August 10th, 2005

By Mike Melton at www.metrohoops.com

14U Nationals Update Tri-State Top Performers                  

St. Benedict's Freshman Tamir Jackson

Here’s a report on some of the top players from the tri-state area and how they performed on the national stage.

Greg Robbins 6’4 Guard (Filly Sol)- We must begin with Robbins because he was the most dominant player from the northeast. He did whatever he wanted on the floor and made it look easy. Once he gets the ball in the open floor you can mark down two points in the book. His smoothness and body control was unmatched by anyone else in the tournament.  

Dalton Pepper 6’5 Forward (Philly Patriots)- Pepper came in known by few (except us) and left being mentioned by every scouting service. His fluid jump shot and athleticism in the open floor made many observers jaws drop. When he realizes his potential many more competitors will fall victim.

Durant Scott 6’2 Guard (Gauchos)- If you are looking for a money player search no further than Scott. When the game is on the line he loves to have the rock in his hands. He can hit the step back trey or convert a difficult shot in traffic. He is truly a gamer.

Dexter Strickland 6’3 Guard (Team NJ Elite)- When people realized I was from Jersey that all commented on how they loved Strickland and rightfully so. He plays the game so graceful and has improved his jumper and handle. His leaping ability allows him to finish without much trouble from defenders.

Tamir Jackson 6’1 Guard (Slam ‘N’ Jam)- Jackson came back to his old squad and took over the scoring load. He penetrated deep into the lane and threw his shoulder into the chest of defenders before converting. He has a unique knack of putting the ball in the hole.

Chris Fouch 5’10 Guard (Gauchos)- Fouch had a quick trigger and pull from anywhere. I still can’t figure out how was able to score over the trees inside. He also doesn’t shy away from the ball in crunch time.

Tony Chenault 6’0 Guard (Reebok Raiders)- The rising 8^th grader doesn’t waste anytime getting to the hole finishing on the break. He has awkward form on his jumper but usually has successful results. He should have a big time future.

Anthony Baskerville 5’9 Guard (Team NJ Elite)- Baskerville was sizzles from the beginning of the tournament. He had the three ball dropping from everywhere and showed the ability to finish in the paint.

Omari Lawrence 6’2 Guard (Team Roc)- Lawrence gained some national attention with his play. His dominating play against Team Melo will always be remembered. The southpaw has a strong left hand finish and will rock you to sleep off the dribble.

Brian Jones 5’8 Guard (Team Roc)- Jones is a very solid point guard who should get more props once he reaches high school. He is very explosive going to the hole and has decent court vision. I was also surprised and impressed with his leaping ability.

Paris Bennett 6’5 Forward (Team NJ Elite)- Bennett didn’t participate in last year’s nationals but quickly made up for lost time. He showed the ability to finish with both hands and knock down the face up jumper. One scout rated him the third best big man at the tournament.

Kevin Parrom 6’4 Forward (Gauchos)- Parrom will be a good one in due time. He hasn’t come close to reaching his potential. Once his handle becomes share will be difficult to stop. He might have the most upside from this Choz bunch.

Raymond Graham 5’10 Guard (Team NJ Elite)- Graham court vision was on huge display. He hit teammates on the dime.

Lenny Hayes 6’2 Guard (Corey Irving Allstars)- Hayes confidence grew as the tournament progressed. He seemed to be more aggressive attacking the basket and not settling for jumpers. His size allows him to get a good look anytime he feels.

Tevin Baskin 6’5 Center (Gauchos)- Baskin has tremendous springs and has improved his game facing the basket. He has a decent turn around jumper and swats any shot in his circumference.

Ibn Moye 6’0 Guard (LD Rebels)- Moye led his squad to a 4-2 mark in competition. He has a solid game attacking the basket and is even more deadly when his jumper is falling. He is one of the best kept secrets in the state.

Jabari Joyner 5’9 Guard (LD Rebels)- Joyner has a quick handle and a burst of speed while driving to the cup. He runs the Rebels offense with good efficiency and makes few mistakes.