January, 2007

1/31/07 Metro Hoops: #2 St. Patrick Takes Down #1 St. Benedict’s.

1/31/07 NJ Hoops: St. Pat's Prevails.

1/31/07 NJO: St. Benedict's knocked for a loss.

1/31/07 NJO: 'Linden 76 (15-1-0), Westfield 23 (10-6-0). Darrell Lampley poured in 12 of his 15 points in a 21-2 second-period spurt that gave Linden, No. 6 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, a 35-12 lead in Westfield. Jerry Jones added 13 points and George Bease and Muhammad Wilkerson (11 rebounds) each sank 10 points in the victory. Mike Venezia had eight for Westfield.

St. Patrick's 66 (16-1-0), St. Benedict's 60 (18-1-0).

1/31/07 NJO: The Hurley coaching dynasty.

1/31/07 John Neves, Baruch Sports Information: 'Burt Beagle was moved yesterday to the House of Calvary in the Bronx. While his recent location Kings Harbor helped his condition, he is being moved to a place that is better suited to treat his current cancer and back problem. According to Burt, it is his back that is the most painful to him on a daily basis. I have linked below Calvary's website with information on how to visit him, or if you have time, you can also call to say hello on his cell (646-305-6837).  www.calvaryhospital.org.'

1/31/07 NY Post: Judges coach Ron Naclerio.gets 500th win.

1/31/07 Daily News: Lance Stephenson, Railsplitters get job done. Cardozo coach gets 500th win - Judges coach Ron Naclerio.

1/31/07 NY Insider Mike Sands: One Of The Best On Long Island. Cardozo Lead Guard Has Some D-1 Interest - Trinity Fields.

1/30/07 National Prep Basketball Poll - Week 10 includes 3. Elizabeth, N.J., St. Patrick 16-1 meets No. 5 St. Benedict's on Tuesday, 5. Newark, N.J., St. Benedict's 19-0 four seniors are Division I recruits, 16. New York, N.Y., Rice 16-2 both losses to Top 25 squads, 17. Jersey City, N.J., St. Anthony 16-0 six of top seven scorers are underclassmen, 19. Mount Vernon, N.Y. 13-2 upset by Aliquippa, Pa., in OT, at Pittsburgh High School Classic, 22. Brooklyn, N.Y., Boys & Girls 22-0 led by versatile PG Zamal Nixon.

1/30/07 USA Today Super 25 boys basketball rankings have 1. St. Benedict's, Newark, N.J. (18-0). Result: Beat American Christian (Aston, Pa.) 94-77 in Brian Doherty Classic in Newark.  4. St. Patrick, Elizabeth, N.J. (15-1). Results: Beat Lawrenceville (N.J.) Prep 72-46 and American Christian (Aston, Pa.) 68-65. 5. St. Anthony, Jersey City (15-0). Results: Beat Cardinal McCarrick (South Amboy) 81-59 and Christian Brothers Academy (Lincroft) 69-56. 16. Rice, Manhattan, N.Y. (17-2). Results: Beat Wings Academy (Bronx) 73-59 and Archbishop Molloy (Queens) 92-53. 18. Christ the King, Queens, N.Y. (15-2). Results: Beat St. Francis Prep (Queens) 64-51 and All Hallows (Bronx) 60-45. 24. Mount Vernon, N.Y. (13-2). Results: Beat Lincoln (Yonkers) 115-46, New Rochelle 82-63 and Roosevelt (Yonkers) 106-70; lost to Aliquippa (Pa.) 108-99 in overtime in Pittsburgh High School Basketball Classic.

1/30/07 Daily News: Kangaroos thrive with lots of Love.

1/30/07 NY Post: Storm surrounds David Imes.

1/30/07 HSSM TV: St. Benedicts vs. St. Patrick’s preview.

1/30/07 Jersey Journal: Friars win 16th -- St Anthony 76, Monmouth Academy 48.

1/30/07 Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Pittsburgh Basketball Classic: Aliquippa outlasts Mount Vernon in OT.

1/30/07 NY Insider: Cardozo Secures Win Against LI Lutheran. Sylven Landesberg, Holy Cross Zip Past Chaminade.

1/30/07 PSAL.org: Boys basketball borough playoffs & citywide postseason tournament.

1/30/07 HSSM TV: St. Benedicts Rolls Past American Christian.

1/30/07 Coach Carlton Screen (FYA): This is for all the PSAL players and coaches in 1965, who knew a great player and teammate from the Erasmus Hall championship team. Coak Cannon has passed on. I received a call on Saturday morning from my coach Mr Bernard Kirsner, and he informed me of our loss.To the many people that knew him he was a great competitor and teammate.He was the heart and soul of the team, he played center at 6'3, but he played like he was 6'8. He went to college in Chicago and lived there for the remainder of his life.'

1/30/07 Reginald Murray (Brooklyn Rams): 'Sophomore Kervin "Sticks" Rameau (6'3"/G) is having a great JV season at Midwood High School. Kervin is averaging 21 ppg; and dropped 44 pts during a 89-70 loss to Thomas Jefferson HS last week.'

1/30/07 Coach Lawrence Pollard: 'On Thursdaay Feb. 1, Jefferson will be hosting its 3rd Annual Tony Jackson Day. On this day we will be honoring the seniors as well as legendary Grady Coach Jack Ringel prior to the start of the 5:00 PM Jefferson vs. Carnarsie game @ Jefferson Campus.'

1/29/07 NJO: Bloomfield Tech 56 (15-1-0), Newark East Side 49 (10-6-0). St. Anthony 76 (16-0-0), Monmouth Academy 48 (9-8-0).

1/29/07 Metro Hoops: Cougar Classic Recap -- Thomas Jefferson H.S. upends Paterson Catholic 64-61.

1/29/07 NY Post: Nathaniel Lester sparks Canarsie.

1/29/07 Daily News: Canarsie's Chief gets help.  Oh brother, it's a Holy Cross victory.

1/29/07 Chicago Tribune: Sonny Vaccaro leaves shoes, not sport, behind.

1/29/07 Kristie Ackert: 'The Daily News is hosting it's first Borough Battle Saturday, February 3rd at the legendary St. Nicholas of Tolentine School Gymnasium. The 5 p.m. game features Wings with the dynamic backcourt of Jamie Harris and Kidani Brutus against Grady's high-scoring guard Tyief Thompson. The 6:30 p.m. game will have Cardozo's young core of James Southerland, Eddy Toussaint and Trinity Fields up against Our Saviour Lutheran's Dre Calloway, Winston Graham and Brian Wilson. The gym is located at 2336 Andrews Ave. (near the intersection of University and Fordham Rd.) in the Bronx. The nearest subways are the 4, B, D to Fordham Road. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students. All proceeds from the event will go to the Diane Brennan Scholarship Fund, which is in memory of the former Daily News high school sports editor.'

1/28/07 Daily News: Wadleigh rollin'.

1/28/07 Metro Hoops Who's Who of the Top Players in NJ.

1/28/07 NJO: Blair 59 (14-5-0), St. Benedict's Prep 48 (8-4-0).  Bloomfield 61 (11-4-0), Caldwell 35 (9-7-0). St. Benedict's 94 (18-0-0), American Christian 77 (17-5-0).

1/28/07 NJO: 'Linden 78 (14-1-0), Union 43 (4-13-0). Darrell Lampley struck for 16 of his 22 points in the first half to steer No. 6 Linden to a 40-25 advantage in Linden. Muhammad Wilkerson helped in the early surge with 11 of his 18 points. Desmond Wade had 14 points and eight assists and Jerry Jones scored 12 points for Linden. Union got 13 points from David Jackson.

St. Anthony 69 (15-0-0), Christian Brothers 56 (12-6-0). St. Anthony, No. 1 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, grabbed a 19-point lead in the first half behind the scoring of Chris Gaston and Mike Rosario and cruised to a 69-56 victory over Christian Brothers in Lincroft. Gaston led all scorers with 17 points, Rosario chipped in with 16 and Tyshawn Taylor had 13. Brian Neller paced Christian Brothers with 15 points, all on 3-point shots.'

1/28/07 NJ Hoops: St. Benedict's splits - prep team loses, high school team wins.

1/28/07 Coach Eric 'Rock' Eisenberg: 'I wanted to take this time to thank some members of the high school basketball 'family'' who often get overlooked until you need them. This group is the trainers, chiropractors and team doctors who help all of our student/athletes and coaches when we get hurt or injured. This became clear to me this Thursday when our leading scorer and second leading rebounder 6' 4" junior Ashton Pascall got hurt during practice. I called longtime friend Dr. Leslie Dreifus and his wife and partner, the super Dr. Robin Wieder. Dr. Wieder said bring him right over. She gave Ashton immediate first class care and gave us a preliminary diagnosis. She also recommended that we see Dr. Robert Meyerson who is the Assoc. Chief of Sports Medicine at St. Vincent's Hospital in Manhattan. Dr. Meyerson and his incredible staff gave us a 10 AM appointment the very next day, while we were there the whole staff took amazing care of Ashton in a beautiful and top flight hospital .I wish every student/athlete who unfortunately gets hurt can get this kind of care when he or she needs it. I wanted to take this chance to also thank the great doctors and medical support team at Downstate Hospital who under Dr. William Urban have done wonders for all of our student/athletes for many years, these men and women are the unsung heroes of the PSAL and on behalf of our players, coaches and athletic directors I want to say thanks.'

1/27/07 Times Ledger: A weekend to remember for Mike Cavataio. St. Francis Prep star commits to SJU.

1/27/07 NJO: 'St. Patrick's 72 (14-1-0), Lawrenceville 46 (12-6-0). Jeff Robinson and Corey Fisher scored 22 and 18 points, respectively, and each took down seven rebounds for No. 2 St. Patrick's Thursday night in Elizabeth. Dexter Strickland aided the victory, St. Patrick's ninth straight, with 11 points and four steals. Porter Braswell scored 13 points for Lawrenceville.'

1/27/07 NJO: 'St. Anthony High boys varsity basketball team will play on the campus of Christian Brother's Academy today at 2 p.m. The location was changed from Brookdale Community College to CBA's campus (850 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft).'

1/27/07 NY Insider: There's A Lot To Like About Malachi Peay.

1/27/07 'Dwayne Mitchell: 'Young World Inc. Presents the 2nd Annual High School Challenge at the Gauchos Gymnasium 478 Gerard Ave Bet.E146th and E149th St. Bronx today. The matchups will be girls: Thomas Jefferson vs. Monsignor Scanlan - 1:00pm, boys: Leake and Watts vs. Bless Sacrament - 2:45pm, boys: James Monrore vs. Reginald F. Lewis(MD.) - 4:30pm, boys: Wadleigh vs. Our Savior Lutheran - 6:15pm & boys: Rice HS vs. Wings Academy - 8:00pm. For more information call (347)255-4948 or (718)665-6952.'

1/26/07 USA Hoops Concensus Poll has 3. St. Patrick - Elizabeth, NJ,  12. St. Anthony - Jersey City, NJ, 14. Mount Vernon - Mount Vernon, NY,  15. Rice - Manhattan, NY,  16. Boys and Girls - Brooklyn, NY,  24. Seton Hall Prep - West Orange, NJ,  27. Christ The King - Middle Village, NY,  81. Linden - Linden, NJ.

1/26/07 Journal News: Mike Coburn, Kenny Horton nominated for McDonald's All-American game.

1/26/07 NJO: ABCD Camp ending a positive start.

1/26/07 NJO: 'Bloomfield Tech 60 (14-1-0), St. Benedict's Prep 55 (9-3-0). Senior guards Wesley Jenkins and Rashon Dwight combined for 51 points, 19 in a pivotal second quarter, and sent Bloomfield Tech, No. 4 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, to a 62-55 victory over St. Benedict's Prep last night in West Caldwell. Bloomfield Tech stretched its winning streak to 14 points while St. Benedict's Prep--the Newark school's team which allows post-graduates to play--lost for the first time in seven games.

Jenkins, headed for St. Peter's College, tossed in 10 of his 26 points and Iona-bound Dwight added nine as their team forged a 35-25 lead before the half. Dwight also finished with 10 assists and Jenkins had eight rebounds and six assists. "They're both playing at another level right now, and it's more than just scoring with the ball," Bloomfield Tech coach Nick Mariniello said. "But we got a lot of valuable contributions tonight, and the kinds of things that don't show up in the box score."

Rashad Bishop scored 22 points and Jabari Edwards had 14 for St. Benedict's Prep. Dante Rollins, who played at Bloomfield Tech last year, had six against his former team.

Linden 64 (13-1-0), Newark East Side 56 (9-5-0).  Jerry Jones scored 22 points and three of his teammates joined him in double figures as No. 6 Linden overcame a 25-point, 13-rebound effort by East Side's Corey Chandler in Linden.

Seton Hall Prep 78 (14-0-0), Morristown 27 (6-8-0). Gary Wallace tossed in nine of his 14 points in the first quarter to direct No. 3 Seton Hall Prep to a 16-10 advanage in West Orange. Ashton Gibbs scored 15 points, Alan Buzbee had 12 and Wallace helped with five assists in the victory. Keaton Smith led Morristown with 15 points.'

1/26/07 Courier Post: Balanced Shawnee tops Cherokee.

1/26/07 Philly.com: Shawnee clamps down on defense to defeat Cherokee.

1/25/07 Daily News: Well-traveled Ravens return to Bronx refreshed after long road trip. Ryan Davis and Craig "Kat" Keyes drop anchor at Bayside. Youth AAU coach reunites with former AAU star to lead Commodores. Cards' two-of-a-kind. For depleted Hayes, playoff hopes remain big and small. Flawless Kangaroos enter home stretch at 22-0.

1/25/07 NY Post: Malik Boothe 'D' lifts Royals.

1/25/07 NY Insider Profile: New Yorker Thomas Manzano.

1/25/07 MSG Network: Big man on campus -- Sylven Landesberg.

1/25/07 Coach Eric 'Rock' Eisenberg: 'I wanted to take this chance to thank Donald Douglas, Danny Harris, Mel Goldstein and Artie Leitner for creating the new Boys basketball format,which I feel has sparked interest all around the city. I also want to thank long time PSAL staff member Lorna Austin for helping all the coaches and athletic directors on a daily basis.

I would like to sing the praises of two great coaches who have flown under the radar for many years. They are Chris Weil of Telecom and Mike Perazzo of East New York Transit Tech. Both of these top flight coaches really "Get it" . They teach their players how to play the game the right way. They do all the correct things before,during and after the game to prepare their student/athletes for college and beyond. I for one really enjoy competing against men like these who share the same values as Roy Steinbach of Sheepshead Bay, Vic Gjeca of Midwood and John Sce of New Utrecht. It has been a pleasure to play against coach Vic Butler and his hard working Erasmus Hall team and I have also enjoyed playing against the fine Fort Hamilton, Madison and Lafayette High School teams. While some people will feel that the AA league is a great way to promote the PSAL and it is, we are playing good competitive basketball in Brooklyn A East and West. In closing I also want to thank Nick Gaetani and Leroy Hendricks for their hard work in getting high quality officials to work all of our games.Thanks guys!! As far as Tilden High School is concerned we are fighting for a playoff spot behind the divisions leading scorer Ashton Pascall and the division's leading rebounder Nigel Francis. We have 22 players on our team and we are working hard each day to rebound from the last two tough years. We look forward to finding out if we are good enough to make a long playoff run.'

1/24/07 Rich Kosik aka Booksnball: ABCD & Sonny Vacaro.

1/24/07 USA Today Super 25 boys basketball rankings includes 1. St. Benedict's, Newark, N.J. (17-0). Results: Beat KIMA (Washington, D.C.) 74-46 and Plainfield 85-71.  4. St. Patrick, Elizabeth, N.J. (13-1). Results: Beat then-No. 16 Fairfax (Los Angeles) 63-60 in HoopHall Classic, beat Life Center (Burlington) 70-47 and St. Joseph (Metuchen) 70-47.  5. St. Anthony, Jersey City (13-0). Results: Beat Bellaire (Houston) 61-52 in Spalding HoopHall Classic in Springfield, Mass., and Hoboken (N.J.) 76-30.  17. Rice, Manhattan, N.Y. (15-2). Results: Beat Niagara Falls 70-49 and Holy Cross (Queens) 83-72. 18. Mount Vernon, N.Y. (10-1).Results: Lost to then-No. 12 Norcross (Ga.) 72-63 in HoopHall Classic and beat Scarsdale 88-58. 20. Christ the King, Queens, N.Y. (13-2). Results: Beat Brooklyn schools Xaverian 72-52 and Bishop Loughlin 62-49.

1/24/07 Metro Hoops NJ top ten.

1/24/07 NJO: Best of times for St. Benedict's.

1/24/07 NY Insider: Daryl Bryant, St. Raymond's Upends Farrell.

1/24/07 Philly.com: Julian Sanders leads Renegades past the Lions.The senior swingman scored 19 of his 23 points in the second half to lift Shawnee to a 54-32 win.

1/24/07 NJO: 'Linden 80 (11-1-0), Kearny 48 (4-7-0).Darrell Lampley finished with a career-high 35 points and Desmond Wade added 18 for Linden, which held a 32-18 halftime lead in Kearny. Jerry Jones scored 11 points for Linden to reach 1,000 for his career, which includes two seasons at Lakewood High. Tommy McDermott paced Kearny with 16 points and Alfredo Echevestre added 12.

Seton Hall Prep 76 (13-0-0), Livingston 45 (2-10-0). Junior guard Ashton Gibbs notched eight of his 20 points in the first quarter when Seton Hall Prep, No. 3 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, opened a 16-8 lead in Livingston. Alan Buzbee contributed 13 points and five rebounds for Seton Hall Prep while Jordan Epstein pumped in 17 points for Livingston.

Shawnee 54, Cherry Hill West 32. Julian Sanders connected for 23 points and Will Kernan added 22 for Shawnee, which turned a 21-10 third-quarter burst into a 37-23 advantage in Cherry Hill. Ian Davis finished with 13 points and Marko Smojver scored 10 for Cherry Hill West.

St. Benedict's Prep 75, Edison Academy 54. Chris Smith sank five 3-pointers in scoring 28 points in Edison as St. Benedict's Prep (8-2) extended its winning streak to six games. Dante Rollins drained four 3-pointers in adding 14 points for St. Benedict's Prep, which enjoyed a 47-18 advantage at halftime.'

1/24/07 Coach Sean Atkins: 'On Sunday The Boys' Club of New York’s Academic All-Star’s defeated the Trinity-Pawling School 69-61 behind Post Graduate PG Kevin White’s 30 points, 8 assists, and 8 steals. Senior SG Lanval Gordon scored 22 points added 7 rebounds and 5 assists. 6’8’’ SF/PF Post Graduate Paulo Da Cruz also had a solid game adding 10 points and 13 rebounds. The team is currently 13 and 4 and has upcoming games against St. Benedict’s Prep, American Christian and St. Mark’s School . Any coaches interested please give me a call 646-302-8039 or email me satkins@admin.bcny.org.'

1/23/07 National Prep Basketball Poll - Week 9 lists 3. Elizabeth, N.J., St. Patrick 14-1 beat regionally ranked Fairfax at HoopHall Classic in Springfield, Mass. 5. Newark, N.J., St. Benedict's 17-0 defeated state-ranked Plainfield, 17. Mount Vernon, N.Y. 10-1 only loss to No. 7 Norcross, 19. New York, N.Y., Rice 14-2 both losses to Top 25 teams, 21. Jersey City, N.J., St. Anthony 13-0 junior PG Travon Woodall committed to Pittsburgh, 22. Brooklyn, N.Y., Boys & Girls 21-0 Ruth Lovelace a rare boys prep female head coach.

1/23/07 Journal News: Mount Vernon reserves play leading role.

1/23/07 NJO: 'St. Anthony 81 (14-0-0), Cardinal McCarrick 59 (10-4-0). Mike Rosario led the way with 22 points and Chris Gaston tossed in 20 to help No. 1 St. Anthony cruise to its 14th straight victory in Jersey City. A.J. Rogers contributed 18 points for St. Anthony while Vince Rosario hit for a game-high 25 points for Cardinal McCarrick.'

1/23/07 Queens Courier’s Basketball Top 10.

1/23/07 Jersey Journal: Classic Friars -- St. Anthony rolls at Finn competition.

1/23/07 PSAL.org: Classic Comeback.

1/23/07 Daily News: Sonny Vaccaro says RIP to ABCD.

1/23/07 Martin J Hogarty: 'Congratulations to the St Francis Xavier Lions on defeating their rival St Clare's on Sat Jan 20th.SFX was led by the heads up point guard Nick Sedia, the big man rebounding of Joe Paulus (at least 20), and the scoring of Kenny Hogarty (27pts).'

1/23/07 Abdu-Allah Torrrence: '2K7 Team Providence Invitational High School Hoops PG Tournament @ LaSalle Academy, Providence, Rhode Island. Saturday January 20th, #3 Notre Dame Prep, MA 90 - Marianapolis Prep, CT 48, Windsor HS, CT 73 - LaSalle Academy, RI 76 O.T. Thurgood Marshall Academy, NY 57 - St. Raphael, RI 61 & Lee Academy, ME 68 - Lutheran Christian Academy, PA 79. Sunday January 21st Consolation:Thurgood Marshall Academy, NY 64 - LaSalle Academy, RI 62 & championship: Lutheran Christian Academy, PA 63 - #3 Notre Dame Prep, MA 80. Tournament MVP - Michael Beasley - Notre Dame Prep, All - Tournament included Jamine Peterson - Notre Dame Prep & Steven Ruple - Thurgood Marshall Academy.'

1/23/07 D.Kirkpatrick: 'Paul Scotland is playing well at Urban Peace Academy. This past week on Friday January 19, 2007 Paul dropped 57pts against Kennedy High school in the Bronx. Paul's avg is 30pts 5asst 5rbs.'

1/23/07 Coach Jones: 'The Dragons winning ways come to an end with a loss to Environmental Studies HS 45-31. The Dragons' star player Sam Porte suffers an injury in the second quarter and the team could never regain the lead. However, early in the week the Dragons beat George Washington 44-31. They were led by Porte with 17 points and 17 rebounds.'

1/23/07 Jimmy Salmon: 'The Playaz Basketball Club's 9th Annual Spring Fling tournament is right around the corner. Most brackets are filling up fast. Thanks to your participation the event has grown into the 'unofficial' start of the grassroots basketball season in our area. Phase I will be March 23rd - 25th, for 13u/7th graders - 14u/8th graders and 15u/9th graders; then the next weekend March 28th - April 1st (Phase II) will be for 12u/6th graders - 16u/10th graders and 17u/11th graders. Please check our web site for info regarding specifics @ www.playazbasketball.org. The page titled Spring Fling 07 will update you on available slots while the page titled Register/Forms will explain the signing up process. Teams needing any additional information should contact me directly at 973-207-4346 or via email at JimSal@tmail.com. We only accept teams on a first paid/first entered basis.'

1/22/07 Daily News: Randy Battle & Lamont Jones lift Rice

1/22/07 Vinny Kabus: 'Wow!, was the first reaction I had when Mike Cavataio told me of his commitment to St Johns.It wasn't too long ago that I was mentioning how Mike was one of the best unknown/under-recruited players around. In fact at the start of his senior season, Mike hadn't had any offers. But just last week I posted on this site that Mike had received multiple offers from schools such as Hofstra, Manhattan, Boston U and Lehigh. I also mentioned other schools were jumping in. I Guess St Johns stepped in and Mike Cavataio jumped on the offer. I have seen and wrote about some players who went from nothing to great situations before, but I have never heard of anyone rising up so high so fast. Talk about a change of fortune! But if anyone deserves it, it's Mike. Conrats and good luck. See you at the Garden.'

1/22/07 Coach Ellis: 'Once again Wings Academy proves to be a powerhouse in New York City by winning their game on Friday by 71 against Manhattan Center. Even though Wings suffered 4 non league losses they are still a title contender in the PSAL.They have a 6 man rotation that coach Billy Turnage rolls with. Billy's star player on this team is Jamie Harris (PG) who is averaging over 18 a game and he has proved to be one of the top guards in the city he is committed to Drexel University, Jabor Forde (SG) who is considered to be the 3rd best defender in the city behind Malik Booth and Kemba Walker he only averages about 9 points per game but he brings so much energy on defense and sometimes offense, Kidani Brutus (SF) who is having kind of a tough year but he is still considered one of the best shooters in the city. He also is committed to Drexel University, David Williamson (PF) is a transfer from All Hollows and is a great addition to Wings. He is scoring about 13 points a game and grabbing 7 boards. Bejion Warrington (C) also a transfer from All Hollows is a beast on the boards averaging over 10 boards a game and a little over 9 points per game, And finally their 6th man who you going to hear about more next year Ronald Baker who is only a sophmore but averages 15 points a game and is grabbing 5 boards. Ronald is a big part of this team and is their only spark off the bench. Watch out for this saturday game at Gauchos gym Wings vs Rice its going to be a battle of the guards.'

1/22/07 Coach Craig Persiani. 'One member of the class of 2009 who is flying under the rader is Wings Academy guard Ronald Baker. As the third scoring option on a team loaded with Division 1 talent, Ronald is putting up 15 points per game. Ronald is one of the most hardest working players in the tri-state area and his on the ball defense is a good as any guard in the city. He also works just as hard in the classroom as well. He is going to make some college coach very happy in a few years. He also has some unfinished business back in the Bronx to take care of as Wings soars towards the PSAL playoffs.'

1/22/07 NY Insider: Wings Academy Guard Worth Watching -- Kidani Brutus.

1/22/07 Coach William Stasiuk: 'This season, the Automotive Pistons, who start 4 talented underclassmen have been a very inconsistent and somewhat average team. As with many young teams they sometimes play to the level of their opponents, which has led to some unexpected wins and some incredibly stunning losses. The overall record is 7-11 and 5-9 in the Brooklyn A West division. One of our young players has to be congratulated for something that to many is a lost art in today's high school game. Sophomore swingman Michael Bernard (14 ppg / 8 rpg) broke an Automotive H.S. record on Wednesday when he drew 3 more offensive fouls. The school record had been 26 charges drawn, but Bernard broke the record in only the 17th Pistons game of the season. He now has 30 charges drawn after only 18 games. His enthusiam and effort on the defensive end has carried over to the entire team which has drawn 59 charges and are fast approaching the school record of 68. To some the feat may seem unimportant, but knowledgable coaches and fans know that its the little sacrifices that make a difference when building a program.'

1/22/07 John Carroll: 'Notre Dame-bound Ty Nash led the 8th ranked prep team in the country, Northfield Mount Hermon School, to an 89-85 win over New Hampton. Ty scored 37 points and had 13 rebounds in the win. Unsigned-senior Gary Correia had 22 points and 15 assists and unsigned-senior RJ Rutledge had 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. RJ hit the game winning shot with a 3 pointer from the top of the key.'

1/22/07 Dwayne "Coach D" Murray, Varsity Asst. Coach: 'The Mt. Vernon Junior Knights, proud feeder system to the New York State Boys HS champions Mt. Vernon Knights, are sponsoring the 1st Annual Westchester Basketball Championships at Stepinac HS in White Plains on Feb 17-20th for 7th and 8th grade boys basketball teams. We are currently looking for teams to participate in what should be a very competitive tournament. Already confirmed are Greenwich Flames, Jersey City Boys and Girls, Lincoln Hall, MS 302 (Kips Bay) and St. Joe's of Spring Valley. We are especially looking for 7th grade teams. Further information about the tournament can be found at our website, www.mvhoops.com. Or you can call me at 914.438.0498. Look forward to hearing from you.'

1/21/07 NJO: St. Patrick's 78 (13-1-0), St. Joseph (Met.) 58 (8-7-0).

1/21/07 NJO: 'Linden 80 (11-1-0), Newark Academy 40 (8-5-0). Linden, ranked No. 3, poured in 24 straight points in the second quarter for a 46-10 lead at the Dan Finn Classic in Jersey City. Junior guard Desmond Wade scored eight of his 15 points in the opening period for Linden, as teammate David Bruce added 14. Mike Cutri led Newark Academy with 16.

St. Anthony 76 (13-0-0), Hoboken 30 (9-4-0). Mike Rosasio, who finished with 14 points, scored the game's first 11 points on three 3-pointers and two foul shots for St. Anthony, No. 1 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, in Jersey City. St. Anthony's Chris Gaston led all scorers with 16 points.

St. Benedict's 85 (17-0-0), Plainfield 71 (9-4-0). Corey Stokes, Samardo Samuels and Tamir Jackson combined for 70 points for St. Benedict's at the Dan Finn Classic in Jersey City. Samuels scored six of his 23 points in an 8-0 second-quarter run that ended with St. Benedict's holding a 32-28 lead it would not relinquish. Stokes hit four 3-pointers in scoring 25 points while Jackson added 22. Anthony Nelson topped Plainfield, No. 7 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, with 24 points while Jerrell Thompson added 21.

St. Benedict's Prep 75 (7-2-0), Germantown Academy 36 (9-10-0). Chris Smith put up 27 points, seven assists, six rebounds and five steals as St. Benedict's Prep ran its winning streak to five games with the victory over the Pennsylvania school at the Hoop Group Hoop Fest in Harrisburg, Pa. Rashod Bishop added 10 points for St. Benedict's Prep, which amassed a 52-17 advantage by intermission.'

1/21/07 Metro Hoops: Corey Raji reaches 2,000 point.

1/21/07 Coach Hassan Bilal: 'Kenny Stevens is the new head varsity basketball coach at Roosevelt H.S. in Yonkers. Kenny is a veteran on the NYC basketball scene. He is the director of the world renowned Dyckman Summer Basketball League (which is sponsored by Nike). He is also director and a coach with his own Dyckman Youth Basketball Program, which has helped to produce many talented players over the years. Kenny is dedicated to building a winning program at Roosevelt H.S., where he has served as J.V. Coach for the past five years. I am an Assistant Coach under Coach Stevens. I am excited, and I know that Roosevelt basketball has a bright future! The team, which was 0-5 prior to coach Stevens becoming Head Varsity Coach, has gone 4-5 since the coaching change (which took place in mid-december) and have won 3 of the last 4. We are just coming off a 73-43 win over Saunders Tech (1/18). In that win, we were powered by two talented young sophs - Devery Stewart, a slasher with a lot of potenial contributed 18pts. and young sharpshooter Barry Watson added 11pts. (including a pair of 3 ptrs.). 6'5" junior Joseph Fortinos had a double, double with 14 pts. and 14 rebs. We are currently 2-1 in our league, and we play a very talented and nationally ranked Mt. Vernon team next Friday.'

1/20/07 Metro Hoops: Final Quarter with Travon Woodall.

1/20/07 NJ Hoops Super Six is 1. St. Benedict's High School (16-0), 2. St. Patrick's (11-1), 3. St. Anthony's (12-0), 4. Seton Hall Prep (11-0), 5. St. Benedict's Prep (5-2) & 6. Bloomfield Tech (11-1).

1/20/07 NJO: 'Seton Hall Prep 60 (12-0-0), Roxbury 46 (5-6-0). Jason Banzhaf scored eight of his 17 points in the first quarter when unbeaten Seton Hall Prep, No. 4 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, opened a 25-9 lead in West Orange. Alan Buzbee finished with 12 points for Seton Hall Prep and Gary Wallace supplied 11 points and seven rebounds. Ryan O'Donnell totaled 13 points for Roxbury.

St. Patrick's 70 (12-1-0), Life Center 47 (9-8-0).Villanova-bound guard Corey Fisher erupted for 25 points as No. 2 St. Patrick's extended its winning streak to six games in Florence. Jeff Robinson scored 15 points for St. Patrick's, which built a 45-23 lead in the opening half.'

1/20/07 North Jersey: Westwood's Corey Raji reaches 2,000 mark.

1/20/07 NY Insider: Former Wings Academy Guard Has D-1 Interest - Josh Spivey.  New Yorker Michael Tuitt Has An Offer from Morehead State.

1/20/07 Asst Coach Ron Dennis: 'Martin Van-Buren Boys Varsity Basketball team took devistating blows to the chin last week in the PSAL Queens AA division. The Vee-Bees suffered three conference losses to Beach Channel 61-56, Cardozo 73-62, and Bayside 62-56. All three games placed MVB (4 W- 6L in conference play) in a situation where the players could have quit on the season.

Senior leadership won out and the players bounced back. On Tues MVB defeated Flushing H.S. 56-44 sr P.G.Darwyn Lynch added direction as sr S/F Kyle Hunt added 10 pts & 10 rebs, sr P/F Abraham Akinyemi added 8 pts 11 rebs and 10 shot blocks. On Thurs Martin Van-Buren defeated Campus Magnet H.S. 66-53. The Vee-Bees got off to a good start in this contest 22-9 at the end of the 1st quarter and never looked back. Sr P.G. Darwyn Lynch added 19 pts 7 asst Sr S.G. Michael St Rose added 10 pts and much needed on the court leadership, Jr S.F. Antun Maxwell contributed 11 pts with high percentage lay-ups on slash moves. On Fri The Vee-Bees beat William Bryant H.S. 65-50 bringing their in conference record to 7W- 6L. There is light at the end of the tunnel for the Fighting Vee-Bees as four out of the last five remaining contest will be played at home.'

1/20/07Coach Robert Ridarelli: I have been the coach for the Monroe township 8th grade travel team in South Jersey for the past several years and every now and then we get a great player. This year we have one of the best to ever come this way. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Isaiah Morton of Williamstown Middle School in Monroe Township of South Jersey for breaking his school's single game scoring record. Isaiah scored 42 pts. He is presently avg.30 ppg. In a recent game we had over the holiday break he scored 47 pts while avg 37 pts in the tournament for the township team I coach. He is a very unselfish player dishing out lots of assists; his quickness and shooting makes him hard to guard. Isaiah will be one of the next guards out of South Jersey who plays major college ball. Our next game is this Saturday at the middle school at 7pm. The next school game is this Monday at the middle school at 4pm. In Monroe Township players like him come along very seldom, come enjoy great basketball and a great player.'

1/20/07 Lesly Rene: 'There's a senior pg who play's at West Hempstead H.S., and his name is Farley Rene. This young man has been a 3yr starter for coach Ed Cosgrove. As a soph he helped his team to a 20-1 record, as a junior 13-6 and and a playoff appearance. Farley has been selected to the Nassau Top 40 game the last 3 seasons. As a senior this year on a team with a lot of youth, he is avg 22 ppg, 7 apg,4 rbs,4 stls. I feel that this young man has a great basketball I.Q., and that he can play at the D1/D2 level. In games this year vs.Malverne, HHH West, Roslyn, Westbury, Floral Park and Jericho he was his team's leading scorer. He has maintained an 81 gpa, and also attends the Barry Tech School for Graphic Design, where he recently made the honor roll. It is a shame that this wonderful young man has seen little to no interest shown by any school's in the area. Farley has played at I.S.8. played in the Basketball City AAU tourney, he was a member of L.I. Lightning, since the the 9th grade. I just hope that someone in this crazy world of basketball, can also give some of the really good ball players some exposure as well as the "phenom guard's" that NY is known for. Farley is one kid from Long Island with a city game. I hope that one day he will be noticed for his great skill and love for the game.'

1/20/07 Jersey Journal: AJ Rogers picks St Joseph's.

1/19/07 PSAL.org: PSAL Boys Basketball Winter Classic (Saturday, January 20, 2007) St. Francis College.

1/19/07 Jersey Journal: Tavon Woodall says 'yes' to Pitt.

1/19/07 Metro Hoops: Tavon Woodall Commits.St. Anthony's Junior headed to Pittsburgh.

1/19/07 NJO: Bloomfield Tech 81 (11-1-0), Science 64 (12-1-0).

'Linden 64 (10-1-0), Elizabeth 53 (8-5-0). Senior Jerry Jones hit for 10 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter as No. 3 Linden extended a 42-38 lead in Linden. Linden established a 17-8 lead in the first quarter, before being thrown a scare only two days after losing, 56-46, to unranked Irvington. Curtis Myers scored 20 points and Khaseem Greene had 12 for Elizabeth, which rallied to take a 38-33 lead in the third quarter. Elizabeth was in search of its sixth consecutive victory. Darrell Lampley scored 13 points and Desmond Wade had 12 for Linden.

St. Benedict's 74 (16-0-0), Kima 46 (15-8-0) Samardo Samuels scored 20 points to lead four scorers in double figures for St. Benedict's, which amassed a 37-17 halftime lead over the school from Washington, D.C. in Newark. Tamir Jackson chipped in 17 points, Zack Rosen had 12 and Corey Stokes added 10 for St. Benedict's, which will likely be ranked No. 1 nationally by USA Today next following top-ranked Oak Hill Academy's loss to Simeon of Chicago.'

1/19/07 Jimmy Salmon: 'The 2007 "8 is Enough" league schedule has been revised effective immediately. This weekend's games (January 20th) have been changed as well. Please disregard all prior schedules and check our web site for the updated posting @ http://www.playazbasketball.org/. Thanks for your anticipated cooperation and we apologize for any inconvenience caused because of the changes.'

1/19/07 Coach Mccloud: 'Wyandanch defeated Southampton 76 to 55 in a league 7 match up Thursday night. Cameron Barber had another double night with 21 points and ten rebounds he also added 8 assists his brother chris also had 21 pts. But the story was great team defense the Wwarriors held Southhampton to only 5 points in the first quarter led by junoir gaurd James Freeman. Wyandanch moves to 6-0 in league play for first place and Southampton moves to 4-2 for second place in league 7. '

1/18/07 HoopsUSA Consensus Ratings 4. St. Patrick - Elizabeth, NJ 11-1, 9. St. Anthony - Jersey City, NJ  11-0, 12. Mount Vernon - Mount Vernon, NY 9-0, 14. Rice - Manhattan, NY 12-2, 15. Boys and Girls - Brooklyn, NY 18-0, 28. Christ The King - Middle Village, NY 11-2, 35. Seton Hall Prep - West Orange, NJ 10-0, 81. Linden - Linden, NJ 9-0.

1/18/07 Jersey Journal: St. Anthony wins battle - St anthony 61, Bellaire (Texas) 52.

1/18/07 North Jersey: Paterson native commits to Pitt - Travon Woodall.

1/18/07 Daily News: You must trust in a system. Thanks to PSAL divisional realignment, Adams is championship contender.

About more than ball. Monroe Campus basketball tournament brings MLK's legacy to light.

Hall of an honor for Molloy's Coach Curran.

1/18/07 Paul Suber: 'This past weekend Tim Miller hosted "The US Elite Basketball Camp" at Baylor University in Waco, Tx. The camp featured some of the best 6th, 7th and 8th grade talent from around the country. The NY-NJ areas was well represented by 10 very skilled and hard working young men. In the 8th grade division (2011 class) nationally ranked #1 player Davontay Grace, Najee Whitehead, Chris Gayot, #10 Tavon Sledge. In the 7th grade (2012 Class) LeBrent Walker ranked #1 player at the camp, Da'Shawn Suber ranked #5 at the camp, shared MVP honors in the All Star game with NJ's Kyle Anderson #9, and Dontay Payne #6 ranked player was a monster all weekend. In the 6th grade (2013 Class) Rashad "Ra-Ra" Moddy and Jordan Smart played excellent and were rated very high at the camps end. It was a very exciting camp, and the competition was amazing, the kids also got chance to see the Baylor vs. Texas Tech (Bobby Knight) game live, during the afternoon break from camp. I would like to thank Tim Miller, family and staff for putting on an excellent well organized, competitive camp.'

1/17/07 USA Today Super 25 lists 2. St. Benedict's, Newark, N.J. (15-0). Result: Beat Monmouth Academy 93-50, Prep Charter (Philadelphia) 81-73 and Towson (Md.) Catholic 79-76 at Spalding HoopHall Classic in Springfield, Mass. 4. St. Anthony, Jersey City (11-0). Result: Beat Life Center (Burlington) 81-47, St. Joseph (Metuchen) 77-44 and Monmouth Regional (Tinton Falls) 93-42. 6. St. Patrick, Elizabeth, N.J. (10-1). Result: Beat East Orange 74-59 and Blair Academy (Blairstown) 64-45.  13. Mount Vernon, N.Y. (9-0). Result: Beat Mamaroneck 73-40 and White Plains 91-68. 18. Rice, Manhattan, N.Y. (13-2). Result: Beat then-No. 14 Simeon (Chicago) 53-51 at Nike Super Six Invitational in New York. 19. Christ the King, Queens,N.Y. (11-2). Result: Beat Wings Academy (Bronx) 74-63 at Nike Super Six and Archbishop Molloy (Queens) 45-44. Lost to Holy Cross (Queens) 74-70.

1/17/07 NJO: 'Seton Hall Prep 65 (11-0-0), Randolph 39 (6-4-0). Alan Buzbee tossed in eight of his 13 points in the first quarter and Gary Wallace followed with six of his 16 in the second, directing No. 4 Seton Hall Prep to a 27-17 halftime lead in West Orange. Jason Banzhaf assisted Seton Hall's cause with 14 points and six rebounds. Zach Feinberg had nine points for Randolph.

St. Augustine 80 (10-1-0), Buena 52 (2-8-0). Gene Teague totaled 16 points and 10 rebounds for St. Augustine, No. 15 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, which opened with a 22-13 burst in Buena. Mike Ney had 20 points, including five 3-pointers, for Buena.

1/17/07 NY Insider: Rice Upends Niagara Falls HS.

1/17/07 Metro Hoops: Freedom Fighters Challenge Recap.

1/17/07 St. Raymond's took 6th place at the 23rd Annual Bass Pro Tournament of Champions over the weekend.

1/17/07 Coach Tom Sampogna: 'Last night at Hunter College there was tons of NY talent played in the ND Prep-Laurinburg Prep game. The game was packed to watch the likes of Michael Beasley (ND Prep-Kansas St.). ND rolled past L'Burg 103-82. Playing well and earning Most Oustanding performer for L'Burg was former Port Chester star PG, Melvin Calhoun, who went for 17 pts, 7 assits, 4 steals and 4 rebs in the game. Also playing well was former St Mary's G Akeem Bennett (13 pts), former Rice player Will Pratt (13 pts). Tyrell Lynch (Niagara Falls,  Auburn) dropped in 14. Beasely controled the game from start to finished and ended with 26 and MVP honors for the game. Congrats to the Big Appple Basketball people for running an outstanding event. Congrats to all the players who played hard throughout the weekend.'

1/17/07 Willie Negron, Director Of Operations: 'Monroe Campus 60 Clinton 39. Monroe Campus overall is 9-9 and 5-7 in the AA Division. Next game is Jan 19 at Monroe Campus vs first place Wadleigh 9-2, time 5pm. High scorer for Monroe Campus is soph guard Dennis Hawkins had 19 points. His teammate junior forward Marcus Razor had 20 points. Clinton senior guard Kadeem Hasting finished with 16 points.'

1/16/07 National Prep Basketball Poll - Week 8 includes 5. Newark, N.J., St. Benedict's 15-0 beat regionally ranked Towson Catholic at HoopHall Classic in Springfield, Mass. 6. Elizabeth, N.J., St. Patrick 11-1 only loss to No. 9 DeMatha, 15. Mount Vernon, N.Y. 9-0 whipped state-ranked White Plains, 91-68,  21. Jersey City, N.J., St. Anthony 11-0 junior F A.J. Rodgers committed to Saint Joseph's, 22. Brooklyn, N.Y., Boys & Girls 18-0 lone unbeaten squad in NYC & 23. New York, N.Y., Rice 12-2 defending NYC Catholic champ.

1/16/07 Daily News: Raiders keep their guard up.

1/16/07 NJO: Bloomfield Tech 60 (10-1-0), Paramus Catholic 47 (4-8-0). Rashon Dwight tossed in 12 of his 19 points in the first half as Bloomfield Tech, No. 5 in The Star-Ledger, built a 26-17 advantage at the Freedom Fighters Challenge in Paterson. Paramus Catholic used a 14-2 run midway through the third quarter, with five points from Wayne Mack, to get to within 35-33 with 2:46 left in the period. Bloomfield Tech responded by running off the next eight points, six from Richard Hall, and the margin remained in double digits over the final seven minutes. Wesley Jenkins added 17 points for Bloomfield Tech while freshman Aaron Brown led Paramus Catholic with 15.

St. Anthony 61 (12-0-0), Bellaire (Tex.) 52 (13-7-0). Mike Rosario tossed in a team-leading 22 points, including six-of-eight 3-point attempts, to power St. Anthony, No. 1 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, to its 12th straight victory in the Hoophall Classic in Springfield, Mass.

St. Patrick's 63 (11-1-0), Fair Fax (CA) 60 (10-4-0). Jeff Robinson hit for 13 of his 22 points in the second half and rallied St. Patrick's, No. 2 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, to a 63-60 victory over Fairfax of Los Angeles at the Hall of Fame Games in Springfield, Mass. It was the fifth consecutive victory for the Elizabeth school, which entered the game ranked No. 6 nationally by USA Today. Fairfax is No. 20.

St. Patrick's moved into the second half trailing, 32-28, but then benefited from Robinson's athletic play, both in the lane and along the perimeter. The 6-6 senior, bound for Memphis, also finished with five rebounds. Senior guard Corey Fisher was held to a season-low 12 points, but junior guard Jermel Jenkins was just one point off his season high with 11 for St. Patrick's.'

1/16/07 Dave Carter - Results from Sunday at the Big Apple Basketball Invitational.  Jefferson (Brooklyn) blasted Our Savior Lutheran (Bronx) 67-46. It was close at the half, but Jeff broke open a 29-23 lead and coasted to victory behind 25 points from super sophomore Keith Spellman. The second game between St. Thomas More (CT) and Blair (NJ) was close throughout, but STM who trailed by one at the half, went on to win 63-55. Blair's Alexis Wangmene was the day's most impressive performer and finished 28 points and 12 rebounds (Sportsmanship Award), while STM's MVP, Steven Brown had 15 points in 17 minutes. Hun (NJ) broke open a five point lead after three quarters and defeated Champlain St. Lambert (Montreal) 50-37. MVP was Douglas Davis (14 points). Newark East Side (NJ) rebounded from a down performance on Saturday and capped a 50-35 victory over St. Dominic's (L.I.). Rutgers bound, Corey Chandler led all scorers with 26 and earned MVP honors. After being tied at 13-13 after the first quarter, the last game of the day between Cardozo (Queens) and Niagara Falls (NY) wasn't much of a contest. Syracuse bound Johnny Flynn was too much to handle for the Judges as he dominated with 23 points and set a Big Apple Basketball Invitational record with 11 assists. Complete info. at www.bigapplebasketball.com/hsinvitational.html.'

1/16/07 RJ - 1000.

1/16/07 North Jersey: Paramus Catholic youth learn on fly.

1/16/07 Coach Bruce Harris: 'Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities Center announces the 2nd annual top 40 8th grade boys all-star basketball classic. The games will be played on February 10, starting at 10am at Elmcor Louis Armstrong Center, 33-16 108th Street & Northern Blvd. Corona , Queens. Boys try-outs are open to all tri-state area 8th graders who will be graudating in June 2007 . Try-outs are on Tuseday January 16, 7pm until 9pm both days & Wednesday January 17. All area high school coaches are welcome. Admission for adults is $5 and kids $2. Ffor more info.contact Coach William Mayers 718-651-0096 ext.238 or Gill Summers 917-975-4900 or me 917-417-8610.'

1/15/07 Daily News: Rice cooks up upset. Royals' Malik Boothe finds he's right at home in Garden.

1/15/07 NY Post: Minute Rice - Raiders rise in Super 6 final ticks.

1/15/07 Thomas (Tippy) McTernan: 'Two competitive and exciting contests featuring top eighth-graders from around the city highlighted the annual Real Scout/Abyssinian All-Star Doubleheader at the Kennedy Center in Harlem. In the opening contest, the Gold Squad received 22 points from Gerard Carty (St. Charles, Gauchos) and outlasted the Brown Squad 48-43 in overtime. The winners also got a solid 14-point, 6-rebound, 5-assist effort from Kevin Perez (M.S. 45, Gauchos) and 4 points with 6 boards from Vernon Rose (M.S. 301). The Brown unit was led by Nahun Nunez (P.S. 189, Metro Hawks) with 14 points (including 2 clutch free throws with :04 left to force overtime), Mylique Owens (Community Action, Abyssinian) with 10 points and 6 rebounds, and Terrence Robinson (M.S. 258, Visitation Hawks) with 9 rebounds.

In the nitecap, Jevaune Dawson (MS 256, Abyssinian) put back a missed shot with a second remaining to lift the Blue Squad to a 44-43 decision over the White Squad. Perez sparked a late comeback rally by the White Squad with a three-pointer and layup and Josh Bernardez (M.S. 301, Bingo’s) put White ahead on a driving layup before Dawson’s answered with his game-winner for the Blue. Bernardez led all scorers with 14 points and 6 rebounds while Perez added 9 points for the White team. Sidiki Johnson (M.S. 256, Abyssinian) topped the Blue team with 11 points and a game-high 9 rebounds while Dawson was next with 10 points and Carty had 8 points.Other talented standouts in the doubleheader were Dante Agnew (J.H.S. 231, Pro-Response Pythons), Elloheim Miller (Sage J.H.S.), Andrew Williams (I.S. 239, Brooklyn Patriots), and 6-2 Achraf Yacoubou (M.S. 201, Bingo’s).'

1/15/07 Vinny Kabus: 'Talk about "better late than never", this  would apply to Mike Cavataio. Last Spring I wrote about Mike Cavataio, as well as Mike Sands (Carey HS) and Nick Hendra (Xavier HS), as the best under-recruited or unknown players. Since then, Mike Sands and Hendra have committed to Yale and American Universities repectively. But Mike Cavataio continued to go under the radar. It baffled me that the local schools have been slow to show anything more than mild interest. But how times have changed. Mike's play of late has been very impressive to say the least. Mike has now been offerd scholarships by Hofstra, Lehigh, Boston U and Manhattan College for certain with other schools getting in on the scene as well. I always knew Mike was to good of an athlete, scorer, playmaker and defender to go unoticed forever. I'm just suprised it took so long.'

1/15/07 Ben Asher: 'I wanted to take this opportunity to update you on the game on one of the better seniors in the area. 6’7” combo forward Quincy Hankins has been on a tear as of late. After sitting out his junior year due to academics, he has come back strong and made the most of his 2nd opportunity. He is proving he is one of the top players not only on Long Island but in the state . Yesterday his Roosevelt Roughriders upset Westbury H.S 72-69. Quincy led the way with 31 points, 14 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Over Roosevelt’s last 4 games Quincy has averaged exactly 28 points and 15 rebounds. Over the stretch his Roosevelt team compiled a 3-1 record and all 3 of the wins would be classified as “upsets”. Expectations weren’t high for the team coming into the year, but Hankins has transformed Roosevelt into a legitimate contender come playoff time. Quincy is currently a senior and member of the class of 2007 however he skipped the 2nd grade and he is still just 16 years old. After this year he will be headed to a prep school and reclassifying into the class of 2008, his original class. Despite not much publicity with his high school team, Quincy has managed to gauge the interest of many big time schools on the AAU circuit. He has received interest from schools like North Carolina , Providence , Drexel, and Marquette . With an additional year to work on gaining some muscle and polishing his game, it’s not farfetched to think Quincy may end up in a major conference like the Big East. Keep an eye out for him.'

1/14/07 NY Post: Malcolm Grant returns - empathizes with Robeson plight.

1/14/07 Daily News: Derrick Rose in the Garden. Chicago phenom faces Rice at 'Mecca' today.

1/14/07 NJ Hoops Super Six is 1. St. Benedict's High School (13-0),  2. St. Patrick's (9-1),  3. St. Anthony's (9-0),  4. Seton Hall Prep (9-0), 5. Linden (8-0) and 6. St. Benedict's Prep (4-2).

1/14/07 Dave Carter: 'Results from Saturday at the BIg Apple Basketball Invitational. Champlain St. Lambert (Montreal) defeated Our Saviour Lutheran (Bronx) 53-50; Winchendon (Ma) got by Laurinburg (NC) 81-70. Malcolm Grant had 18 points in 31 minutes for Winchendon. Holy Cross crushed San Diego 66-49. MVP Sylven Landesburg had 24 points and 11 rebounds, while super 6'10 frosh James Tyler from San Diego posted 25 points and 16 rebounds. Canarsie beat Newark East Side 58-48 and got a strong performance from Nathaniel Lester with 24 points, while holding East Side star Corey Chandler (Rutgers) to 14 points. South Kent blew a 17 point lead in the 2nd half and St. Benedict's pulled off at late game surge to win 88-80 in overtime. St. Benedict's players Chris Smith (24), Rashad Bishop (21) and Jabari Edwards (20) led the way, while South Kent point guard Isaiah Thomas (29 points) who is headed to Washington looked impressive. In the finale, Arlington Country Day (Jacksonville, Florida) squeaked by Cardozo 69-66. Cardozo mounted a last minute comeback to take the lead with under 2 minutes in the regulation, but couldn't pull off the comeback victory. Trinity Fields played well in defeat with 21 points.

More games on tap for Sunday at Baruch College with OSL/Jefferson, St. Thomas More/Blair, Champlain St. Lambert/Hun, Newark East Side/St. Dominic's and Niagara Falls/Cardozo. Complete info. at www.bigapplebasketball.com/hsinvitational.html.

1/14/07 NY Insider: Nick Hendra Has Monster Game.

1/14/07 Coach Jones: 'The Dragons of HSMSE were back in action in a non-league game against Marta Valle HS. with a 60-46 win. The were led by Sam Porte with 32 points and 18 rebounds. Porte is being recruited by several east coast division 2 & 3 schools such as Queens College, Stone Hill, Adelph, NYU, Stevens, Oswego, Regis, and Molley College. Porte is one of the most underrated players in the PSAL.'

1/14/07 Coach Kenneth McCloud, Wyandanch High School: 'Chris Barber led Wyandanch with 30 pts and 10 assists, while his brother Cameron had his first career triple double with 15 pts, 18 reb, and 10 assists. The tenacious defense of Wyandanch held Mattituk to only 2 pts in the first quarter, for a 18-2 first quarter. The Warriors went on to win 82-55. Wyandanch is in 4-0 in League 7.'

1/13/07 PSAL.org: 40 committeed Division I student-athletes in this weekend's Big Apple Basketball Invitational.

1/13/07 Journal News: Four senior surprises give Mount Vernon a boost -- Woody Eliezer, Marcquis Abney, Malik Taylor & Kortney Parker.

1/13/07 HSSM News: Christ the King (NY) rebounds against Ranier Beach (WA). Linden draws first blood against Plainfield.

1/13/07 NY Insider: Scott Machado Having Solid Junior Year.  Long Island Junior Guard Has College Interest - Bryon Freeman. St. Mary's Forward Having Solid Senior Season -- Marcos Tamares.

1/13/07 NJO: 'Seton Hall Prep 73 (10-0-0), West Morris 25 (3-8-0). Ashton Gibbs dropped in 10 of his 20 points in the first quarter and led No. 4 Seton Hall Prep to a 21-3 bulge in Long Valley. The junior guard, who has averaged 22.7 points in his last three games, also collected five assists and three steals. Jason Banzhaf recorded 12 points and 11 rebounds and Gary Wallace came up with 11 points, eight rebounds and four assists in the victory. Matt Sysock and Matt Wehrhahn each scored seven points for West Morris.'

1/13/07 NJ Hoops: Battle on the Boardwalk.

1/13/07 Bass Pro Basketball Tournament: St. Louis (Mo.) Vashon (11-3) - 76, St. Raymond's (8-5) - 68.

1/13/07 Coach Mike Francis: 'When you think of St Edmunds Prep High School you usualy dont think of basketball but this year St Edmunds freshmen recruiting class was talented and they proved that last night as St Edmunds Prep hosted Bishop Loughlin. Loughlin won this game but it was a battle. Loughlin's bench was much dteeper yesterday which can only mean one thing that they have their players back including top 10 frosh in the city, Bryant Frederick out due to injury. Bryant was not going to be stopped. In the first quarter we had a little 1on1 battle with Edmund's Bobby Beldo. At the half Loughlin led 33-30  With 3 minutes remaining Beldo fouled out and Bryant Frederick just abused the rest of the St Edmunds guards scorig at will and finding open teamates such as Mark York who contributed on both sides of the floor as Bishop Loughlin defeated St Edmunds Prep 64-55. Bryant Frederick led all scorers with 25 and Mark York chipped in with 16 for the Lions while Beldo led St Edmunds with 20 followed by Vinny Marchiano with 17.'

1/13/07 J Mattera: 'Take a look at the kid Joab Jerome from Xaverian....I saw him play twice against St. Rays and Rice...He had 19 pts in both games....He also won all tournament team of the Holy Cross tournament.'

1/13/07 Coach Norman Fisher: 'Reach One Teach One Basketball AAU travel teams still have roster spots available in the following age group for boys whose age, grade as of September 2006 were:  10 and Under, 4th grade-born on or after September 01, 1996 Grade exception: a player who is in the fourth grade and who was born on or after September 01, 1995. 12 and under, 6th grade - born on or after September 01, 1994. grade exception: a player who is in the sixth grade and who was born on or after September 01, 1992. 13 and under, 7th grade - born on or after September 01, 1993. Grade exception: a player who is in the Seventh grade and who was born on or after September 01, 1992. 15 and under, 9th grade - born on or after September 01, 1991. Grade exception: a player who is in the ninth grade and who was born on or after September 01, 1990. Also, we are still trying to complete a girls roster for 12 and under.  Date: Tuesdays January 16, 2007. Time: 6:30 - 8:45. Place: Public School 38, 135-21 241st Street, Rosedale, NY 11422.

For information and questions contact me @ (516) 285-4505, Coach Frankie Mickens @ (516) 671-4020, Coach Gene Vignola (718) 772-6405 or Coach Andre Mosley (631) 747-1134 or via the web: www.coachfisher1.com, email: coachfisher1@aol.com, rotobasketball@aol.com.'

1/12/07 Metro Hoops: New Jersey's Best.

1/12/07 NJ Hoops: Battle on the Boardwalk Preview.

1/12/07 NJO: 'Bloomfield Tech 58 (9-1-0), Solomon Schechter 38 (8-2-0). Rashon Dwight scored 21 points and had a strong second half when No. 5 Bloomfield Tech rolled with a 33-11 effort in West Orange. Michael Gorshein had 17 points and six rebounds while Jordan Marcus had nine points for Solomon Schechter.

St. Anthony 77 (10-0-0), St. Joseph (Met.) 44 (7-4-0). Mike Rosario scored 17 points and Tyshawn Taylor added 15 as St. Anthiony, No. 1 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, defeated St. Joseph of Metuchen last night in Metuchen.  Rosario tossed in nine points while Travon Woodall hit for five of his 11 points in the first quyarter as St. Anthony took a 28-11 lead. Freshman Steve Rennard led St. Joseoph with 13 points.

St. Augustine 77 (10-1-0), Sacred Heart 36 (0-9-0). Eugene Teague put in 14 points for St. Augustine, which had a 25-9 second quarter for a 41-21 lead in Vineland. Jarrod Headley put in 15 points for Sacred Heart.'

1/12/07 Dave Carter: 'Holy Cross High School has been added to the already strong field in ths weekend's Big Apple Basketball Invitational, January 13-15.  The Invitational will feature 23 of the top boys high school and prep school teams in the metro area and nationally. There are over 40 Division I commited student-athletes in the event to schools such as Kentucky, Syracuse, Texas, Arizona, St. John's, Villanova, Cincinnati, Rutgers and more, as well as arguably the #1 national senior in Mike Beasley. For the updated schedule and complete event information visit www.bigapplebasketball.com/hsinvitational.html.'

1/12/07 Coach Navro Robinson, Bay Shore High School: 'After being out of action for a 3 week peroid (due to a broken nose) Jordan Murphy returned to the Marauders line-up. Being inspired by Murphy, the Marauders were able to defeat Commack by the score of 73-55. In a limited role, Murphy recorded 7pts, 8 rebs and 3 block shoots. After the game, Murphy stated "It felt good to get back on the court and help my teammates." Also having a good game for the Marauders were Chris Obi (24pts, 5rebs, and 5 asts) and Booker Hucks (17pts,10 rebs). Playing well for Commack was Trevor Dym with 14pts.'

1/12/07 Bruce Eiber, Boys Director: 'Long Island Lightning AAU tryouts for grades 9-14 will be held this Monday, January 15, at Island Garden Basketball, West Hempstead, New York, beginning at 9:00 AM with Boys 9 & 10 and under. The full tryout schedule is on line at www.islandgarden.com.'

1/11/07 Many thanks to Coach Dre' (Andre Edwards) as the Wyandanch Warriors team profile is now on the team page.

Please send your team profile information to nycnjhoops@yahoo.com. Ideally the information should include coaches' names, key players (both starters and reserves - heights, positions, strengths and weaknesses), any freshmen of note (they don't have to be on the varsity), last season's record, key games (tournament and conference) this season, style of play and any other pertinent data.

1/11/07 Daily News: Huskies take Alternative route. Regional development on right track. The aftermath for Robeson. Royal treatment for the holidays.

1/11/07 SI.com: Next in line.Erving Walker is Christ the King's latest star guard.

1/11/07 NY Insider: Stanners Upend Omari Lawrence, St. Raymond's.

1/11/07 Philly.com: St. Anthony's AJ Rodgers commits to St. Joe's.

1/11/07 Metro Hoops: New Jersey Top 10 -- #1 St. Benedict's and #2 St. Patrick's remain on top.

1/11/07 NJO: 'Blair 70 (10-3-0), Hun 57 (9-4-0). Alexis Wangmene scored 19 points and Julius Coles added 15 in Princeton as Blair defeated Hun for the second time this season. Doug Davis and Lance Goulbourne scored 14 points apiece for Hun, with Will Martell chipping in 12 points and eight rebounds.

St. Benedict's Prep 70 (4-2-0), Lawrenceville 53 (8-4-0). Chris Smith scored 20 points and Rashad Bishop added 19 as St. Benedict's Prep pulled away midway throught the fourth quarter in Newark. St. Benedict's Prep led, 51-49, with five minutes to play when Ryan Bacon, whose two blocked shots sparked a 10-0, second-quarter spurt, scored all six of his points in an 8-0 run to take the lead back to double figures. Porter Braswell scored 17 of his team-leading 19 points after halftime and also dealt out seven assists for Lawrenceville. Jabari Edwards contributed 12 points, 11 rebounds and three blocks for St. Benedict's Prep.

St. Patrick's 74 (10-1-0), East Orange 59 (2-6-0). Corey Fisher scored 11 of his 28 points during a 21-10 first-quarter effort for St. Patrick's in East Orange. Jeff Robinson added 19 points for St. Pat's, which led 62-34 after three quarters. Ali Mix led East Orange with 20 points and Hakeem Cunningham added 18 points and six assists.'

1/11/07 Jersey Journal: Dan Finn Classic on Jan. 20.

1/11/07 Coach Navro Robinson: 'Bay Shore Marauders survive to win its 8th game in a row. In a highly anticipated clash, Bay Shore and Walt Whitman played a game for the ages. With the Marauders trailing by 1 with one second on the clock, Ryun Hook inbounded the ball to a wide open Orayne McEachron for a lay up as time expired giving the Marauders a 53-52 win over Whitman. Playing well for the Marauders was Booker Hucks (25 pts and 12 rebounds), Chris Obi (14pts, 7 rebs, 3 steals and 4 assists), and Orayne McEachron (10 pts and 10 rebounds).'

1/11/07 St Ray's in Missouri tournament this weekend.

1/11/07 Wayne Crawford, Newtown Pioneers varsity co-coach: 'I wanted to take this opportunity to let the NYC basketball world know about the wealth of quality guards in the Queens single “A” division. It is truly a pleasure watching these young men play, so I wanted to take an opportunity to highlight a few of them: Michael Bruce (John Bowne), Charles Williams (Grover Cleveland), Stephon Hodges (Thomas Edison), Tyriq Harrington (Forest Hills), Armell Hogan (Hillcrest), and Newtown ’s own trio Vere Deloach, David Joseph, and Isiah Lee. NYC has produced so many talented guards, and these young men are continuing that tradition. It is a real treat to watch, so if you have an opportunity to see one of these young men, take it, you won’t be disappointed. After each and every game, I come away impressed by the level of guard play, and I feel many of them will excel at the next level.'

1/11/07 Coach D Jones: 'The High School For Math, Sci, & Eng. Dragons were in action against league rival A. P. Randolph at home. The Dragons got pay back for a loss to Randolph in the beginning of the season with a 55-46 win stopping a five game losing streak. The Dragons were led by their big three Sam Porte with 21 points and 15 rebounds, Antonio Upia 7 points and rebounds and Sterling Clark with 13 rebounds. Also Jose Dilone and Max Terino chipped in with 10 points apiece.'

1/10/07 Many thanks to coach Navro Robinson as the Bay Shore High School team profile is now on the team page.

1/10/07 Journal News: Mt Vernon Knights keep climbing.

1/10/07 NJ Hoops: Linden Makes a Statement.

1/10/07 NJO: 'Seton Hall Prep 77 (9-0-0), Mount Olive 36 (3-3-0). Ashton Gibbs scored 12 of his 21 points in an 18-4 first quarter for No. 4 Seton Hall Prep in West Orange. The junior guard also made five steals. Jimmy Burke added nine of his 12 points in the second period when the lead expanded to 46-12. Russell Holloway had 12 points and Brady Council 11 for Mount Olive.'

1/10/07 North Jersey: Tough life brightens in Fort Lee -- Xavier McAden.

1/10/07 NY Insider: New Yorker Anthony Gill Impresses His Prep Coach.  Bronx Native, Greg Avila,  Polishing His Game Up North

1/10/07 Anthony Nicodemo: 'The 2007 Westchester Elite Winter Hardwood Classic took place this past weekend at Pace University in Westchester County. The highlight of the weekend was ESPN #4 ranked Mater Dei, CA playing White Plains. The Tigers gave the Monarchs all they could handle, but suffered a 80-75 setback. MOP honors went to Kamyron Brown (Oregon) who scored 16 points and 7 assists in the win. Duke signee Taylor King scored 23 points and 12 rebounds for Mater Dei. White Plains was led by Sean Kilpatrick's 22 points while Rishawn Johnson had a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. The contest was tremendous with White Plains leading 57-56 heading into the final period, but Mater Dei was able to make big shots down the stretch to secure the win.

In other games Newburgh defeated Peekskill 76-65 behind Jeff Ryan's (Longwood) 29 points and 9 rebounds. Peekskill's Mookie Jones dropped 30 points in the loss. Ossining had a big win over Stepinac, 70-68 and New Rochelle knocked off Spring Valley, 64-61. For complete results and stats go to www.westchesterelite.com.'

1/10/07 Coach Dre', Team Underrated: 'A player that needs to be mentioned as a special player is 6'2 junior Cameron Barber of Wyandanch High School, this player is averaging 24 points, 18 rebounds, 7 assist, and 4 steals per game. Cameron can play from the 1-4 with no problem. Cameron recorded a RimRocker Tournament best 22 rebounds against Samuel Gompers while scoring 31 in the game. The same game his older brother Christopher scored a Tournament record 52 points. Cameron career high is 24 rebounds in 2 1/2 quarters this season.'

1/10/07 Sean Atkins: 'The Boys' Club of New York’s Academic Al-Star team is looking for a few games to round out our schedule, due to some cancellations. We play traditional prep school teams and private schools in the tri-state and new england area. We have already played games against teams such as South Kent, Our Savior New American, Northfield Mount Hermon, Worcester Academy , Hun School and Trinity-Pawling. Any schools that are interested please contact me at 646-302-8039, 212-677-1108 ext. 1152, or email satkins@admin.bcny.org.'

1/8/07 Daily News: Chris Fouch takes spotlight as Rice routs St. Ray's.

1/8/07 NY Post: Rice slices St Raymond's.

1/8/07 NJO: St. Anthony overpowers Bergen Catholic.

1/8/07 NJO: Seton Hall Prep 67 (8-0-0), Hackensack 56 (5-3-0).

1/8/07 North Jersey: Paramus C. starts to jell - outran, outdefended and outplayed No. 3 Paterson Catholic, 72-55.

1/8/07 Poughkeepsie Journal:  Poughkeepsie earns win. Late run gives Pioneers edge 62-50 over All Hallows.

1/8/07 Coach Tom Sampogna: 'College coaches wondering where former Bronx Regional/ Milford Academy star forward and St Peters commit, 6'9 PF T.J. Stukes is, here you go. TJ is doing great out at Independence CC in Kansas this year, averaging 12ppg and 9 rpg with 3 bpg as a freshmen. TJ has re-opened his recruiting since the summer and now tells me that he has several Big East, Big 12 and WAC schools looking at him. Coaches, get on him now, because this kid is a manchild who can start for you now. Best of luck to TJ the rest of the way this year.

Also doing well is former Port Chester SF 6'4 Jeremy Thomas up at Fulton-Montgomery CC. J Thomas averaged 8 ppg and 8 rpg his freshman year. He is redshirting this year due to back injury. He will look to jump to a 4 year school at the end of this year. Other notables are Sleepy Hollow's Pat Crean who is starting for Springfield College as a freshman, Fox Lane PG Mike Tomassi is sitting out this year at Springfield due to a torn bicep.'

1/8/07 B.J. Robinson: 'New Team on the Block, L.I. Elite defeated NYC Panthers by a score of 50 to 41 in the Island Garden Holiday Festival, Division 8-1. Before facing the Panthers, Elite overcame Rising Stars, Visitation Hawks and Riverside Hawks. Coach Pat White would like to congratulate all his hard working players: P.J. White, Sheldon Hagigal, Wade Richardson, Miles Jones, P.J. Page, Brian Jimenez, Jordan Awayo, Chris Cox, Khalif Chaplin and Jake Lemendez.'

1/7/07 Daily News: A celebration of life. Art & Design pays tribute to a lost teammate, Luis Seda.

1/7/07 NJO: St. Benedict's 85 (12-0-0), Paterson Catholic 57 (4-3-0).

1/7/07 NJ Hoops: Favorites Prevail at Seton Hall --St Benedict, St Patrick & St Anthony.

1/7/07 NJO: 'Bloomfield Tech 76 (8-1-0), Newark Academy 46 (0-0-0). Wesley Jenkins hit four 3-pointers and had 14 of his 24 points in the first quarter as No. 5 Bloomfield Tech claimed a 28-12 lead in Livingston. The senior guard had a season-high six 3-pointers in the game. Rashon Dwight scored eight of his 10 points in the opening half for Bloomfield Tech. Teammate Troy Webster finished with 12 points. Newark Academy received 22 poins from Mike Cutri.

Linden 80 (7-0-0), Shabazz 64 (2-6-0). Muhammad Wilkerson scored 20 points and Desmond Wade set a single-game school record with 18 assists for No. 3 and unbeaten Linden in Linden. Wade, a junior point guard, had been tied with former Linden star and current coach Dan DelValle at 17. Wade had 17 assists as a freshman. Wilkerson pulled down 14 rebounds and teammate George Bease had 10 points and seven rebounds. Shabazz got 20 points from Marquis Simmons and 15 from Da'Shon Barrino.

St. Anthony 73 (8-0-0), Bergen Catholic 35 (6-2-0). Juniors guards Travon Woodall and Mike Rosario scored 13 points apiece and sophomore Dominic Cheek added 12 for St. Anthony, No. 1 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, at the Scholarship Fund for Inner-City Children basketball festival in South Orange. Chris Gaston contributed the first four points and Woodall had the last five of a 12-0 run that began with St. Anthony leading, 23-15, with 2:34 to play in the first half and ended with the Jersey City school holding a 35-15 edge six seconds into the third quarter.

St. Patrick's 70 (8-1-0), Living Faith 55 (9-4-0). Jeff Robinson posted game-high totals of 20 points and eight rebounds for St. Patrick's, No. 2 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, at the Scholarship Fund for Inner-City Children festival in South Orange. The senior forward had eight points and five rebounds in the second quarter as St. Patrick's assumed a 37-24 halftime advantage. He added nine points in the third quarter, including two dunks off alley-oop passes and a third on a double-pump reverse jam, as St. Patrick's extended its lead to 54-32. Corey Fisher contributed 16 points and six assists to St. Patrick's.

Jonathan Edwards and Karron McKenzie scored 13 points apiece for Living Faith while its 6-11, 320-pound, junior center, Melvyn Oliver, added 10 points.'

1/7/07 Coach Carlton Screen (FYA): 'It was a long and energy draining week at the Brownsville Recreation Center in Brooklyn. The Christmas Basketball Tournament 2006, in honoring Mr.Irving Falk, East New York's Community Coach. All the 30 plus teams, came to play every day, it was a great tournament to watch some of the best players in the city was on the court. I'm sorry that I couldn't give you a day by day account of the games, my computer was down last week. On Saturday in the championships. BYA defeated FYA in the 12U division by the score of 49 - 36. FYA couldn't find a way to stop Rachard Moody from scoring at will and passing to his teammates for easy baskets. In the 15U division it was The Hill over Aneesa Sports by the score of 75 - 66, it was a great team effort, they played great basketball together. From Greg "Jocko" Jackson, Forest City Ratner Companies, and me, we want to thank all the teams and coaches that participated in the tournament. I wish for all the people in basketball a happy and healthy New Year.'

1/7/07 D.Kirkpatrick: 'Paul Scotland is playing well at Urban Peace Academy. Paul put 51 pts,12 steals, 6asst Friday night against Truman High School in the Bronx.'

1/6/07 Daily News: Erving Walker, CK win in OT.

1/6/07 NY Post: Robeson - Let us play, PSAL.

1/6/07 NY Insider Profile: Bishop Loughlin's Marcus Matthews.

1/6/07 Jersey Journal: Friars to play in hoop fest at Seton Hall.

1/6/07 NJ Hoops Super Six is 1. St. Benedict's High School (11-0), 2. St. Patrick's (6-1), 3. St. Anthony's (7-0), 4. Seton Hall Prep (6-0), 5. Linden (6-0) & 6. St. Benedict's Prep (3-2).

1/6/07 NJO: Bloomfield Tech 68 (7-1-0), Somerset Tech 37 (4-2-0). Richard Hall hit for 14 of his 15 points and Rashon Dwight for all 13 of his during the first half when No. 5 Bloomfield Tech, built a 44-21 cushion in Bridgewater. Chris Morris contributed 12 points to the victory. Robert Wilson led Somerset Tech with 13 points.

1/6/07 Courier Post Online: Trip helps St. Augustine come together as a team.

1/6/07 Jersey Journal: Friars make it look easy - St Anthony 82, Morris Catholic 28.

1/4/07 Coach Wayne Crawford, Newtown High School: 'I wanted to take a moment to let everyone know about a terrible tragedy that occurred on Thursday, December 28. A wonderful young man by the name of Luis Seda was hit by a car and killed. Luis was just 18 years old and was completing his senior year at Art & Design HS in Manhattan . I first met Luis 3 years ago when I took my first head basketball coaching job at Art & Design HS. He was a young sophomore then, and over the past several year I had and opportunity to watch him mature into a wonderful young man. Luis was truly special. He was always one to greet you with a big smile and a hug. He possessed an infectious personality that made you love him. He had a passion for life and basketball that can not be taught. He was the type of young man that anyone would love to coach. His loyalty, dedication, and enthusiasm were unquestionable. He truly was an absolute pleasure to be around. On the court Luis was a terror who never backed down from a challenge. He played every game like it was his last with unbridled enthusiasm & emotion. The greatest compliment I can give Luis is that I hope some day my two sons possess the qualities he did. Luis will always hold a special place in my heart. I send my prayers out to his teammates, friends, and family.'

1/4/07 HSSM News: St. Patrick (NJ) nips Norcross (GA). Christ the King (NY) comes up short against Kingwood (TX).Norcross (GA) dunks Rice (NY). St. Patrick Trips Up Alief Hastings. Lampley sinks Paterson Catholic (NJ).

1/4/07 NJO: Blair 62 (8-2-0), Malvern Academy, Pa. 45 (0-0-0). Justin Robinson scored 14 points while Alexis Wangmene had 13 and each scored five points in a 21-9 fourth quarter that enabled Blair (8-2) to turn a five-point lead into a 17-point victory in Malvern, Pa. Pat Hazel also had 13 points for Blair.

Bloomfield Tech 75 (6-1-0), Newark Tech 32 (3-4-0). Rashon Dwight scored 16 points with Wesley Jenkins and Troy Webster contributing 15 apiece as Bloomfield Tech, No. 5 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, rolled after exploding for 32 points in the first quarter. Bloomfield Tech led, 10-0, before Newark Tech managed to get off a field-goal attempt, and jumped to a 25-2 lead less than five minutes into the contest as Webster scored 11 points with three 3-pointers. Muhammad Sadru-din paced Newark Tech with 12 points.

St. Benedict's 87 (11-0-0), Our Savior (NY) 33 (0-13-0). Corey Stokes drained five 3-pointers in scoring 21 points with five rebounds and five assists while Samardo Samuels delivered 17 points, nine rebounds and three blocks for St. Benedict's in Newark. Zack Rosen added 12 points and Mark Robertson 11 for St. Benedict's, which committed just four turnovers and controlled the boards by a 43-42 margin despite the New York school having five players at 6-10 or taller.

St. Patrick's 68 (7-1-0), Trenton Catholic 42 (5-2-0). Corey Fisher had 27 points, Jeff Robinson 21 and Dexter Strickland 13 for St. Patrick's in Hamilton. Keith Jones had 19 points for Trenton Catholic, which led, 13-12, after the first quarter.

1/4/07 NY Insider: Christ The King Forward Has New List - Andrew Gabriel. Profile Xaverian's Brandon Romain. Profile Campus Magnet's Malachi Peay.

1/3/07 Newsday: Lance Stephenson.

1/3/07 NJO: Seton Hall Prep make most of trip.

1/3/07 North Jersey: Hackensack's Justis Oliver brings home the title.

1/3/07 Metro Hoops: North Jersey Underclassman: Who's Making Noise? Justin Crosgile, Lance Brown, Karon Abraham, Maynard Freeman & Justice Oliver.

1/3/07 NY Insider: Andrew Gabriel A Player To Watch This Season. Ryan Pearson Ready To Attract D-1 Attention.

1/3/07 Martin J Hogarty: 'OLA Christmas Tourament - I would like to congratulate St. Francis Xavier on winning the championship during the Holiday week. SFX  defeated St Johns to advance to the semis where they defeated St Lucy's to get to the championship game where they defeated OLA. SFX was led by Kenny Hogarty, Nick Sedia, Joe Paulus, and Diego Martinez. Congratulations to Coach Musto.'

1/3/07 Ovell Levine: 'I'im a forward and I play for Norman Thomas High School. I am writing to give my respects and say I'm deeply saddened over the death of Luis Seda, the leading scorer from the Art & Design varsity basketball team. He died over the Christmas vacation. I played against him a lot of times and we had our rivalries on the court but he was a good person  I really didn't know him well but we talked a lot on the court. From all of us at Norman Thomas we wish the team and family the best.'

1/3/07 Coach Tom Sampogna: 'In a battle of the Westchester Class of 2005, former New Rochelle star, Geoff McDermott squared off with former Woodlands star, Kirk Williams as host Providence beat Longwood 107-69. McDermott went for 14pts, 6 rebs and 3 assts and Kirk played him practically even with with 12 pts, 5 rebs and 3 assts. Also playing well was former Milford Academy star, 6'8 frosh. Billy Robinson, who chipped in 11pts off the bench. Kirk and the rest of the Longwood team will played next at Yale on Saturday at 2pm while Geoff plays host to Marquette on Thursday night. Good luck to the boys from Westchester the rest of the way.'

1/2/07 National Prep Basketball Poll - Week 6 includes # 6. Newark, N.J., St. Benedict's 10-0 won GlaxoSmithKline Holiday Invitational in Raleigh, N.C. # 7. Elizabeth, N.J., St. Patrick 6-1 only loss to No. 5 DeMatha in Academy National final, 12. Queens, N.Y., Christ the King 6-1 only loss to No. 11 Kingwood, # 16. Mount Vernon, N.Y. 7-0 won Bojangles Shootout in Charlotte, N.C.

1/2/07 Coach Mike T.Francis: 'In the race for the CHSAA. championship the varsity AA Ravens of St Rays look the sharpest right now with Gerald Colds scoring at will and playing clutch. Along with Darryl "Truck" Bryant's abillity to penetrate and find open men they are the team to beat. But the Raiders of Rice dont slack at all with  the premeir guard play in the city in outside threat Chris Fouch and slasher Lamont "MoMo" Jones the Raiders pose a natural threat in the long run.

The freshmen clash for the cup in my eyes is a final 3 including the Royals of CTK on a win streak of 5 straight led by big Rolando Brown who poses trouble on the block. There are few frosh with potential enough to challenge him. Next up we have the Lions of Loughlin who are led by sharp shooter Lance Legister who had to pick up the slack for Bryant Frederick out on injury. But word on the street is he will be making his home debut Friday as the Lions host Brooklyn's Xaverian Clippers. When Lance and Bryant take to the backcourt together for the first time this season it will be something to watch. And last but not least the Ravens of St Raymond. With their varsity one of the top teams in the country this year it puts a lot of pressure on the freshmen but pressure that they have handled very lightly. Led by Christian Forriest and Harold "nothing but net" McBride these young men have proved to be one of the best. But they get ready for a battle on Friday against the Christ the King Royals.'

1/2/07 Coach Eric Rock Eisenberg: 'I wanted to praise a young man I saw play this year for Vic Gjecai and the Midwood Hornets. His name is Stephon Douglas and he is quite a talented young guard. Playing for Coach Gjecai he will only get better and better. I feel some of our local D1's should give him and his fine team a long look. We at Tilden also have a solid D 1 candidate in 6'4" junior swingman Ashton Pascall. Ashton has dropped 30 or more four times and he reminds some of former Grady and current Sacramento Kings guard Quincy Douby, who is starting to get more time according to his mentor and former coach, the legendary Jack Ringle.'

1/2/07 Anthony Nicodemo: 'This weekend the 2007 Westchester Elite Winter Hardwood Classic will take place featuring the best high school action in the tri-state area this season. All games will be played at the Goldstein Center on the campus of Pace University in Pleasantville, NY. On Saturday January 6 a great doubleheader will take place with Mookie Jones and Peekskill High School (7-1) taking on Section 9 powerhouse Newburgh. The game will be followed by White Plains High School (8-0) playing Mater Dei High School (14-1) from Santa Ana, CA. The Monarchs are currently ranked fourth by Sport Illustrated and feature 6'8" SG Taylor King (Duke), 7'2" center Alex Jacobson (Arizona) and 6'1 PG Cameron Brown (Oregon). The first game will begin at 6:00PM with second game tipping off at 8:15PM.

The event will continue on Sunday January 7 beginning at noon with New Rochelle (8-2) playing Rockland County's Spring Valley (4-3). The 2:00PM game will feature two national prep powers with Notre Dame (11-1) and ranked number one in the nation playing South Kent (11-5). Notre Dame is led by 6'8" Michael Beasley (Kansas State) ranked number one player in the country by Rivals. Over fifteen division one players will compete in the game. The 4:00PM game will have CHSAA's Stepinac (6-2) and 6'3" Melquan Bolding (Louisville) playing Ossining (6-0) and Quinnipiac signne Kenny Horton. The final game of the event will feature Briarcliff (7-1) and currently ranked number two in NYS Class B playing rival Pleasantville (7-1).

For more information including ticket info, current rankings and player inormation go to www.westchesterelite.com.'

1/1/07 PressConnects: Boys & Girls High proves to be class of tournament on and off the court. Tournament MVP Zamal Nixon leads another NYC team to title.

1/1/07 Coach Tom Sampogna: 'College coaches wondering where former St. Mary's PG Aleek Pauline is, well the search is over. After finishing up at Milford Academy last year and now being a full qualifier, Aleek is doing very well out at Reedley College of the Central Valley Conference in California. He is averaging 17 ppg and 5 apg for the 7-8 Tigers. Aleek is coming off his best game yet, going for 29 and 8 vs Lassen CC prior to the holidays. Aleek is a D1 propsect who is flying under the radar. Coaches should jump on him now. He will look to sign in the spring.'

1/1/07 Jimmy Salmon: 'This coming Saturday, January 6th, will be the first of 8 consecutive week's of The Playaz Basketball Club's 2nd Annual 8 (games) is Enough League. The final schedule has been put up on our web site. Teams and fans should follow it accordingly. All games are at Paterson's John F. Kennedy HS located at 61-127 Preakness Blvd. (Each team will have 1 bye week throughout the schedule). For more information contact me @ 973-207-4346 or @ JimSal@tmail.com.

1/1/07 Coach JR Rembert: 'NY Skyriders 7th grade finished the Brower Park "Shoot Hoops, Not Guns" Holiday Classic Tournament going a perfect 4-0 and took home the tournament championship. That's 2 tournament titles in consecutive days. We beat the Broncos in championship. I would like to say congradulations to all my players: Lebrent Walker, Jameik Riviere, Dontay Payne, Yuri Wright, Jevon Thomas, Charles Rembert, Lloyd Wheeler, Travis Flagg, and Maurice Harkless.'