cl2000

Class of 2000

9/16/99: We've added nine seniors to the bottom of our list - Wilbur Williams, Rob Zincowicz, Corey Hepburn, Paul Vitelli, Shaheen Riddick, Isaiah Gomez, Nigel Wyatte, Eric Thompson and Donald McCoy. Class 2000 coverage now at 118, including this index grouping them by twenties. Primary sources are summer '99 NJ Hoops, spring '99 Hoop Scoop, spring '99 Gameball magazine, summer '99 NYC Exposure and fall '98 Blue Ribbon. We haven't changed our ranking order based on summer play, because as always, our rankings and others are to be taken with a large grain of salt. (If we start changing them it may look as if we think we know what we're talking about!)

Eddie Griffen 6-8, Omar Cook 6-0, Andre Barrett 5-7, Taliek Brown 5-11, J C Mathis 6-8, Marcus Toney-el 6-7, Rashid Dunbar 6-2, Zach Williams 6-6, Kyle Cuffe 6-8, Terrance Watkins 6-2, Ed Starks 6-4, Jamal Tate 6-5, Andre Sweet 6-6, Jeff McMillan 6-8, Arthur Barclay 6-6, Eric King 6-5, Joel Suarez 6-1, Sean Mulholland 6-0, James Lattimore 5-8, Tremayne Singletary 6-5.

Mike Boynton 6-2, Mike Sherod 5-11, Mike Cleaves 5-10, Rodney Epperson 6-8, Tyrone Barley 6-0, Rashid Hardwick 6-10, Kevin Johnson 6-7, Charles Henson 6-8, Herve Lamizana 6-8, Jamar Smith 6-5, Corey Hinnant 6-1, Tony Cavalieri 6-0, Andre Logan 6-7, James Thomas 6-8, Mike Skrocki 6-4, Ryan Williams 6-4, Kevin Garritty 6-11, Juma Allen 6-5, Abe Johnson 5-8, Jason Osborne 6-8.

Darryl Boykins 6-1, Mark Curry 6-4, Winston Cousins 6-0, Matt McCloskey 6-3, Jeff Schiffner 6-5, Jahiz Patterson 6-3, Walter Price 6-1, Willie Shaw 6-5, Mike Conover 6-7, Stephon Cox 6-3, Justice Howell 5-11, Mike Konopka 6-8, Aaron Lesane 6-4, Francisco Garcia 6-6, Rashon Banjo 6-5, Juan Rozier 6-3, Justin Tardio 6-3, Devon Hyman 6-3, Kevin Fitzgerald 6-1, John Bucaro 6-3, Ronaje Bethea 6-3, Dan Apicella 6-2.

Randy Williams 6-4, Shaun Green 6-5, Edmund Turkson 5-9, Andre Kirkland 6-4, Lee Church 6-0, Courtney Pritchard 5-7, Michael Garrett 5-10, John Conner 5-11, Johnnie Morant 6-5, Kareem Glover 6-4, Darnell Miller 6-3, Marcus Bullock 6-1, Cliffone Ault 6-0, Eric Ferguson 6-0, Tony Cherry 6-1, John Hemmingway 6-1, Henry Moore 5-6, Steve Hartwig 6-4, Dan Naturale 6-4, Jarius Mc Callum 6-7.

Jaared Brown 6-1, Pete Mulligan 6-4, Grant Stansbury 6-2, Michael Rodziewski 6-5, Ernie D'Orazio 6-1, Pat Lynch 6-3, Bernard Champion 6-6, Dujuan McNair 5-8, Troy Pierson, Robert Waitre 6-0, Stanley Bolden 5-11, Danny Craparo 6-5, Jason Krayl 6-1, David Sands 6-7, Dan Riches 6-3, Damien Murrell 5-11, Nick Thul 6-5, Kevin Solano 6-0, Simeon Belk 5-9, Jamell Kelly 6-1.

Robert Sullivan 6-0, Julius Flavors 6-0, Khari Council 6-2, Matt Hudgins 6-2, Carl Bolton 5-8, Jamel Williams 6-1, Johnny Moore 6-1, Khalid Rice 5-10, Wilbur Williams 6-4, Rob Zincowicz 6-5, Corey Hepborn 6-6, Paul Vitelli 6-5, Nigel Wyatte 6-7, Isaiah Gomez 6-8, Eric Thompson 6-7, Shaheen Riddick 5-10, Donald McCoy 6-4, Jason Mizrahi, 6-3.

Eddie Griffin, 6-8, Roman Catholic, Phil. Pa. 6/2/99: Recruiting Beat: 'an outstanding 6'9" Power Forward from Roman Catholic High School in Philadelphia, PA played very well for the Tim Thomas Playaz. Griffin's top five are Seton Hall, North Carolina, Temple, UMass and Maryland. North Carolina has offerd Griffin, and many consider them the leader. Griffin will be attending the ABCD Camp in July.'

Omar Cook 6-0, point guard, Christ the King, Queens, NY. 1/99: Blue Ribbon top 100, HS #3. 1/98: Consensus top ten sophomore will lead talented upperclassmen this year. HS #8, R USA #2, AS #2, PS #9. 1/12/98 from Sports Only: 'Kenny Anderson and Stephon Marbury who were New York City legends have another great one following in their footsteps. Omar Cook who plays for Christ the King H.S is being mentioned as the next great N.Y City player. This season Cook a 6-0 sophomore is averaging 10 points and eight assists a game. Omar is the real deal on and off the court as he carries a 85 average and has his priorities in the right place. Omar is coached by Bob Oliva who let's Omar call the offensive play's something coach Oliva has never done with any player he's coached before.' SportsOnly. 1/18/98: Daily News loves Omar. 4/6/98: Omar is Daily News second team all city and CHSAA Brooklyn/Queens first team. Web note: he should have been first team all city! 3/22/99 JBM @aol: ' I was in attendance yesterday and witnessed a Rice repeat for the New York City championship, but let me be the first to begin the debate of point guard 2000. Even though Andre Barrett got his second ring yesterday, I felt that Omar Cook of CTK proved himself the top one man in the City for the 2000 season. All due respect to Barrett and Taliek Brown, Cook is just the top gun at the point guard position. Cook's got the body, the instinct and the total package that makes him heir to the throne of great city guards. Can you say ACC? (Hint: Chapel Hill). I hope we can see a scheduled game between the two in the regular season next year.'

Andre Barrett 5-7, point guard, Rice, NY. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #16. 1/2/98 Mike Miller: 'Another young kid I liked a lot. Terrific little defender who made some excellent passes and knocked down some shots, although his orders are obviously to get the ball inside, not to shoot it. Another kid tailor-made for a team which relies on quickness, desire and brains. You know, like in basketball...' 3/22/98: Andre Barrett starts and scores 12 points as Rice takes CHSAA championship from CTK; fellow sophomores Cuffe and Sweet do not score. 4/6/98: Daily News CHSAA Bronx/Manhattan honorable mention. Web note: Andre was the leader of state's best team. 3/21/99 John P. Miciotta: 'And for those of our readers who continue to ask the question "Who's better?" It's still Cook but Barrett's physical growth has allowed his shooting and play making skills to come to the front. So that when we compare them we now have to say they are "1" and "1A". 6/2/99: Recruiting Beat: 'Andre Barrett a 5'7" Point Guard from Rice High School in Bronx, NY was the leading scorer at the Bob Gibbons tournament. Barrett's top schools are Kentucky, Michigan, North Carolina, Syracuse, Clemson, Florida State, N.C. State, Duke, and Villanova.'

Taliek Brown 5-11, point guard, St. John's Prep, Queens. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #24. Taliek's 19 ppg average has taken the heat off senior, Larry Jennings, to give Redmen an impressive backcourt duo. 1/11/98: Prep Wins: St. John's Prep knocked off St. Dominic, a Daily News/MSG Network Tri-State Poll bubble team, 73-66. MVP Larry Jennings scored 25 points and fellow guard Taliek Brown scored 24. "I think people are starting to realize we have a great backcourt," Prep coach Jim Gatto said. "We just came in here trying to prove ourselves and get respect," Jennings said. "I think we got it." 1/17/98: St. John's Prep 60, Xavier 47: Taliek Brown scored 23, Larry Jennings 15 and Dwayne Thompson had eight points and four blocks for SJP (12-2, 6-0 CHSAA B). 4/6/98: Taliek finishes season with a 18.1 ppg, putting him in CHSAA top ten scorers for season. He makes Daily News county honorable mention and his ranking will soar this summer. 7/16/98 Augusta Chronicle: Peach Jam final is set - Houston Jaguars, Arkansas Rockets to meet today in championship game - Taliek Brown. 7/17/98 Augusta Chronicle: Houston takes Peach Jam final - Taliek Brown scores winning basket with six seconds remaining as Houston beats Arkansas. 4/4/99 Recruiting Beat at Boo Williams: 'Top 10 Junior Taliek Brown impressed us with his lightning quick speed off the dribble. Brown who gets knocked for being a bad shooter, shot the ball well in the two games we saw him play. Brown is also a very good defensive player. He has quickest hands of any guard un the Junior Class. Taliek told us his top five schools are Syracuse, St.John's, Seton Hall, UCLA and Utah.'

J C Mathis 6-8, JFK, Bronx. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #43. 5/98: JC played limited minutes with the New York team at Boston Shootout, but he's the JFK star. He's coached by father. HS #30, AS and R USA top 50. 4/6/98: J C is Daily News PSAL Bronx first team selection. 3/3/99 Daily News: Kennedy, Wadleigh Pull Shockers in Quarters. 3/7/99 Daily News: Cardozo, JFK Reach PSAL Final. 3/15/99 Daily News: For Cardozo — Finally.

Marcus Toney-el 6-7, power forward, Seton Hall Prep, NJ. 1/99: Not Blue Ribbon! HS #359, NJ Hoops #1. 1/98: Not rated by Hoop Scoop for the fall of 1997, but rated in August of 1998 by NJ Hoops as the #1 junior in the state, Marcus is supposed to be skipping football this year. He may be the best player on the best team in the state. 3/25/99 InJersey: Seton Hall Prep finishes championship season with TOC crown. 3/30/99 Daily News: Rice, Hall Finish Up as 2 at 1. 6/2/99: Recruiting Beat: 'Marcus Tony-EL countinues to impress us more, the more we see him play. The 6-7 Wing Forward from Seton Hall Prep in West Orange, NJ told us his top schools are Rutgers, South Carolina, Clemson, Seton Hall, Pittsburgh, N.C. State, Duke and UMass.'

Rasheed Dunbar 6-2, guard, Marist, NJ. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #98, NJ Hoops #2. 1/98: Another guy not rated by Hoop Scoop last year, but in August of 1998 is the NJ Hoops #2 pick in the state. Rasheed played for the AAU Fast Break in the Rumble in the Bronx with Marist teammates, Tyrone Barley of SHP and Ronaje Bethea of St. Benedict's. 1/25/99 Ryan: Elizabeth Coalition for the Homeless Tournament - Of course the story was Rasheed Dunbar. He basically took over the 2nd half & finished with 30. Once he got hot (and under control) he couldn't be contained on the perimeter or driving to the post. If Dunbar wasn't listed as one of the top junior prospects, this game would have definitely shined the spotlight on him. 3/21/99 Frank: 'How did I leave Andrew Sullivan off my all-state team.? Here we go - center Sam St. Pats, Forwards Sullivan and tony-El guards J. Williams and Wagner. Second team: Axani, D. Williams, Dunbar, Tate and Tate.' 4/99: Rasheed supposedly playing AAU ball for Tim Thomas Playaz with his buddy Toney_el and Philly flash, Eddie Griffen. 5/9/99: Hoop Scoop: 'A week ago Thursday, April 29th, 6'2 Jr Rasheed Dunbar from Bayonne (Marist) NJ was involved in a serious car accident in Westfield, NJ, which resulted in a punctured lung, broken ribs, swelling of the head, and a broken jaw in two spots. He was operated on Tuesday and although he still has a long road to go the chances of a full recovery appear to be very good. Our New York City Editor Ron Naclerio tells us that Dunbar was a passenger is a car that was blindsided on the right side at a major intersection. The driver only had minor injuries, but Dunbar was in critical condition after the accident. Not only was Dunbar ranked as the #1 junior in New Jersey, but he also gave 6'1 Jr Omar Cook from Middle Village (Christ the King) NY, who ranks #8 nationally by the HOOP SCOOP, all he wanted when they matched up at the IS8 Spring League on Friday, April 23rd. "Dunbar showed me a hell of a lot," says Naclerio. "His ball handling skills and point guard skills have really improved. He also has ability to hit the outside shot and shoot off the dribble. Combine those three things and you have a pretty good player. Plus he's a real nice kid. He'll probably miss the entire summer, but hopefully he'll be recovered in time to play during his senior year of high school next winter.' 6/18/99 NJO: Dunbar's recovery is close to complete.

Zach Williams 6-6, power forward, Christ the King, Queens, NY. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #49. 1/98: HS #28, AS and R USA top 50. 2/98: Zach starts; he and senior Millar patrol the paint for the Royals, who have equally brilliant perimeter players. 4/2-6/98: Busy few days for Zach! On Thursday he's banging bodies with Anthony Glover in Wheelchair Classic, which his Queens team wins. Over the weekend Zach and Omar Cook are on Riverside Church Hawk team that wins Boo Williams tournament in Virginia. On Monday Daily News gives him honorable mention for CHSAA Queens.

Kyle Cuffe 6-7, center, Rice, NY. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #62. 1/98: HS #16, R USA and AS top 50, PS #11. Kyle plays with some great talent. For this year the sophomore pecking order is Barrett, Sweet and Cuffe. When seniors Glover, Wilson and Temple graduate, Raiders will be looking to Kyle. Juniors Satterfield, Bell, Robin and Ramirez are all talented, but they're guards or small forwards. 3/22/98: Andre Barrett starts and scores 12 points as Rice takes CHSAA championship from CTK; fellow sophomores Cuffe and Sweet do not score. 3/21/99 Daily News: How Sweet It Is for Rice - Pound Royals for CHSAA title. 3/23/99 Daily News: Sister Act: The last 10 days' events have produced a real rarity, brother and sister city champions. On March 14, Alfia Cuffe's Bergtraum team captured the PSAL A girls title. And on Sunday, Kyle Cuffe's Rice squad won the CHSAA A boys title. No one can remember such an occurrence for a brother and sister, but it's a safe bet their family will be in Glens Falls watching each go for a state title. 3/27/99 Daily News: Rice Steams Its Way to Title.

Terrance Watkins 6-3, shooting guard, Bishop Loughlin, NY. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, Hs 124. 1/98: HS #93. Seniors Brown and Lyons start, but sophs Watkins and Boynton get their playing time. Terrance got some quality minutes at the end of Garden Super Six, when Lions squeaked by Rice Raiders. 3/6/99 Newsday: Royals Struggle Late In Win Over Loughlin. Loughlin is the youthful group now, led by the junior backcourt tandem of Mike Boynton and Terrence Watkins.

Ed Starks 6-4, shooting guard, Gompers, Bronx, NY. 4/7/98: Ed makes Daily News first team Bronx PSAL with backcourt teammate Melendez. 4/12/98: New York Post likes Ed's game - he makes their third team all-city PSAL. 6/24/98: Ed is shooting the lights out for the Gauchos in the Rumble in the Bronx. 8/1/98: West Coast Hoops - Greg Perry: 'Slasher Eddie Starks led the balanced Gauco attack with 18 in the semis and 16 in the championship game. He showed no evidence of a jumper, but he was relentless attacking the goal and getting inside the defense with the dribble.' Web note: He's got a jumper, Greg! 8/19/98: Daily News - The Bronx-based Gauchos club team won the Grand Finale title in Las Vegas last month with Starks as a key starter. 9/8/98: LFBALL: 'Ed Starks is a very good player who needs a bit more direction and focus. Though he is talented, he needs an attitude adjustment. Learned from his Gaucho AAU coaches that he had to be seated in recent tournaments because of his attitude (replaced by Marcel Williams of Teaneck who did a fine job). Overall a very good player who should be recruited on the D1 level, but how high will depend on his work ethic, grades, and attitude. Right now I would have him in 30s or early 40s, with potential to move much higher.' 9/10/98: John: 'I saw Ed Starks light it up for Gompers in an early round playoff game for Gompers this past season (sorry I can't remember the opponent). The guy stuck threes one after the other from the hash mark with defenders draped on him. Lots of kids are big leapers until they have to shoot jump shots but all this kid needs is a hair of room and boom, he's up at the peak of his jump and his form and follow-through are always the same. Unfortunately I also saw the attitude that LFBALL alluded to. He walked back on defense, and barely got into a defensive stance at times. I have also heard from a reliable source that his grades are a problem. If he can ever find the focus he will be a super prospect.'

Jamal Tate 6-5, forward, Linden, NJ. 1/99: HS nr!? NJ Hoops #5. 4/5/98 NJO: Key statistics: Averaged 23.1 points and 12.1 rebounds to guide young Linden to a 12-11 record. He sat out two of the losses with a hip injury. Summary: As a freshman, he was mainly a rebounder. This year, he added a neat baseline jumper and demonstrated better ballhandling skills. The future seems limitless.'

Andre Sweet 6-6, power forward, Rice, NY. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #196. 1/98: HS #37, AS and R USA top 50. 1/2/98 again from Mike Miller: 'A quick, slender player who is going to prosper and possibly star in this system down the road. If he puts on 2 inches he can really stand out. I liked this kid.' 3/22/98: Andre Barrett starts and scores 12 points as Rice takes CHSAA championship from CTK; fellow sophomores Cuffe and Sweet do not score. 3/21/99 Daily News: How Sweet It Is for Rice - Pound Royals for CHSAA title. 3/27/99 Daily News: Rice Steams Its Way to Title.

Jeff McMillan, 6-8, Curtis, NY. 4/7/98 Daily News: Staten Island PSAL Boys. 'Voted by coaches from the Staten Island League where public and Catholic schools compete together as the MVP, McMillan was the inside force no one had an answer for.' 4/12/98 New York Post - 1998 All-City Boys Hoops - Jeff makes PSAL honorable mention. 4/23/98 NYSSWA State Teams - Jeff makes class A (the biggest schools) fifth all state. 5/98: Jeff is in the pivot for NY Skyriders at Spring IS8, while Vohn Hunter, Slobodan Savovic and Tim Butler patrol the perimeter. 7/24/98 Brick Oettinger at the Sporting News: Big time action at the Big Time tournament. Brick liked the Madison Broncos in Las Vegas. Jeff was on that team. Rich: ' Jeff McMillan started at Bayside HS and ended up at Curtis HS this past year.' 9/10/98 Russ Blake: Jeff played with the Madison Square Broncos in Las Vegas and may be back in high school this fall. 4/99: Somehow Jeff is classified as a junior (seems like a fifth year senior to us). The St. John's AOL board is convinced that he's pledged for the Storm in Y2K. Stay tuned. 4/30/99 Mike Sullivan of Insiders Report: ' Jeff McMillan, a 6-7 1/2, 260 pound power forward from St. Thomas More in Oakdale, Conn. has not yet committed to St. John's. Contrary to published reports on Wednesday, St. Thomas More assistant coach Fred Dupree told the Insiders Report that McMillan has not given an official commitment to the Jamaica, N.Y. school. "Jeff's dream as a kid going up was to attend St. John's," Dupree said. "And of course, that's a school high on his list, but he wants to see what kind of summer he has, so he will keep the recruitment open." Among the schools in strong with McMillan, according to Dupree, are St. John's, Fordham and Providence, although a slew of other Big East and A-10 schools are expressing interest in the Staten Island native. This past season, McMillan averaged 12 points and eight rebounds. He was reclassified as a junior upon entering St. Thomas More after spending last season at Curtis H.S. in Staten Island. "What is happening is that a lot of schools know that Jeff's dream is to play at St. John's, and think that it's a done deal that he will go to St. John's," Dupree said. "But as much as he is interested in St. John's, he wants to look at his other options." Dupree accompanied McMillan to a banquet in New York City on Tuesday evening, which was a fundraiser for the Student Athletes Inc. That organization funds McMillan's AAU program, the Madison Square Broncos. Although Dupree was unsure of the source of the rumor, he was fairly certain that it had to do with the arrival of McMillan in New York for the banquet. "There has obviously been a miscommunication somewhere along the line, but we want people to know that his recruitment is wide open," Dupree explained.

Arthur Barclay 6-7, power forward, Camden, NJ. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #369, NJ Hoops #17. 1/98: HS #56. 7/98: NJ Hoops rating of #17 in New Jersey. 2/23/99 Inquirer: Camden's Barclay has come a long way in little time. 3/19/99 Jeremy Tiers: 'Rashaad Carruth, DuJuan Wagner and Arthur Barclay are among those going to France May 22-24 to play for a team that Nike set up.'

Eric King 6-5, power forward, Lincoln, Brooklyn. 1/99: HS #184. 1/19/98: Lincoln Derails Robeson. 1/23/98: Lincoln Downs Grady Railsplitters make move to first place. 2/7/98: Lincoln 79, Madison 51: The Railsplitters won the Brooklyn Division I title for the first time since the Stephon Marbury Era as Eric King scored 17 points and had 10 rebounds. Jason Coleman finished with 16 points and Sylvester Telfarr added 15 for Lincoln, which will now host Westinghouse in a first-round playoff game Thursday at 4 p.m. 2/13/98: Lincoln 90, Westinghouse 62: The Railsplitters (18-5) staked a claim to a top three-seed behind blossoming sophomores Eric King and Aaron Lesane. The 6-6 King had 28 points, 13 rebounds and three blocks and the 6-4 Lesane, who only started playing regularly recently after a junior starter failed off the team, added 19 points, 20 boards and five blocks. 4/6/98: Daily News PSAL Brooklyn second team! 1/29/99 Daily News: Lincoln Stays on Top As King Steals Show. Newsday: King's Rule Nabs Crown For Lincoln. 1/31/99 Daily News: St. Ray's Rips Lincoln. 3/7/99 Daily News: Cardozo, JFK Reach PSAL Final.

Joel Suarez, 6-1 point guard, St. Marys. 1/99: HS #170. 2/98: Joel is one of the better sophomores at this site that Hoop Scoop missed. Joel, Maurice Manning and Barry Baker were probably the three best players on Long Island this last season. 4/2/98: Joel is a no-show at Wheelchair Classic. He was scheduled to play with the Queens team - with Omar Cook and Taliek Brown, no less! 4/6/98: Newsday picked Joel first team CHSAA, Long Island. 8/4/98: Rich: Top players at the IS 8 Adidas Summer High School Classic - Rashid Hardwick (Freeport), St. Mary's: Joel Suarez (St. Mary's). 8/15/98 The underdogs win in the semis at IS8: Southside 96, St. Mary's 81 and Huntington 90, Jaguars 83 in overtime. With 26 points Joel Suarez of St. Mary's was probably the best player on the court and got help from Jim Frauenberg with 24 and Brian Boyle with 17. 2/2/99 Newsday: St. Mary's Tops Chaminade. 03/30/99: Newsday: LI CHSAA BOYS BASKETBALL ALL-LEAGUE FIRST TEAM.

Sean Mulholland 6-0, point guard, Shawnee, NJ. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #165, NJ Hoops #4. 1/98: HS #76. 2/4/98 Team is 7-0 in division, 16-1 overall, rated as sixth best in south Jersey. 2/13/98 Philadelphia Inquirer - 'Shawnee capitalized on several turnovers to fashion a 32-20 second-half comeback and beat host Willingboro, 53-50, keeping the Renegades' win streak alive at nine. Chris Duckrey had 19 points and Sean Mulholland 11 for Shawnee.' 3/3/99 Bayshore: 'South Jersey Group 4 - Watched #5 seed Shawnee take out #12 Cherokee for the third time this season (17, 20, and now 21 pts 66-45) zzzzzz. Went to see Sean Mulholland (Jr guard RU, among others, is looking at). Mulholland has a way to go to be a D-1 player, he had 14 (2-8 beyond the arc). A spot jump shooter with some separation on the dribble.'

James Lattimore, 5-8, point guard, Paterson Kennedy, NJ. 1/99: HS nr?! 7/98: NJ Hoops rating of #15 in New Jersey. 8/8/98 LFBALL: 'I can not believe my good buddy Rich could send in a comment about this tournament and not mention the most impressive player there. Rich is one of the best at identifying gerat and good players and maybe he was busy talking during the game (Smile Rich). We all know that Kenny Saterfield is a great player, and we know about DaJuan Wagner and his great scoring ability for a 10th grader. Scouting services and those that follow seem to always give great props to those with reputations, yet the public school player who may not have the free gear from Addidas or Nike, or the benefit of traveling the entire USA to play games seems to never get the recognition. For anyone to sit in the Patterson High School gym yesterday and witness the performance of Kennedy High Schools (Patterson, NJ) James Latimore and not mention it is a crime. Accordin to Nate Cadigan, coach of the LI Panthers, he was one of the best guards they saw all year. He even wants to attempt to get him in a Panther uniform in the future. He had to score between 30 and 40 against Brian Woodward (1st game back after serious injury) who is a top 50 HS player, and Justice Howell, a player with a good reputation. Not only did he score, he saw the court extremely well and had over 8 assists, and 4 steals. Though the LI Panthers were short handed with six players they went 6 ft 11, 6 ft 9, 6 ft 7, 6 ft 5, 6 ft 3, and 5 ft 11. But you know how it goes, Tom Konchalski and Russ Blake were there and they probally still will not give this kid props (Smile Russ). Although Russ did know him and said to me after the game "James Lattimore is very good". By the way, I have watched him play similar very often. HE IS ONLY A JUNIOR THIS YEAR!' 12/29/98 In the second semi-final Dickinson, Jersey City beat Paterson Kennedy 77-70. The Rams were led by 6'7" senior center Rashaw Wilson's 21 pts. - 18 rebounds - 6 blocked shots and senior Guard Chi-Chi Nawadike's 18( 2nd half points) 12 in the 4th quarter. The Knights were led by senior Forward Carzell Collins' 27 pts however he was neutralized off the boards by Wilson. Lattimore had 27 pts. but uncharacteristically commited 8 turnovers 6 in 4th quarter.' 1/27/99 Coach James Ring: 'NNJIL - Atlantic Results - Kennedy 80 - Hackensack 58 - Knights open up a 1 1/2 game lead in the division. Kennedy 8-1 in league 11 - 2 overall while Hackensack falls to 6-2 in league 8 - 3 overall. The Knights were led today by the 3 headed dragon of James Lattimore's 22pts - 6 assists Michael Cleaves' 16pts 5 steals and Carzell Collins' game high 23pts. - 24rebs.'

Tremayne Singletary 6-5, power forward, Cardozo, NY. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #190. 1/98: HS # 51. His team is looking like the class of the PSAL, and that means some good exposure for Tremayne. Senior Mel Robinson remains the main guy in the paint. 4/2/98: With teammate and fellow soph, Ryan Williams, in the paint it will be interesting to see how Cardozo develops next year with Robinson and Sanders gone, but Woodward back. 3/7/99 Daily News: Cardozo, JFK Reach PSAL Final. 3/15/99 Daily News: For Cardozo — Finally.

Mike Boynton, 6-2, shooting guard, Bishop Loughlin, Brooklyn, NY. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #54. 1/98: HS #23, R USA and AS top 50. Lions often play a three guard set with Mike, Brown and Lyons. He's getting quality playing time and he's producing. 3/6/99 Newsday: Royals Struggle Late In Win Over Loughlin. Loughlin is the youthful group now, led by the junior backcourt tandem of Mike Boynton and Terrence Watkins.

Mike Sherrod, 5-11, point guard, NYC. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #241. 5/98 'It's Aaron Wilson again - wanted to see what you're up to. On the section where you have Players, you left out some real talented players. Like Mike Sherrod from Paul Robeson H.S 6'0 soph Point Guard. I think he is the second best sophmore point guard behind Omar Cook - just ask Tom Konchalski or any PSAL coach.' Rich: 'I was impressed with Mike Sherrod of Robeson when I saw them beat Far Rockaway and lose to Grady during the PSAL playoffs. He has 1st team all-PSAL potential. There was a M. Sherod in the scorebook on the Riverside A roster. They beat the Warriors, 70-44 although I don't recall the individual scoring.' John: 'The two Robeson sophs are difficult for me to evaluate because I've only seen them once, in an early season loss to Xaverian. Remember though that if Mike Sherod is the second best point guard in the city that puts him ahead of Andre Barrett who may have been the most improved player in New York this year.' 1/22/99 Daily News: Robeson 64, Canarsie 60: Robeson led by 11 with three minutes to play and survived a Canarsie charge fueled by two Aswan Morris three-pointers. The Eagles could have been in trouble when star forward Danny Walker (15 points) fouled out early in the fourth quarter, but Mike Sherrod scored 12 of his team-high 18 points in the final frame to pull Robeson (15-4, 11-0 Brooklyn III-A) through.

Mike Cleaves 5-10, guard, Paterson Kennedy. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS nr, NJ Hoops #40. Mike and sophomore Daeshon Moore transferred from Paterson Catholic. They begin their season on 1/17/99 vs Academy Park, Pa. in Hoop Group Invitational at Bishop Eustace. 1/18/99 Coach James Ring: 'Converse/CN8 Results - Kennedy 73 - Academy Park Pa. 70. Paterson Kennedy was led by Sr. Carzell Collins' 20pts. and 17rebs, James Lattimore's 17pts. and 7ass'ts, Mike Cleaves' 13pts. 8rebs., 6steals, 6ass'ts. Kennedy improves to 8 - 2 while Academy Park falls to 10 - 3. 1/27/99 Coach James Ring: 'NNJIL - Atlantic Results - Eastside 72 - Clifton 69 - Mustangs lose another tough one. They are much improved even if record doesn't show it. They will be a tough out in upcoming County Tm't. Ridgewood 59 - Passaic 52 - Maroons improve to solidify a berth in Bergen County Tm't. along with a state tm't. qualifying record. Kennedy 80 - Hackensack 58 - Knights open up a 1 1/2 game lead in the division. Kennedy 8-1 in league 11 - 2 overall while Hackensack falls to 6-2 in league 8 - 3 overall. The Knights were led today by the 3 headed dragon of James Lattimore's 22pts - 6 assists Michael Cleaves' 16pts 5 steals and Carzell Collins' game high 23pts. - 24rebs.' BRO: Kennedy steps up on defense.

Rodney Epperson 6-7, small forward, LaSalle, NYC. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #364. 1/98: Rodney and Famous Brown are LaSalle JV stars. About the JV, LaSalle coach Bill Aberer said, 'I made a mistake not moving him up.' - Nick Vendikos @AOL: "Besides the oft-mentioned (by me) Famous Brown, La Salle's JV has another big-timer in Rodney Eperson, a 6-7 sophomore small forward with three-point range.' 1/19/99: Mail from LFBALL: Nike Super 6 - Madison Square Garden. Rodney Eperson (6 ft 8) along with the very tall young kids playing JV and freshmen, will make LaSalle a power in the future.

Tyrone Barley 6-0, guard, Seton Hall Prep. 1/99: HS #283, NJ Hoops #10. 7/98: Going into the 1998 - 1999 season NJ Hoops rates SHP point guard senior, Brandin Knight as the 16th. best senior in New Jersey and Toney-el, Curry and Tyrone as the 1st. 6th and 10th best juniors in the state. Prep Stars and Hoop Scoop have only notice Knight and Curry. It's time for Tyrone, the playground legend, to step up. 3/25/99 InJersey: Seton Hall Prep finishes championship season with TOC crown. 3/30/99 Daily News: Rice, Hall Finish Up as 2 at 1.

Rashid Hardwick, 6-10, center, LI. 7/9/98 Newsday: Hardwick Learns Hard Work Pays. 4/1/99 Gameball #42.

Kevin Johnson 6-7, wing forward, Milford Academy, Ct. 4/1/99 Gameball #31. 9/13/98: Kevin and Micah Brand may be seniors or juniors. Both play for the Riverside Church Hawks. If either or both are juniors they're top ten. 4/1/99 Gameball #21. 4/99: Kevin played for Milford this past year and for Bronx Wheelchair classic team. Brand is a senior, Kevin a junior.

Charles Henson 6-8, center, All Hallows, Bronx, NY. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #154. 8/9/98: John - 'Veteran Coach John Carey should be able to count on a young and talented front court where 6'8" Charles Henson and 6'4" Randy Williams, a pair of juniors with a year of varsity experience already under their belts, should provide steady inside scoring and toughness under the basket. Henson has enjoyed a terrific summer and shown himself to be a hidden jewel in the outstanding class of 2000.'

Herve Lamizana 6-8, St. Patrick, NJ. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #301, NJ Hoops #7. 7/98: NJ Hoops rating of #7 in New Jersey. 1/25/99 Ryan: Elizabeth Coalition for the Homeless Tournament - Lamizana showed some good offensive skills near the basket.

Jamar Smith 6-5, power forward, Overbrook, NJ. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS nr? NJ Hoops #13. 1/98: HS nr. 2/7/98: Inquirer - Jamar scores 37 against Pennsauken. 8/3/98 Inquirer: 'Jamar Smith continued his impressive summer by leading Overbrook to the championship of the Washington Township League. The 6-7 junior scored 25 points as Overbrook beat Deptford, 51-49, in last week's title game. Smith, who averaged 20.9 points for Overbrook as a sophomore, also has played since the spring for the New Jersey All-Stars, a team that competed in high-profile tournaments in Virginia, North Carolina and Florida. "I think a lot more people know about me from playing AAU," Smith said. "My goal after the basketball season was to improve, and I think I've done that." He said he feels that Overbrook also has improved. The Rams went 11-12 during the high school season. "Winning the Washington Township League should give us confidence," Smith said. "I'm looking forward to the season."

Corey Hinnant 6-1, guard, Bay Shore. 4/1/99 Gameball #36. 4/25/99 Newsday: 'Bay Shore coach Ken Parham needed a point guard, and fate dealt him one of Long Island's best when Corey Hinnant transferred from Christ the King (Queens) during the summer. Hinnant led the Marauders in scoring (16 points), assists (7) and steals (3). He also grabbed 4 rebounds per game and shot 75 percent from the foul line. Bay Shore reached the Suffolk Class A final thanks to a potent offense paced by Hinnant, who is known for going strong to the basket. Parham believes Hinnant also is a clutch player, which should give Bay Shore fans something to look forward to next season. "He took our team to the next level," Parham said. "We were good without him last year, but this year we were one of the top teams around. He was the difference."

Tony Cavalieri 6-0, point guard, Atlantic City. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #730, NJ Hoops #35. 7/98: NJ Hoops rating of #35 in New Jersey. 4/2/99 Hoop Group Metro Top 100 Clinic @ FDU Afternoon (2:30 - 7:00) roster included junior Tony Cavalieri from Atlantic City.

Andre Logan 6-7, forward, Poly Prep, Brooklyn. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #175. 1/98: HS #171. 4/6/98: Andre rates Daily News second team for private schools. 4/13/98: Andre rates New York Post second team for private schools. 8/12/98: Stephen Finamore of College Hoops Insider: Notes from Five Star - Andre Logan 6-6 Jr Poly Prep (Brooklyn) NY showed signs that he will be a big time player just like his father.

James Thomas 6-8, forward, prep at Milford, Ct. James is originally from Schenectady. He plays with AAU Albany City Rocks. He looked good in June '99 Rumble in the Bronx.

Mike Skrocki 6-4, forward, CBA. 1/99: HS nr, NJ Hoops #18. 6/98: Mike and Justin Tardio were teammates on the Central Jersey Hawks AAU team that won the 16 and under championship at the Rumble in the Bronx. 12/98: Mike is starting at off-guard for a very deep CBA team where Todd Billet is the first option. He's playing so well, he may end up the second option. 12/20/98 Daily News Shootout: CTK 66, CBA 49. - Coach Ed Wicelinski of CBA said, 'Our two best players (Billet and Skrocki) had off games.'

Ryan Williams 6-4, forward, Cardozo, Brooklyn. 1/99: HS #116. 1/98: Averaged 11.5 rebounds this year. 1/24/98: Cardozo 50, Beach Channel 42: The Judges remained unbeaten (17-0, 13-0 Queens II Damian Leslie had 15 points, Melvin Robinson nine and Ryan Williams eight with 11 rebounds for Cardozo. 1/25/98: Cardozo 63, Tilden 54: Melvin Robinson had 21 points and Ryan Williams, a sophomore, added 13 and 26 rebounds for Cardozo. "I hope this was a coming out party for him," Naclerio said. He's had flashes of this, but he could be real good." 4/6/98: Team's early exit in playoffs hurts post-season recognition. Neither Ryan nor teammate Tremayne Singletary get mentioned in Daily News PSAL Brooklyn teams. Will that make them hungry?

Kevin Garritty 6-11, center, Wardlaw, NJ. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS nr?! 7/98: NJ Hoops rating of #8 in New Jersey. 10/19/98: Daily News: 'Tony Tate, a top sophomore at Jersey City (N.J.) St. Anthony, also went to Rutgers on Friday night as did 7-foot freshman Kevin Garrity from Edison (N.J.) Wardlaw Hartridge. . '

Juma Allen 6-5 center, CTK, NY. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #236. 1/98: HS #204. Omar Cook and Zach Williams started for CTK as their only sophomore players. If Juma is waiting in the wings, a good team will be that much better. 12/98: Juma is Royals' third power player; he gets solid minutes backing up Williams and McCarroll. 4/99: With McCarroll graduating Juma is in line to start in the Royal frontcourt.

Abe Johnson 5-8, point guard, Newark Eastside, NJ. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #164. 1/98: HS #108. 7/98: NJ Hoops rating of #11 in New Jersey. 5/99: Coach Tony 'Abraham Johnson was the best point guard in Essex County this year with the exception of Brandin Knight. He is lightning quick who is a tremendous penetrator with three point range. He is a great passer also. He scored 33 on us in our county semifinal. He is 5'9" so he may be a small for major D1 but mid level may be possible.'

Jason Osborne 6-8, center/forward, Rice, NY. 1/99: HS #332. 8/98: Jason was on the Rice varsity last year and got no significant playing time. He played for Gauchos in summer of 1998 and looked very good teaming with Caballeros and Carlton. Raiders are set in backcourt with Barrett, Satterfield and Bell. They need Jason, Cuffe and Sweet to step up. 12/31/98 Daily News: Rice Has Ball at Beach As Bell Chimes In Early. Junior forward Sweet and junior reserve forward Osborne also picked up some offense for the Raiders. 2/10/99 Daily News: For St. Ray's, Win Is Sweet Revenge. Though Rice had been buoyed by the play of 6-8 Jason Osborne (16 points), St. Ray's Nickerson seized those moments. 6/2/99: Recruiting Beat: 'Jason Osborne a 6'8" forward from Rice high school in Bronx, NY was a bit inconsistant this weekend, but had a strong showing Saturday night against Salt Lake City Metro, but struggled against Illionois Fire. Jason told us that Rutgers, Penn ST., West Virginia, South Carolina and Miami. He will be attending the ABCD camp.'

Darryl Boykins 6-1, point guard, Msgr. McClancy, NYC. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #139. Darryl was on the IS8 fall Rebel roster with Sean Ramirez, Kaden Molloy, Winston Cousins, Uka Agbai and John Bucaro. 1/30/99 Loughlin 85, McClancy 54: Mike Boynton led Loughlin (11-5, 5-3 CHSAA) with 15 points. Daryl Boykins had 22 points for McClancy (5-11, 1-5). 2/20/99 Newsday: St. Francis Prep 53, McClancy 52: Tim Wagner made 1 of 2 free throws with five seconds left to earn the win for St. Francis Prep (12-10, 5-7 CHSAA Brooklyn/Queens). John Faughnan led the Terriers with 14 points and Kevin Fitzgerald added 12. Darryl Boykins paced McClancy with 18 points.

Mark Curry, 6-4, power forward/center. Seton Hall Prep. 1/99: HS #120, NJ Hoops #6. 1/98: Hoop Scoop and Prep Stars love Marc at the Lewes, Md tournament and his rating soars. 7/98: NJ Hoops rating of #6 in New Jersey. 3/21/99 NJO: 'The Rock' helping Seton roll - Mark Curry. 3/25/99 InJersey: Seton Hall Prep finishes championship season with TOC crown. 3/30/99 Daily News: Rice, Hall Finish Up as 2 at 1.

Winston Cousins point guard, Bishop Ford, Queens. 1/99: HS #292. 1/6/98: Bishop Ford got four points from Kaden Molloy and two free throws from guard Winston Cousins in the final 2:35 as the Falcons rallied for a 50-43 win over Cuyahoga Falls (Ohio) yesterday in the opening round of the Stop DWI Classic in Binghamton. 2/10/98: from Stephen Finamore, College Hoops Insider: 'Wait, I have another sophomore that you'll be hearing about very soon. His name is Winston Cousins, 5-10 point guard from Bishop Ford HS (Brooklyn, NY).' 3/15/98: Finished season with 8.3 ppg. 1/28/99 Coach Kevin Pigott of Fordham Prep: Catholic League B division. 'Ford has been inconsistent, but if Winston Cousins gets his game to a more consistent level, they will be a contender during the playoffs.'

Matt McCloskey 6-3, guard, Albany NY. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #191. 6/17/98: Rumble in the Bronx - Matt was the point guard for the AAU 16 and Under Albany City Hawks. If no one upstate has said it yet, I'll be the first - think of a taller, but just as scrappy Wojo. Think persistent, annoying and a royal pain in the a__! Come back soon. Matt.

Jeff Schiffner, 6-5, forward, Mendham, NJ. 4/99: Jeff averaged 21.1 ppg this season. At the beginning of the season NJ Hoops had Jeff rated as the 67th. best junior in the state. At the end of the year they had him on the state's overall fourth team with Linden junior Jamal Tate. Only Marcus Toney-el and Rashid Dunbar were higher rated juniors. Meanwhile NJO picked Jeff as their Morris county player of the year. 4/11/99: NJO: Quick, strong Schiffner was versatile standout for Mendham.

Jahiz Patterson, 6-3, forward, Henry Hudson NJ Hoops #16. 4/11/99 NJO 'Surprise of the year (player): College scouts descended upon tiny Henry Hudson High to catch a glimpse at Jahiz Patterson. The 6-3 junior was an unstoppable offensive force who carried a 21.0 scoring average, four points better than his sophomore rate. He erupted for 37 points on two occasions and recorded a triple-double on Feb. 19 when he had 23 points, 15 rebounds and 11 assists in a 79-47 victory over Keyport. '

Walter Price 6-1, point guard, St. Patricks, Elizabeth, NJ. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #236, NJ Hoops #4. 1/98: Walter backs up and competes with junior Holman for point minutes. HS #37, PS #24, R USA and AS top 50. 1/11/98: Forget the point. Walter has become the Celtics designated three-point shooter and it's getting him playing time. 1/25/99 Ryan: 'St. Pat's falls to CTK, 52-48. Walter Price had an excellent perimeter game...'

Willie Shaw, 6-5, forward, JFK, Bronx. 4/1/99 Gameball #22. 4/20/99 Daily News: 'This early Christmas present for Knights' coach Johnny Mathis came in September when Shaw transferred from Tuckahoe HS in Westchester to Kennedy. "He's an excellent player in the open court," said JFK coach Johnny Mathis. "His quickness is just incredible. Shaw played mostly on the wing in the Knights' three-guard offense and averaged 18 points and 7.5 rebounds this season. The 6-5 Shaw, like Mathis, is only a junior so prospects for another outstanding season in Riverdale are very promising.'

Mike Conover 6-7, Steinert, NJ. 1/99: HS nr. 7/98: NJ Hoops rating of #12 in New Jersey.

Stephon Cox 6-3, shooting guard, Boys & Girls, Brooklyn. 1/99: HS #270. 12/20/97: Boys & Girls 82, Prospect Heights 54: Dushaun Mitchell scored 19 points and Stephon Cox 18 to lead B&G. 12/21/97: Boys and Girls 78, Bryant 73: Stephon Cox had 28 points and Kareem Glover had 17 for B&G. 12/28/97: Manhattan Center beats Boys and Girls Kangaroos. Stephon Cox scored a game-high 27 points for B&G (4-6). Cox provided most of the second-half highlights, hitting several outside shots as the Kangaroos tried to mount a comeback. Midway through the fourth quarter, Cox sank three treys in :57, but it only brought B & G within 12. 4/6/98: Daily News PSAL Brooklyn honorable mention. 4/1298: New York Post: PSAL honorable mention. 2/12/99 Daily News: Utes Outjump 'Roos. Bron Groomes scored 18, Stephon Cox 11 and Church eight for B&G.

Justice Howell 5-11, point guard, Paterson Catholic, NJ. 1/99: HS nr? NJ Hoops #14. 1/98: If Justice is on the St. Patrick varsity, he hasn't made any boxscore that I've seen. Junior Holman runs the show; I've got to believe Justice is running the junior varsity team. 2/22/98: Not true. Justice has transferred to nearby Paterson Catholic and is starting for the Cougars. 3/2/98 from NJO: 'and sophomore Justice Howell (a transfer from St. Patrick's) contribute to Paterson Catholic's perimeter attack.' 12/20/98 BRO: 'Egg Harbor Tip-Off Classic - DeShaun Williams, shifted to point guard because of a first-quarter injury to Justice Howell, responded with 29 points, seven rebounds, and four assists as Paterson Catholic turned back Atlantic City, 67-59.

Mike Konopka, 6-8, Toms River East. The onetime soccer player made NJO's honorable mention and surprise of the year for Ocean County and NJ Hoops first team. Mike looked good during Hoop Group's Easter weekend sessions at FDU last month, but we don't yet know where he's playing summer ball. He figures to be around the top forty New Jersey seniors next year. 5/6/99: Walt Konopka (Mike's Dad) - 'Thanks for your coverage of Mike. He played up in Providence last month at the Converse Jam Fest with the Ocean Wolfpack. This AAU team is comprised of "to be Seniors" from TR East, Jackson, Southern Regional, Manchester and Point Pleasant. The team fared well in round robin play but did not advance to the winners bracket. Mike averaged about 20 pts each game. While Mike was up in Rhode Island, we made unofficial visits to Providence & Brown. Both schools have been sending Mike recruiting packages. The week before, on Easter Monday-4/5/99, Mike made an unofficial visit to UNC-Asheville, another school very interested in Mike. Within the next few weeks, we are planning another unofficial visit to Penn State, which is very interested in Mike. As of this date, Mike has received approximately 30 letters of interest from Division I schools. Some schools who seem very interested, in addition to the above, are Xaiver, Dayton, Northeastern, Boston University, Seton Hall, Princeton, Illinois and DePaul.

Mike's summer schedule at this point is as follows: July 7-11 Eastern Invitational Camp @ College of NJ (definite), July 11-13 NJ Showdown AAU Tourn. @ Bishop Eustace with Ocean Wolfpack (tentative), July 16-18 NAYB Tournament @ Rutgers with TR East (tentative), July 23-25 Metro Classic Tournament @ Seton Hall with TR East (definite), July 25-29 Invited to the PrepStars Invitational Camp @ UNCC (will probably not attend). Mike was also contacted by Adidas the other evening and informed that he is on the alternate list for their ABCD camp in July @ FDU. They will keep him posted.

I believe Mike is also playing in a local AAU Tournament in Toms River the week-end of 5/21 through 5/23 as well as playing in summer leagues in Belmar and Toms River. Finally, on April 29th, Mike was inducted into the National Honor Society for the 1999-2000 school year.'

Aaron Lesane 6-4, forward, Lincoln, Brooklyn. 1/99: HS #371. In early '99 the Railsplitters are 9-0 and ranked as the #1 PSAL team in the city. Eric King and freshman flash, Olabode Olukanni get most of the ink, but Aaron is helping the cause. 3/4/99 Daily News: Lincoln 60, New Utrecht 47: Lincoln (22-3) led 46-35 after three, and held off several rallies by the Utes (19-6). Lincoln's Aaron Lesane had 18 points and 13 rebounds. 3/7/99 Daily News: Cardozo, JFK Reach PSAL Final. 12/22/98 Inquirer: It's Crawfords' team at Camden Catholic.

Francisco Garcia, 6-6, forward, Taft, NY. 4/1/99 Gameball #24, Hoop Scoop #12. Teammate Edgar Lugo got the Dail News Bronx honorable mention but Francisco has the size and a chance to be very good next year.

Rashaun Banjo 6-5, forward, Woodmere, LI. 1/99: HS #145. Rashaun played at the fall IS8 classic for Amir Sultan's Skyriders with John Connor, Darryl Bynoe and Leon Merritt. 3/27/99 Daily News: Woodmere Bounces Salesian Rashaun Banjo (22 points), Murray (20 points, 20 rebounds) and Rekeyon Haynes (15 points) feasted at both ends of the court. 3/27/99 Newsday: Lawrence Woodmere Academy senior Andwele Murray (20 points, 20 rebounds) was named the Class C MVP after beating Salesian to win the title. Teammates Rekeyon Haynes (15 points) and Rashaun Banjo (22 points) were all-tournament players .

Juan Rozier 6-3, power forward, Bishop Eustace, NJ. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #356, NJ Hoops #19. 2/98: HS #177. Juan and senior, Andre Williams, star for team currently (early February, 1998) ranked fourth in New Jersey. 3/10/99 Inquirer: Cold-shooting Eustace is ousted in Parochial A.The Crusaders, who scored one point in the second quarter, lost to St. Joseph's of Metuchen, 49-32.

Justin Tardio 6-3 forward, Red Bank Catholic. 1/99: HS nr? NJ Hoops #20. 6/98: Justin and Mike Skrocki were teammates on the Central Jersey Hawks AAU team that won the 16 and under championship at the Rumble in the Bronx. 4/4/99: Justin is on solid Central Jersey Hawks 17 and under roster with Mike Skrocki, Jayson Herring, Dan Craparo, Dave Sands and Nick Thul.

Devon Hyman, 6-3, guard, All Hallows, NY. 4/1/99 Gameball #37, Hoop Scoop #25.

Kevin Fitzgerald 6-1 forward, St. Francis Prep. 1/99: HS #267. 3/98: Averaged 12.1points and 4.8 rebounds for season. Kevin and Darryl Boykins trailed only super soph Taliek Brown in CHSAA scoring, but all three rate behind sophomore trio of Cook, Barrett and Zach Williams for CHSAA rising stars. 2/20/99 Newsday: St. Francis Prep 53, McClancy 52: Tim Wagner made 1 of 2 free throws with five seconds left to earn the win for St. Francis Prep (12-10, 5-7 CHSAA Brooklyn/Queens). John Faughnan led the Terriers with 14 points and Kevin Fitzgerald added 12. 3/11/99 Newsday: Rice Pulls Away From Pesky Terriers. Kevin Fitzgerald led Prep with 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 steals.

John Bucaro, 6-4, forward, St Anthony, LI. 1/99: HS nr? 8/98: Debbie at AOL: 'Your top prospects for the class of 2000 is impressive, however you are missing John Bucaro, an unheralded prospect from St. Anthony's High School on Long Island. Bucaro made all league honorable mention as a sophomore, was a member of the Long Island Empire State team, and plays for the 17 and under Long Island Lightning AAU team. Bucaro has performed well in recent Spring leagues as noted under your team profile for St. Anthony's Long Island. He's the real deal - check him out.' 1/10/99: 'Second Annual Queens/Nassau Long Island Invitational Classic - John Bucaro had 16 points on solid inside and outside scoring opportunities.' 3/30/99 Newsday: John makes LI CHSAA Boys' Basketball all-league first team. 4/3/99 Newsday: A National Stage For Top LI Preps.

Ronaje Bethea, 6-3, forward, St. Benedicts. 1/99: HS nr? 7/98: NJ Hoops rating of #22 in New Jersey.

Dan Apicella 6-2, forward, St. Francis Prep. 1/99:HS #326. 3/98: Led Terriers with shooting at .590; season 8.2 ppg. 3/1/99: Daily News: Terriers Earn CK Showdown.

Randy Williams 6-4 forward, All Hallows. 1/99:HS #546. 3/98: Randy scored 9.3 ppg and with Andre Barrett was only sophomore voted to the CHSAA all Bronx/Manhattan.

Shaun Green 6-5 forward, St. Edmund. 1/99: HS #336. 3/98: With seniors Eric Emilson and Bryan McEvoy, Shaun helped his team to CHSAA Div. II South crown past St. Johns Prep and Bishop Ford. 1/28/99 Coach Kevin Pigott of Fordham Prep: Catholic League B division. 'St. Edmund's has made up for the loss of Shaun Green. Sophomore Andreas Pope, seniors Joe Finley and Mike Irwin have made-up for the slack. Irwin is playing his usual intense, smart game.'

Edmund Turkson, 5-9, guard, Salesian. 4/1/99 Gameball #30, Hoop Scoop #33 . Teamed this year with seniors Lamont Clanton and Brandon Stores. His Eagle team won 18 in a row before losing the state Federation Class C title game to Lawrence Woodmere . Next year he'll be the main man.

Andre Kirkland 6-4, power forward, Atlantic City, NJ. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #412. 1/98: HS #126. 7/98: NJ Hoops rating of #26 in New Jersey. 1/99: Andre has transferred from Atlantic City to Pleasantville and with the help of soph Antwan Dozier and junior point, Dujuan McNair his new team is making all the top team polls. 1/5/99: Pleasantville captured its own holiday tourney, knocking off previously-unbeaten Furness (Pa.) in overtime 75-73 and Highland, 73-63. Andre Kirkland pumped in 24 in each game. 1/20/99: Inquirer: Pleasantville boys down Middle Twp. - The Greyhounds, sparked by Dujuan McNair, rallied in the second half for the 71-66 Cape-Atlantic win. Andre Kirkland contributed 18 points and 12 rebounds. 2/99: By the end of February Pleasantville was no longer in the top 25.

Lee Church 6-0 point guard, Boys & Girls. 1/99: HS #347. 3/98: Averaged double figures in points, assists. 12/98: Fellow junior and shooting guard Stephen Cox does the scoring but Lee runs the show. 12/13/98 Daily News: Church Keys B&G. 1/22/99 Daily News: 'Boys & Girls 67, South Shore 65 (2 OT): David Dixon's layup with :02 left gave B&G the Brooklyn III-A win. B&G's Tommy Eddie sank a three-pointer with :04 left in the first OT to force the second. Bron Groomes led the Kangaroos (12-3, 8-3) with 24 points and Lee Church had 14 assists.'

Courtney Pritchard 5-7 point guard, Center Moriches, LI. 1/99: HS nr. 1/98: HS #202. 12/98: Courtney made most LI all county teams as a sophomore, but he doesn't get the national recognition. 12/98: Courtney transferred from CM to Southhampton. 3/14/99: Newsday: 'The East End version of Lethal Weapon III has been a closely guarded secret for much of this boys basketball season. But after Southampton's 83-52 win over Nassau Class B champ Seaford before 1,300 yesterday at the Danzi Athletic Center at St. Joseph's College (L.I.), the trio of Terry Smith, Courtney Pritchard and Darin Miller are anonymous no more.' 3/18/99 Newsday: Southampton's Pilgrimage. 3/21/99 Newsday: STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS / Pritchard Impressive In Southampton Win.

Michael Garrett 5-10, guard, Grady, NYC. 1/99: HS #383. Michael starts for the Grady Falcons in what may be a down year. Great shooter if left free to roam. 2/4/99 Daily News: 'Woody Souffrant hit two free throws with 30 seconds left, then stole a pass at midcourt to seal Grady's 61-60 double-overtime win over visiting New Utrecht yesterday. With two seconds left, Mike Garrett hit a three-pointer from the top of the key to tie it.'

John Conner 5-11, shooting guard, LaSalle, NY. 1/99: HS #242. 1/98: HS #184. Senior Green and junior Callebrero are main men, but John provides help and promise for the future. Next year LaSalle loses Green but gains Rodney Eperson and Famous Brown from JV. 10/98: John's school is listed as Beach Channel for IS8 fall classic. Big loss for Cardinals.

Johnnie Morant, 6-5, forward, Parsipanny Hills. NJ Hoops #24. Johnnie made the all-Morris county first team for NJ Hoops and for NJO. He saved his best for last when he scored a career high 27 as his team lost to Mendham in the county final. 4/99: JVF43: 'Johnnie Morant - I hear he's going to play football for Rutgers.'

Kareem Glover, 6-4, forward, Boys & Girls. 4/1/99 Gameball #33, Hoop Scoop #31. Kareem played for the Jaguars at IS8 in the spring of 1998. Next year's Kangaroos will be led by their senior backcourt of Lee Church and Stephon Cox. Highly rated 6-4, Tommie Eddie will be a junior. He and Kareem will be counted on to get it done in close. Last April's Newsday quote still applies: ' 'Boys & Girls maturing trio of Stephon Cox, Lee Church and Kareem Glover will make for a much-improved team.'

Darnell Miller 6-3, forward, St. Raymond, Bx. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #600. 1/99: Darnell is on the Ravens' varsity but playing behind soph Chris McRae.

Marcus Bullock 6-1, guard East Cherry Hill, NJ. 1/99: HS #1000+, NJ Hoops nr? Marcus had a great '98 summer for the Cougars, including leading them to the Metro classic final four.

Cliffone Ault, 6-0, guard, Erasmus. NY. 4/1/99 Gameball #81, Hoop Scoop #77. Senior, Ray Abellard was the Dutchman star this season but Cliffone is honing his game at IS8 with the Randy Terry team, alhough he usually plays for Brooklyn USA. He should be next year's go to guy. Cliffone made both the Daily News and Post (they called him George) PSAL honorable mentions teams.

Eric Ferguson, 6-0, guard, Hempstead, LI. 4/25/99 Newsday: 'A second-team All-Long Island selection a year ago, Eric Ferguson carried Hempstead to yet another Nassau Class A championship. The shooting guard averaged 16 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists and 5 steals in 25 games. He has 803 career points. A year ago, Ferguson was a key figure in the Tigers' run to the state public schools Class A title game. Hempstead wasn't nearly as strong this year, but Ferguson and Co. took their game to another level during the playoffs. Coach Ted Adams said Ferguson has great court vision and anticipation, but needs to work on becoming a more consistent shooter. "His skills are beyond even his comprehension at the moment," Adams said. "He's a kid with a lot of talent, but doesn't really know the game that well at this point."

Tony Cherry 6-1, forward, Archbishop Molly, NY. 1/99: HS #230. 1/98: HS #172. Tony is nowhere to be found on Molly roster. 4/2/98: Tony playing in Wheelchair Classic for Baldwin HS. He's built more like a football player than a basketball player, but does well scoring seven points in game.

John Hemmingway, 6-1, guard, Long Island City, NY. 4/1/99 Gameball #27; Hoop Scoop #22.

Henry Moore 5-6, guard, Hale, NY.

Steve Hartwig, 6-4, center, St. Francis Prep, NY. 4/1/99 Gameball #55, Hoop Scoop #91. Steve is the only real height on the Terriers' team which relies on a motion offense and outside shooting. He scored 25 points against St. Peters in their opening round win in the CHSAA playoffs - that may be a promising sign for next year. 5/2/99: 'Steve Hartwig is the 6-4 center for St. Francis Prep's school team. Kevin White's father tells me that Steve is playing for the Riverside Church B team at IS8. That's nice for Steve and the Church, but it's a killer for the Terriers - they could use his size.'

Dan Naturale, 6-4, forward, Seton Hall Prep. NJ Hoops #37. Dan was strictly a part time played for the Pony Pirates this year, but in the TOC finals he had his moment in the sun. 3/24/99: NJO: Seton's bench spark clearly all Naturale,

Jarius Mc Callum 6-7, forward, Rancocas Valley. 1/99: NJ Hoops #30, HS #786. Tim Ferguson is the senior star, Jay mans the middle.

Jaared Brown, 6-1, guard, Manhattan Center. 4/1/99 Gameball #84, Hoop Scoop #84. Jaared made the Daily News first team for Manhattan: 'Brown looks best on a slashing drive to the basket or going up for a jumper. The 6-1 junior began the season at point guard, but was moved to shooting guard when it became clear that finding the basket was his forte. "We thought he'd be the point, but then he scored 33 points in our first game," Rams coach Charles Jackson said. Brown ended up averaging 16 points and four assists as Manhattan Center (18-6) reached the PSAL's Sweet 16.'

Pete Mulligan, 6-4, forward, St. Raymond, Bronx. 4/1/99 Gameball #18, Hoop Scoop nr. The Ravens are losing their three senior stars - Mapp, Morton and Nickerson. They have seven highly rated sophomores - Gantt, Kababus, McRae, Hodge, Epps, Goode and Pickney. Pete may have moved ahead of fellow junior, Darnell Miller, but the Ravens will need both of them for senior leadership next year.

Grant Stansbury 6-2, forward, Manhattan Center, NY. 1/99: HS #637. 1/98: HS #212.

Michael Rodziewski, 6-5, forward, CTK, NYC. 1/99: HS #251. 4/98: Michael played with Cook and Z Williams in Wheelchair Classic. CTK is morning line favorite for next year's CHSAA city title and they're crawling with talent. Michael and Juma Allen, above, will have to fight for playing time. 12/98: Mike is eighth man in an eight man rotation, which is better than being the ninth man! He's playing more on the perimeter for CTK than in the paint, which may be good for college preparation.

Ernie D'Orazio 6-1, shooting guard, Camden Catholic, NJ. 1/99: Blue Ribbon? HS #1000+, NJ Hoops #48.

Pat Lynch 6-3, forward, CBA, NJ. 1/99: NJ Hoops # 23. This year's CBA team is deep, so Pat has to share PT with other players.

Bernard Champion 6-6, forward, St. Patrick, NJ. 1/99: NJ Hoops # 25. Solid player on deep and talented team - the minutes are hard to come by.

Dujuan McNair, 5-8, point guard, Pleasantville, NJ. Dujuan made the NJ Hoops first team Atlantic County team ahead of his more heralded teammates, fellow junior Andre Kirkland and sophomore Antwan Dozier. 1/20/99: Inquirer: 'Pleasantville boys down Middle Twp. - The Greyhounds, sparked by Dujuan McNair, rallied in the second half for the 71-66 Cape-Atlantic win.'

Troy Pierson, guard, Wingate, NY. 4/1/99 Gameball nr. Hoop Scoop #68. 4/99 Coach William Stasiuk of Automotive high school: 'saw him several times when he was a sophomore- he was excellent (but kind of small)- he served as the primary ballhandler and top shooting threat- I have heard through the grapevine that he has steadily improved.' 4/20/99 The Daily News PSAL Brooklyn honorable mentioned Troy with fellow juniors Kevin Solano (Midwood), Mike Garrett (Grady), Mike Sherrod (Robeson) and Cliffone Ault (Erasmus).

Robert Waitre, 6'0", guard, St. Edmund Prep. 4/1/99 Gameball nr. Hoop Scoop #113. John M: 'Terrific pure shooter who is also quite clutch with that stroke. Helped John DiFiore's Eagles to a birth in the "Class B" semi finals and a win in the Msgr. King Christmas tournament in the program's 3rd year. Will get a chance to move to the point next year with the departure of Mike Irwin. He played there throughout his CYO career so one suspects the adjustment should be smooth. If so, he will attract interest from many low and mid major programs. If he projects as a "2" exclusively low majors will love his shooting and hard-nosed play but if he makes the move to the point as smoothly as I think he can mid majors may well get involved. Another thing that makes him a valued prospect, a 1300 on the SAT.'

Stanley Bolden, 5-11, guard, New Dorp, Staten Island. 4/1/99 Gameball nr. Hoop Scoop nr. 4/99: Daily News: 'Bolden accounted for 40 percent of New Dorp's scoring this year and led them to the second round of the PSAL playoffs. A 5-11 junior guard, who averaged 19 points and 5 rebounds a game, Bolden did whatever coach Anthony Rafaniello asked. "He just got better and better," Rafaniello said. "He's so versatile. He's a really good shooter who can also put the ball on the floor." Bolden's coming out part came over Christmas when he scored 90 points over a three-game holiday tournament. "He is just a terrific offensive player," Rafaniello said.' 4/4/99 Staten Island Advance: The 1998-99 boys' basketball Advance All Stars were specialists in the uptempo game - Stanley makes their county first team.

Danny Craparo, 6'5 forward, Holmdel, NJ. NJ Hoops #72. 4/30/99 BT of Jersey Hawks: 'played on Holmdel's state champion team in TOC. Good shooter, has size to rebound and can handle.' Danny's father, Dan sr. coaches his AAU team, the Central Jersey Hawks. 6/21/98 R.i.B. finals from Russ Blake: 'Central Jersey Hawks beat Skyriders 61 - 58 in the 16 and under championship game. Justin Tardio led with 21 and Mike Skrocki had 16, many on foul shots at the end. Dave Sands 6-6 so. from St. Joseph's, Metuchen and Danny Craparo 6-3 so. from Holmdel chipped in for the Hawks.'

Jason Krayl 6-3, forward, CBA, NJ. HS nr? NJ Hoops # 28. 1/99: Todd Billet is the senior star, Mike Skrocki the junior guy. Jason and other juniors like Pat Lynch and Chris Delaney fight for playing time.

David Sands 6-7, forward, St. Josephs, Metuchen. 1/99: NJ Hoops #29, HS nr? 4/99: David is providing height for Central Jersey Hawks AAU 17 and under team.

Dan Riches 6'3" Xavier, NY. 4/1/99 Gameball nr. Hoop Scoop nr. John Miciotta: ' Like Waitre he's a pure shooter. Helped the Crusaders to an upset win over #3 seed Bishop Ford in the "Class B" CHSAA playoffs. He is a sturdy "tweener" who has a major college stroke but he lacks quickness. Not a good man-to man defensive player but he can fit into a team concept because he has good instincts and good hands. Division II interest will be great but some D-1's could slip in also. As with Waitre, shooting is a priority.'

Damien Murrell 5'11, point guard, Holmdel High. BT of Jersey Hawks: 'quick point guard, played on Holmdel's state champion team, made it to TOC. Good shot, good handle.'

Nick Thul -6'6 , forward, Hunterdon Central High School. NJ Hoops, #57. 4/30/99 BT of Jersey Hawks: 'Can hit the outside shot, can handle and pass, good on transition and fast.'

Kevin Solano- 6-0, guard, Midwood, NY. 4/1/99 Gameball nr, Hoop Scoop # 39. Kevin usually led the Hornets in scoring this year. Coach William Stasiuk of Automotive high school: 'has a sweet and it seems consistent outside shot- was forced to play the point for Midwood- would benefit greatly if Midwood had a point guard to feed him on the go.' Kevin was not mentioned by NY Post in their all-PSAL selections but he did make the Daily News PSAL Brooklyn honorable mention with fellow juniors Mike Garrett (Grady), Troy Pierson (Wingate), Mike Sherrod (Robeson) and Cliffone Ault (Erasmus).

Simeon Belk 5-9, point guard, Bishop Loughlin, Bklyn. 1/99: Blue Ribbon? HS #1000+. Senior Jason Parker is running the show for this year's Lions. Mike Boynton and Teddy Mumford are helping. Simeon didn't make the varsity according to the Loughlin media guide.

Jamell Kelly 6-1, shooting guard CTK, Queens. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #1000+. Jamell made Blue Ribbon's top 100 NY list, but he is not one of the six juniors on the current CTK roster. With Poole, Mims and Meade graduating, next year may be his time.

Robert Sullivan 6-0, guard, Seton Hall Prep. 1/99: HS nr? NJ Hoops #27. In early '99 Robert is not starting, but starting backcourt of Knight and Mitchell will graduate at year end

Julius Flavors 6-0, shooting guard, Bishop Loughlin, Bklyn. 1/99: Blue Ribbon, HS #1000+ Senior Jason Parker is running the show for this year's Lions. Mike Boynton and Teddy Mumford are helping. Simeon didn't make the varsity according to the Loughlin media guide.

Khari Council 6-2, forward, Msgr. McClancy, NYC. 1/99: Blue Ribbon? HS nr. Senior Darris James and junior Darryl Boykins are the team stars on an athletic, talented but small Crusader team. Khari is needed to hit the boards.

Matt Hudgins 6-2, guard, Absegami, NJ. 1/99: Blue Ribbon? NJ Hoops #65, HS nr.

Carl Bolton 5-8, point guard, McClancy, NY 1/99: #1000+ 1/98: HS #151. 4/98: With fellow soph Boykins, that's a great young backcourt. Team needs a inside banger. 8/5/98: Rich - '. I am pretty sure that Carl Bolton is at Bowne and is looking to transfer (he may have already). When the Hoop Scoop list was originally prepared, he may have been worthy. However, this top 40 list is too high for him.'

Jamel Williams 6-1, point guard, Queens, NY. 1/99: HS 1000+ 1/98: HS #130. 8/5/98 Rich: 'Jamel Williams is a 6-1 guard at Cardozo. When the Hoop Scoop list was originally prepared, he may have been worthy of such a lofty designation. However, this top 40 list is too high for him.'

Johnny Moore 6-1, shooting guard, Morristown, NJ. 1/99:Blue Ribbon, HS1000+ 1/98: HS # 222. 7/98: NJ Hoops not rated in top 100 in New Jersey.

Khalid Rice 5-10, guard, Iona Prep N.Y. 1/99: HS nr 9/15/98: John: 'Finally since you seem to be updating all of our class lists please add the name Khalid Rice to the class of 2000. He is a stocky 5'10 junior from Iona Prep whose strength and quickness make him a solid prospect for middle and low level majors. By my count he's the 7th potential division I prospect from NYC in this class but he is indeed D-1 level so he should be added.'

Wilbur Williams 6-4 forward, Jane Addams, Bx. 9/14/99: 'Wilbur is this site's poster boy for player rankings. We're just now listing him. Gameball doesn't list him in their top 50. NYC Exposure (Leroy White) ranks him as the #33 senior in NYC. The Post (Barry Baum) ranked him as all-city PSAL honorable mention in '98 and '99. The News put him on the Bronx PSAL second team in both '98 and '99. Hoop Scoop (Ron Naclerio) rates him as #218 NY senior of 218. Whew! So much for consensus.' 2/99: Wilbur's junior season ended early with a second round PSAL B loss to Wingate, 57 - 56. He led all scorers with 16.

Rob Zinkowicz, 6-5 forward Union, NJ. NJ Hoops # 26, Hoop Scoop nr. 3/12/99: Union's season ended last year with a loss to Teaneck, despite a good effort by Ron - BRO: Totally Teaneck.

Corey Hepburn, 6-6 forward Frederick Douglass, NY Hoop Scoop #38, NYC Exposure # 43, Gameball nr. Corey played well for the April, 1998 Queens Wheelchair team with Omar and Taliek and had big games for FDA in December, 1998 at the Gauchos Challenge and Capital City Classic. Corey plays for Mario Beras' AAU Harlem Lions.

Paul Vitelli, 6-7 forward, Delbarton, NJ. NJ Hoops # 31, Hoop Scoop nr. With Troy Murphy gone, Paul averaged almost 15 ppg for Delbarton (18 - 8). The final loss was to NJ TOC champs, Seton Hall Prep 76 - 49. BRO put him on their North Hills Skyline division first team. 7/10/99 NJO: Tougher tests give Paul Vitelli opportunity at higher score.

Shaheen Riddick, 5-10 point guard Washington Irving, NY. Gameball # 47, NY Expo. #41, Hoop Scoop # 36. Shaheen made the Daily News PSAL Manhattan second team for his junior year. He ended the season with a bang, scoring 40 in a losing effort against Wadleigh.

Isiah Gomez, 6-8 center Garfield, NJ. NJ Hoops # 32, Hoop Scoop nr. Isiah teamed with senior forward Mike Pero last season to give the Boilermakers a solid frontcourt duo. He made the BRO first team for the B-PSL King division.

Nigel Wyatte, 6-7 center, Curtis, Staten Island. Nigel and senior teammate, 6-6 Rob Lewin were another potent frontcourt duo. Unfortunately both fouled out in the last game of the season - an overtime playoff loss to Canarsie.

Eric Thompson, 6-6 forward, Lincoln Brooklyn. NYC Expo #27, Hoop Scoop nr, Gameball nr. Eric doesn't get much ink playing for Lincoln during the season bur he has been on the two Lincoln IS8 rosters, Team Marbury in the spring of '98 and Steph in the fall.

Donald McCoy, 6-4 forward Canarsie, NY. Hoop Scoop # 43, Gameball # 48 and NYC Expo # 31. 2/24/99: Donald had 28 points in Canarsie's dramatic overtime playoff win against Curtis.

Jason Mizrahi, 6-3, shooting guard, Tri-Valley, NY. 1/99: HS nr. 8/98: Jason stars for his high school team and starts for Coach Carlton Screen's Flatbush Youth Association (FYA) AAU team. 10/6/98: Jason is keeping a journal at Ben Sherman's UNC site, he still has his own site and is contributing to ours.

YESTERDAY'S HEADLINES:

8/9/99 ESPN: Eddie Griffin to land at Seton Hall. Russ Blake@ Insiders Report: 'Griffin Makes It Official -- Eddie Griffin, a 6-9, 205-pound rising senior combo forward from Roman Catholic HS in Philadelphia, PA, committed to Seton Hall today at a 10 AM ET press conference ... Griffin sparkled throughout the summer, including the recent Eastern Invitational Basketball Clinic at College of New Jersey.' Inquirer: Roman star forward Eddie Griffin decides to go to Seton Hall. Bob Gibbons All Star Report: 'Griffin Press Conference -- All Star Report was at Roman Catholic HS in Philadelphia this morning to cover the Eddie Griffin press conference. Griffin, a 6'8 shot-blocking PF with excellent offensive skills both inside and out, announced there that he would accept an athletic scholarship to attend Seton Hall University this fall.' Prepstars: 'Hey, Tommy, Can You Say Raise? Griffin Picks Seton Hall Over UNC. In one week, Tommy Amaker and the Seton Hall Pirates beat North Carolina, Kentucky, UCLA, Syracuse, Connecticut and the rest of the free world for recruits. PA BF Eddie Griffin is headed to Seton Hall, topping off the biggest recruiting week in the history of Seton Hall basketball! Griffin, Andre Barrett and Marcus Toney-El comprise what is the immediate future of the Pirates, and is looks very bright. The times appear to be changing in the Big East, and Amaker is about to become the hottest thing New Jersey has seen since Bruce Springsteen. Griffin is what amounts to a program changer at The Hall. It's almost impossible to underestimate what this means to The Hall's program. Griffin is one of the three best players in the Class of 2000, and likely the top big man in the nation. Let's give credit where it's due: Tommy Amaker and his staff just changed the perception of Seton Hall basketball on a national scale. Here's one college recruiter's take on the Seton Hall situation: "It's the biggest thing that I've seen happen since I've been in the business." Enough said. ...'

7/31/99 Hot Talk: 'Taliek Brown gave me a list Monday that includes St.John's as his leader over Duke, UConn, Michigan, UMass, Miami, Florida, LSU, Alabama, South Florida, UCLA, Kentucky, Ohio State, Rutgers, Notre Dame, Boston College, Syracuse, Florida State, Arizona and UNLV. He may committ to St.John's soon, but Rutgers is a sleeper.

Another rising talent would be 6'7" Kevin Johnson from Milford Academy, CT who is a high-riser. He displays the athleticism to play high-D1 basketball. Right now his list includes Seton Hall, Ohio State, George Washington, St. John's, Rhode Island, UMass and Rutgers. We expect him to probably end up at UMass but you never know what can happen.

James Thomas, a 6'7" workman who loves to bang down low is turning into a very hot property. Clemson, Texas, UNC, Duke, St. Johns and many other high-majors are hot on his tail.

Modibo Diarra, a 6'9" shotblocker from Fitchburg, MA is still raw but shows tremendous potential. Right now he is close to making a decision, possibly within the next few weeks. His short list consists of UMass, Kentucky, Michigan, St. John's and Rhode Island.'

Class of 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003+.