New York City & New Jersey High Hoops

IS8 Nike Spring High School Classic, 2003

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IS8 -- address is 108-35 167 th St. Jamaica, Queens just off  Merrick Blvd on 167 St and 108th Avenue. 

5/23/03 John P Miciotta: 'Unfortunately due to a late start and scheduling I was not able to see the late rally that brought the Gauchos the victory. What I did see however was most of a terrific game in which both sides got outstanding performances from stars and supporting cast alike.

The Gauchos used lights out shooting to race to an early lead. And much of that shooting came from an unexpected source. Lawrence Gavin, started in place of a late arriving Ronald Ramon and was brilliant, hitting shots from all angles. He started at the wing while Russell Robinson and Sundiata Gaines shared point guard responsibilities. While Gavin made clutch shots, Robinson was clutch defensively. He guarded Future Stars' point man AJ Price and kept him from getting off to the kind of fast start he had in the semis.

To their credit, the Future Stars regrouped behind the versatile scoring of Derrick Caracter, and some help from an upperclassman Wesley Matthews. Caracter showed a touch from long range and nimble feet in the post, while Matthews sparked his team by getting several key rebounds, getting to some loose balls on the floor with good hustle and scoring in transition. Only a late run, sparked in part by the Gauchos' bench gave them a 9 point lead at the half. The rally was punctuated by Robinson and reserve JR Mitchell each draining treys, and two nice plays by another reserve Chris Lowery. First, he hustled for a loose ball and drove for a layup and then he made a steal and behind the back pass to Curtis Kelly for a layup.

Once again, the Future Stars withstood the 'chos tough body blow . Matthews drove and made a layup to open the third period and then Arturo Dubois scored and they were on their feet once again. It was here that the Future Stars got some more unexpected help. Marques Cox came off the bench and during a late third, early fourth quarter run which gave Future Stars the lead he was a major factor without scoring a single point. He had three nice assists vs. the 'chos pressure defense, the last of which was a perfect pass to a cutting Arturo Dubois as the final stanza began and gave Future Stars a three point lead. His poise handling the ball allowed Price to look for his shot more aggressively and Price took advantage. In doing so he provided an additional hot hand from deep to compliment Caracter's Cox really did "step his game up" as Pete Edwards says and while his contribution may not have shown up in the scorebook, everyone in attendance saw his good work.

My lift home came calling with just under 3 minutes left so I did not see the rally that propelled the Gauchos to victory. What I can say is that it is only fitting that Sundiata Gaines made the final shot for the win. His scoring, which was punctuated by a record 63 points in a regular season game, only tells part of his story in this tournament. Simply put he was the tournament's best player and gave his team whatever it needed to win, points and everything else.'

5/23/03 Pete Edwards: 'It was another great championship game at IS8. The Gauchos defeated the Future Stars by 1 point on a Yada Gaines 3 point jumper after being down 2 points with 9 seconds left. Russell Robinson got MVP and Yada Gaines got the big award - he was named Player Of The Year @ IS8. Here is the All-Tournament Team for the 2003 season: Player Of The Year - Yada Gaines - Gauchos (Set the scoring record with 63 points).  1st Team Sebastian Telfair - Juice Allstars,  Chris Taft - Starret City, Charlie Villanueva - Panthers, John Mitchell - Mount Vernon,  Kenny Jones - Wide World Entertainment.  2nd Team Russell Robinson - Gauchos,  Ed Berrios - LPAC,  Kaimondre Owes - Starrett City, AJ Price - Future Stars,  Richard Forbes - NYC Finest.  3rd Team - Keith Benjamin - Mount Vernon,  Ronald Ramon - Gauchos,  Zarrett Rogers - Hoop St. Gang,  Rashon Clarke - Panthers,  Chris Noel - Flatbush Youth Association.

Once again I would like to thank everyone who participated in the IS8/Nike Spring High School Classic. The summer tournament will begin near the end of June and feature only returning High School players only no 5th year seniors in this one. Once again thanks to all!'

5/22/03 John P Miciotta: 'The Future Stars used clutch shooting from both the three point line and free throw line by AJ Price to secure an 85-84 win against Starett City and a birth in tonight's IS8 final vs. the Gauchos at 7pm.

After missing a long jumper that would've won the game for Future Stars at the end of regulation, Price bounced back after Saiquan Stone's off balance trey forced the second extra period. He first drained a long trey and then on his team's next possession broke the press with a perfect diagonal pass to Derrick Caracter for a lay-up which gave Future Stars a lead they never relinquished.

After a first half that saw Starett race to an early lead behind the play of Chris Taft and Kaimondre Owes, Future Stars stormed back as the second half began behind six points from Tyrell Biggs sandwiched around a long jumper by Wes Matthews. The last basket in the sequence for Biggs was particularly impressive as, from the right low block, he spun off Taft and with one power dribble hit a pretty lefty reverse lay-up. The move was indicative of a terrific all around game for Biggs which saw him compeiment a 30 point effort from Price with 20 of his own. Caracter added 17 but six were in the extra sessions.

For Starett Owes was spectacular scoring 30 points and truly providing the only steady hand for Starett on the perimeter. He was especially good at the end of regulation when with his team down by for he first hit a nice lefty drive and then alertly flashed into the key, took a pass and hit Josh Thomas on the baseline for a lay-up which forced the first extra session. He has played brilliantly against the area's best players in tough physical games and established himself once and for all as a division one prospect. The team that signs him will get a terrific player, student and kid. Chris Taft added 20 but played and shot tentatively at game's end, partly because of foul problems.

Tonight's final will be a game between two teams made up primarily of underclassmen. So, those arriving at 7 will be treated to a look at the future of New York City basketball on one of the city's most revered stages. It should be a great night.'

5/22/03 Peter Benoit: The Future Stars defeated Starrett City 85-84 in double overtime to advance to the IS8 championship game. AJ Price missed a three point attempt with no time reamning which led to the first overtime. Saiquon Stone hit a three for Starrett City with no time remaning in the first overtime to force the second overtime. The Furture Stars were led by AJ Price (30) as Tyrell Biggs had 20 and Derrick Character had 17 . Starrett City was led by Kaimondre Owes (22) and Chris Taft (20).'

5/21/03  Peter Benoit: 'Future Stars defeated Panthers B tonight at IS8. Future Stars will play Starrett City on Wednesday at 7pm with the winner playing the Gauchos on Thursday at 7pm.'

5/20/03 Peter Benoit: 'I agree with the comments made by Gary Charles regarding how Pete Edwards handled the situation that developed at IS8 over this weekend. With such a marquee matchup Pete could have allowed the game to take place. However the rules of the tournament were not followed and it would be unfair to players, coaches, and fans involved with IS8 if the game went on.'

5/19/03 Coach Gary Charles: I think we all need to commend Pete Edwards in the way he handled the situation with the championship game yesterday. I understand there were a lot of disappointed people yesterday, but he owed it to the Juice All-Stars ( Incidently, Juice and Brooklyn Bridge parted company last August) to give them every single opportunity to straighten things out. Once they did not come up with the proof, Pete did what had to be done, a reschedule of playoff teams that the Juice All-Stars had beaten. The fact that he didn't buckle down under pressure and allowed the game to be played showed the integrity of the man. I.S. 8 is bigger than one player and bigger than one team. I.S. 8 has become part of our New York City culture. What he did was send a clear message to everyone that I.S 8 was not something to tamper with.

5/19/03 Pete Edwards: 'It was brought to my attention Saturday that Shawn James may be too old for the tournament. The rules state 19 & under and you can't turn 20 this year and that includes all 12 months. I spoke to Tiny and the staff of Juice All-stars and told them to please straighten this out and bring some proof of his age. I also told them that if the kid is too old fess up like men and let me do what I have to do. I was on the phone with them all night and was to receive the information today from the assistant Coach Black. I received nothing. I think the kid is innocent in this to an extent. I'm a little disappointed in all the people who come to IS8 because I'm sure someone knew but said nothing. I had no choice but to cancel the game and let the young people who are the right age compete for a legit championship at IS8!'

5/18/03 Pete Edwards: 'IS8 revised playoff schedule -- Tuesday @ 7PM Panthers B vs Future Stars. Wednesday 7PM the winner from Tuesday vs Starrett City. Thursday 7PM Championship, Wednesday winner vs. the Gauchos.'  Web note: The Juice All Stars are out. The championship game was not played today. Starrett City challenged the eligibility (IS8 is a 19 under tourney, player must not be 20 anytime this year) of the Juice center, Shaun James during and after yesterday's game. The championship game, which should have started at noon was officially cancelled at 2:00 PM.  I will try to provide more details soon.

5/18/03 Louis Xifaras (pictured): 'This weekend was a very interesting one for me. Friday and Saturday I was in Atlantic City for the Hoop Group Coaches vs. Cancer Clinic. The Hoop Group ran a great event with a lineup that couldn't be touched by anyone. In the two-day event, the speakers were Gary Williams, Hubie Brown, Phil Martelli, Tom Pecora, Billy Hahn, Chuck Daly, Bobby Gonzalez and Bob Hurley and the event was for a great cause. I then find out on the ride home that Kenny Pretlow, who in my opinion was the definite replacement for Ted Gustus at Loughlin, gets passed over. I guess Loughlin didn't put loyalty as a priority. I felt as well as the people that I spoke to, that Kenny P. was more than deserving of the job, especially that he stuck around after he was overlooked the previous time the varsity position was vacant. Then I get to I.S. 8 Sunday morning for the championship game and I find out the game may not take place because the Juice All-Stars a.k.a. Brooklyn Bridge had Shawn James playing for them who reportedly is over-age

 (can't turn 20 in 2003). With over 300 people packing I.S 8 and the original game time scheduled for 12pm, "Juice" officially didn't arrive until 2:00pm with coach Tiny Morton. No sign of Sebastian Telfair or Shawn James anywhere. The game wasn't played and Juice has been eliminated from the prestigious league. Tuesday the quarterfinal game will take place between Long Island Panthers 'B' against Riverside Church Future Stars, with the winner facing Starrett City Wednesday and the championship game being played Thursday against the Gauchos with all games beginning at 7pm. It seems that basketball in general is turning into a soap opera with all the things going on. College coaching changes, players switching AAU teams, sponsorship deals, cheating, coaches getting into fights, etc. I thought this was all for the kids. If anyone was at the Coaches vs Cancer Clinic this past weekend and after hearing the stories that these legendary coaches spoke about in regards to the fight against cancer, then you really would know what this game is truly about.'

5/18/03 John P Miciotta: The Gauchos and Juice All-Stars each garnered come from behind victories today and set the stage for tomorrow's final at noon at IS8.

In the opening tilt Mt. Vernon raced to an early 19 point edge against the gauchos, who were a step behind the play following last night's upset of the Panthers. Keith Benjamin and Ernie Brown got things going from long range while Dexter Grey and Jon Mitchell provided a physical presence that offset the length of the 'chos young big men Curtis Kelley and Mike Davis.

Ernie Brown showed himself to be one of the areas real sleepers. He has heard mainly from D-II programs and while his diminutive stature has probably scared off coaches at a higher level, his skills, speed with the ball and good decision making are Division I caliber. He also possesses great range on his shot and a nice quick release. All that plus heady quick defense should make him a target for coaches at all levels looking for a quick solid point guard late in the year.

The Gauchos chipped away slowly. Gaines, who finished with 19 points provided the main thrust offensively but he got a huge assist from Davis, who bounced back from getting shots blocked early, to finish with 16 points and a number of key rebounds in traffic.

The Gauchos last push came when trailing by 12 at the beginning of the final stanza, and after Gaines, Ramon (who finished with 12 points) and Robinson got them to the top of the mountain, it was Davis' turnaround lefty jumper off an offensive rebound that gave the 'chos the lead for good and propelled them to a 62-58 win and a birth in the finals.

For Mt. Vernon Benjamin had 16 and Johnson added 13.

The game between the Juice All-Stars and Starett was exactly what one might expect from two teams where the players know each other very well; a nip and tuck affair that had great efforts on both sides from stars and role players alike. Chris Taft had a terrific game for Starrett with 21 points, but Komidrae Owes was great also until foul problems in the 4th quarter. Those two combined with Saiquan Stone's solid defensive effort on Sebastian Telfair to give Starett a 7 point lead in the 4th quarter. Despite 4-16 shooting by Telfair, players like Shaun James, Ramel Bradley and Kojo Mensah played well and Dominic Osei, who's role for Lincoln is that of a tough enforcer under the hoop drained two huge treys to help the Juice crew complete its rally from 7 points back and propel them to the win.'

5/17/03 The Gauchos trailed Mt Vernon after three periods 50 - 38, but they pressed the Knights for the last period, held them to eight points and won 62 - 58.  With Mike Davis (16) and Curtis Kelly (6) inside and the three guards Ronald Ramon (13), Sundiatta  Gaines (12) and Russell Robinson (9) outside the 'chos prevailed. Don't feel too sorry for Bob Cimino's Knights. They're the early favorite for the number one high school team in the region next season. Senior guard Ernest Brown started and scored 12 today. Yes, his quickness and experience will be missed. But the other starters were juniors Keith Benjamin (16),  Dexter Gray (8), and point guard Bryan Browne (6) with freshman Jonathan Mitchell (18).  They've got junior wing sharpshooter Jonathan Smith and eighth grade guard Mike Coburn coming off the bench.

For Juice Shaun Jones was the difference - he scored 23 points and had numerous blocks.  Sebastian (14), Dominic Osei (14), Kojo Mensah (9) and Ramel Bradley (8) chipped in for Juice. Chris Taft had 21 points and 17 rebounds but in the final period Starrett City didn't get him the ball often enough.  Kaimonde Owes (18) and Saquon Stone (14) couldn't turn the tide in the final stanza. 

5/17/03 It will be the Juice All Stars vs. the Gauchos tomorrow at high noon in the IS8 championship game. Juice overcame an dismal 4 for 16 shooting performance from Sebastian Telfair (14) and a stellar 21 point, 17 rebound effort from Starrett City's Chris Taft to win 73 - 67 after trailing by seven going into the final frame. Meanwhile, the Gauchos trailed the Mt Vernon Knights 50 - 38 after three quarters but rallied for a 62 - 58 win behind the three Amigos, Russell Robinson, Sundiatta Gaines and Ronald Ramon (pictured left to right).

5/17/03 John P Miciotta: 'The Gauchos used a great effort from their trio of guards and terrific inside work from Curtis Kelly to upset the three time defending champion Panthers at IS8 last night 93-86.

The Panthers raced to a 10-0 lead before the 'chos could find their legs. A key adjustment by the Gauchos coaches helped. They moved Sundiata Gaines from a wing position to the top of the key. He was able to score with his typical strong drives and that forced the Panthers defense to converge on him, and created chances for wing shooters. Russell Robinson took advantage with several long treys and great drives. They tied the game at 41 on a pair of long treys from JR Mitchell and a follow basket by Curtis Kelly before consecutive hoops, one a steal and basket by Josh Wright put the Panthers in the lead.

The Gauchos put together a decisive third period spurt as Gaines and Robinson were joined by point man Ronald Ramon. In the first half he struggled shooting the ball against the quickness and length of the Panthers but continued to do a nice job running the team. Early in the third stanza he hit a nice twisting drive and that seemed to get him going. He had at least a dozen points in the second half including to of his trademark quick release jumpers.

For the Panthers, Charlie Villenuava was terrific inside but the 'chos rose to meet his challenge thanks to a strong game from Rice freshman Curtis Kelly, who blocked shots, rebounded and finished plays around the basket with more confidence than he had all year. His defensive effort combined with solid free throw shooting by Ramon down the stretch helped the Gauchos put the game away and end the Panthers reign at IS8, at least for now.

In Friday's first quarter final Mt. Vernon took the lead for good with just under 2:30 to go on a follow basket by Keith Benjamin and defeated a stubbron Jersey Jaguar team 81-70. Mt. Vernon overcame a terrific defensive job on Benjamin by Dan Gentile and Keon Reggins thanks to the inside work of Jon Mitchell. Junior Jonothan Smith and guard Ernie Brown made key baskets also.'

5/16/03 John P Miciotta: 'It will be an all-Brooklyn affair in the second of Saturday's IS8 semi-finals. Juice All-Stars and Starrett City posted impressive wins over Future Stars and SONDAY respectively. In each game one of the city's elite players came up big when his team needed it and carried the day.

For the Juice crew, it was Sebastian Telfair, who propelled his team to a 30-9 first quarter lead on the way to 20 first half points and an eventual 85-66 win. Many of them were pro range jumpers, and when he wasn't scoring himself he was setting up teammates. Kojo Mensah and Jamal Dart were the recipients of great passes in transition and Dominic Osei had key offensive boards for scores off Sebastian's penetration.

While Telfair took care of business on the offensive end of the floor, Shaun James anchored the defense for Dwayne Morton's crew. As Pete Edwards said he "punched everything" and kept many of those blocked shots in play, leading to easy transition chances. While he roamed the paint, Osei, Dart and Nyan Boateng helped control the defensive boards. Future Stars opened the game with a big front line of Arturo Dubois, Terell Biggs and Derrick Caracter but Juice controlled the boards with their quickness. AJ Price, Biggs and DuBois had some good moments but Telfair and his teammates were in control from wire to wire.

Game 2 was clearly more competitive. SONDAY started fast offensively thanks to Sean Banks' scoring and Japhet McNeil's playmaking. It took Starrett a few moments to gain their balance but once they did they were very tough. Taft's effort was pivotal. He scored with a variety of post moves and with offensive rebounds for scores. He was a force on the defensive boards. And perhaps most important, his poise passing the ball proved to be just what was needed against SONDAY's pressure defense. He kept Starrett close for much of the first half, when a little help from Xaverian teammate Saiquan Stone in the form of a driving hoop and a subsequent steal and layup brought them to a tie at 41 at the half.

The second half was pretty much a mirror of the first. SONDAY maintained a slight lead for much of the third quarter until Starrett grabbed the lead thanks to Taft, Josh Thomas, and a key three pointer by Kirk Bunn, who looked better last night than at any time since the back injury that sidelined him for much of the high school season. SONDAY used pressure to get back in, and although Starrett's guards struggled at times, the big target of Taft posting up in the middle of the court proved to be a great safety valve for his team. Time and again, they threw it to him and he made the right decision, either feeding his teammates for baskets or just making the right decision to keep the ball moving. Although Taft was the game's dominant player, the spurt that put the game away for good came when he got more help from his friends. A steal by Thomas that led to a layup, a driving basket by Bunn and a clutch trey from Stone took the life out of SONDAY's comeback. SONDAY hurt their effort with poor freethrow shooting and that plus a lefty jump hook that served as an appropriate exclamation point for Taft made the final score 79-71.'

5/16/03 Pete Edwards: 'IS8 time changes - Games on Saturday will be played at 12:30PM & 2PM. The 1st game will feature the winners from tonight( Jersey Jaguars meet Mt Vernon at 6:00 and the Panthers go up against the Gauchos at 8:00). The 2nd game will be the Juice Allstars vs Starrett City.'

5/15/03 Hoop Scoop Visitors: 'Our New York City Editor Ron Naclerio tells us that, except for the New Jersey Jaguars' stunning 71-68 upset of New York Riverside Church, which previously had always made it to the semi-finals and/or the championship game in the tournament, and the fact the Long Island Panthers, which have 11 Division I players, almost lost to LPAC when 5'11 Ed Barrios Bronx (Theodore Roosevelt) NY missed a 3-pointer that circled the rim with his team two points down in the final seconds, it was pretty much status quo in the first round of the IS8 Playoffs last week in Jamaica, NY. The regular season at IS8 this spring consisted of 40 teams, 24 of which made the playoffs and eight of which got a bye in last week's first round. And this sets the stage for the IS8 quarterfinals, which begin tomorrow night at 6:30 PM when the Juice All-Stars with 5'11 Jr Sebastian Telfair from Brooklyn (Lincoln) NY, who is the #1-ranked junior nationally by the HOOP SCOOP, and 6'4 Ramel Bradley from Bradenton (Bradenton School) FL meets Future Stars, which is the younger New York Riverside Church Team, with 6'9 Frosh Derrick Caracter from Scotch Plains (H.S.) NJ, 6'2 Jr A.J. Price from Amityville (H.S.) NY, 6'8 Soph Tyrell Biggs from Ramsey (Don Bosco) NJ, and 6'2 Frosh Desean Gist from New York (Rice) NY. Then, at 8:00 PM tomorrow night, it will be Starrett City, which is the first time this team has participated in the tournament, with 6'9 Chris Taft from Brooklyn (Xaverian) NY, 6'4 Soph Saiquan Stone from Brooklyn (Xaverian) NY, 6'1 Kaimondre Owes from Bronx (Cardinal Hayes) NY, and 6'5 Kirk Bunn from Brooklyn (Bishop Loughlin) NY, versus S.O.N.D.A.Y. Express with 6'7 Sean Banks from Oradell (Bergen Catholic) NJ, 5'10 Japhet McNeil from Middle Village (Christ the King) NY, 6'0 Mitch Buford from Middle Village (Christ the King) NY, 5'11 Soph Chris Martin from Middle Village (Christ the King) NY, 6'11 John Kelly from Wayne (DePaul) NJ, 6'3 Tariq Atkins from Bronx (St. Raymond's) NY, 6'7 Justin Marshall from Middle Village (Christ the King) NY, and 6'8 Dante Mulligan from Pawling (Trinity Pawling) NY. The third quarterfinals game will tip-off at 6:30 PM on Friday night, as the upset-minded Jersey Jaguars with 6'3 Devon Drakeford from Englewood (Dwight Morrow) NJ, who is coming off a 35-point performance against Riverside Church, meets Mt. Vernon, which is made up entire of the Mt. Vernon High School team with 6'2 Jr Keith Benjamin, 6'7 Frosh Jon Mitchell, 6'6 Jr Dexter Gray, 6'2 Jr Jonathan Smith, 6'3 Jr Shanty Robinson, and 5'11 Mike Coburn, who is one of the best 8th graders in the country. The final quarterfinals game, which is scheduled to tip-off at 8:00 PM Friday night, will feature the New York Gauchos with 6'2 Jr Russell Robinson from New York (Rice) NY, 6'1 Jr Sundiata Gaines from Briarwood (Archbishop Molloy) NY, 6'1 Jr Ronald Ramon from Bronx (All Hallows) NY, 6'9 Frosh Curtis Kelly from New York (Rice) NY, 6'8 Soph Mike Davis from Brooklyn (Xaverian) NY, and 6'5 James Barrett from Brooklyn (Lincoln) NY versus the Long Island Panthers with 6'9 Charlie Villanueva from Blairstown (Blair Academy) NY, 6'8 Lamont Hamilton from Milford (Academy) CT, 5'8 Daon Merritt from Bronx (St. Raymond's) NY, 5'11 Cameron Tyler from Bayside (Cardozo) NY, 6'0 Jr Cliff Clinkscale from Ocala (Shores Christian) FL, 6'5 Kyle Neptune from Brooklyn (Friends) NY, 6'7 Soph Antonio Pena from Brookyln (Lincoln) NY, 6'6 Rashon Clarke from Far Rockaway (Beach Channel) NY, 6'6 Eliiah Clark from Winchendon (School) MA, and 6'10 Joachim Noah from Brooklyn (Poly Prep) NY. Our guess is that Future Stars will beat S.O.N.D.A.Y Express in the first semi-finals game on Saturday morning at 11:00 AM and whoever wins the game between the Gauchos and the Panthers will breeze past Mt. Vernon in the second semi-finals game on Saturday morning at 12:30 PM en route to the championship, which will be played at 11:00 AM, Sunday, May 18th.'

5/12/03 This Thursday evening the Juice All Stars play the Riverside Church Future Stars at 6:30 and Starrett City plays SONDAY Express at 8:00 PM.  On Friday the Jersey Jaguars meet Mt Vernon at 6:00 and the Panthers go up against the Gauchos at 8:00.  The Friday winners play at 11:00 and the Thursday winners play at 12:30 on Saturday.  The IS8 championship game will begin at 11:00 this Sunday.

5/12/03 John P Miciotta: 'The remaining six berths in the "round of 8 at IS8" if you will were decided yesterday at Pete Edwards' great stage. The 5 games I saw featured great talent and one major upset.

The opener saw Mt. Vernon get key plays from youngsters to garner a big win over World Wide Entertainment. Eighth grader Mike Coburn, freshman Jon Mitchell and reserve Jon Smith each come up with two key baskets in the closing minutes to preserve the win. Coburn penetrated beautifully for baskets and assists. Mitchell overcame a sluggish start when he moved from the post to the baseline and Smith made key jump shots. For World Wide physical forward Kenny Jones was dominant inside and Nick Carter was typically smart and solid scoring 13 but clutch and smart play down the stretch by Mt. Vernon's young players that complimented a typical scoring game from Keith Benjamin (25 points) was the difference.

Game 2 saw the day's big upset, as the Jersey Jaguars used a terrific team effort rebounding and a great individual effort scoring by Devon Drakeford to upset Riverside Church and hand them their earliest exit in memory at IS8. First and foremost the team effort rebounding was even more impressive than it might have been since it was accomplished without physical forward Malik Powell, and against a front line that included Terrence Roberts and tough Wings Academy forward Elton Barry. Danny Falcon and Miles Orman battled inside but they were assisted by wing man Dan Gentile, who also shot beautifully early. Keon Riggens, who was the smallest guy on the floor got some key rebounds and fed Falcon for a basket in the closing moments. And finally Drakeford, but for him rebounding doesn't even begin to discuss his contribution.

Drakeford finished with close to 35 points and not one basket was window dressing. His team needed every one of those points and he scored in every way a guy can; with deep deep range, from middle distance and on the drive. The Church tried to rally behind the strong play of Roberts, Garfield Johns and Kimani Blaise but they sabotaged their own effort with terrible free throw shooting. That and the Jaguars' poise and smarts secured the upset.

Game 3 saw Starrett City use outstanding inside outside balance to secure a win against rebel. Chris Taft keyed Starrett's inside game not only with his shooting and rebounding but with his passing also. He often found Chris Jackson cutting smartly to the basket or kicked the ball out to shooters. Josh Thomas and Saiquan Stone were a fine tandem on the perimeter. Thomas provided the explosive quickness and penetration that the offense needed although he finished with just 8 points. Stone had 11 points of his own but his passing and decision making were what allowed for Taft's early involvement and provided the spring board for the win. For Rebel Carlos Colazzo and Derek Stansbury were terrific. Collazo finished with 27 in a terrific effort to try and take up the slack for Eugene Harvey's absence but it wasn't enough to offset Starrett's balance.

In game 4 SONDAY advanced by holding off a tough Connecticut Talent team. Connecticut got solid efforts from a pair of fine guards, Jason Brown and Eric Thompson, but they could not overcome a strong inside game by hard working center John Kelly and scoring in transition and on the perimeter from Mitchell Beauford. SONDAY held the lead nearly from wire to wire but Connecticut was tough and smart and would not go away till the final minute.

Game 5 saw the Gauchos leading by 7 late in the final stanza when scheduling considerations forced me to leave. A quick start by Ronald Ramon and Sundiata Gaines got them out to an early lead against Rock Steady but a pair of guards who proved they belonged on a team with that name helped bring them back. Former Rice guard Kenny Eusay had a terrific all around game while FDR guard Randy Minto showed the stroke and defensive quickness that not only make him an outstanding "get" in the recruiting wars for Canisius but show that lots of people supposedly in the know, including yours truly, made a terrible oversight not getting a chance to see him. The 'chos appeared to be in good shape despite the effort by Rock Steady because the early work of Ramon and Gaines was augmented by Russell Robinson, who overcame a slow start and heated up in the second half, Curtis Kelly, who was a defensive presence and contributed several key hoops inside, and Terrell Evans, who filled in for the absent Mike Davis and was tough and solid in the paint.

If indeed the Panthers closed out Saturday's action with a win against a tough LPAC team, (we don't have the results yet) it sets up a great quarter final matchup between the 'chos and the Panthers. All day Pete Edwards was chiding the Panthers' challengers by saying that they were asking "Who's playing for second place??" Indeed the Panthers are worthy champs but yesterday's action indicates that the road to a title which begins vs. the Gauchos will be a difficult one. This year's playoffs will indeed be the battle of the Panthers, a great championship team, against worthy adversaries. The only thing certain is that the basketball will be as intense and competitive as ever at IS8.'

5/11/03 In Saturday's final two games the Gauchos topped Rock Steady 100 - 92 and the Panthers edged LPAC 76 - 74.

In game one the Mount Vernon school team continued to amaze. Playing without their star junior Dexter Grey, they still turned a slim 57 - 56 third period advantage into an easy 86 - 78 win over Wide World Entertainment behind Keith Benjamin (25), Jonathan Smith (14), point guard Bryan Browne (13), Jonathan Mitchell (10) and eighth grader, Mike Coburn (9). WWE's pivot Kenny Jones dominated in the paint with 27 points and several blocks against Mitchell. Unfortunately for WWE Nick Carter (15), Jabari Moore (15) and Mike Mosby (11) were unable to overcome MV's depth.

The Jaguars led the Church 55 - 48 after three periods and held on for a 71 - 68 win as frequent missed foul shots (eight in the third period) doomed the Hawks. Devon Drakeford (23), Dan Gentile (15) and Danny Falcon (13) were the Jaguars' frontcourt scorers while Keon Riggens (6), Shayle Keating (4) and Mike Wasilenko (3) controlled the tempo from the backcourt. Louis McCroskey was a Daily News finalist for a morning brunch and was at St Raymonds for an evening match against Lincoln, but he didn't make IS8 in the afternoon and was missed. Gary Forbes arrived late from the same News' brunch and was barely a factor with six points. The Hawks' Kevin Johnson (15), Garfield Johns (14), Kimani Blaise (14) and Terrence Roberts (8) couldn't take up the slack.

Starrett City led wire to wire against Rebel cruising to a 78 - 66 win as Chris Taft (19), Steve Jackson (18), Saquon Stone (11) and Josh Thomas (8) as only Carlos Collazo with 27 points was able to put up much resistance for Rebel.

SONDAY Express also led wire to wire against Connect Talent with a 76 - 69 win. CT got big scores from their trio of Jason Brown (19), Jeffrey Thompson (19) and center Stanley Myer (10) but John Kelly (17), Chris Martin (16), Mithell Beauford (16), Japhet McNeil (9) and Sean Banks (9) prevailed.

For Friday night's second round games the Future Stars beat the Philadelphia Ballers 90 - 66 and the Juice All Stars took the Panthers B 78 - 70. Six from the Church got to double digits - AJ Price (16), Marcus Cox (15), Derrick Caracter (15), Desean Gist (14), Tyrell Biggs (12) and Wes Matthews (10) - to offset good games from Philliy's Antoine Brown (26) and Kyle Lowrey (15). In the second game Sebastian Telfair (28), Shawn Jones (17), Kojo Mensah (19) and Stew Graddock (9) led the Juice All Stars over the Panthers B 78 - 70 who were led by sophomores Danny Green (25) and Vic Morris (19).

First round games -- LPAC edged past the Ravens 66 - 64 with Ed Berrios (16), Emanueal Padilla (10), Terell Ellington (10) and Luis Figeroa (8) supplying the punch to offset a game high 24 from Ricky Torres and 12, 11 and 10 from Chris Bethel, Ricky Cadell and Chester Taylor.

The Jersey Jaguars took Abyssinian Church 81 - 71 with balanced scoring from Dan Gentile (16), Malik Powell (13), Mike Wasilenko (13), Danny Falcon (11) and Javon Drakeford (10) despite solid efforts from AC's Leslie Simmond (17), Charles Bergeron (17), Denzel Barnes (16) and Latrell Piers (12).

The Philadelphia Ballers outlasted the Rifles 75 - 70 behind their trio of Stephen Jackson (game high 26), Malik Powell (14) and Zach Boyd (11). Dan Hawkins (24), John Miller (15) and Desmond  Fraxier (11) kept it close for the Rifles.

Rebel won their play-off games against the Queens Cobras 77 - 60 with their leader Carlos (Los) Collazo bagging 21 and teammates Clyde Chapman (10), Quentin Merrit (10), Ahmad McClure (9) and Stedford McLeod (8)  The Cobras' Marvin Lawrence had a game high 24 but Jamal Daniel (11), Henry Henning (9) and Devine Jackson (8) weren't able to give enough help.

Rock Steady was just that against the B'Ballers rocking to a 82 - 68 victory as Angelo Whitehurst (15), Angel Alamo (15), Terrell McQueen (14) and Randy Minto (10) bested Amaury Fermin (18), Devon Rhoden (13) and Jarett Mathis (9).

Wide World Entertainment upset Bedford Y 98 - 94 thanks to a game high, round one high of 35 from Kenny Jones. Kenny was helped by Nick Carter (19), Jabari Moore (16) and Clarence Alonzo (15). Bed Y got double digit scoring from Jamel White (18), Jon Ager (16), Eugene Lawrence (12) and Etienne Brower (11) but Lavance Fields and Mamadou Diahkite only got 9 and 8.

Connect Talent upended Real Scout 87 - 81 with Stanley Myers (23), Craig Augustine (20) and Jason Brown outdueling Adedokun Olanewajo (25) and Salvador Patricio (17).

Weeknight games (Wednesday through Friday) are at 6:30 and 8:00. Weekend games will be played at 9:30, 11:00, 12:30,  2:00 and 3:30.  There are no games scheduled for 4/10, the Wheelchair Classic or Easter Sunday, 4/20. The playoffs begin on 5/5 with the top three teams from each division qualifying.

East: 1. Panthers, 2. Rebel, 3. Huntington Roadrunners, 4.Exodus, 5. NYC Finest.  South 6. Bedford YMCA, 7. New York Ravens, 8. Hoop Street Gang, 9. Running Rebels, 10. Starrett City.   Midwest: 11. World Wide Entertainment, 12. Juice Allstars, 13. Rock Steady, 14. Next Level, 15. Knights.   Southeast: 16. Gauchos, 17. Phillie Ballers, 18. Queens Cobras, 19. JYO, 20. New York Skyriders.   West 21. SONDAY Express, 22. LPAC, 23. Abyssinian Church, 24. First Presbeterian Church, 25. SYSM.   North: 26. Future Stars, 27. Queens Rim Rockers, 28. Jersey Jaguars, 29. B'ballers, 30. Springfield Eagles.  Mideast: 31. Riverside Church, 32. Connect Talent, 33. Renaissance Warriors, 34. Keep Your Dreams Alive, 35. Rifles.   Southwest: 36. Mount Vernon, 37. Panthers (B), 38. Real Scout, 39. FYA, 40. Southside.

Rosters

East: 1. Panthers -- Coach Gary Charles. Cameron Tyler, Antonio Pena, Rashon Clark, Torre Thomas, Joel King, Kyle Neptune, Mel Peartt.

2. Rebel -- Coach Robert Boyd.  Derek Sansbury,  Carlos Collazo,  Carvell McLeod,  Eugene Harvey,  Quentin Merritt, Stedford McLeod, Ahmod McClure, Ryan Leak.

3. Huntington Roadrunners: Antonio Aguidio, Arthur Robertson, Mark Johnson, Terrence Moore, James StRobert, Dwayne Whitfield, Kevin Gholsen, Shadrak Numa, Calvin Tullock.

4.Exodus - Derrick Smith, Tyvon Williams, D'andre Brown, Walter Murray, Keith McAllister, Genc Selimni, Javon Parris, Hans Stelzer.

5. NYC Finest. -- Coach Roberto Diaz.  Kenneth Chapman, Jaysen Murphy,  George Peters, Richard Forbes, Derek Williams, David Bucknor,  Shamar Acury, Melvin Clarida, Warren McCallister, Gregory Dwyer.

South 6. Bedford YMCA: Freddy Jenkins, John Ager, Jamel White, Abdoulaye Fall, Terrence Portis, Malcom Peterkin, James Walker, Mamadou Diakhite.

7. New York Ravens - Brian Laing, Gavin Grant, Ricky Torres, Rick Cadell, Chris Bethel, Rich Jackson, Frank Elgar

8. Hoop Street Gang - Coach Barry Knapp.  Rah Chase,  Tom Oswald,  Ron Louis,  Antwan Holmes,  Abu Kamu,  Stephen Dwyer,  Zarrett Rogers,  Todd Kennedy.

9. Running Rebels - Jesse Rumyan, Ryan Losse, Vinny Falzone, Bryan Geffin, Ryan Eisner, Mike Mann, Andrew Cashin, George Kinkel.

10. Starrett City - Chris Taft, Saiquan Stone, Kaimondre Owes, Josh Thomas, Kirk Bunn, Curtis Jackson, Danny Pearson.

Midwest: 11. World Wide Entertainment - Mike Moesby, Lee Allen, Wayne Edward, Simon David, Matt Ross.

12. Juice Allstars Coach Dwayne Morton, Sebastian Telfair, Stewart Graddick, Jamal Dart, Quon Boston, Jelanie Beauford, Taj Gibson, Shaun James, Kojo Mensah.

13. Rock Steady -- Anthony Stukes, Tristan Johnson, Michael Atelford, Randy Minto, Malcolm Grant, Angel Alamo, Basil Leslie.

14. Next Level -- Sam Wallace, James Brown, Edgar McPhelton, Brendan Nieves, Tyson Holley, Victor Alvarez,  Kizmahr Grill.

15. Knights - Marvin Roberts, Joe Connor, Calvin Rhoden, Vernon Teel, Anthony Clarke, Tiny, Michael Johnson, Gordon McKenzie.

Southeast: 16. Gauchos - Chris Lowery, Russell Robinson, Yadda Gaines, Curtis Kelly

17. Phillie Ballers - Kahlil Hartwell, Marvin Kilgore, Brian Nichols, Tristan Crawford

18. Queens Cobras -- Marvin Lawrence, Peter Lawall,  Albert Handy,  Andre lawrie, Donn Richardson,  Devine Jackson,  Brian Spencer,  Justin Foster, Donnie Daal, Fred Dumpson.

19. JYO - Nick Flagg, Devon Sullivan

20. New York Skyriders  -- William Burgotte, Leslie Augustine, Yannick Moissas, Jonathan Rembert, John Ham, Danny Balor, Tyrone Dalin, Melvin Moore, Terik White, Alvin Hudgins, Rohan Beckford.

West 21. SONDAY Express -- coach Artie Cox, Sean Banks, Japhet McNeil, Mitch Beauford, Chris Martin, John Kelly, Tariq Atkins, Justin Marshall, Akeem Gooding, Jared Frye, Donte Mulligan, Brian Beckford, Dionne Mazzelle, Adam Walker.

22. LPAC - Coach Rueben Taverez, Danny Mena, Emmanuel Padilla, Emilio Gomez, Ed Berrios, Jamal Womack, Eric Dunbar, Michael Smith, Andy Cheverres, Kamar Cummings, Francisco Armboles, Louis Figeroa, Anthony Pimble.

23. Abyssinian Church -- Leslie Simmons, Kafele Carty, Greg Johnson, Dondraic Lewis, Derek Jones, Datron Brown, Harvey Bell.

24. First Presbeterian Church -- Donnell Cummings, Fred Munroe, Jenar Harrison, Aaron harvey, Mike Dodd, Larry Williams, Devon Brown, Brian Edwin, Reggie Lain.

25. SVSM.   out of tournament

North: 26. Future Stars: AJ Price, Derrick Character, Tyrell Biggs, Arturo Dubois, Desean Gist, Herbie Allen, Wesley Matthews, Marcus Cox, Eli Whitehead, Willis Kettrell

27. Queens Rim Rockers - Coach Louis Xifaras, 5'10" Nick Hamilton-Lopez (McClancy - Jr.), 6'0" Joe Vargas (Grover Cleveland - Jr.), 5'9" Pete Caris (grad. but no college yet), 6'6" Otoja Abit (Molloy - Sr.), 5'10" Keenan Doliveira (McClancy - Jr.), 5'11" Ian Rogers (St. Francis Prep - Jr.), 6'2" Jamel Ferguson (St. John's Prep - Jr.), 5'9" Troy Mitchell (McClancy - So.), 6'7" Mohamed Lo (McClancy - Fr.), 6'2" Stephen Wood (McClancy - Fr.), 6'5" Thomas Davis (Our Savior New American School - So.), 6'0" Evans Pyrrhon (McClancy - Fr.).

28. Jersey Jaguars - Malik Powell, Don Gentile, Dan Falcon, Shayle Keating, Mike Wasilenko, Javon Drakeford, Ariel Rodriguez, Keon Riggens.

29. B'ballers - Coach Johnnie Mathis -- Alberto Guerro, Joe Rasberry, Dwayne Carr, Devon Rhoden,  Tirso Pena, Michael Gladden, Emiliano Kiday, Ceasar Hernandez, Armand Cipran, Armaury Firman, Raymond Francisco.

30. Springfield Eagles.  - K Stewart, M Holland, M Wells, Trevor Morson, Jeff Fanfan, Pernell Hutchinson, Travis Craig.

Mideast: 31. Riverside Church - Gary Forbes, Kevin Johnson, Garfield Johns, Courtney Johnson, Ivan Marnika

32. Connect Talent -- Otis Lewis,  Marcus Thomas, Jeremy Mosly, Deane Powell, Craig Autrie, Jason Sterling.

33. Renaissance Warriors - coach Darren Quinlan, Jorge Pena,

34. Keep Your Dreams Alive - coach Ron Dennis.  Serge Clement 5'9" P.G. Jr. St. John Prep. Jacques Fulcher 6'2" Jr. S.F. St Johns Prep. Latiff Mctaw 6'0" S.F. Jr. Cardinal Spellman. David McCorkle 6'6" Jr. Alfred E. Smith. Richard Thomas 6'4" S.G. Soph St. Johns Prep, Bryant Dunston 6'7" C/F Jr. St Johns Prep, Keith Hinnant 5'10 P.G. Jr. Bayshore H.S. Bayshore N.Y. Scott Draughon 5'6" P.G. Soph. St. Raymonds H.S. Antoine Rollerson 6'0" Sr. S.F. St. Johns Prep. Gary Graham 6'2" Jr. S.G. St Johns Prep.

35. Rifles - Coach Eric Bennett.  Daquan Bruce, Terron Stowe, Unique Stowe, Daniel hawkins, Jason Holford, Trevon Hughes, Zan Simpson, John Miller, Ray Arnold, Darryl Eilam, Stanley Milien, Desmond Frazier

Southwest: 36. Mount Vernon - coach Bob Cimino, Jonathan Mitchell, Keith Benjamin, Dexter Gray, Chris Dozier,  Bryan Brown,  Stanley Robinson,  Mike Coburn,  Chris Bradley,  Durine Malcolm,  Chris Lowe,  John Smith, Ernie Brown.

37. Panthers (B) - Coach Billy Turnage, Aleek Pauline (5'10"PG St.Mary's 2005), Victor Morris (6'0"SG Cardozo 2005), Danny Green (6'5" G/F St. Mary's 2005), Antonio Pena (6'7" F Lincoln 2005), Tyson Johnson (6'4"G/F St. Mary's 2005), Tyrone Hanson (6'5"SG St.Mary's 2005), Greg Washington (6'9"C Central Islip 2005), Rakeem Vanterpool (6'2 G North Bablyon 2005), Rashad Green (6'3" SG St. Mary's 2006), Kahiem Seawright (6'7" F Uniondale 2005), Kevin Steward (5'10 G North Babylon 2005), Jason Gwaltney (5'10" F North Babylon 2005), Malcolm Grant (5'8 PG Paul Robeson 2006), (5'10 G Bishop Loughlin 2006).

38. Real Scout - Coach Nathan Blue. Malcom "Snoop" Pope, William Harris, Rainier Rickards, Phil Murphy, Salvador Patricio, Mike King, Todd Sowell, Weyimini Efejuku, Adedokun Olanewajo, Lawrence Jolicouer, Jamel Lynch, Latrell Peeks

39. FYA - Dialoo Brown, Willie McPhee, Chris Noel, Mike Heyward, Dominique Jones.

40. Southside - Kevin Huggins, Robert Hampton, Gary Matthews, Anthony McDau, Larry Davis, Marcus Diggs

Game Summaries:

5/9/03 The IS8 first round games are done. The second round featuring the eight first place regular season teams begins with two games tonight and six tomorrow. Tonight's matchups are Juice Allstars vs. Panthers B @ 6:30 and Phil Ballers vs Future Stars @ 8:00. Tomorrow it's Mt Vernon, Wide World Entertainment @ 9:30, Riverside Church, Jersey Jaguars @ 11:00, Starrett City, Rebel @ 12:30, SONDAY vs, Connect Talent @ 2:00, Rock Steady, Gauchos @ 3:30 and Panthers, LPAC @ 5:00.  No games Sunday on Mothers day. The final rounds are next weekend.

5/5/03 John P Miciotta: 'The featured game on the final day of the regular season at IS8 was game two between the visiting Philly Ballers and the Gauchos. Coming off their two wins yesterday, the visitors from The City of Brotherly Love looked primed to take on one of New York's top teams. The 'chos were not helped when they arrived late for the game and incurred the 16 point penalty and began play in the second period. As one would expect they might without the proper time to warm up and get loose the 'chos were sluggish in the early going and the Philly team took full advantage. They have brought with them just six players but the strong front court features talented sophomore Kahlil Hartwell, a reed thin 6'7" forward with all-around skill and a good knack for shot blocking and rebounding. He is bookended up front by seniors Wayne Birden and Dahlek Powell, who are aggressive quick leaping forwards. The frontcourt trio combined with a trio of guards, Marvin Kilgore, Brian Nichols and soph Tristan Crawford to take advantage of the Gauchos sluggish beginning. Crawford in particular was terrific with his explosive ability in transition and solid jumpshot. He and his teammates bumped the lead to 27 before a five point outburst by Ronald Ramon on a typical quick trigger trey followed by a steal and basket brought the Gauchos back a little bit.

In the third quarter it was as if Ramon's outburst had turned on a switch for the Gauchos and knocked the Philly team back on their heels. Ramon continued his hot shooting and was joined at this point by Sundiata Gaines who like all his teammates had started slowly. He got going as he always does, with strong finishes around the basket but once he got loose the treys started falling also. The Gauchos also got important contributions from unexpected sources. Teddy Mack of Rice filled in admirably for the absent Russell Robinson and triggered his team's defense with terrific pressure on the ball. He also gave his team their first lead with a steal and basket as the quarter ran down. The other unexpected contribution came from reserve post man Terrell Evans, a junior from Thomas Jefferson High in Brooklyn. He provided important minutes in relief of foul plagued Mike Davis boxed out well and got several key rebounds.

Philly had one more rally in them and regained the lead briefly as Hathwell Crawford and Nichols made key baskets in a nice rally that erased a 7 point deficit. Baskets by Ramon and Gaines gave the 'chos the lead back and then some stellar point guard play. He did two things very well, first he recognized with Philly's defense extended he could get the ball inside, and he did to James Barrett who responded with four huge baskets all down the stretch. He also made sure they got good looks as they went to their delay game, making the right pass at the right time and forcing Philly to foul. The final was 89-73 in favor of the 'chos. What started out to be a lackluster game turned into a typical IS8 barn burner.

Philly still had a chance to earn a playoff spot with a win over JYO and Hartwell and Crawford had them up 7 halfway through the final stanza. Nick Flagg and Davon Sullivan were helping JYO hang tough though.

In other action LPAC secured a playoff spot with a win against First Presbyterian Church. Although Ed Berrios was absent today LPAC got terrific contributions from standins Kamar Cummings and Terrell Elliston. Fellow reserve Anthony Pimble combined with Emilio Gomez and Danny Mena to provide the spark up front. For First Presbyterian Donnell Cummings and Reggie Lain had strong games in defeat.

As Pete Edwards says the "real season" starts tomorrow with the playoffs. The Panthers will have a tough road to defend their title, since for the third consecutive year, they wear the bull's eye as defending champs. Good luck to all and, as Pete says, "Bring your game not your name"

5/4/03 John P Miciotta: 'The highlight game of the day was the battle for first place in the East Division between Rebel and the Panthers "A" team. The game was full of streaks hot and cold for both sides until the Panthers pulled away with a decisive third quarter spurt. The game featured a terrific individual battle between "the youngster", as Hassan referred to Rebel and Boys & Girls point guard Eugene Harvey, and senior Daon Merritt playing for the Panthers in what is essentially a home gym for him at IS8. Harvey entered the game early in the first period after the Panthers jumped to an early lead. Simply put, each man did what they had to. Harvey went right at the stronger and more experienced Merritt. He drilled a trey right out of the gate and combined with Boys High teammates Quentin Merritt and Carlos Collazo to help Rebel regain its feet. They were ably assisted by Carvell and Stedford McLeod who along with Ahmad McClure battled nicely on the boards even after the Panthers added two late arriving reinforcements, Charlie Villenueva and Antonio Pena.

Rebel lead 48-46 as the third quarter began and that's when Daon Merritt stood up to Harvey's worthy challenge. He defended better, made shots, and got his team mates involved. His work combined with Pena's effort on the boards and finishing plays proved decisive. And as the Panthers began to lengthen their lead Harvey's inexperience showed. Frustrated by their success at denying him the ball, he forced quick shots when he did touch it and that led to easy break opportunities for the Panthers. While Harvey may still be guilty at times of holding on to the ball too long and forcing plays, his decision making is better overall than last year. Despite the bad moments at the end yesterday, make no mistake, the transformation of Harvey from "great talent" to "great point guard" is beginning, albeit slowly. The fans in attendance for that match-up were treated to a wonderful duel between two great point guards; one who will go on to college and become part of New York basketball's rich history, and the other who let everyone know that the future is indeed bright,

This is also "Philly Ballers Weekend" if you will and they took two wins yesterday against the Queens Cobras and NY Skyriders. Unfortunately the score book I saw for them did not have last names so with apologies to our readers I will try and get some names tomorrow after their showdown against the Gauchos and Yatta Gaines who reportedly set an IS8 record in this tournament by dropping 63 in a game several days ago. The Philly Ballers appear to have what it takes to make a nice playoff run with good size, terrific shooting and guards who handle pressure.

In other games today Future Stars handled the Springfield Eagles while LPAC defeated Abyssinian Church behind the inside work of Emilo Gomez and the outside play of Danny Mena and Luis Figueroa. Figueroa was impressive moving the ball, driving to the basket and shooting with range. He's about 6'2" and appears to be a pretty good athlete and a very good basketball player. He's certainly one worth keeping an eye on.'

5/3/03 John P Miciotta: 'The Long Island Panthers two entries in this Spring's IS8 Nike Classic split two games last night. The "B" entry opened with a loss to Mt.Vernon who got their typically balanced effort behind junior Keith Benjamin and soph Jon Mitchell. For the Panthers Brandon Lawley a strong 6'7" junior from Jamaica High played very well around the basket. On the perimeter St. Mary's soph Tyrone Hansen was impressive again. He's long and active in their press and has a great stroke. He needs to become more of a slasher by improving his handle, as well as concentrate more on moving without the ball. If he can develop those things consistantly he will be one of the top players in this class.

Game 2 saw the Panthers' "A" team break open what had been a close game at the half with a 35-11 third period as they beat Exodus. The Panthers trailed 46-44 at the half but their balanced effort overwhelmed Exodus. Joakim Noah, who showed improved hands, and Rashon Clarke was typically active around the rim and running the floor. On the perimeter Daon Merritt, complete with a doctor's note, and Cameron Tyler provided the spark with outside shooting and playmaking. For Exodus Walter Murray and Genc Selimi had outstanding games keeping the team in it until that third period outburst.

A word must be said here about Selimi, because we at High Hoops have him listed as a member of the class of '04 when in fact he's a senior and recruitable for next season. At 6'5" he's a dead eye shooter, a pretty good passer, and has good lateral movement. He had trouble rebounding the ball against the quick size of the Panthers, but he's really a kid with guard size and skills who was forced to play inside and to his credit, he mixed it up and did a nice job. He is definitely a division one recruit, at least at the mid major level. He needs to get stronger, but all the other skills both athletically and with respect to basketball are part of his game. Whomever signs him late will get themselves quite a player.'

5/1/03 This is the final regular season week for IS8. The playoffs begin next Monday, May 5th with the eight division winners getting byes to round two and sixteen other top teams playing Monday through Thursday in round one.  There are no games on Sunday May 11. The top eight play on the following Thursday and Friday, the semis are Saturday May 17th at 11:00 and 12:30 with the cahmpionship on Sunday at 11:00.Match-ups will be decided this weekend.

4/28/03 John P Miciotta: 'This weekend's action at IS8 saw it's share of "smacking's" and close ballgames. Regardless of the outcomes all the games were full of terrific individual efforts as team's battled down to the wire for playoff berths and position.

My IS8 weekend began with the first of several one sided affairs with the Juice All-Stars handling World Wide Entertainment. The Brooklynites got terrific perimeter efforts from the Lincoln duo of Sebastian Telfair and Stew Graddick, who combined with Loughlin's Kojo Mensah to spearhead the Juice team's perimeter attack. They got a huge lift inside from Shawn James, a raw 6'7" player with quickness, long arms, and a knack not only for blocking shots but keeping them in play. Offensively he's got a lot of basic work to do, even with respect to catching the ball but he has quickness size and timing that cannot be taught. Mike Moesby, the heady 6'5" insider who played at IS8 with Huntington in the Fall '02 classic led the way for Worldwide along with Walt Whitman High's 6'7" Matt Ross.

The game that followed between Abyssinian and SONDAY was even more one-sided...with Artie Cox's team getting contributions from everyone save for Japhet McNeil who was on a recruiting visit. After a slow start Brian Beckford was  dominantc. He and John Kelly were the force inside while Chris Martin and Jared Frye had excellent games on the perimeter. Frye is an interesting senior prospect who has signed with Sacred Heart after finishing his high school career at Martin Luther. He is 6'3" with long arms and has a solid floor game that allows him to be an important role player on a talented SONDAY team. If he continues to work and get stronger he will be an important player for the building division one program in Connecticut.

Saturday's final game between the Queens Rim Rockers and the Jersey Jaguars was hotly contested and well played although in the end the Jaguars won by a pretty decisive margin. Senior point man Shayle Keating of Seton Hall Prep remains uncommitted and would be an ideal target for low major programs because of his ability to run a team and defend. He distributed the ball to teammates Dan Gentile, Malik Powell and Danny Falcon. Gentile was terrific moving the ball with crisp passes and making jump shots. Suffice to say that Colgate stole him. He will be impressive in the Patriot League. Powell, the 6'6" forward from Englewood played with great force and quickness around the basket and showed the ability to make outside shots when given enough room. According to sources he may have to go the Juco route but whoever gets him will get not only a fine talent but a nice hustle guy. For Louis Xifaris' team the young guys showed the best. It was nice to see soph Steven Wood, now about 6'2" but still with the great lateral movement that helps him defend on the perimeter. Junior Jamel Ferguson showed a great stroke from deep while freshman Mohommad Lo showed great footwork in the post. With his strength, quickness and balance if he can ever gain the discipline to match his tools, look out.

Sunday's early action saw World Wide and Abyssinian bounce back from Saturday's smackings with great wins. Moseby led World Wide over the Knights while Abyssinian upended LPAC. The Knights are predominantly freshman and sophs and they played very well but fell apart a bit down the stretch. Mike Johnson and Gordon McKenzie showed they will be a talented tandem for Holy Cross next year while Richmond Hill frosh Marvin Roberts and HC frosh Hickman Simmons did a great job battling older, stronger players on the boards.

Abyssinian used great hustle and toughness to battle back from a 10 point first quarter deficit and upset a talented but sluggish LPAC team. Leslie Simmons and Greg Johnson were impressive as was 7th grader Kafele Carty, who held his own in limited minutes. Emilio Gomez and Danny Mena were LPAC's best but the effort just wasn't there and Abyssinian, despite being undersized won every loose ball and got every tough rebound.

Game 3 saw the weekend's biggest upset as Southside used a jumper by Holy Cross' Gary Hawkins with under a minute to go and two free throws by Christ the King frosh Larry Davis to secure an upset over Panthers B. The Panthers had a big advantage inside with soph Kahiem Seawright, Brandon Lawley and physical swingman Tyson Johnson. Tyrone Hanson and Vic Morris had strong games on the perimeter but Southside just kept coming and the more they hung around the more their confidence grew. Hawkins had an awesomec game scoring on great drives and with range on the three. Old Westbury freshman Josh Frazier was terrific on the boards while Davis, despite contributing just those two free throws, did a fine job making decision and helping his team navigate pressure defense.

The day's finale was anti climactic as Connecticut Talent handled Keep Your Dreams Alive behind a balanced effort lead by physical 6'7" insider Stanley Meyers, and Jason Sterling. KYDA had a strong game from Serge Clement and an early burst from Keith Hinnant but could not handle Meyers inside.'

4/28/03 Only one of this Saturday's five games was competitive as the Knights bested Next Level 83 - 80. Kevin Ogleiter (game high 27), Cal Rhoden (20), Marvin Roberts (20) and Anthony Clark (10) scored for the Knights while Denard Harrison (25), Kizmah Grill (11) and Randy Rawlings (11) topped Next Level.

Panthers B flattened Flatbush 99 - 74 as Tyson Johnson exploded for 37. Tyrone Harrison and Brandon Lawley chipped in with 23 and 16, while Chris Noel (16), Sean Watson (16) and Max Menard (10) were high for FYA.

The Juice Squeezed Wide World Entertainment 94 - 66 as Ramel Bradley and Sebastian Telfair had 25 and 24.

SONDAY Express steamrolled Abyssinian 94 - 51 with Chris Martin (19), Brian Beckford (17) and Mitch Beauford (12) leading the way.

In the day's last game the Jaguars pounced on the Rimrockers 100 -78. Malik Powell (18), Javon Drakeford (16), Kevin Riggins (15) and Dan Gentile (14) were too much for Joe Vargas (18), Jemel Ferguson (15) and Pete Caris (10).

The Juice All Stars toppled Rock Steady 87 - 73 and Connect Talent outclassed the Renaissance Warriors 83 - 54 on Friday evening. CT's Stanley Meyer was game high with 25 while the Warriors' Jorge Pena had 23.  Rock Steady got 14 each from Randy Minto and Basil Leslie, but Sebastian, Ramel Bradley and Kojo Mensah dominated with 30, 23 and 12 respectively.

The Thursday evening games were both routs - the Panthers A bopped NYC Finest 73 - 57 behind Rashid Clarke (24), Joel King (19), Cameron Tyler (13) and Kyle Neptune (9) and the Church went gunning against the Rifles 111 - 58 with seven double digit scorers - Garfield Johns (game high 28), Louie McCroskey (18), Ken Johnson (16), Kelvin Nelson (14), Elton Barry (14), Kimani Blaise (14) and Courtney Nelson (10). The Rifles' Daniel Hawkins and Desmond Frazier had 17 and 11.

Wednesday's first game matched two playoff teams with the Church's Future Stars edging the Jersey Jaguars 74 - 72 behind AJ Price (21), Derrick Caracter (17) and Arturo Dubois (13). The Jaguars' Javon Drakeford (16), Dan Gentile (13) and Danny Falcon (13) kept it close. In the second game the Gauchos gored JYO 71 - 57 with Yadda Gaines (22), Lawrence Gavins (12), Russell Robinson (11) and Curtis Kelly (8) doing the damage. Mohammed (18) and Nick Flagg (17) were high for JYO.

The first two Good Saturday games were nail biters with Rebel edging Exodus 75 - 72 and Southside nipping FYA 82 - 81. Anthony McDau, Larry Davis and Kevin Huggins were the Southside big three with 31, 19 and 15 vs. FYA's trio of Chris Noel (17), Jamel McCoy (16) and Max Menard (9).  In the second game Rebel's Carlos Collazo (20), Stedford McLeod (17), Kirk McRae (11) and Ahmed McClure (9) were too much for Exodus' Walter Murray (game high 27) and BJ Suchig (14).  

In the third game Brooklyn Scout: 'Bedford YMCA got a pair of threes from Quincy Douby during a 13-0 spurt midway through the third quarter and went on to defeat Hoop Street Gang 81-77 Saturday in the IS 8 Spring Tournament.  Douby scored 11 of his team-high 24 points in the quarter and helped Bedford turn a 50-45 deficit into a 58-50 lead. Hoop Street battled back behind the 30-point performance of Zarrett Rogers to get even at 70-70 before Jamel White drilled his sixth trey of the contest to give Bedford the lead for good with 2:47 remaining. White finished with 23 points and Etienne Brower added 20 points and solid rebounding for the winners.'

For the fourth game Coach Jason Salamanca: 'I was at IS 8 yesterday watching the Church and they were impressive even though their opponent was a very under talented Connect Talent. But from what I hear, Riverside was playing without their three top guns in Louie McCroskey, Terrence Roberts (St Anthony's) and Mike Nardi ... these are three major division 1 players not to mention two going to the national champs. If these guys actuallly show up they will automatically become one of the favorites at 8. But names won't win at the 8 its their games that will as Mr. Edwards was say.'

The Panthers B won over Real Scout 86 - 73 in the day's fith and final game with all five starters - Vic Morris (20), Kaheim Seawright (19), Tyrone Hanson (12), Tyson Johnson (11) and Dwayne Johnson (11) - reaching double digits. Will Harris (17), Salvidore Patricio (16) and Adedokun Olanewajo (13) led Real Scout.

On Friday 4/18 the B'ballers (aka JFK) easily grounded the Springfield Eagles 83 - 59 and Riverside Church handled Keep Your Dream Alive 90 - 70. The B'ballers' Emiliano Kinaj (game high 30) and Amaury Fermin (21) were high for their team as only K Stewart (21) could score much for the Eagles.  KYDA's Gary Graham (20) and Bryant Dunson (19) needed more help against the Church's Garfield Johns (10), Kimani Blaise (14) and Elton Barry (13).

The Gauchos nearly doubled the Skyriders 101 - 53 on Thursday, 4/17 behind  a 30 point effort from Russell Robinson and 27 from Yadda Gaines. Lawrence Gavins added 13 while only Leslie Augustine made it to double digits for the Skyriders with 11.

The Ravens took the Runnin' Rebels 80 - 58 in the one game played Wednesday, 4/16 getting balanced scoring from Rick Cadell (18), Chester Taylor (16), Dante Chisolm (15), Elvis Lora (13) and Frank Elger (9), while Andrew Cachin (game high 23), Mike Marin (13) and Mike Panella (12) were best for RR. 4/21/03 Coach Jason Salamanca: 'I was at IS 8 yesterday watching the Church and they were impressive even though their opponent was a very under talented Connect Talent. But from what I hear, Riverside was playing without their three top guns in Louie McCroskey, Terrence Roberts (St Anthony's) and Mike Nardi ... these are three major division 1 players not to mention two going to the national champs. If these guys actuallly show up they will automatically become one of the favorites at 8. But names won't win at the 8 its their games that will as Mr. Edwards was say.'

4/21/03 Brooklyn Scout: 'Bedford YMCA got a pair of threes from Quincy Douby during a 13-0 spurt midway through the third quarter and went on to defeat Hoop Street Gang 81-77 Saturday in the IS 8 Spring Tournament.  Douby scored 11 of his team-high 24 points in the quarter and helped Bedford turn a 50-45 deficit into a 58-50 lead. Hoop Street battled back behind the 30-point performance of Zarrett Rogers to get even at 70-70 before Jamel White drilled his sixth trey of the contest to give Bedford the lead for good with 2:47 remaining. White finished with 23 points and Etienne Brower added 20 points and solid rebounding for the winners.'

4/14/03  Louis Xifaras: 'On Saturday, April 12th, 2003, the Queens RimRockers were victorious 67-61 over the Springfield Eagles in the I.S 8 High School Spring Classic. Leading the way in scoring for QRR was Pete Caris (15 points), Keenan Doliveira (McClancy - 14 points) and Jamel Ferguson (St. John's Prep - 13 points). McClancy freshman Evans Pyrrhon (4 points) provided excellent defensive full court pressure to lead QRR's comeback victory. Strong post play from Our Savior New American's Thomas Davis (sophomore - 7 points) and McClancy's 6'7 freshman Mohamed Lo was key in creating easy putbacks, which helped set up our full court defense. Joe Vargas (Grover Cleveland), Nick Hamilton-Lopez (McClancy) and Ian Rogers (St. Francis Prep) also provided strong play throughout the contest to lead QRR to victory. We are now 1-2 and fight for a playoff spot Saturday, April 26th, 2003 at 3:30pm against the Jersey Jaguars.'

4/10/03  Brooklyn Scout: 'Bedford YMCA led for most of the way and posted an 88-78 victory over the New York Ravens in the first game at IS8 Wednesday night.  Jamel White drilled three three-pointers and Etienne Brower added 8 points in the first quarter which ended with Bedford ahead 31-19. The lead grew to 52-36 at halftime and remained in double figures throughout the second half.  White scored a game-high 22 points to lead Levance Fields (16 points), Mamadou Diakhite (13) and Eugene Lawrence (10) in double figures for Bedford, now 2-0 in South Division play. Ricky Torres topped the Ravens with 21 points while Brian Laing scored 15 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter.'

4/6/03 Three of five games are done at IS8 this Sunday as Bedford YMCA edges the Running Rebels 81 - 77, Real Scout takes Southside 71 - 64 and the Juice AllStars level Next Level 81 - 44.  

Bedford relied on  Jamel White for a game high 31 points with John Ager and Freddy Jenkins chipping in for 18 and 14 in the morning's first game. Bryan Geffin (26) and Vinny Falzone (20) were high for the Running Rebels but were unable to win it by themselves.

Salvatore Patricio led Real Scout with 27 while William Harris and Adedokun Olanewajo each had 11. Southside's Rob Hampton canned 26, but only got help from Anthony McDau (10) and Larry Davis (7).

Sebastian Telfair (23), Shawn James (14), Quon Boston (15) and Kojo Mensah (11) ran off to a 28 - 12 first quarter lead, extended to 45 - 25 at the half and coasted to the easy 81 - 44 victory.  The Next Level's Edger McPhelton and Kizmahr Grill each had 10, but that wasn't nearly enough.

The first Saturday game was a run and gun 103 - 82 Real Scout victory over FYA where six RS players scored in double digits - William Harris (24), Adedokun Olanewajo (16), Weyimini Efejuku (14), Todd Sowell (12), Mike King (12) and Salvatore Patricio (10). FYA's Chris Noel had a game high 32 points by scoring 8 in each quarter, but the help from Dialoo Brown (17), Mike Heyward (10) and Dominique Jones (8) couldn't close the 21 point gap.

In the second game Richard Forbes (35) and Derek Williams (20) led NYC Finest to an 81 - 68 win over the Huntington Roadrunners.  They got 13 each from Dwayne Whitfield, Kevin Gholsen and Antoine Aguidio with 8 from both Calvin Tulloch and Arthur Robertson. The scoring was balanced but not quite enough.

SONDAY Express took LPAC 72 - 62 in the third game.

Starrett City got in the win column in the day's last game, easily handling the Hoop Street Gang 85 - 62 behind Chris Taft (19), Kirk Bunn (18), Kaimonde Owes (15) and Curtis Jackson (11).  Zarrett Rogers and Stephen Dwyer had 22 and 13 for HSG.

4/6/03 'My name is Ron Dennis, I am the coach for a team called Keep Your Dreams Alive in The I.S. 8 Spring High School Classic. The reason that I am writing you is due to so many mispelled or mispronounced names in the recaps of our game and roster. Listed below are the correction on all K.Y.D.A. players.  Serge Clement 5'9" P.G. Jr. St. John Prep. Jacques Fulcher 6'2" Jr. S.F. St Johns Prep. Latiff Mctaw 6'0" S.F. Jr. Cardinal Spellman. David McCorkle 6'6" Jr. Alfred E. Smith. Richard Thomas 6'4" S.G. Soph St. Johns Prep, Bryant Dunston 6'7" C/F Jr. St Johns Prep, Keith Hinnant 5'10 P.G. Jr. Bayshore H.S. Bayshore N.Y. Scott Draughon 5'6" P.G. Soph. St. Raymonds H.S. Antoine Rollerson 6'0" Sr. S.F. St. Johns Prep. Gary Graham 6'2" Jr. S.G. St Johns Prep.'

4/5/03 Peter Benoit: 'IS8 - SONDAY defeated LPAC 72-62 behind 18 points from Sean Banks and 16 from Akeem Gooding.  Starrett City defeated Hoop Street Gang, Chris Taft and Kirk Bunn had 19 and 17 points respectively for Starrett.'

4/5/03 Peter Benoit: 'IS8 - SONDAY won easily over First Presbeterian. SONDAY plays LPAC today at 12:30. SVSM and the Playaz are no longer in the tournament as a result their have been schedule changes. The Playaz have been replaced by World Wide Entertainment. SVSM has not been replaced, teams in the West division will now play one team twice in the regular season.'

4/3/03 John P Miciotta: 'Last night's action saw perennial club powers the Ravens and Riverside's Future Stars cruise to easy double digit wins. The opener saw the Ravens, who are new as a team to IS8 although many of their players have starred on Pete Edwards' great stage before, cruise past Starrett City. In the night cap the Future Stars were led by a trio of big men in beating the Queens Rim Rockers. For the Ravens, junior stars Gavin Grant and Brian Laing set the pace early. Additional help came off the bench from soph Rick Cadell and junior Frank Elgar. Cadell who was the best outside shooter on St. Raymond's JV Champs, showed a really nice all around game, setting up teammates and defending well. Elgar a 6'6" junior who was a little used reserve on St. Ray's varsity champs showed Division I athletic ability and quickness. If he can refine his basketball skill he will draw low major looks even though he may never start for St. Ray's. For Starrett City Cardinal Hayes senior Kaimondre Owes was terrific shooting and slashing to the basket. Chris Taft played well in spurts but struggled against the Ravens' overall size and quickness.

In the night cap a trio of big men, juniors Tyrell Biggs and Arturo Dubois along with freshman Derrick Caracter, helped the Future Stars roll over the Rim Rockers. The efforts of the big men were augmented nicely by wing man Eli Whitehead and point man Desean Giest. For the Rim Rockers Jammel Furguson, Otoja Abit and Ian Rogers played well in defeat.'

4/3/03 Coach Jason Salamanca: 'I went to IS 8 tonight and I had a chance to catch most of the Ravens game.  For those of you who were on an other planet this year, look out cause this team will be tough to beat. Chris Taft didn't look comfortable all night. I don't want to say the Ravens are the best team at 8 because I haven't seen all of them yet but this team is probably in the top 3 with the Panthers and SONDAY.'

3/30/03 In the first four games this Sunday Rock Steady took Next Level by 21, Abyssinian won 88 - 75 against First Presbyterian, the Jersey Jaguars rolled over the B'ballers 96 - 60 and Connect Talent stole the game against the Springfield Rifles 73 - 70.

Connect Talent 73, Spingfield Rifles 70.  The Talent's point guard, Craig Autrie scored 12 of his 26 points in the fourth quarter including a perfect 10 for 10 at the foul line.  Connect got 14, 13, 12 and 8 from Otis Lewis, Deane Powell, Jeremy Mosely and Jason Sterling.  Seven Rifles - Daniel Hawkins (13), Stanley Milien (10), Daquan Bruce (10), Jason Holsford (9), Desmond Frazier (9), Ray Arnold (8) and John Miller (8) - couldn't quite get it done. They lost a four point lead with less than a minute and a half left in the game.

Jersey Jaguars 96, B'ballers 58.  The Jaguars have some impressive NJ players. Today, Dan Falcon (21), Don Gentile (15), Javon Drakeford (15), Shayle Keating (12), Malik Powell (9), Mike Wasilenko (9), Ariel Rodriguez (9) and Keon Riggins (7) overwhelmed the B'ballers as only Joe Rasberry (10), Tirso Pena (10), Devon Rhoden (10) and Emiliano Kidaj (8) did much for the B'ballers.

Abyssinian Church 88, First Presbyterian 75.  Abyssinian's Leslie Simmons was the difference late in the game as he dropped 15 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter. He was helped by Datron Brown (20), Harvey Ball (16), Greg Johnson (16) and Domdaic Lewis (14).  AC's Kafele Carty only had two, but he is a seventh grader playing five grades up!  Jenar Harrison of Fisrst Pres. had a game high 25 but the help from Donnell Cummings (13), Brian Edwin (7), Aaron Harvey (7), Mike Dodd (7), Larry Williams (6) and  Devon Brown (6) was not quite enough.

3/290/03 Hoop Street Group 76, Running Rebels 52.  Balanced scoring did it for HSG as Zarrett Rogers, Antwan Holmes, Rah Chase, Ron Lewis and Stephen Dwyer had 18, 15, 14, 10 and 9, while only Bryan Geffin and Vinny Falzone, both with 11, scored double digits for the Rebels.

Springfield Rifles 81, Keep Your Dream Alive 70.  This was a close game throughout as the Rifles' Daniel Hawkins (19), John Miller (14), Ray Arnold (14), Trevon Hughes (9) and Daquan Bruce (8) ultimately outdueled KYDA's Gary Graham (game high 20), Gorge Clement (15), Nate Williams (10), James Fielder (10) and Latief McLau (8).  

Queens Cobras 54, New York Skyriders 47.  In this low scoring game the Cobras' trio of Marvin Lawrence (22), Donnie Daal (12) and Devine Jackson (7) made the difference vs. the Skyriders' William Burgotte (11), Rohan Beckford (9) and Leslie Augustine (8).

Rebel 78, NYC Finest 71.  Carlos Collazzo led Rebel with 24 and Quentin Merritt, Eugene Harvey, Stedford McLeod and Dereck Stansbury had 12, 10, 9 and 8.  Richard Forbes did it all for Finest with a game high 35 and Dereck Williams and George Peters chipped in with 15 and 8.

3/29/03 The IS8 Nike Spring High School Classic, 2003 begins today. There are 40 teams, five teams in eight division. Each team will play the other four teams in its division; that's 80 regular season games over the next six weeks. Weeknight games (Wednesday through Friday) are at 6:30 and 8:00. Weekend games will be played at 9:30, 11:00, 12:30,  2:00 and 3:30.  There are no games scheduled for 4/10, the Wheelchair Classic or Easter Sunday, 4/20. The playoffs begin on 5/5 with the top three teams from each division qualifying.