Warriors Jam Fest: Saturday’s Top Performers
The Michigan Warriors’ Jam Fest took place May 5-7. While no major circuit teams made an appearance, there were plenty of talented teams present, such as REACH Legends, Michigan Playmakers, Michigan Warriors, and Moneyball East, among others. As with any AAU tournament, Saturday was the busiest day as the majority of pool games take place. Below are a few players who had big-time performances during pool play:
Quinn Blair (REACH Legends 17u) – Blair had a dominant performance in a blowout win over Triple Threat. Blair fills out his 6’6″ frame nicely and is a matchup problem due to his excellent shooting ability. He used this advantage to find success in just about every way against Triple Threat; he scored from all three levels, rebounded at a high rate, defended well, as well as created plays for his teammates.
Justin Rukat (T3 Select 16u) – The 6’6″ stretch-big made a huge impact in a variety of ways in a blowout win over the Motor City Grizzlies. In addition to dominating the paint on both ends, he hit multiple threes and midrange jumpers. He blocked around 5 or 6 shots in the first half alone. He even dribbled the ball up the floor and had a couple nice assists in transition. Rukat single-handedly controlled the game with dominant play on both end of the floor, and it showed on the scoreboard.
Martone Cole (Moneyball East 17u) – Cole played an extremely efficient and effective game in a win over the Michigan Goonies. He finished well around the rim, making 4 or 5 layups around the rim compared to only 1 or 2 misses. He also hit the pull-up midrange a couple times. In addition to efficient scoring, he created plays for his teammates, setting them up with easy, open looks. He was active on defense and the glass. Cole made winning plays throughout the entirety of the game.
Tyler Canfield (Moneyball East 17u) – Canfield provided his team with a ton of energy and toughness anytime he was on the floor. In a win over the Goonies, he played defense with a ton of heart, pestering the opposing team’s guards. He also provided his team with plenty of offense, knocking down multiple trey balls as well as creating offense for his teammates. It was his toughness and energy, however, that was most impressive.