September, 2003

9/30/03 Coach Gary Charles: 'The Panthers won the Open Division of the prestigious Charlie Weber Invitational held at the University of Maryland this past weekend. The Panthers defeated the Atlanta All-Stars 69-57 in the championship game. The Panthers were led by MVP Kaheem Seawright 32pts and 12 rebs and Junior Mitchell 20 pts (four 3 pointers) and 4 assist. The Panthers won a couple of buzzer beaters to get to the championship game. Playing against Cecil Kirk ( Baltimore Team) in the quarterfinal game , KS 2 ( Kaheem Seawright) held 6-8 All- American Rudy Gay ( #1 player out of Nike Camp) to 9 points and All tournament player Antonio Pena scored 13 pts and Tyson Johnson ( St. Mary) scored 11pts to help the Panthers squeak out a 49-48 victory. In the semifinal, down by 4 points with 25 seconds to go against the Shooters, Victor Morris nailed a 3 pointer to cut it down to one. After the timeout, one of the Shooters' players was fouled immediately with 5 seconds to go. After both foul shots were missed, All -Tournament player Danny Green ( 16pts, 8 rebs) threw a baseball pass to a streaking Junior Mitchell (Xaverian) who made the layup as time ran out for another exciting 1 point victory 59-58.   Congratulations also goes out to Marcus Cox for another good weekend on defense, Malcolm Grant who is rapidly maturing into a very good point gaurd, Dwight Burke for doing yeomans work on the boards, and asst coaches Billy Turnage and Sterling Nunnally.'

9/30/03 Coach Carlton Screen (FYA): We are hosting our Screen Team Fall Invitational Basketball Tournament 2003 at Erasmus Hall High School. Games will be played on weekdays Monday through Friday 6, 7and 8pm . Starting date Wednesday 10/8 - divisions 16U & 13U any teams interested call 718 434 0127 or 718 666 6534.'

9/30/03 Mark Williams: 'Street and Smith ranked St. Anthonys #7, St. Rays #9.'

9/30/03  Coach J. Salamanca: 'The Boys Club of NY would like to announce tryouts for their 12-under, 14-under, and 16 under teams. We have a brand new facility (Abbe Clubhouse) located in Flushing, Queens just off of 41st Avenue between Main Street and College Point Boulevard. Tryouts are on October 15th. Please go a few days earlier if you need physicals, physicals can be done at the clubhouse as well. 12-under tryouts are at 6pm, followed by 14-under at 7pm and 16-under at 8pm. For more info please call (718) 886-7386 ask for Earl Elliote.'

9/30/03  John P Miciotta: 'According to sources at IS8 yesterday Weyinmi Efejuko the 6'5" swing man from Rice High School has not committed to Marquette as earlier reported. The athletic Efejuko has seen his stock rise significantly this summer and may sign early but may need more time than the early signing period allows to sort out the increased interest from a wide variety of schools that his improved play has generated.

His Raider teammate Russell Robinson has ended his recruitment according to published reports and will give a verbal commitment to Coach Bill Self and the University of Kansas tomorrow. He will add quickness, toughness and shooting ability to the Jayhawks and his commitment represents a terrific get for Self and former Springfield Gardens High star, and former Archbishop Molloy freshman coach Norman Roberts, who is the Jayhawks' top assistant. Russell is a kid who would've made any team he joined better not only with his physical ability but with his winning attitude.

AJ Price has also reportedly ended his recruitment and will announce for UConn tomorrow. The Amityville High star has blossomed into a heady point guard who also has terrific scoring ability. His game should continue to grow in the Big East Conference. It has been a joy to cover both these kids on this site and to watch them grow as players. We wish them the best of luck and continued success both on and off the court.'

9/30/03 PrepStars: Pledges - Jayhawks get Robinson.

9/30/03 CtNow: Price Wants To Join UConn's New Guard

9/30/03 Coach Bill McNally: The top private school players in New York City and Long Island will be participating in the Independent Schools Showcase: Tuesday, September 30 at 7:00 at Horace Mann School in the Bronx (across the street from Manhattan College) For information on the event call (718) 836-9800 X 349.

9/30/03 Coach Bernstein: '2003 Fourth Annual Coaches vs. Cancer Nassau vs. Suffolk rosters for Wednesday, October 1, Hofstra Arena - 7:30 p.m.  $5.00 Donation.

Suffolk:  5 P.J. Smith 5'8 Sr. Amityville,  10 Nick Carter 6'1 Sr. Walt Whitman,  12 Bryant Lassiter 5'7 Jr. Bay Shore,  15 Nick Filloramo 6'4 Sr. Connetquot,  20 Dennis Munch 6'3 Sr. West Babylon,  21 Nick Ciresi 6'5 Jr. Kings Park,  22 Joshua Lowe 6'5 Jr. Hauppauge,  23 Kevin Steward 5'8 Jr. North Babylon,  24 Ryan Hodgson 6'3 Sr. William Floyd,  30 Craig Stewart 6'5 Sr. Amityville,  32 James St. Robert 6'9 Sr. Copiague,  33 John Garcia 6'9 Jr. Brentwood.  Alternates:  Greg Washington 6'9 Jr. Central Islip,  Mark Johnson 6'5 Jr. Amityville,  Coaches: (retired) Marty Riger (Brentwood),  Joe Mayer (Harborfields),  Jim Gilbert (Rocky Point).

Nassau: 5 Matt Simoneschi 5'9 Sr. South Side,  10 Michael Kelley 5'11 Jr. Malverne,  12 Aaron Clarke 6'0 Sr. Elmont,  15 David Tener 6'0 Sr. Kennedy Bellmore,  20 Johnathan Fountain 6'0 Jr. Manhasset,  21 Alex Anderson 6'3 Sr. South Side,  22 Ambrose Benain 6'3 Sr. Elmont,  23 Peter Lawal 6'4 Sr. Uniondale,  24 Kevin Vosilla 6'6 Jr. Massapequa,  30 Terrance Moore 6'7 Sr. Uniondale,  32 Kaheem Seawright 6'7 Jr. Uniondale,  33 Darrell Wonge 6'6 Sr. Malverne.  Alternates: Daniel Birney 6'6 Sr. Massapequa,  Sam Ytuarte 6'1 Sr. Oceanside.  Coaches:(active) Tom Diana (Uniondale),  Darrol Lopez (Malverne),  Jerry D'Angelo (South Side).'

9/30/03 Coach Frank Iurilli: 'Just wanted to let you know Scanlan will be playing in the Iona Prep tournament on Dec 12-13. We will also be participating in the Northeast Catholic Basketball Classic on Dec 26-28th.

Also Michael Epperson 6'3 who played for Scanlan high school on the city championship team in 2002 will be playing for the College of St. Rose this season. Michael was a 1000 point scorer and led Scanlan to the State finals.'

9/29/03 John P Miciotta: Sunday games on the IS8 Tip-Off Classic 2003 page.

9/29/03 Anthony Nicodemo: Week 4 Sunday results are on the Westchester's Best Fall League page.'

9/29/03 Travis Berry: 'Riverbank State Park will host the Eleventh Annual High School Basketball Invitational Classic featuring eight nationally ranked boys' high school varsity basketball teams from the Tri-State area. This year teams are Manhattan Center (Darren Townes ), Boys & Girls, Christopher Columbus (6-8 Jessie Iynlekhue, 6-3 Keniel Kabookie Henry and 6-0 Elvis Lora,) Erasmus Hall, Bishop Loughlin (Kiwan Smith 6'7"& Todd Sowell 6'7"), Harry S. Truman (George Lopez, 6-4 forward ), All Hallows and Rice High School (Russell Robinson and Arturo Dubois 6'6). Starting on December 20 & 21, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. For further information please contact Randy or Travis at (212) 694-3637.

9/28/03  Nick Flagg (pictured right) got the open look at the basket today but JYO played without their star center, junior Theo Davis (he had a painful back, which dates back to ABCD camp) and Rock Steady was just that as they pulled away in the second half for a 77 - 67 win.  Basil Leslie (21). Dwight Gooding (11) and Peedy Nelson (10) led the scoring but the big difference was 6-9 center Vernon Godridge, who controlled the play in the paint.   Southside took Chaminade in the first game 68 - 63 and SONDAY Express led wire to wire against the Rockland Rockerts downing them 91 - 67.   We'll have other scores and game summaries later.

9/27/03 nycwatcher2003@yahoo.com: 'Committment that you didn't know about -- Weyinmi Efejuko 6'5 combo guard of Rice has made a verbal committment to Marquette.'

9/27/03 NJ Hoops: Bobby Hurley going back to the NBA as a Philadelphia advance scout.

9/27/03  Tom Jennings, President Westchester Hawks AAU Boys and Girls Basketball Club: 'To all AAU, Travel, CYO, Club, Rec, or Town Coaches or Assistants. 2nd Annual Westchester Hawks Coaches Clinic 2003. Westchester County Center - 198 Central Avenue White Plains. Wednesday October 1st 6pm - 10pm.  Coaches who will be speaking are as follows: Tim Welsh, Head Coach Providence College 6pm, Gary Waters, Head Coach Rutgers University 7pm, Jerry Wainwright, Head Coach University of Richmond 8pm, Tony Fiorentino, former NBA Assistant Coach Miami Heat/ former WNBA Assistant Coach Miami Sol 9pm.  Entry Fee at the Door is $50.00.  For more info contact Lou Demello at ( 845 ) 278-2040.'

9/27/03  Coach Jayson Kiang: 'Marvin Cheese, a 6'2" guard from St. John the Baptist HS in Long Island, will be playing this season at the University of Albany. Cheese averaged 16.0 ppg during his senior year at SJB, where he was a 1,000-point career scorer and 2002 NS-CHSAA All-Long Island selection along with fellow D1 players Donald Brown (St. John the Baptist/Bucknell), Tim Doyle (St. Dominic's/Northwestern), and Mamadou Diakhate (St. Mary's/Eastern Kentucky). Cheese spent this past season playing at New Mexico Military Institute.'

9/26/03 Louisville Courrier Journal: Sebastian Telfair - High-profile recruits will visit University of Louisville.

9/26/03 Brooklyn Scout: 'Mauricio Branwell, a 6-9 forward from Brooklyn (NY) who played last season at Barton (KS) CC, has enrolled in Salem International.  Branwell averaged 4.9 points and 4.0 rebounds as a sophomore for the 28-4  Cougars, connecting on 51% of his field-goal attempts and 72% of his free throws. He spent his freshman year at Seton Hall where he averaged 2.2 points and 2.4 rebounds in 12 minutes over 28 games. He had his season-high of 12 points in a 67-54 victory over Rutgers.

The well-traveled Branwell started high school at Brooklyn (NY) Bishop Loughlin HS before moving on to Burtonsville (MD) Paint Branch HS, Washington (DC) Dunbar HS and Fitchburg (MA) Notre Dame Prep. He originally signed with UMass in the fall of 2000 but was released from his letter-of-intent after a coaching change. Branwell entered the national spotlight during his junior year at Dunbar, when he averaged 18 points and 13 rebounds.'

9/26/03 Coach Kevin Pigott: 'There will be a great clinic next week run by the Basketball Coaches Association of New York (BCANY). It will be on October 3 at the Crowne Plaza in Albany and October 4 at LaSalle High School in Troy. The Crowne Plaza is about twenty monutes from LaSalle High School. Featured speakers will be Jim Boeheim, Jim Calhoun, Dennis Wolff, and Jim Crews. For more information, log on to www.BCANY.org.'

9/26/03 Anthony Nicodemo: Week 4 Sunday schedule and current standings are on the Westchester's Best Fall League page.'

9/26/03 Rick Barrett: 'The 2003 Gym Rat Midnight Madness, which will be held tomorrow from 4:00 PM until Midnight at Eastern H. S. in Voorhees, NJ. There are six games starting at 5pm with a eighth grade game. After that game the games get better, talent wise with each game. All players attending must spend four hours in a class conducted by the Princeton Review, The kids take a mock SAT Test, then are taught the proper way to score better on the test. This is a big reason this game attracts the top players from all over.'  

Hoop Scoop: 'Some of the top players expected to participate in the Top Senior and Junior games, which will be the last two games of the evening, at the Gym Rat Midnight Madness, are 6'11 Dwight Howard from Atlanta (Southwest Atlanta Christian) GA, 6'9 Josh Morris from Mouth of Wilson (Oak Hill) VA, 7'0 Randolph Morris from Fairburn (Landmark Christian) GA, 6'5 Justin Cerasoli from Aurora (West Aurora) IL, 6'4 Arron Afflalo from Los Angeles (Price) CA, 6'9 Spencer Tollackson from Chaska (H.S.) MN, 6'1 Cliff Clinkscale from Ocala (Shores Christian) FL, 6'6 Jr Brandon Rush from Durham (Mt. Zion Christian) NC, 6'9 Jr Theo Davis from Bayside (Cardozo) NY, 6'6 Jr Jamal Boykin from Los Angeles (Fairfax) CA, 6'3 Jr Eric Devendorf from Bay City (H.S.) MI, 6'9 Jr Jordan Wilkes from Los Angeles (Loyola) CA, 6'2 Jr Ramar Smith from Detroit (Martin Luther King) MI, and 6'9 Jr Jordan Wilkes from Los Angeles (Loyola) CA.'

9/26/03  SoCalHoops Recruiting News: NCAA: Say Goodbye To April.... More Recruiting Changes On The Way.

9/25/03 Rich Kosik and more on the he PSAL's James P. Sullivan Basketball Games page.

9/25/03 Newsday: Sullivan Games Grow Up.

9/24/03  George Lopez, Truman's 6-4 forward got a clean lane to the basket tonight at the Bronx, Manhattan session of the Sullivan Basketball Exposure Games at Riverbank State Park. He was one of 120 PSAL players from those two boroughs showcasing their skills for Division II, Division III and JUCO coaches.  George plays his AAU ball with the Willie Howie All Stars and recorded 4 points and 7 rebounds a game last season as a junior.   More on the  James P. Sullivan Basketball Games page.

9/24/03 Antonio Cannon Sr: 'Playoff and Championship results on the Lefrak City Summer Basketball Classic page.'

9/24/03 Pictures and more on the CHSAA Preseason Camp page.

9/24/03 Daily News: Brian Laing picks Hall.  Coach Orr sways St. Ray’s swingman.

9/24/03 PrepStars: Orange Get it Wright.

9/23/03 Rickey Torres is still in St Rays. I got that from coach Oliver Antigua at the CHSAA pre-season senior games. More on the games later.

9/23/03 Louis Xifaras: 'CHSAA pre-season senior games -- Tuesday at Fordham Prep and Thursday at Holy Cross -- game times 5, 6, 7 & 8 PM.'

9/23/03 Coach Gary Charles: 'The Long Island Panthers beat the NJ All-Stars 93-75 in the 11th grade championship game at the Hoop Group Jam Fest tournament in Morristown, NJ this past weekend. The Panthers started the game with a 23-4 run with Marcus Cox hitting consecutive 3's and never looked back. The Panthers were led by Antonio Pena's 16pt and 8 rebs. Junior Mitchell poured in 15pts (raining in 3's), Victor Morris had 12 spectacular points, Reed Wittman scored 10pts and 5 rebs, Marcus Cox had 8 pts and 5 asst. Malcolm Grant had 10 pts and a couple of look away passes to finish with 6 assist., 6-7 Kaheem Seawright scored 9 pts and 13 rebs, and freshman sensation Darius Gabriel had 7 points and 4 asst.'

9/23/03 Keith Mason: 'News and rumors from around the city, including news about commitments from a couple of St. Raymond kids.'

9/23/03 Nick Blatchford, Director: 'The Children's Aid Society's (CAS) New Heights Program for Student-Athletes is proud to sponsor its third year of Saturday Skills Basketball. Sponsored by the Jr NBA/WNBA, more than 800 boys and girls, ages 6-14, participate in our youth basketball clinics and leagues. Register now by calling (212) 923.1630 and speak to Matt Lewis, or visit our New Heights site for more information. Registration is $25 for the entire season, which runs every Saturday (except holidays) - October-March. The program runs at 5 sites in Northern Manhattan - PS 5, PS 8, PS 152, IS 90 and IS 218.'

9/23/03 Newsday: Skyler Khaleel Recaptures Form.

9/23/03 There are seven pictures on the PSAL's James P. Sullivan Basketball Games page, so it may load slowly.

9/23/03 NYCHoops: Part 2 of Keith Mason's summer in review, Sebastian Telfair's summer and the Gaucho dominance of the AAU season.

9/23/03 Coach Rudy King: 'Less the talented Lance Stephenson the 12/U Brooklyn Bridge squad put together a tremendous team effort to win another championship this weekend @Lefrak City Classic verses Next Level in a thriller (36-33). That makes (14) championships for the Brooklyn Bridge Program in 2003. Led by Isaiah Wilkerson (one of NYC's most underrated impact players), Vincent Council, James Herring and the board domination by Donnell Boyd was just enough to hold off a determined Next Level. If I'm not mistaken, this is also the first time two Brooklyn programs made to the "chip" in Lefrak City aka Kenny Anderson Classic. Brooklyn Basketball continues to dominate, and as Khalid Green would say, "BK... Stand Up!"

Congrats to coach John Antley and Mike Chapman for doing a great job this summer. The great thing is these young guys are not "souped up" and continue to bring it as a team. As a coach in the program I am so proud of these young guys because its tough with all of the distractions to win like they have and stay focused! They made a lot of trips to center court this summer and their trophy cases got a bit heavier... This is one of those summers that are tough to duplicate and one you'll remember forever. Once again congrats!

The team: Lance Stephenson, Isaiah Wilkerson, Vincent Council, James Herring, Donnell Boyd, Imani Callwood, Tamari Earls, Jonathan McDuffie, Tyler Sinclair, Alik Robinson and Jerrell Antley.'

9/23/03 Tec Murray: 'Positive Direction Super League beginning November 1st. $300.00 plus referee fees includes 10 games plus playoffs, League shirts, 1st Place - Jackets, 2nd Place Trophies, 3rd Place - Bags, MVP and sportsmanship trophies as well. Entries must be received by October 15th - More info 718-949-4694.'

9/23/03 Kenny Coard, Boy's Asst. Basketball Coach Berkshire School: 'I just wanted to let you know what some of our area players are doing. We have a nice group of players up here at Berkshire School with a great deal of New York flavor. Komandre Owes a 6'2" 190lb senior combo guard formerly of Cardinal Hayes, Jamel Ferguson a 6'4" 185lb smooth junior combo guard formerly of  St.Johns Prep, "Paulie" Nickerson a 5'9" 180lb very strong point guard formerly of St. Raymonds, Jason McPherson a 6'2" 165lb athletic guard formerly of Dewitt Clinton High School and Robert Jacobs a 6'7" 220lb very strong power forward formerly of Eastside High School all join a much improved 6'8" 215lb Jarrett Mathis formerly of John F. Kennedy High School. All are working very hard and we look for great things from them this year. We expect all of them to play at the Hoop Group Top 100 at Seton Hall on Oct. 11th & 12th.'

9/22/03 tbone, Watchung Conference website: 'The MSU Skyliners 15u basketball team won the Fall Jam Fest last evening at Rutgers Newark by beating the Central Jersey Hawks in triple overtime!. The Tournament is put together by the Hoop Group every year and it always brings out the best players and AAU teams from the NYC/NJ/PA area. St.Joseph Fr. Anthony Nelson (ranked in the top 10 in NJ) led the way in the championship game by scoring 22pts and grabbing 6 boards. Plainfield Fr. Raphiq Carnegie added 24pts (6 3pt baskets).'

9/22/03 Coach Crawford: 'We are looking for non-league and scrimmage games for Rice High School's JV and Freshman levels please contact Coach Crawford wcrawford@ricehighschool.com for j.v and Coach Reid for Freshmen Creid@ricehighschool.com.  Rice High School phone is 212-369-4100,'

9/22/03 Beginning tonight the eleventh annual James P. Sullivan Basketball Games has PSAL student athletes from all five boroughs competing in the three day festival at Riverbank State Park, with game times beginning at 5 pm each night -- Brooklyn, Queens & Staten Island boys tonight, girls tomorrow and Bronx, Manhattan boys Wednesday.  

9/22/03 Eric Jaklitsch: 'The New York Elite won the 2003 Hoop Group Fall Jam Fest in Morristown, NJ. We beat Real Sclout 75-64 behind 7'2" Kevin Mormin's triple double of 19 points, 12 blocks and 15 rebounds. Other top scorers included James Tchana with 16 pts and Andre Blatche with 13. Jack Leasure had 8 points and took three offensive charges. The the next game we beat St Pat's 50-48 behind balanced team scoring from Andre Blatche 13 pts, Kevin Mormin 11 pts, Jim O'Sullivan 9 pts and Bougari Konate 8 pts. The next game we beat DC Hawks by the score of 79-74. Andre Blatche had a game high of 22 pts and he was also helped out by Jack Leasure who had 17 points with 4 three pointers, James Tchana with 8 points, Bougari Konate with 10 points, and Shakim Lafayette with 9 points. In the championship game we beat Philly 3 on 3 by the score of 51-40. Again we had balanced team scoring of Andre Blatche 13 pts, James Tchana 7 pts, Kevin Mormin 6 pts, Jim O'Sullivan with 5 pts, Bougari Konate 4 pts, Jack Leasure 8 points, Benoit Benok 3 pts, and Tyvon Williams 5 pts. Kevin Mormin just transfered into Our Savior New American via Martinique and will be a junior. Bougari Konate transfered into Our Savior New American via Paris France and will be a senior at Our Savior. 6'6" Benoit Benok just arrived in from Cameroon and will be a junior at Our Savior. Also 5'11 Shakim Lafayette transfered into Our Savior from Brentwood HS and will be a sophmore. Lafayette will team up with sophmore Tim Ambrose who just transfered into Our Savior to give them a young and dynamic backcourt to get the ball to the phenomenal front line of Our Savior. Next tournament up for the New York Elite is the Charlie Weber Maryland tournament.'

9/22/03 NJ Hoops: New York Elite squad wins Jam Fest.

9/22/03 Anthony Nicodemo: Week 3 Westchester's Best Results on the Westchester's Best Fall League page.'

9/21/03 It's Playaz weekend at IS8 as each of their teams - the Gold (wearing red?) and the Red (wearing black?) - played four times this weekend. The Gold team is the older group led by Dave McClure (nearest) and JR Smith (middle) while Juwan Carter (far right) is the point guard for a talented younger group.  They were ambushed by St Marys Gaels in the last  Saturday game 81 - 51 but won 80 - 69 vs LPAC yesterday and 81 - 73 against Riverside Church this morning. The Gold Playaz have won three games this weekend: 78 -70 over NYC Finest,   98 - 65 over FYA and a 76 - 73 defeat vs. Connect Select. More summaries are on the IS8 Tip-Off Classic 2003 page.

9/21/03 Coach Bill McNally: On Saturday, October 18th Poly Prep will host a team festival for 7th and 8th grade A.A.U. teams on our Bay Ridge, Brooklyn campus. The cost will be $50. per team and each team will play two games. For futher information call (718) 836-9800 X 349 or email bmcnally@polyprep.org.

9/21/03 It's Championship Sunday at Lefrak with five games starting at the top of the hour from 3:00 through 7:00 PM for 10 under Positive Direction vs. RimRockers, 12 under Next Level vs. Brooklyn Bridge, 14 under TK All Stars vs. Showtime, 16 under Southside vs Starret City and 18 under NYC Finest vs JYO.

9/21/03 Brooklyn Scout: 'The Bedford YMCA clinched a playoff spot in the IS 8 Tipoff Classic with a 72-46 victory over Exodus Saturday morning. Bedford jumped to a 24-8  advantage after the opening period, extended it to 43-22 at the half and maintained a big margin the rest of the way. Anthony Lessane led all scorers with 18 points for Bedford, getting scoring help from Akeem Comas (12 points) and Terrance Portis (11). Javon Parris topped Exodus with 16 points and Derrick Smith added 13.'

9/21/03 It's Playaz Sunday at IS8 as each of their teams - the Gold and the Red - play twice today. Schedule, rosters and earlier game summaries are on the IS8 Tip-Off Classic 2003 page.

9/21/03 Coach Phil Deusenberry: 'Referring to the lesser known players in New York City, I also agree that Weyinme Efejuku deserves more respect and could suprise plenty of people this year, he has all the tools to be a big time player in NY. Two other guys you can throw in there are Nick Flagg and Skyler Khaleel. These two are both going to have very big years for their school (Cardozo).'

9/21/03 Louis Xifaras: 'Friday, September 26, 2003 at Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School there will be a free Boys and Girls CYO Basketball Clinic. All CYO Boys and Girls coaches are welcome to attend. There will be door prizes and exhibits, free coaches notes, and social. The evening begins at 7pm with Bobby Gonzalez from Manhattan College, followed at 8pm by Bob Mackey of Christ the King and concluded at 9pm by Dereck Whittenburg from Fordham University. Please come out and support the event. Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School is located at 71-06 31 Avenue in East Elmhurst, NY.'

9/20/03 Nick Blatchford, CAS Director: 'On behalf of the New Heights Program for Student-Athletes and the Warriors Basketball Club, we want to congratulate Randall Hanke on his commitment to attend Providence College. Randall had an outstanding summer with our club, earning MVP honors at Eastern and averaging a double-double at Three Stripes, Big Time and Best of the Summer. Furthermore, Randall is a terrific young man with a strong work ethic and tremendous character. We are excited for Randall and his family - best of luck.'

9/20/03 Coach Javier G. Bevacqua: East New Yorkers AAU. 'I would like to wish good luck and thank my seniors for a great summer season this year and the past three years for some. Here are some of the college updates for my graduating seniors. Bobby Pandy (Columbia Green), Corey Mcfarland (Old Westbury), AnthonyGibbs (Monroe), Osenaga Osagie (Penn State), Alberto Ortiz (undeclared), Germaine Robinson (undeclared).'.

9/20/03 Roberto E. Diaz, NYC Finest - 'In I.S. 8 Fall Tip-Off Classic, our 1st loss of the season came to Connect Talent 81-101. In their 2nd game of the week, we took on the Runnin Rebels and after slow start and low scoring game we managed to come up with a 64-60 win:. Our next game will be today at 2 PM vs Players Club Gold.

In the Lefrak City Classic, our 12u took All NYC 31-30 Nigel Wingate & David Williams 8 pts each. They will be playing their semifinal game vs Next Level today at 3PM. Our 14u lost to Dyckman 29-32 Branden Matthews 5pts & Charles Jenkins 4pts in the losing effort. The 16u overcame Brooklyn Bridge 60-39: Nicholas Jones 21 pts, Brandon Lawley 10 pts. They will be facing Southside in the semifinals today at 8PM. The 18u already advanced to the championship to be played on Sunday 9/21 at 7pm vs J.Y.O. after defeating Lefrak 60-55: Derek Williams & Nicholas Jones had 14 pts each.

In Almighty Force, our 14u defeated Y.A.D. in the semifinals 44-41: Branden Matthews 23 pts.. They will be playing their championship game vs the Rifles today at 11am at Ajax Park 140 St. & 116 Ave. On the other hand, the 18u defeated 5 towns 75-22: Derek Williams 21 pts, Brandon Lawley 15 pts. On their 2nd game of the week, they took on B & D Productions and let to a 63-60 victory on a slow first half but a strong second half that made a big difference to a 8-0 run with 3 mins left in the 3 qtr to overcome a 10 point deficit and maintained from there on: Derek Williams 21 pts.'

9/20/03 Louis Xifaras: 'Jonathan John, 6'3" sophomore, small forward, has transfered into Monsignor McClancy High School from the St. Thomas Virgin Islands.'

9/19/03 Coach Carlton Screen (FYA): 'We will be starting our 12th Fall season at PS6, Friday September 26 from 3 - 7PM. We will be developing boys and girls ages 4 - 16 years old. All players willing to do the things that will make them better are welcome to join our program. Call me at 718 434 0127 to make an appointment for your application. Sign up now; there are only a few spots open.'

9/19/03 PSAL.org: Eleventh Annual PSAL James P. Sullivan Basketball Exposure Games Teams Selected for next Monday and Wednesday at Riverbank State Park.

9/19/03 Anthony Nicodemo: 'Teaches Hoops Westchester's Best Fall League Week 3 Sunday schedule is on the Westchester's Best Fall League page.'

9/19/03  Coach Carlton Screen (FYA): Sean Watson, Antoine Johnson, Karim Mckenzie stepped their games up against Riverside Church 16U team, and won the game in TheGauchos Roundball Classic Wednesday night. Sean is one of the best 3pt shooters in high school, he is burning the nets off. It is very strange that a great shooter, can't get on the court at his high school, and here he is facing good players every game. I don't like to point fingers, but this is a direct assault on a young person's life. Sean is not the type of player that doesn't listen to his coach, and he is a team player. Antoine played great, taking the ball to the rack and finishing, and when he got fouled sank the free throws at the end of the game. Karim has become a plus for FYA, he is doing all the little things it takes to help win a ball game. I am very proud of all my players, they have worked hard and taken their lumps, by losing first.'  More details on the Gauchos Roundball Classic page.

9/19/03 Antonio Cannon Sr: 'Wednesday playoff results on the Lefrak City Summer Basketball Classic page.'

9/19/03 Brooklyn Scout: 'With the fall registration period completed at most of the nation's junior colleges, this is a list of JUCO player updates not yet reported here. For a complete list of JUCO signings and transfers, check Big Apple Sports http://www.eteamz.com/bigapplesports.'

9/19/03 PSAL.org: Important Boys and Girls Basketball Dates.

9/19/03 Gary Sims: 'Congrats to Providence College in landing 6'10" center Radall Hanke who's prepping this year at Trinity Pawling. I mentioned him in my March 7th Sims' shorts article when he was attending The Hill School in Pennsylvania and in a later article when he decided to prep at Trinity Pawling. He held his own against Blair Academy who featured Loul Deng (Duke) and Charlie Villeneuva (U Conn) at the time. A lefty with a soft outside touch, good offense, and active defensively needs to just add some bulk. He'll do well in the Big East during his career. Good luck Randall.'

9/18/03 NYC Hoops: 'Yatta Gaines to be a Georgia Bulldog.'

9/18/03 Daily News: City's loss is Georgia's Gaines as Molloy guard commits.

9/18/03 NY Post: Lincoln Lands Canarsie Star -- Eugene Lawrence.

9/18/03 PittsburgLive: Panthers land New York recruit -- Keith Benjamin.

9/18/03 Brooklyn Scout: 'Allen Griffin, a former PSAL standout at Brooklyn (NY) Robeson HS, has been named an administrative assistant on the coaching staff at Syracuse University.  Griffin was an All-City performer and Pegasus Award winner in his senior year at Robeson, during which he led the Eagles to the 1997 PSAL City Championship. He went on to play four years at Syracuse, compiling averages of 10.8 points and 6.5 assists (10th best nationally) during his senior season. His career highlight was a 31-point performance in a 93-91 double-overtime win at St. John's in his final regular season game. Following his career at Syracuse, Griffin had brief stints in Europe and with the National Basketball Developmental League (NBDL) and the United States Basketball League (USBL).'

9/18/03 Coach Bernstein: 'The 2003 Annual Coaches Academy will take place for public high school players in Suffolk County this weekend (9/20,21) at William Floyd High School in Mastic, NY...The showcase weekend begins on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. for underclassmen and 8:30 p.m. for seniors...On Sunday, the action begins at noon.'

9/17/03 Coach Bill McNally- 'This year's New York City and Long Island Private Schools Boys Basketball Showcase will be: Tuesday,Sept.30 at 7:00 at Horace Mann School, 231 W246 st. Bronx, N.Y. For info email: bmcnally@polyprep.org or call (718)836-9800 X 349.'

9/17/03 Louis Xifaras: 'Otoja Abit on the lesser known class of 2004 seniors.'

9/17/03 Emilio Rosado: 'The Playmakers have been together now for two years playing in the Lefrak City Classic formerly the Kenny Anderson Classic. Special thanks to Tony, Keith and the staff for all the hard work they put in making the tourney an institution in the Big Apple basketball community. The kids look forward to playing in this event every summer. I know many kids have grown up playing there. Keep up the good work. We had a good summer as a team, started out great 4-0, but family schedules keep some of our kids out and we missed out on the playoffs by 1 game.

I would like to mention some of my student/athletes who showed great teamwork and sportsmanship against some formidable opponents. 6'4" Jelani "Tim Duncan" Winfield an 11th grader at St. John's Prep played very well in the post and showed some good board work. Jamel Ferguson now at Berkshire Academy in Mass. is a great 6'3" combo guard and played a large role on our team. We had great guard play from 6'2" Chris Williams and 5'8" Eric Rosado also from St. John's Prep. Chris played varsity last year and is a great passer and is underrated. Eric helped lead the J.V. To the city "B" Catholic school title where he won 4 games on last minute shots. He is known as Triple E at Lefrak for is ability to hit last second shots. Both played good defense. We got good scoring from 6'0" Lanval Gordon from Stevenson High who was relentless on the boards and 61" guard Jason Hurt from Mount St. Michael's. I like to thank these kids and wish them well in their academics and athletic endeavors.'

9/17/03 PrepStars: 'Mt. Vernon (NY) High WG/PG Keith Benjamin wasted no time after mutually agreeing with Villanova to back out of his commitment with the Wildcats; he pledged to Pittsburgh after taking a visit this past weekend.'  Web note: This is looking likely, but not yet official.

9/17/03 Coach Ted Gustus:'Welcome to the retirement club Coach Ringel. Congratulations on the many successful years that you have coached amateur sports. It was a pleasure for me to compete against you and those great Grady teams. You and your teams were simply the best! As far as Grady producing great basketball players, that is far from being true. When are people going to realize that Jack Ringel for 20 years produced outstanding student-athletes. Grady and their administration did not produce anything. People should not underestimate the dedicated works that Coach Rangel has put into developing the character, grades, and basketball skills of the young men he coached. Many people wouldn't know Grady existed if it wasn't for Coach Ringel and his staff. I am proud to be a friend of Coach Ringel and a colleague. I am now excited for Jack in his new position as a retired basketball coach. As Coach Ray Haskins always said, "Once a coach, always a coach!" Jack, you are always a coach and I look forward in hanging out with you, Coach Vernon, our good buddy Mike Levine at the high school and college games. We will be coaching from the stands! It time for us to move over and learn to enjoy watching Coach Rock Eisenberg (Old School) take on the new Jacks and NYC's coaches of the future, in Dwayne Tiny Morton, Tommy Allen, Wendel Saunders, Khalid Green and other outstanding young coaches. See you at the games or maybe we just hang out on Mike Levine's new boat!'

9/16/03 Vinny Kabus :'I would like to second the notion on Weyinme Efejuku on the lesser known class of 2004 seniors.'

9/16/03 Coach John Mathis, JFK, Bx: 'I'm looking for non-league scrimmages and games for my varsity squad. If interested please call me at (718) 443-8930.'

9/16/03 Some lesser known class of 2004 seniors.

9/16/03  John P Miciotta: 'According to published reports 6'1" combo guard Deshawn Dwight of Bloomfield (NJ) Tech became the second player from Tech to make a verbal commitment to coach Joe Desantis and Quinipiac University. He will join underrated teammate Jason Wilson to form the nucleus of a fine freshman class for the Bobcats next season. Dwight's shooting stroke is one of the best in our region, and while the Bobcats will look to make good use of his ability to shoot off the catch, they'll also learn they have a player who has a good feel for getting his team in an offense, and getting his teammates involved. Congratulations to Deshawn on a job well done earning the scholarship and an excellent choice. Congratulations also, to Joe DeSantis and his staff, who have now tapped one of our region's best programs for two guys who'll be very good players in the NEC.'

9/16/03 Anthony Nicodemo: 'Teaches Hoops Westchester's Best Fall League Week 2 Results on the Westchester's Best Fall League page.'

9/16/03 Anthony Nicodemo: 'Teaches Hoops Fall Hardwood Classic was a huge success. Over 20 teams participated with many division one players on the participating rosters. Here are the results:

12th Grade Division -- Ct Select- 79 Newark Zoo Crew- 68,  MVP- Gerry Claxton (Career HS).  All Tourney: Terrell Elliston (LPAC/All Hallow's), Jamie Procino (NY Pride/Yorktown), Reggie Larry (Zoo Crew/Newark Barringer), Scott Sterling (BC Eagles).

11th Grade Division Teaches Hoops- 55 Newark Zoo Crew- 38, MVP- Brent Paladio (Hamilton HS).  All Tourney Tyrell Thompson (Teaches/JFK), Troy Owens (Lincoln Hall), Jason Green (BC Eagles), Saladine Collins (Zoo Crew/Malcolm X Shabazz).

10th Grade Division BC Eagles- 58 Newark Zoo Crew- 55. MVP- Travis Hassell (Newburgh Free Academy). All Tourney  Wayne Higgs (Zoo Crew/Newark Central), James Bryant (Rockland Rockets/Don Bosco), Nick Patterson (BC Eagles), Nick DiMaggio (Croton/Teaches).'

9/16/03 Coach J Salamanca: 'JYO (Cardozo) seems to be the buzz now at IS 8 and if they all stay eligible there is no reason why anyone else should believe that we are not heading for a great matchup in the garden with 2 time champs Sebastian and company. Theo Davis proved that he is a serious impact player in this city. Davis is not an emotional player but on the contrary very calm.  It seems like he lets his game do the talking. Nick Flagg was also very impressive, he seems to be playing much more confident. This is definitely Dozo's best team since their city championship team in '99. Stay Tuned.'

9/15/03 Antonio Cannon Sr: 'Last weekend's playoff results on the Lefrak City Summer Basketball Classic page.'

9/15/03  Game summaries are now on the on the IS8 Tip-Off Classic 2003 page.

9/15/03  At IS8 yesterday morning JYO with their Cardozo center Theo Davis (pictured nearest) upset the Panthers A and their big man Joakhim Noah (pictured appropriately in the middle) 92 - 80 scoring the game's last nine points on free throws. Earlier FYA with the brothers Menard (Lejunes and older brother, Max to the right) nipped the Running Rebels 62 - 58.

9/15/03  Coach Billy Turnage: 'At IS 8 this weekend Panther (B) went 2-0 beating Exodus on Saturday and Bedford YMCA on Sunday. In Saturday's contest we were lead in scoring by Victor Morris, Junior Mitchell, and Kahiem Seawright with 21, 16, and 12 points respectively. Other key contributions came from Dwayne Johnson who had his usual solid floor game with about 10-12 asst's and a ton of steals, Dwight Burke who had double figure rebounds and blocks, and Marques Cox who provided unlimited energy off of the bench. In Sundays contest we were lead in scoring by Junior Mitchell with 21, Victor Morris with 17, Kahiem Seawright with 14, and Dwight Burke with 12. Kahiem and Dwight also had double figure rebounds and quite a few blocks each. Jake Stevens, Lou Bradley, Marques Cox, John Forbes and Carlos Cadet all chipped in off the bench in Sunday's contest. The final score of Sunday's game was 89-68. Our next game is vs. Sonday Express on Friday Oct 3rd at 8pm.'

9/15/03  Rodrick C. Bussey Brooklyn-Queens Warriors(Scholars Through Sports Foundation) We just completed a successful weekend trip at the Hoop City USA Fall Classic in Dunmore, Pennsylvania. We went 3 and 0 in pool play. The team lost to Hoop City USA's home team in the finals. Michael Dodd (Hillcrest) was the Warriors team MVP for the the tournament. Michael scored an impressive 42 points against a South Jersey Devil team during pool play. Marques Damon (Banneker) and Jamaal Smith (LaSalle Academy) also had stellar performance throughout the tournament.  Joemelle Khan (Hillcrest) has played with the Brooklyn-Queens Warriors throughout the AAU season. Joemelle is the quintessential point guard. He always set up his teammates, but he can score when needed. Joe is also an excellent defensive player. I expect him to have breakout season for Coach Fagan's Hillcrest team.'

9/15/03 Coach George Holub: 'Elmont High School (Long Island - western Nassau County) needs 2 games to complete its non-league Varsity Boys schedule. Any teams interested please call me at 516-773-4520 or e-mail me at JawzH2o@aol.com.'

9/15/03 Coach Rock Eisenberg: 'I wanted to let our "Family" know that on Friday Nov. 21st we are holding the first annual Bob Kronisch Memorial Classic at Tilden High School. There will be three games played on this great night. The first game at 4:30 pm will be Boys and Girls vs St. Edmund Prep the next game will be Tilden Vs F.D.R.At 6:00 pm and the nightcap will be New Utrecht vs South Shore at 7:30 pm. If anyone would like to donate to the Bob Kronisch Scholarship Fund they should send their donations to the Bob Kronisch Fund at F.D.R. High School located at 5800 20th Ave. Brooklyn, New York.'

9/15/03 Hoop Group 2003 Fall Jam Fest Basketball Tournament Information.

9/14/03 Courier Online: Illness can't stop `Great Gause'.

9/14/03 Coach Kevin Pigott: 'The CHSAA will run its Preseason Camp for seniors on Tuesday, September 23 at Fordham Preparatory School in the Bronx and on Thursday, September 25 at Holy Cross High School in Queens. There will be four games each night. The first game starts at 5 PM.'

9/14/03 Daily News: 'Five former high school standouts will be honored as the newest inductees in the New York City Basketball Hall of Fame on Thursday. LeRoy Ellis, John Roche, Alfred (Butch) Lee, Ed Conlin and Richard (Chink) Gaines made their basketball reputations at area high schools before continuing with successful collegiate and pro careers. The 1960 Boys High basketball team, which won the PSAL championship behind Connie Hawkins, will be recognized as well. The dinner will be held at the New York Athletic Club.'

9/14/03 Travis Berry: 'Riverbank State Park will host the Eleventh Annual High School Basketball Invitational Classic featuring eight nationally ranked boys' high school varsity basketball teams from the Tri-State area. All games will be played at Riverbank State Park in New York City. This event previously has been a major success with participation averaging 4000 spectators and 200 players per tournament. It is a highly competitive event for top college-bound Tri-State area players to showcase their talent to the media and college recruiters. Starting on December 20 & 21, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. This is any open invitational for all PSAL, Catholic and Private High Schools. So, if you are interest in the classic please contact Randy or Travis at (212) 694-3637 or via email   Randy.McGhee@oprhp.state.ny.us or Travis.Berry@oprhp.state.ny.us.'

9/14/03 Frank McCree: 'Gary Greenberg, executive director of the Jersey City boys and girls club informed me that 6'3" Liberty Academy Charter School's 8th grader Brandon Chisholm was selected to join the JCG Travel Team. Gary is very high on Brandon's upside.'

9/13/03 Brooklyn Scout: 'Gavin Grant, a 6-7 small forward at St. Raymond's HS in the Bronx (NY), has given a verbal commitment to North Carolina State, hoping to follow the path of former Raven Julius Hodge in the ACC.  Grant averaged 10 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists in just 21 minutes a game last season for the CHSAA City Champions. He was named to the All-Bronx second team by both the New York Daily News and Newsday. Grant, who went on an official visit to NC State last weekend, chose the Wolfpack over Pittsburgh and Richmond.'

9/13/03 Daily News: St. Ray's Gavin Grant tabs N.C. State.

9/13/03 PrepStars: Gavin Grant Picks N.C. State.

9/13/03 Coach Tony Masser, Masi Warriors: 'Our team has just begun. I know you probably never heard of me or my two best players, Joemelle Khan (Hillcrest} and Nick Jones {Hillcrest). These two player are two of the most underrated guards in New York City. They are both playing in IS 8 this fall Joemelle for Jamaica Spirits and Nick for NYC Finest. Look for these two players to have a great tournament.'  

Roberto E. Diaz, NYC Finest: 'Nicholas Jones is a 6'2" 185 lbs guard from Hillcrest HS. He was probably the best player overall in his high school division last year averaging 24ppg and leading Hillcrest HS to last year upset of Cardozo at Hillcrest that secured them a spot in the playoffs.  A great student athlete and one of the best in his class. He has shown to be one of the best in his class petty much everywhere he has played. Many of those being ranked have played against him and know of him. He does also have an 87 academic average so his choices will be a lot greater than most, not to mention a great attitude! He is currently playing in I.S. 8 Fall Classic, Lefrak City Classic & Almighty Force Tournament in the senior divisions in all of them.'

9/13/03 Coach John Sce, New Utrecht: 'I would like to take his opportunity to congratulate Coach Jack Ringel and his able assistant Jake Edwards for the fine job they have done with the Grady basketball program over the past 20 years. It is important to point out that the success of the program is not measured in wins and losses but in the lives of every player you have touched over the years. Young people today desperately need to be pointed in the right direction and in your career as a teacher and coach you have influenced many to what the right path is. I wish Coach Ringel good health and God's speed in his retirement and Coach Edwards the best of luck in his future coaching endeavors. PSAL basketball will not be the same; you will both be sorely missed.'

9/12/03 The Journal News: Benjamin says 'no' to Villanova.

9/12/03 Thanks to Coach Mario Nettleton of Showtime Punishers his team profile is added (alphabetically) to the team page. By next month I'll change the team page from AAU profiles to school profiles.  

9/12/03 Coach Phil Diasparra, Westchester Hawks: 'Brett Loscalzo has been with the Westchester Hawks for the last 3 years and has been a great asset to our team as a player and as a person. He is one of the best young men who I have coached, he is a true student/athlete. Brett is a pure pont guard that can make everyone around him look good and he can score whenever he wants too. He has been offered several athletic scholarships and has made a verbal commitment to play at Columbia University where he will also get a great education. He will be a leader both on and off the court at Columbia.'

9/12/03 Coach Tony Bergeron, Wings Academy: 'The Southeast Bronx Neighborhood Coalition (SEBNC) Blue Devils/Angels basketball tryouts are as follows:   9-10 Boys and Girls Thursday, September 25th, 6:30pm at Forest Center,  7-8 Boys and Girls Friday September 26th 6:30pm at Jacobi Hospital,  11-12 boys Saturday September 27th 12pm Forest Center,  13-14 boys Sunday September 28th 12pm Forest Center, 13-14 girls Wednesday October 1 6:00 pm Forest Center.  Bring sneakers, t-shirt and shorts. Locations:  Jacobi Hospital - 1400 Pelham Pkwy. Bronx Building #4 and Forest Center - 955 Tinton Ave Bronx,NY (corner of 163rd). Questions contact Maxwell "Bingo" Cole at 718-542-2727 ext. 32.'

9/12/03 Coach Rudy King: 'It truly amazes me that a coach like Jake Edwards will not be on the sideline this season @ Grady. He put in unbelievable time, and like most coaches cut short quality family time to pursue his dream helping students move forward in life. I know... I was there and it's hard to understand how a true solider is now out of uniform when he really wants to be there. Jack Ringel & Jake Edwards gave me the unique opportunity to share the Grady basketball experience from an administrative, volunteer coaching perspective. Working with this team I must say drove me to re-evaluate my approach to coaching and step my game up. I also learned how to share success which is essential in becoming successful in anything that you do. Working with these guys was on a level that I had never experienced though I had (17) years in and was successful. It was the passion and commitment from Jack Ringel and Jake Edwards that was special and trust me the PSAL is going to miss this great duo, who brought it every day, every night and succeeded even when everyone thought they would fail. There were times during some of their pre-game talks that had me ready to put on my gear and take the floor. I mean it was powerful. Jack, you need to write a book!  Jack Ringel, though we had a short time together you allowed me to experience basketball for all it's worth and appreciate you inviting me to sit on the bench during games, the road trips, be in the locker room and even talk to the students like I was a fixture of your staff. I'll never forget the after game lunches, dinners etc., to sit and talk the game... the experiences were priceless.

Jake Edwards, life is too short to hold grudges and though we've had differences, it doesn't stop me from expressing the true loss to the basketball community that you will not be on the sidelines this year motivating our young student athletes to stay focused. There aren't many coaches that I would assistant coach for but I learned some tricks of the trade working with you and NYC basketball will not be the same without you. I also want to thank you for introducing me to the national circuit and giving me the opportunity to get involved in amateur basketball for real. To the student athletes at Grady High, I know you must be devastated and can't understand how things like this happen. But now more than ever you must stay focused, determined and continue your successful path and complete what you've started using the tools and mindset that you were taught by the dynamic duo.'

9/12/03 Coach Rock Eisenberg: 'I wanted to add my thoughts on great Grady Coach Jack Ringel and his talented assistant Jake Edwards. When you talk about success on and off the court you have to include Grady High School among the "nations" top programs. Over the past 20 years Jack Ringel has built and established a dynasty in Brooklyn New York.Grady's epic battles with Lincoln over the years have been a joy for all basketball fans to watch and enjoy. Over the years I have shared many great days and nights with Jack, Ron Vernon, Mike Levine, "Hirsch" "Ron Neclario, Ted Gustus, Jake Edwards and countless other coaches on the High School College and AAU level, for sheer basketball knowledge nobody can touch the "Genius" who built Grady High School into a national power. As a former Grady asst. Ritchie De Stafano says "Jack is "Jack". He is simply the "Best".

9/12/03 Antonio Cannon Sr: 'This week's 16u playoff results on the Lefrak City Summer Basketball Classic page.'

9/12/03 Louis Xifaras: 'Pedro Rodriguez, sophomore, has transferred into Monsignor McClancy High School from Bryant High School.'

9/12/03 Alan J. Stone: 'Brett Loscalzo, Westchester Hawks, verbals to Columbia.'

9/12/03 NJ Hoops: Former Rutgers star Daryl Smith is putting his basketball and strength training knowledge to work.

9/12/03 Coach Jack Ringel: 'I am not one for speeches and farewells but I do think it appropriate to reflect over the past 34 years of coaching in the NYC Public Schools at IS320K to Lincoln H.S. to Grady H.S. in 1980. I worked with some great basketball minds - the late Mark Reiner, Bobby Hartstein, Les Pilgrim, June Scarbro, Derek McMahon and Jake Edwards. I thank all of them. I am thankful for the support and lessons learned from 2 former principals, the late Adele Charyn and recently retired Grady principal Anthony Valenti. Kudos go out to my former coaching colleagues who were supportive, knowledgeable, and class individuals - Ron Vernon, Artie Leitner, Rock Eisenberg, Jim Gatto, Ray Haskins, Ron Naclero and Ted Gustus. I must thank friends Mike Levine, Arnie Hirsch and Clarence Hendrickson. I appreciate the many referees that made our games fair and competitive - Nick Gaetani, Ray Lara, Mike Bennett, Mike Hulen and the late Bob Kronisch. The press also has been both fair and informative over the years - Bill Travers, Frank Isola. Michael Dobie, Roger Rubin, Dan Martin, Kristie Eckert and of course Michael Quick. Most of all, I will remember my players. Many are now grown with their own families. They have become a community unto themselves. Each generation of athletes has reached out to the next, making sure that all remember the value of sportmanship and fair play taught at practice. From the Eric Leslie, Antoine Lewis years to Mo Brown, James Hector and Jamal Phillips to Ron Cromer and Derrek Brown to Tyrone Grant to the Norman Richardson, Jacquay Walls and Roberto Gittens years to Karl Sanders and Carlito Beach to Woody Souffrant, Tyquawn Goode, Michael Clarke and Quincy Douby years to the present. All have made me proud and a better person for knowing them. Each in their own way has touched me and I am glad to call them family. I leave with no regrets and hope the Grady tradition continues. God Bless.'

9/11/03 Mike 'Legs' Levine: 'Coach Jake, keep the faith. The P.S.A.L. much like the department of public education is approaching rock bottom. As coach Jake has observed and so soulfully expressed, anything successful and good will be systematically destroyed. The Grady H.S. basketball team has produced a continuum of college students,community role models, untold successs stories and most importantly two decades of disciplined scholar athletes and gentlemen.These proven and documented results far and away exceed the school record in general. It is a shame that every effort is not being made to continue this proud legacy by this new school administration.There is so much more to reveal pertaining to this matter of "conspiracy for failure". Jake, you have the love and the skill and the determination to serve the youth and the game, bless you--" Keep the faith"  I'll bet you that the people on the administration were never chosen in, when they were growing up-- take note --they were carefully chosen to do this job --Jack Ringel -twenty plus years --hundreds of victories and legions of student atlhletes and college graduates and honorable alumni. You did a great job and by those who know and care you will greatly missed!'

9/11/03 Reggie Murray: 'Supremacy, the Ultimate Brooklyn Basketball Tournament, has been rescheduled to Saturday, September 27th and Sunday, September 28th. Supremacy takes place at Brooklyn Hoops, Brooklyn’s premier indoor basketball facility. Brooklyn Hoops is located in the Brooklyn Athletic Club, 4400 Glenwood Road, corner of Troy Avenue. Supremacy brings together 16 of Brooklyn’s best teams and Brooklyn’s best players to compete in a winner-take-all weekend tournament. Supremacy is for bragging rights. The entry fee of $250 is due by the registration deadline of September 15th. The coaches' meeting will be held on Saturday, September 20th @ 6:00pm at Brooklyn Hoops. To register, contact Andre Ambrose at 718-377-4646 or 718-342-8056. For more information, check out the Supremacy website at www.eteamz.com/supremacy or e-mail supremacytournament@hotmail.com. Roster spots are still available. Supremacy is a Brooklyn event only!'

9/11/03 Coach Glen Steinberg: 'The Warriors lost the NYC HIU tournament to a strong Riverside Church team. We were up big the whole game but because of a new rule allowing a point and retaining possession after a foul, we allowed them to come back and we lost. They played a great game as well. Playing were Mike Crisci, Doug Elwell, and Greg Karris. Doug also finished 2nd in the slam dunk contest while being the only minor competing against adults.'

9/11/03 Peter Fuhrman: 'St. Gregory the Great Fall Classic Basketball Tournament Update - I have just been informed that the Diocese of Trenton’s CYO has scheduled a “Coach’s Spirituality” meeting for Saturday October 4th. For all involved CYO teams, I will avoid scheduling your games during the meeting times of 10-2. If possible, I will avoid scheduling your teams on Saturday October 4th. The worst case scenario would be to have your assistant coach handle Saturday’s game.

For more info contact Peter Fuhrman, tournament director, St. Greg’s Fall Classic.  Ph. 609-631-8448, W. 609-689-1033,  Fax 609-689-1034.  Email is Peter.Fuhrman@careermedia.com.'

9/11/03 John P Miciotta: 5th Year Players for 2004.

9/11/03 Booksnball: 'You should add this name to your class of 04 list: Matt Fabrico, 6' Sr. point guard, Baldwin High School, Long Island, N.Y.  3.5 + student 1000+ on SAT's (taking them again!)  Long arms have him play taller, great on the ball defender, handles well, good passer, excellent shooter 15 ft & out. He can shoot the 3!  Plays hard all the time. A gym rat, he has received performance enhancement training from Andrew Amigo (www.hoopspt.com) who trains Sebastian Telfair.

Matt made the All-Star Game at the prestigious Kentucky Blue Chip Camp this summer. In head to head competiton vs. highly recruited players he has done very well, holding them well below their usual scoring levels. MAC schools & Atlantic 10 schools should definitly get to his games this year. Other lower Divison I schools should check this young man out. Also the Ivy League coaches should be camped out on his doorstep given his strong academic credentials. He can play!'

9/11/03 NJO: The state basketball tournament has a new home for some of its biggest games -- the new Ritacco Sports Center in Toms River.

9/11/03 Brooklyn Scout: ''The Bedford YMCA began pool play in the IS 8 Tip-Off Classic Wednesday night with an 89-81 triumph over Amityville. Bedford moved in front 24-19 at the end of the first quarter and maintained the lead the rest of the way. Eugene Lawrence led a balanced scoring attack for Bedford with 22 points, followed by Wayne Turner and Levance Fields with 13 points apiece, while Kenny Hayes and Anthony Lessane each tallied 12. A.J. Price topped Amityville (0-2) with a game-high 26 points with Gary Stewart adding 15 points and P.J. Smith 14 in the losing effort.'  Web note:  Earlier games, schedule and rosters are on the IS8 Tip-Off Classic 2003 page.

9/11/03 Antonio Cannon Sr: 'Playoff schedule on the Lefrak City Summer Basketball Classic page.'

9/11/03 Anthony V Nicodemo: 'Teaches Hoops Fall Hardwood Classic Schedule for this weekend is now available at www.teacheshoops.com.'

9/10/03 Coach Jake Edwards: 'Putting the squeeze on a great basketball program -- In the past 15-20 years Grady basketball was one of the elite programs in NYC under Coach Jack Ringel. They had the reputation of great student athletes being produced. Even during my short tenure at Grady we produced some great student athletes who are playing college basketball right now. Grady was a grooming ground for colleges to come and recruit a student athlete to come into their program play 4 years and graduate. What more could they ask for? It puzzles me to see that the administration at Grady do not want this to continue. They said that they want to go in another direction. First they cut the budget from the basketball program, then they cut the gym time and now they would not except any students into the school that may want the opportunity to pursue an athletic scholarship as well as an education. This really showed me that the administration did not have our back. This made my decision very easy to not coach at Grady anymore. I will miss the kids but the administration was forcing my hand. Now it's official, Coach Ringel and Coach Edwards will no longer be at Grady. I can't believe that the basketball gurus in NYC would allow a program like Grady HS be terminated by a few people in administration. This will be one less avenue for kids to have where they could have an opportunity to follow their dreams. I always thought that the NYC public school system was trying to help students to better themselves not take it away. I would like to thank Coach Jack Ringel for giving me the opportunity to come in to his program and implement my program and allow me to coach and show that I had the knowledge to coach at a high level. As of right now I will take a year off to relax and be with my family. Then I will try to get back into coaching next year. More likely in the Catholic school division but I will look at my options. I will post more on this situation.'

9/10/03 Coach Jayson Kiang: 'St. John the Baptist High School needs 2 home games to complete its non-league schedule. Any teams interested please call me at 646-207-3873 or email me at sjbbasketball@aol.com.'

9/10/03 Updated class of 2004 profiles. The coverage was upped to over100 with the first 60 plus ranked and the rest grouped alphabetically.

9/10/03 Michael McLeggan: 'September date available for IronMan Basketball Tournament, George Cromwell Recreation Center, Staten Island, New York. Call or email for details.  718-602-2906 or 917-418-6919 (cell).  Website is come.to/ironmanBASKETBALL.'

9/9/03 Rob Williams Bistate Pythons: Class of 2008 notables.

9/9/03 Coach Anderson: 'Voluntary coach wanted to help out with the girls JV program at Upper Room Christian School in Dix Hills New York.  If interested please contact Coach Anderson at 631-242-5359 ext332.'

9/9/03 David Schuman: 'Schuman’s Speed Center will work with players from New Jersey Basketball AAU and High Schools this fall. The fall Super Sunday training: will be held at the Saddle Brook Park, every Sunday starting September 28th. There will be 2 options. The first is 1, 2hour session per week for 6 weeks (6 sessions). The cost will be $120.00. The second option is 2, 2 hour sessions per week for 6 weeks (12 Sessions). The cost for this option will be $165.00Let me know asap if you are interested. Times: 1:00pm-3:00pm-Sunday-Youth and High School Athletes. Times: 4:30 pm-6:30pm-Monday- Youth and High School Athletes. Our website with more info is at www.schumanspeed.com. Contact -- Phone: 201-587-0965,  Toll Free: 1-866-Schuman,  Fax: 201-221-7605 and email schumanspeed@aol.com'

9/9/03 Rodrick C. Bussey, Brooklyn-Queens Warriors(Scholars Through Sports Foundation): 'My 16 and 18 under teams just completed our season at the LefrakCity Classic. First and foremost, I would like to thank Antonio Cannon, Keith and Ali for successfully running their tournament. Neither team fared that well in the tournament, but I had several players that stood out during the tournament. Andrew Rousseau and Sika Franco (both are 11th graders at St. John's Prep) played very well for the 16 and under team. Jason Mohabir (Franklin K. Lane) and Caesar McBean (Richmond Hill) also made positive contributions for the 16 and under team. Michael Dodd (Hillcrest) averaged about 18 ppg during the tournament for the Senior team. Michael did an excellent job of competing in every game. The Brooklyn-Queens Warriors will be traveling to Scranton, Pennsylvania this weekend to participate in a tournament at Hoop City USA.'

9/9/03 Coach Wee Francis: 'Wee All-stars are in the Gaucho's Roundball and the Nike Riverside Invitational. This summer we won the Ron Artest tournament for the 13 & under and went to the championship in the Marbury Classic for the 12 & under. Anyone 14 & under or in the 7th & 8th grade who wants to try out, contact me at 1-917- 459 - 1005 or contact me at Abyssinian 1-212-459-1005.'

9/8/03 Brooklyn Scout: 'Kaimondre Owes, a 6-2 guard who graduated last spring from Cardinal Hayes HS, will do a prep year at the Berkshire School in Sheffield, Massachusetts.  Owes averaged 19.4 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.4 assists as a senior at  Hayes, earning All-Bronx second team honors from both the New York Daily  News and New York Newsday. He was also named a second team All-Star at the Spring IS 8 HS Classic after a 30-point effort for Starrett City in an 85-84 double overtime loss to the Riverside Future Stars in the semifinals.

9/8/03 Shawn McCray: 'Championship results are on the Zoo Crew Summer League page.'

9/8/03 Brooklyn Scout: 'Jason Hamilton, a 6-6 forward who starred at Piscataway (NJ) Tech last season, will play this fall at Clarendon JC in Texas. Hamilton helped the Raiders capture the Central Jersey Group I Championship  by scoring 18 points in a 73-48 rout of Manville. He was named All-Gold Division in the Greater Middlesex Conference as Piscataway Tech finished  with a 21-5 mark.'

9/8/03 Saturday results and some rosters on the IS8 Tip-Off Classic 2003 page.

9/8/03 Trentonian: Leaving Trenton High was the right choice for Robert Hines.

9/8/03 Antonio Cannon Sr: ' Weekend results on the Lefrak City Summer Basketball Classic page.'

9/8/03 Anthony Nicodemo: 'Teaches Hoops Westchester's Best Fall League Week 1 Results on the Westchester's Best Fall League page.'

9/8/03 Doc Nicelli: 'Any juniors and seniors interested in getting some more national exposure or interested in competing this fall, the Broncos will be taking 3 more trips . The first trip will be on the 13th, 14th followed by two more weekends in a row .Any one interested please contact me at 718 392 4527 or 646 246 1130.'

9/8/03 Roberto E. Diaz, NYC Finest: 'Our 18u advanced to the Semi finals in the Lefrak City Classic to face the 1st Place home team Lefrak on Friday at 7:30pm. They did also win their first two games in the Almighty Force Tournament 47-27 & 77-57. They finalized their weekend with a win in their opener at the I.S. 8 Fall Tip-Off Classic 65-53 vs F.Y.A.  Our 16u defeated Antioch Church 81-61 and will take on Southside for the 1st round of the playoffs in the Lefrak City Classic on Wednesday 9/10 at 7:00pm.  The 14u took on Back Street on the semi finals and advanced after a 51-28 performance to face Y.A.D. in the championship on Saturday 9/13 at 3:00pm at Ajax Park located at 140 St. and 116 Ave. in Jamaica. The 14u will also be playing their 1st round of the playoffs vs Dyckman in the Lefrak City Classic on Saturday 9/13 at 5:00pm.  The 12u is also in the playoffs in the Lefrak City Classic and will take on TK All-Stars on Saturday 9/13 at 2:00pm.'

9/7/03 Newsday: Telfair Takes Center Stage. He's plenty good (but no LeBron), and Lincoln's star still has plenty to prove.

9/7/03 Coach Tom Sampogna: I was going through your players to watch in the class of 2006. I have a guard from Port Chester HS who needs to be mentioned as one of the best guards in the Hudson Valley region. His name is Melvin "Porky" Calhoun.

9/7/03  In today's first two IS8 games the Panthers B easily took Amityville 93 - 77 and Shooting Stars overtook Real Scout 76 - 70.  Selected rosters and earlier results will be posted later on the IS8 Tip-Off Classic 2003 page.

9/6/03 The IS8 Tip-Off Classic 2003 begins this weekend with six games today and five more on Sunday.  There will be 38 teams playing a five week regular season schedule. Only the Gauchos are missing from the region's top teams which include two each from the Playaz and Panthers. Other top teams are Riverside Church, StarretCity, Mt Vernon, SONDAY Express, NY Ravens and Bedford YMCA. Metro Boston and the Philadelphia Ballers will be commuting! All teams and schedule are on the IS8 Tip-Off Classic 2003 page.

9/6/03 Shawn McCray: 'Last night in Newark at the Boylan St. rec Championship games the Zoo Crew fell in the 12-u division, but captured the Highschool Championship. In the 12-u division the Zoo fell to Next Level of Newark 47-30 as Next Level's size proved to be too much for the Zoo. The Zoo received spirited play from 6th grader Fuquan Knight who led the way for the Zoo with 12 points, 5 steals, and 2 assist. 8th grader Aaron Miller gave all he had in the paint with 10 points, 15 boards, and 4 blocks. Chris Robinson was high scored for Next Level with 19 points and he grabbed MVP honors. The game can be seen on Newark's Cablevision Channel 19 on 9-12-03 at 11pm on Rook's Castle. In the highschool division the Zoo pressed their way to a 64-36 victory over Vailsburg All-Stars. The Zoo Highschool team has captured their 3rd Championship of the spring/summer season. The Zoo was led by Barringer Sr. Reggie Larry with 17 points and 7 boards. Newark Tech Sr. Richard Brown added 15 points, University Sr. Phil Valdez led with 4 steals, Bloomfield Tech Soph Kelvin Brown led with 3 blocks, and the games MVP St. Patrick's Sr. Desmond Sanders scored 6 points, 5 boards, 3 steals, and 9 assist. His defense pressure doesn't show in the stats but he caused 5, 5 second calls in the game. This game can be seen on Newark Cablevision Channel 19 on 9-19-03 at 11pm.'

9/6/03  Vinny Kabus: 'I would just like to say that I have seen Jason Hernadez play many times along the years as Speedy Claxton's backcourt partner at Hofstra . As anyone who has ever seen his play can attest, he does an incredible job at separating himself from his defender using explosive dribble skills and step backs. He was a solid guard with all the great fundamentals. Now he has gone into teaching and training, in which case I have also closely witnessed and I must say that his workouts are incredible and unique. He seems to do a great job teaching his skills to all age and skill levels [ including NBA level ]. I would like to recommend any player, parent or coach to check out his basketball camp for yourself. The best form of advertisement is usually word of mouth, therefore don't just take my word for it, try to find someone else who has expierenced his workout and they will tell you the same thing.'

9/6/03  Vinny Kabus: 'Great job on the class of 2004 additions . It was the first " detailed " evaluations I have seen on many players who may not be so widely known . Keep up the great work John.'

9/5/03 Shawn McCray: 'Zoo Crew Summer League Championship games -- The games will be played 9-6-03 beginning at 4pm. They weren't played last Saturday due to the rain.  4pm Team Ka vs Kips Bay, 5:15pm P.A.S.S. vs Moment of Youth, 6:30pm Zoo Crew vs Team KA, and 7:45pm Zoo Crew B vs Newark Blaze.   The games will be played at the Hank Aaron Sports Complex located on Springfield Ave. and Prince St. in Newark. Direction can be acquired by calling 973-449-7324.'

9/5/03 John P Miciotta: Alphabetically lists 27 player updates from the class of 2004.

9/5/03 NY Post: Hoop Star Catches On -- Nyan Boateng.

9/5/03 NJ Hoops: Union High School head coach Bob Grausso has left the coaching spot with the Farmers to become the Athletic Director at Hackettstown High School.

9/5/03 LFBALL: Concerning Eric Hicks.

9/5/03 Coach Anderson is having a fall clinic at Upper Room Schoolin Dix Hills NY for Boys and Girls Ages k-9th. Starting Sept 15 - Nov 17th on Monday nights.

9/4/03 Jason Hernandez, Best Prep Basketball Camp, Inc: 'This is a camp that I will be having for High Schoolers at the Island Garden in West Hempstead. Teams from Brooklyn, Queens and individuals from anywhere in NY are welcome. This is a station style camp that will have games on the third and final night. There will be 9 HS coaches from LI and myself to teach the fundamentals as well as how to get your shot off and get shots for others. There is nothing like this. The concepts are based on the things I have been teaching for the last 5 years to 10 year olds all of the way to NBA players. The clinic is Mon thru Wed., Sept 15, 16 and 17. 5PM to 7PM for 8th and JV and 7PM-9PM for varsity. There will be lecturers for parents as well, on the mental aspects of the game by a PhD in Psychology as well as a plyometrics station, heavy ball station and more. I guarantee this event will be a success and I want to share it with your audience. If you would like to contact me then the best place to reach me is on my cell @516-835-1976 or by e-mail @ jrhbiz@aol.com. My references are Jay Wright, Tom Pecora and Wally Sczcerbiak for the type of work that I do.'

9/4/03 Roberto E. Diaz, NYC Finest 'I want to take the time to congratulate and wish the best to our freshmen in their new assignments in their respective colleges: Roberto Felipe (NYU), Theodore Greene (Bethune Cookman College), Kevin Paradise (Westchester C.C.), Jaysen Murphy (Oneota College), Devon Irby (Old Westbury College), Warren McCallister Jr. (Barberscotia College, NC), Durell Watson (St. Francis College) & David Bucknor (Schenectady C.C.).'

9/4/03 Coach Rock Eisenberg: 'Just a quick note to let you know that I have now become the Athletic Director at Tilden High School. I am taking over the position from Miss Joanne Belinsky, who has done an outstanding job over the past few years. I hope to be able to continue the tradition of excellence that she has established and I look forward to working with our dedicated coaches and student-athletes. Peace to all.'

9/4/03 David Nelson: 'The Kips Bay Basketball Program is now accepting teams for our 4th annual Fall Ball Classic. Each team is guaranteed 3 games. The entry fee for all divisions is $275. The dates for each division are as follows: October 24-26, 2003 10U Boys,  November 1-2, 2003 11U Boys,  November 8-9, 2003 12U Boys,  November 15-16, 2003 10U Girls,  November 22-23, 2003 12U Girls, December 5-7, 2003 13U Boys

Teams interested in participating need to contact the basketball office at (718) 893-8600 ext 229 or go to our website at www.eteamz.com/kipsbaybball.'

9/4/03 Roberto E. Diaz, NYC Finest - 'Our 18u will be taking on the East New Yorkers in the first round of the playoffs at the Lefrak City Classic on Friday 9/5 at 7:30pm, 18u will be playing their first season game in the Almighty Force tournament at Gurshwin Linden Blvd and Van Siclen Ave in Bklyn. on Saturday 9/6 at 12:00pm as well as the I.S. 8 Fall Classic on Sunday 9/7 at 3:30pm vs F.Y.A.

Our 16u will be playing Antioch Church on Saturday at 5:00pm also at the Lefrak City Classic.

14u will be playing in the 2nd Rd of the playoffs on Sunday 9/7 at 1:15pm at Almighty Force at Ajax Park 116 ave and 140 St in Jamaica vs the winner of Saturday's game.

9/3/03 tbone: 'Coach Bob Grauso has decided to step down as the head coach at Union HS to become the athletic director at Hackettstown High.'

9/3/03 Coach Tim Cluess: 'St. Mary's H.S. is looking for games for their J.V. and freshman teams as well as scrimages for varsity,J.V. and freshman. Contact Tim Cluess at THOOPS4435@aol.com.'

9/3/03 Vincent Davis: 'The Pro Style 2K4 "Winter league" basketball season begins January 2004.' More on the Pro Style 2K4 page.

9/2/03 Coach Jason Jackson: 'I'd like to congratulate my 16 and u Bronx King team for this summer. They were not that big in height but showed up with players such as Netfa I, Rasheem Jenkins aka Rah Rah and Eric Bush. We bumped off teams such as Abyssinian featuring Denzel Barnes, Harry Cadell, Daryl Harrison and many others. We also beat Riverside Church with one of the top freshmen in the state, Mike Colburn. We finished off second place in UDC losing by four points. We also finished off in third place in nike Swoosh losing to a powerful Holly Cross team featuring Patrick Thomas, Nicholas Murphy, Andrew Vandyke and we came up four points shy again. But be on the lookout for us in Gauchos Roundball and Nike Riverside cause we ain't taken noten' else but first. Thank you to my coach Casey. When it looked like a bad summer it turnded into another good one. Be on the lookout for the three kids I named. This winter they will be playing varsity at Mt.St.Michaels and Wings.'

9/2/03 NYHoops.com: Keith Mason's summer in Review.

9/2/03 The Chronicle Online: Greg Paulus commits to Duke.

9/2/03 PrepStars: Greg Paulus to Blue Devils.

9/2/03 HoopMasters: Multi-Sport star from NY will play at Duke -- Greg Paulus has announced his plans for college.

9/2/03 John P Miciotta: Report from the Coalition for Youth Development's Battle of the States Tournament at Wadleigh High on Saturday.

9/2/03 Coach Artie Cox (sondayfoundation@aol.com):  This and that.

9/2/03 Anthony Nicedemo: 'Teaches Hoops presents the Westchester's Best High School Fall League. Introduction on the Westchester's Best Fall League page.'

9/2/03 Chris Tarver: The Monmouth Power Sports Club presents the 1st Annual Icon Classic Fall Slam Fest Basketball Tournament  Introduction on the Icon Classic page.

9/2/03 Louis Xifaras: Mario Chabau, sophomore, has transfered into Bryant High School from Park West High School.

9/2/03 Coach Glen Steinberg: The Warriors just returned from the HIU nationals held in Massachussets. Our draw included playing teams from Michigan, Virginia, Maine, Massachussets, Iowa and one other team from New York (Westchester Hawks). We finished second in the Nationals losing in the final game (our only loss) to a team we had previously beaten, Beast Mode out of Boston, MA.'

9/2/03 Coach Bill McNally: 'My Junior Varsity Coach at Poly Prep Michael Cacace, has taken a graduate assistant position on Coach Jay Wright's staff at Villanova University. Michael did an outstanding job for us at Poly and he is very excited about this great new opportunity! I am currently looking to find someone who might be interested in joining our coaching staff. I do have someone in mind but I will not be certain of his work situation for another month and would be happy to hear from qualified people who would be interested in the position. Interested parties can email me at bmcnally@polyprep.org.'

9/2/03 Coach Sly Johnson: It's a Wrap! Championship results on the Manhasset Allstars Summer League page.

9/2/03 Booksnball: 'Very refreshing to see Coach Wee Francis in his 9/103 posting comments mention academic responsibilities when he said, "get ready to hit the books and keep those grades up at all times!" Hopefully this 03-04 season will be a turning point with more coaches recognizing this priority & motivating their players to be academically responsible for their own progress. Way to go coach!'

9/1/03 Paul Brown: 'Coaches meeting for the 2003 Gauchos Nike Roundball Classic on Wednesday, September 3rd, 2003 at 7:00pm at the Gauchos Gymnasium, 478 Gerard Avenue, Bronx, NY 10473.  Telephone: 718 665-6952. Fax: 718 401-8582. 5 divisions: 12 and under; 14 and under; 16 and under; HS Girls: HS boys.  Age cut-off: a player can not turn the next age before September 1, 2003.'

9/1/03 Coach Jeff Rivera, RimRockers 14u team after 2 losses in championship games we won the Manhasset All-stars Summer league chip on a last second putback by MVP Devin Hayes off of a missed free throw with 3 seconds left in the game he rebounded a missed foul shot and scored with no time left in the game .Temendous defensive effort by Hass Amini, Roland Davis, Marcello Barrera, Jayson Phillipe, James Galanos, George Jackson and MVP Devin Hayes we pressed this team all game long to take away the big advantage they had in size and caused numerous turnovers which led to fast break points and frustrated them all game long. I want to send a big thanks to Sly Williams and his staff for putting on a league that was free and was very well run and organized I wish there were more people like Sly who just want to see kids play ball and not try to make a living off of these tourneys. Thanks Sly we need more like you.'

9/1/03 Antonio Cannon Sr: 'Last weekend's results, next weekend's schedule and 18u playoffs on the Lefrak City Summer Basketball Classic page.'

9/1/03 Coach Wee Francis: 'Wee All-stars took the chip at the Ron Artest tournament 13 & under division against Brooklyn Bridge. This game show cased some of the best 13 & under talent in the city. I want to thank all of the Wee All-stars for their hard work and get ready to hit the books and keep those grades up at all times!

1- Lamont Jones aka Momo, 23 pts and MVP. 2 - Lenny Monen, 19 pts. He would've scored an easy 40 and took the MVP had it not been for a questionable call in which he fouled out.  3 - Shasha Brown, 11 pts. He was too much for the Bridge on defense and he destroyed them at the free throw line. 4 - Dre Calloway, 9 pts. Good guard play and the Bridge had no one to match up with him one on one.  5 - Darryl Bryant 5 pts. We lost him early in the game but his offense was too much for the Bridge.  6 - Allan Forbes, 3 pts. The stats don't tell the story on how important the big man was under the basket.  7 - Alan Kellman, again, the books don't give the props to all players unless you put the ball in the net but this big man was clearly a force and made the Bridge change their game plan. 8 - Armani Cardwood, the only 11yr old on my roster for this tournament. His contribution to the game won't be in the book but on the floor his defense in the closing minutes of the game kept the Bridge from moving the ball.  9 - Zameon Price, couldn't make the game for personal reasons.'

9/1/03 Coach Rudy King: 'First I would like to congratulate the Wee All Star team for playing a strong game to capture the 2003 Championship. This game was everything that it was hyped up to be. Led by Lenny McNeil and MoMo (Game MVP - 23 pts.), the Wee All Stars came out ready to play and showed their big game experience. The Brooklyn Bridge led by Brandon Romain (Sportsmanship Award - 31pts. 16 bds.) and AJ Rogers (16pts. 15bds.) played one of the biggest games of their young lives and put on a great show for the very enthusiastic crowd who anticipated this matchup the entire tournament. This was a coach's dream game because it provided almost every coaching decision that you would have to make. The game was controlled by the Wee All Stars throughout with the Bridge making big runs but never getting closer than (4). MoMo was incredible with the ball and Lenny provided the inside power -- the 4th quarter was one of the most exciting quarters of the summer. With Wee All Stars leading by 11 to start the quarter the Brooklyn Bridge made a run that had the crowd in an uproar led by Brandon Romain, Vincent Council, AJ Rogers, James Johnson and Lance Stephenson. With 18 seconds left the Bridge went up by 1 with a big basket by Brandon Romain. Trailing by 1 Wee All Stars sinks both to take the laed for good.

Once again, Congrats and I'll see you next year same place, same time!'

9/1/03 Brooklyn Scout: 'Kris Polk, a 6-0 combo guard from Camden (NJ) Wilson HS, will begin his collegiate career this fall at Eastern Oklahoma JC.  Polk averaged 20.7 points during the 2002-03 season for Camden, which  compiled a 20-6 mark and reached the South Jersey Group 3  semifinals. As a  junior, Polk averaged 16.8 points for an 18-10 team.'