New Stars Emerge at All-Star Saturday Event

Johnson, Kennedy, Anderson, Penn & Davis

For 18 years, Richard Crocket’s All-Star Saturday event has provided the Columbus community with a dynamic Easter egg hunt as well as a high-level basketball event. Although the basketball all-star game has traditionally featured local talent, for the last couple of years we have reached out further to bring in more statewide talent. This year’s event saw Dayton and Cincinnati send representative to this annual event.  However, the star of the day hails from Columbus, and although the game featured some highly ranked kids, Marcus Johnson (6’0”WF/2020/Columbus), a virtual unknown statewide before the event, announced his arrival with a 26-point explosion and MVP Honors in the middle school game. He didn’t just put up gaudy numbers; he excited the crowd with his above the rim theatrics. Johnson is an extreme athlete with elite explosiveness. He has good length, is fluid and is at his best slashing to the basket. This season, Johnson is running with Chris Anthony’s #6 ranked Ohio Bulldogs squad.  We intend to keep an eye on Johnson, as he has a chance to play at the next level with continued hard work and development.

Beavercreek’s Isaiah Kennedy (5’10”/PG/2020) had another big day as evidenced by his team-high 15 points. Some have questioned the merit of his national exposure, but the last 2 times we’ve watched him compete against other elite players Kennedy has excelled.  A big-bodied lead guard, Kennedy is skilled, plays with poise and does not turn over the rock. Kennedy is a starter on Malcolm Walters’ #1 ranked NEO Shooting Stars squad.  We also have to give props to Dayton’s Sammy Anderson Jr. (5’9”/WF/2020) who came to Columbus and increased his stock.  He just missed making the all-star game at the Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase earlier this month, but his performance on Saturday confirmed for us he is among the best in the state.  Anderson is a threat to shoot it as soon as he crosses half court, and not only is he a perimeter threat, Anderson’s athleticism allows him to get to the cup and finish near the rim.  Anderson is also super smooth and plays with good pace. Anderson runs with his father’s #7 ranked Dayton Swish team.

We also saw some good things from Dominc Penn (5’4”/PG/2020/Columbus) and Von Cameron Davis (6’1”/PF/2020/Columbus), both from Columbus.  Penn is a highly skilled PG with a high basketball IQ and a solid handle, while Davis is a long, athletic big with major upside potential.  Both Penn and Davis are part of a talented Ohio Bulldogs team. Cincinnati’s Darion Henry (6’5”/PF/2020) had some bright spots as did Qian Magwood (5’6”/PG/2020/Columbus).  Congratulations to all of the players selected to participate in this event.

All-Star Saturday Rosters

Photo Gallery

MWA Elite Captures Tourney Crown

2023 MWA Elite-Easter Shootout Champs (6th Grade)

The 2016 travel team season is only in it’s second full week, but already, the 2023 Mo Williams Academy (MWA) is already out to a fast start, with their win at the Easter Shootout in Garfield Heights, OH.  MWA’s 6-0 trek to the championship included wins over Air Attack-Vaughn (26-27), 4^th Quarter (73-17), Lake Erie Defenders (47-27), Air Attack-Baker (60-35) Air Attack-McAfee (49-47) and Hardwork Basketball (49-31).  What’s most impressive about their run is the fact that MWA Elite was playing up in the 6^th grade division! 

With a roster loaded with future stars (i.e., Desh Molton, Andre Wheeler Jr., Jayvon Moore, Cody Head, Dorian Flowers & Marlon Barnes), MWA Elite should be one of the premiere teams in the state this season.  If you want to catch this young dynamic team in action, head over to the Buckeye Prep Invitational Tournament his weekend in Columbus.  MWA’s pool matchup with the North Coast Blue Chips should be a good one!  Congrats to the players, coaches and parents for a job well done!

We also have to give a shout out All-Ohio Red 2020 for bringing home the championship trophy of the Easter Classic in Cincinnati.  All-Ohio ran the table and finished 4-0 on their way to the title. Congrats!

Buckeye Prep Schedule Released (Initial Draft)

Below is a link to this weekend’s schedule.  Coaches should download/copy the document as the coaches’ packet. Sunday’s schedule will be posted at each tournament site.  As always, 95 % of teams will not experience any schedule changes between now and Saturday, however, about 5% may due to last minute cancellations by coaches (you guys are killing me)! It’s extremely important that coaches continue to visit the website for updates as the schedule may change between now and Friday.  The final and official schedule will be posted at each site.  Coaches are responsible for checking for changes.  

In addition, we will not make any additional convenience-type changes (i.e, Friday, early, late games, etc)!  The only changes we will make are for clear scheduling errors (i.e., back to back games, missing games, etc). I know you guys want to avoid extra hotel nights, but we can't schedule around things like that! Plan to play your schedule! Please review the entire schedule closely and alert us if you find any errors. If you have multiple teams in your organization, please review the information in every division for omissions or errors.  If your team is listed and you know you're not coming, please call me ASAP!

For those coaches who still owe a balance, you must settle up as soon as possible before your first game. The site manager and staff will expect your payment when you walk in the door, and do not want to have to track you down all weekend!  Also, coaches need to make sure they read and understand the tournament rules.  All rules will be enforced.  Each team must have birth certificates and grade cards on hand in the case of a challenge.  If challenged (for a $200 fee), teams must produce said documents or face possible forfeits!  Coaches are responsible for their own warm-up basketballs.

Now that those matters are out of the way, we are excited about this year’s field which is 116 temas strong and we believe this weekend should prove to be very competitive!  My staff and I will continue to work hard to ensure your players and parents have an enjoyable experience. Please arrive in the gym with a positive attitude and plenty of patience. As always, we will do our best to respond to phone calls, texts and emails.  Good luck to the teams and players participating in the tournament this weekend and safe travels!

Pool Assignments & Schedule 
Sunday Brackets

Field Set for UA Next Midwest Combine

Last week we published a press release from Under Armour (UA) announcing the creation of the UA Next Combine Series, their newest grassroots basketball initiative for elite 8^th graders across the country.  Beginning in April, UA will commit resources to a series of 6 regional combines to be held in Washington DC, Columbus, OH, Atlanta, GA, Houston, TX, Los Angeles, CA and the Bay Area, CA. Through these series of combines, UA will select the most elite players to participate in their prestigious Elite 24 All-Star Game in New York City.  In addition, select players may get the opportunity to participate in UA’s SC Select (June) and All-American Camps. UA’s newest platform will provide young athletes with exposure to a major shoe company’s representatives, which could result in exclusive opportunities going forward.

In addition to serving as one of UA’s primary media sources for each session, the Buckeye Prep Report will be hosting the Midwest session in Columbus on May 14th.  As part of our responsibilities we were required to both identify and to extend invitations to the most deserving 8^th graders in a 6-state region. We have accomplished our mission and are extremely excited with the talent level of the field we have assembled!  Below is a link to the current rosters. 

In addition to the UA event, the Buckeye Prep Report will be hosting the Elite 60 Midwest Challenge, a separate event on Sunday the 15^th for 20 additional elite 8^th graders.  In addition to the 40 players invited for the Saturday combine, 20 additional players will receive invitations to compete against the best players in the Midwest on Sunday following the UA Combine.  Once again, the competition and exposure opportunities with Sunday’s event will me unmatched at this level.  The Buckeye Prep Report is proud to partner with UA with this exciting event!  Get ready Columbus; the best players in the Midwest are headed your way!

UA Combine Series Midwest Rosters

Under Armour Website

Weekend Tourney Results Causes Shake up at the Top of Power Rankings

NEO Shooting Stars-8th Grade Grassroots Champions

It was a busy weekend for Ohio-based travel basketball teams as a number of ranked teams faced off in various tournaments around the state. Consequently, there have been a significant shake up in our initial Power Rankings.  As a result of winning the Nike Grassroots tournament in Columbus on Sunday, Malcolm Walters’ NEO 2020 team has ascended to the top of our rankings with a 61-56 win over the Family in the championship game.  With their win, NEO 2020 is now considered the #1 team in the state. 

Walters’ squad is big, physical and is difficult guard.  Almost every player on the team looks like they have set up shop in the weight room.  Their not just big, they are skilled and well coached.  If you want to beat them, you had better defend and be prepared to match their physicality. The game we saw, Isaiah Kennedy (5’11”/PG/Beavercreek) showed why he has established a national reputation, as he played better than we had seen him the last couple of times.  A big physical lead guard who has figured out he’s bigger and stronger then his defenders.  Several times he lowered his shoulder and powered his way to the basket.  NEO may have lost Montori Foster Jr. who went over to OBC, but Kenny McElrath (5’11”/P/SG/Twinsburg) may have filled the void nicely. An elite motor and a willingness to secure 50/50 balls will win you a few games.  He’s not just a hustle guy; he can also score the rock. Case in point, against the Ohio Bulldogs, a top 10 ranked team, both McElrath and Kennedy finished with team-high 12 points.  It should be noted that DeDevante Blanton (6'4"/WF/Nordonia) had a big weekend which he parlayed into MVP honors.  Blanton has stretched out and bulked up and just looks like a division I athlete. Clearly his ball skills have improved which he will need if plans to stay on the wing.

In that same division were the Mid-Ohio Pumas Black, who lost to The Family in the semi-finals, Ohio Bulldogs, Rebels Basketball, Dayton Swish and All-Ohio Red, all of whom were ranked. Walters’ squad was powered by Devantea Blanton, Isaiah Kennedy, Darion Henry, Grant Huffman and Kenny McEllrath.  All but McEllrath made the event’s all-tournament team. We had the opportunity to take in some of the 8^th grade action at Reynoldsburg High School on Saturday.  While we were there, we caught a few standouts.

Garvin Clarke-PG 2020

We had heard rumors that there was an elite 8^th grade guard in northeast Ohio that reminded you of a young Terry Rozier (Louisville/NBA).  Well, they were right, Garvin Clarke (5’9”/PG/Cleveland) appears to be the real deal.  Good size for his position, strong, athletic, smart and poised under pressure are only a few of his strengths.  Clarke ran his Rebels Basketball squad like a varsity starter. He limited his turnovers, scored when he needed to and consistently made plays for his teammates.  He made great decisions with the rock and got to every spot on the floor he wanted to.  We could write another paragraph about what we saw with Clarke, but we want to see him again before we give him the full Buckeye Prep Treatment!

His team seemed to struggle a bit, but Carter Gray (6’2”/WF/Springfield) didn’t seem to have any problems putting up big numbers.  The game we saw him, Gray went off for 25 points and made it seem easy. Gray has good length and is a volume scorer.  He can score at all three levels and has a real good nose for the ball.  Definitely worth tracking.  Michigan’s Earnie Saunders (6’2”/WF/Flint) is a freak athlete who plays above the rim and is always in search of an oop. Saunders lit it up at the Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase last September and he’s poised to get some major shoe company love when he laces it up at the UA Next Combine Series Midwest in May. We also really like CJ Anthony (5’11”/PG/Columbus) who can also light up the scoreboard.  He’s at his best attacking the cup, but when he’s feeling his shot his Bulldogs squad is tough to beat.

Clark, Saunders, Kennedy, Zeb Jackson, McElrath, Anthony, Exon, Gray & Robinson

The Dayton Swish has a few pieces in Zierin Exon (6’3”/C/Springfield), a rebounding machine and Keo’te Highhley (5’5/SG/WF/Dayton), both of whom logged in sold performances while we were there.  Other than Amarin Robinson (5’6”/PG/Akron) we didn’t get the chance to secure information about the multiple young prospects on Akron Wolfpack’s team. Robinson was a speedy and crafty guard with an elite handle and an attackers mentality.  We were surprised at how good the Wolfpack was, and the fact they went toe to toe with a top 10 Rebels Basketball team convinced us they need to be on the board. We hope the coach reaches out to us, as the Wolfpack has several prospects that deserve some exposure! Until he re-appeared at the Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase after a 3 year hiatus, we had lost sight of Zeb Jackson (5'8"/PG/Toledo). He still looked good last week, and he was seen putting in work with All-Ohio Red over the weekend. Jackson remains highly skilled and difficult to stay in front of. His team may not be elite at the moment, but Jackson's talent is still evident.

In the 7^th grade division, The Family edged out All-Ohio Purple in the championship game. With All-Ohio Purple’s win over NEO Tru Game on Sunday, Purple has taken over the #1 spot in our Power Rankings. Because we have been unable to connect with Purple’s coaching staff, we don’t have any information about their roster nor their standout players.  Return our calls coach; your guys deserve the recognition!

There is a new #1 in the 6^th grade division.  All-Ohio Red’s win over the Toledo Wildcats vaults them into the #1 spot. The pool play game represented a rematch, as Toledo defeated All-Ohio Red at the Power League in Detroit earlier this year.  Of course, All-Ohio was without the services of Sean Jones and Paul McMillian IV, but a win is a win. The Wildcats finished the weekend 4-1, with wins over SMAC Premier (58-42), All-Ohio NE (46-36), All-Ohio Green (67-9) and NEO Shooting Stars (48-40).  The leading scorers for the Wildcats over the weekend were Nate Houston II, Emoni Bates and Jordan Kynard.

All-Ohio Red 2023-5th Grade Champions

Drew Lavender’s 2023 All-Ohio Red squad was the last team standing, as they won the 5^th grade division crown. With their victory over Maumee Bay Turf, Red moves up 1 spot in our Power Rankings from 4^th to 3^rd.  For the record, the Ohio Rebels won the 2^nd grade division; All-Ohio Red took the 4^th grade title and All-Ohio Red 2019 won the 9h grade division championship.

All in all, it was a great unofficial start to the 2016 AAU season.  As always, we would love to feature more teams and players, but we need coaches and parents to value the exposure and to make the effort to document and send us information.  Next up is the Buckeye Prep Invitational Tournament April 1-3^rd, where a majority of the top 10 ranked teams in the state will put their reputation on the line to play the best!

Buckeye Prep Power Rankings

Another Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase Alum Captures Mr. Basketball

Cassius Winston-Michigan Mr. Basketball

We've been stating for years that the Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase attracts the top talent in the state, region and the country.  This week, Michigan's Cassius Winston collected his state's most prestigious award in the form of Michigan Mr. Basketball.  Winston was an all star in a couple of elite showcases 3 years ago and also participated in the first ever Ohio vs Michigan All-Star Game where he was a standout. The Buckeye Prep Report family would like to congratulate Cassius and his family for this outstanding accomplishment!

Brent Walker Debuts Nationally

Brent Walker-6'4"7th Grader-Huber Heights, OH.

He arrived a virtual unknown, but by the time he left the Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase last week he was already gaining national attention.  At 6'4" and only a 7th grader, the Huber Heights product's size, strength and athleticism caught people's attention last week.  We caught him in action a couple of weeks ago  in a local tournament, but it was not until his performance at our showcase against a higher level of competition that we were truly convinced of Walker's talent and upside potential. He will be running with Marty Finta's All-Ohio Red 2021 squad this spring and summer, so he will have ample opportunity to play at a high level and display his talent to the nation.  As his skill set increases, so will his potential and national exposure.  In all likelihood, Walker will end up at Coach Travis Trice's storied Wayne program where he will get the skill development that could make him a D-I prospect.  Below is a link to a Ty Kish produced highlight tape thats illustrates Walker's talent.  You can catch Walker and his All-Ohio Red 2021 squad in action at our Buckeye Prep Invitational Tournament next weekend.  We can't wait to watch this kid's development!

Brent Walker Highlight Tape
Middle School Hoops TV Article

Simpson Selected Ohio Mr. Basketball

Congratulations to Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase alum Xavier Simpson for being selected as Ohio Mr. Basketball!  For years, Simpson was the face of the Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase, as he attended not just every year, but every session since he was in the 4th grade.  Not only did he attend, he received MVP honors at every event!  He and his family have worked hard for and with Simpson over the years and the award is well deserved!  The Buckeye Prep family is proud of Simpson and his accomplishments and we look forward to following his career at the University Michigan!

Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase Report

Loveday, Land, Baker, Jackson & McCorkle

By most accounts, the spring session of the Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase was a complete success, and in addition to the usual household names who were in attendance, a number of hidden gems were unearthed.  Over 300 players from across the state, region and country descended on Whitehall-Yearling High School to participate in the one-day event.  The day tipped off with an inspiring presentation from Ohio State great, Dennis Hopson, and culminated in a series of very competitive all-star games.

Although it’s very difficult for us to adequately scout our own events, as administrative matters consume our time; we always seem to catch glimpses of a few standout performers.  It goes without saying that all of the players that made the all-star teams should be considered standout performers, especially given the significant talent level in the gym (see all-star game rosters); however, there was several players who caught our eyes over the course of the day, many of whom we had not previously evaluated. 

One such player was Jeremy Baker (6’0”/WF/2020/IN), who’s size, strength and athleticism set him apart from his peers.  We first saw him last year at Ty Kish’s MSHTV Camp in Indianapolis, and his performance on Saturday confirmed what we saw then; the kid is a beast.  We also really liked Pierre Brooks (5’11”/SG/WF/2021/MI), who is a multi-dimensional athlete who’s size; athleticism and skill set allow him to play multiple positions.  From what we saw on Saturday, Brooks’ upside potential is big time. Speaking of Michigan talent, we were also really impressed with the play of Lorne Bowman (5’10”/PG/2020/MI), who was highly skilled, athletic and poised under pressure. Equipped with an elite handle and several go to dribble moves, Bowman was very effective attacking the cup. We had not seen him in a couple of years, but based on his play on Saturday, Zeb Jackson (5’8”/PG/Toledo) should still be considered as one of the elite guards in the state. We don’t seem to get many Cincinnati area kids to oue events, but when we do, they usually can play, as is the case of BJ Bransford, who frequently attends our events, Jared McCorkle and Max Land. In fact, McCorkle and Land were both received Top 5 Awards and have been invited to the UA Next Combine Series Midwest May 14^th. both Huber Heights’ Chris Scott (6’2”/SG/WF/2020/) caught our eye with his length, fluidity and athleticism, as did Jadon Dance (6’1”/WF/2019/IN), Josiah Shamsiddeen (5’8”/SG/2021/MI), Kalen Howell (6’5”/PF/2019/Springfield), , Cavon Butler, Taylor Kreeger, Caleb Crawford, sol Hines, Jaheim Thomas and Willieon Yates. 

Schmidt, Abuhamdeh, Gadson, Wilson & Sizer

In order to be truly elite, a player must display consistency. Seth Wilson, Omar Abudamdeh and Ashton Henderson, all 7^th graders, did just that on Saturday and were rewarded with all-star game selections. One of the most impressive performances of the day was logged in by Wil Sizer (6’1”/PFCincinnati).  He’s big, can score effectively in the paint and rebounds at a high rate.  However, his developing perimeter game, including his ability to shoot and score from the mid-range and beyond the arc suggests his long-term potential is even better than we originally thought. Simply put, Sizer keeps getting better every time we see him!  We had heard a lot about big Skyler Schmidt (6’2”/C/Goshen) and his Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase debut stamped a seal of approval on his talent.  Schmidt is a beast in the paint and is a high level scorer and rebounder.  Good footwork and a soft touch describe his attributes.  Based on what we saw on Saturday, Schmidt is clearly a top 10 player in a talent-rich Ohio. Speaking of big time debuts, Huber Height’s Brent Walker (6’4”/C/2021) attended his first Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase and proved his name belongs among the best in the state.  Big, strong and explosive best describes his game.  Still developing a sold skill set; physically, Walker is among the best in his class.  That All-Ohio Red 2021 squad is going to be a tough out!

We have to show some love to Damaryea Gadson, who just keeps demanding attention.  We saw him in Cleveland a couple of weeks ago and liked his speed and energy, and he duplicated that success here in Columbus, to the tune of an all-star game appearance and Top 5 honors.  It’s not about your name, it’s about your game, and Gadson’s game is worthy of mention.  Michigan’s Keyon Menifield is a super talented floor general who has all the tools to be an elite guard in the future.  Menifield is a wizard with the rock, and his speed and quickness are elite. Super crafty with vision and passing skills make Menifield a problem in terms of scoring and playmaking.  If that wasn’t enough, Menifield is also a pesky defender, which is a must for smaller point guards. Needless to say, Michigan has another elite PG!

In terms of some of the younger players, Najih Wright (4’9”/PG/2023/Loraine) is a small, but dynamic PG who can shoot it, get all the way to the cup, or drop it off to a teammate for an easy bucket.  He came all the way from Jackson, MS. and we’re glad he did, as Khary Sykes (4’7”/PG/2022/MS) was fun to watch.  Lighting quick, tough and aggressive with an elite motor best describes Sykes’ game.  The kid seemed to be everywhere. Ezra Manjon (5’8”/PG/2019/Columbus) was quick and crafty, while Jaheim Thomas (6’2”/PF/C/Cincinnati) has good size, strength and is very explosive. 

Smith, Rumple, Little, Duval & Benton

In the 6^th grade division, Marlon Elliott Jr. (5’1”/WF/Columbus), Evan Unruh (5’2”/PG/Elida) Turner Butty (5’1”/PG/KY) and Tegan Myers all appeared highly skilled, poised under pressure with elite motors.  Also, we can’t say enough about Dayton’s Sellers Little III (5’0”/PG/Dayton)!  Every time we seen him he was attacking the basket and finishing.  High energy and aggressive are his calling cards. Finally, based on what we observed on Saturday, he may be top 10-15 in the state right now. Adam Duvall (6’1”/PF/Beavercreek) already has impressive length for his age, which combed with a solid skill set; suggests he could be real good down the road.  In fact, we plan to track his progress.  William Rumple (5’4”/SG/Auburn) just keeps turning heads.  Tough and hardnosed, Rumple burst onto the statewide stage at the NEO event a few weeks ago and then followed that performance up with an all-star game appearance and Top 5 honors here in Columbus. It was our first time seeing him, but Jamel Smith II can play, as evidenced by his Top 5 selection.  We did not see a lot of him, but we will going forward.  Another event; another all-star selection for Danny Young Jr., who is proving to be a consistent star.

Michigan’s Ashton Henderson has displayed his talents all over the country and has been consistently elite.  Well, he did it again here in Columbus, as his performance was among the best.  Having been battled tested against the best, Henderson if tough to rattle and knows how to score the ball.  He’s not just a scorer; his advanced ball skills and court vision make him an elite playmaker as well. According to his showcase coach, Michigan’s Mason Docks has talent.  If he’s anything like his older brother, Chris Harrison-Docks, a division I standout, Docks’ future is bright. Cecil Benton Jr. did some nice things on Saturday and is now firmly on our radar, as did Deon Horn and Alex Waters.

The more we see the talent level in the class of 2023 (5^th graders), the more impressed and excited we are! This class is turning out to be deep. No one impressed us more than Michael Greenlee Jr. (5’0”/PG/Toledo); a long and athletic lead guard who displayed an almost complete game.  Not only is he effective at getting into the paint and finishing, Greenlee can knock down the jumper as well. Greenlee’s performance was so impressive; he will vault to the top of the class on our top player lists.  We have to mention his AAU teammate, CJ Hornbeak Jr. (5’6”/C/Toledo) who came to Columbus with a rep and confirmed many of the positive things we had heard about him. Hornbeak is a big who rebounds at a high rate and is an effective scoring close to the bucket.  We also think we saw him step away and flash some perimeter skills as well.  Hornbeak is definitely a player to watch going forward.  Staying with the Toledo guys, Justyn Toler (5’0”/SG/WF) also did his thing and made it clear he deserves some attention as well.  Also from Toledo is Deric Jaynes, who is a talented player as well, resulting in his selection to the all-star game, followed by a Top 5 selection.  It’s important to note that each of the above players run with Coach Brad Morison’s Maumee Bay Turf team.  As it’s no wonder we have them ranked #3 in our recently released Power Rankings!

Greenlee, Allen, Frazier, Jaynes & Brandon

Piqua’s Dre’Sean Roberts (5’0”/PG/Piqua) logged in another solid performance and did nothing to hurt his sizable reputation.  We’ve seen him twice now and on both occasions, Marquez Frazier (4’4”/PG/Toledo) has stood out from his peers. As a reward, Frazier got the all-star game nod, where he proceeded to score a game-high 8 points. We were also super impressed with Jyles Brandon, Antaune Allen, Tyron Barnes, Paul Woodard and Blake Lichentenberg (5’3”/WF/Toledo).  Finally, it should be mentioned that Dayton has a ton of talent in this class, some of which we’ve not even seen.  We plan to keep a close eye on this group in the future.  We also plan to monitor the progress of Nino Nesbit, Willie Alexander and Jayson Levis, 4^th graders who more than held his own against the big boys.  We had our first-ever 1^st grader in the house, and from what we here, Lamont Hamilton is a tough little customer who was not afraid to mix it up with bigger and stronger guys.  He could be a good one in the future.

We did not see all of the standout performers, but from what we did see, the event was absolutely brimming over with talent. We can’t wait to see what happens at the fall elite showcase, which is currently scheduled for September 17^th and 18^th at Otterbein University. Several of the players featured in this recap have punched their ticket to the prestigious Ohio North vs South All-Star Game and have partially built a case for “All-State” honors. You can catch many of these players in action at the Buckeye Prep Invitational Tournament in 2 weeks.  Below are links to our Standout Performer list and All-Star game rosters.

Standout Performers

All-Star Game Rosters

Photo Gallery

Adidas Event Scheduled

Loveday Returns to Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase

Zach Loveday-2020

When we talk about young basketball players with big time talent and immense upside potential, we’re talking about guys like Zach Loveday (6’10/C/2020/Gallia Co).  Loveday made his statewide and national debut at the Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase last March (made the all-star team), and he’s been a highly sought after commodity since then.  What makes Loveday such a potential high major prospect; we’ll start out with his size.  Standing just a hair under 6’10 with a 70 inch wingspan, he already has elite size for only an 8^th grader. If that wasn’t enough, Loveday has grown 3 inches since last year and he may not be done growing.  Next, Loveday’s ability to protect the rim at an elite level makes him an instant impact.  If he’s not blocking shots, which he does a lot of; he’s altering and/or forcing bad shots from his opponent.  Want multiple possessions; well Loveday can deliver, as he rebounds at a high rate as well.

According to those close to Loveday’s development, he’s working hard with a local trainer (Nathan Conley), and his offensive skill set and basketball IQ are expanding every day.  Not only does he finish around the rim at a high rate, he can now consistently step outside and knock down the trey.  He has also developed a baby hook, and his passing has improved also.  In addition, Loveday is smarter, and routinely recognizes where the double teams are coming and quickly delivers passes on target to an open teammates. Finally, with his developing offensive game, Loveday may project as a power forward going forward.

All-of Loveday’s talent was on display this past middle school season, as Loveday led his Gallia Academy Middle School squad to a 15-4 record and both an Ohio Valley Conference regular season (10-2) and tournament championship.  Over the course of the season, Loveday logged eye-popping stats, including 15 triple double games.  Loveday scored 20 or more points and grabbed 18 rebounds in at least 5 games. Loveday also had a season high 16 blocked shots. Although he has concentrated on basketball thus far, he may go out for track this season depending on his basketball schedule.

He may be an outstanding basketball player, but Loveday is also well rounded.  Exhibit A, he’s a straight A student with a 3.9 GPA, while also taking honors classes as part of his school’s accelerated program.  Moreover, Loveday plays the trumpet in his school’s honor band, and out of 360 students, was recently chosen play in an honors concert at the Ohio State University. 

Although Loveday ran with the local All-Ohio Southeast last year I the spring and summer, he will take his talents to the West Virginia Wildcats this season.  According to Loveday’s father, Billy, the family was drawn to the Wildcats because of their focus on training, and practices designed around skill development.  Needless to say, for the college coaches who frequent this website, get Loveday on your recruiting board and get him on campus; he’s going to be a good one!  You can catch Loveday in action at the Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase this weekend and at the UA Next Combine Series Midwest in April.

Wildcats Excel at Michigan Tourney

Toledo Wildcats-2022 Spartan Showcase Classic Champions

This past weekend, Tony Kynard led his 2022 Toledo Wildcats squad on a 6-0 run and a 6^th grade championship at the Spartan Showcase Classic in Michigan. In pool play, the Wildcats defeated the Michigan Playmakers (49-28), Muskegon Heat (51-23) and FBC (58-49). In each of those 3 games, Toledo was led in scoring by Emoni Bates, with 17, 27 and 24 points, respectively.  In bracket play on Sunday, the Wildcats made a 3-0 run, with wins over Prospectors (56-41), MBA Fury (51-40) and Oakland Elite (58-46). Emoni Bates (19 points), Jordan Kynard (16 points) and Demarko Craig (15 points) all shared leading scorer honors in the 3 games, respectively.  Congrats to the coaching to the Toledo Wildcat staff, players and parents for repping Ohio basketball.  Next up for the Wildcats is Battle of Magic City tournament in Birmingham, AL. Also, you can catch the Wildcats in action at the Buckeye Prep Invitational Tournament the weekend of April 1-3^rd.

OBC Black Notches Tourney Win

Ohio Bball Club Black-Spartan Showcases Classic Champs

It was a busy weekend for Ohio middle school teams.  The Ohio Basketball Club Black 2021 (OBC) got off to a fast 2016 season with a tournament win at the Alex Doody Super Showcase in Gates Mill, Oh.  For the weekend, OBC finished 1-1, in pool play with a win over the Mansfield Cavs Underdogs (58-27) and a loss to SMAC Future (54-30). On their trek to the title on Sunday, OBC defeated SMAC Future 54-30 and Maximum Potential 59-17 in the first 2 rounds before defeating SMAC Attack 67-60 in the championship game. 

In the final game, OBC was paced by Jayden Ballard who finished with a game-high 25 points, followed by MarSaun Robinson with 11 points and Tae Perie who added 10 points.  For the entire tournament, standouts for OBC included Jayden Ballard, MarSaun Robinson, Tae Perie and Kyree Young.  Next, OBC will take their 4-1 overall record to the Twin Cites tournament next week before heading up to Manheim, PA. for league play.  Congratulations to OBC for their fast start.  Also, thanks to the coaching staff for completing and returning the new Tournament Results Report Form; it really helps us out with tracking team and player’s progress!

We would like to give a shout out to the 2023 Cincinnati Royals who attended the Spartan Showcase Classic and won the 5^th grade division.  Their Sunday run to the championship included wins over Illinois Blaze (39-22), Bollingbrook Magic (44-23) and Illinois Attack (47-35). As a side note, the Maumee bay Turf advanced to bracket play but was defeated in the first round by NCBC (50-41).  This result is relevant to our Power Rankings, which will be released this week.

Finally, Ohio-based teams did really well in Michigan, as Tony Kynard’s 2022 Toledo Wildcats won the 6^th grade division of the Spartan Classic Showcase as well.  Congratulations to all of the Ohio teams for representing the Buckeye State so well!

Tournament Results Report Form

Buckeye Prep 2018 Tryouts Scheduled

Buckeye Prep Will be fielding a 2018 team this spring and summer. Tryouts are scheduled for this Sunday March 13th, 1-3pm @ Gahanna High School. For more information about tryouts or the 2106 plans, contact Ed Lyshe at 614-746-5537.

All-Ohio Claims First Tourney Win of Season

All-Ohio Red 2021-Tournament Champions

We had the opportunity to catch the 7^th grade semi-finals and championship games of the 13^th Annual Delaware Classic (OYB) yesterday at Westerville North High School.  As expected, Marty Finta’s All-Ohio Red 2021 squad ran through the field undefeated on their way to their first tournament championship of the year.  In the semi-final game, All-Ohio totally out classed the Marvels with a lopsided 64-20 win.  In that game, All-Ohio was paced by Bent Walker (6’5/C/2021/Huber Heights), who finished with a game-high 18 points and a ton of rebounds. Right behind him in scoring were Idris Lawrence

(5’5/SG/2021/Columbus), who finished with 10 points, followed by Gabe Finta (5’4/SG/2021/Columbus), who added 9 points and Patrick Daniels (5’5/WF/2021/Columbus), who contributed 7 points.

The outcome of the championship was not much different, as All-Ohio shook off a slow start on their way to a convincing 56-34 win over the Medina-based Stampede.  Although the Stampede was competitive early, and was actually tied with All-Ohio at 10-10 at the 10:00 mark in the first half, All-Ohio’s size, depth and pressure was simply too much for the Stampede to handle over the long haul. The leading scorer for All-Ohio was Wil Sizer (6’1/PF/2020/Cincinnati), who dropped a game-high 16 points. Dayton’s Alex Williams played well, finishing with 12 points, followed by Brent Walker’s 8 points and Quincy Clark’s 6 points.

Walker, Sizer, Clark & Williams

When we release our Power Rankings at the Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase this Saturday, All-Ohio Red 2021 will be near the top.  Since last season, Finta’s squad has undergone a complete makeover with the addition of some key pieces. New to the squad is Gahanna’s Quincy Clark, a dynamic PG who can score or facilitate the offense. Finta has also added Patrick and Azzan Daniels and Elijah English, all of whom ran with Buckeye Prep last year, as well as Dayton’s Alex Williams and Idris Lawrence. New to the state-wide scene is Brent Walker, a super athletic big with a huge upside.  Walker is a man child who controls the boards, protects the rim and scores in bunches.  Returning to the team are Wil Sizer, a rebounding and scoring machine, Isaiah May, a scoring wing that can shoot it from deep or finish at the rim, and Gabe Finta, one of the team’s zone busters.

From what we saw yesterday, Finta’s squad is well constructed with solid PG play in Clark, scoring wings and solid post play.  In addition, they appear to be an unselfish team so far, and really pass the well, particularly in the interior. Clark is very effective breaking down his defender, getting into the paint and dropping off dime for an easy bucket or kicking it out to an open shooter.  Williams is a bigger guard who uses his big frame to muscle his way to the cup.  Patrick Daniels is a scorer who is effective driving to the cup and finishing. English is another long big the gives the team depth off the bench. Lawrence is another big addition and can provide scoring off the bench.

Not only is All Ohio Red 2021 loaded with talent, they are well coached, both from the top with Finta and on the bench with Clark.  Those guys know what they’re doing. If the parents and players can remain patient and willing to sacrifice playing time and individual accolades, this team is poised to have a lot of success.  It will also be important for the players and parents to be open to their kid being coached for this team to realize their full potential. We hope to get a closer look at Finta’s team against an upgrade in talent at the Buckeye Prep Invitational Tournament April 1-3^rd.  Congrats to All-Ohio’s players, parents, and coaches for a job well done.

Buckeye Prep Hosts UA Next Combine Series Midwest

Under Armour’s Invite Only “UA Next Combine Series” for Basketball’s Next Generation

This April, Under Armour Basketball will introduce the “UA Next Combine Series” for select middle school basketball players. The Combine Series is an invite only program that will offer eighth graders high-level teaching, instruction and competition.  The program will run for a full day in each of the following six cities nationwide, including: Washington, D.C., Columbus, Ohio, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Houston and Walnut Creek, California.

The “UA Next Combine Series” is for current eighth grade players (Class of 2020) and 40 total players will be selected at each location. Players will compete for invitations to the prestigious “UA Next Experience” at the Under Armour Elite 24 this August in New York City.  Under Armour’s Elite 24 event is the nation’s premier annual high school basketball showcase that offers the world’s top prospects an opportunity to experience the energy and spirit of authentic playground basketball, while competing on the biggest stage of the summer.

“UA Next Combine Series” is the latest program from Under Armour’s Grassroots Basketball platform. It joins ongoing nationwide events, including the UA Association League, NBPA Top 100 Camp, SC30 Select Camp, UA All American Camp and the UA Elite 24. It is the purpose of these events to provide youth basketball players with the opportunity to hone their skills and maximize exposure in high-level teaching and competitive environments.  The platform aligns with Under Armour’s mission to “Make All Athletes Better.”

For more information please visit the UA Next tab on www.theuaassociation.com or email uanextcombineseries@underarmour.com