Category Archives: Duke Basketball

Getting to the Point (and the Post)!

scheyer-iiAfter Duke's Sweet 16 loss to Villanova, on March 27, Coach Krzyzweski was asked, "Does this in any way make you more eager to find a post player who can really score?" He answered, "And a point. And we feel -- it's not like we haven't tried to find them. A couple of them have gone to other schools right at the last second. We were like a three-headed monster on offense. And it carried us a long way, but it couldn't -- they played a lot of five against three tonight."

The Blue Devils may end up with a top rated point guard but it will not be from the Class of 2009. Eric Bledsoe and John Wall have signed with Kentucky, while Darius Smith decided to head East to Connecticut. Those three point guards all had Duke on their list, but the Blue Devils have most likely finished up their recruiting for this year and did not bring in a point guard to complement 6'11 Mason Plumlee and 6'9" Ryan Kelly two McDonald's All-Americans who will potentially provide Coach Krzyzewski considerable depth in the front court. The recruiting focus now shifts to 2010.

For this coming season, point guard duties will remain with Senior Jon Scheyer, a 6'5" wing guard, and Junior Nolan Smith, a 6'3" combo guard. While neither Scheyer nor Smith is a true point guard, both players bring point guard skills onto the court. When the two play together those skills combine to create a point guard who, while not spectacular, is certainly solid.

Jon Scheyer protects the basketball which results in a minimal number of turnovers. After Scheyer led Duke to the ACC Championship and was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player, Kyle Singler commented, "He makes plays for himself and others. That spot for us, when Jon has been there, has been huge for us." For the season, Scheyer recorded a 1.8:1 assists to turnover ratio, while averaging 14.9 points per game. Defensively, Scheyer is a tremendous off-the-ball defender who led Duke with 1.6 steals per game.

Nolan Smith's key skills are on-the-ball defense and the ability to finish at the rim. When he is healthy, Smith is a player who makes Duke a stronger team. Staying healthy has been a bit of a challenge for Smith over his first two seasons as a Blue Devil. He missed three games, late this past regular season, after suffering a concussion and bruised ribs in a game at Maryland. As a freshman, Smith was slowed down the stretch after hyper-extending his knee. With Duke being thin in the backcourt this coming season, it is imperative Smith avoid any significant injuries such as the concussion as well as the nagging little problems of his freshman year.

Last season, the three headed monster Coach Krzyzewski alluded to was: Kyle Singler, Gerald Henderson, and Jon Scheyer. The three combined to average 47.9 points per game which represents 72 percent of the team’s points. With Gerald Henderson gone to the NBA, Coach Krzyzewski will be looking for a couple of players to step up their consistency on offense. Nolan Smith, who averaged 8.4 points per game last season, is a likely candidate as is Elliot Williams, who averaged 4.2 points.

As a freshman, Williams came on strong, after being inserted into the starting line-up, averaging 7.3 points over the last 12 games. Williams brings exceptional athleticism onto the court and has the ability to play pressure defense. He needs to develop a consistent jump shot and must improve on his woeful free throw percentage, but Blue Devil fans should look for Williams to be a significant factor in the rotation from day one especially if he makes the type of freshman-to-sophomore improvements prevalent in the college game.

Coach Krzyzewski will only have three guards at his disposal next year so look for Kyle Singler to spend major minutes at small forward. Duke will have to play a larger line-up out of necessity and the competition for playing time should be fierce. Seniors Lance Thomas and Brian Zoubek have started 62 and 21 games respectively during their first three seasons in Durham. They have the advantage of understanding Coach Krzyzewski’s defensive system and will be looking to have breakout senior seasons. Neither player has proven to be a consistent offensive option but both have their niche. Thomas is a versatile defender who is valuable in a fast tempo contest, while Zoubek is an extremely talented passer out of the high post. Zoubek made 82.8 percent of his free throw attempts as a junior.

Sophomore Miles Plumlee and freshmen Mason Plumlee and Ryan Kelly will be intent on taking away playing time from the two experienced seniors. Miles Plumlee looked lost on the court at times during his freshman season but also showed flashes of talent. He is mobile and should benefit from the standard freshman-to-sophomore improvement. His brother, Mason Plumlee is a player many analysts believe has the ability to make an immediate impact. Time will tell. Ryan Kelly is a wiry outside-in player with 3-point range. Kelly won the 3-point shooting contest at this year’s McDonald’s All-American game.

Out of those five frontcourt options, someone needs to step up and establish themselves as a consistent offensive threat. As Coach Krzyzewski stated in March, Duke played a lot of three on five last year and the lack of an interior offensive threat hurt the team. Zoubek and both the Plumlees have the size to be an impact post player what remains to be seen is if they can develop the game to get the job done. Thomas and Kelly are players who need to provide minutes at power forward so Singler can play on the wing.  Sophomore Olek Czyz is a wild card and could compete for playing time at power forward due to his leaping ability and strength, or see duty on the wing due to the lack of backcourt players.

Singler, Scheyer, Smith, and Williams will be the core of next year’s rotation. The question is who will be players five, six, and seven? The answer will be interesting but Duke Fans will have to wait until next year and ACC games in January before knowing the answer. In the meantime, it is only late spring and a whole summer of starting line-up and minutes per game speculation lies in front of us not to mention summer pick-up game reports. I’ll see you all on the message boards!

Bob Gibbons Tournament of Champions Schedule

Here are the Pools for all age groups in the 2009 Bob Gibbons Tournament of Champions.  Schedule to follow. 

16 pool winners advance to Bob Gibbons 17-under national playoffs. 16 second place teams in each pool advance to Bob Gibbons 17-under select playoffs.

Josh Hairston will be at the TOC with his D.C. Assault team
Josh Hairston will be at the TOC with his D.C. Assault team

2009 17-Under National Tournament - 64 Teams

17 and Under Pools
Pool A
A-1 CP3 All-Stars, NC
A-2 Team Philly
A-3 Illinois Wolves
A-4 Colorado Chaos

Pool B
B-1 Team Final, PA
B-2 Ohio Basketball
B-3 Hoop Planet, GA
B-4 Michigan Hurricanes

Pool C
C-1 Grassroots Canada
C-2 Squires Richmond
C-3 Carolina Raptors, SC
C-4 Team Truth, GA

Pool D
D-1 DC Assault
D-2 So. CA All-Stars
D-3 NC Gaters Blue
D-4 Dallas Seawolves

Pool E
E-1 New England Playaz
E-2 Hollis Price Elite, LA
E-3 Eric Gordon Central
E-4 Bball Stars of America

Pool F
F-1 Playaz Basketball Club
F-2 Florida Elite
F-3 Westchester Hawks
F-4 Team UBA, NC

Pool G
G-1 Nike Team Florida
G-2 Petersburg Elite
G-3 World Wide Renegades
G-4 Los Angeles Rage

Pool H
H-1 Team Detroit
H-2 Jackson MBA Elite
H-3 Carolina Cobras
H-4 Mike Miller M33M, TN

Pool I
I-1 New Heights, NY
I-2 Dallas Heroes
I-3 Team Breakdown, FL
I-4 Rising Stars JG. IL

Pool J
J-1 Team United, NC
J-2 WI Playground Warriors
J-3 NJ Roadrunners
J-4 Net Gain Sports, MN

Pool K
K-1 Memphis Magic Elite
K-2 Jackson Tigers, MS
K-3 Georgia Hawks
K-4 Team Takeover Canada

Pool L
L-1 Jacksonville Lee Bulls
L-2 Houston Select
L-3 Carolina Flight, NC
L-4 New York Panthers

Pool M
M-1 Atlanta Celtics
M-2 Memphis Stallions
M-3 Mid State Magic, NC
M-4 Baltimore Stars

Pool N
N-1 Brandon Bass Elite, TX
N-2 Michigan Mustangs
N-3 Florida Rams
N-4 Garner Road

Pool O
O-1 Team Odom West, CA
O-2 Team T.M.P., SC
O-3 Juice All-Stars, NY
O-4 Carolina Crusaders, NC

Pool P
P-1 Nashville Celtics
P-2 NC Force
P-3 SYF Players, IN
P-4 Houston Clippers

2009 16-Under National Tournament - 32 Teams
Eight pool winners advance to Bob Gibbons 16-Under National Quarterfinals. Eight second place finishers advance to Bob Gibbons 16-Under Select Quarterfinals.

16 and Under Pools
Pool A
A-1 Playaz Bball Club
A-2 New Heights, NY
A-3 SYF Players, IN
A-4 Team Detroit

Pool B
B-1 Team Final, PA
B-2 Atlanta Celtics
B-3 Takeover Canada
B-4 WV Wildcats

Pool C
C-1 DC Assault
C-2 Boo Williams All-Stars, VA
C-3 Long Island Lightning, NY
C-4 Rising Stars JG, IL

Pool D
D-1 Carolina Flight, NC
D-2 Team Philly
D-3 Squires Richmond
D-4 Dallas Heroes

Pool E
E-1 Indiana Elite/Team IN
E-2 Westchester Hawks, NY
E-3 WI Playground Warriors
E-4 NJ Roadrunners

Pool F
F-1 Syracuse Select
F-2 Carolina Raptors
F-3 Texas Athletes
F-4 Team Phenom, PA

Pool G
G-1 Grassroots Canada
G-2 Ohio Bball Club
G-3 Showtime Ballers, FL
G-4 Rich Soil, NY

Pool H
H-1 Team United, NC
H-2 Indiana Elite One
H-3 Nashville Celtics
H-4 Team Kobe, PA

2009 15-Under National Tournament - 32 Teams
Eight pool winners advance to Bob Gibbons 15-Under National Quarterfinals. Eight second place finishers advance to Bob Gibbons 15-Under Select Quarterfinals.

15 and under Pools
Pool A
A-1 DC Assault
A-2 WI Playground Warriors
A-3 LI Lightning, NY
A-4 WV Wildcats

Pool B
B-1 Atlanta Celtics
B-2 Grassroots Canada
B-3 Carolina Hoyas
B-4 Charlotte Nets

Pool C
C-1 Team Philly
C-2 Garner Road, NC
C-3 Boo Williams All-Stars
C-4 NLP, IL

Pool D
D-1 Dream Vision, CA
D-2 Petersburg Elite, VA
D-3 Carolina Raptors, NC
D-4 Team Melo, MD

Pool E
E-1 New Orleans Elite
E-2 PA Playaz
E-3 Nashville Celtics
E-4 KC Cowboy Players

Pool F
F-1 Memphis YOMCA
F-2 Indiana Elite/Team Indiana
F-3 Syracuse Select
F-4 NC Gaters 2012

Pool G
G-1 New York Gauchos
G-2 CP3 All-Stars
G-3 Eric Gordon Central
G-4 Squires Richmond

Pool H
H-1 Playaz Bball Club
H-2 Heart & Hustle, FL
H-3 Team Detroit
H-4 Team United, NC

Here is the complete schedule for the 2009 Bob Gibbons Tournament of Champions.

Note: HOME TEAM is listed FIRST. Home Team must wear white or light colored jerseys. Visitors will wear dark jerseys. Failure to wear correct uniforms will result in forfeit of game. Reversible jerseys are suggested. Bring your own practice balls.

FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2009
Time: UNC - DEAN E. SMITH CENTER
COURT #1
6:30 p.m. 17--D-2 So. Cal All-Stars vs. D-3 NC Gaters Blue
8:00 p.m. 17--A-1 Chris Paul CP3 All-Stars, NC vs. A-4 Colorado Chaos
9:30 p.m. 17--B-1 Team Final, PA vs. B-4 Michigan Hurricanes

COURT #2 (CENTER)
6:30 p.m. 17--G-1 Nike Team Florida vs. G-4 Los Angeles Rage
8:00 p.m. 17--P-1 Nashville Celtics vs. P-4 Houston Clippers
9:30 p.m. 17--C-1 Grassroots Canada vs. C-4 Team Truth, GA

COURT #3
6:30 p.m. 17--J-2 WI Playground Warriors vs. J-3 New Jersey Roadrunners
8:00 p.m. 17--H-2 Jackson MBA, MS vs. H-3 Carolina Cobras, NC
9:30 p.m. 17--O-2 Team T.M.P., SC vs. O-3 Juice All-Stars, NY

COURT #4 - UNC PRACTICE FACILITY
6:30 p.m. 17-- F-2 Florida Elite vs. F-3 Westchester Hawks, NY
8:00 p.m. 17-- O-1 Team Odom West, CA vs. O-4 Carolina Crusaders, NC
9:30 p.m. 16-- H-2 Indiana Elite One vs. H-3 Nashville Celtics

DUKE UNIVERSITY - CAMERON INDOOR STADIUM
COURT #5
6:30 p.m. 17--A-2 Team Philly vs. A-3 Illinois Wolves
8:00 p.m. 17--D-1 DC Assault vs. D-4 Dallas Seawolves
9:30 p.m. 17--E-1 New England Playaz, vs. E-4 Bball Stars of America, PA

DUKE UNIVERSITY - CARD GYM
COURT #6
6:30 p.m. 17--L-2 Houston Select vs. L-3 Carolina Flight, NC
8:00 p.m. 16--F-1 Syracuse Select, NY vs. F-4 Team Phenom, PA
9:30 p.m. 17--E-2 Hollis Price Elite, LA vs. E-3 Eric Gordon All-Stars, IN

DUKE UNIVERSITY - WILSON RECREATION CENTER - COURT #1
COURT #7
6:30 p.m. 17-- I-1 New Heights, NY vs. I-4 Rising Stars JG, IL
8:00 p.m. 17--J-1 Team United, NC vs. J-4 Net Gain Sports, MN
9:30 p.m. 17--F-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ vs. F-4 Team UBA, NC

DUKE UNIVERSITY - WILSON RECREATION CENTER - COURT #2
COURT #8
6:30 p.m. 16--A-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ vs. A-4 Team Detroit
8:00 p.m. 17-- L-1 Jacksonville Lee Bulls, FL vs. L-4 New York Panthers
9:30 p.m. 17--M-1 Atlanta Celtics vs. M-4 Baltimore Stars

N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY - REYNOLDS COLISEUM #1 - COURT #9
6:30 p.m. 17--P-2 NC Force vs. P-3 SYF Players, IN
8:00 p.m. 17--H-1 Team Detroit vs. H-4 Mike Miller M33M, TN
9:30 p.m. 17--G-2 Petersburg Elite, VA vs. G-3 Worldwide Renegades, GA

N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY - REYNOLDS COLISEUM #2 - COURT #10
6:30 p.m. 17--N-1 Brandon Bass Elite, TX vs. N-4 Garner Road, NC
8:00 p.m. 17--K-1 Memphis Magic vs. K-4 Team Takeover Canada
9:30 p.m. 17--B-2 Ohio Bball Club vs. B-3 Hoop Planet, GA

N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY - DAIL CENTER COURT #11
6:30 p.m. 17--K-2 Jackson Tigers, MS vs. K-3 Georgia Hawks
8:00 p.m. 17--C-2 Squires Richmond, VA vs. C-3 Carolina Raptors, NC
9:30 p.m. 17--I-2 Dallas Heroes vs. I-3 Team Breakdown, FL

EAST CHAPEL HILL HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #12
6:30 p.m. 16--E-2 Westchester Hawks, NY vs. E-3 WI Playground Warriors
8:00 p.m. 16--B-1 Team Final, PA vs. B-4 WV WIldcats
9:30 p.m. 16--G-1 Grassroots Canada vs. G-4 Rich Soil, NY

CARRBORO HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #13
8:00 p.m. 16--D-2 Team Philly vs. D-3 Squires Richmond, VA
9:30 p.m. 16--E-1 Indiana Elite/ Team Indiana vs. E-4 NJ Roadrunners

HILLSIDE HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #14
8:00 P.M. 16--A-2 NEW HEIGHTS, NY VS. A-3 SYF PLAYERS, IN
9:30 P.M. 16--C-1 DC ASSAULT VS. C-4 RISING STARS JG, IL

RALEIGH CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #15
8:00 p.m. 17--M-2 Memphis Stallions vs. M-3 Mid State Magic, NC
9:30 p.m. 16--C-2 Boo Williams All-Stars, VA vs. C-3 Long Island Lightning, NY

RAVENSCROFT HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #16
8:00 p.m. 16--D-1 Carolina Flight, NC vs. D-4 Dallas Heroes
9:30 p.m. 16--H-1 Team United vs. H-4 Team KOBE, PA

SHAW UNIVERSITY -SPAULDING GYMNASIUM - COURT #17
00 p.m. 16--G-2 Ohio Bball Club vs. G-3 Showtime Ballers, FL
9:30 p.m. 16--B-2 Atlanta Celtics vs. B-3 Team Takeover Canada

ST. AUGUSTINE COLLEGE - EMERY GYNASIUM - COURT #18
8:00 p.m. 16--F-2 Carolina Raptors, NC vs. F-3 Texas Athletes
9:30 p.m. 17--N-2 Michigan Mustangs vs. N-3 Florida Rams

Important Note - Please call the tournament hotline at 919-843-3856 to report travel delays or any other problems.

SCHEDULE - SATURDAY, MAY 23, 2009
UNC-DEAN E. SMITH CENTER - COURT #1
8:30 a.m. 15--A-1 DC Assault vs. A-4 WV Wildcats
9:45 a.m. 16--A-3 SYF Players, IN vs. A-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ
11:00 a.m. 17--K-3 Georgia Hawks vs. K-1 Memphis Magic
12:15 p.m. 17--F-3 Westchester Hawks, NY vs. F-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ
2:15 p.m. 16--F-1 Syracuse Select, NY vs. F-2 Carolina Raptors, NC
3:30 p.m. 17-- E-1 New England Playaz vs. E-2 Hollis Price Elite, LA
4:45 p.m. 15--B-1 Atlanta Celtics vs. B-2 Grassroots Canada
6:00 p.m. 17--C-1 Grassroots Canada vs. C-2 Squires Richmond, VA
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #1- 16-Under National- Winners Pool A vs. Pool H
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool A vs. Pool P

UNC-DEAN SMITH CENTER - COURT #2 (Center court)
8:30 a.m. 15--C-1 Team Philly vs. C-4 NLP, IL
9:45 a.m. 16--D-3 Squires Richmond, VA vs. D-1 Carolina Flight, NC
11:00 a.m. 17--H-3 Carolina Cobras vs. H-1 Team Detroit
12:15 p.m. 17--D-3 NC Gaters Blue vs. D-1 DC Assault
2:15 p.m. 16--H-1 Team United, NC vs. H-2 Indiana Elite One
3:30 p.m. 17--I-1 New Heights, NY vs. I-2 Dallas Heroes
4:45 p.m. 15--F-1 Memphis YOMCA vs. F-2 Indiana Elite / Team Indiana
6:00 p.m. 17--L-3 Carolina Flight, NC vs. L-4 New York Panthers
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #4 -16-Under National- Winners Pool D vs. Pool E
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool D vs. Pool M

UNC-DEAN E. SMITH CENTER- COURT #3
8:30 a.m. 15--D-1 Dream Vision, CA vs. D-4 Team Melo, MD
9:45 a.m. 16--B-3 Team Takeover Canada vs. B-1 Team Final
11:00 a.m. 17--N-3 Florida Rams vs. N-1 Brandon Bass Elite, TX
12:15 p.m. 17--K-4 Team Takeover Canada vs. K-2 Jackson Tigers, MS
2:15 p.m. 16--G-1 Grassroots Canada vs. G-2 Ohio Basketball Club
3:30 p.m. 17--A-1 CP3 All-Stars, NC vs. A-2 Team Philly
4:45 p.m. 15--A-1 DC Assault vs. A-2 WI Playground Warriors
6:00 p.m. 17--G-1 Nike Team Florida vs. G-2 Petersburg Elite, VA
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #3 -16-Under National- Winners Pool C vs. Pool F
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool C vs. Pool N

COURT #4 - UNC PRACTICE FACILITY
8:30 a.m. 15--B-1 Atlanta Celtics vs. B-4 Charlotte Nets, NC
9:45 a.m. 16--F-3 Texas Athletes vs. F-1 Syracuse Select, NY
11:00 a.m. 17--L-3 Carolina Flight, NC vs. L-1 Jacksonville Lee Bulls, FL
12:15 p.m. 17--N-4 Garner Road, NC vs. N-2 Michigan Mustangs
2:15 p.m. 16--G-3 Showtime Ballers, FL vs. G-4 Rich Soil, NY
3:30 p.m. 17--M-1 Atlanta Celtics vs. M-2 Memphis Stallions
4:45 p.m. 15--G-1 New York Gauchos vs. G-2 CP3 All-Stars, NC
6:45 p.m. 17--G-3 Worldwide Renegades, GA vs. G-4 Los Angeles Rage
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #1 -16-Under Select- Second Place Pool A vs. Pool H
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool E vs. Pool L

DUKE UNIVERSITY - CAMERON INDOOR STADIUM- COURT #5
8:30 a.m. 15--A-2 WI Playground Warriors vs. A-3 Long Island Lightning, NY
9:45 a.m. 16--H-4 Team KOBE, PA vs. H-2 Indiana Elite One
11:00 a.m. 17--J-3 NJ Roadrunners vs. J-1 Team United, NC
12:15 p.m. 17--P-3 SYF Players, IN vs. P-1 Nashville Celtics, TN
1:30 p.m. 16--E-1 Indiana Elite / Team Indiana vs. E-2 Westchester Hawks, NY
2:45 p.m. 16--C-1 DC Assault vs. C-2 Boo Williams All-Stars, VA
4:00 p.m. 17--B-1 Team Final, PA vs. B-2 Ohio Bball Club
5:15 p.m. 15--D-1 Dream Vision, CA vs. D-2 Petersburg Elite, VA
6:30 p.m. 17--H-1 Team Detroit vs. H-2 Jackson MBA, MS
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #2 -16-Under National- Winners Pool B vs. Pool G
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool B vs. Pool O

DUKE UNIVERSITY - CARD GYM- COURT #6
8:30 a.m. 15--E-1 New Orleans Elite vs. E-4 KC Cowboy Players
9:45 a.m. 16--D-4 Dallas Heroes vs. D-2 Team Philly
11:00 a.m. 17--O-4 Carolina Crusaders, NC vs. O-2 Team T.M.P., SC
12:15 p.m. 17--A-4 Colorado Chaos vs. A-2 Team Philly
2:15 p.m. 15--H-3 Team Detroit vs. H-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ
3:30 p.m. 16--B-3 Team Takeover Canada vs. B-4 WV Wildcats
4:45 p.m. 15--D-3 Carolina Raptors vs. D-4 Team Melo, MD
6:00 p.m. 17--N-3 Florida Rams vs. N-4 Garner Road, NC
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinals #4 -16-Under Select- Second Place Pool D vs. Pool E
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool B vs. Pool O

DUKE UNIVERSITY - WILSON RECREATION CENTER - COURT #1
COURT #7
8:30 a.m. 15--F-1 Memphis YOMCA, TN vs. F-4 NC Gaters 2012
9:45 a.m. 16--B-4 WV Wildcats vs. B-2 Atlanta Celtics
11:00 a.m. 17--O-3 Juice All-Stars, NY vs. O-1 Team Odom West, CA
12:15 p.m. 17--H-4 Mike Miller M33M, TN vs. H-2 Jackson MBA, MS
2:15 p.m. 15--G-3 Eric Gordon Central S, IN vs. G-1 New York Gauchos
3:30 p.m. 16--C-3 Long Island Lightning, NY vs. C-4 Rising Stars JG, IL
4:45 p.m. 15--E-1 New Orleans Elite vs. E-2 Pennsylvania Playaz
6:00 p.m. 17--N-1 Brandon Bass Elite, TX vs. N-2 Michigan Mustangs
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinals #2 -16-Under Select- Second Place Pool B vs. Pool G
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool H vs. Pool I

DUKE UNIVERSITY - WILSON RECREATION CENTER - COURT #2
COURT #8
8:30 a.m. 15--H-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ vs. H-4 Team United, NC
9:45 a.m. 16--G-3 Showtime Ballers, FL vs. G-1 Grassroots Canada
11:00 a.m. 17--E-3 Eric Gordon Central S, IN vs. E-1 New England Playaz
12:15 p.m. 17--G-4 Los Angeles Rage vs. G-2 Petersburg Elite, VA
2:15 p.m. 15--G-4 Squires Richmond, VA vs. G-2 CP3 All-Stars, NC
3:30 p.m. 16--E-3 WI Playground Warriors vs. E-4 NJ Roadrunners
4:45 p.m. 15--C-1 Team Philly vs. C-2 Garner Road, NC
6:00 p.m. 17--I-3 Team Breakdown, FL vs. I-4 Rising Stars JG, IL
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinals #3 -16-Under Select- Second Place Pool C vs. Pool F
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool A vs. Pool P

N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY - REYNOLDS COLISEUM #1 - COURT #9
8:30 a.m. 15--F-2 Indiana Elite / Team Indiana vs. F-3 Syracuse Select, NY
9:45 a.m. 16--E-3 WI Playground Warriors vs. E-1 Indiana Elite / Team Indiana
11:00 a.m. 17--A-3 Illinois Wolves vs. A-1 CP3 All-Stars, NC
12:15 p.m. 17--M-3 mid State Magic, NC vs. M-1 Atlanta Celtics
1:30 p.m. 16--B-1 Team Final, PA vs. B-2 Atlanta Celtics
2:45 p.m. 16--A-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ vs. A-2 New Heights, NY
4:00 p.m. 17--F-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ vs. F-2 Florida Elite
5:15 p.m. 15--H-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ vs. H-2 Heart and Hustle, FL
6:30 p.m. 17--J-3 NJ Roadrunners vs. J-4 Net Gain Sports, MN
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinals #1 -15-Under National-Winners Pool A vs. Pool H
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool F vs. Pool K

N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY - REYNOLDS COLISEUM #2 - COURT #10
8:30 a.m. 15--B-2 Grassroots Canada vs. B-3 Carolina Hoyas, NC
9:45 a.m. 16--A-4 Team Detroit vs. A-2 New Heights, NY
11:00 a.m. 17--E-4 Bball Stars of America, PA vs. E-2 Hollis Price Elite, LA.
12:15 p.m. 15--A-4 WV Wildcats vs. A-2 WI Playground Warriors
2:15 p.m. 16--D-1 Carolina Flight, NC vs. D-2 Team Philly
3:30 p.m. 17--O-3 Juice All-Stars, NY vs. O-4 Carolina Crusaders, NC
4:45 p.m. 15--C-3 Boo Williams A-S, VA vs. C-4 NLP, IL
6:00 p.m. 17--J-1 Team United, NC vs. J-2 WI Playground Warriors
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #2 -15-Under National- Winners Pool B vs. Pool G
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool C vs. Pool N

N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY - DAIL CENTER COURT #11
8:30 a.m. 15--G-1 New York Gauchos vs. G-4 Squires Richmond, VA
9:45 a.m. 16--H-3 Nashville Celtics vs. H-1 Team United, NC
11:00 a.m. 17--B-3 Hoop Planet, GA vs. B-1 Team Final, PA
12:15 p.m. 17--D-4 Dallas Seawolves vs. D-2 So. Cal All-Stars
2:15 p.m. 16--D-3 Squires Richmond, VA vs. D-4 Dallas Heroes
3:30 p.m. 17--L-1 Jacksonville Lee Bulls, Fl vs. L-2 Houston Select
4:45 p.m. 15--E-3 Nashville Celtics vs. E-4 KC Cowboy Players, MO
6:00 p.m. 17--O-1 Team Odom West, CA vs. O-2 Team T.M.P., SC
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #3 -15-Under National- Winners Pool C vs. Pool F
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool G vs. Pool J

EAST CHAPEL HILL HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #12
8:30 a.m. 15--G-2 CP3 All-Stars, NC vs. G-3 Eric Gordon Central S, IN
9:45 a.m. 16--F-4 Team Phenom, PA vs. F-2 Carolina Raptors, NC
11:00 a.m. 17--L-4 New York Panthers vs. L-2 Houston Select
12:15 p.m. 15--A-3 Long Island Lightning, NY vs. A-1 DC Assault
2:15 p.m. 15--H-4 Team United, NC vs. H-2 Heart and Hustle, FL
3:30 p.m. 16--A-3 SYF Players, IN vs. A-4 Team Detroit
4:45 p.m. 15--F-3 Syracuse Select, NY vs. F-4 NC Gaters 2012
6:00 p.m. 17--K-1 Memphis Magic vs. K-2 Jackson Tigers, MS
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #4 -15-Under National- Winners Pool D vs. Pool E
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool D vs. Pool M

CARRBORO HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #13
8:30 a.m. 15--H-2 Heart and Hustle, FL vs. H-3 Team Detroit
9:45 a.m. 16--C-4 Rising Stars JG, IL vs. C-2 Boo Williams A-S, VA
11:00 a.m. 17--C-3 Carolina Raptors, NC vs. C-1 Grassroots Canada
12:15 p.m. 15--B-3 Carolina Hoyas, NC vs. B-1 Atlanta Celtics
2:15 p.m. 15--E-4 KC Cowboy Players, MO vs. E-2 Pennsylvania Playaz
3:30 p.m. 17--H-3 Carolina Cobras, NC vs. H-4 Mike Miller M33M, TN
4:45 p.m. 15--A-3 Long Island Lightning, NY vs. A-4 WV Wildcats
6:00 p.m. 17--P-1 Nashville Celtics vs. P-2 NC Force
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #1 -15-Under Select- Second Place Pool A vs. Pool H
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool E vs. Pool L

HILLSIDE HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #14
8:30 a.m. NO GAME SCHEDULED
9:45 a.m. 16--E-4 NJ Roadrunners vs. E-2 Westchester Hawks, NY
11:00 a.m. 17--C-4 Team Truth, GA vs. C-2 Squires Richmond, VA
12:15 p.m. 15--C-3 Boo Williams A-S, VA vs. C-1 Team Philly
2 :15 p.m. 15--D-4 Team Melo, MD vs. D-2 Petersburg Elite, VA
3 :30 p.m. 16--F-3 Texas Athletes vs. F-4 Team Phenom, PA
4:45 p.m. 15--B-3 Carolina Hoyas, NC vs. B-4 Charlotte Nets, NC
6:00 p.m. 17--B-3 Hoop Planet, GA vs. B-4 Michigan Hurricanes
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #4 -15-Under Select- Second Place Pool D vs. Pool E

RALEIGH CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #15
8:30 a.m. 15--E-2 Pennsylvania Playaz vs. E-3 Nashville Celtics
9:45 a.m. 16--G-4 Rich Soil, NY vs. G-2 Ohio Bball Club
11:00 a.m. 17--I-4 Rising Stars JG, IL vs. I-2 Dallas Heroes
12:15 p.m. 15--D-3 Carolina Raptors, NC vs. D-1 Dream Vision, CA
2:15 p.m. 15--B-4 Charlotte Nets, NC vs. B-2 Grassroots Canada
3:30 p.m. 16--H-3 Nashville Celtics vs. H-4 Team KOBE, PA
4:45 p.m. 15--G-3 Eric Gordon Central S. vs. G-4 Squires Richmond, VA
6:00 p.m. 17--P-3 SYF Players, IN vs. P-4 Houston Clippers
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #2 -15-Under Select- Second Place Pool B vs. Pool G

RAVENSCROFT HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #16
8:30 a.m. NO GAME SCHEDULED
9:45 a.m. 16--C-3 Long Island Lightning, NY vs. C-1 DC Assault
11:00 a.m. 17--G-3 Worldwide Renegades, GA vs. G-1 Nike Team Florida
12:15 p.m. 15--E-3 Nashville Celtics vs. E-1 New Orleans Elite
2:15 p.m. 15--F-3 Syracuse Select, NY vs. F-1 Memphis YOMCA, TN
3:30 p.m. 17--K-3 Georgia Hawks vs. K-4 Team Takeover Canada
4:45 p.m. 15--H-3 Team Detroit vs. H-4 Team United, NC
6:00 p.m. 17--M-3 Mid State Magic, NC vs. M-4 Baltimore Stars
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #3 -15-Under Select- Second Place Pool C vs. Pool F
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool F vs. Pool K

SHAW UNIVERSITY -SPAULDING GYMNASIUM - COURT #17
8:30 a.m. 15--D-2 Petersburg Elite, VA vs. D-3 Carolina Raptors, NC
9:45 a.m. 17--P-4 Houston Clippers vs. P-2 NC Force
11:00 a.m. 17--M-4 Baltimore Stars, MD vs. M-2 Memphis Stallions, TN
12:15 p.m. 17--I-3 Team Breakdown, FL vs. I-1 New Heights, NY
2:15 p.m. 15--C-4 NLP, IL vs. C-2 Garner Road, NC
3:30 p.m. 17--F-3 Westchester Hawks, NY vs. F-4 Team UBA, NC
4:45 p.m 17--D-1 DC Assault vs. D-2 So. Cal All-Stars
6:00 p.m. 17--A-3 Illinois Wolves vs. A-4 Colorado Chaos
8:00 p.m. NO GAME SCHEDULED
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool G vs. Pool J

ORANGE HIGH SCHOOL, HILLSBOROUGH, NC - COURT #18
8:30 a.m. 15--C-2 Garner Road, NC vs. C-3 Boo Williams A-S, VA
9:45 a.m. 17--F-4 Team UBA, NC vs. F-2 Florida Elite
11:00 a.m. 17--B-4 Michigan Hurricanes vs. B-2 Ohio Bball Club
12:15 p.m. 17--J-4 Net Gain Sports, MN vs. J-2 WI Playground Warriors
2:15 p.m. 15--F-4 NC Gaters 2012 vs. F-2 Indiana Elite / Team Indiana
3:30 p.m. 17--E-3 Eric Gordon Central S., IN vs. E-4 Bball Stars of America, PA
4:45 p.m. 17--D-3 NC Gaters Blue vs. D-4 Dallas Seawolves
6:00 p.m. 17--C-3 Carolina Raptors, NC vs. C4 Team Truth, GA
8:00 p.m. NO GAME SCHEDULED
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool H vs. Pool I

SCHEDULE - SUNDAY, MAY 24, 2009

TOURNAMENT PLAYOFFS and CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES
UNC-DEAN E. SMITH CENTER - COURT #1
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal #1- 17-Under National Playoff Winner A/P vs. Winner H/I
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 16-Under National -Winners Quarterfinal #1 vs. #4
12:00 p.m. Semifinal 17-Under National- Winners Quarterfinal #1 vs. #4
2:30 p.m. Championship 15-Under National Tournament
4:00 p.m. Championship 17-Under national Tournament
5:30 p.m. Awards Presentation and All-Tournament Selections

UNC-DEAN E. SMITH CENTER- COURT #2 (CENTER)
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal #4-17-Under National Playoff Winner D/M vs. Winner E/L
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 16-Under Select - Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3
12:00 p.m. Semifinal 17-Under Select - Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3
2:30 p.m. Championship 15-Under Select Tournment
4:00 p.m. Championship 16-Under National Tournament

UNC-DEAN E. SMITH CENTER- COURT #3
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal #3-17-Under National- Playoff Winner C/N vs. Winner F/K
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 16-Under Select - Winners Quarterfinal #1 vs. #4
12:00 p.m. Semifinal 17- Under Select- Winners Quarterfinal #1 vs. #4
2:30 p.m. Championship 16-Under Select Tournament
4:00 p.m. Championship 17-Under Select Tournament

UNC-DEAN E. SMITH CENTER- COURT #4 - UNC PRACTICE FACILITY
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal #1-17-Under Select Playoff Winners A/P vs. H/I
10:30 a.m Semifinal 15-Under National- Winners Quarterfinal #1 vs. #4

DUKE UNIVERSITY - CAMERON INDOOR STADIUM- COURT #5
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal #2-17-Under National- Playoff Winners B/O vs. G/J
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 16-Under National-Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3
12:00 p.m. Semifinal 17-Under National- Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3

DUKE UNIVERSITY - CARD GYM -COURT #6
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal #4- 17-Under Select- Winner D/M vs. E/L
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 15-Under Select- Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3

DUKE UNIVERSITY - WILSON REC CENTER #1-COURT #7
9:00 a.m Quarterfinal #2- 17-Under Select- Winner Pool B/O vs.G/J
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 15-Under National- Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3

DUKE UNIVERSITY - WILSON REC CENTER #2-COURT #8
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal # 3 -17-Under Select- Playoff Winner C/N vs. Winner F/K
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 15-Under Select- Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3

Wall is a Wildcat

w2-150x150As you know by now, John Wall selected Kentucky as his college destination. There is little else to do than move on for Duke and they will move on. Duke will now turn their sole attention to other prospects and will hit the road hard in July when coaches are allowed at AAU events. I have decided to discuss the details of Walls decision on our premium message board. There you will hear a little bit about what went on behind the scenes leading up to the decision and some candid comments about the process.  Wall will sign his LOI on Wednesday.

BDN is covering the Tournament of Champions this weekend and many more tournaments, so stay tuned for plenty of action.

Also, check out our new links section in the menu above. I feel you will like the way Susan set them up.

BDN Premium talks recruiting with D.C. Assault and DeMatha PG Quinn Cook

Blue Devil Nation Premium brings you an interview with prospect Quinn Cook.  The DeMatha product is a pure PG who is comfortable with the basketball in his hands.

Quinn Cook - BDN Photo
Quinn Cook - BDN Photo

He was a man among boys on his team during the recent Southern Jam Fest scoring in the mid twenties in almost every outing.  He has a good handle and advanced offensive skills, but still needs work on his on ball defense.  This kid stood out in the crowd and after viewing him in six games now, I feel it safe to say that he will be one of the top 25 players in his class of 2011.

You  guys lost a tough championship game on a buzzer beater, what do you do to bounce back from that?

I mean, the good thing about basketball is that you have more games to play and this loss has to be put in perspective.  Next time we just have to make sure all their guys are checked.

How do you feel about your play in the Hoop Group Southern Jamfest?  Most observers have to see you as all tournament team.

I felt [private]  pretty good, but I think I could have done a lot more better.

What would you like to improve upon before entering college?

My foot speed. If I get that, I'll be ready.

You are coming back from an injury, is that mending well now?

Yeah, yeah, it's healing well.  Today is actually the day I sustained the injury last year.

Are you getting serious about the recruiting process?

Yeah, I take it one day at a time getting advice from my elders and mentors, my coaches and Mother.  After this school year I'm really getting into it.

Are you hearing from a lot of schools?

Yeah.  Indiana, Ohio State, North Carolina, Georgetown, N.C. State, Florida, a few schools.

Did you have a dream school growing up?

North Carolina and Michael Jordan.

You played for DeMatha and  weren't exactly in the shadow of Josh Selby last season, but what will it be like to be on your own this coming year?

It's going to be tough, but my coaches and team are prepared for another big year.  We are just working hard in the gym and pushing each other.

Are you still open with the recruiting process or open to other schools coming in?

Yeah.  I'm interested in anyone who is interested in me.

Did you grow up pulling for any particular conference?

I was always an ACC guy because Maryland is right down the street and Duke.  My Godbrother goes to Duke so, I was always a big ACC guy.

Now your God Brother is ...

Nolan Smith.

Growing up a Carolina fan, is Duke somewhere you would consider playing for them should they offer?

I mean, I respect ... my favorite coach is Coach K.  The way he could transition over and lead the USA to a Gold medal.  The way he leads his team, I have respect for Coach K and if they started recruiting me, I would be very proud.

It seems like you would be playing with the older DC Assault team, but with Tyler Thornton and Eric Adkins there, I suppose there is an overload of guards in the system.

I used to play with them because I have never had an age group.  I played with the older guys growing up but they formed another team and I play with Chris Martin.

You seem very confident with the ball in your hands.  What are you thinking out there?  Are you looking for your shot or just to make a play?

I'm a pass first point guard and ...

Now, you might have to convince a few people of that.  I mean you averaged 24 ppg in this tournament and seemed really comfortable on the offensive end.

Out here, I have to score but for DeMatha I get everybody involved.

And the ideal situation in college for you would be?

To go where I could fit in and make an impact as a freshman.

You're still a a very young man, but is there a timeline in your mind with concern to the process?

No, there is no rush.  I will just have to sit down with my AAU coach and my Mother and we'll make a decision.

Now who is this on your t-shirt?

That's my Dad.

Now wait a minute, it's Mothers Day ...

(smiling as his Dad walks up and says, you're giving me a shout out to the people) Yeah, my Mom is here too.

Good luck on the rest of the year.

Thank You. [/private]

Coach K adds book signing dates in Greensboro and Raleigh

BDN Photo
BDN Photo

DURHAM, N.C. - Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski, along with co-author Jamie K. Spatola, have added two additional local signings to book tour for THE GOLD STANDARD: Building a World-Class Team. Krzyzewski and Spatola will be at the Barnes & Noble (Friendly Center) in Greenboro, N.C. on Wednesday, May 20 and at Quail Ridge Books and Music in Raleigh, N.C. on Wednesday, June 10.

THE GOLD STANDARD: Building a World-Class Team (Business Plus; April 6, 2009; $25.99; Hardcover) is Coach K's guide to team building, illustrated with experiences from his three years coaching the team that would ultimately win Olympic gold. You'll see how he formed relationships with LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, Jason Kidd, Dwayne Wade, and the rest of Team USA's NBA stars and how they established a set of standards to guide their performance, both on and off the court.

THE GOLD STANDARD is divided into the key times and moments of Coach K's work with Team USA with each chapter dedicated to a particular lesson and insight into teambuilding.  Covering a wide range of issues applicable to leading any businesses, organization, or group, Krzyzewski discusses how he helped build Team USA by establishing standards, creating a common language, cultivating leadership, forming relationships, motivating and inspiring players, and by maintaining his perspective and charting his own progress as a leader.
Along the way, Coach K also discusses how he came to appreciate this formidable challenge and he reveals the secrets that led the 2008 U.S. Olympic team to victory. And in the end, you'll witness the rewards of team building-including the tremendous triumph people feel when they truly become part of something bigger than themselves.
"My proudest times as a coach are those when I recognize that a group of players has become a team, a whole that is truly greater than the sum of its parts," Krzyzewski writes. "From the summer of 2006 through the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, I had the opportunity to work with a group whose parts were some of the most talented basketball players in the game.  And I had the privilege of being their coach as this amazing team came together to bring the gold medal back to the United States."

Wednesday, May 20
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Barnes & Noble
Friendly Center
3102 Northline Avenue
Greensboro, NC 27408
(336) 854-4200
Wednesday, June 10
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Quail Ridge Books & Music
3522 Wade Ave
Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 828-1588