Ben Moore Fall League Standouts (10/3)
The newly named Ben Moore Fall League at Boo Williams Complex (named after the late, great Menchville coach, RIP) is in it’s third week and features a number of teams from all over the Hampton area. I made the hour and a half trip, and it was well worth it as I got to see new and old names from all over the 757 and more. Here’s a look at nine guys who stood out on Wednesday.
- Zhamare Slade | 6’5” WF | Surry County 2019
I was excited about finding Slade because I love finding guys at smaller schools like Surry that are under the radar. Slade is an impressive 6’5” athlete with a good frame that should fill out in college. He finished above and around the rim consistently, showed that he can rebound on both ends, handled the basketball in transition and showed that he can score from all three levels as well. He finished with 28 points in a close loss to Tallwood.
- Kendall Bynum | 6’0” PG | Western Branch 2019
One of the most under recruited guards in the state, Bynum led his team to a big victory in a chippy game with reigning Class 3 state champions John Marshall out of Richmond. His skill set as a dual threat point guard is impressive as he can make contested shots off the bounce and get in the lane to create for others, but what really stands out is his understanding of the game and his natural ability to be a leader and make others on his team better with both his play and the way he carries himself.
- DeMarr McRae | 6’1” WG | John Marshall 2019
A stockriser in VA right now, McRae showed why he’s starting to pick up more and more offers moving forward. Everyone knows he’s a very good athlete who plays above the rim and uses it defensively to be a lock down guy, but he’s embraced the alpha dog and lead role so far this fall. He showed improved ability to create his own shot off the bounce and showed more confidence in letting it fly from deep.
- Daleon Gibson | 6’2” G | Lake Taylor 2019
Gibson has somewhat of an awkward game, but he’s very effective in a number of different ways. He’s long and athletic as a guard, and defensively he can guard the 1-3, jumps passing lanes and he’s very good anticipating in the press. Offensively he thrives in transition where he can use his athleticism to get downhill and finish or make plays for others, and he’s shown the ability to make shots as well.
- Titus Lawrence | 5’8” PG | Peninsula Catholic 2019
The pint sized guard showed that he’s a big time impact guy and should put up big numbers this season. At 5’8”, he can score the basketball with ease with the ball in his hands. He’s shifty off the bounce, he can shoot it from deep and he knows how to finish high off the glass to avoid shot blockers. He’s also a tough kid that will lay it all on the line for you.
- Colin Glavas | 6’3” WG | Jamestown 2020
Jamestown didn’t have the best day, but every time I watch Glavas I’m impressed with his ability to play both wing positions and the all-out effort he gives on both ends. He has good length and knows how to use it, he has a great understanding and feel for the game and he’s a little tougher than most people will give him credit for.
- Calvin Thomas | 6’4” PF | Tallwood 2020
Thomas is a guy who is set to have a breakout season for Tallwood this year. He reminds me a little of former Lions’ star Adrian Beasely in that they’re both shorter but stocky post men with good skillsets. Thomas showed he can be a bruiser and finish under the basket but he’s also got a smooth midrange and he can play with his back to the basket.
- Kanye Clary | 5’7” PG | Princess Anne 2022
Clary should start for Princess Anne from day one, as he’s already able to get by pretty much anyone in isolation situations. He has a tight and flashy handle, a lightning quick first step and end-to-end he can beat anyone down the floor with the ball in his hands. He showed he can shoot it as well, and was one of the better players on the floor when I watched him.
- Elijah White | 5’8” PG | Kempsville 2022
Kempsville showed a talented but young core around senior Tyson Brown, but it looks like the youngest of them in White is going to be leading the pack. He’s small but he commands the game well, handling pressure and getting them into sets well. He plays with good pace and a tight handle, he passes and handles with both hands and he showed great vision and playmaking ability off the bounce.