Double Pump Summer Tip Off: Francisco’s Finest
ANAHEIM, Ca.-– After a two-mile jaunt down Anaheim Blvd., due to absurd parking conditions, it was now time to endure the steamy furnace–that being the American Sports Center.
The Double Pump Summer Tip Off Tournament hosted by David and Dana Pump, corralled teams from all over the Western United States with a bevy of players that could be categorized into a variety of levels in terms of college potential.
Francisco’s Lucky Seven (listed alphabetically)
Sedrick Altman (Colony/IEBP All Stars)
Joel’s take: Arguably the best defender I saw at this event. The 6-foot-2 junior has great strength, long arms, and exceptional lateral quickness. Offensively, his 1st step is cat-like quick and he can finish in the paint with either hand. An improved jump shot will be the key heading forward.
Kessler Edwards (Etiwanda/Prodigy Elite)
Joel’s take: Edwards has continued to grow not only physically but his game has made nice strides as well. The always-under-control Edwards plays on balance and has a high basketball IQ. The 6-foot-7ish forward can step out and drain deep jumpers and has shown an improved ability to get into the lane off the bounce utilizing the up-fake.
Max Guinn (Francis Parker/Gamepoint Pump N Run 16U)
Joel’s take: Guinn is yet another prolific shooter from the San Diego County. The 6-foot-5 Guinn gets great lift on his shot, has an impeccable release, and is always on balance. He is equally effective off the catch as he is in a pull-up situation with his shot and he’s an astute passer as well.
Ryan Langborg (La Jolla Country Day/Gamepoint Pump N Run 16U)
Joel’s take: Langborg possesses a nice all-around offensive game. He has a Division 1 level jump shot, an improved off-the-dribble-game, and he plays hard. Who he can guard at the next level, will be the key.
Avery Martinez (Cantwell Sacred Heart/Southern California All Stars)
Joel’s take: “Basketball Player” is what first comes to mind when describing the 6-foot-5ish Martinez. The 2018 prospect impacts the game with his ball-hawking defense, timely shooting, and overall assertiveness.
The best way to describe Martinez is “basketball player”
Marquise Nelloms (LB St. Anthony/Houdini’s All Stars)
Joel’s take: Nelloms is part of an impressive group of juniors in 6-foot Joshua Belvin and 6-foot-5 Frank Staine for Allen Caveness’ ascending St. Anthony program in Long Beach. The 6-foot-5 Nelloms impacts the game with his length and motor. He attacks the glass with a vengeance and has a nose for the ball.
Kelvin Wright Jr. (Rancho Cucamonga/Prodigy Elite)
Joel’s take: In this era of position-less basketball, Wright Jr. has a game that is molded perfectly for that format. Tenacious motor, bouncy athlete, and strong finisher describe this future college player. The skills are on the come, but he feels like a Division II nightmare for opposing coaches.