Grassroots First Person: Kessel Heat
In our “First Person Grassroots Recap” series we take a look at how the travel team
season went for one our state’s programs.
Today we look at the Kessel Heat with Brian Burns.
17U
Record:
30-14
Championships/Accomplishments:
-Best Buy Classic Champions
-Kessel Shoot Out Champions
-Elite 8 NY2LA Association Final Pool Play
Key Wins:
-DTA in Championship of Best Buy Classic
-Illinois Stars
-Quad City Elite
Overall Thoughts on Season:
There were a couple tough overtime losses against some very strong teams that still
sting, but overall this spring & summer was a success. We went into this year
looking for competition and exposure and that is exactly what we received being
involved with the NY2LA Association. Our core group of players from last year was
enhanced with the addition of Bryce Hatten & Matt Szuba. Everyone on this team
had the opportunity to showcase their skills and help make this team successful.
Whether it was a strong shooting performance, taking numerous charges, winning the
rebounding war, getting to the rim, blocking shots or strong defense this team
would do what was necessary to be put in a position of success. They are a
cohesive unit on and off the court. It will be fantastic to follow them during their
senior seasons and into college.
Three Standout Performers
Martell Irvin: Martell was continually tasked with guarding opposing team’s best players
full court because of the speed and pressure he can provide. While limiting opposing team’s
top performers, Martell’s offensive success comes from breaking down defense,
getting to the rim to score, and creating opportunities for teammates. He is a threat on
both ends of the floor and a sedulous player.
Matt Szuba: Matt is the type of player you love to have on your team, but hate to play against.
His size and strength is a mismatch for smaller defenders, and he was one of the
top shooters on the team creating a challenging assignment for “Bigs” guarding him.
He plays with a “chip” on his shoulders, and along with his physical attributes is a
very unselfish player.
16U
Record:
38-11
Accomplishments:
6-2 At NY2LA Association
Final 4 at NY2LA Invitational
Elite 8 at NY2LA Summer Jam
Final Four at NY2LA Final Chapter
Key wins:
Mac Irvin, SYF, Wisconsin Swing, George HIll Rising stars, Howard Pulley, M33M,
Pocket City, Quad City elite, Young Legends, Yanders Law, Reach Legends.
Key Players
Quinlan Bennett 6’2 Combo guard. Dynamic in transition. Tremendous defender.
Improved perimeter jump shooter.
Ahmad Muhammad 6’0 Point Guard. Had big scoring games against Swing, Mac Irvin,
and Yanders Law. Create offense for others. Tremendous defender.
Ryan Kutsor 6’4 Wing- Elite shooter. Improved Athletically. Big Games against
Playground Warriors and Howard Pulley.
Overall Thoughts:
Established themselves as one of the best teams in the state at 16u. Tremendous wins
over sponsored teams in and out of state. Team shared the ball and played for each other.
Branden Ellis and Brandon Simberg were elite shooters. Jordan Morris and
Brendan Marton were able to use their athleticism to be huge contributors.