Minor High School Tip-off Classic: Standout Players

<p>With the start of the basketball season kicking off, Minor High School hosted a tournament in Birmingham, Alabama featuring their neighbors from McAdory HS(McCalla, AL) and a very talented team in Sipsey Valley HS from the backwoods of West Alabama(Buhl). A lot of talent was on display and here are some players to keep your eye this season.</p> <p><strong>Martavious Russell, SG (Sipsey Valley)</strong></p> <p>Averaging 17ppg during the two-day tournament, he wowed the crowd with his athletic ability. Standing at 6'3" with wide shoulders and long arms he put on a show with a wide variety of dunks. Has a great motor and excels at playing defense in the open court. Though his natural position may be shooting guard, he played significant minutes at the point guard spot. Has a solid handle and his strong point is attacking the rim. Needs to work on his shooting, which could definitely take his game to the next level. He's only a sophomore so he has plenty of time to grow in that area. Has the potential to go low mid-major to high division 1.</p> <p><strong> Jamyas Davis, PF (Sipsey Valley)</strong></p> <p>This sophomore forward stands at 6'5" with nice size and is also a lefty which sometimes gives him a slight advantage. An elite rebounder in traffic. Works well with contact in the post. Has the ability to bring the ball up the court with no problem. Ball-handling seems to be one of his strong points but needs to work on his right hand. Surprisingly at his size, he's very comfortable in ISO situations from the wing. Needs to develop a mid-range shot if he wants to raise his stock. Comes from a family of towering basketball players so very possible that he may hit another growth spurt. If he grows 3-4 more inches and retains his skill set, the sky is the limit for this youngster. Keep a close eye on him.</p> <p><strong>Drew Long, SG/SF (Sipsey Valley)</strong></p> <p>6'3" senior has a silky smooth jumper. Shoots the 3 with ease and also showed the ability to consistently shoot off the dribble. Very long and lanky and has the ability to get in the passing lanes on defense. Great attitude on the court and plays for the team.</p> <p><strong>Hunter Gregory, SG (Sipsey Valley)</strong></p> <p>This young guard came off the bench and provided a spark on both ends of the floor during the tournament while leading his team in scoring on Day 2. High energy guy. Very good 3pt shooter. Has no problems mixing it up in the paint for rebounds. Very confident and plays with swagger. Has a solid enough handle to play the PG spot at times. Look for him to get better as the season progresses.</p> <p><strong>Sam Youngblood, PG (McAdory)</strong></p> <p>6'3" senior PG with great leadership skills. Amazing basketball IQ. Has a very good handle and is very strong. An elite passer but also has the ability to get his own shot. Needs work on his 3pt shooting but his pull up jumper is very consistent.  Has the frame and ability to play significant minutes as a freshman at the college level. Definitely a guy to keep your eye on throughout the season.</p>