With the end of the live viewing period for Summer 2019 fast approaching many teams kicked it up a notch on the second day of The LBI Atlanta Live showcase in Lilburn, Georgia. While their were no champions crowned in the showcase format event there were a few players and teams that put on impressive performances in front of more than 50 college programs in attendance.
The Carolina Flames 17U EYBL-Morris squad ruled the roost in suburban Atlanta on Sunday. Coach Arne Morris’ squad prevailed, 48-41, over a game SC 76ers Black squad in one of the days marquee matchups. The game was everything advertised with enough highlight reel plays, trash talking and posturing to keep both teams fan bases on the edge of their seats. The South Carolina squad started off strong with some sterling production from Ashlyn Watkins (6’2 SF/2022) on the interior and backcourt mates Milaysia Fulwiley (5’8 CG/2023) and Tyliah Burns (5’8 PG/2020). The Flames managed to keep things close behind some inspired early play from Teonni Key (6’3 SG/2021) and Anya Poole (6’2 C/2020). The 76ers carried a 25-20 lead into intermission but the Flames seized control midway through the second stanza, knotting the score at 35 all with 8:00 remaining. The Flames utilized a 7-0 run midway through the second half behind the guard play of Indya Nivar (5’8 PG/2022) and Saniya Rivers (6’0 SG/2021). Coupled with yeoman's work on the boards by Imani Lester (6’3 C/2022) the Flames built a lead that they would not relinquish down the stretch. Both rosters are chock full of Division 1 talent and although the two teams have squared off before the showdown at LBI Atlanta Live had all the drama of a heavyweight prize fight.
Not to be outdone a few other squads rang up noteworthy performances at LBI Atlanta Live:
ARKANSAS DAZZLERS 2022/15U- This group was well coached and plays the game fast and intense. It was hard to determine whether they were more dangerous in transition or bombing away from the perimeter but all the pieces are in place for this unit to garner more than their share of attention over the next two seasons. Ava Knoedl (5’7 CG/2022) is a whippet and the ringleader out front with the ball...a virtual wizard with the ball especially in transition...She insures that the team plays fast at all times and has a nice perimeter stroke to boot, Jaiden Thomas (5’9 SG/2022) is a ball hawking two guard who plays hard on both ends for the Dazzlers...An extremely athletic wing who displayed a high basketball IQ and feel for the game...Solid all around offensively but it is her defensive prowess that sets her apart from the crowd. Has the intangibles and skill set to emerge as a standout at the next level. Hayleigh Wyrick (5’8 SG/2022) is a lethal outside shooter who is frighteningly fast with a ball in her hand...she is an offensive threat at all times on the floor...High motor athlete with next level impact potential for sure.
PHOENIX ELITE- another deep, talented squad coached by former NBA standout Delaney Rudd. This Phoenix squad can hurt you in a variety of ways - they have size, speed and defend with passion. Breya Busby (5’4 PG/2021) has always been lightning quick with the ball but now she is an even bigger threat as her game has matured. Her ability to deliver the right pass at the right time is a skill that many major programs covet...Her hands and feet are so quick she is a game-changer on defense...her intensity on the floor is flat out infectious. Dane Bertolina (5’9 SG/2020) is among the most efficient ball players in the region...not a lot of wasted motion on either end of the floor- always in the right place whether it be-help defender, weakside rebounding, running the floor in transition… lethal perimeter shooter with the ability to create her own shot off the bounce...hard to find someone who is going to outwork her. Shakira Baskerville (6’1 SG/2021) give the Phoenix Elite a versatile player who brings an added dimension to the floor...a long , wiry wing who can slide down to the post if needed...Strong face up game with range and consistency out to 18-20 feet.
XBA-RED- this California based squad represented the left coast well at LBI Atlanta Live. They were in full out attack mode on both ends of the court and made an impression on all of those who were fortunate enough to catch them in action. Nia Coleman(5’8 PG/2023) is the ring leader out front who does a masterful job of pushing the pace while rarely turning the ball over...Has a little “hot sauce” to her game and is able to get to the basket seemingly at will. Ariana Webb (5’9 SG/2022) is another XBA guard who loves to attack the rim…Tenacious on-ball defender with an explosive first step on the offensive end..if she can develop a mid-range jumper her stock should soar over the next two seasons...Nia Anderson (5’7 PG/2023) is a jet quick combo guard with a consistent touch from the perimeter...very offensive minded...solid basketball instincts on both ends of the court...displayed maturity in her decision making especially for a player of her age.
