THE SCRIMMAGE: FIVE TAKEAWAYS
WEST BERLIN, NJ — “The Scrimmage” presented by Team Final returned for its sixth year, and showcased its 15U through 17U teams along with Team Takeover, Team Melo, Albany City Rocks, Boo Williams, Jersey Shore Warriors, and Philly Pride. A large number of players stood out, but below we run down five significant takeaways from a full day of action.
17U TEAM TAKEOVER EYBL MAKES STATEMENT
Team Takeover picked up two good wins over EYBL teams this weekend. “TTO” defeated Team Final 79-52, and also beat Albany City Rocks 69-49. To give up an average of just over 50 points while putting up over 70 speaks to how well this team plays together on both ends of the floor. Brandon Slater, Myles Dread, Anthony Harris (2019), Xavier Johnson, Jalen Smith, Tre Wood, Bryce Golden, and Wynston Tabbs each had their respective moments. 7-footer Aapeli Syrjamaki is coming along as well. We saw the big fella nail a corner 3, and he ran the floor and hit the boards with purpose. This group is off to a strong start this spring, and will be a tough matchup in Hampton this weekend.
16U TEAM MELO REMAIN UNBEATEN
Melo 16s won the championship at Capital Hoop Fest, and are rolling at the moment.16U Team Melo have amassed an 8-0 record so far this spring, and picked up two solid wins this weekend against Jersey Shore Warriors and Albany City Rocks. The depth of this group is one if it’s biggest assets. RJ Blakney and Will Thomas offer a ton of size and versatility on the wing. Both players work extremely hard, and display high basketball IQ’s. Jalen Willis and Jalen Rucker are very good paint getters who can finish in traffic. 6’9″ big man Jason Murphy was very good defensively, and stayed vocal as the anchor on the back line. Judah Jordan brings size, skill, and playmaking ability at the lead guard spot while being able to defend multiple positions.
JUSTIN LEWIS ASSERTING HIMSELF
The potential has always been evident with Justin Lewis, and now he’s turning that potential into tangible and consistent production. The sturdily built, long & lanky 6’7 forward is developing a more consistent motor. Lewis was a force on the boards this weekend, and attacked the rim with ferocity. He can break down defenders on the perimeter, and elevate over defenders where he can finish at the rim.
NEW LOOK 17U JERSEY SHORE WARRIORS MAKE NOISE
17U Jersey Shore Warriors picked up a gutty overtime win over Team Melo EYBL, and their well-balanced team features some familiar faces. Andrew Funk and Tyree Pickron of Archbishop Wood (PA) are two guards we liked at the Gonzaga DC Classic, and they each made their impact felt on both ends of the floor. IAC Champion guard Lincoln Yeutter of Bullis (MD) locked up defensively, and showcased a high basketball IQ along with a nice touch from the perimeter. 6’7″ State College (PA) forward Drew Friberg hit some shots from the perimeter, moved well off the ball, and made some nice passes.
NOTABLE RECRUITING NOTES
- Team Melo 2018 big man Koran Moore says he’s hearing from USC, and the new staff at Dayton. The 6’9 big man from St. Frances Academy holds offers from both, and should continue to see his recruitment expand on the EYBL.
- Team Takeover 2018 guard Wynston Tabbs visited Rutgers the day before the scrimmage, and received an offer from Scarlet Knights boss Steve Pikiell while on campus.
- Clemson and Notre dame were in to see Team Melo 2018 guard Noah Locke Clemson Notre Dame the day before the scrimmage.
- Stanford and VCU are in for Team Melo 2018 gaurd Brendan Adams. Miami Head Coach Jim Larranaga and three assistants are also expected in today.
- Team Takeover 2018 wing Brandon Slater is on an unofficial visit at Villanova today, and will visit Maryland Thursday. Miami will be in to see him Wednesday.