AAU Roster Spotlight: NJ Beasts HGSL

Returning for another year to Hoop Group's Showcase League circuit, the [program_tooltip program_id='2078573' first='NJ' last='Beasts'] year in and year out are at the top of the HGSL and after a few tournaments this spring, look primed to do so the rest of this spring and summer. Now about a month into the AAU season, let's dive into some prospects that everyone should have their eye on heading into May, that have been starring for this year's [program_tooltip program_id='2078573' first='NJ' last='Beasts'] program.    A smooth and efficient two guard, [player_tooltip player_id='1943569' first='Donnie' last='Gregory'] has showcased his ability to score the basketball from all over the court thus far this spring for the [program_tooltip program_id='2078573' first='NJ' last='Beasts']. Scoring it from multiple levels, Gregory can attack on dribble drives and get to the basket, find his in between game when he gets cut off and hit mid range pull ups, and knock down open threes from the perimeter. Behind strong scoring performances over the course of this first month of AAU, Gregory has been ultra efficient and looks to continue to showcase his legit ball skills and ability to create offense going into the month of May.     [player_tooltip player_id='1595685' first='Jekhi' last='Burnam'] is a versatile wing that has continue to expand upon his 3 and D skillset over the last year or so. This spring so far, Burnam has been doing more than just knocking down open perimeter shots and guarding multiple positions— showcasing his ability to attack closeouts and finish at the rim and show flashes of scoring out the mid post as well. Defensively, Burnam has displayed his ability to effectively alter and block shot attempts at the rim and use his length to be a disruptive defender at the POA.     A new addition to the [program_tooltip program_id='2078573' first='NJ' last='Beasts'] program, [player_tooltip player_id='2504912' first='Chace' last='Redler'] has brought high level perimeter shooting, particularly off the catch to this 16U group. Behind multiple 20+ point performances this spring thus far, Redler has showcased his ability to be a lethal shot maker from three point range. Redler possesses a strong feel for the game as well, not only hunting his shot on offense but knowing when to attack off the dribble and get to his mid range or get to the basket. As we move into May, look for Redler to build upon his strong scoring performances and see his stock continue to rise.     Shouldering most of the offensive production for this year's 17U group, [player_tooltip player_id='1919208' first='Gerald' last='Edwell'] is strong and physical big bodied forward that has shown his ability to score it at multiple levels this spring. Edwell has shown to be a mismatch against opposing defenders— using his strong and powerful frame to bully smaller defenders and finish around the basket or take slower footed, bigger defenders off the dribble and finish through contact at the basket. Edwell has also shown his ability to knock down open threes. As we get deeper into AAU season, look for Edwell to continue to showcase more of his unique offensive skillset.     Shouldering most of the ball handling responsibilities for this [program_tooltip program_id='2078573' first='NJ' last='Beasts'] 17U group, [player_tooltip player_id='1595681' first='Jaren' last='Barnett'] has done a good job of operating as a floor general and setting the table for the Beasts' offense. Often times dissecting the defense, Barnett has shown an ability to put pressure on the defense and get his teammates involved as well as knock down open shots. Quick with the ball in his hands, Barnett consistently gets in the paint to make plays and display his good feel for the game. As we head into the month of May, look for Barnett to continue to effectively run the show for this 17U group.     Starring for the [program_tooltip program_id='2078573' first='NJ' last='Beasts']' HGAL squad, [player_tooltip player_id='2628194' first='Robert' last='Lopez'] has been seen showcasing his lethal perimeter shooting ability from deep. Lopez has also shown ability to finish plays in transition— ultimately turning defense into offense. Despite being undersized, Lopez is scrappy and plays with an extremely motor. Heading into the month of May, look for Lopez to continue to provide perimeter shooting and floor spacing ability to the [program_tooltip program_id='2078573' first='NJ' last='Beasts']' offense.

Returning for another year to Hoop Group's Showcase League circuit, the NJ Beasts year in and year out are at the top of the HGSL and after a few tournaments this spring, look primed to do so the rest of this spring and summer. Now about a month into the AAU season, let's dive into some prospects that everyone should have their eye on heading into May, that have been starring for this year's NJ Beasts program.