Summer's Over

Summer’s Over
 
As quick as it happens, the club season of 2017 has come and gone. The spring sets the table and then July takes off and just like that, summer basketball is over.
 
March Kick-Off Events || April NCAA Live Weekends || Memorial Day USA Basketball || Individual Events and Camps || College Camps || All American Camps and Trips || July NCAA Live Weeks  …  It is a lot!
 
It is September 1 ^st, and many in the country are back in school. Focus and priorities have shifted. Fall Official Visits for the 2018 class are in full force. The class of 2019 can now receive unlimited communication from college coaches. The underclassmen will begin what will be many Unofficial Visits. The September 23-24 Live Period is looming. Recruiting truly NEVER ends…
 
Hats off to the players, coaches, parents, team organizers, events and event operators –- many moving parts that fast and that frequent; It is imperfect, but it functions.  
 
At Premier Basketball we aim to run organized events and create a competitive environment of which players can be proud – where they care about TEAM basketball and winning as well as having a stage to perform for coaches in a situation that simulates next level competition. We have some fun things planned for the future.. STAY TUNED!
 
Our mission as the Premier Basketball Report: give an honest and agenda free assessment of players to college coaches to connect the right players to the right programs. We want to do what we can to aide with information, maximize time, and be a conduit for this process. And, we like to have a little fun with it too while we chop it up in the gyms with players, coaches, and families. Serving these players is our passion. We want to set the table for these players with opportunities and we want coaches to be successful with these players.
 
Congratulations to the class of 2018 for finishing strong in your last summer of club basketball. You will be experiencing a lot of “lasts” this year to be quickly followed by “firsts” in college. Slow down, enjoy the moments, and don’t want to be too grown and out of the house too fast – because it’s all coming quicker than you realize. To  many of you, congratulations on a dream realized.
 
 
YOUNG PLAYERS : Non-Scholastic 2017
 
The non-scholastic season is filled with club events, camps, and individual exposure events all over the country. Each one gives us a look at these players in different environments and against different competition. These players showed a particular consistency in their performance and production over the spring and summer.  **NOTE: As it is impossible to see every player at every game at every event they play, and so (like with recruiting evaluation) timing of seeing players can be a factor. We absolutely acknowledge that we did not see it all.  These are some that really caught our eye:
 
2019 Players
 
McKenna Warnock (WI)
Zia Cooke (OH)
Rickea Jackson (MI)
Diamond Miller (NJ)
Kennedy Brown (KS)
Nyah Green (TX)
Jordan Horston (OH)
Hailey Jones (CA)
Ramani Parker (CA)
Celeste Taylor (NY)
Aijha Blackwell (MO)
Lauren Fields (OK)
Taylor Jones (TX)
McKenzie Green (TX)
Teisha Hyman (NY)
Jaida Patrick (NY)
Madeline Plank (NY)
Jada Boyd (VA)
Charisma Osborne (CA)
Tamari Key (NC)
Jaden Owens (TX)
Leilani Correa (NJ)
Jordyn Oliver (TX)
Aliyah Boston (MA)
Chloe Chapman (MD)
Tayianna Jackson (IN)
Samantha Brunelle (VA)
River Baldwin (AL)
** Rokia Doumbia (AR) – (Reclassification)
 
 
2020 Players
 
Cameron Brink (OR)
Hailey Van Lith (OR)
Paige Bueckers (MN)
Caitlyn Clarke (IA)
Jana Van Gytenbeek (CO)
Sara Andrews (TX)
Emily Ryan (KS)
Madeline Burke (PA)
Kylee Watson (NJ)
Hannah Gusters (TX)
Natalija Marshall (NY)
Te-Hina Pao Pao (CA)
Alexandra Zelaya (AZ)
Jewel Spear (TX)
DeYonna Gaston (TX)
Madison Hayes (TN)
Deja Kelly (TX)
Jordyn Merritt (TX)
Harmoni Turner (TX)
Sydney Parrish (IN)
Maddie Scherr (KY)
Daylee Dunn (CA)
Angel Reese (MD)
Allison Campbell (PA)
 
2021 Players
 
Azzi Fudd (VA)
Brooke Demetre (CA)
Greta Kampschroeder (IL)
O’Mariah Gordon (FL)
Kyndall Hunter (TX)
Talia Von Oelhoffen (OR)
Callie Genke (WI)
Aleah Sorrentino (FL)
Ally VanTimmerman (MI)
Jada Walker (VA)
Maryam Dauda (AR)
Olivia Miles (NJ)
Amari Deberry (NY)
Armani Bartlett (TX)
 
2022 (Extra Credit – we try to give the young ones a chance to season their game )
 
Timia Gardiner (UT)
Kennedi Perkins (IL)
 
 
THREES PLEASE
 
As the game continues to spread the floor and we see more “positionless” basketball, it was only appropriate to include a “THREES PLEASE” section to finish things off. As the event schedule evolves each year, each club season has trends that emerge. These are some things that stood out to the three of us, respectively.  
 
 
Mark Williams
 
WorldWide Hoops : Recruiting is a Global Game
 
As American basketball keeps pushing more tournaments (and MORE tournaments), exposure camps, combines, plus the growth of so called expert "Skills Trainers", we are seeing more and more money being spent on the sport, but not necessarily seeing it translate to improvement or actual growth results being seen in players’ developing their game. I am not talking about the hype or a player being pursued by an elite team on a shoe brand circuit. I am talking about seeing a young player’s game grow by adding a pull up jumper, a weak hand push pass off the drive, being able to score in less than three dribbles, and/or a player's basketball IQ grow because they are playing and creating in different basketball actions. (Yes, there are other screens than just a ball screen.) I’d like to see more players be able to knock down wide open shots more consistently, understand when is the correct time for a shot within the flow of the offense, recognize who hit the last three shots and getting their teammate the ball, and “help the helper” on defense. I could go on…
 
What I’d like to see is more player accountability in terms of the refinement to their games. There is an environment of rushing to identify talent young. With many, this seems to come with a pass after they’ve been recognized. When the praise goes up for many, the development (in comparison to the potential) slows down. They want to continue to do the things that brought the praise and recognition, but most of the time, that attention was driven by potential, not a matured game. The goal for development should be a maturation of the overall game and skills.
 
The system of players jumping from team to team, some club coaches meddling with players during the season, players working out with a different trainer every night and spending no time in the gym on their own mastering skills, and parents enjoying the recruiting process more than their daughters gets in the way of development and is helping the basketball world inch closer to us on the competitive scale.
 
This summer I had the opportunity to travel to four different continents to watch many of the top up and coming global players compete in their country championships and FIBA Championships (more details on my experience and travels coming soon in a different article). The cream of the crop will have the opportunity to represent their country some day at the Olympics. The international game has a different mindset on player development: they monitor players
“practice : game ratio”, players are entered into a development system starting at a young age, and countries are developing players’ athleticism. If you’d like to see an example, do some quick research on the French U16 team. 
 
In the past USA players didn't have to worry so much about international players unless they were attending a FIBA Championship, but many of these players have aspirations to play college basketball in the United States before starting their professional basketball careers. College Coaches’ interest in the global game has grown; if you don't believe me I can show you my cell phone call log and text inbox during international events.  Everyone is intrigued and beginning to take note as they look for competitive advantages. These players are taking Division 1 spots that used to be for players in the USA not because they are better athletes or have more potential than American players, but because at the end of the day they are better basketball players skill-wise and have proven they can play unselfishly in a system. Look at some of the recent USA results during FIBA competitions. The concern is not necessarily that we aren’t winning the events (which did happen with the 2015 U16 and 2016 U17 teams), but the trend that the scoring gaps in our wins are shrinking. 
 
The growth of the game internationally can be seen on almost every Division 1 roster in women's basketball. Players and parents need to understand that no longer are you competing only with players at the tournaments you attend, but you are competing with players thousands of miles away who may not even speak the same language for that scholarship.
 
The temptation is to constantly compare players to players. A large majority of player development is a player comparing how they were yesterday vs how they are today. Skill development happens in small increments, which is hard to keep in focus. Part of that player - player comparison is comparing the “recognition” or “exposure”. Nonsense… Seeking recognition is a road that doesn’t end. Do not chase the recognition; chase the growth in your game. Chase the growth, and REAL recognition will come.

Jason Key  
 
2017 TEAM Summer Recap
 
Proclaiming who the best team I watched this summer is virtually impossible with so many top teams spread out in different circuits or not attached to any specific circuit at all. Here are a FEW of the top teams I had the pleasure of watching this summer:
 
FBC United Hunt 17 – Loaded mix of 2018’s & 2020’s, FBC was led by 2018’s Ahlana Smith, Jazmine Massengill and complemented by 2020 super recruits Treasure Hunt & Madison Hayes. FBC walked through almost all competition from the beginning to the end of the summer season.
 
Texas Elite adidas Prime – The adidas National Champions were a TEAM first veteran laden team of all 2018’s lead by the inside-outside duo of 2018’s Cate Reese and Tatum Veitenheimer. Along with FBC & Team Elite, Texas Elite Prime is in the conversation of the best teams in the country.
 
Team Elite Hubbard – The first ever back to back EYBL National Champs did it with a TEAM first, unselfish spirit about them. A veteran team of all 2018’s led by Robyn Benton and Victaria Saxton. Team Elite Hubbard’s defense was the calling card to victory.
 
Sports City U17 – Led by 2019 super recruit Zia Cooke and complemented by 2018’s Taylor Mikesell, Abby Prohaska and 2019 Sammie Puisis, Sports City played with space and pace -- Probably the best shooting team I witnessed this summer with multiple players who could flat put the ball in the basket.
 
San Antonio Finest Cee Lou – Extremely talented roster led by 2018’s Desiree Caldwell, Nalyssa Smith and complemented by 2019’s Nyah Green and sharpshooting McKinzie Green, this team may had some of the best offensive weapons in the country. Along with Sports City, the two best shooting teams I witnessed this summer.
 
Banshees adidas Gauntlet – Led by 2018 Elizabeth Dixon and 2019 Rokia Doumbia, complemented by 2018 Jasmine Carson and 2019 Gabby Gregory, the Banshees athletic style of play produced wins throughout the club season.
 
Philadelphia Belles – Most of this team is returning next year, so watch out on the EYBL circuit. Led by 2019 Celeste Taylor and 2020’s Kylee Watson and Maddie Burke, this very young roster made a run to the EYBL championship game. They will be one of the early favorites to win the EYBL next year.
 
Cal Stars Nike Elite – Led by 2018’s Aquira Decosta, Mckenzie Forbes and 2019 Haley Jones, the Stars caused matchup issues for opponents.  They were a lineup with versatility and skills and they had an incredible summer.
 
Cy-Fair Elite – A loaded roster that played much of the summer without 2018 super recruit Christyn Williams (made the USA u19 roster); Led by 2018 posts Charli Williams, Sedona Prince and complemented by 2018 Madison Williams and 2019 Jaden Owens on the perimeter – Cy-Fair created matchup nightmares on both ends of the court.
 
Boo Williams 16u – Led by veteran 2018’s Shakira Austin and Honesty Scott-Grayson and complemented by 2019 Ashely Owusu, Boo had a terrific inside-outside offensive flow.
 
 
Shane Laflin
 
The Class of 2020 Point Guards
 
An outstanding trend to me that has a giant exclamation point (!!) is that the 2020 Point Guard class is absolutely LOADED! These players are extraordinarily talented, savvy, tough, and skilled. They have poise beyond their years and they all truly love to compete. The game is in good hands!
 
Hailey Van Lith (OR) – this lefty is about business! She is extremely strong and brings a physical element to the game. I’m not sure when the last time I saw a quicker array of “1,2” combo moves from a player, whether in transition or in the half court. The three-ball is there, the pull up is a weapon, and she can get to the rim and finish with contact. She is just about automatic from the FT line. She gets down to guard and competes defensively.
 
Paige Bueckers (MN) – wiry and silky smooth with the rock; just the right combo of fundamentals and flare to her game. She has incredible court vision and passes the ball like a dime on time. Her range is pretty much unlimited and she finishes with a multitude of skills and footwork in and around the paint. I love that she clearly loves the game.
 
Caitlyn Clarke (IA) – almost brings an unassuming presence to the court.. until she is killin you! Clarke is a big guard with all requisite skills. She is a deadly shooter from all over the court and uses change of tempo and subtleties in her handle to create angles to the rim. She talks on the floor and is an effective leader. She has a lot of Sue Bird to her game.
 
Jana Van Gytenbeek (CO)– solid and strong PG who really pushes the tempo of the game. She is a distribute-first player, but I’ve watched her shooting improve over the last year. She is a sponge for knowledge – watch all aspects of her game grow over the next year. An active and energetic defensive player, her leadership quality is contagious.
 
Te Hina PaoPao (CA) – strong and sturdy PG that is cool with the rock like a lot of Cali kids. She has incredible court vision and her timing when leading the execution for her team is impeccable. She is a true lead guard; range on the three helps keep defenses hones. Her performance at U16 USA Trials coming back (decently early) from a knee injury showed a lot about her toughness and heart. One of the real deal players in the 2020 class.
 
Sara Andrews (TX) – do not let this be understated: a competitor! I have seen Sara in many different scenarios, the bottom line is this: in between the lines, there are no friends, only W’s and L’s. She comes from a HS with a PG rich tradition in Irving MacArthur; alumni include Odyssey Sims (Baylor/LA Sparks), Alexis Jones (Baylor/Minnesota Linx), and Tana Driver (Marshall). She relentlessly guards the ball, drops dimes, pushes tempo, and attacks the paint.
 
Emily Ryan (KS) – wiry, poised, and tough; As you watch her team play you see her fingerprints on almost every play. From a defensive possession, to the advance pass up the court to get an easy look, to a pocket pass out of a P&R, she does it all. She impressed me at her stature when she finished multiple times at the rim with contact. She has some Courtney Vandersloot to her game.
 
Allison Campbell (PA) - very good combination of size and skill. Terrific ball handler that can dance with it a bit. Can score in a variety of ways in all three levels; Nice release out to the 3 on the jumper. Charismatic floor leader that knows what options to use and what buttons to push. Very good length and active hands defensively. Elite game and another one of the top PG’s in this class.
 
 
Media
 
There seems to be countless “media outlets” surrounding the game and events now. Is this a positive thing? Sure, of course. It represents interest and growing interest is good. However, like with anything else encountered on media outlets, specifically and especially social media, the source should always be analyzed and scrutinized. Many outlets use the same means to disseminate information. Do not confuse the same platform utilization with credibility. Some of the event write-ups and articles are draped in agenda and warped in atrocious grammar, fact, and spelling inconsistencies. The term “fake news” is a (comedic) buzz phrase right now, but we are seeing more and more surrounding basketball. So, not so fast…
 
Always do your research and discern the credibility of these outlets. Many have backgrounds in the game, whether through coaching in college, high school, or the club scene. A few even have major internet and/or print media backgrounds. Most of your legit sources have a published list of credentials to easily peruse on their website. Remember, some are media, some are a recruiting service, some are both, but many are actually neither…  The point of this is not to anoint who is what, but as a reminder to do your homework. It only takes a minute. Always consider the source. Quality and longevity of work is important.
 
Personally, I question the motivation of anyone claiming to be the “singular source” for coverage of this game. There are too many programs, too many players, too many events, and too many varied styles of play to not want to utilize eyes and opinions to create a healthy dialogue to uplift the athletes and give them a platform for their talents.
 
The petty “media” competition is so silly to me. What is the motivation here? Does your product not speak for itself? Has this become about “who’s who?” instead of providing opportunities for young people? Compete in your production of events, your content, and in the sharpening of your craft and expertise. Once it becomes personal, all of these things suffer. Does anyone remember who won the “popularity contest” in junior high or high school? Me neither..  Are some adults really still fighting that battle?
 
I have seen too many instances where “rankings” and the like do nothing but add pressure to a player, and a lot of the time, it is even coming from the parents. The attention is paid to the spot on a list versus the continued growth of the student-athlete. Sometimes the player becomes “the number” and then they get way from being “the player” or worse, the person. Would I consider these rankings to be an accomplishment? Of course. Do I think the specific number matters? Not at all. It’s all a relative range. Is there some legitimacy to it? I would say so. Work to remain authentic and be honest with yourself in your development as a player. The truth is coming at the next level anyway. You would be wise and well prepared to keep that mindset throughout.
 
Players will be going from an environment rich in praise and attention to one that is demanding with detailed scrutiny. Here’s the thing though, players: you will be much more prepared to handle this transition if you hold yourself honestly accountable in your development. Handle that yourself; don’t make someone force the standard upon you.
 
It’s easy to slide down the path of constant comparison with others. Are you letting someone else define your path through comparison? How others portray their recruiting experience (or how some may portray it for them) has nothing to do with yours. Run your own race and define your own decision.
 
What are your expectations? Is the goal just to arrive at the next level, or to play at the next level, or to be an impact player at the next level? Is the end game here to be seen and/or to count offers? The attention seeking mindset always falters in the long run, and I believe it leads (partially) to the high transfer numbers. In the middle of a heated Sweet 16 game, the amount of offers that are represented on the court will not change the final outcome.
 
Look, don’t get me wrong: I want these players to have multiple offers and options, but I am concerned with the motivation and what they want to do once they gain the “exposure.” Who really sifts through 50 offers? Off the top, 25 weren’t really contenders anyway.. So, that leads to the next question: Who really sifts through even 25 offers? I mean honestly explores them all? And if they did, who in hindsight would do it the same way again?
 
PLAYERS: none of these opinions should carry too much weight with you anyway. Do you want answers? They are in between the lines. Humbly go about your business and let your confidence shine in how you compete, not in your social media accounts. Those numbers don’t count, only the scoreboard and the WIN/LOSS column does. I see a lot of quality collegiate social media accounts whose programs’ win columns are starving.
 
This can never be stated enough: PRODUCTION > POTENTIAL. And 95% of early offers and interest are solely based on potential. Go make yourself a consistent PRODUCER. Seek the path that will truly challenge you enough to do so. Where is the challenge in the club or camp that implies it’s the easy or guaranteed way?
 
 
Empower without Entitlement
 
I am a happy and willing participant in the empowerment of these young women. I think the delicate balance is doing that without leading to a sense of entitlement in them. The WBB game differs from MBB both on the court and off. I think many would agree the end game is just different right now.
 
My hope is that these young women use the game to positively affect their world in however they see fit. Gaining access to education, experiences, internships, professional connections, and the small percentage of whom will make a career out of playing this game for a long time beyond college – all can maximize their benefit to the respective fullest.
 
They deserve a healthy balance of encouragement and accountability: challenges but also a helping hand; people who will mentor them while also letting them find their own way. We can build leaders through this game and leaders inevitably serve others. That’s the name of the game..