AAU Preview: Deep III
The start of grassroots basketball season is right around the corner so it’s time to to look ahead to what’s coming up on the AAU circuit. We have reached out to all of the top AAU programs in the state…
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Continue ReadingThe start of grassroots basketball season is right around the corner so it’s time to to look ahead to what’s coming up on the AAU circuit. We have reached out to all of the top AAU programs in the state to get a preview and today we look at Deep III.
Deep III is coming off a big 2018 campaign and is looking for continued success in 2019. Here’s a transcript of a conversation we had with program director P.J. Gilbert.
Why did you start your program? How long have you been around?
Deep III basketball was originally started up in 2008 and the program had an active 17U team from 2008-2011. In 2013, coach PJ Gilbert was offered to join a brand new start up program Rip City Basketball Academy (RCBA) which was initially intended to be the Portland “sister program” of then very successful Seattle program Emerald City Basketball Academy. RCBA was directed by Phil Barnhart & Oregon basketball legend Anthony Taylor. Financial pieces didn’t align after one year and this opened up the relaunch of Deep III in 2014, which was highlighted by an overall record of 23-4 and winning the prestigious Rose City Showcase. 2018 was highlighted by defeating Adidas sponsored gauntlet contender Team Bradley NW Panthers who were lead by 5* D1 commit(s) PJ Fuller & Marjon Beauchamp among other Seattle 3&4* recruits. 2018 III was capped off by a phenomenal run into the semifinals of the platinum division at the Las Vegas Classic.
What is the goal of your program for 2019?
The goal for Deep III this spring/summer is always continued development, constantly raising our IQ & understanding of the game on both ends, getting our players exposure through hard work & playing the game the way it is meant to be played.
What is your program’s mission every year?
Our mission is to be recognized as the top 17U program in the state AGAIN this year. 2018 resume vs in state competition: (2-1 Hoop Salem, 3-2 Team Fly, 5-0 OBC, 1-0 Nike team NW, 2-0 Team Jones, 2-0 The Program)
We would like to in the future tap into all HS age groups 15-17U, but as of now we are viewed exclusively as a 17U program… we hope to change that & increase appeal for all ages to come out next spring.
Do you know of any players that will be back in your program this year? Who should we have our eye on?
Returners: Cam Feik, Anthony Mosley, & Lukas Findley. We have 3 17U teams this year & eyes need to be on all 3 with very solid pieces to compliment each team.
What are the main tournaments you will be playing in this year?
2019 we will be competing in all the top Hoop circuit NW events. Our goal is to fundraise this spring & try to make it to L.A. & Vegas in July.