#ATLJAM Top 16U Performers Part II
We continue our look at the top performers from the 2017 HoopSeen Atlanta Jam and today we dive into the 16 and under division of the event. There were a number of talented young players in the field and we explore the top dogs of the group.
Andy Antoine, NSB Game Speed Elite, PF, 2019: Andy Antoine brought the fly swatter to NSB Game Speed Elite’s championship game against Memphis Prep. The 6-foot-6 forward swatted away six shots, all in the first half, altering how Memphis Prep chose to attack Game Speed’s front line. In their 16U Black Championship 59-51 victory, Antoine also added seven points and 10 rebounds. While he can stand to polish his back to the basket game, Antoine is already a plus shot blocker and good area rebounder. – Kyle Sandy
Malik Dixon, NSB Game Speed Elite, SG, 2019: NSB Game Speed Elite had a handful of good guards, one being Malik Dixon. At 6-foot-3, the Lake Highland Prep guard was in attack mode. Dixon used his strong frame to go downhill and score in traffic. He put up 19 points and six rebounds in the championship game and took advantage of Memphis Prep’s smaller defenders. – Kyle Sandy
Jamin Graham, Pro Select White, SF, 2019: A 6-foot-6, 215-pound football player from Etowah High School in Alabama, Jamin Graham was a physical presence underneath the basket. He had some of the best post moves all tournament. Graham was comfortable with his back to the basket and made quick spins baseline while also displaying confidence in baby hooks in the lane. Graham turned and faced on occasion and used a sweep through move to attack the basket. Gifted with a big frame, Graham is a must-watch for any old school post player. – Kyle Sandy
RELATED: Atlanta Jam Super Six | Top 17U Performers Part II | Top 17U Performers Part III | Top 16U Performers Part I
Joseph Jones, AC Georgia, PG, 2019: At just 5-foot-8, Joseph Jones of AC Georgia was a bundle of energy this week. Jones was a pest in the backcourt for opposing ball handlers and a blur in the open court for defenders. The Northview Titan has springs too. He picked up four blocks in a single game and rebounded exceptionally well for a guard his size. Jones is an example of how hustle can bring your game to the next level. – Kyle Sandy
JaRon Thames, Team Power, SG, 2019: South Gwinnett has a scoring ace up their sleeve in 6-foot-4 JaRon Thames. The Devin Vassell clone poured in 27 points and seven rebounds in an opening night win for Team Power. Thames has a smooth demeanor to his game and always looks in control. Slashing is one of Thames’ strongest attributes, but he also has a quick trigger from deep that can burn defenders. His length provides the potential to be an above average perimeter defender when he wants to be. – Kyle Sandy
Gertautas Urbonavicius, Wade Elite, PF, 2019: With a college-ready body already in tow, the member of the U16 Lithuanian National Team was one of the more intriguing prospects at Atlanta Jam. Playing with Wade Elite at 6-foot-7, the European influence in Urbonavicius is easy to see. High IQ, good vision and a soft touch molds a mature skillset. He can pop mid-range and three-pointers with ease. One area of improvement will be his off the bounce game and overall quickness. Only heading into his junior season at Cardinal Gibbons High School in Fort Lauderdale, all the intangibles are already there for Urbonavicius to become a popular name on the recruiting front. – Kyle Sandy