Hoop Mountain SW2 - Day 2 Recap

by Harry Rafferty | Monday, July 8th, 2013

BRISTOL, RI – Monday brought a new day of camp that saw much of the same competitiveness and excitement that the first day had. After a full day of basketball, the night concluded with the BABC making the trip down to Roger Williams to first scrimmage Worcester Academy’s camp team for a half, before facing off with MBNation for a half. Here is the recap from the two scrimmages, and a look at some of the other players from the day that impressed.

The BABC jumped out to a quick 8-0 lead via a couple big dunks by Terance Mann and Tyree Robinson, and never looked back against Worcester. Their signature1-2-2 press gave the Worcester guards problems from start to finish, and led to easy transition run outs for the BABC. On top of that, the BABC was patient in the half court, and did not have many bad shots or turnovers.

Tyree Robinson was the story of the scrimmage for Leo Papile’s squad as he was all over the rim throughout the course of the twenty minute half. He accumulated a total of four dunks, each one being more impressive than the last. Johnny Joseph did a great job of setting up teammates, and B.J. Martin was tough down low. Malik James and Henry Bolton both made plays off the bench as well en route to a 35-16 win.  

The game between BABC and MB Natoin was a back and forth affair for the entire 20 minute, showing two contrasting styles and an ideal tune-up as BABC prepares for the EYBL Finals at the Nike Peach Jam.  With four minutes to go, MB Nation took the lead behind a huge three from Jack Simonds.  However, the BABC’s sharpshooter Tyler Nelson answered the call next by knocking down back-to-back three pointers of his own which would ultimately give BABC the lead for good. A late three from MB Nation freshman Shyheim Ulrickson made it interesting at the end, but ultimately the BABC was able to hold on for the one point victory.

Nelson was the best player on the floor in this half, and secured the victory. He knocked down three crucial 3’s over the course of the short scrimmage, and even mixed in an impressive old fashion three-point play as well. Whenever it seemed like MBNation might take the lead for good, Nelson was the guy who would bring the Mainer’s run to a halt. Johnny Joseph was once again good using his incredible speed to get in the lane and create problems for the opposing defense. For The Nation, Simmonds hit a number of big shots and Isaiah Bess made some nice plays at the rim.

Others Who Impressed:

Jesse Browne – The recent Barrington High (RI) graduate impressed with his versatility at the guard position and quickness. He hit a number of shots in both the morning and afternoon games, and showed the potential to be a good on ball defender with his length and lateral speed. He will be starting a Post-Graduate year at Deerfield Academy in the fall.

Christopher DiClemente – The rugged and physical guard has a solid skill set and a knack for putting the ball in the basket. He plays through contact very well, and plays in straight lines as well as anyone at camp.

Jonathan Mitchell – The New York City Native has many of the skills that you expect from a stocky guard from the big apple. He is quick and crafty with the ball, pushes in transition, and bullies through weaker defenders who stand in between him and the rim. He made a living at the foul line and also knocked down shots here and there.

Jared Harper – Harper made the trip out from California for camp this week, and so far it looks like it was well worth his time. The incoming Suffield Academy Post-Graduate showed very well today with his athleticism, basketball IQ, and natural ability. A combo guard, Harper was in attack mode for most of the day and did a good job of leading his Suffield camp team on Monday.

Keyshaun Jacobs – The Beaver Country Day rising sophomore has all of the makings to be a great point guard in the future. He is a phenomenal kid, an extremely hard worker, and has a plethora of natural abilities. He is very quick with the ball, a good athlete, and owns a great feel for the game. If he grows like he looks like he should, Jacobs could end up being the next very good point guard prospect out of Boston.

Lee Messier – Messier continued to stay hot today, knocking down a very high number of three point bombs. He had an unofficial 27 points in his morning game, and is making a very strong argument for being the best shooter at camp.

Matt Donahue – The youngest Donahue we have seen on the grassroots circuit thus far, Matt is a knockdown shooter just like his brothers. He creates his own shot well, and is lethal from anywhere behind the arc.