Nature Coast Summer Shootout Standouts: Part 1
On Thursday, the two day Nature Coast Summer Shootout wrapped up. Games were played at Nature Coast High, Fox Chapel Middle and Powell Middle.
Lake Minneola captured the title in a 53-38 win over East Bay to cap off the tournament.
Here is the first part of the top standouts I saw in the shootout.
Jose Romero (East Bay)
Overall, it was a slow first half for the Indians but Romero settled down in the opening game. The 2020 guard made some clutch 3’s when covered closely and found his way inside for buckets. He hit a pair of 3’s from the white volleyball line. The 6’0″ guard got better as the day went on especially when his feet were set. Romero was hands down the most potent scorer in the tournament.
Trent Raymond (Oasis)
Part of a deep and communicative Oasis group, Trent Raymond was a major piece in earning a semifinal appearance in this tournament. The 6’3″ 2019 guard/forward is a leader by example. Raymond is an attacker by nature but he can do plenty from the mid-range. He’s a good 3-point shooter when called upon.
Mikey Shane (Countryside)
When you look at Countryside, you see a whole different unit. However, this is still a tenacious group that plays tough on both ends and loves to shoot from outside. 2021 guard Mikey Shane continues to develop his leadership role as the point man. Alongside Pinellas Park transfer, 2019 forward Jared McGarrity and 2020 guard Max Thorpe, the trio will be called upon to carry the way. Shane has an ability to shoot a high percentage from outside. He loves to drive and create openings.
Wesley Wilson (Hernando)
Hernando doesn’t have a deep roster right now, but 2019 guard Wesley Wilson is poised for yet another steady campaign. The rising senior stands at 6’3″ and does all the little things right as a No. 1 option. Wilson is an old school blue collar player who is an aggressive attacker. He helps on the boards on both ends and loves the mid-range spot.
Sincere Torain (Springstead)
At 5’10”, Sincere Torain isn’t out there to intimidate anyone. But his foot speed and ability to create and distribute will go a long way for Springstead this season. The 2019 guard sets the tone for his side with hustle plays, court awareness, slashing drives and his overall passion.
Lorenzo Ford (Jefferson)
A 2019 forward, Lorenzo Ford is part of a seldom few for Jefferson as a core upperclassman. The 6’3″ wing is physically fit with broad shoulders. He’s a good passer and shooter in transition and a true team player. Ford won’t wow you with his athleticism, but his solid play is key for the Dragons.
Johnny Barney (Lake Minneola)
Filled with energy and team leadership, 2019 guard Johnny Barney simply has fun on the court. At 5’9″, he’s naturally built and that helps his defensive ability. A superb 3-point shooter, he has good form on his jumpers. Barney is a pest on defense and he doesn’t back down from his opponents.
Caleb Davis (East Bay)
Alongside Romero, 2020 guard Caleb Davis simply tore it up all afternoon long. He nailed 3’s over and over again and made defenses pay when given even the slightest room to shoot. The 6’3″ guard crashes the boards often, creates his own looks, has a soft touch on his shots and plays with a consistent energy.