Thanksgiving Middle School Classic write-up cont'd 11/30/2009

College Bound


Every so often, we highlight certain players in where their play would be recognized by a college scout. College bound is not based on scoring the most points or showing the most flash, but is based on how the player played his/her position and the impact that player had on the game. At the Middle School Thanksgiving classic, four players caught our eye to be recognized as “College Bound”

Jayshawn Brooks 6’1 SF/PF 7th grade North Augusta Middle School

Jayshawn is a “freakish” type of athlete. Has excellent defensive skills in where he moves his feet very well and knows how to time his blocks. Can defend positions 1-5. Plays the top and middle of the press very well, ball deflections and interceptions. Has an inside-outside type of game. The best low-post player at the classic and is capable of grabbing defensive rebounds and taking it coast-to-coast for rim-touching finger rolls. Seems like he does not get tired, is always on his motor. Has decent stroke from 15 ft.



Earl Cobb 5’9 PG 8th grade Morgan Rd Middle School

Earl, who is regarded by many as the #1 football prospect in the CSRA (led his team to the middle school title game and won) is not far behind on the court as well. Reminds me of Rodney Stuckey. Uses his size and strength to be a defensive pest on the court. Not flashy but has excellent ball-security skills. Knows when to penetrate and does an excellent job of drawing the defense and making cross court streamed-line passes to open teammates. Shows leadership on the court, hustles for every loose ball. Didn’t show his jumper but he didn’t have to. Makes good decision on fast breaks.

Juwan Tolbert 5’9 SG/PG 8th grade Langford Middle School

Juwan is the type of player that you do not have to design a play for and he still will be effective. The most fundamentally sound player at the classic. Always is in a basketball position on offense and defense. Rebounds the ball very well for a guard and pushes the ball up the court and makes the right decision (didn’t register a turnover). His strength allows him to score in traffic and he can shoot the deep 3pt shot. Seems like he is always under control.




Aaron Williamson 5’10 SF/SG 8th grade Glenn Hills Middle School

Every time I see Aaron play, I leave very impressed with his game. He plays like he has a chip on his shoulder. Tied with Jayshawn as the best finisher/attacker that I have seen in middle school so far. Runs the floor very well, knows how to run his lane. Great offensive rebounder. Showed his jump-shot that had nice trajectory and a decent back spin. The type of player that you just tell “go play” Has great defensive instincts as well. Nice elevation on all his layups, could possibly dunk on fastbreaks if he really tried.