In the modern day recruiting game, in an age where the Internet is king, perhaps the site most frequently referenced list by any recruiting, is that of the Rivals' recruiting rankings. It is in these rankings that fans and media determine the whose who of the high school ranks. These same rankings donned the coming of Lebron James, the elite talent of Michal Beasley, and surely enough, the incoming talent of players such as Samuardo Samuels* (Louisville) and Tyreke Evans (Memphis) for the upcoming season.

Yet, while fans glimpse at these rankings, more often than not, little thought is placed into exactly how are they contrived, and as Rivals.com Senior Analyst Justin Young would attest, it is not an easy process. There are ten's of thousands of high school prospects in the country. It is the work of two people at Rivals.com to weed the best from the best, and in the end, produce what is the most accurate list of the top basketball players in America. "Jerry Meyer [Rivals.com Senior Analyst] and myself watch as much basketball as humanly possible, mesh our brains together and come up with a list of players that we believe is the correct order of players." Young said in a recent interview.

No area is left neglected. Year in and year out, Young and Meyer attend high school games across America. In the off season of the high school leagues, the AAU circuit winds into full motion, stocked full of America's top talent. At events such as Bob Gibbons' Tournament of Champions (Durham, NC), Tyson's The Real Deal on the Hill (Fayetteville, Arkansas), Nike Peach Jam (North Augusta, GA), and the Las Vegas Summer Jam; it is not unusual to see Billy Gillispie sitting next to Rick Pitino, Jim Boeheim sitting next to Billy Donovan, or Tom Crean sitting next to Ben Howland. Of course, included in this crowd is either of the Rivals.com senior analysts, Justin Young or Jerry Meyer.

While the AAU tournaments often, by nature, gather the best talent in the country all in one gym, the high school games are also an integral part of the process. The AAU teams, often consisting of players thrown together temporarily or guided by lower-quality coaches, generally play with much less passion for their team. "There seems to be much more pride on the line [in high school games]. The games have much more meaning. I believe you really find out about the great ones in high school due to that."

Yet, the AAU tournaments and high school games are not the only way talent is picked up by Rivals, and for the elite of the elite that are lucky enough to be ranked and noticed by Rivals, there are many more who wish they could be ranked. "I get more calls and emails from players' parents and coaches than anything else. I'd say I receive roughly 20 a day about a player. More times than not, the player is a non Division I player."

So what are the criteria which separates the good from the great? As Young observes players, three main qualities are looked for in determining their skill level. "I'm an athleticism guy. I'm a size guy. Those are the two things that I look for first... Then, of course, skill set." Yet, Justin Young also cautions that talent is not the end all of scouting and ranking prospects. "The biggest thing that turns me off about a player is his attitude. If you are a problem on the court or with your coach, I can promise you that will be one of the first things that comes out of my mouth to a college coach if I'm asked about that player."

It is by these observations, that Young and Meyer slowly, but surely, order and rank the prospects scouted. As the final list is placed and published, there are always those fans ready to disagree and take arms with the rankings. Generally, and with out fail, fans always believe their players should be ranked higher. "Fan is short for fanatic. I realize that." Said Young regarding to fan opposition to the rankings. "For the most part, they don't watch the games. They speak out of ignorance and a lot of times that is dangerous. They raise the bar way too high and in turn a lot of the kids read the message boards and believe to be as fact. In turn, when I'm giving my professional opinion and it doesn't match the thoughts of the fan base, I'm perceived to be the villain. I don't mind that. That same player usually sits instead of plays (or transfers) and the fans have already moved onto the next great star. It's a continual cycle of overzealous expectations."

While disgruntled fans knock the lack of high rankings for their own players, it does not detract from the confidence of the Rivals gurus. "I think what we do is on point. That's why we do them. We put in more time than people realize trying to get them right. We don't always get it right but more times than not, we do. But at the end of the day, a ranking has never signed a scholarship paper. Never has, never will."

A special thanks to Rivals.com analyst Justin Young for contributing information in this article.

Article by Brad King

We had a chance to sit in on a brief interview with Kentucky Assistant Coach Jeremy Cox. Coach was a really nice guy and took a moment after the interview to ask about us, pose for a picture, shake my hand and wished us luck. That was an awful nice gesture by the Coach.

Coach Cox first fielded a few questions about the three point shot being moved from 19'9" (6.02 m), to 20'9" (6.325 m) for 2008--09 season.

Do you think that there are going to be less upsets in the NCAA because of the longer distance of the three point shot?

"quite possibly I mean still it's a shot that it's very makable I just don't think that it will take away from the tournament at all"

Is it harder to evaluate certain kids now because of the increased distance on the three point shot?

"You know possibly it may be ya know, down the road we'll maybe see that. We haven't played with it at all, I mean we have recruited guys that do that. I think that even last summer we were looking for guys with range and putting more of a premium on kids that can shoot the ball with range. "

Could you talk about the benefits of having an event like this for you guys as coaches?

"Well it's awesome so many kids in one arena and then it's nice to have it here in Kentucky so people can see the love and the passion for basketball in Kentucky. So obviously it's a real big advantage for us as coaches there is so many events I could talk all day long, but what a great facility this is."

I'm sure you come here and there's certain kids you want to see. Have there been times in the past where you've found a kid that hasn't been on your radar?

"No question, no question, to see this many kids together coming from rural areas, different parts of the country that you haven't seen, maybe different parts of the world showing up. So it is a place where you can find a hidden gem or something, you'll hear every Summer, a kid will pop up, a kid will come out of nowhere. By the end of the summer he'll be on the radar and every team around the country will be chasing him."

I guess it's always good just to be out to let the kids see the Coach in the UK shirt

"It's really nice to be wearing it hopefully we can do a good enough job to be wearing it for awhile."

Please stop by over the next couple of days for more from the 08' Hoopfest.

Harrison Barnes Finished the game with 13 points, at least 4 or 5 assists and a huge blocked shot. Teammate 6'8 Zach Mcabe added a game high 27 points as the Iowa Attack put on the cruise control and beat The Players 81-37. Barnes is a well rounded young man, very articulate as well. Barnes did not force the action and is a very team oriented player, but was clearly a cut above the other players on the court. After the game Barnes was kind enough to field questions from everyone.

Who was the best players you seen at the Lebron Camp?

"DeMarcus Cousins and Jon Wall, they play different positions, but Wall can pass."

Coming form the Lebron Camp in a setting like that is it any different playing here, I mean it's been a tough week for you mentally and physically?

"I think it's nice to come play with these guys to ya know? I mean to come from a setting where your playing with a whole bunch of all stars everyone is kinda somewhat selfish in a respect ya know? It's kinda hard to play with them to just meeting them, but when I come back and play with my normal team and we already have chemistry. It feels nice."

Is it almost better to come back to your normal team you know because you are kind of familiar with them?

"Well they are my friends (chuckles) I had to come back and play with the friends."

When you see these coaches out here, what is it like playing in front of them,is it kind of nerve racking?

"It was nerve racking a little while ago you just kind of become accustomed to it."

Tell us about your game a little bit what are your strengths right now and what are some of the things you need to work on?

"Right now I would say my strengths are spot up shooting and just shooting in general. Pulling up coming off of screens. I'd say that my area I need to improve the most would probably be my ball handling. In college I am going to play the 2 so I really need to sharpen up my handling."

Did you learn anything at Lebron about any of those strengths or weaknesses?

"Well they taught us a lot of drills and development in camp."

I am sure that every school in the country is recruiting you, do you have any feel or an early list at all?

"Right now I am just taking my time letting my skills develop. Recruiting right now every one's equal."

As your here in Louisville you have Louisville Kentucky and Indiana all close all three have coaches here watching you, are you interested in any of those three schools?

"Kentucky and Indiana have offered me so I am assuming a lot of interest form them and I have interest in them. As far as from Louisville they might have communicated with my head coach a little bit, but they have not communicated with me."

What are you looking for in a school?

"I want a strong academic field and basketball wise just a good solid team that can make me better and where I can make other people better. Hopefully have a national championship run and then go on to the pros."

Leave home or stay close to home, does it mater?

"I haven't decided distance yet."

Whats you GPA right now?

"3.39"

What did you want to get out of this summer?

"I just want to go and win some championships at some of these national tournaments get better and get some of my teammates some scholarships."

Do you have a time frame for when you would like cut your list?

"Not at the moment."

Do you know when you would like to make a commitment?

"I would like to go on some official visits check out some schools, check out some campuses. I haven't seen many so far so I just want to go see some schools."

Academically anything in particular your looking for?

"A strong business field. I am going to go into business administration finance."

Coach Cox was in attendance. I saw scouts from Duke, IU, Memphis and a slew of Mid Major programs.

We will have more from the Hoopfest over the next couple of days

As the Summer Camp's go into full swing we have a couple of updates that were passed along to us.

1.Shawn Kemp has said that the three schools that he is currently interested in are Washington, UK and Georgia

2. Russell Byrd a 6'7 190 junior power forward has said that Michigan State, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisville and Indiana have all been in contact with him. Byrd is a native of Fort Wayne Indiana.

3. Trae Golden: This should come down to UK and Ga.Tech with UK probably having the edge. I don't see Ohio State staying in the picture and it might be mutual.

I do know this the rumors of Golden's de-commitment have been around for some time and coincidently or not that's about the same time that Matta started to go after Anthony Johnson from Chicago very hard.What happened first is anyone's guess.

Both players are basically combo guards who may be more suited to play the 2 and it wouldn't make any sense to me for OSU to go after both,so either Matta was pro-active and started to go after Johnson or maybe Golden's recent drop in the rankings had Matta re-thinking the situation that maybe Johnson was a better fit and Golden caught wind of it an decided to open things up.

It very well may have been a mutual decision on both fronts and that is purely speculation on my part,but it would make sense OSU leads for Johnson at this point.

In either case I hope both recruits find a happy fit. If Johnson commits to OSU and Golden to UK I'm cool with that. This was passed along by a friend of the site who is an Ohio St. guy and keeps a close eye on developments in Columbus.

When Kansas City Chiefs tight end Tony Gonzalez went to dinner last Thursday night, the last thing he expected to do was to brush up on his Heimlich maneuver skills.

Ken Hunter, a life long San Diego Chargers fan was also having dinner at the same restaurant. At some point during the meal Hunter found himself choking. While everyone watched in disbelief as Hunter struggled to breath Gonzalez took the initiative and probably saved the fan of his rival:

"Tony saved my life. There's no doubt," said Ken Hunter, the manager of a shipping company. Gonzo was at dinner with his wife in Huntington Beach Thursday and noticed Hunter choking on a piece of meat. Gonzalez sprang into action and "after just a few seconds, the piece of meat popped out," Hunter confirmed. "It's a good thing Tony is so tall because I had stood up -- I think."

This is a great story for a league that has certainly had it's share of blemishes from the Vick saga to the Adam Jones debacle the NFL needs some good news to balance things out. The most alarming thing that happened in all of this is that the lifelong Chargers fan Hunter, has said that he is now a Kansas City Chiefs fan. I can understand why. I mean after all if it weren't for Gonzalez, Hunter may not have been watching any football at all next season.

This leads to my question for you guys. If someone from your favorite team's rival saved your life, would you in turn root for that team? I guess that it would be hard for anyone to honestly answer this question until you have actually felt your life slipping away and then wake up hearing that (insert any rivals name here) saved your life.

In August of 2007, Harding, NC all-conference basketball star Lakeem Jackson, a 6?5 guard, transferred to Arden's Christ School, where he repeated his junior season, Harding coach Walter Aikens had lost his star player.

The Christ School in Arden, NC has quickly become a staple of the basketball scene, David Gaines hit the ground running in 1998 as the man at the helm and has not looked back. Gaines has led the school to 3 NCSIAA state titles: 2005, 2007 and 2008. Gaines has also coached some of the top players in the country including 08? Duke commit Miles Plumlee, 09? Duke commit Mason Plumlee and 09? rising prospect Lakeem Jackson.

Lakeem Jackson is one of the most compelling prospects in the 2009 class. His smooth, rangy frame blends nicely with his ability to attack the rim. To some extent, Jackson has had to play second fiddle to the heralded Plumlee boys. If needed, Jackson is more than capable of being his teams primary option. In mid December in a tight game against game foe, Greensboro Day. It was Jackson who led his #1 ranked team to a 59-55 win. Greensboro day played superb defense on the pair of Plumlee's. Jackson then seen a weakness in the defense and exploited it:

"It was a bad matchup for us," Greensboro Day coach Freddy Johnson said of Jackson. "We had nobody to guard him on the team. We knew that going into the game. We just hoped they didn't discover it.

"They did, though."

Jackson posted a game high 18 points in clutch fashion. Jackson has slowly proved that he possess high major talent.Jackson's Junior season solidified what he already knew. The athlete averaged 15.5 points and 5.5 rebounds per contest. Coach Gaines is pleased with the pupil's progress:

"Lakeem is doing all the right things (academically and athletically)," Gaines said. "And then you add that to the kind of spring he is having (in offseason tournaments), and his stock has really risen. He's cleared some hurdles, and now (the offers) are inevitably coming."

Jackson's most recent offer came from Georgia Tech in June of 08? The Yellow Jackets threw their name into a ring that currently includes: Clemson, Marquette and South Carolina. As you may, or may not know the Wildcat staff has showed interest in Jackson for sometime now, however no offer has been extended.

The 2009 class is seemingly on course to be among the top 10 nationally. With commitments from Jon Hood and G.j. Vilarino already lined up, the Cat's seem poised to make the leap from fringe recruiting classes to standing in the batters box with the rest of the titans.

The Cat's have made it clear that Jon Wall and Daniel Orton are the primary targets for the class. With Lance Stephenson having an outside shot to land in Lexington or Europe or the Military? The obvious needs for the Wildcat's are at the point and in the post. Here is a look at a couple more o9' players that the staff has been in contact with.

6'10- Center Anthony Borden is a compelling prospect that the staff has scouted. Borden has ideal size and decent post moves, however his fundamental skills do leave something to be desired. Borden is from West Memphis, Arkansas and has also received some interest from the Razorbacks as well. The odds of this kid being offered have to be slim, however the big fella could possibly contribute early in his college career. Borden averaged 16 points and 10 boards as a junior.

6'2 Combo guard Ramon Galloway is also another kid that the staff is keeping in contact with. The Palm Beach Gardens, FL native plays his AAU ball for the talent laden Florida Rams squad.

The Rams roster includes talented 09' prospect Rakeem Buckles. Matt Ramker the Program Director for the Florida Rams had this to say to floridahoops.com about the kids game:

"Galloway can play both guard spots effectively as he shoots with range, makes good decisions with the basketball, and can penetrate and make plays for others or himself."

The Kentucky Hoopfest is July 9-13 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in downtown Louisville. Eddie Ford puts on one of the best tournaments in the nation right here in our backyard. For more info click here

Hall played his sophomore season for the Memphis University School in Memphis (TN), Where he and guard Elliot Cole led the MUS Owls to a state title. In the title game they defeated St. George's at David Lipscomb University in Nashville 65-54.

Hall chose to switch schools for his junior* campaign and now attends White Station High. J.P. Prince is an alum of White Station and was the Tenn. 2005 Gatorade and Mr. Basketball award winner. Prince originally attended Arizona before opting to return to his home state.

Hall has a solid all around game, but has been labled as a bit passive at times. Hall can score facing up or posting up. Hall has the luxury of having great court vision. Hall has very soft hands along with a decent handle on the ball, often driving to the hoop, drawing the double team and dishing the ball off for the easy two. This kid has the potential to be an all conference performer early in his college career. Hall did play U.S.A. basketball in 07? and averaged 3.0 points per game for a loaded U.S.A. white team that finished 3-2. At one time early in 07? it was rumored among Georgia Tech fans that they had a Verbal form Hall which never materialized.

Hall attended the 08' UK Elite Camp and in early July told govolsextra.com:

"I haven't narrowed anything down. I like Kentucky. I like what Bill Gillispie is trying to do," the 6-foot-7 Hall said Thursday."

"Tennessee and Memphis have offered. Kentucky is talking about offering."

So it is seemingly down to 3 schools for the top 100 prospect.

The article went on to talk about the commitment of former 09' UK target Reggie Buckner:

"My mama said I needed to go ahead and make my decision, and she had Ole Miss in mind," said Buckner, who had additional scholarship offers from Baylor, Bradley, Georgia State, Lamar, Middle Tennessee State and Southeast Missouri."

"She really didn't want me to go too far from home."

Ranked the No. 91 overall prospect in the class of 2009 by Rivals.com and the No. 19 small forward prospect nationally, Buckner averaged 16 points, 13.7 rebounds, 6.7 blocked shots, 2.5 assists and 1.2 steals per game as a junior last season in leading Manassas to its first state title game appearance since 1985.

Buckner said Kennedy told him he had one scholarship still available for 2008, but planned to hold it for Buckner until 2009.

"Kennedy told me I was their No. 1 (recruit), and that they were willing to hold a scholarship from (2008) to next year," he said. "So it's 100 percent I'm going to Ole Miss."

New York is the largest media market in the world. So naturally the talent that the city produces is going to be thoroughly documented and at times over publicized. However, the Big Apple has been home to larger than life skills that fit the billing. Players who graced NYC playgrounds and gyms include: Lamar Odom, Stephon Marbury, Kenny Anderson, Felipe Lopez, Erik Barkley, Sebastian Telfair and the most recent addition, Lance Stephenson.

Dwanye "Tiny Morton is the head coach at Lincoln High in Brooklyn, NY. Morton recently and currently taught a couple of the most hyped players in the history of hype. Sebastian Telfair and the heir to the NYC basketball throne Lance Stephenson. Morton is held in high regard by his community and rightfully so. But the Coach takes it all in stride, the good with the bad. Like the time that ESPN did the documentary on Telfair and sure enough, the kid sprains his ankle.

A hobbled Telfair was chomping at the bit to play. Was his drive to play, because he is a competitor? Or was it because his brothers conditioned him to never back down and taught him that when the " lights are on", their on? Or finally was it because Sebastian didn't want to let down his Coach? Could it be the point in the kids life when all of the things in his life culminated? Coach Morton has known Sebastian since he was 6 years old:

"My earliest memory of Sebastian was him roller-skating in the park and dribbling a basketball at the same time," says Dwayne "Tiny" Morton, Telfair's coach at Lincoln. "Maybe he was 6. I thought it was kind of stupid, but I think it really helped him with his balance and coordination."

When it came time for the native son to choose a school, there was no other option for Telfair other than to attend Lincoln. After all his cousin Stephon had flourished and thrived under then assistant coach Morton's guidance:

"Some of my earliest memories are of watching my cousin Stephon play for Lincoln," says Sebastian. "When I was 12, I got in a fight with my sister, and my mom wouldn't let me watch Lincoln play in the city championships. That was the death penalty of punishments. I cried all night long."

Lance Stephenson's hype is bigger than your hype. Stephenson has eye popping talent, with a dynamic skill set and ever-improving jumper. Stephenson was awarded the 2008 NYC Daily News Player of the Year at the 40/40 club in May. The kid led his Railsplitter squad to a huge PSAL championship game win at Madison Square Gardens, he tallied 27 points and 8 rebounds. A week later he led the team to a second straight state Federation 'AA' championship. He was plagued by early foul trouble but, managed 16 points and 12 rebounds.

An injured ankle sidelined Stephenson for the first few weeks of his Junior campaign. He was later suspended for fighting a teammate. In addition he sat out the first round of the state tournament, a reason was never disclosed. Lance Sr. remains confident that his son will not fall in the same trap that friend and fellow phenom O.J. Mayo (allegedly) landed in:

"We have a pretty solid circle, It's just me, his Mom and Lance. "We're hard-working people," Stephenson Sr. said. "We don't have people knocking on our doors and we don't entertain it. Usually, people who fall into temptation want to do it. We just want to play basketball." �

Lance's father coaches his son on the AAU circuit on the newly formed Raising Champions team

If he gets his act under control, focuses only on basketball and stays away from the proverbial dark side, then the sky is the limit for the prodigy. The list of schools produced by the Stephenson camp is almost certainly subject to daily change. The most recent one we seen listed: UK, Kansas, UNC, St. Johns, Memphis and IU. However Stephenson again listed USC in the interview at the bottom of the article.

I heard something today that holds especially true to NYC basketball: Luck is where preparation meets opportunity.

If your prepared in the city that never sleeps opportunity will come a knocking. In the end, the only person that could stop Lance, would be himself. If Lance remains on the straight and narrow he could easily sustain his lottery status. I only hope that the image that his parents and coach Morton projects of themselves is the same persona that is tutoring the potential All American. Stephenson can ill-afford to have off the court issues, keep him off the court. After all, luck is the idol of the idle and Lance is at his best when on a fast break, with his foot on the gas.

Stephenson updated his recruiting status and talked about Kentucky in this recent interview with Alex Schwartz:

NB: There's been a lot of reports lately about what colleges you're considering. Can you just clear up the air and let me know what schools you are officially considering?

LS: UCLA, USC, and Kansas.

NB: What about Kentucky?

LS: Oh yeah, I like Kentucky, [it's] a good school. I'm looking at every school, so if I just tell you a name of a school, that doesn't really mean I'm actually going to really go there, I'm just looking at them real hard right now.

NB: Are there any other schools that are a little bit further behind . . . that you're also considering? Anyone in particular?

LS: Memphis, St. John's, [Pause] Indiana, and North Carolina.

NB: Does St. John's have a bit of an edge in some ways because [it] is the home state school?

LS: Oh yeah, I was really looking at St. John's. I think I can bring New York back [to prominence], so I'm really looking at that right now.

NB: What are going to be some of the factors in your decision?

LS: [A] good place surrounding and a good coach.

NB: You mentioned USC. What do you think about the whole OJ Mayo situation right now?

LS: I think that it's real messed up, but [Pause] somebody did the wrong thing around him and I don't think that should have happened, but . . . I don't think I'm going to be in his league. I'm just focused on school and basketball right now.

(Jamal Mashburn was a NY native(Bronx). Mash racked up 1843 points in 98 career games at the University of Kentucky.)

Here are a few articles and sites that have more info on Stephenson.

http://www.bornready.tv/

New York Post

ESPN

Putting a competitive AAU basketball team on the court is a very big deal these days. There are a couple dozen dominant teams around the country and the Miami Tropics are one of them. Over 50 Tropics players have graced a division 1 roster. The Tropics also played host to one of the most publicized players ever in O.J. Mayo.

President and CEO Art Alvarez, recently caught us up on his teams' history. We covered his teams prestigious past, his current division one targets, coaching O.J. Mayo and where he last seen the UofK and UofL staff. The History of the program is that of a fast rise to AAU dominance.

The Tropics have taken advantage of a talent rich South Florida area, to mold themselves into an AAU powerhouse. Alvarez was pretty excited to talk of his teams' star crossed path with supremacy,

"We started the Tropics as a travel team in 2002 and have had great success. We are a NIKE Elite Travel team and have had the opportunity to play in all of NIKE's top events, including the Peach Jam. In the past 7 seasons we have sent (or will send including 2008), 51 players in the program to play at the division 1 level, a fact of which we are very proud. In 2006 we ventured into the professional ranks, putting a team in the ABA, and immediately had success, finishing 18-5, and ranked third of fifty four teams in the USA and parts of the world. This past December we represented the USA in the FIBA Liga De LasAmericas, one of 16 teams, worldwide, invited to the tournament. After a final four appearance, we finished with the Bronze Medal after losing out on points, in the three way tie for first, with a record of 2-1?.

The Tropics recent success has led to yet another Nike Peach Jam Invitation. Alvarez is pleased to have his team mentioned among the top 24 teams in the nation.

"It is our fourth invitation in the past five years and we are always thrilled to get the nod. Representing NIKE well is one of our main goals, and being considered as one of their top tweny four teams under their umbrella is very satisfying".

The status of the teams' top two returning players, Emari Bailey and Richie Edwards seemed to be a good place to go next. Alvarez was more than happy to give us a detailed breakdown of the talented duo.

"Emari is athletic a wing as you will find. In transition, you see glimpses of Julius Erving, with the high flying one handed thunder dunks. He shoots it well but needs to tighten his ball handling to play that 2-3 position at the next level. He can rebound, when he wants to, and has great hops. He's long and has good quickness, which makes me believe he will defend well, but he needs to be pushed in that direction, right now. Most of the Florida Schools are looking to get involved, but for the most part he is an unknown commodity".

"Richie came with us to LasVegas last July and blew up! He had offers from many of the top west coast schools, including Arizona. He has prototypical size for a 2-3 guard and can do most everything well, but he needs to continue moving forward and improving. He needs to find a consistency in his game and make every possession count. At times he looks like a McDonald's All American and at other times content being a role player. He's also involved with the Florida schools and I believe has taken unofficial visits to UCF and USF, already. I'm sure a lot of others will be on him".

The conversation then turned to recent UCF signee, Isaac Sosa. Alvarez pointed out that another one his talented players is gaining a lot of national notoriety,

"Isaac Sosa, who recently signed with UCF, made great strides after settling into high school in Florida. He was always a great shooter but his total game came of age, and for the spring part of the season, at Kingwoodand at Mississippi State, he was arguably our best player. He learned to play with a chip on his shoulder and be more aggressive which took his game to the next level".

We then had a chance to speak about O.J. Mayo. We asked Coach what it was like working with the kid,

"Incredible!" Alvarez exclaimed!

"When he called and asked to play withus, I was dumbfounded. After one game with us, I could see why he got the hype, which was completely warranted. We used him at the point, and I believe that's where he will end up as a pro. He has incredible vision and a high B-ball IQ and always put the ball where it needed to be. He averaged about 25 a game withus and could of had 40, if he was selfish. We put a good team around him with Javi Gonzalez (NC State), Freddy Asprilla (FIU), Luis Colon (Kansas State) and Jonathan Rodriguez (Campbell), and he made it go".

We then asked Alvarez a bit more about Mayo, trying to find out if his "Hollywood" reputation is deserved. Alvarez seemed happy to be able to get his take on O.J. to basketball fans.

"Glad you asked, because I can't believe all the garbage I'm hearing about him. He has to be the most humble, mega star I have ever known, and we have 3 kids in the NBA and 15 playing professionally, overseas. He's a yes sir, no sir kid, who works and works to get better. I think he had to form a hard shell because of all the hype he's had since 7thgrade, but to those he trusts and has a relationship with, its all smiles and good times. I've said it before, that whoever passes on this kid in the draft, are going to get the same ridicule the teams that passed on Jordan received. He's that good and that versatile, and we played against all of them, Rose, Beasley, Gordon, Beasley, Lawson, Singler and Love."

This Summer has been another successful one thus far for the Tropics and Alvarez updated us on the Teams' most recent news,

"A pleasant surprise". Alvarez said about these past few weeks.

"We have a very young team, but have done well. We got the Peach Jam bid for an Elite 8 appearance at the Kingwood Classic and have pretty much won two out of every three we played, most against high caliber competition. It's been a good test".

As we finished up, we thanked Alvarez for his time and asked if he had seen any of the Cat or Cardinal coaches around lately,

"I did see some in the stands at the Kingwood in Houston. I guess we'll see them when it opens up at the Peach Jam in July".

"No problem, we appreciate you giving our program a look and letting your readers see what we're about".

Sidney grew up in Jackson, Mississippi and was a know commodity from an early age by his local community. After his eighth grade season Renardo attended a basketball camp in NJ and was an instant sensation. He briefly attended Piney Woods School in Mississippi. (he was later ruled ineligable) after former Ole Miss assistant Wayne Brent recruited his father as an assistant coach. In all, Sidney has attended 3 high schools in 3 years and currently attends Fairfax Senior High.

Sidney plays his summer ball for the LA Dream team, a new team to the summer circuit. The team is actually coached by Renardo Sidney Sr.

Sidney has grown into a once in every few years kind of specimen. Standing 6?10, 270 pounds Sidney can more than hold his own in the post, probably the post in the NBA's eastern conference as well. Sidney is more than capable of knocking down the short jumper and he passes the ball as good as any other big man in his class. Not to mention his serviceable ball handling skills. He will fit nicely into high post offensive sets at the division 1 level and beyond.

Sidney played his sophomore season for division 3 power house Lakewood Artesia, CA. Sidney put the team on his broad shoulder and led the team to the state title. Producing huge hype around a dominant center, not seen in the L.A. area since Amir Johnson's dominant run.

Sidney has however been criticized at times for his work ethic, but Fairfax High coach Harvey Kitani has been coaching for 27 seasons and Sidney may be the best he's ever coached:

"He is such a phenomenal player," Fairfax Coach Harvey Kitani said. "He has a great feel for the game."

"What's amazing about the guy is he has a lot of skills," Kitani said. "I'm impressed with the fact he has a pretty complete game."

Kitani is the kind of coach that Sidney needs. Kitani takes a no nonsense, everyone is equal approach to coaching. Sidney sat out the first month of this past season with a knee injury. Sidney thought that he would leisurely walk through and ease his way back into practice in October of 2007. Sidney quickly realized that he had to go full speed that day and everyday. Kitani looks as if he came into the big fella's life at the right time. Kitani's track record should speak for itself, former LIon's include Josh Shipp, Chance Stanback and Jamal Boykin.

Sidney put up some huge numbers this past season in mid January Sidney posted 36 points (career high) 19 boards, 3 blocks and 5 assists as his Fairfax Lions won a close one 68-63. Oh yeah, 10 of his points came on dunks.

As of now, Sidney is on the the path to superstar-dome and is a sure fire lottery pick whenever he is ready to go. Kentucky is among his favorites' and its nice to see the Wildcat's consistently and seriously mentioned by top notch players. If one gets their name on enough lists, eventually it's going to pay off. Unfortunately, the overwhelming consensus is that Sidney would like to remain on the west coast.

Fairfax also has a unique variation of a shoe designed by Nike. The Lebron Zoom's were done in a limited run for the storied basketball team.

Ross-Miller was tabbed sometime ago as one of the top prospects from the 2010 class. The kid has a solid understanding of the games nuances and is adept at exploiting them. In 2006 at the14 & under AAU NationalsRoss-Miller and his Team TG Adidas teammate Jackson Jeffcoat led the team to the championship. Sports Writer Rob Taylor walked away from the tournament with this impression of Ross- Miller:

"I'm not sure that there are many players who have the heart and the determination to win that K.C. Ross-Miller has. If there was any doubt about Ross-Miller's value to his team it disappeared when he returned from an ankle injury halfway though the tournament and his team's performance picked up dramatically. Although Tim Miller's TG squad had a lot of weapons, the team was not the same when Ross-Miller was out of action. When he returned, although less than 100%, Ross-Miller went right to work slashing to the basket and drawing fouls. The kid knows how to win".

Team Texas, TG's coach Tim Miller is also a minister. Miller works to round young lives first and talent second. We recently asked Miller, what it was like to have such a profound impact on kids lives.

"This what I strive to do. I am a minister. I try to keep guys focus on life goals and stay away from distractions".

Coach Miller predicts that this summer the "real" K.C. will be unleashed. With Willie Warren and Rotnei Clarke moving on to the Big 12 and the SEC, K.C. will be the teams anchor. Coach Miller told us that what he expected and what K.C. has been working on.

"The nation has not seen the real KC yet. KC average's 20 pts and 10 asst. in school ball. When Willie Warren and Rotnei Clarke leave this summer, everyone will see the real KC. He has offensive moves, like Willie Warren and is a great passer. We wanted him just to play defense and let Rotnei and Willie do their thing last year. He's working on shooting better and playing great on the ball defense."

College basketball recruiting ethics have recently been brought to the forefront nationally. Most people aren't fond of the idea of coaches and media contacting and hounding high school freshman and sophomore's. Shouldn't the kids who are actually being recruited get a say in this? Ross-Miller committed to UofK as a freshman. We recently asked him about the ever growing trend of kids committing early:

"If that's what team have to do to win and to put their program back on top, then that's what they should do. I committed early because, I just felt like this is where I wanna be. Everything is just perfect. I wouldn't of never committed this early if I wasn't 100% sure".

Now that I know, what I do about the kid. I wouldn't be surprised if he was a coach, teacher or preacher after his basketball career. K.C. was given the nick name "the thriller" sometime ago, and rightfully so. Mr. Miller thrills on and off of the court. K.C. holds his life in the right perspective and it's clear that morally sound advice has been given to him, by coach Miller and his parents. We seperatlely asked Coach Miller and Ross-Miller, who their respective role models were. The answers were surprisingly similar from the student/athlete and the coach/preacher:

Coach Miller -"My Grandparents. They are both deceased now but the taught me to be my best in whatever I do."

Ross-Miller- "My parents because they have been there for me my whole life."

The impressions thrust upon me by Ross-Miller are that of a solid kid. The student & athlete truly embraces and absorbs, the values offered to him by parents, coaches and teachers.

Two seasons at Gig Harbor High in Washington put Clarence Trent on the map as a top tier recruit. However, Trent was not much of a student. Instead of returning to Gig Harbor the Arkansas native wisely chose to attend Findlay Prep in Nevada.

Findlay Prep's players attend classes at the Henderson International School, where tuition is about $16,000 per year. The school is for students grades 5 through 12. The school does however offer scholarships and the athletes are held to high academic standards. Findlay has a top notch gymnasium, great housing for athletes and a weight room that some colleges would like to have.This past season Findlay was also the home of Deandre Liggins, Deivides Dulkys and 6'10 Brice Massamba, a UNLV commit . Findlay is the only Prep School in the nation with a Nike sponsorship. ( I wonder why Liggins is having trouble qualifying after attending Findlay?)

At the National Prep School Showcase in late 2007, the 6'8 Trent averaged 15.5 points and 12.5 rebounds. Those numbers are fairly respectable considering the talent that he was up against. The Showcase featured some of the nations top talent. Trent finally started taking advantage of his size, not settling for jump shots. He can attack the rim and is a much improved jump shooter, but he was starting to better utilize his post ability.

Finlay Prep in Reno, Nevada really helped to develop Trent into on a well polished player. After receiving superior coaching in the classroom and on the hardwood Trent has definitely developed into a confident well rounded young man. Trent's AAU coach Bill Engram is encouraged by Trent's recent maturation:

"He has really worked hard on his game and on his body," said Bill Ingram, the Hawks' coach. "He's worked a lot of his baby fat off, and he's moving a lot better. He realizes now what kind of player he needs to be. "Clarence has just matured a whole lot."

Trent has come a long way over the last 12 months. His Findlay Prep squad sported a 32-1 record this past season while playing alot of top notch competition. Trent's numbers were respectable, 11.7 points 7.7 reabounds and had a field goal percentage over 60. Trent had the assignment of the other teams top offensive player, every game. He recently told Ryan Malashock about his responsibility's:

"I wasn't scoring much, but I was guarding the other team's best scorer," said Trent, who said he loved Arkansas but wasn't close to making a decision on where to play in college. "I can take on whatever role my coaches need now. I don't know if I would've done that last year."

Trent seems to be thriving and finally reaching his potential as a human being and a basketball player. Good for him. Trent's list has included Kentucky for sometime, and Jody Demling has always said that he thought Trent would be a Wildcat. Trent is also fond of Arkansas, Florida, UNLV, Oklahoma and UCON. The ever-maturing Trent, is definitely worth keeping an eye on.

"I've been making better decisions in all parts of my life," Trent said. "The last three years, I just wasn't doing what I should've been doing. I even flunked an English class. So, me going to prep school was the best thing for me. It's hard knowing I should be ahead of where I am with school, but it's actually helped because prep ball has tested me in so many ways."

On a side note Charles Garcia, a 6'10 220 pound JUCO kid committed to Lorenzo Romar's Washington Huskies a couple of days ago. Garcia said that he would sign in November and be available in the 09-10 season. Smith said that UK had been in contact:

"He was all-state last year as a freshman and we were 25-8" Garcia's Coach John Smith said. "And I expect bigger and better things next year, so I think coach Romar did a great job recruiting him. It's a great steal for them because I was starting to get calls from Memphis, Kentucky, Nebraska. San Diego State did a hell of a job of getting in there early and trying to recruit him. But I guess he just felt really comfortable with coach Romar when he went on his unofficial visit up there."

Dewanye Morris jr. currently plays professionally in Germany and is the older brother of Darius. Dewanye has helped to shape his younger brother into a tough persevering player and can be credited for his passionate pursuit of the game. As a child Darius always followed and learned from his older brother. "I would always tag along and always played with the old guys. Read More.........

It's March, 12, 1999 in Columbus, Indiana. Fans are packed into the stands awaiting the highly anticipated match up between class 4A rivals Lawrence North and Columbus North. Except this is not your ordinary night in Indiana. Lawrence North Center John Stewart ( middle of photo) a UK signee came out in the second half of the game on fire. The 7'0 Stewart scored his teams first 10 points of the half. Stewart later asked to be taken out of the game saying that he wasn't breathing right. Shortly after coming out of the game Stewart fell back in his seat. Paramedics swooped in, rushing a flatlining Stewart to Columbus Regional Hospital. After numerous attempts to revive the young man, he was pronounced dead at 9:30 p.m.

"John was the neatest young man I've ever coached," Lawrence North Head Coach Keefer said. "This is probably the low point of my life."

Coach Jack Keefer has been coaching the Lawrence North Wildcats in Indianapolis, IN since 1975. Through highs and lows, Coach Keefer has always put a competitive team on the hardwood, including 2 State Titles.

The Wildcats produced one of the top prospects of the 1990 class, Eric Montross. Montross was a McDonald's All American and went on to play at UNC and won a national title in 1993 against Michigan. In 1994 Montross was selected with the ninth overall pick by the Boston Celtics. Until 2005 Montross was probably the most accomplished player to graduate from Lawrence North.

Keefer also coached the 2005 McDonald'sgame, that was held in South Bend (IN) at Notre Dame. Keefer was truly smitten by the nomination.

"It's a great chance to meet and teach the best high school players in the country and share their passion for basketball."

The Wildcats produced one of the most hyped duo's of all time in 2006, in Greg Oden and Mike Conley Jr. Both Oden and Conley Jr. were huge stars at Ohio St. their freshman season, leading the team to its first appearance in the title game since since 1962.

Fast forward 2 years and another duo has been thrust onto the national stage. A pair of 2010 prospects are drawing scouts and coaches from across the country. Dominique Ferguson is a 6'9 , 195 pound, power forward. Personally, I have not seen the kid play, but by all indicators he is among the elite players in his class. I would be shocked if Ferguson does not remain a 5-star player. As you may or may not know, Ferguson has verbally committed to UK, spurning heavy interest from Florida, IU, Illinois, Purdue, Wake Forest and most notably Mr. Thad Matta's Buckeye's.

The other stud currently on the squad is 6'6, 185 pound small forward Justin Martin. This kid has played somewhat in the shadows of Ferguson, but is a very good player in his own right. By the 2010 season Martin should be tagged a solid four star player. Scouts, Inc had this to say about the kids game,

" Justin Martin looks a lot like and models his game a lot like the former Indiana Pacers great, Reggie Miller. Rail thin and a great shooter, Martin is also a very good athlete as well. He needs to work on his ball skills because he is going to need to learn to create his own shot at some point in his high school career. Martin also needs to assert himself more because for a player as talented as he is, he often seems lost in the shuffle when you watch him play. There is no denying his skill and his talent, but he needs to become mentally tougher and make sure his presence is felt when he is on the court. Strength gain is a must as well."

Martin has a long list of potential suitors. However, he lists Kentucky, Xavier and Michigan State as his favorites. Home state power IU may also be in good shape to land Martin. As Martin has liked the Hoosiers and Coach Crean for sometime, the combination may prove tough to resist if an offer materializes.

Lawrence North is a school worth keeping an eye on for Cat's fans. Some of the biggest battles over explosive top 50 talent are sure to unfold within the Indianapolis city limits. For UK, it's good to see the staff's presence in Indianapolis again, breathing new life into a ill-fated past.