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New York City & New Jersey High Hoops

5/31/02 The S.O.N.D.A.Y. Express, Astoria Beacon - J.H.S. 204 Spring Classic played 5 of 16 regular season sessions as of last weekend. The game summaries are on the S.O.N.D.A.Y. Express Spring Classic page.

5/31/02 Adrian Armstrong tells me that UDC 2002 begins the weekend of June 15th. The seven divisions and almost 80 teams are on the UDC 2002 page.

5/31/02 Nathan Blue: 'The Queens Rim Rockers will be having tryouts this saturday at IS 141 located on 37th st and 21st ave. Just minutes away from the N/W Trains. Directions are easily found on www.QueensRimrockers.com You cannot be entering college this September. The tryouts will be start at 12:30 pm. So please bring your "A" game. If you are interested in the tryouts just send me an e mail back letting me know you will be there at: rsbisthenyc@webtv.net.'

5/31/02 NJ Hoops: The Sonny Hill Srs. edged the Regional All Stars in an all star game tonight at Villanova University.

5/30/02 Antonio Cannon: 'The Kenny Anderson Summer Basketball Classic opening day will be Sat. June 22nd. Players cannot turn the next age until after 9/1/02. I am looking to fill two spots in the 19u super senior division, and one spot in the men unlimited division. Upon the entry of these three teams I will complete the schedules. For more info email AJC9242@aol.com or call 917 418-3179.' Web note: Teams by division are on the Kenny Anderson Summer Basketball Classic, 2002 page.

5/30/02 All Star Report: On Thursday, May 30th at Villanova's Jake Nevin Gym, elite high school players from Philadelphia and the surrounding region will compete in an all-star game sponsored by the Sonny Hill League.

5/29/02 The S.O.N.D.A.Y. Express, Astoria Beacon - J.H.S. 204 Spring Classic resumes tomorrow; the biddie and midget tournament has already played 5 of 16 regular season sessions. Details are on the S.O.N.D.A.Y. Express Spring Classic page.

5/29/02 Greg Swaim: 'Wanted to remind everyone of our GregSwaim.com bigTime Summer Jam tournaments for both girls and boys youth basketball teams. Summer Jam I will be held in Stillwater, OK on June 14-16th and Summer Jam II will be held in Stillwater, OK on August 9-11. To register online, simply go to www.gregswaim.com/tourney.html so you don't miss out on these terrific events. Greg Swaim Recruiting Service (www.gregswaim.com). bigTime College Shootouts & Greg Swaim Radio Show Phone: (405) 417-6719 E-mail: greg@gregswaim.com.'

5/29/02 Karine Fréchette, Coordonnatrice aux événements: 'The Quebec Basketball Federation cordially invites you to participate in the biggest tournament in eastern Canada. We have spots available. The event will be held downtown Montreal this summer, July 20th to 23rd. It goes without saying that the reputation of the Montreal International Basketball Festival has been well established throughout the years. Last year, more than 100 teams from the U.S.A. and Canada took part in the Festival. This event not only offers a great playing experience but also provides an unforgettable cultural experience for all the members of your team.

For further information, please contact the Quebec Basketball Federation at 514-252-3057 ext. 3524 or reach us through the Internet at www.basketball.qc.ca and leave your name address, phone and fax number and we will send you information and registration form.'

5/29/02 Stephen T. Pappas: 'Our club is looking to fill the following slots for games: Fri 5/31 6:10-7:30 PM 14 & under, 7:30-9:00 PM 14 & under, Sat 6/1 9:00-10:30 AM 13 & under, 10:30-12:00 PM 15 & under, 12:00-1:30 PM 17 & under, 1:30-3:00 15 & under, 3:00-4:30 16 & under, 4:30-6:00 16 & under. If you are in the New Jersey area and would like to play please contact me as soon as possible as I would like to book ASAP. The games will be played at the College of St. Elizabeth in the Morristown (Morris County) area on a full size NCAA court. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to give me a call. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Stephen T. Pappas, New Jersey Basketball Association, Inc./AAU, PO Box 596, Newton, New Jersey 07860 Ph: 973-300-0828 Fx: 973-300-0838. Web: www.newjerseybasketballassoc.com.'

5/29/02 WinstonKelly@GameBall: 'Our young ladies are clearly starting to take back some space on center stage with regard to the national women's basketball scene. Every young lady growing up playing basketball in New York should be excited about the opportunities that are available to New York's top players. This year for the first time New York will have double figure (twelve) representation in the annual All-American Camps, between the Nike All-American Camp in Indiana and the Adidas Top Ten All-American Camp in Atlanta. Nike invites what it considers the top eighty (80) girls in the country and Adidas invites what it considers the top two hundred (200) girls in the country. The following young ladies will represent New York at the All-American Camps: Juniors, Class of (2003) -- Natalia Benton, 6'2/C, Global Studies HS, Adidas Camp, Leilani LeGrand, 5'8/PG, St. Mary's HS, Adidas Camp, Cori Chambers, 5'11/WF, Ursuline School, Adidas Camp, Shay Doron, 5'9/2G, Christ the King HS, Nike Camp, Amanda LoCascio, 5'8/PG, Christ the King HS, Adidas Camp, Corinne Turner, 6'2/C, Christ the King HS, Adidas Camp, Kia Wright, 5'7/PG, Copiague HS, Adidas Camp. Sophomores, Class of (2004) -- Crystal Bellinger, 5'10/2G, Our Savior New America School, Adidas Camp, Nkolika Anosike, 6'4/C, St. Peter's HS, Adidas Camp, Shannon Bobbitt, 5'5/PG, St. Raymond's HS, Adidas Camp, Freshmen, Class of (2005) -- Kia Vaughn, 6'4/C, St. Michael's Academy, Adidas Camp, Nakejia Kelly, 5'7/PG, Christ the King HS, Adidas Camp.

I apologies if I have left anyone off the list, but these are the names that I have confirmed so far with Nike and Adidas.

Also Class of (2005) freshman Lisa-Ann Claxton, 5'5/PG, Cardinal O'Hara HS in Philadelphia, who plays with the Long Island Wave and who's family lives on Long Island will also be attending the Adidas Camp. Class of (2004) sophomore Matee Avajon, 5'8/PG, Shabazz HS in New Jersey, but plays AAU Basketball with Walter Welsh's Excel/Gauchos will also be attending the Adidas Camp.

5/28/02 New York Elite Tops City Rocks to Claim 2002 GymRat Challange Title. Baltimore Bombers Claim 16:U Crown, NY Ravens Win 15:U Championship. Juan Diego Tellos Pallacious Named Tournament MVP. Web note: Their web site is at http://gymratunlimited.com/.

5/28/02 Nathan Blue: 'Brandon Wilson 6'2 combo guard from Long Island Lutheran. Has been featured in Slam Magazine as well as took his team to Glens Falls with over 20ppg. Wilson was also in adidas ABCD Camp this past summer, teaming up with CHSAA Player of the Year, Curtis Sumpter. Wilson will sign on Wednesday with University of Maryland-Eastern Shore which is a D1 college that competes in the MEAC.

Wilson has the shot at getting Freshman of the Year if he continues to keep improving as the years pass. He is one of the players who played on a talented team when he was younger which had Charlie Villanueva, Petey Nelson, Jomo Belfor and Ben Gordon. Wilson is a real good kid, with a great support system behind him. His mother and father (Big Ed) and Nathan Blue wish him all the luck at the next level.'

5/28/02 NJ Hoops: The Trenton Tigers beat the New Jersey Basketball Association 66 - 48 ... in the championship of the 17 & Under Division of the NJBA Tournament. And the Bergen Blaze topped the New Jersey Basketball Association 78 - 66 ... in the championship of the 16 & Under bracket

5/27/02 The Metro NY Boys AAU Championship results: The 10 under Gauchos almost doubled LI Lightning 53 - 27 behind Tavor Dickenson (13), Shane Southwell (11) and Shagell Stokes (6) as AJ Baume and Dilan Phillipeaux had 9 and 7 for LIL.

The 11 under game was far more competitive; the Unique All Stars bested the CAS Warriors 45 - 39. Balanced scoring from the UAS trio of Josh Malone (11), James Bate (11) and Josh Elbaum (8) offset the high scoring CAS duo, Seck Barry (16) and Woodward Ashton (14).

Team Next then took the 'chos in the 12 under game behind their superstar point guard, - Erving Walker who had 21 points including five treys. EW was helped by Lance Stephenson and Rhakee Begum who had 14 and 9 respectively. This Gauchos team plays its best ball when they get their big center, Allan Forbes involved but he was held to 4 points today and getting 16 from Jonathan Riggs was not enough.

The Gauchos easily won the 14 under tilt against the LI Lightning 80 - 49 after leading at the half 41 - 16. The 'chos 6-8 center, Curtis Kelly (14), Chris Skrelja (13), point guard Edger Sosa (12) and Kashief Pratt (10) dominated the Lightning as only the LIL's Tim Ambrosia reached double digits with 12 points while their own 6-5 center, Josh Frazier was held to 6 points.

The Gauchos 15 under team is impressively deep but today they relied on a game high (and day high) 27 points from 6-2 sophomore, Jr Mitchell to take the Staten Island Lightning 76 - 67. (I'm told that Jr is transferring from Midwood to Xaverian. If he is eligible anytime next season and plays like he did today, Coach Jack Alessi will be one very happy Clipper skipper.) Meanwhile Jerrell Mills (4) ran the point for the Gauchos while Steve Walker (12), Weyinmi Efejuku (8 points and a few chuckles as the Island Garden's Jim Fox tried to pronounce Weymi's full name at the awards presentation - better you than me, Jim!) and J Gooden (7) each added to the scoring. Moore Catholic's freshman point guard, Kyle McAlarney (16) outplayed Mills and once again looked like the real deal. He was helped by Doug Elwell (14), Paul Anderson (13) and Tim Downing, whose 6 points included a wrap around layup that was the play of the day.

The 16 under game matched the super Westchester Hawks vs the underdog LI Silver Bullets and the underdog at one point led by 4 and trailed only 36 - 30 at halftime. Bullet point guard John Ludemann had a game high 19 but center John Garcia had only six, all in the first half. Meanwhile the Hawks center Quentin Martin (16), wing Dave McClure (14), point guard Brett Loscalzo (11 points and a very nice floor game), Taj Finger (10) and Jason Holmes helped win it for the Hawks 69 - 48 going away.

The Island Garden is the home of the Long Island Lightning and the 13 under game appropriately matched the Walsh LIL against the Dingle LIL. Coach Joe Walsh's team led 17 - 10 at halftime and barely hung on for a 30 - 27 victory as Dingle LIL point guard. Corey Fisher hoisted a half court heave that grazed the rim as the buzzer sounded. Corey had 9 and Darius Gabriel 8 for the losers , while Kirby Williams (11) Vinny Nabal (8) and A Gabriel (6) paced the winners.

The 13 under game was played out of sequence to give the 16 under Westchester Hawks champs a breather. They played the NY Ravens in the day's final matchup, the 17 under championship game where they lost 63 - 55. No shame there. Doug McClure (16) and Brett Loscalzo (8) and teammates were overmatched and exhausted. The Artie Greene Ravens came with eight men and they all contributed -- Brian Laing (16), Louie McCroskey (15), Daon Merritt (10), Miguel Garcia (10), Chester Taylor (10), Tariq Atckins (4), Gavin Grant (4) and Corey Simmons (4). The bad news for St Raymond fans next year is that they don't have a Shagari Alleyne, Chris Taft center. At 6-6 Gavin Grant is their tallest player and he likes to play outside the paint. The good news is that they have the eight players on the court today and the sophomores to be in Shawn Hilliard, Davon Baker and Charles Vasser.

5/27/02 The Metro NY Boys AAU Championship is today - Monday, May 27 @ the Island Garden Arena. The 9:00, 10 under game is LI Lightning vs Gauchos, 10:15, 11 under is CAS Warriors vs Unique All Stars, 11:30, 12 under is Team Next vs Gauchos, 1:00 game is 14 under Gauchos vs. Lightning - Baron, 2:30, 15 under is SI Lightning vs Gauchos, 4:00, 16 under is Silver Bullets (pinch hitting for the Gauchos) vs Westchester Hawks, 5:30 game is 13 under LI Lightning Walsh vs LI Lightning Dingle and at 7:00 it's the 17 under NY Ravens vs Westchester Hawks.

5/27/02 Dennis Avila: 'The RimRockers are looking for committed ball players that want to learn and excel in basketball. If your are interested please email one of the following: Nate Blue 18 & under at: rsbisthenyc@webtv.net, Dennis Avila 16 & under at: queensrimrockers@aol.com, Lou. Xifaras 14 & under at: Rice41@aol.com, or John Mc Graw:Girls 14u, 16u and 18u at: umjoker96@iwon.com.'

5/26/02 Durham HeraldSun: Wisconsin standout could give UNC big frontcourt help.

5/26/02 Daily News: Roundball Round Table -- City hoop powers set summit to seek solutions -- part of the state of basketball.

5/25/02 JD Walsh: 'There are still openings for: The Mike Jarvis - JD Walsh Offensive Skills Weekend Workshop Sat. Sun. 9am-5pm June 29-30th. Boys and Girls grades 3-12. Cost $130 includes ball and t-shirt! St. John the Baptist H.S. West Islip , NY (about 50 mins from Midtown Tunnel). For further information please call (631) 757-9827.'

5/25/02 Coach 'Rock' Eisenberg: 'I wanted to take this chance to announce that all of our graduating basketball seniors at Tilden H.S. will be attending college in the fall. Four of our student/athletes Taj Moore, William Edwards, Ramon Alonzo Ramon and Ralph Daniel will be going to Mowhawak Valley CC. while Phil David will attend Morrisville C.C. Team capt. Haslyn Cozier will be going to Fulton Montgomery C.C.and senior class president Shawn Williams will be going to the Brandeis University T.Y.P. program on a full academic scholarship. On the girls' side team captain and our only senior, Syisha Henry will be playing for S.U.N.Y. Old Westbury next year after getting a full E.O.P. grant .Good luck to all the Blue Devils in college next year!'

5/25/02 ESPN: More on Christopher Robin School - Private eligibility factory coming under closer scrutiny.

5/25/02 PrepStars: Memorial Day weekend is one of the biggest for AAU basketball, with two super tournaments featuring a who's who of the national elite. An obscene number of top players will spend their weekends in either North Carolina or Indiana.

5/24/02 Web note: There are 19 pictures on the May, 2002 Pictures page, so it may load slowly.

5/24/02 kackert@edit.nydailynews.com: 'The links for the latest state of basketball, DeCesare's latest and Bonnie K. Henderson is wrong. It just takes you back to the old page.' Web note: Thanks for the heads up. I see the the latest version with Brian's comments via AOL using Internet Explorer. Try hitting the refresh button. If that doesn't work cut and paste the following: http://www.nycnjhoops.com/gtd020503.htm onto the url window and hit enter. I don't think this is my coding problem. I think it's an AOL quirk! Which means it won't be fixed in our lifetime.

5/24/02 Nathan Blue: 'I would like to let everybody know that I will be the head coach of the Queens RimRockers 18 under. Starting next week I will be having practice out of our home gym in Queens. We have all age groups for boys and girls basketball. Queens RimRockers made a debut last summer on the local scene. All returning HS players who aren't playing on anybody's crew and want to play for "Real Scout's" Queens RimRockers email me at rsbisthenyc@webtv.net. We expect to have our first practice next week. So if your committed and have no prior commitments this summer. And are returning to HS with elgiblity get back to me Nathan Blue aka Real Scout.'

5/24/02 Dwayne "Coach D" Murray: 'Mt. Vernon BasketballMt. Vernon Knights' Sr. SG William Cherry, has signed a letter of intent to attend Central Arizona Jr. College next fall. Cherry, known for his long distance shooting, will be sorely missed, but our hopes and best wishes will go with him to Arizona. Former Mt. Vernon standout, John Plenty, also attended Central Arizona, and has recently signed his national letter of intent to attend St. Francis of PA. Knights' senior PG, Jomo Belfor, is being recruited by DePaul, Wisconsin-Green Bay, Tennessee Tech and Rider.'

5/23/02 Bonnie K Henderson and Gary DeCesare -- on the state of basketball.

5/23/02 Melissa Conover: The Central Jersey Hawks now have a central website. If you can, please modify your team page for the Hawks to point to: www.Centraljerseyhawks.org.

5/23/02 iHigh: On The Hardwood -- Ranking high school players is the furthest thing from an exact science. Just look at history.

5/23/02 Newsday: 'Noble Walks On at Hofstra. All-Long Island guard Anthony Noble of Uniondale will attend Hofstra in the fall and play on the men's basketball team as an unrecruited walk-on. Noble, a 6-3 point guard, had 1,137 career points, 525 rebounds and 505 assists. Last year he averaged a triple-double with 22 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists to lead the Knights to a Nassau Class A championship. Noble was recruited by and offered scholarships from several Division I schools. If Noble makes enough of an impression next season, he could find some scholarship money the following year. Hofstra will graduate four seniors after this season and have as many full scholarships to offer players. Hofstra coach Tom Pecora could not comment on Noble because of NCAA regulations regarding walk-ons.'

5/23/02 Prepspotligh.com: Top 40 Point Guards for '02 lists 7. Taquan Dean 6’2 - Neptune, N.J. - Louisville, 9. Elijah Ingram 5’10 - St Anthony, N.J. – St. Johns 16. Allan Ray 6’2 - St Raymond, N.Y. - Villanova 19. Randy Foye 6’2 – Newark, N.J. - Villanova 22. Mike Lasma 6’0 - Burlington, N.J. - UMass 26. Gary Ervin 6’0 - Robeson, N.Y. – Prep school and 27. Donnie McGrath 6’2 - JFK, N.Y.- Providence.

5/22/02 Metro NY Boys AAU Championship is Monday, May 27 @ Island Garden Arena. 9:00 10 under is LI Lightning vs Gauchos, 10:15 11under is CAS Warriors vs Unique All Stars, 11:30 12 under is Team Next vs Gauchos, 1:00 14 under Gauchos vs. Lightning - Baron, 2:30 15 under is SI Lightning vs Gauchos, 4:00 16 under is Silver Bullets (pinch hitting for the Gauchos) vs Westchester Hawks, 5:30 13 under is LI Lightning Walsh vs LI Lightning Dingle and 7:00 17 under is NY Ravens vs Westchester Hawks.

5/22/02 Some final thought on the IS8 Spring Classic, 2002. Sammy Mejia won the player of the year award. According to his LPAC coach, Ruben Tavarez, Sammy is currently in Storm King and will be there again next year. Because of his age Sammy may not be eligible for this June's Rumble in the Bronx, but he'll be playing elsewhere with LPAC this summer. Boys & Girls freshman, Eugene Harvey won the newcomer of the year. He and B & G's Carlos Collazo will be an impressive backcourt duo next season. The IS8 first team was Jason Fraser, Curtis Sumpter, John Winchester, Allan Ray and Gary Ervin. The second team was Charlie Villanueva, Eliah Karron Clark, Carl Benn, Ricky Soliver and Sebastian Telfair while the third team was Chris Taft, Elijah Muldrow, CJ Okegeri, Donnie McGrath and Jamar Wilson. Many, many thanks to the IS8 trio of Pete Edwards, Hassan Jennings and Anthony Myers who make IS8 the success that it is. Pete tells me that the summer session will begin in mid-June for biddies, midgets and juniors. Naturally, High Hoops will be there for the show. From start to finish it's all on the IS 8 Spring Classic, 2002 page.

5/22/02 ESPN: Scouting another Spiece Run 'N Slam Classic includes evaluations of Sundiatta Gaines, Russell Robinson, Jabbari Samuels and Sebastian Telfair.

5/22/02 Coach JoAnn Arbitello, Head Women's Basketball Coach at Weschester Community College: 'Westcos Summer Slam Games played at Westchester Community College July 12th to 14th Boys - 8 and under, 10 and under, 12 and under Girls - 10 and under and 16 and under. 4 games guaranteed. For more info email posdirball@aol.com or call 718-949-4694.'

5/21/02 CBS Sportsline Grassroots: 'Villanova-bound McDonald's All-American Jason Fraser tallied 37 points and 16 rebounds in leading the Long Island Panthers to this spring's championship of New York City's ultra-competitive IS8 league in Queens. The Panthers beat SONDAY Express in Sunday's championship game. Fellow 'Nova signee Curtis Sumpter added 16 points in the victory. Class of 2003 Jersey swingman Sean Banks and Tennessee-bound shooting guard John Winchester paced SONDAY. The All-IS8 first team included Fraser, the pride of Amityville, N.Y.; Sumpter, the MVP of NYC's inimitable Catholic league; Winchester, the thin but gritty gunner; Bronx combo guard Allan Ray, yet another Panther earmarked for 'Nova; and Riverside Church's Ricky Soliver, a Bronx guard going to Iona.'

5/21/02 The all boys Metro NY Regionals were held at the Island Garden - 45 Cherry Valley Ave, West Hempstead, NY 11552. The finals for all the NY Metro Regionals will be played at the Island Garden on Monday May 27 ~~ Memorial Day.

5/21/02 All Star Report: Tournament of Champions 17 and Under Pools and Schedule. Participating teams include the NJ Celtics, Playaz Black, Playaz Gold, LI Panthers and NY Ravens.

5/21/02 Howie Frajberg and Barry Knapp have scheduled two single elimination 8 team, 19 and under tournaments for Sunday August 4th and Sunday August 25 th at the Riverdale YMHA @ 5625 Arlington Ave, near 256 th Street just west of Riverdale Avenue. The entry fee is $160. The first game begins at 10:00 AM continuing through to the seventh, championship game in the early evening. There will be individual trophies as well as first and second place team trophies but teams must supply their own shirts. For more info call Howie at (718) 548-8200 x 241 or email Barry at baknhoop@aol.com.

5/20/02 Coach Paul Gropper: 'I am surprised I did not see anything about the ESPN show Outside The Lines with Bob Ley on the Christopher Robbins Prep School in NYC that gives basketball players H.S, diplomas just passing kids who attend this school and they interviewed a teacher who swore grades he gave were changed. It is amazing all these years of me following H.S. basketball that I never heard of this school. Have heard of Redemption and other prep schools but not this one. The report showed this school is not even accredited buy the NCAA excepts the diploma saying it is not there resposibility to regulate schools but the states. Obviously coaches know about this place and are sending players there not only to get a degree but also to get credits they can use at their school. This and other things must be policed by coaches and administraters at the H.S level. Finally what makes this real funny is I asked some family members who are educaters if they heard of this school and my brother said didn;t I know Christopher Robins spelled differently is a character in Winnie The Pooh which I thought was wild as this school seems like a real joke and it would be wild if he named the school after the character.' Web note: If anyone knows of a rebroadcast time please email nycnjhoops@aol.com and I will post. Meanwhile there's this from ESPN - A place where hoop dreams come true.

5/20/02 Phil Diasparra-Westchester Hawks AAU 16u team played at the Island Garden this weekend in the regionals. They went 6-0 this weekend and qualified for the Nationals in Detroit this June. The Hawks played the Silver Bullets, Rise Above, L.I. Lightening in their pool. Then they played the Rise Panthers, BQE, and the L.I. Panthers in the semis. Hawks will play on Memorial Day in the finals of the 16u Regionals at the Island Garden. Last week they qualified in the 17u Regionals and will play in the finals on Memorial Day also. Great team effort all weekend and the team has something to be proud of. Congratulations to the team: Dave McClure, Taj Finger, Quentin Martin, Chris Diasparra, Brett Loscalzo, Jason Holmes, Nick Friedman, Frank Ward, Leon Hill, Mike Devere, Ron Miles.

5/20/02 Coach Jim Hart: 'Tiki Mayben is the starting point guard for our (Albany City Rocks) 17 and under team (not 16). And my prediction of Tiki being nationally ranked by the summer has come through in a big way. He is currently rated the #1 freshman in the nation (yes 1 nationally) by Clark Francis of the Hoop Scoop.'

5/20/02 NCAA Sanctioned Events, 2002 -- Five Star Basketball Camps/ Hoop Zone Monster Showcase. Top High School Boys from all over -- July 8-11 - At the Hoop Zone - Englewood, NJ. Only 5 minutes from FDU - the site of Adidas ABCD Camp. High school Summer League June 24 - July 31 is sanctioned during live period. Call for info Danny Brown (201) 568-7422.

5/20/02 NCAA sanctioned league for high school boys and girls starts July 1. Contact coach Jake Edwards at shomebbal@aol.com.

5/20/02 John P Miciotta: 'Jason Fraser and Curtis Sumpter, whom fans at IS8 have enjoyed so much the past few years, put their personal stamp on what will be remembered as their last one before heading off to Villanova in September. Fraser had a dominant effort scoring 37 points and grabbing 16 boards, while Sumpter scored 16 and did all the "little things" the Panthers needed before punctuating the win with a thunderous slam of his own. Together they led the Panthers to a come from behind 86-81 win over SONDAY Express.' More on the IS 8 Spring Classic, 2002 page.

5/19/02 The Panthers are the IS 8 Spring Classic, 2002 champions with a come from behind 86 - 81 victory over SONDAY Express. Game MVP and McDonald's All American, Jason Fraser, had an awesome 37 point, 16 rebound effort in the game.

5/19/02 The IS8 Spring Classic, 2002 championship refs were Mike Hulen (left) and Mike Bennett shown relaxing at halftime. The Panthers are the IS 8 Spring Classic, 2002 champions with a come from behind (they were down by 13 at one point in the first half) 86 - 81 victory over SONDAY Express. Game MVP and McDonald's All American, Jason Fraser, had an awesome 37 point, 16 rebound effort in the game. Keith Mason of The Apple's Best Ballaz has details on the IS 8 Spring Classic, 2002 page.

5/19/02 Jessehoop: 'These are the four teams that have just qualified for 16 year old nationals in Long Islnad Garden - Long Island Silver Bullets, Gauchos, Westchester Hawks and Rockland.'

5/19/02 Insider Hoops: Class of 2002 Final Player Rankings includes # 5 Jason Fraser, # 11 Lenny Cooke, # 33 Elijah Ingram, # 37 Randy Foye, # 41 Curtis Sumpter, # 49 Allen Ray, # 78 Taquan Dean, # 84 John Winchester and # 98 Ricky Soliver.

5/19/02 School Sports: Class of 2002: Top 150 Boys' Basketball Recruits lists 4. Lenny Cooke, 7. Jason Fraser, 28. Elijah Ingram, 39. Allan Ray, 47. Curtis Sumpter, 54. Taquan Dean, 61. Francisco Garcia, 63. Randy Foye, 121. Donnie McGrath, 127. John Winchester and 138. Tim Doyle.

5/18/02 John P Miciotta 'This afternoon's action at IS8 saw SONDAY Express escape vs. the Church on a spinning lay-up by John Winchester in game one. That was followed by a double digit win for the Panthers that will be remembered for two outstanding individual performances.' .Details on the IS 8 Spring Classic, 2002 page.

5/18/02 Rashad Bell (pictured) was at IS 8 last night after a successful freshman year at Boston University. The Terriers were 22 - 9 last year making it to the NCAA. tourney for the first time since 1997. Rashad contributed to the BU attack by averaging 6.7 ppg. during the season, scoring in double figures for seven of his last eleven games, including an impressive 16 points in a tournament losing effort against powerful Cincinnati. The 6-6 forward played for the St Francis Prep Terriers and coach Tim Leary during his distinguished high school career in NYC's CHSAA. league.

5/18/02 John P Miciotta: 'Shamar Green, the 6'4" blue collar forward from Xaverian High told High Hoops today that he had signed a letter of intent with Clarion State College, a Division II program in Pennsylvania. This is a terrific get for Clarion which has long been an outstanding D-II program in this region. They get a player who gives them rebounding ability, a knack for scoring inside and terrific defense. More importantly they get a young man who will be a terrific presence in the locker room, a great teammate, and a worthy representative of the school on and off the court. This is a fine fit for both Shamar and for Clarion, and we wish him good luck in his endeavors both on and off the court.'

5/17/02 Tomorrow's first semifinal game at IS 8 will match tonight's winners - Riverside vs. SONDAY Express at 11:00 followed by the Panthers vs. Rebel at 12:30. Tonight was Rice prom night so the Church was handicapped playing without Kiki Clarke or Jason Wingate. Sebastian (19 points) and the Bridge took advantage in the first quarter for a 22 - 19 lead. but Bassie picked up his third foul with 4:09 to play in the half and the Bridge up by one. They never led again, trailing by seven at the half, by eleven after three and losing 85 - 78. The Bridge starters - Sebastian, Chris Taft (18), Karron Clarke (20), Ramel Bradley (11) and Stewart Graddock (9) - scored enough to win, but they got little bench help and gave up too many easy baskets. Rickey Soliver (19), Bryon Lee (18), Willie Irick (10), Allen Shephard (10), Peedy Nelson (9) and a deep Hawk bench made the difference.

In the second game Bedford YMCA led SE 27 - 25 after one, but trailed for the rest of the game. Bedford got most of their scoring from four players - Benny Utley (24), Shaun Wynn (22), Karim Telfer (15) and Akim Neverson (15) - while Danny Green helped on the perimeter and Mike Castro was a defensive force inside. SONDAY had transportation problems as Sean Banks (16), Eric Davis (9) and John Winchester (19) each arrived late. Japhet McNeil (16), Daon Merrit (18), Justin Marshall (9) and George Jefferson kept it close until the reinforcements arrived.

5/17/02 It was a tough evening for the favorites at the IS 8 quarterfinals last night. The Church's Future Stars had beaten Rebel by 40 during the regular season, but Derrick Character (sick) and Quincy Douby (birthday boy?) were missing in action and AJ Price (14 pooints) arrived late. The Stars trailed 24 - 6 after one quarter but used a 23 - 2 run to make it even at 33 by halftime. Rebel led 53 - 46 after three and won 82 - 76. Amadou Fall did show up and played for Rebel Dou had 17 points and teamed with 6-9 Brian Franklin to offset the Stars' young studs, 6-6 Terrell Biggs (10) and 6-9 John Oates. The Stars' point, Gary Ervin (34 pts.) was at his usual 'drive at will' best, but in the fourth quarter Franklin was usually there with key blocks and rebounds. Gary Forbes (11) had similar problems trying to take it to the rim for the Stars. Ultimately the game was won by the superior perimeter play of Rebel's CJ Okogeri (32) and Chad Timberlake (19). The Boys & Girls backcourt of Eugene Harvey and Carlos Collazo did not provide much offense for Rebel, but they kept the ball moving.

Meanwhile, for all of the 'state of basketball' lamentations of the last few weeks on this site there is now a reason for joy and hope. Coach Robert (Rebel) Boyd is generally acknowledged to be a straight shooter and a good guy. He will be coaching in an IS 8 semifinal game for the first time this Saturday at 12:30.

In the evening's second game the Mustangs led the Panthers 15 - 14, 31 - 26 and 48 - 45 through three quarters. Then Jason Fraser (12 points) fouled out with 30 seconds left and his Panthers trailing 55 - 53. The Mustangs' Louie McCroskey (21 points and arguably the best player on the court) hit two free throws, Taquan Dean (9 points on that many shots and then some) hit a trey and Jerome Simmons made one and missed one foul shot. With five seconds left Aubin Scott (7 points) hit the game winning three for the Panthers who will now play in Saturday's first semifinal at 11:00. The Mustangs' Elijah Muldrow had a game high 22 points while Curtis Sumpter had 16 for the Panthers.

Riverside plays Sebastian's Brooklyn Juice Allstars in tomorrow's first game at 6:30 and at 8pm it's Bedford YMCA vs SONDAY Express.

5/15/02 Class 2004 coverage upped to over 70 and ranked on the class of 2004 page. For comments, suggestions and further evaluations email to nycnjhoops@aol.com.

5/15/02 All Star Report: Southern Invitational Recap -- Boo Williams team dispatched an ultra talented Tim Thomas Playaz (Gold) squad 84-65 in the championship game.

5/15/02 Coach Eric "Rock"Eisenberg: 'Regarding up and comers keep an eye on 6 '1' Nate Sudlow a sweet shooting high riser who Tom Kinchowsi likes alot and 6 ' 8' Phil Jones both currently juniors at Tilden High School. These two are legit D1 prospects with great upsides. My advice to all is get involved early.'

5/14/02 NJ Hoops 1st Team All State selection, Elijah Ingram of St. Anthony's was named a 2nd team All American selection by USA Today.

5/13/02 Vincent Davis: 'PRO STYLE Game 6 - Senior division -- Riverside Hawks 73 - Gauchos 67. MVP - David Sills, 27 points (Riverside Hawks), Sportsman - Levi Levine, 22 points (Gauchos).' More on the PRO STYLE 2K 2, Winter League Basketball page.

5/13/02 NJ Observer: 'Sunday @ IS8 -- The Riverside Future Stars, Queens Rim Rockers game went like this: a) The Church down 5 at half after being down by as many as 16! b) The Church starts out the 2nd half with a 10 - 0 run (now up by 5) c) Riverside leads through most of the second half d) Rim Rockers catch up and the game goes into OT e) 3 players fouled out (Tyrell Biggs, Derrick Character, Arturo Dubois) f) The Church wins in OT on a Gary Ervin steal. Great game. John Oates had a double/double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Gary Ervin played great, as did Gary Forbes, Quincy Douby and A.J. Price. The Rim Rockers have a VERY athletic team and they were without Elijah Ingram.'

Pete Edwards: 'IS8 playoffs are down to eight teams with the quarterfinals this Thursday & Friday. Thursday 6:30 Future Stars vs Rebel, 8 pm Panthers A vs Mustangs. Friday 6:30 Riverside vs. Brooklyn Juice Allstars 8pm Bedford YMCA vs SONDAY Express. Tthe semis are on Saturday at 11:00 and 12:30 while the Sunday championship game starts at 11:00.' More on the IS 8 Spring Classic, 2002 page.

5/13/02 Mike Neely: 'Staten Island Stingrays -- On May 21st and May 22nd we are hosting a 16 und Tournament. All games to be played at St. Johns Univ. (Howard Ave.) Staten Island. We would love to have your Team enter. It's 3 maybe 4 games 300.00 per team, all games played on college size court. Times:6:15pm, 7:15pm,8:15pm,9:15pm (16 min halves clock stops on everything in last 5 min). All other High School Rules Apply. If possible can you send me your contacts for the teams you had in your 16 und Division ? ( We are only looking for 5 more teams). Please call to confirm your entry: Mike Neely, 212-208-2150 or 718-948-7952. Then send check to : Mike Neely, 27 Midland Road, Staten Island, New York 10308 (be sure to include name of your team).'

5/13/02 Nick Blatchford, Director: 'Congratulations to the CAS Warriors Elite 17 and Under team, which returned from the Hoop Group/Bob Gibbons Invitational at the University of Virginia. Led by the outstanding play of 6'9 Junior WF Dante Milligan (26 pts vs. Beach Ball Select) and 6'2 Sophomore Combo G Manny Quezada (36 pts vs. Fairfax Stars), the Warriors went 3-0 in their pool. The Warriors fell to a tournament favorite DC Blue Devils team in a very close, tough, hard-fought playoff game. Nick Nolan, Ruandy Melo, Darren Johnson and Tsakane Ngobeni, all mid-major prospects, played extremely well, as did Glen Chester, Ruben Montilla, Reid Wittman and 6th grade prodigy, Christian Lewis. Thanks to head coach Fred Benjamin, who led the way and Steve Simon, who assisted.'

5/12/02 Tom Jennings: I would like to congratulate coaches Tom Karger and Phil Diasparra and the players of the Westchester Hawks 16u Boys team for their outstanding accomplishments this past weekend at the Island Garden. Earlier in the year after discussions with both coaches we agreed that to get ready for their regional play in the 16 year-old-bracket they would play up in the 17 year-old regionals. We knew they wouldn`t be overmatched however I never dreamed they would beat all the 17`s they faced and now will be in the finals on Memorial Day. Great Stuff! Third year in a row we will be represented in the finals at the Garden. By the way we do not let our teams play on days that the SAT`s are given, we have no sponsors (no sneaker deals) and we do not take any players south of Westchester County. How do we account for our successes?. We started out with the crazy idea that we wanted to teach kids how to play team basketball, not steal players, recruit every stud we met and pay em. So far that has brought us much joy and fun (every now and then I must remember that this is supposed to be fun). We got kids up here that can play too!'

5/12/02 All Star Report: Sabes Foundation Invitational Underclassmen Evaluations includes Juan Diego Tello Palacios, A.J. Price, Tyrell Biggs, John Oates and Derrick Character. Sabes Foundation Invitational Class of 2003 Evaluations includes Gary Ervin, Quincy Douby, Willie Irick and Oumar Sylla.

5/11/02 The NYC Mustangs began today's championship play at PRO STYLE with a 29 - 26 Superbiddy victory over the Gauchos despite a game high 13 points from the 'chos Tyriek Johnson. The Mustangs' Steven Whittingham was the game MVP with a nine point effort.

The Biddy championship game was the only blowout of the day as Long Island Lightning led wire to wire for a 47 - 25 victory over Team Next. MVP Malik Boothe led LIL and all scorers with 11 points while fifth grader, Lance Stephenson had 8 for Team Next.

In the Junior Miss game Abyssinian led for each quarter but barely held on to beat Kips Bay by two with a buzzer beating bank shot from the division's high scorer, Vyera David. Jasmine Moore had 15 and the game MVP for Abyssinian while Brittany Ray notched 11 for Kips Bay.

In the Midget game the Church trailed for three quarters before eeking out a 70 - 67 win over SONDAY Express. Derrick Character won the MVP award for Riverside witha 24 point effort and Chris Martin got the Sportsmanship honors with his 14 point game for SE.

The Church looked on its way to second championship title as they had a 30 - 25 edge over Kips Bay at the Junior game half. But an eight point swing put KB up after three and the won 65 - 60 going away. Chester Tyler had 17 for the Game MVP and Terrell Elliston 14 for the Church. More later on the PRO STYLE 2K 2, Winter League Basketball page.

5/11/02 Coach Eric "Rock"Eisenberg & Coach Brett Wilson -- on the state of basketball.

5/10/02 Vincent Davis, Marquitta Harris and Alvin Knight began this year's PRO STYLE tournament back in January and tomorrow is their championship Saturday. The Schedule and matchups are on the PRO STYLE 2K 2, Winter League Basketball page.

5/10/02 All Star Report: Southern Invitational Preview including T1T Playaz and NJ Demons.

5/9/02 Steve Finamore is watching Sebastian play bball in Ft. Wayne, Indiana but based on this email it sounds like his heart is still in Brooklyn.

5/9/02 Brooklyn Scout: 'Kareem Lloyd, who led Benjamin Banneker HS to the 2000-01 PSAL "B" title, has signed a national letter of intent to attend New Mexico JC this fall. A 6-6 forward, Lloyd averaged 16 points and 10 rebounds during his senior season. He attended Crichton (TN) College in the fall and is currently taking classes at Globe Tech. Lloyd was recruited by NMJC at last month's Big Apple JUCO Exposure Games and will join another recent Thunderbird signee, South Shore HS point guard Karim Telfer.'

5/9/02 Nathan Blue: 'Tonight's games will settle the teams for a good weekend of basketball at IS8. Here are the games so far and I hope to see you all out at the 8 this weekend. Saturday's playoff games are as follows 9:30am Brooklyn Bridge vs LPAC, 11am Panthers "B" vs winner of Long Island Gaels & Bedford YMCA tonight, 12:30pm Riverside Church vs Dyckman, 2pm Sonday Express vs winner of Gauchos & Sonday Express II. Sunday's playoff games are 9:30am Rebel vs Renaissance Warriors, 11am Rise Above vs Mustangs, 12:30 Future Stars vs Rim Rockers/Exodus, 2:00pm Long Island Panthers "A" vs Real Scout.'

5/9/02 Villanova.fansonly: Baker Dunleavy and Michael Claxton to Join Men's Basketball Team. Pair will enroll at Villanova and contribute as non-scholarship athletes.

5/9/02 Coach Tom Sampogna: 'Attention all players and coaches - The Westcos Basketball Program of Westchester Communtiy College is holding a Skills Clinic for kids ages 9-16, boys and girls. The dates are Saturdays - June 1st, 8th and 15th, 2002. Time is 9am to 2pm at Westchester Community College. The fee is $35 per player. For more information call Coach Tom Sampogna, Men's Asst. Basketball Coach at 914-785-7895 or 914-523-7213.'

5/9/02 Angelo Robles, Connecticut Flame: 'Successful tri-state AAU program is looking to enter the Adidas Big Time scheduled for mid summer in Las Vegas. This is widely considered by many to be the nation's top summer basketball tournament. We are currently looking for a select few players ages 15 and 16 to top off our roster. Front court size and / or stellar shooters would be an area of interest. If interested please call coach Robles at 1-800-606-1322 x223 or e-mail me at angelor@snet.net. Serious inquiries only please. There will be some cost associated with travel to Las Vegas.'

5/9/02 Coach Jake Edwards: 'I would like to know something. Why is it ok for college coaches to move on and get new jobs for more money at other universities and get released from their contracts by their athletic directors, but when a potential student athlete changes their mind about a school, that school does not want to release them? Why do coaches feel that they own the kids? I feel that this is not fair to the student athlete who just want to do things that are best for themselves, (which is how it's supposed to be). If the high school coaches take a stand and make some of the schools suffer for doing our kids wrong we would have more cooperation from these universities.'

5/9/02 All Star Report: Spiece Run N' Slam Wrap-up (Evaluations, All-Tourney, etc.) -- 'Sebastian Telfair 5-11 Soph. Brooklyn (Lincoln) NY New York Gauchos. Played for the 17-under NY Gauchos. Did not always live up to his billing, as he is wild and undsiciplined at times, but if anyone tells me there were five better kids at this event than Telfair, I will personally check them into an insane asylum! This kid has Allen Iverson like explosiveness to the hoop and he just leaves defenders grasping for air with his crossover and quick release and range off the dribble. If he can calm down and distribute the ball more like a true point guard, he could be the best ever out of New York! '

5/8/02 Jerry Aquino: 'Coaches, only a few spots open short wait times all games played in West Orange NJ. The WOBC Tipoff Classic May 25th & 26th. Boys & Girls teams ages 11,12,13,14,15,16 are welcome. The tournament is $350 per team. 4 games are guaranteed. All games played at the same location in West Orange NJ. Short wait times. Easy access to major highways. Full size wood floor excellence lighting. For more information call 973-781-6831.'

5/8/02 NJ Hoops: The Jersey City Heat topped the Central Jersey Hawks 64 - 54 tonight for the championship of the NJ State 15 & Under AAU Tournament.

5/8/02 NJO: Hudson Catholic's Darlington Okerulu has signed a national letter of intent with Division II basketball power St. Anselm College in New Hampshire

5/7/02 Maven on the private Redmen.com site's forum had a 'charming' post this morning concerning the 'state of basketball' posts on this site. I've asked Maven and Paul Massell, the site's moderator, for permission to repost it on this site. If I don't hear from them soon, I'll take their silence for permission. Maven and Paul: email to nycnjhoops@aol.com.

5/7/02 Coach Dwayne Morton, Peter Abraham, Debbie Bortner and LFBALL -- on the state of basketball.

5/7/02 'My name is Bob Starkman and I am the basketball coach at Broward Community College in Ft Lauderdale Florida. This past season I took over a men's team (2-28) that had only 15 wins in four seasons and has not had a winning season in 10 years. Previously, I was the women's coach. Being from New York, I still have long time close friends such as Eric "Rock" Eisenberg (Tilden), Mike Schiraldi (Brooklyn Beasts) and of course Ron Naclerio (Cardozo). These three have put me in contact with players and coaches throughout New York, Ricardo Knight (Sheepshead Bay) Joe Marino (Holy Cross) have contributed to Broward's best season in years (18-12). Recently, Rock introduced me to Gary De Cesare, who immediately recommended one of his players, Davonne Folkes, who then signed with Broward. A week later, Rock is coaching at the City Games and upon conclusion of that game he calls me and tells me about out a potential student athlete, Adrian Uter. The next night Naclerio goes to IS8 (his home away from home) watches the kid, talks with him and puts me in contact with his Coach, (Aiken /Springfield Gardens), after speaking with all of their parents and coaches he too signed with Broward. Schiraldi recommended Nate Daniels (a former Brooklyn Beast) and became a 1st team JUCO All American at Broward. It's coaches like them that should be commended as well as others for what they do and how they care for these kids!'

5/7/02 John P Miciotta: 'Sunday's games at IS8 saw some intriguing individual performances.' Details on the IS 8 Spring Classic, 2002 page.

5/7/02 Newsday: Lenny Cooke: Got Game? Brooklynite declares for NBA Draft.

5/6/02 Coach Carlton Screen, Tom Jennings, President Westchester Hawks, Tom Fraher, Mount Saint Michael Coach, Nathan Blue and coach Gary Charles -- on the state of basketball.

5/6/02 Nathan Blue: 'Tonight's playoff games in IS8 are Real Scout vs The Running Hustlers at 6:30 and JYO vs Mustangs at 8 pm.

5/6/02 Coach Kenny Pretlow: 'Riverside Church Risering Seniors copped the Sabes Invitational championship this weekend in Minnesota. They improved their record to 25-1 so far for the season. They opened up pool play with a tough 77-71 win over Syrma Georgia Willie Irick led the way with 19pts and 10 borads and Gary Ervin, Gary Forbes and Quincy Douby added 12 each. Courtney Johnson had 10 including a big three to put the game away. Next up was Kansas City Rocktown featuring Brandon Rush ,brother of Jaron and Kareem. Despite Rush's 26 the Church prevailed 78-69. Willie had 13pts, 8 boards, Gary Ervin 11, Gary Forbes 10 and soph Arturo Dubios 12pts 7 boards 4 blocks. The Church then beat the hosts Howard Pulley 71-62 with Quincy Douby 17pts, Gary Irvin 12pts 6 dimes, Gary Forbes 10, Willie and Arturo 8 each and each had 7 boards. The playoffs started with Bray Center (Wisconsin) and it was a rout 91-60. Willie 18pts, Gary Ervin & Quincy 13 each, Kojo Mensah and Courtney Johnson 10 each. The quarterfinals was a rematch vs. Howard Pulley and a 65-55 win for the Church. The game was a three point advantage at halftime but the Church steeped up the D in 3rd and held Pulley to 7pts to pull away. Gary Ervin led the way 15pts 7 dimes, Quincy added 14 & Willie 13 with 10 boards. The semis were also the Championship since Boo Williams could not stay to play after winning in the sem's. The game was vs. the Famlily form Detriot led by Michigan State bound Brandon Cotton and the Church pulled out a 59-55 win. Gary Ervin 19 pts 8 dimes as he outplayed Cotton,Quincy Douby 16 pts with 2 three's during the Church's 9-0 run to open up a lead for the Church. Willie was in foul trouble battling the Famlily's 6'9 and 6'10 big men. But Arturo Dubios came off the bench tohit 12 pts 6 boards 5 blocks and was key in the run. Courtney and Kojo alternated playing Cotton and held him to 9 pts including 0 in the 4th quarter. The Riverside Super Sophs aslo played for the championship and lost a heartbreaker in OT 63-61 to the Portland Legends. AJ Price, Derrick Character, Keith Benjamin, Jonathan Mitchell and Jimmy Walker were the main cogs. Terrell Biggs hurt his ankle and was not able to play much. Next up for both teams is the Nike Memorial Day Classic in Bloomington Indiana.'.

5/6/02 NJ Hoops: Tim Thomas Playaz beat the Roadrunners in the championship of the NJ State 17 & Under AAU Tournament.

5/5/02 Dwayne "Coach D" Murray, Mt. Vernon Basketball 'Coach DeCesare is right on the money. -- on the state of basketball.

5/5/02 FansOnly Football Recruiting: Virginia has a pledge from linebacker Marvin Richardson of East Orange-Bishop Francis, NJ.

5/5/02 Daily News: Jaspers May Take Peter Mulligan. Could land Jason Wingate, too.

5/4/02 Coach Rock Eisenberg: 'Re Quincy and Gary going to St Thomas More I feel that they both will benefit from the time they spend with coach Jere Quinn. Jere is a super coach and very simply the most unselfih person I have ever met in the big yime hoops world. If there were more of us like ''Quinny'' a lot more of the New York City kids that go to prep school would realy be getting the classroom work they need to become more successful when they get to college. This would give them the confidence and motivation to become more successful members of society. Remember, at St. Thomas More, these young men are truly students first and athletes second.'

5/4/02 Bballchuck: 'I agree with Gary DeCesare 100 %. ' JSHUTTLESWURTH: 'I have to say I agree with Coach D 110%' TEAMCARD2 : 'Honestly, this shouldn't be as complicated as others make it seem. -- on the state of basketball.

5/4/02 There's one IS8 game today at 12:30 and five tomorrow. Twenty-four of thirty-two teams make the IS8 playoffs with the Panthers 'A', Rebel (need to win tomorrow's last game vs winless Cobras) Rise Above (they brought their game), Future Stars, Church, Juice All Stars, Panthers 'B' (or Real Scout depending on the winner of tomorrow morning's first game) and SONDAY Express getting byes to next weekend's second round games with 9:30, 11:00, 12:30 and 2:00 starts. The other 16 teams play first round games at 6:30 and 8:00 Monday through Thursday this week. No games are scheduled for next Friday night. The quarterfinals are Thursday and Friday, 5/16 and 5/17, the semis are on Saturday at 11:00 and 12:30 while the Sunday, 5/19 championship game starts at 11:00. More on the IS 8 Spring Classic, 2002 page.

The second IS8 Friday night game was SONDAY Express vs Queens RimRockers, Exodus and it was boring for for the middle two quarters as SE extended a two point first 'phase' lead to 50 - 41 at the half and 77 - 60 after three. But a funny thing happened as the gym emptied out in the fourth quarter - some turnovers, some missed layups, an Artie Cox tech and a tie score with three minutes to play. New Savior point guard, Jamar Wilson (23) played a great game, but with his team trailing 94 - 92 with less than six seconds remaining his full court finger roll drive to the basket hit the back of the rim and bounced out. (Where have you gone Patrick Ewing?) A 6-8 North Carolina junior named Regis Kounedgie was QRR,E's latest mystery import and Pete Edwards was ragging him from the opening tip - 'This is IS8, not North Carolina'. No problem - Regis did not need to use any of his lifelines last night. Pete was a Regis fan club member by game's end ('the kid knows how to play the game'). He dropped 31, scored inside and out, moved well without the ball, set up his teammates with nice passes, defended and rebounded. He was the best player on a court filled with many very good players - Diego Aguilar (20), Konimba Diarra (twisted ankle early), Daon Merritt (22), John Winchester (22), Eric Davis (14), Japhet McNeil (12) and George Jefferson (10). Best of all, both Regis and Jamar were still looking for the ball in those last few tight minutes. QRR,E was missing Elijah Ingram (prom night at St Anthony), Oumar Sylla and Juan Diego Tellos Palacios but all three are expected for the playoffs. Unfortunately, Regis will probably not be back when QRR,E begins their playoff run with the Skyriders Tuesday night at 8:00 pm.

5/4/02 NY Post: Rice High's Christian Brown Going to St Francis.in Brooklyn. Web note: It's SAT Saturday and the Post is misplacing their decimal points. According to them Christian averaged 100 ppg, but I don't remember him being that good.

5/3/02 BooksNball: 'The clock is running out on the school year. With six weeks of classes to go before the Regents exams in June this is that time of the year to "focus" on that prize of passing your classes and keeping that GPA high. Also, tomorrow happens to be a SAT test date with some considering it "junior" day, the first time for next years seniors to take the test.

With that in mind I find it disappointing that there are teams leaving the city (Riverside to Indiana & Gauchoes to Minnesota, Tim Thomas Playerz for Spring Fling II)) & others playing locally, to play in some uinderclassmen tournaments. Are they taking their juniors with them? Have the juniors qualified already or ever taken the test? Do the parents of the juniors know about the test date? What do the high school coaches say? It seems the "carrot" of prep school is always being waved out there as a safety net fo r many kids. Does this mean their outside coaches place less importance on finishing the school year strong? I'm afraid so, as has been mentioned to me by high school coaches and some players. Next time that happens, think about this.

Not all of these kids are making it to the NBA. Eventually they have to enter the world of work and find a career and make a $alary. For every year they put off completing school. They put off by one year working for a living. Therefore they lose one year's salary! Lawyer, teacher, technician, doctor! Whatever the career, they lose one year's salary!

Think about that the next time your schedule your team to be out of town at this time of year!

5/3/02 Newsday: Storm Gets Top Prep -- former Cardozo all-city point guard Daryll "Showtime" Hill.

5/3/02 All Star Report: Sabes Foundation Invitational Preview - Riverside Church @ University of Minnesota.

5/2/02 SONDAY Express plays Queens RimRockers in Friday's second game at IS8. Saturday is a SAT day, no games. Four final regular season game on Sunday and the playoffs begin next Monday. I'll post the schedule and matchups when Pete Edwards finally answers my email. Meanwhile PRO STYLE has playoff gmes this Saturday and Sunday on the PRO STYLE 2K 2, Winter League Basketball page.

5/2/02 Thanks to coaches Louis Xifaras and Tim Cluess and to Eric Jaklitsch the class of 2003 page has been updated for Wes Matthews, Otoja Abit, Tim Wall, LeJohn McFadden and Kirk Bunn (not Kirt Bunn, or Kurt Bunn).

5/2/02 Added New York City Jaguars profile (each team is listed alphabetically) on the team page. Please send other info via email to nycnjhoops@aol.com.

5/2/02 Louis Xifaras: The Queens RimRockers 14 and under team, coming off an impressive 3-0 run at the Chase the Game AAU Tournament at Fordham University this past weekend, will compete in the City-Slam AAU Tournament held at Basketball City in Manhattan this weekend, May 4-5. This will be a good test for my squad to see just how competitive we will be during the summer months. For more information, go to www.QueensRimRockers.com.'

5/2/02 Basketball America -- Daily Roots: 'In spite of controversy swirling around New York City's storied Riverside Church AAU program -- former player Robert Holmes has accused longtime director Ernie Lorch of molesting him 20 years ago -- the Hawks still are planning to be in Minneapolis this weekend for the Howard Pulley Invitational. Lorch, 69, resigned from his position on Monday, the New York Daily News reported. "He voluntarily stepped down," Riverside coach Kenny Pretlow told BA Wednesday afternoon. "As soon as he's exonerated, he'll resume his duties. It's a shakedown. That's all it is. Hopefully we can just get this thing out of the way." Holmes, a 34-year-old career criminal, is currently serving a 97-month prison term for gun possession. "It's crazy," Pretlow added. "What's happening is this guy is trying to get out of jail. He can get a reduced sentence if he can get some sort of collaboration. I don't think it's ever going to happen." Nike spokesman Eric Oberman told the Daily News that the company will continue its sponsorship of the Riverside program. And the Hawks still will travel the summer circuit. The 17-and-under squad -- led by prep-bound Brooklyn guards Gary Ervin and Quincy Douby -- should challenge for the title in Minneapolis.'

5/1/02 Paul Brown; Managing Director, NYC Gauchos: 'The NYC Gauchos 16 & under (2001 AAU National Championship) team and our 17 & under team will be travelling this weekend May 3rd, 4th and 5th to compete in the 9th Annual Spiece Run N' Slam All-Star Classic in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Over 124 AAU teams from all over the country will be competing in this years' event. We will use this tournament as a tuneup for the upcoming AAU regionals and national tournaments. As big as basketball is in NYC, sometimes we need to take a look at the style and understanding of the game played in the Midwest. Teams like the Indiana Ice, Chicago Dynasty, Bloomington Red and the Kentucky Hoop Stars will all be there. It'll be very interesting or painful to see how our guys adjust.'

5/1/02 Coach Carlton Screen, F.Y.A. will be taking registrations for their Basketball Development Summer Camps, for further information feel free to call 718 434 0127 or beep Coach Screen 917 313 1715 and Teams looking to play in a Summer basketball Tournament on weekends.

5/1/02 Dwayne "Coach D" Murray, Mt. Vernon Basketball: 'Mount Vernon Knights Basketball Program under Coach Bob Cimmino has been hailed over the last couple years, whether via the press or word of mouth, as one of the best public school basketball programs in the country, top to bottom. Without question, Ernie Lorch and the Riverside Hawks is a huge part of the our success. We probably send more players to Riverside than any other school north of the Bronx boarder. And the recognition from college coaches towards our program and players derives tremendously from our association with "The Church". So the impact of the current situation could potentially have a profound effect on us. I have no doubt that with Kenny Pretlow and Hakim at the helm, "The Church" will remain in good hands. But what must be understood is that these are just "allegations" at this point. The hope must be that any resolve regarding this situation will be based on the facts, and nothing less. Our justice system is based on the ideal that we are innocent until proven guilty although, seemingly, that is often forgotten.

... Many of us have built basketball programs from scratch with the intent of helping the younger adults in our respective communities. Some of our programs have grown to become nationally recognized. But the truth is an allegation like this one can bring it all down in a heartbeat, whether its true or false. How we interact, communicate, and yes even coach our kids must be reviewed to insure that we will not be susceptible to what is happening to the Hawks right now. Not only for the program, but for the confidence of the parents of our kids in our respective programs.'

5/1/02 LOVE2REF4EVER: 'I began my officiating career almost eleven years ago, and grew up in Harlem watching The Riverside Hawks program stand out as one of the best community based basketball programs for over forty years. Mr. Ernie Lorch has not only been a household name in Harlem, but a household name throughout the entire basketball world. As an official I am taught to have no allegiance to any teams or programs, so I have never really had the chance to know Mr. Lorch the person. What I would like to share with everyone is, every time I have officiated a Riverside Game either in New York or outside of the city this man has always let me know that he was happy to see me doing well as an official. In my business as an official the coach is usually the last person to have a kind word for you. So, I am one of the person who hope's these allegations are false. Not just for Mr. Lorch, but for the kids!'

5/1/02 Steve Oates: 'Mr. Lorch has had a profoundly positive influence in the lives of thousands of kids. He started the Riverside program in 1961. He has constructed the most successful youth basketball program in America and has done so in a very humble fashion, not seeking notoriety as opposed to many others in similar positions. He has seen 67 of his players go to the NBA. 29 Division 1 college coaches played at Riverside. Mr. Lorch has also seen thousands of his kids go on to graduate college and build successful lives. I think everyone will benefit from reserving judgement until the facts are presented and Mr. Lorch's name is cleared.'

5/1/02 Class 2003 coverage upped from 66 to 98 grouped by twenties. My thanks to John P Miciotta (JPM) and others on this site who have contributed to player evaluations. The rankings were compiled by referencing Blue Ribbon, Gameball, NJ Hoops, Real Scout and Apple's Ballaz' lists. The more than 100 people (half of them, coaches) on this site's mailing list had a chance to contribute, though some won't rank players on principle. Ultimately, the rankings are mine, the site's programmer and basketball fan. I am not a scout and I am not a talent evaluator. These are youngsters and many are still growing. The rankings should be taken very, very lightly. This listing is primarily a reason to profile the region's prominent juniors in one place on this site. I apologize to all those who should be on this list, but are not, due to my ignorance. For comments and suggestions please email nycnjhoops@aol.com.

5/1/02 Coach Jake Edwards fundamental basketball clinic will be starting soon for youngsters and teenagers. For info call 718-629-1044.

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