Bruce’s Notebook: April Bash Friday Night Standouts
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The second annual April Bash kicks off this weekend. Presented by Chosen Few, the event features teams from around the Southwest and the West Coast. The event is the unofficial kick-off to the Spring Live period, as it takes place…
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Continue ReadingThe second annual April Bash kicks off this weekend. Presented by Chosen Few, the event features teams from around the Southwest and the West Coast. The event is the unofficial kick-off to the Spring Live period, as it takes place the week before college coaches are eligible to come out and lay eyes on players. The tournament-style event features both boys’ and girls’ teams ranging from 8U – 17U. This exposure event will feature heavy media coverage, including Prep Hoops and highlight company Balldawgs. The event was the perfect platform for players to showcase their talents right before the live period. Here’s a look at my standouts from opening night.
Moses had a strong performance for the Program. The sharpshooter proved that he’s one of the best pure shooters in the state, spraying threes from all over the court. He was more than a floor spacer, scoring off a few transition buckets as well. His overal offensive skill set made him one of the standouts on the day.
Look for Jones to be a stockriser this season. He’s improved his body, and has the look of a potential prospect. Jones shot the ball well, and did a terrific job of getting to the lane and finishing through contact. If he keeps stacking together strong performances like I’ve seen the last two weeks, look for him to be a potential stockriser.
Highlights
Knoll had been typcast as a role player so much, you forget the type of skill set he has. The lefty shot the ball well, knocking down a few threes, and he showed some playmaking driving and dishing to teammates. Perhaps his most impressive trait was his defense, as he guarded seemingly every postion on the floor, while sacraficing his body taking a couple charges for his team.
Ivery has always been a confident player and I see why. The PG was his usual pitbull self on the defensive end, and he impacted the game with his shooting. The lefty broke open a close game, stringing together three threes in a short span to extend the lead for his IBC club, his two way play allowed him to be one of the top players on the day.
Martina played his usual scrappy defense. He displayed quick hands forcing a couple tie ups as well as getting a few steals. Offensively he was solid as he was able to get paint touches and draw defenders before dishing to teammates for assist.
Highlights
Buchanan impresses every time I see him play. He has an advanced frame, and is an explosive athlete. He rebounded the ball at a high level, and was a monster finishing in transition. The sophomore two sport star was the high scorer in the game, getting many of his buckets off catch and finishes and putbacks.