy Berry Starters: C Sam Rayburn (6-10, SR); WF Ryan Keeling (6-5, SR); PG Jeremiah Dominguez (5-7, SR); WG-WF Erik Ainge (6-5, SR) Others: PG James Loe (5-11, SR); BF Ryan Coldren (6-7, SR); G Riley Luttgerodt (6-4, SR); G Pat Levine (6-2, SR); G Nik Ravio (6-0, SR) Strength: Size Notes: Rayburn gives the team an inside presence and has already committed to Cal while Leunen, a thin forward, is getting looked at closely by nearly the entire Pac-10. Loe is a heady floor leader who likes Texas Tech and UNLV while Ainge and Keeling, both football players also, give the group added toughness. Opening Tourney: Boo Williams Belmont Shore/H Squad (Long Beach, Calif.) Coach: Dinos Trigonis, Rick Isaacs Starters: C Devon Hardin (6-9, 230, SR); WG Gabriel Pruitt (6-4, 170, SR); F Jamal Boykin (6-7, 220, JR); WG Curtis Allen (6-4, 180, SR) Others: C Jordan Wilkes (6-10, 200, JR); C Brett Hoerner (6-10, 200, JR); G/F Ed White (6-4, 175, JR); G Davon Lloyd (6-3, 175, JR); G Ralph Miley (6-2, 170, SR) Strength: Size, athleticism Notes: You'll notice that several players are listed for more than one team. That's especially the case in California, where the top prospects frequently switch teams from one event to another. In the case of Belmont Shore, Trigonis' bunch should be very good if they can hold onto the roster listed above. Nelson became the youngest player ever to commit to Duke last year and is a terrific shooter and surprisingly strong inside. Wilkes is the youngest son of former UCLA great Jamaal Wilkes. Opening Tourney: Las Vegas Easter Classic OTHERS TO WATCHChallenge Group (Ala.); Alabama Ice (Ala.); Arkansas Hawks (Ark.); Arkansas Wings (Ark.); Arizona Stars (Ariz.); Arkansas Wings (Ark.); Cal Team Select (Calif.); EBO (Calif.); IEBP (Calif.); Coast to Coast (Fla.); Florida Hoopsters (Fla.); Georgia Warriors (Ga.); Youth Prep Stars (Ga.); Illinois Warriors (Ill.); Illinois Fire (Ill.); Bloomington Red (Ind.); Spiece (Ind.); Maximum (Ind.); Martin Brothers (Iowa); Derek Smith All-Stars (Ky.); Kentucky Hoopsters (Ky.); New Orleans Jazz (La.); Louisiana Select (La.); DC Assault (D.C.); Baltimore Select (Md.); Cecil Kirk (Md.); Middlesex Magic (Mass.); Michigan Mustangs (Mich.); Howard Pulley Panthers (Minn.); Team Minnesota (Minn.); Minnesota Magic (Minn.); Jackson Panthers (Miss.); KC Rocktown (Mo.); Jersey Cyclones (N.J.); New York Ravens (N.Y.); New York Gauchos (N.Y.); Long Island Panthers (N.Y.); Charlotte Royals (N.C.); Charlotte Aces (N.C.); All-Ohio (Ohio); Portland Legends (Ore.); Hunting Park (Pa.); Ft. Worth Lions (Texas); Houston Superstars (Texas); Texas Blue Chips (Texas); Champions (Utah); Emerald City (Wash.); Randolph Boys Club (Wis.); Wisconsin Playground Warriors (Wis.); Fox Valley Skillz (Wis.)
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