Memphis, TN.
The EYBL kicked off its 2024 season in Memphis and Texas quartet of JL3, Drive Nation, ProSkills and Houston Hoops left Day 1 with a collective record of 3-1.
6’6 G Jermaine O’Neal Jr (Drive Nation)– Finished with a team high 21 points for Drive Nation in their win. His game has grown tremendously, looks so much more comfortable on the perimeter and has stepped up his assertiveness offensively. Also impacts the game defensively with his ability to guard multiple positions.
6’2 Jacobe Coleman (Drive Nation)– One of the more dynamic guards on the circuit. Played a very good all around game, thrived in transition, & got plenty of paint touches. He’s so good at getting by the initial defender to make a play. Finished with 12 points, 4 boards and 2 assists.
6’10 Jaden Toombs (Drive Nation)– Big fella controlled the paint & was an animal on the glass, leading the team with 14 rebounds. Starting to lean out and has improved his conditioning. His interior defense was phenomenal.
6’8 Sebastian Williams-Adams (JL3)– Impressed many with his timing and athleticism defensively. His versatility will always be his calling card, played the 1-5 in Game one, and put his stamp on it. Finished with a 14 point, 12 rebound double double. Also had FIVE blocks, & four assists.
6’6 Hudson Greer (JL3)– Started the game slowly, but was Johnny on the spot when they needed him. Hit two big dagger shots in the 4th quarter to help seal the win. Didn’t force anything and let the game come to him, is always looking to make the right basketball play. Lead the team in scoring with 18 points and grabbed 6 rebounds.
6’6 Shelton Henderson (JL3)– Had one of the best all around performances of the day. Very efficient 7-10 from the field, was on the offensive glass and was aggressive getting to his spots. When he plays this way there aren’t many players that can stop him. 15 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals.
6’1 Christian Jones (JL3)– Showed his stroke from 3 going 4-6. Very good for this team as he puts pressure on defenses with his range and ability to get by and create for his teammates. Had a very good calm, cool, & collected game. Finished with 13 points & 6 rebounds.
6’3 JJ Laboy (JL3)– His numbers won’t jump out at you on the stat sheet, but he came in the game and turned the energy around with his defensive. Helped his team crawl out of a hole and take the lead in the 2nd quarter. Arguably the best perimeter defender in Texas.
6’5 Dorian Hayes (Houston Hoops)– When he plays assertive offensively, he shows he really is a 3 level scorer. Kept his team in the game with his hustle and shot making. Played very hard in a tough close game. Scored 11 points and 5 rebounds in 21 minutes.
6’6 Howie Keene (Houston Hoops)– Helped erase a 4th quarter deficit in the last 2 minutes as he caught fire from 3. A big guard who helps space the floor, lead his team with 13 points, going 4-7 from 3.
6’7 Isaiah Sealy (ProSkills)– The Arkansas native impressed me yesterday with his shot making ability. Very intriguing prospect with his size and length to go along with his ability to score. And with his length if he locks in defensively, it will take him to another stratosphere.
6’7 Amari Reed (ProSkills)– One thing about “Slim” is that you never have to question his motor or toughness. Always is aggressive on the glass and defensively. Can guard multiple defenders and his impact on the game isn’t always found on the stat sheet.