After Big Summer, Williams to Reclassify at Winchendon
The Boston Warriors were as consistent of an AAU team as you could have found this season. After a spring that saw them turn in impressive results at the Providence Jam Fest, GymRat Challenge, New England Super Regional, and Massachusetts State Tournament, the team didn’t miss a beat as spring turned to summer.
The July open period started with the Reebok Summer Classic where the Boston Warriors captured the Silver Bracket Championship. Then it was off to Orlando where they finished in a three-way tie for the top spot in their pool before advancing to the final 8 of the Bronze Division at the AAU Super Showcase.
But it was their performance at the AAU Nationals that really caught people’s attention. Placed in possibly the tournament’s toughest pool, with perennial powerhouse programs SYF Players (Indiana) and All Ohio Red, the Warriors were at their best. They dismantled All Ohio Red 69-40 and later in the same day knocked off SYF Players 75-72. With another win on the following day, the Warriors won their final pool play game to clinch first place with a perfect 3-0 record. With the top two teams in each pool advancing to the gold bracket, the Warriors and SYF Players would advance. The Players went on to finish 3rd in the nation with their only two losses coming to the Warriors and the New York Gauchos in the semi-finals.
The key component in the Warriors’ strong summer was the play of Akeem Williams. Regardless of the opponent, Williams was both tough and productive. He never backed down from anyone and never had his offensive production stifled. His long list of huge performances included 35 points versus South Florida Elite and 39 points against the SYF Players.
His tough nature and willingness to take on all comers should make him an ideal fit at Winchendon with head coach Mike Byrnes. By repeating his junior year and joining the class of 2010, you can bet the long list of division I suitors Williams began to collect this summer will only grow.
You can also bet the Boston Warriors are looking forward to next year, with Williams in the mix for another season.
Akeem Williams