One of fastest rising 2016 Student Athletes out of the State of Texas is Nate Morris a 6’9″ Forward Lancaster HS. Nate Morris has been showing out and caught the attention of Mid Major Hoops Report this High School Season. Mid Major Hoops Report has brought him to our “Players Corner” where we at MMHR are proud to highlight him as one of the up and coming prospects in the 2016 Class….

MMHR: What is your official height and weight?

Nate Morris: 6’9″. 235 lbs.

MMHR: What position do you see yourself playing in college?

NM: I see myself playing as a power forward.

MMHR: What AAU team are you playing with this year?

NM: I will be playing with the Dallas Mustangs this summer.

MMHR: Describe your game for coaches and fans who haven’t seen you play yet?

NM: I am an unselfish player. It is more about winning as a team than looking good as a player. I am more of a defensive player than an offensive one.

MMHR: What makes you stand out the most from other players you compete against?

NM: I play with lots of heart. I am determined to get stops on defense. I go all out every time I step on the floor.

MMHR: What part of your game do you feel like you’ve improved on the most in
the last year?

NM: In the last year I have improved on my overall coordination and agility.

MMHR: What aspect of your game are you working the hardest on to improve?

NM: I am working hard to improve.

MMHR: What schools have shown strong interest so far?

NM:Texas A&M, SMU, UT, OSU, Universtiy of Houston, Kansas State, Creighton, Tulsa, Penn State, TCU, LSU

MMHR: Do you have a top five to ten schools you’re looking at right now?

NM: Right now I really have no preference on where I won’t to go to school.

MMHR: What schools have you visited? Do you have any visits planned for the
future?

NM: I have visited OSU, & Baylor.

MMHR: Would you prefer to play college basketball close to home, or is that
not a factor for you?

NM: I am open to going away from home to college.

MMHR: How hard do you work on your game? How much time do you put in?

NM: I am in the gym multiple times a day.

MMHR: How old were you when you first picked up a basketball?

NM: I started playing rec ball when I was 6. But I didn’t start playing AAU until 6th grade.

MMHR: What things are really important to you when it comes to choosing where
to play college basketball?

NM: Choosing a college

MMHR: Who are some of the mentors who helped you get to where you are right
now?

NM: Coach Miles

MMHR: What’s your favorite moment as a basketball player so far?

NM: Playing on varsity as a freshman.

MMHR: What are your short term goals as a basketball player?

NM: For my team to make it to the state tournament this year.

MMHR: What are your long term goals?

NM: To have the honor of playing in the NBA.

Special thanks to the Morris family for allowing us to interview Nate Morris. Good Luck, the rest of the season.

One of fastest rising 2017 Student Athletes out of the State of Texas is 6’8″ Post Elafayette Stone of Copperas Cove HS. Elafayette has been showing out and caught the attention of Mid Major Hoops Report this High School Season. Mid Major Hoops Report has brought him to our “Players Corner” where we at MMHR are proud to highlight him as one of the up and coming prospects in the 2017 Class….

“A 6’8″ big man with solid footwork who can finish around the rim has long arms and big hands rebounds are automatic.” – Ladell Hill Jr. Aka @CoachAdvocatus

MMHR: What is your official height and weight?

ES: 6’8 1/2 and 245lbs

MMHR: What position do you see yourself playing in college?

ES: I see myself playing the Power Forward position.

MMHR: What AAU team are you playing with this year?

ES: Team Phenom

MMHR: Describe your game for coaches and fans who haven’t seen you play yet?

ES: I’m a good big man who is dependable on both ends of the court. I like to play defense and rebound for my team.

MMHR: What makes you stand out the most from other players you compete against?

ES: I am a leader in the locker first and foremost.

MMHR: What part of your game do you feel like you’ve improved on the most in the last year?

ES: jumper, free throws, and my ball handling.

MMHR: What aspect of your game are you working the hardest on to improve?

ES: ball handling, my hands, rebounding.

MMHR: What schools have shown strong interest so far?

ES: Creighton

MMHR: Who are some of the college coaches who have made an impression on you
and your family?

ES: Steve Lutz

MMHR: Do you have a top five to ten schools you’re looking at right now?

ES: Kentucky, Georgia, and Creighton all i have right now.

MMHR: Would you prefer to play college basketball close to home, or is that not a factor for you?

ES: It’s not a factor, I just want to play at the highest level possible.

MMHR: How hard do you work on your game? How much time do you put in?

ES: I try to work as hard as i can everyday im in the gym til late at night.

MMHR: How old were you when you first picked up a basketball?

ES: 5 years old.

MMHR: What things are really important to you when it comes to choosing where to play college basketball?

ES: Academics!

MMHR: Who are some of the mentors who helped you get to where you are right now?

ES: My 7th grade coach Greg Sullivan.

MMHR: What’s your favorite moment as a basketball player so far?

ES: Getting my first dunk in a game.

MMHR: What are your short term goals as a basketball player?

ES: Get a scholarship and play at a high level.

MMHR: What are your long term goals?

ES: Graduate college and try my hardest to make an NBA roster.

MMHR: Do you have a Facebook or Twitter you would like to share with us?

ES: Facebook (Elafayette Stone)

MMHR: What style of play do you prefer?

ES: Up tempo and fundamental basketball.

MMHR: Who’s a player in college or the NBA that you really respect?

ES: James Harden of the OKC Thunder.

MMHR: Do you prefer Nike, adidas, or Under Armour?

ES: Nike

MMHR would like to Thank the Stone Family for making this Interview happen. Good luck on the rest of your season.

Mid Major Hoops Report made it up to College of the Sequoias’ Porter Fieldhouse(Visalia, CA) on January 20, 2014 to see some of Central and Northern California’s top basketball talent. With six games on display, MMHR got an opportunity to see quality players in the class of 2014 all the way down to promising players in the class of 2017.

DEPTH of CENTENNIAL

The first game of the day had a matchup between Fresno Roosevelt, #3 ranked team in Central Section Division III, and Bakersfield Centennial, who is ranked #9 in Division I. Both teams came out from the gate intent on controlling the tempo. Up tempo was the name of the game, Roosevelt and Centennial run and gunned to a 35-30 halftime score with Centennial up. In the 3rd quarter, Centennial continued to press on D. Roosevelt had trouble and ended up adding to its turnover total (18 through 3 quarters). Centennial ended the quarter on a 14-2 run. In the end, Centennial won 71-57. Centennial was led by Derek Check(2014) with 25 points and Roosevelt by Kurtis McCoy(2014) with 16 points. Each team had a promising sophomore on their team. Centennial’s Malcolm Johnson(2016), 6’5″ wing, is an athletic player who excels in transition and on the defensive end. Roosevelt’s Bryson Williams(2016), 6’7″ P, is a mid major prospect present day. Young Bryson’s body has to catch up to his mind.

FATAI and LAMONT SHOW

The second game of the day was a battle between East Bakersfield, #4 ranked team in Division II, and Redwood, who is ranked #7 in the same division. This game was a two possession game for much of the contest. East led 17-14 after 1 quarter and 28-24 at the half. In the 3rd quarter, East pushed its lead to 8 points(44-36). Redwood fought back, but in the end East won 57-52. Redwood was led by Riley Gerberick(2015), 6’7″ Post, with 17 points and Josh Carr(2014) with 14 points. East was led by Fatai Eke(2014), 6’8″ Post, and Lamont Jones(2015), 6’6″ Wing. Fatai is an explosive athlete and shot blocker(9 Blocks). He has trouble finishing at the rim. Fatai added 17 points and 7 rebounds. Jones played the role of point forward. He had 15 points. Jones has major upside. From a year ago, he has improved his handle and jump shot.

NO HOPE WITHOUT POPE

The third game of the showcase was Bakersfield Liberty, one of the top two teams in the Bakersfield area and Division II Laguna Creek Elk Grove out of Sacramento. Elk Grove, without San Diego State commit and Top 50 player Malik Pope(2014), came out strong in the 1st quarter and took a 21-18 lead. Liberty went on a 9-0 run to begin the 2nd quarter by turning up its defense and limiting Elk Grove to 4 points in the 2nd quarter and leading 29-25 at half. The second half was the same as Liberty pulled away and won 49-37. Elk Grove was led by Jesse Woods III(2014) with 13 points and Richard Reed(2014) with 11 points. Kyle Ferreira(2014) led Liberty with 14 points.

JACK in the BOX

The fourth game of the showcase was Fresno Edison, a favorite for the Division I title, and Fresno High, the top team in Division III. The 1st quarter was a stalemate as both teams scored 11 points. In the 2nd quarter, Edison decided to face guard Fresno’s top player Daryl Edwards(2014), 6’4″ combo guard, and took a 29-23 lead at the half. In the 3rd quarter, Edison pushed the tempo and continued to double the ball and face guard Edwards. They increased their lead by 14 going into the 4th(46-32). The 4th quarter was a replay as Edison won 63-46. Edison was led by Sergio Rocha(2014) with 18 points. Rocha is a good spot up shooter, mid range game, and is a leader on the floor. Daylon Potts(2014) had 15 points using a strong post game. Fresno was led by J’Veon Jones(2014), 6’2″ PG, and Edwards. Jones had 18 points using his penetration skills, handles, and 3 ball shooting. He needs to be more aggressive. Edwards had 17 points while being constantly harassed by 2-3 defenders the whole night. He is a savvy player with a strong handle, mid range game, and a strong finisher at the rim. Edwards is a good offensive rebounder, uses an effective jab step to create space, and quick hands to create defensive steals.

WELCOME to MR. PERSON’S NEIGHBORHOOD

Game 5 between Mt. Whitney, Division III top-5 team, and Immanuel, the Division V favorite was the most exciting game of the day. The 1st quarter was a pedestrian 13-12 affair led by Mt. Whitney. Both teams cranked it up and scored 25 and 21 points in the 2nd quarter with the Pioneers leading 37-33 at half. The 3rd quarter was a duplicate of the 2nd as Mt. Whitney took a 58-51 lead into the 4th. This is where the game took a turn for the best as Immanuel fought back and outscored the Pioneers 17-11 to lose 69-68. Mt. Whitney was led by Ethan Moore(2014) with 22 points and Jack Eivins(2015) with 11 points. Moore is a guard with burst. He has a good handle, shoots the 3 ball, mid range game, and penetrates at will. Immanuel was led by Kyle Hurt(2014), Lance Henderson(2015), and Darrin Person(2017). Hurt had 13 points. He is a shooter, handles, and a good passer. Mr. Person led all scorers with 39 points. That is not a typo. The 6’6″ man-child has a nice post game. He gets excellent post position on the block, patient in the post, and finishes through contact at will. Person is a high volume rebounder and shot blocker. He needs to face up and rip through and go more to the basket. Person reminds me of a young Wayman Tisdale and Larry Johnson.

CAN YOU KEEP UP?

The last game of the showcase between Mission Oak, a top Division III team, and Clovis East, one of the top Division I teams was an up and down contest. In the 1st quarter, Clovis East got off to a fast start and led 19-10. Mission Oak cranked it up and had a 22 point quarter but Clovis East matched them and led 41-32 at the half. Mission Oak came out in the 3rd quarter and neutralized East’s run and jump, scramble defense. They cut the lead to 2 points(59-57) going to the 4th. Clovis East responded and outscored Mission Oak 27-12 and won 86-69. Mission Oak was led by Bobby Alvarado(2014) with19 points. Jonell Burton(2015) had 14 points. He is long, athletic, and a good passer. Burton needs to get stronger and work on his handles. Will Shannon(2016), younger brother of Blake (BIOLA signee), had 16 points. This lefty is a good shooter and ball handler. Clovis East was led by Dylan Eamigh(2014) with 23 points, Cole Morgan (2014) with 13 points, and Ian Holman with 10 points. Dylan is a tough, gritty point guard. He penetrates, shoots the 3 ball, and gets his teammates involved. In the 2nd half when his team needed it the most, Dylan took over. He scored 19 of his 23 points. In the 4th quarter, Dylan outscored Mission Oak 14-12 by himself.

Special thanks to event director Lerohn Dodson for putting on such a good event and allowing us at MMHR to cover the event.

One of top 2014 Student Athletes on the West Coast Joey Covarrubiasof Cantwell Sacred Heart HS in Southern California. Joey has been showing out grabbing major attention from college recruiters and media outlets this High School Season. Mid Major Hoops Report has brought him to our “Players Corner” where we at MMHR are proud to highlight him as one of the most underrecruited prospects in the 2014 Class….

1. What is your official height and weight?

Joey Covarrubias: 6’3 and 195lbs

2. What position do you see yourself playing in college?

Joey Covarrubias: As a combo guard I am a versatile player on both ends of the court.

3. What AAU team are you playing with this year?

Joey Covarrubias On one of Dinos Trigonis team. PANGOS/Bellmont Shore.

4. Describe your game for coaches and fans who haven’t seen you play yet?

Joey Covarrubias: Old mans game; I don’t look the part but the results DO! A ‘Mark Jackson/Andre Miller’ type. I am a versatile player. I can shoot the 3 ball effectively off the catch or the dribble. I am a wing who gets to the basket as needed. I am at my best running the point in the last few minutes of a game. My coaches and teammates feel at ease when the ball is in my hand during those winding minutes. Very few observers focus on defense but if they do they will see that I can guard at a high level regardless of position.

5. What makes you stand out the most from other players you compete against?

Joey Covarrubias: How cerebral my whole game is on both end’s of the court. Those watching may not see the impact, but those who coach me and those who I play against can feel how I affected the game.

6. What part of your game do you feel like you’ve improved on the most in the last year?

Joey Covarrubias: Finishing at the basket. It has come from being more on attack mode. Cantwell has required that from me.

7. What aspect of your game are you working the hardest on to improve?
Joey Covarrubias: I am currently working on my ballhandling and getting quicker at my 1st step. I still keep it very simple. One or two moves at most. Its not how fast I can get there, but how do i get there.

8. What schools have shown strong interest so far?
Joey Covarrubias: Cal St LA, and Biola.

9. Who are some of the college coaches who have made an impression on you
and your family?
Joey Covarrubias: No specific one’s at this point. A coach who makes an impression on me will be a coach who want’s me and not one who needs me.

10. Do you have a top five to ten schools you’re looking at right now?
Joey Covarrubias: Fresno St, Cal St Long Beach, Cal St.Fullerton, Northridge, UC Riverside, Grand Canyon, Northern Arizona, Biola, Cal St.LA.

11. What schools have you visited? Do you have any visits planned for the future?
Joey Covarrubias: No visits yet.

12. Would you prefer to play college basketball close to home, or is that not a factor for you?
Joey Covarrubias: Anywhere that gives me the best opportunity.

13. How hard do you work on your game? How much time do you put in?
Joey Covarrubias: I work very hard. I get very little sleep. It is a fulltime occupation with mandatory overtime.

14. How old were you when you first picked up a basketball?
Joey Covarrubias: I was month’s old.

15. What things are really important to you when it comes to choosing where to play college basketball?
Joey Covarrubias: First and foremost, a place where I can get a quality education. Also where a coach can further my in depth pursuit
knowledge of the game.

16. Who are some of the mentors who helped you get to where you are right now?

Joey Covarrubias: My father and my uncle Cezar Guerrero AKA CJ.

17. What’s your favorite moment as a basketball player so far?

Joey Covarrubias: Playing in the CIF championship game my sophmore year minus the end result.

18. What are your short term goals as a basketball player?

Joey Covarrubias: Winning a CIF championship and rewarding myself with a scholarship.

19. What are your long term goals?

Joey Covarrubias: Getting a College degree and getting paid for playing the game I LOVE.

20. Do you have a Facebook or Twitter that you’d like to share with us?

Joey Covarrubias: My twitter is 0jaycee5.

21. What style of play do you prefer?

Joey Covarrubias: Open style type!

22. Who’s a player in college basketball or the NBA that you really respect?

Joey Covarrubias Kobe Bryant

23. Do you prefer Nike, adidas, or Under Armour?

Joey Covarrubias Nike

MMHR would like to thank the Covarrubias family for making this interview happen. Good luck, Joey on the remainder of your season and your quest for a scholarship.

One of top 2016 Student Athletes in the country, Lonzo Ball of Chino Hills, (Calif.) has been showing out grabbing high major attention from college recruiters and media outlets. Mid Major Hoops Report has brought him to our “Players Corner” where we at MMHR are proud to highlight him and allow him to let us know why he chose UCLA over other top Colleges in the country…..

What is your Height, Weight, and Position you play?

Lonzo Ball: 6’5″ 165lbs PG

How is your season coming along, so far? Is it living upto expectations?

Lonzo Ball: The Season has been going okay. We feel we’ve lossed some very winnable games. Right now we’re good but we feel we could be great.

Upto this point in your season, who has been your team’s toughest matchup?

Lonzo Ball:We feel like we could matchup with anyone and should be undefeated. So I don’t know.

Which college programs have been to your games and/or practices so far this season before you made your commitment?

Lonzo Ball:UCLA USC Syracuse UCONN

Congrats! On the commit to UCLA, what made you choose them over other big time colleges?

Lonzo Ball:I wanted to stay home, I like the staff, and their style of play fits my game.

Which College Athlete or Professional player, do you compare your game to?

Lonzo Ball:Well I try not to just patent my game off of one player. I like to take a little something from everybody. But, if I had to pick one it would probably be LeBron James because he can do it all.

Any big time camps or showcases you plan on attending after this season?

Lonzo Ball:I’m not sure, I’m just focused on winning games for my school right now

What are your strong points in your game right now? And what weaknesses, do you have that you are working on to become a strength?

Lonzo Ball:Strengths: Play-maker, Fills up stat sheet, and Leader

Weaknesses: Gambles too much on defense and needs to get stronger

What AAU team are you associated with?

Lonzo Ball: Big Ballers.

How many days a week are you working on your game outside of normal team practices?

Lonzo Ball:Everyday. No Days off.

Do you have a twitter and if so, what is it?
Lonzo Ball:@Z02_

Last question, Who has had the biggest impact on your life when it comes to basketball, life, and school?
Lonzo Ball: My Father.

Thank you, for your time and good luck on the rest of your season. Please keep in contact with MMHR to keep track of your recruiting. Thank you

– Mid Major Hoops Report Staff

One of top 2016 Student Athletes on the West Coast Ian Carter of Serra HS of Gardena, California. Ian has been showing out grabbing major attention from college recruiters and media outlets. Mid Major Hoops Report has brought him to our “Players Corner” where we at MMHR are proud to highlight him as one of the fastest rising prospects in the 2016 Class….

Ian Carter 6’7″ Forward Serra High School 2016

Long arms and very athletic with major bounce, shows promise, he is very timid on offense, he needs to take more shots within teams offense and attack the basket more, he will be really good if he continues to work on his three ball and dribbling skills.

– @Hoopswhisperer

1. What is your official height and weight?

Ian Carter:6’6” Wing/Forward 180lbs

2. What position do you see yourself playing in college?

Ian Carter:I can see my self at the 2,3, and 4 if I keep growing

3. What AAU team are you playing with this year?

Ian Carter:California Supreme

4. Describe your game for coaches and fans who haven’t seen you play yet?

Ian Carter:I like to play up-tempo with tons of fast break dunks and good transition passes. If I get the rebound with an opportunity to break, I’ll take it myself. I can shoot the ball pretty well and I think my handle is solid, but they both could get better.

5. What makes you stand out the most from other players you compete against?

Ian Carter:I try to talk a lot on defense, it gets the opposing offense rattled and us hyped. I also think that being able to take charges makes me stand out too.

6. What part of your game do you feel like you’ve improved on the most in
the last year?

Ian Carter:Defense, I have been able to guard every position so far in the season. I have guarded 5’10” point guards to 7 foot centers.

7. What aspect of your game are you working the hardest on to improve?

Ian Carter:I need to develop more confidence in my ability; I feel that I work out often enough that if I gain more confidence my game will go to another level. In terms of skill, I have been working hard on my guard skills for the upcoming AAU season.

8. What schools have shown strong interest so far?

Ian Carter: So far I have no offers, but I have interests from Columbia, New Mexico State, Loyola Maryland, and Holy Cross.

9. Who are some of the college coaches who have made an impression on you
and your family?

Ian Carter:The best impressions that have been made so far as recruitment goes is by Columbia’s Todd Goldman and head coach Kyle Smith.

10. Do you have a top five to ten schools you’re looking at right now?

Ian Carter: So far I really like the idea of going to Columbia, but if I had a chance to go to Ohio State, Duke, UCLA, or Syracuse I would be all in.

11. What schools have you visited? Do you have any visits planned for the
future?

Ian Carter:I have visited Cal State Fullerton and LMU with my non-biological older brother, Ron Freeman. I plan on going on a few unofficials.

12. Would you prefer to play college basketball close to home, or is that
not a factor for you?

Ian Carter:It doesn’t matter really. Any place where I could play basketball for a good fan base would be great.

13. How hard do you work on your game? How much time do you put in?

Ian Carter:I spend tons of time working on my game. I make sure that I go hard every time because if I don’t, I’m allowing someone else to get better.

14. How old were you when you first picked up a basketball?

Ian Carter: I was about 6 playing for the little YMCA league when I first tried basketball out. I didn’t play on any competitive teams until about the seventh grade though.

15. What things are really important to you when it comes to choosing where
to play college basketball?

Ian Carter: In terms of basketball I would like great fans, a good relationship with the coaching staff, and teammates that are willing to work as hard as me. In terms of academics I would prefer smaller classes and professors willing to work one on one.

16. Who are some of the mentors who helped you get to where you are right now?

Ian Carter:My parents are my biggest supporters, but I feel that the most significant coach that I have ever been with was my seventh grade AAU coach. I learned a lot about footwork there. I can say that most of the coaches I have been with are big parts of where I am now.

17. What’s your favorite moment as a basketball player so far?

Ian Carter:I think the best moment was when I first dunked a ball on an actual ten-foot hoop.

18. What are your short term goals as a basketball player?

Ian Carter: I want to go undefeated for the rest of my high school season, and I want to get my guard skills up.

19. What are your long term goals?

Ian Carter: I want to become a key player on a division 1 basketball team.

20. Do you have a Facebook or Twitter that you’d like to share with us?

Ian Carter: I don’t use facebook anymore, but my twitter is @iancarter2016

21. What style of play do you prefer?

Ian Carter: Fast pace and up-tempo

22. Who’s a player in college basketball or the NBA that you really respect?

Ian Carter: I hate Lebron but he works so hard and plays on such another level that you can only respect what he has been able to accomplish.

23. Do you prefer Nike, adidas, or Under Armour?

Ian Carter: Nike shoes fit my feet the best.

MMHR would like to give a special thanks to the Carter family for allowing us to interview their son. Good luck on the rest of your season!

Cerritos, CA – MMHR came out to Cerritos College Saturday May 11th to watch the 3rd Annual Cavalier Classic put on by Gardena Serra High School. 16 teams and 240 players representing California, Arizona, and Nevada participated.

LYNWOOD HS vs. RENAISSANCE ACADEMY

The opening game was an excellent way to start the day off. Lynwood came out strong behind Dashawn Hill(2014), 6’8″ P/F, hitting the offensive glass turning them into easy baskets. Renaissance countered with the Kosta Jankovic (2015), G/F, hitting 1 dribble pullups and penetrating and kicking for assists. The 1st quarter saw RA take a 1 point lead(15-14). Jankovic continued to hit the 3 ball, but L-wood did not falter and tied the game up at half(28-28). Jankovic kept the 3 ball coming added a Dirk Nowitzki-like pull up in the key.
Kevin Miller(2014), 6’2″ SG/PG, stepped up with quick finishes at the rim and nice jump shots in transition. RA fed the ball down low to Marty Gaizaukas, 6’5″ F. He is tough, gets good position, and battles down low. L-wood took a 1 point lead going into the 4th (39-38) with pressure D. With 2nd shot opportunities and pressure D, Lynwood won 47-45.

LOCKE vs. SADDLEBACK VALLEY CHRISTIAN

The next game was quite the opposite of game #1. SVC from the opening tip jumped on Locke HS and never looked back winning 100-45. Three players stood out for SVC. Miles Seward (2014), 6’2″ G, is a bouncy athlete. He came out and took the opening tip in for a dunk. Miles uses shot fakes to make plays off the dribble. Eric Rwahwire(2015), 6’1″ F, is an undersized post. He is a strong finisher with a good body. Hunter Irshad (2016), 6’8″ F, is a promising prospect. He needs to work on a post up game. Hunter moves well without the ball. He looks like a taller Nick Stover(LMU/Winward HS). Whether Hunter becomes a “true post” or “stretch 4” will determine the level of D! basketball he plays at.

MAYFAIR HS vs. PASADENA JOHN MUIR HS

Mayfair came out quickly and took a 21-9 lead. Muir responded in the 2nd quarter and cut the lead at the half(32-24). In the 3rd quarter, both teams went back and forth with Mayfair maintain a 10 point lead going into the 4th(44-34). Then Mayfair took it up a level with a 21 point quarter and won 65-51. Mayfair was led by Kendall “MR. BIG” Small(2015), 6’0″ PG. He makes acrobatic finishes at the rim for AND1s. Small has a nice pull up jumper that is always under control. He has a nice burst, athletic (throws it down), and his footwork is on point. Defensively, Small has quick hands that allows him make a lot of steals. Muir was led by Dejon Williams(2014), 6’1″ PG. He is tall, rangy, and long. Williams makes good post passes. He uses a crafty hesitation and change of pace move. Williams needs to work on his shot.

POST GAME MMHR INTERVIEW

MMHR got a chance to talk to Mayfair’s Michael Nwabuzor(2014), 6’1″ PG, Dillion Reise(2104), 6’5″ W, and “MR. BIG” aka Kendall Small(2015), 6’0″ PG.

MMHR: How’s your season going so far? Is it living up to your expectations?

MN: Good! We had big wins over Bosco, Etiwanda, and Compton. Yes it is. Higher! Coming in with new players, you did not know how it would work. But winning big games and going to the final of the Redondo tournament has changed that.

DR: The team has exceeded expectations. We layed a couple of eggs in the NOR and Torrey Pines tournament. But, we had a team meeting and worked things out.

KS: Good! We have a tough schedule. The transferring situation has been smooth. It was tough in the beginning, but we worked it out.

MMHR: Up to this point in the season, what team has been your toughest matchup?

MN: Etiwanda…They play together and tough D. Even though we were down by 13 points, we came back at the Top Flight Challenge.

DR: Bosco…Etiwanda…Compton. They were bigger and stronger. Westhaven Christian(NC) had good athletes and two strong guys. Also, Cantwell Sacred had size with the big Serbs.

KS: Etiwanda! Even without Jordan McLaughlin(USC signee), were tough.

MMHR: Are there any camps or showcases you will attend in the off season?

MN: I had a torn patella last summer so I missed camps and showcases. But this time, I will do some things with Superior Athletes unsigned SR team.

DR: I will do some things with Superior Athletes unsigned SR team.

KS: I will also play with Superior Athletes. As far as camps, I will do the Reebok Breakout, the Nike camps, NBPA Top 100, and Pangos AA Camp.

MMHR: What are your strengths and weaknesses?

DR: My strengths are my shooting, spotting up and off the dribble. And getting to the basket with my left hand. As far as weaknesses, I need to improve on guarding small, quick guards and getting more consistent with my right hand.

KS: My vision, mid range shot, getting to the hole and creating for myself and the team are my strengths. I need to work on my free throw routine, free throw percentage, and get a more consistent pull up J.

ROLLING HILLS PREP vs. LAWNDALE HS

This game was a tight affair throughout. The 1st quarter produced a 1 point lead for RHP(11-10). The halftime score was 28-28. In the 3rd quarter, Lawndale exerted its quickness and shot blocking abilities to take a 55-41 lead into the 4th. RHP made a rally, but in the end it was not enough as Lawndale won 68-60.

Players of note for RHP were Jackie Davis(2014), 6’3″ PG, and Jimbo Lulls(2015), 6’11” C. Davis has a good body. He has a good handle that allows him to get to the rack and finish at will. Davis is a good spot up shooter as well. Jimbo reminds me of a young Bryant Reeves. He runs the floor well, and gets up and throws down dunks. Two big post led Lawndale. Broderick Jones 6’8″ W/F Lawndale HS
is very athletic. He has quick ups. Jones showed a nice left hand hook to the middle of the key and a reverse pivot face up jumper. He needs to work on his post up game. Chimezie Metu (2015), 6’9″ F, is a bouncy athlete. He blocks everything in sight. In the 1st half alone, I counted 5 or 6 blocks by Metu. On one possession, he blocked a 3 pointer by the opposing player, grabbed the ball out of the air, and dribbled the ball up the court for a thunderous dunk. Metu has no post up game, but he passes the ball well from the high post.

SERRA HS vs. PENINSULA HS

The host school, Serra, played a South Bay area rival in Peninsula. Both teams came out ready to impose their wills in each other. This made for a close and exciting 1st half(40-37) with Serra up. The 3rd quarter was a replay of the 1st half, as Serra tried to pull away but Peninsula did not go away. Heading into the 4th quarter, Serra had a 51-50 lead. In the 4th quarter, Serra said enough is enough as it put together a 24 point quarter and won 75-62. Player of note in this game was Stanley Roberts, Jr.(2014), 6’8″ 235 Post. He has a big body with a solid frame. Roberts finishes strong around the basket with bounce, and has a nice shooting stroke. He makes good passes out of the post. Roberts needs to improve on back-to-the-basket moves. On the defensive end, Roberts has good post “D”, and alters shots.

ST. ANTHONY(CA) vs. CLARK HS(NV)

The first out-of-state matchup featured California versus Nevada. The 1st quarter was neck and neck as SA and Clark played to a 13-13 tie. In the 2nd quarter, Clark let it be known they were in the house with a 24-20 lead at the half. In the 2nd half, SA represented by taking control of the game and won 49-41.

CANTWELL SACRED-HEART(CA) vs. SUNNYSLOPE HS(AZ)

The second out-of-state matchup featured Cantwell out of Montebello against Sunnyslope out of Arizona. Cantwell controlled the whole game as it won 52-44. Joey Covarrubias (2014), 6’2″ PG, ran his team to perfection. He got the ball to his shooters, bigs, and took timely shots. Joey has a game resembling a less athletic Jamaal Tinsley. There is nothing fancy about his game. Joey gets to the hole and finishes strong for AND1s. If you leave him open, count it. The jumper is wet! Joey ended up with 22 points .

WESTCHESTER vs. SHELDON

MMHR did not observe the whole game. Chester won 77-55 over Sheldon

One of top 2016 Point Guard’s on the West Coast Justin Moore of Mission Bay HS of San Diego, California. Justin has been showing out grabbing major attention from college recruiters and media outlets. Mid Major Hoops Report has brought him to our “Players Corner” where we at MMHR are proud to highlight him as one of the fastest rising prospects in the 2016 Class….

“Savvy Handle, quick first step who can shoot the ball off the dribble and has accurate three point shot. High Major upside.” – Ladell Hill Jr.

MMHR: What is your Height, Weight, and Position you play?

Justin Moore: 6’3″ Point Guard and 155lbs

MMHR:How is your season coming along, so far? Is it living hpupto expectations?

Justin Moore: I’m doing pretty well. I think I’m living up lto my expectations but theirs always room for improvement and I can always get better!

MMHR:Upto this point in your season, who has been your team’s toughest matchup?

Justin Moore Patomic of Virginia

MMHR:Which college programs have been to your games and practices so far this season?

Justin Moore:USC, SDSU, USD, UC Irvine, ASU

MMHR:Which colleges are recruiting you the hardest right now? Any scholarship offers at this point?

MMHR: I have offers From SDSU, USC, GSU, USD and Vanderbilt is recruiting me the hardest right now.

MMHR:What are you looking for in a College Program?

Justin Moore: Education is first in my family, I want to be coached by Great coaching staff, Best fit for my playing style, Where I can earn the chance to play. I’m all about winning!! so a winning program.

MMHR:Do you have any college visits planned?

Justin Moore: No, i dont at this time. I am focused on my HS season right now.

MMHR:Any big time camps or showcases you plan on attending after season?

Justin Moore: Hopefully, the NBA Top 100 Camp, Lebron Skills Academy, Deron Williams Skills Academy, and Pangos All-American Camp.

MMHR:What are your strong points in your game right now? And what weaknesses, do you have that you are working on to become a strength?

Justin Moore: My strong points in my game right now would be passing the ball, good ball handler, floor general, getting to the basket and my defense. Some of my weaknesses that I’m working on is being more of a vocal leader and my jump shot.

MMHR:What AAU team are you associated with?

Justin Moore:San Diego All Stars

MMHR:How many days a week are you working on your game outside of normal team practices?

Justin Moore: 6 days a week.

MMHR:Do you have a twitter and if so, what is it?

Justin Moore: @Justinm_25

MMHR:Last question, Who has had the biggest impact on your life when it comes to basketball, life, and school?

Justin Moore: My mom Nicole Moore, My older brother Chris Prather, My coach Marshawn Cherry and My best friend Lamarriel Taylor.

Special thanks to the Moore family and Mr. Cherry for your time and Allow us to make this happen. Good luck, on the rest of your season. Please keep in contact with MMHR to keep track of your recruiting.

Cerritos, Calif. – Mid Major Hoops Report was on tap at Cerritos College in Cerritos, CA for the annual Cavalier Classic powered by Serra High School in Gardena, California. The showcase style event featured teams from all over the West Coast such as Lynwood, Renaissance Academy, Saddleback Valley Christian, Mayfair, Muir, Lawndale, Serra, St. Anthony, Clark, NV, Cantwell, Sunnyslope, Westchester, and Sheldon, Sacramento.

The top athletes selected were based on performance shown by each athlete today and not their College projection or reputation at the grassroots level coming into todays showcase.

Kevin Miller 6’2″ Guard Lynwood High 2014

Athletic/Long combo guard, has good lift on his jump shot, good defender who can defend bigger guards with his length.

Kosta Jankovic 6’7 Wing Renaissance Academy 2015

Long, Smooth Lefty with a good feel for the game, shoots the mid range very well and can hit the 3 ball, Solid on ball and excellent off ball defender.

Miles Seward 6’2″ Guard Saddleback Valley Christian 2014

A very athletic guard with bounce, Slasher type of game, gets to the rim off two dribbles max.

Hunter Irshad 6’8″ Forward Saddleback Valley Christian 2016

Long athletic who can alter shots on defensive end, good timing on blocking shots effectively, needs more post moves and face up to the basket moves for his position.

Kendall Small 6’1″ Point Guard Mayfair High School 2015

High motor on both sides of the ball, can score with the best of them, always under control in high pressure situations, knows how to draw contact/fouls to get easy free throw points, very good in pick n roll situations, has good one and two dribble jump shot ability.

Dillon Reise 6’5″ Wing Mayfair High School 2014

High motor, runs floor well, Excellent helpside defender, needs to work on mid range and three point shot.

Dejon Williams 6’1″ Guard John Muir HS 2014

Savvy handle with good passes into post and Pick n Roll, long arms that add to his solid on ball defense, needs to add muscle to his frame for next level.

Jimbo Lull 7’0 Center Rolling Hills Prep 2015

Big/Long body with strong core, alters shots with arm length, need to add goto post move, needs to work on short corner jumper.

Jackie Davis 6’3″ Guard Rolling Hills Prep 2014

Strong body guard, slasher who can get to the rim, fast first step, solid handle, physical on ball defender, offensively would like to see him shoot the ball more, needs to add seperation moves to his arsenal.

Chemezie Metu 6’9″ Forward Lawndale High School 2015

One of the more impressive prospects of the day at the Cavalier Classic who had 6 blocks in the 1st half and a few powerful dunks in this game. Chemezie is a HIGHLY active rebounder on both sides of the ball, always shows authority in the paint, knows how to use his length for a dominant advantage, he makes good passes out of the high post, needs to work on his footwork down low, needs to establish go to post move and really needs to learn a “face up” game for a forward his size.

Ian Carter 6’7″ Forward Serra High School 2016

Long arms and very athletic with major bounce, shows promise, he is very timid on offense, he needs to take more shots within teams offense and attack the basket more, he will be really good if he continues to work on his three ball and dribbling skills.

Colby Jackson 5’9″ Point Guard Clark High School (Nevada) 2015

Head strong point guard, solid handle, very quick feet, makes good decisions in traffic, at his best finding teammates in transition, What i like best about his game is “If he is not attacking the rim he is always moving the ball attacking the def. with the pass”, Jackson needs to create more shooting opportunities off the dribble and catch and shoot opportunities.

Joey Covarrubias 6’3″ Guard Cantwell High School 2014

This player just grows on you as the game gets tougher and more physical for his team, the ball just attracts Joey to lead the way and he always accepts the challenge as he did in a clutch win versus a good sunnyslope (Ariz.) team led by Pangos All American 6’9″ forward Michael Humphrey. Joey is a back to the basket styled point guard, he knows how to use his body to protect the rock and uses his hips to bump his defenders off him to create space to attack the rim, he has good hesitation moves to go with his solid ball handling skills, he pounds the ball old school style, he has great shooting form and can shoot the three ball effectively but needs to shoot more especially off the dribble, I believe this is a key reason why college coaches hesitate to give him a true look. All i can say is the kid can play and hes out playing top tier D1 athletes at their own game. Give him a shot!

Mid Major Hoops Report would like to thank Serra coaching staff and event promoter Johnny Hernandez for the A+ hospitality and for such a great event for all of us Hoop Junkies.

MMHR went to the 74th Annual Dallas Independent School District/Coca Cola Basketball Tournament and the 56th Annual Whataburger Basketball Tournament in Ft. Worth, Texas December 27 and 28.Top players such as Elijah Thomas(Lancaster HS), Jawun Evans(Dallas Kimball), and Admon Gilder(Dallas Madison) were at the Coca Cola. Over at the Whataburger players such as Myles Turner(Euless Trinity), Elbert Robinson(Garland Lakeview Centennial), and Quentin Snider(Louisville Ballard) highlighted it.

BATTLE OF THE GIANTS

Championship Saturday at the 56th Annual Whataburger Basketball Tournament offered a Battle of the Giants between Lakeview Centennial HS’s(TX) Elbert Robinson(2014), 7’0″ Post and LSU signee, and Euless Trinity’s(TX) unsigned Myles Turner(2014), 6’11” Post and Top 5 national recruit, with a list of suitors such as Duke, Kentucky, Arizona, Oklahoma State, Ohio State, Kansas, and Texas.

MMHR got its first look at Robinson and we were impressed. This lefty has a big body. Robinson moves his feet well. He is a smart defender. Robinson can hit the 12-15 feet jumper with a beautiful stroke. The big fella gets up for thunderous dunks. MMHR got a glimpse of Turner last summer. First observations were he reminded one of a young Kevin Durant. Turner is long and lanky. He runs the floor well. Turner can stretch the floor if the opposing post plays off of him. Then, he faces up and drives around the defense if he has a quickness advantage. Also, Turner finishes strong down low. He is trying to add dribble busting out of a defensive rebound to lead a fast break, but Turner has to learn how to not over dribble and turn it over.

Over the course of this battle, there were many sequences of plays that displayed the NBA potential of Robinson and Turner. Turner would beat Robinson up the floor in transition for a rim to rim dunk. In half court, Turner would face Robinson up on the right short corner and go right around him for a dunk. Also, Turner would use his quickness to position himself for several thunderous tip jams. Robinson would counter with his bulk and strength. He would post a fronting Turner up on the left low block, and take the lobbed pass and dunk it ala Darryl Dawkins. On the offensive glass, Robinson would push Turner so far under the rim that the ball would fall to him and a put back was automatically given. Then Turner would space out and hit the 3 ball. Robinson would comeback and catch the ball at the elbow and hit a 12 footer. Turner ended up winning the battle of points 27-16. But when one takes into account the points scored when they guarded each other, it was dead even. In the stat that counts the most, Lakeview Centennial won 72-64 over Euless Trinity.