Hoop Mountain Team Camp – Day 1 Recap

Lucas Shapiro | Saturday, August 6th, 2011

The second annual Hoop Mountain Team Camp attracted programs from a wide geographical radius, spanning from all parts of New England to New York and even Canada. 

Here is a look at who stood out on day one:

Amir Smith (Manhattan Village) - Not only does Smith have the Jacob Pullen beard, but he also scores like him. He had to have scored at least 75% of his team’s points in each game he played. Whether Smith was slashing to the hoop or pulling up for a mid-range shot, He could not be stopped. Whenever it was necessary, he also did a good job of finding teammates when he was driving to the basket.

Ben Millaud (Vanier) - Millard is a  shooting guard with a great feel for the game. He handles the ball well and explodes to the rim with his great first gear. He can score in bunches and from virtually anywhere on the floor. 

Javonm Walker (Vanier) - In a camp setting, defense is almost never played. Walker stood out not only because he could score the ball exceptionally well, but he was arguably the best defender on the court at all times. He also had the dunk of the day where he came down the middle of the lane and dunked all over a defender.

Isaac Carp (Pingree) - At most times, Carp will not be the fastest guard on the court. However, he is a very savvy player with great body control. His right-to-left crossover left many defenders dazed.He also knows how to finish at the rim and take the right angles.

John Spears (Pingree) - Excellent ball skills. While a bit turnover prone, his quickness and coordination were great in transition.

Kyle Lentini (Pingree) - Lentini nearly dunked on a kid to start off his first game, but his highly energetic play did not stop there. He showed off some deceptive athleticism and proved to be a tough cover when he faced the basket.

Michael Fazzoloir (Vanier) - A skinny but explosive big man with a great feel for the post area.

Colin Devlin (Old Lyme)  - Was a man amongst boys in the post. While he doesn't possess great girth, Devlin’s strength seperated him from the rest. His long arms blocked some shots and he finished through contact every time at the rim. Also has a nice baseline jump shot. Could afford to work on his court vision.

Andrew Tyrol (Old Lyme) - While certainly not a pure point guard, Tyrol seems like in the right system, he could light it up. Tyrol is a great catch and shoot player. He's obviously watched some tape of players like Ray Allen and Richard Hamilton because he does an excellent job of moving without the ball.

Jon Fuentes (Milford) - A wide-bodied big man with surprisingly quick feet and soft hands. Fuentes had a great hook shot and pump fake that he went to often. He is immovable in the post.