USJN's ELITE OKTOBERFEST

By James Parker

On-The-Trail

To play or not to play, that is the question. The fall can be a tricky period for evaluators, players and coaches. Great players are well into their fall conditioning, strength training, haven’t played a lot of basketball with or even without their club team in over 60 days. Team chemistry is sometimes affected by the different personnel on the teams. Club practice time can be limited because of these new additions, high school open gyms getting started and club tryouts. Some players are almost on a complete break from the sport because of playing other sports or just getting the R&R before high school season gets on the way. Some seniors play, some do not. But, given the evaluation period in the fall, where there are tournaments coaches and scouts will scour, players will come to play to impress. Even though one might not see the kids at their peak performance, many things can still be taken away from the fall events, like a kid’s maturity, leadership, toughness, work-ethic and some new skills developing. So, to play or not to play, is still the question.
This years USJN Oktoberfest took place at the American Sports Center Anaheim, CA. Oct.7-9.

All Tournament Selection


Dominique Williams 5’8” PG (AZ2013)~ Though Dom can struggle at times putting the ball in the basket, create for herself or teammates, no other point guard ran their team more flawless. Starting in transition no PG in the American Sports Center got the ball on the move and into the front court off the pass faster and better than the Warrior guard. Dominique’s unselfish play is the catalyst to the unselfish play and passing game of the Warriors whether in transition or ball reversals. Anyone who has had the pleasure of watching the Warriors knows and understands how that unselfish play and passing game is the heart and soul of the team. Her physical defense and ball pressure is second to none and like her ball movement in the AZ Warriors offense, her defense is the precept to the Warrior defense.


Ariel Bostick 5’3” PG (AZ2013)~ Like a magician Bostick, the bay area kid, always seems to have a bag of tricks. She always keeps defenders back on their heels with her ball skills. She can pull from well beyond the arc. Defend her too close and she will get in the paint where she is deadliest. She sees the smallest of openings in passing lanes and delivers passes off the dribble seamlessly. This weekend I saw Ariel take the ball off the dribble and deliver on target a one handed pass through three defenders to a cutting teammate across court from just beyond half court, jaw-dropping.


Courtney Ekmark 6’ SG (AZ2014)~ Can be as consistent a shooter as they come. One is always waiting for the game where the shots are just not going to fall for her, but she displays continually that teams can’t leave her side. She is deadly from outside and you have been warned, hand down/man down!


Karlie Samuelson 6’ SG (CA2013)~ A point guard’s best friend. If Joe Montana is your point guard, Karlie is Jerry Rice. She spreads the floor, allows for some play making and knows what to do with and without the ball. Karlie is a very coachable young lady with great demeanor. She can shoot it from outside with the best of them; put it on the floor for the take and finish. She can help bring the ball up the court, displays strong skills at the 1 and 2 positions.


Katie Samuelson 6’2 SG (CA2015)~ Like Bonnie and Karlie, Katie is of that same shooting pedigree. We all have the feeling Katie is going to be something special to watch in years to come. Having yet to play a high school game, Katie is well on her way to shooting the ball as good as her older sisters and seems to possess more fluidity and athleticism at 6’2 on the wings than her predecessors. She is a franchise player and right now programs should be preparing a spot for her.


Keitra Wallace 5’11 SF/G (CA2012)~ Was all business this weekend. A recent commit to Pepperdine, one would think she was still on the board with how hard she played. No player played with as much determination and sense of urgency as Keitra. Definitely not a finesse player Kietra was definitive when driving to the cup, plays with emotion and passion.


Nyasha Lesure 6’ SF/W (NV2012)~ A recent commit to Nevada Nyasha is an athletic, long, 6’ wing or small forward. She really cleans up on the boards, has great bounce and length. Nyasha is speedy for 6’, navigates through traffic in control and has the jump to finish high at the basket, a great rebounder, cutter/slasher defensive specialist.


Bayli Mcclard 6’ SF/W (CA2013)~ A 6’ small forward/wing that can knock down the three, owns the mid-range can create mis-matches and defend multiple positions. Mcclard has a great feel for the game and when her team struggled would consistently infuse energy with her play and ability to step up and knock down big shots.


Chantel Osahor 6’3 C (AZ2013)~ One of the most fun to watch players on the circuit, with the absence of Shilpa Tumalla (Harvard commit) & Cortnee Walton (Louisville), Chantel made the most obvious difference in games with her play making ability from the center position. She can and will, without hesitation now pull the outside three with her funky set shot. Because she plays with such poise she always surprises with quick definitive moves and is deceptively quick as bigger player, whether she spins on a defender on the block, jab steps you off and pulls back for the three or throws a behind the back pass. She is nifty, unassuming, therefore deceptive and creative in her ability to create from inside or out. I believe led her team in assists from the 5 position in their state championship game.


Cheyenne Greenhouse 5’10” G (CA2014)~ Is stepping up where Teara Laudermill (Nebraska) left off for her high school and club team Canyon Spring Cougars. Great size at 5’10” and long at the PG position. She possesses a smooth between the legs crossover that allows her separation from her defender. She has great handles. She can pull up off the dribble and rise over defenders for the jump shot, has great athleticism. Decision making is going to be key for her success.


Mariya Moore 6’ G/W (CA2014)~ Get’s it done. She plays with a reckless abandon, maybe too reckless sometimes but she finds a way, whether pretty or not, to get it done. Mariya creates a lot of mis-matches because at 6’, rugged and big, she can bring the ball up, attack off the dribble, post inside and shoot outside. She plays like a true competitor and like she truly loves playing the game. She doesn’t back down from anyone. Matter of fact her newly formed club team NorCal Future Elite came into the tournament facing the AZ Warriors (ESPN #11 Best of Summer, arguably higher, they beat #1, #8, #10 in front of them) first game, her play along with the quick play of her sister Minyon upset the AZ Warriors. WOW! They have only one upper classman in the bunch. Watch this group.


Michelle Miller 5’10 G (CA2012)~ Showed the most maturity in her game from the last time I saw her. Cal Storm Taurasi without many of the other senior players, Miller stepped up and filled shoes. She really let her game loose and without the other big names in front of her, she shined.

AZ's Top Performers 4/8-10

Pictured kneeling L-R: Kenna McDavis, Shilpa Tummala, Alexa Jacobs; standing L-R: Jasmine Hotchkins, Cortnee Walton.

Leading into the springs evaluation period many teams and players like to get in some game time in local tournaments to work out kinks, shake off rust, and sharpen timing in preparation.  This weekend was no different in that many players showed why they are highly regarded prospects, new faces arose out of the bunch and budding stars continued to separate themselves.
Here is a briefing on some of the Arizona players to be seen next weekend starting with the 2012 class on through some 2015 players in no particular order.

2012's

• Cortnee Walton, 6'2 F, (AZ12):  Plays hard is her modus operandi.  She doesn't take a play off.  She plays for the team and bigger good, setting screens, blocking shots, rebounding, rotating off help-side defense.  She covers on-ball screens with the best of them, showing well and recovering.  She can hit the 15ft shot consistently. She has vastly improved her ability to put the ball on the ground and attack the basket from the pinch/high post area.  She is relatively proficient with her back to the basket.  Doesn't necessarily possess a variety of moves but knows how to use her body, protect the ball and finish. At 6'2 she possesses a solid build, fit with good shoulders, solid legs, a very durable body.  I've not known her to be injury prone.  Cortnee can greatly improve her game by getting more range on her jump shot, improving on perimeter skills and finishes.  She has been spending the past month running the 300 hurdles for school track team.  She will be traveling with her club team AZ Warriors to Boo Williams 4/15-17. They have not had practice together since high school ended and will be missing play-maker Shilpa Tummala.  Not sure what they will bring to the table this year at Boo.
• Shilpa Tummala, 5'11 G, (AZ12):  Shilpa is a game changer, simply put.  She is very capable of having big games and has had many of them, none bigger than her first half 18pts. before leaving the game with an injury to help lead her high school team, St. Mary's, to a state title this year. Also scored 30pts against Boo in last year's Boo William's event to only come up a possession short of taking the host team down in the first round.  Shilpa scores in a variety of ways, with the three ball, off the dribble, cutting/slashing, running the floor.  Shilpa will get better the better she takes care of her body.  It's very important she work on her defensive footwork, agility, conditioning and speed.  Strength training is going to improve her game drastically and help her to stay better injury free. She has been rehabbing a shoulder injury she sustained in the Arizona state championship game.  She was a last second scratch from Boo and will not be traveling with her club team to Virginia to better take care of her injury and not having the opportunity to prepare for competition.
• Jamee Swan, 6'2 F, (AZ12):  A very energetic small forward that plays with a lot of energy and emotion.  She rebounds with a viciousness and every time I have seen her she has improved more on her outside shot.  She possesses length and athleticism in a solid build. She is a fierce competitor and worker.  She seems to be headed in the right direction with her training, can maybe attack the basket better, add second moves to beat help and counters. Will be playing with AZ Elite at Elite Classic in Tempe AZ. 4/15-17
• Shealyn Brown, 6'4 P, (AZ12): The best 6'4 body in Arizona. She has strong legs, good build for a post.  She is still looking to define her game in more detail but more and more I see her she is getting comfortable and making plays.  Shea runs the floor very well.  She is a presence inside and alters a lot of shots. She pulls down rebounds and is strong with the ball.  She has a nice stroke that she can connect on from 15ft.  The physical tools she brings to her game are undeniable but what would take her game to the next level is a deeper low post game.  She stills looks uncomfortable playing with her back to the basket and doesn't show a variety of moves.  I also think she can be great on the bounce but I need to see her attack the basket more.  Will be playing with AZ Elite at Elite Classic in Tempe AZ. 4/15-17.
• Emily Wahlberg, 6'3 F, (AZ12): Not as strongly built as the other forwards and posts listed but has the best range on her shot.  Emily can shoot the three, the mid-range and pull-up off the dribble.  Not enormously quick but with work and strength training she can be a solid small forward because she has solid fundamentals and skills. Emily is probably also the best passer out of the bunch.  Both her high school and club team have good perimeter shooters and she has learned to find them.  Emily's biggest turnaround is going to be her getting stronger, faster and quicker.  She can probably use some tightening up on her dribbling since she is going to be a player that can play out on the perimeter as well as inside.  She doesn't seem to be very physical inside yet and is maybe more apt to place a face up game so possessing those skills are going to be key. Will be playing with AZ Rhythm at Boo.
• JeZhe Newton, 6'4 P, (AZ12): JeZheJeZhe doesn't particularly like to bang inside and struggles against feistier smaller posts that will get physical and hustle more. She tends to lose her legs and struggle finishing in hard battled games. So what I think is really important for her preparation to play at the next level is to learn to be more physical, work on her conditioning and work on her drive to attack the basket. Will be playing with GSB at Boo 4/15-17.
• Simone Westbrook, 5'9 G, (AZ12): Verbal commit to ASU is a crafty guard, very physical with good size. Shows some athleticism on takes and finishes at the basket. Likes to get out in the open court and is a great 1/1 player in those confines. She gets a lot of steels, knows how to anticipate in the passing lanes and when playing ball.  Can be a good rebounding guard. Doesn't have the most orthodox or pretty shot but will connect if left too wide open.  She prefers to drive and get to the rim.  Doesn't really possess a shot off the dribble. Might be too late but does need some work on her jump shot. She anticipates well but does seem a little slow at times.  Maybe doesn't always give all her effort on every possession.  She will be playing for GSB at Boo 4/15-17. **This just in- Simone will not be traveling to Boo, per personal reasons.**
• Arnecia Hawkins, 5'8 G,(AZ12): Early Verbal commit to ASU, very smooth poised player, very sound, disciplined.  Arnecia is very good at getting to the line, knows how to get to the rim and draw contact. She has a great mid-range game. Arnecia's game is getting that first step and pulling up for short jumper.  She is very good and consistent from the 10-17ft area. She is very light on her feet and get down the floor in a hurry.  Her shot can tend to be a little flat which is a bigger factor for her shooting beyond the arc. She is good with the dribble but not exceptionally quick or strong which seems to be a factor against ball pressure.  She looks more comfortable in the off guard roll as opposed to a point guard position.  I would like to see Arnecia getting stronger physically and make her dribble stronger and quicker.
• Cassidy Ranger, 5'10 SG, (AZ12): Cassidy is AZ's most improved player over all.  She didn't even make her varsity squad last year.  She has put in a lot of work with a great shooting coach her in AZ. and continues to make strides in her game.  She has solid shooting mechanics and is getting more and more consistent every time I see her. She has a solid 5'10 frame.  Her biggest adjustments have been catching up with the speed of games, defense, experience and she has made huge leaps since the first time i watched her.  She is still a subpar defender but I have notice improvements in this area and I believe she is committed to the end to continue her growth.
• Lauren Evans, 5'11 SG, (AZ12): Lauren is an athletic long lock down defender. She is highly competitive and brings it every night. Known for her defense, but Lauren is going to give you 15pts & 5-7 rebounds, 5stls a night on top of locking down opponents best perimeter player. Lauren does a great job of getting inside an opponents defense, whether off the drive or cut to knock down that 10-15ft jumper.  She can handle the ball in the back court.  Not a great 3 point shooter but still needs to be guarded outside the arc.  She does tend to over gamble on the defensive side and will have to learn to play more straight up against better ball handlers that will make her pay.  She can learn to become a stronger dribbler and more consistent shooter beyond the arc.

2013's

• Lindsay Leikem, 6'2 F, (AZ13): A very sound fundamental forward.  Lindsay has the best shooting mechanics of any AZ big.  She is solid with her mid-range game.  She has decent ball handling ability, not extremely athletic or quick.  She is a safe player, not very dynamic but doesn't make a lot of mistakes. She plays within her self and fill it up if you can get her open in the right spots.
• Sydney Wiese, 5'6 G, (AZ13): Syd's M.O. is she has massive range, a lefty that is a deadly 3 point shooter. Syd is not afraid to launch it from anywhere on the court in any situation.  She is very offensively minded.  Syd is a great free throw shooter.  In the past year she has learned to set her feet better, quicker and quickened her release.  She seems to demonstrate moxy and poise in big games.  Syd has a very lean frame and is bumped off her dribble to easy. She struggles against stronger, quicker guards and is a sub-par defender.  She just doesn't have the strength or speed to stop elite guards.  She easily gets coerced into dribbling too much and into traps. Problem she has playing good guards is she dribbles with her head down, too much and doesn't have good economy of motion.  Just as her positive M.O. is she has range, her negative M.O. is whe turns the ball over too much and takes too many of her own shots. She is much better off the ball but is primary point guard for high school.  She does also tend to take ill-advised shots in the course of a game but that can be interpreted as what she is being asked to do.  Will be present at Boo with her club team GSB.
• Jasmine Hotchkins, 5'4 PG, (AZ13):  Super quick guard with superb ball skills. Jas is a great defender that can pressure the ball the length of the floor, she is very disruptive defensively and pesky.  She is getting much better off the ball anticipating passing lanes and coming up with steals.  Jas is a great shooting point guard that can score as well as distribute.  She has range, a very quick step and super quick pull-up off the dribble. Although she is becoming more proficient getting to and finishing around the basket amongst the bigs she can probably look to penetrate more with her skills and create for her team.  She can tend to put her head down on the take and miss open teammates.  Needs to learn to be more assertive, better communicator and leader on the floor.  Jas has played with many good players and still tends to pass and hide when she can help her team by being more assertive. Jas will be in Tempe at the AZ Elite Classic with her new club team AZ Rebels
• Britta Nordstrom, 5'11 F, (AZ13): Very athletic, powerful and strong on the take.  possesses good speed in the open court, can finish strong around the basket.  Britta has improved her outside shot but maybe not real consistent yet, much better driver and slasher right now.  She can work on her first step and developing a more consistent shot outside will drastically help that.  Is just an average defender and learn to improve her defensive game.  Will be at Boo playing for GSB.
• Kenna McDavis, 6'1 W,(AZ13): Kenna has good size at the wing and is long.  She has one of the smoothest strokes and can flat out shoot it from outside in transition.  She is athletic.  She can block shots and even play some offense down low or from the pinch/high post. Her size and length helps her on the take but she still tends to drive to upright, doesn't necessarily beat her defender, gets them low and makes a move on them.  Kenna is a great shot blocker but can sometimes be over anxious and find her self in foul trouble. She loves to play the game but sometimes might show too much frustration on the court. Although it is something she has gotten better with. Kenna will be playing with AZ Rebels at the AZ Elite Classic in Tempe, AZ.
• Kyndall Adams, 5'10 G, (AZ13): Athletic, great rebounding guard who knows how to get to the line.  Kyndall has played out of position a lot for her teams, truly a guard that has played a lot of forward.  That is the reason why she probably plays so strong when she drives or goes back up on offensive boards. She has learned to play bigger than she really is.  She has an outside game and the more she gets to exercise it, the more proficient she will become.  Tends to drive a lot when I would like to see her pull-up or shoot the open outside shot more when it presents it self. Confidence to shoot from outside and extending her range will be key to her success. Continually improving her ball skills is a must as I see her as a combo guard at the next level. She will be playing with her club AZ Rhythm in Virginia at Boo.
• Katie Werner, 6'1 W, (AZ13): Great size out on the wing.  She hustles, plays hard, rebounds and knocks down outside shots.  She does a sound job containing her opponent and keeping players off the boards.  She still tends to drive up-right.  Her ball skills have improved much over the past year and can possibly even help bring the ball up against pressure. I see strength training playing a key role in her development, learning how to get low on her drive. I would like to see her set her feet a little quicker and quicken her shot and realease. She will be playing for her club team GSB at Boo.
• Olivia Lucero, 5'9 PG, (AZ13): Is a great system point.  She has shown her ability to set her team up and consistantly run a teams offense.  She is not necessarily a scorer but possesses tools to score if she has the opportunity.  She takes care of the ball and is heading in the right direction. Has good size at the pg position but can possibly be a more prolific ball handler and stronger. Plays for AZ Elite. They will be competing in their own tournament in Tempe this weekend.
• Alexa Jacobs, 5'8 G, (AZ13): Solid defender, fierce competitor, plays with a lot of energy.  She is pesky and can make plays on the defensive end.  She can knock down the open shot. Shot tends to be a little flat and can improve consistency with a little better arc. Decision making, making reads, and floor leadership are going to be key in her development. Playing for AZ Rebels in Tempe, Az this weekend.
• Chantel Osahor, 6'3 P, (AZ13): Great hands, vision and passing ability.  Probably the best passing post in the nation.  Chantel is very deceptive in everything she does, looks off defenders and can make no-look passes.  She sets up her drive well and can take to the basket.  She blocks shots and rebounds very well.  She can also help bring the ball up against pressure.  She also has to be guarded out on the perimeter because she can hit the three.  Key for Chantel is going to be her commitment to getting in shape.  She tends to get winded easily and she has had issues with injuries that can be drastically reduced with better conditioning. Her durability is a big question.  She will be playing with her club AZ Warriors in Boo Williams.
• Lyndsey Leikam, 6'2 F, (AZ13): Solid fundamentals, great shooting mechanics, solid frame and size for her position.  Lyndsey is a hard match-up because of her versatility with her size.  She can handle the ball, shoot, post, rebound, defend. I would like to see her work on her speed and extend her range.  If she can play more on the perimeter she will truly be a gem. Playing for AZ Warriors at Boo Williams.
• Dominique Williams, 5'9 G, (AZ13): Solid build, strong, tenacious defender. Dom is a bully on ball handlers.  With her build and energy she expends on the defensive end is frightening to other guards. She sees the floor well and knows how to push the ball and create tempo for her team.  Offensive perimeter skills are a little lacking and she might have trouble scoring if she needs to.  She will make her self better with better change of direction moves and working on her ability to shoot from outside. Playing with AZ Warriors at Boo.
• Danielle Williams, 5'9 G, (AZ13): Maybe not as strong as her twin sister but quicker. She also is tenacious on the ball, really knows how to play defense. She has great court vision and makes great reads with the ball. A little better offensively than her sister but can also vastly improve her ability to change directions off the dribble and develop a more consistent shot. Both sisters struggle to find their own offense or create their own shot.  Playing with AZ Warriors at Boo Williams.
• Chloe Johnson 5'6 G, (AZ13): Extremely athletic, fast and strong. She makes strong moves to the basket.  She is very vocal and shows leadership schools.  Not exceptionally quick handles but powerful explosiveness.  Needs some fundamental work on her shot.  Doesn't have great finger tip action, small hands. Ball comes off the side of the hand too much, tends to miss east/west more than north/south. Doesn't know quite how to get her legs in her shot yet. Doesn't have a mid-range game either.  Game is mostly predicated on athleticism and getting to the rim. Traveling with GSB to Boo.
• Aliyah Dickson 5'9 F, (AZ13): Strong, powerful athlete in the small forward/guard position.  Aliyah caries a strong wide frame with guard like athleticism.  She really knows how to use her body and is best at finishing against contact.  Game can be similar to a Bri Smith if she dedicated her self to the game, her team, and conditioning.  Aliyah is not a strong outside shooter.  She can learn to become more consistent outside and improve perimeter skills.  She relies on cutting slashing right now. Traveling with GSB to Boo



2014's coming





• Courtney Ekmark, 6' G, (AZ14): Displays arguably the best shooting mechanics of guards in Arizona.  She knows how to set her feet, spot up in teams offense.  As good as a shooter Ekmark is she also possesses great patience withing her teams offense.  She will keep working the ball within her teams offense until they get a lay-up or well open, uncontested shot. She is a pure shooter but also has the ability to handle the ball in the full court and has great court vision.  Courtney is not overly quick or strong and can struggle against quicker more athletic guards both on the defensive and offensive end. Courtney has a very lean frame and her lack of strength might be the biggest factor in her inability to explode off the dribble, get open or stay low and move her feet on defense. Having said that her opportunity to gain more mass is important.  She has the basketball tools tot do things maybe her body can't allow her to do right now.  Her 1st step can see improvement, her ability to create her own shot, get open, and play better defense can all improve. She has a superb shot but can possibly quicken her release a little as long as it doesn't take away from her efficiency. Traveling to Boo with her club team AZ Warriors coached by her dad Curtis, who also coaches her high school team.
• Casey Rarrick, 5'9 G, (AZ14): Fearless shooting guard who can attack the basket and connect from outside.  Casey has a certain moxy about her and caries her self with lots of confidence.  She plays big minutes for her high school and club team. Her club team possesses a lot of shooters that help spread the floor and have great ball movement.  My concern with Casey will be how she can handle pressure and how she will be effective against teams that play tighter defense. Her dribble isn't real quick and strong and she plays up-right, as do many young players. Needs to improve her point guard skills. Plays for AZ Rhythm who will be at Boo.
• Emily Wolph, 5'4 PG, (AZ14) Small quick guard, good handles that can shoot from outside. Great game at mid level.  Not sure she has the frame to get that much stronger to be an impact player at the next level.  She will definitely need to get stronger, especially in the legs and clean up her shot mechanics. AZ Rhythm will be at Boo.
• Ceclily Wilson, 5'9 G, (AZ14) Has displayed a lot of athleticism in attacking the basket. Elite athleticism right now.  Needs to continue to work on game and develop an outside shot.
2015's
• Armani Hawkins, 5'6, (AZ15): Showing the beginnings of a budding star.  She possesses strong fundamentals and has a great feel for the game. Playing for AZ Elite in Tempe.
• Sabrina Haines 5'8, (AZ15): Very good rebounding guard, strong with major game experience for her age. She is a hard worker on the floor and seems to find ways to impact the game, mostly through her hustle and work. Playing for AZ Elite in Tempe.
• Kendall Perry 5'7 G, (AZ15): Kendall is shaping up into a nice leader, capable of running a team. She has sound skills and looks to keep on flourishing.
• 

THE SHILPA FACTOR

pictured L-R: Shilpa Tummala, Kenna McDavis

In a highly anticipated rematch between #1 (5AII) Pinnacle and #1 (5AI) St.Marys  much was at stake.  For Pinnacle it would be their right to a claim to fame, solidify themselves as not just a top notch AZ program but a chance at national recognition, recognition for their players and bragging rights.  For St. Mary's it was about pride, tradition, a standard and not slipping another spot in ESPN/Powerade FAB 50.  St.Mary's entered the season ranked as high as #7 nationally but has dropped down to #17 after their recent loss to Pinnacle.  In that first match-up Shilpa un-characteristically fouled out in the first half of play, only putting up three points for the entire game.  Being forced to sit most of the first half and eventually fouling out nullified her ability to be the impact player she is for her team and the factor her opponents have to reckon with throughout the course of the show.  That allowed Pinnacle to stifle St. Mary's offensive prowess with their popular box/diamond and one on sharp shooter Courtney Ekmark. The final score was St. Mary's 58, Pinnacle 68.

Since that first showdown, the rematch has been the talk of AZ's womens' hoops community.  St. Mary's used the forum for breast cancer awareness, calling for a "Pink Out", sported their pink warm-ups and high-glossy pink Nike 2010 Hyper Dunks.  OK, enough with the fashion status, on to the game.  Again like in the first game ShilpaTummala started the game on the bench.  This allowed Pinnacle an effective leverage on SM's. By imploring their diamond/1 and box/1 defensive set, Pinnacle was able to cut down the opportunities of Courtney Ekmark, SM's biggest scoring threat on the floor at the time.  SM's showed patience with the offense but still bewildered on how to score they took many shots that were off the mark.  Just what Pinnacle wanted to get into their transition offense.  Pinnacle quickly went up 8-2, mostly on break away lay-ups.  SM's looked a step slow, matched up in transition poorly and were getting out hustled, out rebounded.  Then entered ShilpaTummala into the game.  Within a minute she made her presence felt with consecutive 3's that tied the game.  Kenna McDavis came down on the other end and connected from long range herself, keeping Pinnacle in the game.  Then Shilpa hit her third straight 3 and quickly the fans caught fire and momentum starting swinging in SM's favor.  SM's found their offense which was allowing their press defense to become affective. When Ekmark started connecting from outside, SM's went on a scoring binge to close out the quarter 20-12.  During the 3rd quarter, SM's started to pick apart the Pinnacle defense with their passing game.  I have yet to see a high school team as patient and score off the pass as well as SM's.  SM's was finding back door cuts off pass feeds by Osahor and the Williams sisters.  SM's suffocating jump defense allowed Pinnacle to score only 7 points in the 2nd.  Numerous Pinnacle turnovers and SM's efficiency gave SM's the upper hand in terms of possession and they converted for 20 points of their own in the 2nd.  SM's took a dominant 40-19 lead into intermission.  

SM's continued their torrid pace into the the 3rd.  Walton's presence inside was keeping drivers at bay and limited Pinnacles second chances.  Pinnacle's only highlight in the half was Weise's relentless attack of the basket that got her to the charity stripe a few times and to the basket on an un-characteristic SM's lack of help defense.  Kenna McDavis was an efficient 2-3 from 3 and showed ability to pull up off the dribble but Pinnacle's in-ability to take care of the ball at times hand-cuffed their offensive weapons.

By the first minute of the 4thQ SM's had gained a 29 point advantage 66-37 and Pinnacle's reserves were entering the game to finish it off.  SM's would eventually coast to a 69-49 victory.  The turning point can be isolated way back in the first quarter when Shilpa entered the game and knocked down 3 consecutive 3's in just three minutes of her being on the floor.  She finished the first half with 16 points and 25 points for the game, always a hard item for opponents to account for when she is doing it like she so often does.  The difference in the game, the X factor, equals the "THE SHILPA FACTOR".  Many girls stepped up and showed their worth and on any given night a dozen or so of the players that played this night can have big games but the night belonged to St. Mary's and the MVP was Shilpa Tummala.

Pinnacle Upsets #11 St. Mary's

L-R: Britta Nordstrom, Kenna McDavis, Sydney Wiese

In a highly anticipated game with lots of local news coverage and college coaches in attendance, Pinnacle did the unthinkable. They took down highly touted, #11 (ESPN/Powerade) ranked St. Mary's Knights. Pinnacle packs a powerful punch behind 6'5 UofA commit Aley Rohde. Behind Aley are three young budding superstars, 5'6(G) Sydney Wiese AZ-13, 6'1(W) Kenna McDavis AZ-13, and 6'(W)Britta Nordstrom AZ-13, who are all garnering lots of DI attention. That's quite a lineup but Pinnacle has shown some inconsistencies and lack of defensive presence at times this year. Add that to how wonderful a team St. Mary's is, with 10 potential DI prospects, a #11 ESPN ranking and not a lot of people were giving Pinnacle a chance. St. Mary's has faced similar challenges against a talented Chandler and Hamilton and beat them both by a combined 50+ points. St. Mary's only close game against another AZ team was a couple weeks ago when Xavier had them within 4pts with three minutes to go. St. Mary's would end up winning that game by 9.

St. Mary's looked flustered early and Shilpa Tummala was in foul trouble. Pinnacle was throwing multiple defensive looks at St.Mary's trying to keep them off balance. After Tummala fouled out early in the game Pinnacle was really able to put the pressure on St. Mary's by taking away their best scoring threat left on the floor, Courtney Ekmark. Pinnacle would implore their smothering box & one and stifle SM's offense. Only up by 4 with less than 4 minutes to go St. Mary's would make some costly turnovers and with Wiese scoring 10 of her 27 points in the 4th quarter, SM's would find themselves behind with time running out. Down the stretch Pinnacle would take control and St. Mary's finding themselves in uncharted territory looked very uncharacteristic faltering to Pinnacle 68-58.

Pinnacle: Wiese 27pts, Rohde 17pts, McDavis 13pts
SM's: Dickson 14pts, Ekmark 10pts

ST.MARY'S v XAVIER 1-10-11

Two of the more storied programs and rivalries in Arizona high school girls' sports belongs to the two schools of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix, Xavier and St. Mary's. Basketball in particular draws special attention this year because currently St. Mary's is nationally ranked #14 by ESPN/Powerade. St. Mary's opened the season #7 by ESPN/Powerade but recently lost their footing losing to a very talented Monarchs (Louisville,CO), which features Eliza Norman (ASU commit) as their top player. Also because two current Gators once played with the Az Warriors AAU National championship team, which is comprised of 8 Knights and coached also by Curtis Ekmark. Don't get me wrong, off the court these girls are great friends and acquaintances, but every year this date is marked on the calendar and highly anticipated by players and fans alike. The game is naturally attended well by boosters, alumni, and students. This nights game had the potential of being a block buster if it wasn't for the BCS Bowl Championship game being played in Arizona on the same night, but still a packed house. The game was scheduled on a Monday night when most other valley basketball teams had off.
As if the 15-1 St.Mary's Knights weren't imposing enough by each player's physical build, talent, and well known relentless full-court press, the game was on their court, in their house, on their floor. St. Marys is coached by Curtis Ekmark, who is in his fourth year as head coach. Xavier is coached by first year head coach of the Gators Mary Hauser who had previous stops at Jesuit (OR) and Mater Dei (CA).
Tip off went to St. Mary's and they attacked first but Shilpa Tummala's shot fell short. A quick outlet and push up the floor put Xavier on the board first with a Erin Tucker lay-up. Xavier imploring a nice aggresive man/man switch off defense was locking up SM and causing a little delay and confusion in their offense, not to mention the always feisty defense by Aubrey Lincoln, the most under-rated senior pg in Az. And just like that, Xavier went on a 12-4 run to open up the game and Courtney Ekmark on the bench with foul trouble. The young freshman phenom Ekmark seamed baffled by the speed and intensity of the game. St.Mary's would have to do without the sharp shooter for almost the entire second quarter. Ekmark wasn't the only one struggling, super soph Jasmine Hotchkins, whom Xavier was going to need to counter the press in the back-court, seemed a little shaky in her time on the court in the first half. SM turned on the pressure behind the powerful defensive game of Dominique and Daniel Williams. SM started to relax on offense and with Cortnee Walton's ability to shoot and attack off the dribble from the high post area, went on a 21-5 run of their own. SM was up 25-17 before Rikki Mulloy knocked down one of her patented three's to cut the lead 25-20 with one minute remaining in the half. And just when Xavier thought they had themselves in good position to end the half, the Shilpa Tummala show begin. Shilpa hit two of her game total six three's in the first half's final minute to put St. Mary's up 31-20 before the teams headed to the locker room.
The third quarter saw SM extend their lead by as much as 16, as Xavier struggled to put points up on the board. Although the Gator's defense was still stifling SM's opportunities on offense. The third quarter belonged to Tummala, who was hitting big shots, and Walton, who was cleaning the glass like a street corner bum. As the game moved into the fourth quarter, obvious fatigue was settling in but so was super soph Hotchkins, who owns one of the quickest first steps and used it to get by her defender to knock down a timely fifteen footer to get Xavier within eleven (44-33). Then sensational sophomore Katie Werner, who was having a great game, knocked down two big shots, the first cutting the lead 46-38, the second putting Xavier within four 48-44. With just three minutes remaining, that was as close as Xavier got, as Shilpa Tummala would catch fire again. Coming off a down screen Tummala caught the ball beyond the arc turned and knocked down her final of six three's to put SM up 58-46. Xavier would claw back in the final minutes of the game, but out of time, losing by nine 59-50.

Nike TOC (Joe Smith) Individual Awards

• Darling of the Tournament - Alexis Riley-Perry (2011 Brea Olinda): There was not a player on the court that played with us much heart and determination as Lexy Perry. This young lady has what it takes. She is tenacious, determined, and resolvent. In her her words, she is "the best unsigned guard in the country." One couldn't help but cheer for her.
• Defensive Player - Tajanae Winston (2011 LB Poly): After Kaleena Lewis erupted for 25 first half points, Winston drew the assignment of stopping Lewis. She is long, athletic, anticipates, and plays passing lanes tremendously. In the second half of the Mater Dei and LB Poly game she seemed to be two steps ahead of anything Mater Dei was doing.
• Impact Player - Justine Hartman (2011 Brea Olinda): Her presence on the floor draws so much attention she really opens things up for her teammates. When she is presented with the ball either on the low block or high post she makes good things happen. She is a superb passer, a confident scorer, and poised leader.
• Best Player - Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis (2011 Mater Dei): Is no doubt the best player in the country. There is nothing to argue. She has a refined skill set, basketball smarts, and big time play. She is at a whole different level than most. She is one of those elite players that will go on to do great things in women's basketball.
• Most Exciting - Ariya Crook-Williams (2011 LB Polly): Crafty and quick, Ariya will leave defenders stuck like in mudd with her AI like crossovers and in&out move. She knows how to get in the paint and make plays. She is listed at 5'7 which might be a little of an exageration. She reminds me of my favorite female basketball player, Dymond Simon.
• Board Queen - Jeanier Olukemi (2012 Brea Olinda): 6', long and extremely athletic, Jeanier jumps twice before other 6fters ever leave the ground, and twice as high. She anticipates well and has great timing catching the ball at highest point. She has great hands and secures the ball well.
• Most Athletic - Madison Cable (2011 Mt. Lebanon): She combines speed, leaping ability, hand-eye coordination, and balance as good as the best. She can cuts and drives to the basket with such ease and has great body control. Is able to get around help defenders with the step, dribble or in the air to finish. Shoots well, dribbles dexterously.
• Toughest Player - Bria Smith (2011 Christ The King): Who doesn't like to watch this young lady play. When she is on the take, it is fierce, aggressive, powerful. At 5'10, strong shoulders and muscular build, she gets everything out of it. She doesn't just box players out she moves them and if your thinking about tying her up with the ball, think again. I've never seen her lose a tie up, if she even gets tied up.
• Best Pure Shooter - Courtney Ekmark (2014 St.Marys az): With a 6' long frame, she can get shots off. She spots up well, knows how to set her feet and has a great release and finish. Opponents need to know where she is at all times. Is a high percentage free throw shooter.
• Hustle Award - Kennedy Cattenhead (2013 Bollingbrook): You don't have to tell her to get on the ball. I seen her fully lay out more than a couple times diving for a loose ball. She is a great defender and sprints every possession. She has a great demeanor towards working hard.
• Play Maker - Lauren Chase (2011 Riverdale Baptist): Can't take your eyes off the floor for a minute because you never know when your going to miss something spectacular. Whether it's a nifty no look pass, ankle breaking move or acrobatic finish, Lauren has the craft for excitement.
• The Leader - Ariel Massengale (2011 Bollingbrook): What sets Ariel apart from the rest of the PG's in America is her ability to lead. She has a much needed understanding of the game to be such a leader. She controls game tempo. She has the utmost respect of her teammates. She has the utmost respect for her teammates. She knows and understands her players, where to get them the ball, whether their hot or how to get them hot. She is a floor general.

First Team All-Tournament Selection as reported by me on http://www.shecanplay.org/index.php/topic,1514.msg2765.html#msg2765