Jaylan Alicia (5'10", Lawrence High School) - winter 2011 evaluation -Alicia is an athletic guard that showed that he can score the basketball in a number of ways. He has a nice stroke from behind the arc, is impressive with the pull-up off the dribble, and showed us a nice floater over the big man. The bottom line is that he can score the basketball. Alicia is a hidden gem that has not gotten enough exposure since he did not play on the AAU circuit. Victor Aytche (6'3", Springfield Central) – Aytche is an athletic slasher that gets to the rim and finishes from a variety of different angles. He also has a nose for the ball as he often finds a way to get his hands on the offensive glass. Joe Bramanti (6'1", Andover High School) - Bramanti has earned a reputation of getting it done. While not gifted with great height, length, or athleticism, Bramanti seems to find a way to get it done. Bramanti is powerful and can make his defender pay when he attacks the basket and he can also knock down the three if left uncovered. Bramanti was offered a scholarship from Stonehill College and is in discussions with high level educational institutions such as Darmouth. winter 2011 evaluation - Bramanti continues to find a way to get it done and attack the basket from the perimeter. Bramanti has improved pull-up and outside stroke. Bramanti really compete and it is unfortunate that he is limited by height, length, and athleticism.
Mack Burt (2011, Saint John's Prep, MA) - Burt is a 6'4" small forward who is an aggressive and active player. We first saw him in the North Sectional finals at the Garden as he had an outstanding effort knocking down threes and grabbing rebounds for St. John's Prep in their close loss to Central Catholic. This Spring and Summer, Burt continued his exceptional play as he used his physical body to both rebound and finish around the rim. Burt also stepped away and knocked down the three on a consistent basis.
Donald Celestin (6'3", Greater Lawrence Technical School ) - Celestin creates as much space off his crossover as anybody on this list. Celestin is a natural scorer that can score the ball in a variety of ways. He has much bounce and has a sweet looking mid-range pull-up. Added to all that, the athletic guard can also play the game above the rim. winter 2011 evaluations - Celestin is an athletic and long guard that has a pretty looking game and can score the basketball with the best players in Mass. Celestin has a sweet looking cross-over to a jump shot. Celestin needs to be able to go right and needs to play the game with more intensity.
Bill Claflin (6'5", Senior forward, Woburn) - winter 2011 evaluations - Claflin showed that he has good footwork and excellent touch around the basket as he scored using both hands and from a variety of different angles. Claflin also competed extremely hard on the glass as he dominated the paint on both ends of the floor. He is much improved from last year.
Pat Connaughton (6'4", St. John's Prep) – Much has been said about Pat Connaughton's play this summer as he the 6'4" guard came out of nowhere to earn scholarships at Notre Dame, Tennessee, UCLA and others. He was sensational in the Super 16 in Connecticut proving his worth against highly regarded Jermaine Sanders and his New Heights team. Things only got better in Orlando as Connaughton played incredibly well and consequently took his recruitment to the very highest levels with Notre Dame, Tennessee, UCLA, and more offering scholarships. Connaughton has proved himself more than anything else to be a winner as he competes on every possession. He is a complete player that does some of everything. He makes shots, rebounds well from the guard spot, handles the ball effectively, and has a great body and excellent athleticism. Connaughton is the old fashion athlete that is a high major baseball prospect and would be the starting quarter back for St. John's Prep if he decided to put on the pads. winter 2011 evaluation - Connaughton has put up numbers that are through the roof this winter and has looked good at doing it. He's a winner and a pleasure to watch play. Connaughton's weakness is obvious as everybody is forcing him to go left. He need's to sure up the handle as he makes the transition to the Big East and Notre Dame.
Mathew Coppola (6'1" Watertown High School) - Coppola has earned the reputation as a guy that plays hard and with a purpose. He also is known for his long-range shooting. This Spring and Summer he showed he has developed his body and has showed he can also get into the lane as well as rebound on both ends of the floor. winter 2011 evaluation - Coppola has shot lights up all season long and has put together many big scoring games. He is an improved scorer and has proved that he knows how to win as Watertown has surprised Middlesex teams this year and are now the favorites to win the league. Coppola needs to work on putting the ball to the floor especially in a North-South fashion. He also needs to develop a better midrange game to go along with his proficient thee point shooting skills.
Erno Deshommes (6'4", Everett High School) - winter 2011 evaluation - the senior had a big night around the basket scoring 23 points on way to Everett's 61-44 victory over Haverhill. Deshommes really gets after it and is not afraid to mix it down low.
Musa Elsir (6'3", West Springfield High School) – Elsir has an excellent body and uses it effectively when he plays. He has a solid handle for a wing and can make the mid-range jump shot.
Tevin Falzon (6'7", Newton North High School) - There is no doubt that this kid is talented. At 6’7, Falzon is highly skilled and can play both inside and out. He showed that he can put the ball on the floor, step out and knock down mid-range jump shots, and finish underneath the hoop. Whenn he plays hard, he can dominatethe game because of his size and skill. Falzon is a tough player to box out which is one of the reasons why he grabs many offensive rebounds.
Alex Garstka - (6'1", Wesfield High School) - winter 2011 evaluation - Alex Garstka has had several big evenings for Westfield this year incluing pumping in 37 points against Chicopee. Garstka can score from well beyond the arc and can get to the rim and finish as well.
Pat Gooden (6'2", Belchertown High School)– We first saw Gooden at our own Mass & NH High School All-Star game. On that evening, Gooden showed that he can get open and make shots against top notch competition. He makes the three by both spotting up and coming off screens.
Mike Gorman (5'10". Methuen High School) - winter 2011 evaluation - Gorman is an excellent floor general who makes those around him better. He sees the floor well and is an excellent distributor of the basketball. Don't be fooled though, Gorman can really stroke the basketball from down town. As a matter of fact, if we have one negative about his game, it is the fact that he doesn't shoot it enough.
John Henault (6'2", St. Bernard's) Henault can flat out shoot the basketball from behind the three point arc. He also has an exceptional one-dribble pull-up as he is able to use fake and create space with the dribble. Because he is a feared shooter, often his teammates benefit from the close coverage he receives. We saw him this summer at Hoop Mountain Super Week II and again in Springfield. He is fundamentally sound on offense and has an excellent feel for the game. Henault needs to prove that he can cover at the defensive end and needs to play the game at a higher intensity level.
Jesse Hiraldo (6’5”, sr., Lawrence) - winter 2011 evaluation - Hiraldo has nice touch and can finish effectively and efficiently around the basket. He showed some nice up and under moves around the basket and had a couple of nice follow-ups.
Bryan Hurley (5'11", Boston College High School) - Hurley is a competitor and solid point guard. We watched him on the road this Spring and Summer and were impressed with his desire to win. Hurley is a scoring point guard who can be streaky from the perimeter, but he does have a good stroke. winter 2011 evaluation - Hurley who has committed to Bowdoin has shown a maturity to his game as he has been an effective floor general for B.C. High making his teammates better. Hurley has also sured up his shooting from long range. Hurley needs to continue to work on the ball handling skills, but we are sure Bowdoin will enjoy this young man.
Zach Hurynowicz (6'2", Burlington High School) - Hurynowicz has played a lot of basketball and thus is quite an intelligent on the hardwood. He’s not a guy who wows you by putting a ton of points on the board, but he understands what it means to run a team. He sets the tone with his toughness, doesn’t turn the ball over, and defends the heck out of people. Hurynowicz has improved his shooting stroke and is finishing around the basket better these days. winter 2011 evaluation - Hurynowicz put up 48 points against Woburn recently and while doing it showed us that he has made significant improvements to his shooting stroke. He continues to play the game the way it is suppose to be played, with an intent to win. He is athletic and can defend and compete on the glass. He will benefit from tightening up the handle a bit and staying under control at all times. Hurynowicz will be an excellent land for a Northeast 10 school.
Trey Jones (5'8", Reading High School) - Jones is an athletic guard who gets wherever he wants with his dribble. We have also watched Jones pull up from long-long range and make the jumpers. Beause of his blazing speed, if the youngster were to work on his game he could be a real problem. winter 2011 evaluation - Jones continued to show us blazing speed and an improved offensive arsenal as he can score in many different ways. The most impressive thing about Jones is his improvement in decision making especially given he is a point guard. Jones has made some great passes this Winter. The knock on Jones is that he doesn't compete on every play, and he needs to given his size.
Matt Kneece (6'8", Shrewsbury High School) - Kneece is 6’8 with a strong body. As a result he is able to overpower his opponent in the paint. He has a good looking drop step and is an impossible guard at the high school level when he attacks the rim.
Sam Longwell (6'2", Acton Boxborough) - Longwell is a sound basketball player that does a lot of little things right. Longwell is a seasoned basketball player that has an excellent understanding of the game and is a good team player. Nonetheless, Longwell knows when to attack the rim, and knows when and how to make shots. winter 2011 evaluation - longwell has become a better shooter, especially from behind the arc, as well as a scorer since the summer months. He continues to show that he makes those around him better. Longwell needs to continue to develop a better midrange geame and become even more effective at attacking the rim.
Samir McDaniel (6'4", New Mission) – McDaniel is a man among boys on the perimeter having made a name for himself this Spring and Summer by getting to the rim and finishing as well as posting smaller players. McDaniel game has improved this summer as he is working to add new dimensions to his offensive arsenal by developing a mid-range game. winter 2011 evaluation - McDaniel didn't play his best basketball when we saw him, yet his size along with his skill set was quite evident. McDaniel needs to keep working on his perimeter game if that is a position he anticipates playing in college.
Hans Miersma (6'8", Whittinsville Christian)- Miersma is a fundamentally sound basketball player that makes some good looking basketball plays. For the mot part, Miersma does some of everything including blocking shots, altering shots, rebounding, and scoring the basketball from 15 feet in. We would like to see Miersma become more aggressive as he as a chance to be a special player.
Raudy Minaye (6'3", Methuen High School) - Minaye is a scorer and if he has a weakness it is that he looks to score to often. There is no doubt that Minaye has a scorer's mindset. When he's on, we have seen Minaye put a lot of points on the board in a hurry. winter 2011 evaluation - Minaye showed us he can score the ball from behind the arc. Minaye needs to improve his game off the dribble.
Raudy Minaye (6'3", Methuen High School) - Minaye is a scorer and if he has a weakness it is that he looks to score to often. There is no doubt that Minaye has a scorer's mindset. When he's on, we have seen Minaye put a lot of points on the board in a hurry. winter 2011 evaluation - Minaye showed us he can score the ball from behind the arc. Minaye needs to improve his game off the dribble.
Demitri Monovoukas (6'5" sr. forward, Lexington) - winter 2011 evaluation - Monovoukas showed that he can score the basketball in a variety of ways including stroking the three. He is active around the basket and has a nice touch. Monovoukas also showed that he can run the floor and finish in transition. Monovoukas was excellent tonight and a pleasure. He will benefit from his body filling in as he will be able to play more physical. He appears to be a late bloomer and will likely improve significantly as he continues to develop his skill set.
Jaycob Morales (6'0", Central Catholic) - Morales is an adequate point guard who has a much improved stroke as he knocked down long range three's on a continuous basis this Spring and Summer. Morales best attribute is the intensity he plays the game with and the emphasis he puts on winning. More that once this Spring and Summer Morales took 5 plus charges for his team. The bottom line, Morales is the guy you want running your team if you want to win.
winter 2011 evaluation - Morales showed us that he is still the winner we said he was over the Summer. Morales is still limited in his ability to score the basketball, but would surely make a great division III basketball player. He competes and knows how to win.
winter 2011 evaluation - Morales showed us that he is still the winner we said he was over the Summer. Morales is still limited in his ability to score the basketball, but would surely make a great division III basketball player. He competes and knows how to win.
Joe Mussachia (6'5", Manchester Essex) – Mussachia is another player who helped himself this summer. Mussachia earned division II scholarship offers from St. Anselm's, Bentley, and Southern New Hampshire as well as interest from some of the top academic small colleges in the country. Mussachia's offensive game is much improved as he the southpaw showed he has good dexterity around the rim. Mussachia's shot is also much improved as he consistently knocked down the three this summer. What might be most impressive about Mussachia's is how hard he plays the game. He is a tough nose kid that is not afraid to mix up on the glass. winter 2011 evaluation - Mussachia passed up scholarships to St. Anselm's, Bentley, and Southern New Hampshire to attend division III powerhouse, Amherst College as Mussachia is a great student-athlete. Mussachia is putting up big numbers for Manchester and has continued to improve both his inside and outside game. If Mussachia has a weakness, he sometimes doesn't let the game come to him and tries to do too much. Having said that, he's a winner.
Kachi Nzerem (6'5", New Mission) – Nzerem has a long athletic body with a great physique. We loved him when we saw him in early July at the Hoop Mountain Super Week II. Nzerum played exceptionally well the entire week by making plays above the rim on both ends of the floor. Nzerem continued to play well during the middle portion of the live period as Division I coaches were intrigued because of his explosive combination of power and athleticism in addition to a good shooting touch from behind the three-point arc. winter 2011 evaluation - We really like his game as it very polished offensive game. At 6'5" he can step away and knock down threes. He is a scholarship player that can play at the divison I level if he is willing to compete on every possession.
Richard Rogers (6'4", St. John's Shrewsbury) - Rogers is an all purpose forward who can get it done in a variety of ways. His best stuff usually comes in transition type basketball game as he is very effective scoring around the basket. Rogers has a nice midrange game that include a sound pull-up jumper.
Kachi Nzerem (6'5", New Mission) – Nzerem has a long athletic body with a great physique. We loved him when we saw him in early July at the Hoop Mountain Super Week II. Nzerum played exceptionally well the entire week by making plays above the rim on both ends of the floor. Nzerem continued to play well during the middle portion of the live period as Division I coaches were intrigued because of his explosive combination of power and athleticism in addition to a good shooting touch from behind the three-point arc. winter 2011 evaluation - We really like his game as it very polished offensive game. At 6'5" he can step away and knock down threes. He is a scholarship player that can play at the divison I level if he is willing to compete on every possession.
Richard Rogers (6'4", St. John's Shrewsbury) - Rogers is an all purpose forward who can get it done in a variety of ways. His best stuff usually comes in transition type basketball game as he is very effective scoring around the basket. Rogers has a nice midrange game that include a sound pull-up jumper.
Brian Salvesen (6'2", senior forward, Andover) - Salvesen is a bit undersized to be competing at the forward postion. However, he plays extremely hard and was efficient and effective in cleaning up misses and coming up with 50/50 balls.
Mickel Simpson (6'4", Woburn High School) - Simpson has had an impressive Spring and Summer playing the point guard position. Simpson has size and athleticism. During this past AAU season, we saw Simpson take the ball down the lane for an impressive dunk, and then a couple of minutes later, he stuck a pretty looking long range three. Simpson needs to get a better understanding of the game, but there is no doubt that is offensive capability is superb. winter 2011 evaluation - Simpson has great size and athleticism for a point guard and looks like he should dominate a basketball game. He can shoot it from long range, and explode at the rim. Simpson weakness is that he doesn't have the greatest set of hands and sometimes this results in unforced turnovers.
Evan Sheehan (6'1", senior guard, Central) - winter 2011 evaluation - Sheehan is an athletic guard that can do a bit of everything. He can knock down the three, put the ball to the floor, and rebound the basketball from the guard position. He also showed he can perform in the clutch. Sheehan can be the difference maker for Central come playoff time.
John Swords (6'11", Lincoln Sudbury) - Swords is an intriguing big man because his size automatically changes the game. At 6'10", he block and/or changes a slew of shots. Swords can also move a bit for a big guy and can finish close to the basket. winter 2011 evaluation - Swords continues to get better and has continued to grow as he has shown some better footwork on the block. Swords is going to be an impact player at Bowdoin next year. If he continues to improve, he could be a game changer in the NESCAC.
Jules Tavarus (6'3", New Bedford High School) - winter 2011 evaluation - Tavares is an explosive athletic guard that can get to the rim at will and thus dominate the game at times. He is also a good playmaker that can get into the lane and distribute the basketball. Tavarus is a decent shooter who needs to develop a more consistent perimeter game.
Jimmy Zenevitch (6'7", Central Catholic High School)- The southpaw forward is a very skilled player from anywhere inside of 15 feet and an especially good passer for a big man. He is an exceptional set shot from 12 foot range and has a knack for scoring. Zenevitch also has a good set of hands and can score with his back to the basket. winter 2011 evaluation - Zenevitch has shown un that he can catch and finish around the basket with the best of them in high school basketball. Zenevitch can also run the floor and finish in transition. Zenevitch needs to continue to improve his range from the perimeter and working on his handle would make him a step-away-4 at Assumpion College next year.
Class of 2012
Khary Bailey-Smith (6'0", forward, Weymouth) - winter 2011 evaluation - An undersized forward, Lugay is very athletic and strong and gets after the glass on both ends. He is a fierce competitor who comes up with several big rebounds and put-backs. Lugay way needs to improve his perimeter skills some so that is able to step away from the basket.
John Basile (6'1", Longmeadow High School) – Basile is a playmaker who is good with the ball, aggressive going to the rim, and can finish with both hands.
Chris Bishop (6'1", Manchester) - Bishop can do a little bit of everything. He can knock down the three and is very effective in getting out in front for transition baskets. Bishop also plays within himself and makes smart decisions with the basketball.
Adam Bramanti (6'1", Masconomet Regional High School) - Bramanti has game and can score in a multitude of different ways. He has a sweet looking three point stroke and an excellent dribble to pull-up. He can also finish around the rim, as well as in the lane with floaters and pull-ups. As he continues to improve his skill set, Bramanti will become stronger and more confident attacking the basket and finishing at the rim. winter 2011 evaluaiton - Bramanti has got a lot of attention at Masconomet this winter and has faced box-in-ones and other trick defenses. Nonetheless, Bramanti has game and can shoot off the dribble as well as from behind the arc. Bramanti lacks athleticism, but the bottom line with this young man is that he can score the basketball.
Mike Carbone (5'9", Saint John's Prep) - Carbone is a scrappy player that gets it done on both ends of the floor. He plays extremely hard and creates opportunities for himself in transition. Carbone can also knock down the three and always seems to come up with the big basket. winter 2011 evaluation - Carbone has had some real nice games for the Prep this winter putting up over 20 points more than once. Carbone competes on every possession and doesn't like to lose. Carbone is limited in size and athletically, but he's a winner.
Rony Fernandez (5'10", Charlestown High School) Fernandez is a an excellent shooter who can make things happen off the dribble.
Steve Haladyna (6'3", Saint John's Prep) - The 6'3" Haladyna just makes plays. Although not always pretty, Haladyna finds a way to put the ball in the basket. He competes extremely hard and has a great knack for the basketball, especially off the offensive boards. Haladyna needs some work on his skills so that he becomes a better shooter and more effective off the dribble. winter 2011 evaluation - Same old Haladyna. Gets his hand on all the 50/50 balls and finishes all the garbage around the basket. Haladyna is also tough wen he gets head of steam from the wing. Haladyna could be real special if he develops his ball handling and shooting stroke.
Dana Hines (6'7", Corcord Carlisle) - Hines is a big and powerful forward who is still raw. But his size and strength inside makes him a factor in most basketball games he competes in. Hines is still a work in progress, but his upside is impressive. Hines need to work on finishing around the basket.
Chris Bishop (6'1", Manchester) - Bishop can do a little bit of everything. He can knock down the three and is very effective in getting out in front for transition baskets. Bishop also plays within himself and makes smart decisions with the basketball.
Adam Bramanti (6'1", Masconomet Regional High School) - Bramanti has game and can score in a multitude of different ways. He has a sweet looking three point stroke and an excellent dribble to pull-up. He can also finish around the rim, as well as in the lane with floaters and pull-ups. As he continues to improve his skill set, Bramanti will become stronger and more confident attacking the basket and finishing at the rim. winter 2011 evaluaiton - Bramanti has got a lot of attention at Masconomet this winter and has faced box-in-ones and other trick defenses. Nonetheless, Bramanti has game and can shoot off the dribble as well as from behind the arc. Bramanti lacks athleticism, but the bottom line with this young man is that he can score the basketball.
Mike Carbone (5'9", Saint John's Prep) - Carbone is a scrappy player that gets it done on both ends of the floor. He plays extremely hard and creates opportunities for himself in transition. Carbone can also knock down the three and always seems to come up with the big basket. winter 2011 evaluation - Carbone has had some real nice games for the Prep this winter putting up over 20 points more than once. Carbone competes on every possession and doesn't like to lose. Carbone is limited in size and athletically, but he's a winner.
Rony Fernandez (5'10", Charlestown High School) Fernandez is a an excellent shooter who can make things happen off the dribble.
Steve Haladyna (6'3", Saint John's Prep) - The 6'3" Haladyna just makes plays. Although not always pretty, Haladyna finds a way to put the ball in the basket. He competes extremely hard and has a great knack for the basketball, especially off the offensive boards. Haladyna needs some work on his skills so that he becomes a better shooter and more effective off the dribble. winter 2011 evaluation - Same old Haladyna. Gets his hand on all the 50/50 balls and finishes all the garbage around the basket. Haladyna is also tough wen he gets head of steam from the wing. Haladyna could be real special if he develops his ball handling and shooting stroke.
Dana Hines (6'7", Corcord Carlisle) - Hines is a big and powerful forward who is still raw. But his size and strength inside makes him a factor in most basketball games he competes in. Hines is still a work in progress, but his upside is impressive. Hines need to work on finishing around the basket.
Zach Karalis (6'1", North Andover High School) - Karalis is a good three point shooter that can stretch the defense. He is active and can rebound the basketball and is effective in transition. Karalis needs to develop more game especially off the dribble. winter 2011 evaluation - Karalis continues to score the ball from both the perimeter and off the dribble. He has shown a better game of the dribble and can knock it down from behind the arc. Karalis is always moving and is a tough matchup for many guards.
Jake Laymen (6'7", King Phillips) - Laymen had one of the best summers of all players in New England. Laymen is a long forward with a good built and soft shooting touch. Layman showed this Spring and Summer that he has a chance to play at a high-major level. Laymen is impressive in transition, and can finish well above the rim. He also has a nice stroke from behind the three point arc. Much of what Laymen has is still potential, but we are more than confident that his potential will be realized. winter 2011 evaluation - He's just real good. He's a 6'7" guard who has made great improvements over the last year. He's realizing the potential we had talked about and he is now a high major prospect. We just will have to wait and see if he goes to college or takes an extra year to up his stock at Prep school.
Jake Laymen (6'7", King Phillips) - Laymen had one of the best summers of all players in New England. Laymen is a long forward with a good built and soft shooting touch. Layman showed this Spring and Summer that he has a chance to play at a high-major level. Laymen is impressive in transition, and can finish well above the rim. He also has a nice stroke from behind the three point arc. Much of what Laymen has is still potential, but we are more than confident that his potential will be realized. winter 2011 evaluation - He's just real good. He's a 6'7" guard who has made great improvements over the last year. He's realizing the potential we had talked about and he is now a high major prospect. We just will have to wait and see if he goes to college or takes an extra year to up his stock at Prep school.
Chris Lee (6'4", Lexington High School) – Lee is a big man who is tough and strong around the rim but also has some perimeter skills and a good feel for the game. winter 2011 evaluation - Lee has great size and a great body and showed us that he is a physical specimen on the basketball court and can attack the rim and knock down shots from foul line extended. Lee needs to extend his range beyond the three point arc and improve his ball handling skills.
Craig Luschenat (5'10", junior point guard, Andover) - winter 2011 evaluation - Luschenat is a solid player that takes care of the basketball under pressure and finds the open man. As an added bonus for a point guard, Luschenat can knock down both the three and midrange pull-ups.
Akosa Maduegbunam (6'3", Charlestown High School) - Maduegbunam is an athletic guard that can get to ther rim and finish well above the cylinder. Maduegbunam also has an improved stroke as he is having more success knocking down the three. winter 2011 evaluation - Maduegbunam has continued to improve and can really attack the rim based on his athleticism. Maduegbunam future will depend on how far his skill set comes over the nest year.
Peter Miller (6'9", Winchester HS)- Miller is a fundamentally sound big man that had his stock increase this Spring and Summer. Miller was successful in catching and finishing with a smooth touch. Miller also showed that he can move away from the basket a bit and make the 12 foot jumper. Miller needs to be a little more aggressive and get stronger, and he will be a division 1 prospect. winter 2011 evaluation - Miller continues to improve his skill set as he has nice touch both in close and from 15 feet away. Miller needs to continue to get stronger and become more aggressive.
Trevon Moore (6'0", East Boston High School) – He has a gear beyond most with great speed and quickness and uses it to make plays on both sides of the court. He is super creative with his dribble penetration and no less effective on the defensive end where he consistently forces the opposition into turnovers.
Sean Nally (5'10", Manchester) - winter 2011 evaluation - Nally is an intelligent point guard who makes sound decisions under pressure. Nally is cool, calm, and collected with the basketball in his hands as he makes smart decisions with hte basketball. He also showed us that he can not be left open as he can knock down the open three and get to the rim and finish around the basket. Nally lacks a little bit of athleticism, but makes up with his determination.
Jared Neumann (6'3", Northampton High School) – Neumann can rebound and finish in traffic and has the skills to push the ball up the floor himself. Neumann has much potential as his body is still in the developmental phase.
Chris O'Keefe (6'2", jr. guard, Lexington) - .O'Keefe had a great body and is effective when he uses it. O'Keefe skill set needs continued work if he wants to develop into an effective guard.Luis Puello (5'10", Central Catholic High School) - Puello plays the game as hard as any player in New England. He competes on every play and makes every dribble a nightmare for opponents that don't have an exceptional handle of the basketball. Puello gets his hands on a ton of basketballs and is an exceptional rebounder given his height. Although not a great scorer, he gets points off of pure hustle. He's a winner. winter 2011 evaluation - Puello still plays harder than anybody in New England. He competes on every possession and wins games. His weaknesses remain the same as his size and skill don't add up.
Kenny Reed (5'10", Reading High School) - This summer was our first look at the sophomore guard and we came away impressed. He’s a strong and powerful point who goes to the rim with authority and is equally effective creating for others thanks to some terrific court vision. Reed is also a scoring point guard who finds many ways to put the ball in the hoop. Like many on this list, with some skill work, Reed has a chance to be special. winter 2011 evaluation - Reed still has a chance to be a special player as he can finsih acrobatically around the rim and has a good understanding of the game. Reed needs to compete every time down the floor.
Parker Rogers (5’11”, jr., Haverhill) - winter 2011 evaluation - Rogers is an explosive southpaw guard that has multiple gears. He is extremely athletic and can get to the rim. Rogers has made significant improvements since last year and will be one talented high school basketball player during his senior campaign.
Rakim Smith-Lartey ( 5’6”, Somerville High School) – He is good with the ball and very crafty inside the lane as he is able to get things done.
Patrick Talentino (6'0", Saint John's Shrewsbury) – We first saw Talentino at our own MA-NH High School Basketball Report All-Star game. Talentino has a nice dependable shooting stroke, a good understanding of the game, as well as the ability to handle and pass the basketball.
Maurice Taylor (6'2", Cambridge Ringe and Latin)- Taylor is still a baby physically. His length and athleticism are tremendous, and he has shown a nice mid-range game. Taylor can handle the ball some in the open court and competes hard. It will be interesting to watch him develop over the next year. winter 2011 evaluation - Taylor competes hard and plays to win. He does have a mid-rnge game and can put the ball onto the floor some. However given his size, Taylor's skill set needs to develop rapidly.
Mike Thorpe (6'0", Newton North High School) – Thorpe does not have the explosive nature of many other guards, but his basketball I.Q. is extremely high. He’s creative and crafty inside the lane, is a knockdown three-point shooter with an equally good pull-up game. - winter 2011 evaluation - Thorpe is a seasoned basketball player that knows how to score the basketball in a variety of ways. He was impressive when we saw him scoring in a multitude of ways. He is not exceptionally athletic, but continues to be crafty and creative and thus can find his way to the rim. Thorpe is a streaky three point shooter and thus can knock down several in a row. He also has a nice shot fake, to one dribble, to a sweet looking pull. Thorpe needs to sure up his handle so he is less likely to turn the ball over in the open court.
Jerry Ellis-Williams (6'5", jr. forward, Reading) - winter 2011 evaluation - Ellis-Williams had some moments tonight as he had some nice finishes around the basket and some impressive rebounds. Ellis-Williams also showed he is able to step away and make shots. Ellis-Williams needs to play more physical, especially around the basket.
Class of 2013
Nate Anderson (6'6", New Mission High School) – Anderson is still a work in progress, but he has length and is likely to become a force in the paint. winter 2011 evaluation - Anderson showed us that he has a good motor and is very aggressive. Given his size and athleticism, if he continues to work hard, Anderson could become a very good player.
LQuan Arnum (5'6", Dartmouth High School) - Arnum creates many problems for his opponents. He comes up with a boatload of steals and converts many of them to easy baskets. Defensively, he is very talented and should look to improve his offensive game so that he may become a great all-around player.
Riyad Asad (6'2", West Springfield High School)– Asad has become an extremely smooth and versatile scorer who puts the ball in the basket in a variety of different ways.
Joel Barroa (6'4', Central Catholic High School) - Barroa is an athletic and long wingman that competes hard and gets his hands on many balls. Barroa can really run the floor and is exceptional in transition. He also has a nice stroke and can knock down the three. Barroa is a determined rebounder and gets after it on the glass. Barroa's weakness may be that he doesn't have the greatest set of hands and needs to work on that area. winter 2011 evaluation - Berroa has great lenght and size and gave us some of everything when we saw him including double-digit rebounds, a nice stroke from behind the three, and the ability to put the ball to the floor. His weakness is still his hands.
Jaylen Blakely (5'9", Brockton High School) – Blakely is a scoring threat every time he touches the ball. He is a deep threat from the point guard position as he has a picture perfect release to his jumper. Not one dimensional, Blakely is equally effective slashing to the basket.
Josh Bosworth (6'3", East Longmeadow High School) - Bosworth is still a baby physically but has a good upside.
Aaron Calixte (5'10", Stoughton HS) – Has gear beyond most others and uses it to make plays on both ends of the floor. Great body, fast and effective.
Derek Collins (6'2", North Andover High School) - Collins has plenty of game as he can score the basketball in more ways than anybody on the list. In the half court offense, Collins can get any where he want to go. He can make shots from anywhere on the floor. He can knock down the three, make the pull-up, finish the floater, and has some pretty up and under moves. He is masterful in creating space off the dribble and has a deadly pull-up as well as some acrobatic finishes around the basket. Collins is also athletic and strong and knows how to use his body effectively. Collins needs to improve his ability to handle the basketball in the open court. 2011 winter evaluations - Collins is one of the best scorers in the State and showed us on several occassions that he can get points in bunches. Collins is an athletic guard that can put the ball on the floor and finish acrobatically around the basket. He has been stroking it very well for North Andover this year as he has a quick and deadly release. His pull-up is as pretty. We can invision Collins shot faking, and penetrating down the lane and dunking in the near future. Added to all this, Collins has a great understanding of the game and is a great passer. If Collins is willing to put the time in to be able to transition to point guard, he will make himself a real special prospect.
Norris Cuevas (6'0", Springfield Central High School )– Cuevas is a strong and physical guard that goes to the rim with a purpose. Cuevas showed us a much better jump shot this Spring and Summer.
Sam Dowden (6'4", Andover High School) - The 6'4" swingman is active all over the court. Dowden once known has a four man has done an exceptional job transitioning his game to that of a perimeter player. Dowden has a great stroke and can knock down shots from well beyond the arc. He also has a pretty crossover to a pull-up and has much success getting to the rim with both hands. Added to that, Dowden is an exceptional rebounder. What we like best about Sam Dowden is his desire to play and improve. Dowden needs to continue to develop his guard skills. winter 2011 evaluation - Dowden is unique in that he can do it all as he can score from deep, has a great pull-up, and can put the ball to the floor with both hands and get to the rim and finish. Added to that, the sophomore competes hard on the glass and plays with intensity. Having all these talents, Dowden is the type of high school player that should put up much bigger numbers. Soon he will realize how good he is, and when he does, look out.
Ramon Gibbons (6'1", Charlestown High School) - Gibbons is a tough and physical guard that attacks the rim. He is an outstanding competitor that can take over a basketball game with his strength and will. We have seen him put his team on his back on many occasions and lead his team to victory. Gibbons needs to develop more finesse in his game so he relies less on a brute force approach. He also needs to improve his long range and pull-up jump shot.
Jameilen Jones (6'2, Boston College High) - Jones is a talented guard with good size and great quickness. He has an exceptional crossover which allows him to get to the rim with ease. He's a talent with exceptional upside and we expect to hear lots more about him. Jones needs to improve his outside stroke. winter 2011 evaluation - Jones was an effective and efficient player for BC High when we saw as he makes most of his plays around the basket. If Jones is going to continue to grow as a basketball player he must move his game away from the basket.
Demitry Lewis (5'8", Charlestown High School) - Lewis is an explosive point guard who gets where he wants to go and can finish around the rim. He also has exceptional point guard skills as he continuously finds the open man.
Jesse Maresca (6'0", Wachusett Regional High School) – Maresca is a very good catch and shoot threat who understands the game and makes good decisions with the basketball.
Brice McCallister (6'1", East Longmeadow High School) – McCallister has made huge improvements over the last few months, and because of his physical tools, his upside is promising. His upside is immediately evident as he has the physical tools to become an exceptional player.
Jameilen Jones (6'2, Boston College High) - Jones is a talented guard with good size and great quickness. He has an exceptional crossover which allows him to get to the rim with ease. He's a talent with exceptional upside and we expect to hear lots more about him. Jones needs to improve his outside stroke. winter 2011 evaluation - Jones was an effective and efficient player for BC High when we saw as he makes most of his plays around the basket. If Jones is going to continue to grow as a basketball player he must move his game away from the basket.
Demitry Lewis (5'8", Charlestown High School) - Lewis is an explosive point guard who gets where he wants to go and can finish around the rim. He also has exceptional point guard skills as he continuously finds the open man.
Jesse Maresca (6'0", Wachusett Regional High School) – Maresca is a very good catch and shoot threat who understands the game and makes good decisions with the basketball.
Brice McCallister (6'1", East Longmeadow High School) – McCallister has made huge improvements over the last few months, and because of his physical tools, his upside is promising. His upside is immediately evident as he has the physical tools to become an exceptional player.
Ryan Murphy (6'2', Winchester H.S.) - Murphy has a good skill set and his best days are ahead.
Jonathan Perez (5'11", Lowell High School) – When we saw Perez in the Spring we were more than impressed with his versatility as a scorer as he knocked down threes and made some great slashes to the basket for layups. Perez is a strong guard that shows he is able to finish a after taking a hit as he uses his body effectively to make field goals. Perez also works down the defensive end of the floor. Perez needs to become a bit more consistent with his three point stroke. winter 2011 evaluation - Perez continues to impressive with his physical play. Perez showed us that he may be one of the best scorers in his class. Perez has always been known as a physical slasher who can get in the paint and cause problems. Although his slashing and finishing was evident, it was his improved jump shot that caught our eye. Perez's jump shot is so much improved that it is now a weapon for him. Perez is an excellent scorer, but he sometimes tries to to hard to score. The result is that he sometimes makes unwise decisions with the basketball. He needs to let the game come to him.
Ryan Perron (5'11", North Attleboro High School) – Tough competitor who isn’t afraid to mix it up physically. Perron is a good floor general who has a very nice shooting stroke.
Colin Richey (6'0", Whitinsville Christian) - Richey is an extremely efficient point guard who has an excellent understanding of the game. We really like him because he is the type of player that makes everybody on his team better. Sometime Richey is unselfish to a fault. Richey needs to become a better offensive threat by improving his three point stroke and pull-up.
Kamari Robinson (6'4", Springfield Central) – Robinson boasts a strong frame with good explosion in both his leaping ability and first step. He can elevate over the pack to grab rebounds from the guard position. He also is effective in pushing the ball up the floor himself, and can both finish and distribute the basketball.
Jaquille Taylor (6'8", Cambridge, Rindge & Latin) – Taylor is a star in the making. He is another young prospect in this class that has a whole lot of upside. He is currently 6'8" tall with extremely long arms and quick feet. As his body continues to develop, he is going to end up with all the physical tools he’ll need to be a division 1 basketball player. His motor is also impressive as Taylor is very active on both ends of the court, flying around and getting his hands on a lot of balls. Taylor need to work on his skill set and become a more effective scorer around the basket. winter 2011 Evaluation - Taylor is an improved player from last year and seems to be in great shape. He is learning how to play the game. There are few left-handed players with his combination of size, athleticism, and youth, and this makes him a division 1 prospect. The question for Taylor is what position he will play in college. He's a center rigth now, but his body make up and pesonality make him better served as a step away four-man. Taylor would still benefit significantly from improving his range and working on his ability to put the ball to the floor.
Jared Terell (6'2", Weymouth High School) - Terrell is a long athletic wing player who is very effective in the open court. Terrell showed us that he is a more than effective rebounder for his size, and more impressively, he knows how to push the basketball after he hauls it in. Terrell needs to continue his offensive skills in the half court. - winter 2011 evaluation - Terrell body is even better as the shophomore has a great basketball body as he his long and well cut up. Terrell is extremely athletic and can make a highlight real off of one game. When we saw him, he showed us on four different occasions that he can soar way above the rim and slam it home. Terrell also showed us that he has some game from the perimeter as he can put it on the floor and that he as a good midrange game with some impressive fade away pull-ups. Terell's game still needs improvement in the half court and he needs to improve his shooting stroke which is a bit flat and extend his shooting range. Having said that, he is quite a talent.
Cornelius Tyson (6'1", Springfield Central High School) – The Springfield Central floor general has a tremendous presence and charisma at the point and is an instinctive playmaker with a great feel for the game. His handle is smooth and efficient, his court vision outstanding, and his composure and decision making off the charts. Combine that with a good understanding of when to distribute the ball and when to attack, and a good basketball body we can see why this young man is going to be a division 1 point guard prospect. Tyson could use some work on his jumper which is a bit inconsistent.
Noah Vonleh, (6'7", Haverhill High School) - Vonleh, who just turned 15 years old in August, has the greatest upside of any basketball player in New England. Vonleh is long and athletic and his body has a long way to go. Vonleh can literally play all five positions on the basketball court. He can guard opposing teams’ tallest player and he can also take the ball up the court. Vonleh has an impressive moves off the dribble that allows him to get to the rim effectively. He has made much improvement is his shot and will need to continue to improve in that area. winter 2011 evaluation - Vonleh is the best basketball prospect we have seen in a high school basketball uniform in the last 25 years of covering High School basketball. Vonleh is likely the most improved basketball player in New England. Vonleh is all of 6’7” and has grown a couple of inches since the beginning of the summer. Added to that, his body is starting to fill in, and his athleticism and skill level are off the charts. At 6’7”, his ability to handle the basketball like a guard makes him a huge threat whenever he has the basketball in his hands. Vonleh has also shown a better understanding of the game as some of the passes he has made this young season demonstrate his growth as a basketball player. Vonleh’s perimeter shooting has improved significantly, but it is still an area that needs more improvement.
Class of 2014
Colin Richey (6'0", Whitinsville Christian) - Richey is an extremely efficient point guard who has an excellent understanding of the game. We really like him because he is the type of player that makes everybody on his team better. Sometime Richey is unselfish to a fault. Richey needs to become a better offensive threat by improving his three point stroke and pull-up.
Kamari Robinson (6'4", Springfield Central) – Robinson boasts a strong frame with good explosion in both his leaping ability and first step. He can elevate over the pack to grab rebounds from the guard position. He also is effective in pushing the ball up the floor himself, and can both finish and distribute the basketball.
Jaquille Taylor (6'8", Cambridge, Rindge & Latin) – Taylor is a star in the making. He is another young prospect in this class that has a whole lot of upside. He is currently 6'8" tall with extremely long arms and quick feet. As his body continues to develop, he is going to end up with all the physical tools he’ll need to be a division 1 basketball player. His motor is also impressive as Taylor is very active on both ends of the court, flying around and getting his hands on a lot of balls. Taylor need to work on his skill set and become a more effective scorer around the basket. winter 2011 Evaluation - Taylor is an improved player from last year and seems to be in great shape. He is learning how to play the game. There are few left-handed players with his combination of size, athleticism, and youth, and this makes him a division 1 prospect. The question for Taylor is what position he will play in college. He's a center rigth now, but his body make up and pesonality make him better served as a step away four-man. Taylor would still benefit significantly from improving his range and working on his ability to put the ball to the floor.
Jared Terell (6'2", Weymouth High School) - Terrell is a long athletic wing player who is very effective in the open court. Terrell showed us that he is a more than effective rebounder for his size, and more impressively, he knows how to push the basketball after he hauls it in. Terrell needs to continue his offensive skills in the half court. - winter 2011 evaluation - Terrell body is even better as the shophomore has a great basketball body as he his long and well cut up. Terrell is extremely athletic and can make a highlight real off of one game. When we saw him, he showed us on four different occasions that he can soar way above the rim and slam it home. Terrell also showed us that he has some game from the perimeter as he can put it on the floor and that he as a good midrange game with some impressive fade away pull-ups. Terell's game still needs improvement in the half court and he needs to improve his shooting stroke which is a bit flat and extend his shooting range. Having said that, he is quite a talent.
Cornelius Tyson (6'1", Springfield Central High School) – The Springfield Central floor general has a tremendous presence and charisma at the point and is an instinctive playmaker with a great feel for the game. His handle is smooth and efficient, his court vision outstanding, and his composure and decision making off the charts. Combine that with a good understanding of when to distribute the ball and when to attack, and a good basketball body we can see why this young man is going to be a division 1 point guard prospect. Tyson could use some work on his jumper which is a bit inconsistent.
Noah Vonleh, (6'7", Haverhill High School) - Vonleh, who just turned 15 years old in August, has the greatest upside of any basketball player in New England. Vonleh is long and athletic and his body has a long way to go. Vonleh can literally play all five positions on the basketball court. He can guard opposing teams’ tallest player and he can also take the ball up the court. Vonleh has an impressive moves off the dribble that allows him to get to the rim effectively. He has made much improvement is his shot and will need to continue to improve in that area. winter 2011 evaluation - Vonleh is the best basketball prospect we have seen in a high school basketball uniform in the last 25 years of covering High School basketball. Vonleh is likely the most improved basketball player in New England. Vonleh is all of 6’7” and has grown a couple of inches since the beginning of the summer. Added to that, his body is starting to fill in, and his athleticism and skill level are off the charts. At 6’7”, his ability to handle the basketball like a guard makes him a huge threat whenever he has the basketball in his hands. Vonleh has also shown a better understanding of the game as some of the passes he has made this young season demonstrate his growth as a basketball player. Vonleh’s perimeter shooting has improved significantly, but it is still an area that needs more improvement.
Class of 2014
Jalen Adams (6'0", Melrose H.S.) - Adams is an exceptional athlete that shows he can get to the basket at will. Adams will be special if he can develop the jump shot.
Drew Belcher (6'4", fr. forward, Reading) - Belcher has a great athletic body and used it to battle inside. He has great upside and his best days are ahead.
Patrick Benzan(5'10", Roxbury Latin) – A talented floor general with a feel for the game beyond his years. Benzan is super clever and very crafty as he uses his body well, is an excellent distributor, an can score the basketbal when he needs to.
TreVon Betts( 5'6", Weymouth) – Betts is very good with the ball and a capable shot maker from the perimeter.
Liam Bruno (6'0", Newton North) - Bruno is a tough and hard nose guard that gets after it on both ends of the floor. Bruno understands the game and knows how to put himself in positions to score.
Kevin Connor (6'3", Mansfield H.S.) - Connor is long, athletic and active around the basket.
Aaron Falzon (6'6", Newton North H.S.) - Falzon has a nice touch and a real feel for the game. Falzon has an exceptional skill set as he can shoot, dribble, and pass the basketball. Falzon also looks impressive starting the transition. The future looks bright. - winter 2011 evaluation - Falzon showed us that he can play inside and out. He had a couple of nice looking moves on the block, knocked down a three, and had a nice shot fake to a drive. Falzon has excellent rotation on the basketball which we observed when he stroked the three and finished two clutch free throws late in the game. He is most effective from the perimeter as he can knock down shots, pass, and put the ball to the floor. Most of Falzon's weaknesses will be taken care over time as he will get stronger in due time and become more consistent finishing around the basket. Falzon is most effective on the perimeter as his skill set is excellent, but he will need to work on foot speed if he will be able to defend the perimeter.
Shane Farley (6'2", Freshman guard, Burlington) - Farley showed us that he is a player of the future as he is an athletic guard with skill. On his first offensive opportunity of the evening, the Freshman had an excellent crossover to a sweet looking pull-up that was all net. He also showed us a quick first step as he beat his defender off the dribble before finding an open teammate. Maybe the most impressive thing about Farley is the fact that he has the mindset of an upperclassman and not a Freshman. He's clearly not afraid to put it up. The future is bright for this young man.
Shane Farley (6'2", Freshman guard, Burlington) - Farley showed us that he is a player of the future as he is an athletic guard with skill. On his first offensive opportunity of the evening, the Freshman had an excellent crossover to a sweet looking pull-up that was all net. He also showed us a quick first step as he beat his defender off the dribble before finding an open teammate. Maybe the most impressive thing about Farley is the fact that he has the mindset of an upperclassman and not a Freshman. He's clearly not afraid to put it up. The future is bright for this young man.
Jonathan Joseph (5'9", Brockton H.S.) - Joseph is a talented and seasoned point guard that can handle the basketball. Joseph's has a beautiful crossover.
Brendan Miller (6'2", North Andover H.S.) - Miller is an athletic guard that walks and runs on the balls of his feet. His hops are big time and thus he is an exciting prospect. He's still not a polished ball handler or shooter. But, if his skills can catch up to his athleticsm, he could be a force to wrecken with in the future.
Brendan Miller (6'2", North Andover H.S.) - Miller is an athletic guard that walks and runs on the balls of his feet. His hops are big time and thus he is an exciting prospect. He's still not a polished ball handler or shooter. But, if his skills can catch up to his athleticsm, he could be a force to wrecken with in the future.
Jeremy Miller (6'9", Milton H.S.) - Miller is a long and athletic forward who has star written all over him. Surely still a work in progress, Miller has the chance to be the real deal.
Brian Mukasa (5'9", Sharon H.S.) - The talented point guard showed great speed and athleticism and is excellent in transition as he knows how to advance the basketball and makes the appropriate dish each and every time.
Frank Monteiro (6'3', Canton H.S.) - Monteiro is effective both on the glass as well as scoring around the basket.
Christian Morneweck (6'4', Freshman wing, Burlington) - Morneweck is an excellent athlete who is long and can run the the floor. He has a great basketball body. Morneweck has an excellent upside and could be a real special basketball player in the years to come.
Markus Neale (6'1", West Roxbury H.S.) - Neale has as strong body and is a talented guard that can both shoot the basketball and get into the lane.
Tyler Nelson (5'9", Central Catholic) - Nelson has had a real impressive Freshman campaign as has shown he can knock down the three on a consistent basis. What is most impressive about the young Freshman is the fact that he's not afraid to shoot the basketball even in a high level game.
Freddie Oliveira (6'3", West Roxbury H.S.) - Oliveira is a talented southpaw that has length and athleticism. Oliveira is very active and moves well without the basketball.
Mike Rodriguez (5'8", West Roxbury H.S.) - Rodriguez is a true point guard who looks to distribute the basketball and make his teammates better.
Richard Santos (5'9", Whitinsville Christian) - Santos is able to get into the middle with ease and can finish around the basket with both hands.
Drew Shea (6'6", Medfield H.S.) - Shea is physical forward who plays the game with a purpose. We love his toughness as he competes hard. He has good touch, a good midrange game, and is very effective around the basket.
Darien Smith (6'1", West Roxbury H.S.) - Smith is a talented and versatile player. He has a nice stroke from the perimeter, but is also very effective at going inside and banging with the big guys. Smith is also an effective rebounder, can lead transition, and can pass the basketball.
