EBA Summer League Power Rankings 6/24

Every Monday, I'll be releasing power rankings for the EBA Summer League that tipped off last Wednesday. It was a solid first week where I got my eyes on some talent that I don't normally see. Even though only one game has been played, certain teams had strong showings to separate themselves as indicated below: 1. MD Spartans (1-0) Last week's game: 53-39 win over Falcons The Spartans got off to a slow start as a team, but capitalized on a strong second half effort that helped separate them in this one. 2021 guard Marlon Lewis was key in the victory, recording 26 points and nine rebounds. 2021 guard Gary Gibson followed Lewis with 16 points, most of which came in the second half. The team displayed the most chemistry that I saw in week one. We'll see if they can avoid a slow start in their next game against the Cobras. 2. EBA (1-0) Last week's game: 53-41 win over Cobras EBA had its share of ups and downs during this one, but 2020 forward Jordan Strickland's 14-points, nine-rebound effort ensured the win. 2020 guard John Godinez was the play maker for EBA and got open looks for teammates routinely. EBA has the firepower to stick with anyone in this league, but it'll take contributions from role players to reach their full potential. 3. Bayhawks (1-0) Last week's game: 44-38 win over Pointers The Bayhawks earned a solid win over a Pointers team that plays with good chemistry. 2020 guard Emanuel Henriques was key with his 13 points and constant communication on the defensive end. 2021 guard Khalil Kosh helped open driving lanes for teammates after connecting on a couple of three's to open the game. The Bayhawks have the athleticism to be a tough team to deal with, but their decision-making will be key to their success the rest of the way. 4. Bluebirds (1-0) Last week's game: 50-32 win over Rams The Bluebirds opened their schedule with a lopsided victory over the Rams thanks to the performances of 2020 guard Deamony Alvez (13 points, five rebounds, two assists) and 2021 guard Jayier Anderson (11 points, 10 rebounds). The two were constantly involved on both sides of the ball and seem to be the key cogs for the Bluebirds. 5. Pointers (0-1) Last week's game: 44-38 loss vs Bayhawks Despite suffering a loss in week one, the Pointers will make the top five of this list because of their potential as a team. They play with good chemistry and move the ball well for the most part. 2020 guard Peyton Conn proved that he can be a three-point threat from three and 2020 forward Hassan Tucker took care of things on the inside. They were missing a few of their key players who can make a big impact on how they look overall. 6. Mavs (1-0) Last week's game: 37-34 win over Wolfpack The Mavs earned a win in week one over a young Wolfpack team. 2021 guard Noah Oliver was key with his 15 points and nine rebounds. 2020 forward Fola Salako brings size and athleticism to the table. His decision making can be questioned, but in a league where there isn't much size, he'll have plenty of chances to have an impact. Salako finished with 13 point and six rebounds in the win. 7. Falcons (0-1) Last week's game: 53-39 loss vs Spartans The Falcons dropped their first game, but there were positives in the loss. 2023 guard Taylor Hickey (14 points) quickly showed everyone that he can shoot from range as indicated by his four made three's. The rising freshman showcased a solid feel for the game and competed every second he was on the floor. 2021 guard Malik Scipio looks to be a do-it-all type of player for the Falcons. He finished with 12 points and three rebounds in the first game, but played with good energy and versatility on both ends. 8. Cobras (0-1) Last week's game: 53-41 loss to EBA The Cobras seem to play well as a team despite coming up short in week one. 2020 forward Bradley Hall is undersized for his position at 6-foot-2, but is a good system player that can knock down shots, make the right passes and act as a leader on both ends. Hall led the Cobras with 14 points and eight rebounds. 9. Rams (0-1) Last week's game: 50-32 loss vs Bluebirds The Rams struggled in their first game, but were missing four of their key players. Once those players showed up with about eight minutes to go, they showed a much higher ceiling as a team. 2021 guard James Elliot had to carry the offensive load and did so by scoring 17 points. The southpaw combo guard did a good job of getting into the paint and finishing through contact. We'll see if they can put on a better performance with their full team in week two. 10. Wolfpack (0-1) Last week's game: 37-34 loss vs Mavs The Wolfpack have a number of young players on their roster, so development will be key for the coaching staff. Still, they made for a competitive game in week one against the Mavs as 2023 guard Donovan Leak (nine points) and 2021 guard Walter Carr (eight points) helped spark a late push to give their team a chance.