Young Magicians On The Court Turn Heads
For over two decades the Middlesex Magic AAU Program has been finding, developing and showcasing some of the best talent in Southern New England. This weekend at the Zero Gravity Sneaker Series being played at the Field House…
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Continue ReadingFor over two decades the Middlesex Magic AAU Program has been finding, developing and showcasing some of the best talent in Southern New England. This weekend at the Zero Gravity Sneaker Series being played at the Field House in Sudbury, MA there were 4 new players on display. Despite the heat outside, it was even hotter in the gym as the abilities of Akrif Semakula, Nate McNabb, Aidan Williams and Zack Jeanphippe were burning up and down the court.
Akrif Semakula-Combo Guard-Maynard High-Maynard, MA-Class of 2025
Akrif is blessed with a strong athletic frame. At first look you figure he is a power forward but then you see him move on the floor. Smooth gliding strides down the court make him very difficult to keep up with in transition. A lightening quick first step easily frees him from his defender in the half court leading a strong finish at the rim. His ability to penetrate leads to numerous free throw attempts that he converts with ease. A strong presence on the defensive end and excellent support on both the offensive and defensive glass leaves you believing that college coaches may already have their eyes on him.
Nate McNabb-PG/SG-Exeter High-Exeter, NH-Class of 2025
Two words jumped into my mind while Watching Nate, Junkyard Dog. The tenacity that he plays with on both ends of the floor makes one think of Marcus Smart with the Celtics. Nate has two speeds, stop and go, but he goes all the time. Diving on the floor for loose balls, crashing the offensive glass and a nose for the ball that constantly creates turnovers are just a few of the traits he had on display. Although left handed you can only tell when he pulls up for a shot because his ball handling is strong with both hands. He has great ability to get in the lane and finish with touch. You watch this hardworking young man and it makes you remember why basketball is great. He is a definite difference maker for any team. Nate would seem to be a great fit at a NESCAC school down the line. I will be heading north this upcoming season to see more of this Player.
Aidan Williams-PF-Needham High-Needham, MA-Class of 2025
The foundation of any good basketball team is a strong presence in the post. May I submit for your approval Aidan Williams from Needham, MA. Although only in the 9th grade he already stands 6’4” with a strong muscular frame that lets you know he works just as hard off the court as he does on it. Controlling the glass by using his strength to clear space under the hoop is a trademark of his game. Don’t sleep on his offensive game. He has great footwork, soft hands and a killer up-fake that leaves defenders stymied. The last thing you want to do is put Aidan on the line. His smooth form, high arc and excellent ball spin lead to swish after swish from the stripe.
Zack Jeanphippe-PG-Waltham High-Waltham, MA-Class of 2025
Zack runs the point like you would expect any point guard should, with little to no mistakes and running the team like a quarterback. His confidence with the ball and ability handle keep turnovers to little to none. Don’t give him any room from behind the arc because you will be sorry. An accurate shot and very deep range make him tough to defend. Don’t get to close to him because then he flashes his quickness and is gone either creating an open shot for himself or another teammate. His calm demeanor keeps his team focused in pressure situations.
This is just yet another powerhouse crop of young talent flowing the Middlesex Magic program. If you get the chance to watch any of their teams you will not be disappointed. I’ve played against them during my career a