Garrett Tucker's HoopSeen USSSA Nationals Friday Notebook
The HoopSeen USSSA Nationals were back in action Friday, as teams from all across the country entered the doors of Suwanee Sports Academy to position themselves for the coveted spots in bracket play. A number of storylines emerged.
Here's what happened in Garrett Tucker's eyes...
IBRAHIM DODO PACES TEAM PHOENIX IN 16U DIVISION
Team Phoenix out of North Carolina has cemented themselves as contenders for the championship crown in the 16U division. Ibrahim Dodo, a 6-foot-7 power forward, has been a rim bender during the early stages of the event. The athletic big man plays above the rim and punishes any defenders in his way. He plays with a high motor and causes havoc on both ends of the floor. In a morning victory, Dodo led the Phoenix with 20 points. Joel Jenkins added 16 points in the victory, too.
PERRY SHOWS NEXT LEVEL POTENTIAL
He isn't the most popular guy in Georgia, but 2017 Covington (GA) Eastside wing Keiondre Perry (pictured above) played with a purpose Friday. What purpose? Get buckets. The 6-foot-4 wing is wired to score the basketball. He did most of his damage at the rim and in transition, but Perry showed he is capable of scoring from the perimeter, too. He led the Atlanta Warriors with 24 points in an afternoon win. While he isn't receiving a plethora of recruiting interest, he did mention Middle Tennessee State, Tennessee Tech, and Albany as schools that have contacted him. He is a sleeper prospect for low-major programs to know heading into the July evaluation period.
BRINTON WRIGHT HAS NEXT IN GEORGIA
Keep an eye on the name Brinton Wright. The rising 8th grader is still a few years from being recruited, but it's safe to say he will be highly coveted when he enters high school. Already standing 6-foot-5, Wright has a world of potential. He's very fluid with his game and dominates the game on both ends of the floor. He is a mismatch problem with his ability to put the ball on the floor and get by bigger defenders. He overpowers everyone in the paint and finishes effortlessly at the rim. Remember the name in the coming years.
OTHER STANDOUTS
- Janhri Luckey exploded for 25 points, as he helped put the Carolina Heat past EOTO.
- Brock Jancek scored 17 points in a win for the Tampa Bayhawks. The 2018 big man has had a solid two days to open USSSA Nationals.
- The Atlanta Celtics 14U group is loaded. Remember the names Brandon Boston, Justin Powell, and Down Odom.