Francisco’s Finest: Trevor Ariza Tip Off Classic (Glue-Types)
Francisco’s Finest: Trevor Ariza Tip Off Classic (Glue-Types) PLAYA DEL REY, CA—I’ve been to a number of Trevor Ariza Tip Off Classics, but this year’s version of it was the deepest in many years. The semi-finals were scintillating as Heritage…
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Continue ReadingFrancisco’s Finest: Trevor Ariza Tip Off Classic (Glue-Types)
PLAYA DEL REY, CA—I’ve been to a number of Trevor Ariza Tip Off Classics, but this year’s version of it was the deepest in many years. The semi-finals were scintillating as Heritage Christian defeated Etiwanda in overtime while St. Bernard survived the backyard tilt against neighboring Westchester. At the end of the day or Saturday night for that matter, Nick Bowden would hoist the MVP trophy as he lead St. Bernard against upstart Heritage Christian.
Damion McDowell (St. Bernard)
2021, PF, 6-foot-5, 185 pounds
Joel’s Take: While his teammates Reece Dixon-Waters and Nick Bowden take care of the scoring, McDowell is the catalyst to many of their victories due to his motor and intangibles. He is a terrific rebounder in and out of his area, gets numerous tip-ins and putbacks, and he sprints the floor for finishes. He can knock in an occasional 3-point shot, but his mechanics need to tighten up.
Marland Harris (Westchester)
2020, C, 6-foot-8, 200 pounds
Joel’s Take: One of the better rim runners I’ve seen this fall. The Comets suffocate their opponents with their devestating pressure and Harris is there to protect the rim due to his nimble feet, length, and bounce. He sprints the floor for strong finishes and his motor never runs low. He needs to improve his scoring skills in the post, but he’s productive.
Mathew Mayes (Westchester)
2020, PF, 6-foot-5, 170 pounds
Mayes is a high-motor wing-type with developing skillsJoel’s Take: Mayes is a transfer from neighborhood rival St. Bernard and he has made an immediate impact due to his assertiveness at both ends. He is an electrifying athlete who sprints the floor in transition and can finish well over the rim. His wiry frame and excellent lateral quickness make him a multi-positonal defender that fits in well with what the Comets want to do defensively. His skill levels is still quite raw, but he does have solid ball skills.
Ethan Berks (Santa Monica)
2020, C, 6-foot-7, 200 pounds
Joel’s Take: While Quincy McGriff is the main cog offensively for the Vikings, Berks does all the dirty work. He has a strong frame, excellent bounce, and solid feet. He plays with a hot motor that translates into fastbreak points, tip ins, and defensive deflections. He has a nose for the ball, good hands, and as a result his rebounding is well noted.
Marcel Hayes (Long Beach Poly)
2022, PF, 6-foot-4, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: Hayes may be the best undersized rebounder in So-Cal area. He is a beast in the paint area and a tremendous athlete. He is a quick jumper with good hands and he has a nose for the ball. The combination of his instincts and athleticism are awe-inspiring. His skill set is still quite raw and he needs to improve his shooting touch, but he is a warrior.