2018 Eye Openers from Pitt Jam Fest

This weekends Pitt Jamfest showcased over 400 teams; many of which played on one of 16 courts at the David L Lawrence Convention center and quite naturally several players had performances that impressed. Here are a few noteworthy players  from the class of 2018/2019 we noticed from the event.

Marquis Newell | NJ Playaz 16U 2018 | 5”7 guard| Newell is an electric scorer with an assortment of offensive weapons that allow him the space to get off his jumper. He is not afraid of contact despite his stature and makes the right pass to open teammates. He had a stellar game against Jersey Force as he lead his team to an elite 8 victory.

Jalen Carey | NJ Playaz 16U 2018 | 6’3 guard | Jalen is unstoppable when he gets a head of steam to the lane. He alludes defenders with side-steps and quick changes of direction. The shooting guard has picked up a host of offes including Rutgers who was on hand to watch him play against the Middle Sex Magic where he put on an offensive clinic in a tough loss.

Cormac Ryan | Middle Sex Magic 17U 2018 | 6’5 guard | Ryan was a large part of the reason the Magic made it all the way to the championship game. He was especially impressive in the final four win against the NJ playaz where he played solid defense, and scored on a number of drives, including a baseline two hand dunk that raised eyebrows from onlookers. Ryan excels at finishing on the break and streaking to the lane. He was the lone rising junior on a team filled with rising seniors and played as well as anyone on his squad.

Tre Wood | Team Takeover Black 16U 2018 | 6’0 point guard | Wood’s speed make him a blur on the fast break. When you surround him with athletic wings and big men, he can put the ball in their hands perfectly on the break. He is also very effective in the pick and roll as he can turn the corner quickly and finish or draw and kick. He did everything within his will power to prevent his team from falling to the Middle-Sex Magic in the championship bracket but they eventually fell short despite his heroics.

Justin Moore | Team Takeover Black 16U 2019 | 6’3 shooting guard | Justin Moore is a skilled guard who impacts the game in a number of ways. His very smooth and unrattled demeanor reflects his play. He is a capable shooter but also finds other ways to score whether its running the break or getting putbacks. He is only a rising sophomore but his precocious play is drawing attention from college coaches in the region.

Jalen Smith | Team Takeover Black 16U 2018 | 6’8 Foward | Smith is a high major division 1 player in the making. The size, athleticism, and motor are all characteristic of players who excel on the next level. He blocks shots with his impeccable timing and can score with his back to the basket or facing up. On the break, he is an easy target for assists as he finishes easily above the rim. Look for him to continue having a breakout summer.

Deangelo Tull | The District Basketball Club 16U 2018 | 5’10 point guard | Tull is a floor general and runs a team very well. He is also a capable spot up shooter from deep which keeps defenders honest. He limits his turnovers by not playing at a frantic pace.  His was a key part of the District’s 16U deep run into the final four and will continue to grow as a player over the summer.