Hard Work Region Preview: Indy EBC
We may be on the tail end of high school basketball season but it’s not too early to look ahead to what’s coming up on the AAU circuit. Over the next few months we will be taking a look at the teams that will be participating in the Prep Hoops Circuit Hard Work Region and here’s a look at Indiana based Indy EBC.
Indy EBC will compete in the 17U age division of the Hard Work Region and will be at the Havoc in the Heartland, Show Me Showdown and the Hard Work Region Finals.
I recently caught up with Indy EBC Director Mel Butler to learn more about the program and what to expect from the team this season:
Why did you start your program? How long have you been around?
Indy EBC was started to help young males specifically those considered “At Risk” to develop the skills required to compete successfully for their high schools and prepare them “academically and athletically” for the opportunity to play in college at the level their talent will allow them. We started our program in 2006.
What is the goal of your program for 2019?
To maintain our expected standard of past successes. To have both of our teams, play at a high level against the highest level of competition possible. Previous teams have set the standard having both the academic and athletic skill set to play at the collegiate level. We have sent 62 players to the next level (D1, D2, NAIA, D3 & JUCO) on scholarships. More importantly our initial teams Class of 2013 & 2014 have resulted in 24 alumni receiving their degrees.
What is your program’s mission each year?
Our mission is to help our players understand the purpose of their lives beyond athletics, and to expose them to opportunities to serve their school and local communities with increased passion. An equally important goal of the club is to develop character, teamwork, and sportsmanship in an enjoyable basketball environment. Our organization believes that we present an important opportunity for young men to not only experience great competition, but to also grow personally. Our program is committed to a “higher purpose” beyond athletics – seeking to impact the hearts and lives of young men.
Do you know of any players that will be back in your program this year? Who should we have our eye on?
17U Roster
Israel Barnett CG Lighthouse CPA South
Micah Moore PG Warren Central
Jaden Swiderek CG Seton Catholic
Rodney Ivy PG Lighthouse CPA South
Elijah Hamilton G/F Lighthouse CPA East
Isaiah Hamilton G/F Lighthouse CPA East
Kennedy White F Lighthouse CPA South
Tim Freeman F Warren Central
Jerry Hendrix F/C Kokomo
Keith Chambers F/C Warren Central
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16U Roster
Elijah Linden G Decatur Central
Jacoreyon Sivils G TC Howe
Jalen Davis F Cristal House
Jorden Murphy F TC Howe
Daylyn Canady F Lighthouse CPA South
Jalen Tyler F/C TC Howe
Lawrence Boyd III G Purdue Poly
Jonah Falcone G Seton Catholic
Anjay Ganaishlal G/F Purdue Poly
Noah Gathings F Cathedral
Kaleu Tells C International
Michele Barrantes G/F International
Why did you choose the Prep Hoops Circuit?
We have played in various circuits over the last four years. With the implementation of the new NCAA rules we felt that finding the right circuit to meet our competition, travel and exposure requirements was paramount for program success. The Prep Hoops circuit meets those needs with the regional schedule and their exposure network.