Let’s Talk Some Hoops

July 29, 2010

Hood Stands Out at AAU Nationals

by: Brian Snow
Special to Rivals.com Basketball Recruiting

ORLANDO, Fla. - It is getting very late into the second July evaluation period, and that means that the players are beginning to get worn down. With that there is a 
lot of mediocre basketball, but Rodney Hood showed no signs of tailing off in his play and came up big on Wednesday.

Hood shows off the skills

MBA Hoops Elite is a team that has a chance to go a long way down in Orlando, and the play of wing Rodney Hood will probably determine how far they advance. Hood is a very skilled 
6-foot-7 player who is unique and difficult to defend when he has it working. Hood did have it going on Wednesday for MBA Hoops Elite, and he carried them to a win in the second half.
After a fairly quite first half, Hood decided to take over, and he did it using his mid-range game.

A super smooth player, Hood is able to get by his defender, and from there he has a unique ability to score in the mid-range. In an era where the mid-range game is a lost art, 
Hood has a two dribble pull-up jumper that is absolutely pure. He hit several of those jumpers from 15-17 feet in the half, and just proved to be able to get where he wants whenever
he wants on the basketball floor.

Along with being able to knock down the mid-range shot, Hood also attacked the rim off the bounce, and used his athleticism and length to score inside. Mostly a perimeter player, Hood 
has a skill set that most prospects his size don't possess, and when it is all clicking for him he is one of the best in the country.

Complementing Hood was Deville Smith and LaQuinton Ross. Smith is a jet of a point guard who really knows how to break his man down off the bounce. He didn't have his most productive 
game, but Smith is super quick, got into the lane, and then did a solid job of creating from there. His jumper could still use some work, but Smith did show that unique burst with the 
ball that not many prospects possess.

When it comes to Ross, he is just so fluid at 6-foot-7. A super skilled prospect, Ross hit a few jumpers from the perimeter and also showed an ability to handle the basketball to help 
create for himself. Ross isn't an elite prospect because his motor is still lacking, but the skill level with his length and size is very interesting if he does indeed learn to bring it 
on every possession as he gets older.

The MBA Hoops Elite wing tandem of LaQuinton Ross and Rodney Hood drew a nice crowd of coaches. Among those checking them out were Marquette's Buzz Williams, Florida State's Leonard Hamilton,
Paul Hewitt of Georgia Tech, John Thompson from Georgetown, Alabama's Anthony Grant and Arkansas' John Pelphrey. There were also assistants from Mississippi State, Ohio State and Louisville 
amongst the crowd. Missouri State head coach Cuonzo Martin was at the MBA game as well, but he was checking on under utilized big man Derrell Robertson.


June 24, 2010

Pistons Take Terrico White In NBA Draft 

by: University of Mississippi 

NEW YORK - Ole Miss star  Terrico White, who declared for the draft after his sophomore season, was selected by the Detroit Pistons in the second round 
(36th overall pick) of the 2010 NBA Draft on Thursday night. The 6-foot-5, 213-pound athlete with tremendous leaping ability is the first Rebel to be drafted 
since 2004, when Justin Reed went in the second round (40th overall) to the Boston Celtics. 

"I'm just happy to be chosen," White said. "I'm going to come in and work extremely hard. I think I fit in good with (the Pistons)." In two seasons with the 
Rebels, the Memphis native scored 955 career points and averaged 14.5 points and 4.0 rebounds per game. In his debut season, he earned SEC Freshman of the Year
and Freshman All-America honors when he took over point guard duties for the injured Chris Warren league play and posted 18.4 points per SEC game.

This past season, White averaged 15.1 points and 4.6 rebounds per game and helped the Rebels win the Southeastern Conference Western Division title and advance 
to the NIT Final Four at Madison Square Garden. White spent the summer of 2009 with Team USA, helping the Americans to a gold medal at the FIBA U19 World 
Championships in New Zealand. 

He is the fourth-highest draft pick in Ole Miss history behind Gerald Glass (20th overall, 1990), John Stroud (27th, 1980) and Ansu Sesay (30th, 1998).  Possessing 
a gift for scoring from outside and the athleticism to fly high to the rim, White ranks 10th in Ole Miss history with 123 career 3-pointers and boasted the best 
vertical jump (40 inches) of any player in last month's pre-draft combine.


June 24, 2010

Miami Selects Varnado With 41st Pick In 2010 NBA Draft

by: mstateathletics.com

STARKVILLE, Miss. - Thursday night in front of a nationally-televised ESPN audience, Jarvis Varnado became the 23rd Mississippi State player in school history drafted 
by an NBA team when the  Miami Heat selected the 6-foot-9 forward from Brownsville, Tenn., in the second round with the 41st overall pick. He's the first MSU player 
drafted since 2005 when Seattle took Lawrence Roberts with the 55th pick. Varnado is also the 5th Bulldog player drafted with Rick Stansbury at the helm.

"It's a dream come true," said Varnado, who was in Jackson, Tenn., watching the draft with friends and family. "This is what you work hard for. Now, I've just got to go
prove myself. I was a little nervous and stressed, but going to Miami is a great opportunity. They've had a lot of success and have some great players. Hopefully, I can 
go there and help them win a championship."

This past year as a senior, Varnado became the 31st player in Mississippi State history to score 1,000 points en route to leading the Bulldogs to the Western Division 
crown and the finals of the SEC Tournament in Nashville for the second-straight year. He led MSU in scoring (13.8), was tops in the Southeastern Conference with 10.3 
rebounds an outing and posted 18 double-doubles while garnering All-SEC honors. He was also tabbed the league's defensive player of the year for the third-straight season,
becoming the first player in SEC history to achieve that feat, and won the same honor numerous times on the national level.

For his highly decorated career, Varnado finished 13th all-time with 1,403 points, while his 1,096 rebounds are second only to the 1,277 Bailey Howell grabbed from 1957-59.
He also started a school-record 119 games. Yet, he'll be remembered most for his shot blocking ability. 

Against rival Alabama on Feb. 24 at Humphrey Coliseum, he became the NCAA's career leader, breaking the mark of 535 set by former Louisiana-Monroe standout Wojciech Myrda. 
He finished with 564 after swatting 170 this past season, which tied the SEC single-season record he set as a junior.

And in doing so, he became the first player in the history of college basketball to score 1,000 points, total 1,000 rebounds and block 500 shots.

"Congrats to Jarvis. Obviously, we're very proud of him," Stansbury said. "He's worked very hard to get to this level. It's quite an accomplishment for a young man to get to 
this point from where he came from, where he was basically unknown coming out of high school. To be able to play in the NBA is very special. He got selected by a great 
organization that's used to winning. Not only is Miami getting a great player, they're getting a great person too. He'll fit in well down there, and he'll be a great asset in 
the community. It will be a great city for Jarvis to live in."


June 1, 2010

JSU 2010 Men's Basketball Camp

by JSU Office of Athletic Media Relations

The Jackson State men's basketball team will host a summer clinic and a camp this summer at the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center. The free clinic
is set for Saturday, June 12 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. The 2010 JSU Basketball Camp is set for Monday, June 14 through Thursday, June 17. The cost for the camp is $100.
Camp activities include: offensive and defensive drills, dribbling fundamentals, and offensive and defensive set plays. Campers will also receive prizes. For more
information contact the JSU men's basketball secretary at (601) 979-2314, coach Wright Bushing at (601) 979-2421 or coach Julian Springer at (601) 979-2359. 


May 26, 2010

Mississippi Players Makes Rivals Top 150

by LeMond Roy 
msboyshoops.com Basketball Analyst 

Jerry Meyer recently released the updated ranking for the class of 2011.  I’ve been screaming that the Magnolia State class of 2011 was one the tops in the country.  
After the spring circuit, the Magnolia State has 7 kids ranked in the top 150 and at least 2 others that were close to cracking the ranking.  Here’s how our 
Mississippians fared:

#24   -  Johnny O’Bryant   Cleveland, MS  (Eastside HS)
#43   -  LaQuinton Ross   Burlington, NJ  (Life Center Academy)
#48   -  Deville Smith   Jackson, MS  (Callaway HS)
#49   -  David Gardner  Okolona, MS  (Okolona HS)
#67   -  Tyler Adams  Brandon, MS  (Brandon HS)
#72   -  LeAntwan Luckett  Ridgeland, MS  (Ridgeland HS)
#100  –  Rodney Hood  Meridian, MS  (Meridian HS)
 

May 24, 2010

Updated Basketball Signings List

...The NCAA's month-long spring signing period ended Wednesday. Here's an update on where Mississippi's top seniors are headed next season (listed alphabetically).
(* — indicates C-L All-State pick)

Class of 2010
*Daron Bell, Bay, 6-3 — undecided
Antonnio Benton, Oak Grove, 6-7 — Southeastern Louisiana
Lacoltan Bester, Kemper County, 6-3 — East Mississippi CC
Brandon Blake, Oxford, 6-3 — Spring Hill
Danny Bolden, Greenville-Weston, 6-3 — Mississsppi Delta CC
Johnathan Brandon, New Hope, 6-1 — Shelton State (Ala.) CC
Jimmie Broomfield, Scott Central, 6-1 — East Central CC
Zach Carnell, Ingomar, 6-7 — Delta State
Jurmond Cattenhead, Wingfield, 6-0 — undecided
Nicholas Cook, Hattiesburg, 6-5 — Jacksonville State
*Jalen Courtney, Provine, 6-7 — LSU
*Demarco Cox, Yazoo City, 6-8 — Ole Miss
Jeremiah Dunnings, Biloxi, 5-10 — Mississippi Gulf Coast CC
D.J. Evans, Brandon, 5-8 — undecided
Lakendrick Evans, O'Bannon, 6-5 — undecided
Jermille Fluker, Long Beach, 6-0 — Dillard
Josh Green, Pontotoc, 6-3 — Henderson State
Marcelis Hansberry, Provine, 6-0 — Louisiana-Monroe
Desmond Haymon, Williams-Sullivan — Stephen F. Austin
Kelsey Howard, Vicksburg, 6-4 — Jackson State
*Trency Jackson, Wingfield, 6-2 — Southern Miss
DeMarcus Lewis, Canton, 6-3 — Holmes CC
Patrick Lewis, McAdams, 5-8 — undecided
LaVadius Lyles, Forest, 5-9 — Northwestern State, La. (football)
Tevin Moore, Olive Branch, 6-3 — Northwest Mississippi CC
*Dundrecous Nelson, Murrah, 5-11 — Ole Miss
Jeverik Nelson, Callaway, 6-7 — Tennessee-Martin
Kevin Nixon, Heidelberg, 6-3 — Jones JC
Guy Payne, Biloxi, 6-5 — Alcorn State
*Rashad Perkins, Starkville, 6-5 — Southern Miss
Mopo Pierre, Piney Woods, 6-6 — Tennessee-Martin
DeAngelo Priar, S.V. Marshall, 6-2 — Meridian CC
Willie Readus, Morton, 6-6 — Marion Military JC, Ala.
Jake Reed, Brookhaven Academy, 6-3 — Copiah-Lincoln CC
Jeffery Simmons, Greenwood, 6-3 — Middle Tennessee State
Keeslee Stewart, Hinds AHS, 5-8 — Jackson State
Scottie Stirling, Provine, 5-10 — Jackson State
*Andre Stringer, Forest Hill, 5-9 — LSU
Trevis Thomas, Hinds AHS, 6-3 — Hinds CC
*Edward Townsel, Starkville, 6-0 — Arkansas State
Cord Walker, West Bolivar, 5-9 — undecided
Darius Woods, Horn Lake, 5-7 — Northwest Mississippi CC


May 7, 2010

Class of 2011 Takes Center Stage

by Lavel Johnson
MagnoliaPreps.com Basketball Analyst

The Magnolia State hoops class of 2011 takes center stage this weekend with the playing of the Mississippi AAU 17 & under State Tournament at Northwest Rankin High School in Flowood. 
Most of the top players in the class of 2011 will be in attendance as well as a number of 2012 studs. Play begins on Friday night and continues Saturday and Sunday. The 14 & under 
State Tournament is also being played along with the 17's this weekend at the same venue.

Players expected to participate include:

Class of 2011

Laquinton Ross(Jackson) 6'9" WF MBA Hoops Elite

Rodney Hood (Meridian) 6'8" WF MBA Hoops Elite

Deville Smith (Callaway) 5'11" PG MBA Hoops Elite

Johnny O'Bryant (Cleveland Eastide) 6'8" PF Jackson Tigers

Tyler Adams (Brandon) 6'9" C Jackson Tigers

Michael Ammons (Vicksburg) 6'6" WF Jackson Tigers

LeAntwan Luckett (Ridgeland) 6'4" WG MS D1 Ambassadors

David Gardner(Okolona) 6'7" WF "Da House" Lighthouse

Xavian Rimmer (Piney Woods) 6'2" PG Jackson Panthers

Jarvis Summers (Provine) 6'2" PG Jackson Tigers

Ladarius White (McComb) 6'5" WG Jackson Tigers

Derrell Robertson (Mendenhall) 6'8" C MBA Hoops Elite

Kentwan Smith (Piney Woods) 6'7" PF Jackson Panthers

Davon Hayes (Greenville) 6'5" WG Jackson Panthers

Acie Vance (Ripley) 6'2" PG "Da House" Lighthouse

Octavious Brown (Brandon) 6'7" PF Jackson Tigers

Sidney Coleman (Meridian) 6'6" PF MBA Hoops Elite

Donovan Ross (Ridgeland) 6'6" PF MS D1 Ambassadors

Quinton Watkins (Lanier) 6'0" PG Jackson Panthers

Greg Riley (Murrah) 5'9" PG Jackson Panthers

Darius Forest (Wingfield) 6'6" WF Jackson Tigers

Deonta Ewing (Corinth) 6'1" WG "Da House" Lighthouse

Devin Cherry (Meridian) 6'2" WG Southern Phenoms 17'S

Fredrick Fairman (Brookhaven) 6'8" C Jackson Panthers

Christian Robbins (Columbia Academy) 6'10" C MBA Hoops Elite

Ernest Williams (Aberdeen) 6'6" PF "Da House" Lighthouse

Sharod Smith(Meridian) 6'4" WF Southern Phenoms 17's

Kevin Welch (Terry) 6'6" WF MBA Hoops Elite

Alex Thompson(Lanier) 6'3" WG MBA Hoops Elite

Daniel Francis (Murrah) 6'3" WF MS D1 Ambassadors

Deonta Herman (Corinth) 5'11" PG "Da House" Lighthouse

Jarren Mallory(Provine) 6'2" WG MS D1 Ambassadors

Yvan Ngirabakunzi(Piney Woods) 6'9" PF Jackson Panthers


Class of 2012

Devonta Pollard (Kemper County) 6'8" PF Southern Phenoms 16's

Gavin Ware (Starkville) 6'8" C Southern Phenoms 16's

Jacolby Mobley (Starkville) 5'11" PG Jackson Tigers

Roger Woods (Provine) 6'4" WF Jackson Tigers

Fred Thomas (Jim Hill) 6'4" WG Southern Phenoms 16's

Quentarious Porter (Forest Hill) 6'5" WF MS D1 Ambassadors

Raeford Worsham (Wayne County) 6'4" WF Southern Phenoms 16's

Jordan Wyke(Marshall Academy) 5'10" WG "Da House" Lighthouse

Chris Bilbo (Forest Hill) 6'1" PG Southern Phenoms 16's

McDarion Abron (Canton) 6'9" C MS D1 Ambassadors


Class of 2013

TreShawn Bolden(Callaway) 6'8" PF MBA Hoops Elite

Derek Scott(Forest) 6'6" PF Jackson Tigers


Pools and Schedule

Pool A
Jackson Tigers
MBA Hoops Elite
Monroe Tigers

Pool B
Jackson Panthers
MS D1 Ambassadors
Phenoms 16's

Pool C
Phenoms 17's
"Da House" Lighthouse
Mississippi Blues

Friday

7:00 PM MS D1 Ambassadors vs Phenoms 16's

8:00 PM Jackson Tigers vs Monroe Tigers

10:00 PM Phenoms 17's vs "Da House" Lighthouse

Saturday

9:00 AM Monroe Tigers vs MBA Hoops Elite

10:00 AM Jackson Panthers vs MS D1 Ambassadors

12:00 PM MBA Hoops Elite vs Jackson Tigers

1:00 PM "Da House" Lighthouse vs Mississippi Blues

3:00 PM Phenoms 16's vs Jackson Panthers

4:00 PM Mississippi Blues vs Phenoms 17's

Single elimination Bracket play begins at 7:00 PM Saturday


May 13, 2010

Gamecock Basketball Adds Cook To Signing Class

JACKSONVILLE, AL – The Jacksonville State men’s basketball team has added Mississippi prep star Nicholas Cook to its 2010-11 roster, head coach James Green announced on Wednesday.
Cook, a 6-foot-5 player from Hattiesburg High School in Hattiesburg, Miss., signed a National Letter of Intent to join the Gamecocks earlier in the week, making him the fourth signee in 
the late period for Green. Cook joins prep signees Franki Baugher and Brian Williams and junior college guard Leke Lewu as the newest members of the Gamecock program.

“We are excited to welcome Nick to our basketball family,” Green said. “We think he possesses the characteristics that we look for in our student-athletes, and adding him to our freshman 
class represents a strong foundation for Jacksonville State basketball.”

Cook stood out as a senior for the Tigers as a senior in 2009-10. He led the team with 16 points and eight rebounds per game, while also blocking a team-best two shots per contest. He was 
a first team all-district player and was also ranked the No. 13 senior in the state of Mississippi by Scout.com. He scored in double figures in all but one game as a senior, including a 
season-high 31 points against Petal High School on Nov. 19, a game in which he also grabbed 12 boards. 


May 6, 2010

Nelson becomes seventh Skyhawk Men's Basketball Signee for 2010-11 

MARTIN, Tenn. - Jeverik Nelson, a 6-8 210-pound forward out of Callaway High School in Jackson, Miss., has signed a National Letter of Intent to join The University of Tennessee 
at Martin men's basketball program, head coach Jason James has announced. 

ESPN.com has Nelson ranked as the 76th best power forward prospect in the nation (fourth best in the state of Mississippi), mentioning "athletically, he could play anywhere in America." 
Known as one of the Mississippi's most electrifying leapers, national college basketball recruiting guru Clark Francis has Nelson rated at No. 262 on his Hoop Scoop's ranking of the top
high school seniors. As a senior at CHS, Nelson led the Chargers to a 23-11 record and final ranking of No. 5 in the state of Mississippi. Playing for head coach Wayne Brent, he was chosen 
to represent Mississippi in the Alabama/Mississippi All-Star Game, scoring 10 points (on five dunks) and grabbing six rebounds in 18 minutes in a 112-88 victory. In that game, he played 
against fellow UT Martin Class of 2010 signee Terence Smith. 

This season, Nelson averaged 11 points and seven rebounds per game while leading CHS to a 34-32 victory over Provine in the Class 5A state championship game. In the semifinals of the Grand 
Slam tournament against Forest, he put up a line of 22 points and seven rebounds to lead CHS advance to its third Grand Slam championship appearance in his four years there (winning back-to-back
Gold Ball state championship trophies). 

Coach James on Nelson: "Jeverik is an exceptional basketball player. He can shoot the ball from the perimeter, and he can also drive it to score. He scores in the post and in transition and his 
athleticism allows him to be a great rebounder on both ends of the floor. He has all of the tools needed to be successful. Our offensive system requires guys who can play a number of different 
positions on the floor and Jeverik fits into this mold - he is very versatile. I think the thing that is most apparent with Jeverik is his effort - he plays hard every second he is on the floor. 
It is obvious that he wants to be a great player because he works hard at it. When you have someone with his physical gifts who has the desire to be good like he does, you have a special player. 
He has a chance to be a great player in this league." 

Nelson on UT Martin: "I'm very excited about becoming a part of the Skyhawk family. I chose UT Martin because I really felt at home with the players and coaching staff. Their style 
of play fits my skill set and the way I like to play. UT Martin has great equipment and facilities and they measure up to my career choice academically."  "I'm very excited about becoming a part of the 
Skyhawk family. I chose UT Martin because I really felt at home with the players and coaching staff. Their style of play fits my skill set and the way I like to play. UT Martin has great equipment and 
facilities and they measure up to my career choice academically." 

Nelson joins a stellar 2010 signing class, as he is the seventh player to commit to the Skyhawk men's basketball program. Also signing earlier this month were Troy King (Gaithersburg, Md.), 
Chris Richardson (Birmingham, Ala.), Mike Liabo (Naples, Fla.), Omari Minor (Troy, Va.), Mopo Pierre (Pearl, Miss.) and Smith (Russellville, Ala.). 


April 30, 2010

Deville Smith Commits to Mississippi State

by Logan Lowery
BulldogBlitz.com

Mississippi State picked up their first commitment of the coveted 2011 recruiting class out of the Magnolia State when Callaway four-star point guard Deville Smith announced his 
decision late Friday night. The 5-foot-10, 160-pounder averaged 23.1 points, 3.9 steals and 3.6 assists per game. He earned first team, All-State honors as well as a preseason Dandy 
Dozen selection by The Clarion Ledger.

"I just committed to Mississippi State," Smith wrote in a text to BulldogBlitz.com at 10:51 p.m. Friday night. Smith chose the Bulldogs over offers from Alabama, Arkansas, Baylor, 
Memphis, Mississippi State, Southern Miss, USC and Wake Forest. Smith led the Chargers to the Class 5A State Championship this past season burying the game-winning shot with 1.2 seconds 
left on the clock from just inside the free-throw line lifting Callaway 34-32 over Provine for their second straight title.

"I love those types of moments," Smith said. "I had a good look. I just love that feeling of making big shots and big plays. There was one second left and I stole the ball on the inbounds.
It was special. Everyone thought we couldn't do it again." Smith has attended several Bulldog games this season and over the last few years and likes what he has seen from Rick Stansbury's 
squad. "I love Mississippi State," Smith said. "I love the atmosphere that they have and their environment."  Smith is rated the No. 11 class as well as its No. 38 overall prospect.


April 25, 2010

Adams Gives Verbal Pledge To ACC 

by Evans Daniels
Scout.com Basketball Recruiting Analyst

Tyler Adams  has been contemplating a decision for quite some time. After narrowing his list of schools he made his decision. Mike Krzyzewski and his staff at Duke have 
been looking for a bruising big guy to man the post. Late Sunday night the Blue Devils scored their guy. Tyler Adams, a 2011 standout at Brandon (Miss.) High, gave Duke 
a verbal commitment. 

"The reason I went with Duke is I feel like it's the best fit for me," Adams explained. "The last couple of months they've been recruiting me pretty hard. A program like 
this, not many people get a chance to go there. So I wanted to go ahead and go with Coach K."  Adams, a 6-foot-8, 225-pound center, cited his relationship with the coaching 
staff, especially assistant Nate James as one of the main reasons he chose Duke. 

"Me and coach Nate James are pretty close and we've developed a pretty good relationship the past couple of months," Adams said. "I feel pretty comfortable with him. The main 
reason I feel comfortable because we've developed such a good relationship." Adams, who runs with the Jackson Tigers during summer ball, said he also considered Mississippi 
State, Alabama, Memphis and Clemson. "They have a lot of players that have made it to the next level," he said. "I've really liked them since they started recruiting and I like
how coach K really develops his players." Adams is the second 2011 prospect to commit to Duke. He joins Richmond (Va.) Benedictine standout Michael Gbinije to make up their 
current 2011 class. 


April 23, 2010

Mississippi Basketball signings

by LeMond Roy
msboyshoops.com Basketball Analyst 

Division I signees (November)
Rashad Perkins, 6-5, Starkville (Southern Miss) — According to Starkville coach Greg Carter, Perkins is attending Chipola Junior College in Florida in an effort to finish high school 
academic requirements so he can enroll at USM, where he's expected to sit out his first season beginning next fall.

Trency Jackson, 6-2, Wingfield (USM)
Dundrecous Nelson, 5-11, Murrah (Ole Miss)
Andre Stringer, 5-9, Forest Hill (LSU)
Jalen Courtney, 6-7, Provine (LSU)
Demarco Cox, 6-8, Yazoo City (Ole Miss)
Jeffery Simmons, 6-3, Greenwood (Middle Tennessee)
Jordan Cornelius, 6-9, Lanier (Jacksonville State)
Jeremy Campbell, 6-2, Oak Grove (Southeastern Louisiana)
Keeslee Stewart, 5-8, Hinds AHS (Jackson State)

Division I signees (April)
Derrell Taylor, 6-4, Morton (JSU)
Scottie Sterling, 5-10, Provine (JSU)
Guy Payne, 6-5, Biloxi (Alcorn State)
Mopo Pierre, 6-6, Piney Woods (Tennessee-Martin)
Antonnio Benton, 6-7, Oak Grove (SE Louisiana)
Desmond Haymon, 6-3, Williams-Sullivan (Stephen F. Austin)

Other signees
Danny Bolden, 6-2, Greenville-Weston — Miss. Delta CC
Johnathan Brandon, 6-1, New Hope — Shelton State (Ala.) CC
Nicholas Cook, 6-5, Hattiesburg — Marion Military (Ala.)
Jeremiah Dunnings, 5-10, Biloxi — Miss. Gulf Coast CC
Jermille Fluker, 6-0, Long Beach — Dillard
Josh Green, 6-3, Pontotoc — Henderson State (Ark.)
Kelsey Howard, 6-4, Vicksburg — Meridian CC
DeMarcus Lewis, 6-3, Canton — Holmes
LaVadius Lyles, 5-9, Forest — Northwestern State, La. (football)
Tevin Moore, 6-3, Olive Branch — Northwest Miss. CC
Kevin Nixon, 6-2, Heidelberg — Jones JC
DeAngelo Priar, 6-2, S.V. Marshall — Holmes CC
Willie Readus, 6-6, Morton — Marion Military (Ala.)
Darius Woods, 5-7, Horn Lake — Northwest Miss. CC

Edward Townsel, 6-0, Starkville — Has visited Louisiana Tech and also is getting interest from Tennessee-Chattanooga, 
Louisiana-Lafayette and Troy.

Daron Bell, 6-3, Bay — Has heard from several lower-level Division I schools in Louisiana as well as a handful of NAIA 
programs. Could end up at Pearl River CC, which signed former St. Stanislaus star and Centenary freshman Pedro Maciel 
recently.


April 17, 2010

Howard impresses at Real Deal in the Rock

by Jerry Meyer
Rivals.com Basketball Recruiting Analyst

LITTE ROCK, Ark. - Rivals.com took a good look at the 16-Under action at The Real Deal on the Rock on Friday night. One of the standouts was Tymond Howard 
of MBA Hoops.

Physical, aggressive, athletic and talented is the way to describe Howard. He literally did everything for MBA Hoops as he scored 24 points in a 57-52 win 
over the Alabama Celtics.

Howard scored almost exclusively on bruising drives to the basket, finishing both at the rim and with pull up jumpers. He also relentlessly pursued the ball 
off the glass, and at 6 feet 5, 200 pounds, he displayed some nifty ball handling in the open court and at the point guard position in the half court.

A potential five-star prospect in the 2012 class, Howard already has an offer from Tennessee and claims the Volunteers as his leader. He is also hearing from
Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Baylor and Auburn. Trey Bolden (MBA Hoops 2013)- A powerfully built 6-foot-7 post player, Bolden was also impressive. He battled 
on the inside with Howard, and he has a promising skill set. His foot work was solid in the post, and he was a threat in transition.

Brice Rowe (MBA Hoops 2012)- A 6-foot-2 combo guard, Rowe handled the ball a great deal for MBA Hoops. He looked to be the next best perimeter prospect on the 
team behind Howard.


March 22, 2010

Rebels land versatile guard for 2011 class

by Neal McCready
RebelSports.net 

Ole Miss continued its strong in-state recruiting efforts on Monday when the Rebels landed a commitment from McComb, Miss., shooting guard LaDarius White. 

White, a 6-foot-5, 200-pounder nicknamed "Snoop," chose the Rebels over Mississippi State after attending Ole Miss' second-round NIT win over Memphis Friday 
night in Oxford.

"I loved it," White said. "I loved the environment. I loved how they play. That's my kind of ball."

White is the Rebels' second commitment for the 2011 class, joining Hickory, N.C., forward Tyler Poole. He is the third prominent Mississippian to commit to 
the Rebels in the past year, joining 2010 signees Dundrecous Nelson and Demarco Cox. 

"(The Ole Miss staff) is very supportive," White said. "They'd be at my games. I'd look up and see Ole Miss. I just like them. I got to know them more and more."

Hilton Harrell, White's High School coach, said White was leaning to Ole Miss going into his trip to Oxford last week. Once there, "he fell in love 
with it," Harrell said. "He loved the campus and he loved the environment. I think Coach (Andy) Kennedy has done a great job with the offense he runs. Lots of 
guards like it. They've been doing a good job with guard play and now they're getting the big guys like Demarco."

White, who averaged 24 points, eight rebounds and four assists at McComb last season, is known for his versatility as well as his athleticism and his shooting 
range. He could grow into a small forward at the college level, and he has the ball skills to play point guard.

"I think I can play all three (positions)," White said. "I can be a 1 or a 2 or a 3. It really doesn't matter."

"I think he may grow into a (small forward)," Harrell said. "But he's a (shooting guard). He can also play the point. He can do it all. As good as he is, he has 
some upside to him. He can shoot from the outside, post up, dribble-drive. He's a good passer and a good team player. His work this spring, this summer and next 
year will determine how much he'll step in and help them."

White might help Ole Miss long before he arrives in Oxford. His AAU teammate and close friend, five-star forward Johnny O'Bryant from Cleveland, Miss., is strongly 
considering Ole Miss along with Mississippi State, Memphis, California and others. 

"I'm planning on working him," White said, laughing. "It probably will work. I think it will."


March 20, 2010

All-Star Coach Jay Ladner talks about Mississippi's players
by Clarion Ledger

...Jay Ladner of St. Stanislaus spent the last few days coaching Mississippi's all-star boys team for the 20th annual game against Alabama, which Mississippi won 
Friday night in a 112-88 rout.

We talked to Ladner a couple hours before tip off to get his evaluations on each of Mississippi's 12 players:

Andre Stringer, Forest Hill, 5-8, guard (LSU signee)
"We had a better feel for Andre because we played against him at St. Stanislaus. He’s as advertised. He’s certainly not big, but they say dynamite comes in small packages 
I love him. He plays hard and has a great feel for the game. A lot of people question his size, but I haven’t seen that come into play yet."

Dundrecous Nelson, Murrah, 5-11, guard (Ole Miss signee)
"I think Dundrecous has got great upside. He works at times, but I’d like to see him get a little more focused. I am saying that in a very positive way because his upside 
is really good. When he gets into the Ole Miss program and they begin to demand a lot of things from him on a daily basis, we’ll see that he’s a very talented player."

Trency Jackson, Wingfield, 6-2, guard (USM signee)
"I love the way Trency’s motor runs. I think Southern Miss got a steal — I really do. He’s always got a smile on his face, but he has worked his tail off every minute he’s 
been here. Very focused. He’s very, very quick with great leaping ability. He’s going to be a good one."

Jalen Courtney, Provine, 6-7, forward (LSU signee)
"Jalen's got a great attitude and works really, really hard. He’s already been coached. Coach (Luther) Riley has done a great job with him. He’s going to need to work on his 
face-up game for what he’s going to see in the SEC. But certainly he’s a very good player."

Demarcus Lewis, Canton, 6-3, forward (unsigned)
"DeMarcus made the team on the recommendation of some coaches in the Jackson area who had played against him. I think DeMarcus is a gamer. Fundamentals may not be his strong 
suit, but he certainly has good skill. I think he’s got great upside somewhere."

Edward Townsel, Starkville, 6-0, guard (unsigned)
"I love Ed. He’s not the biggest, but he’s a tough kid. I don’t think I’ve heard him say five words in the time he’s been here. But he’s always where he’s supposed to be and 
he gives tremendous effort. He’s another one who’s going to be a good player for somebody."

Demarco Cox, Yazoo City, 6-8, center (Ole Miss signee)
"I think he probably has the most upside of all the players here. He’s got great hands. He’s already a skilled player, but when he gets to Ole Miss and gets in a college weight 
training and conditioning program, the sky’s the limit. You’re going to see him play basketball for a long time."

Jeverik Nelson, Callaway, 6-7, forward (unsigned)
"I would hate to say a typical Jackson player, but Jeverik’s very fundamentally sound coming out of Wayne Brent’s program. He’s been very well coached already, defensively. 
Those kids coming out of Jackson just know how to play. I think he’s comparable to Jalen in that not only do they resemble one another in physical stature, I think Jeverik will 
also develop more of a face-up game when he gets to college ... whereas now he’s played more with his back to the basket."

Jeremiah Dunnings, Biloxi, 5-10, guard (unsigned)
"I think he’s been one of the surprises here. I had some experience with Jeremiah in terms of us playing against Biloxi. He’s one of the best spot shooters we have. He has great 
range and a great attitude. He’s a kid who works hard. I was talking to him the other day and he’s still undecided. He hasn’t gotten a lot of college looks, but he certainly can 
help some people."

Rashad Perkins, Starkville, 6-5, forward (USM signee)
"Rashad’s probably the most athletic kid here. His jumping ability is incredible. I’d like to see him develop his perimeter shot a little more. It’s a little unorthodox. He needs
a little fundamental work there, but he’s a great, great athlete."

Willie Readus, Morton, 6-6, forward/center (unsigned)
"Willie’s a big body. He needs to get himself in better shape, but he’s shown some good signs this week. He’s another big player who’s got good hands and good skill. He needs to 
get his motor running a little more, but I think getting in the right program with some coaches who can motivate him … I think he’s got some upside, too."

Kelsey Howard, Vicksburg, 6-4, guard (unsigned)
"I love Kelsey Howard. I’d say behind Demarco, he’s probably got as much upside as anybody. He’s got a beautiful shooting touch. When he gets himself bigger and stronger, he’s going
to be a heck of a player for somebody. I understand he’s going to Meridian (Community College), but there’s some Division I guys missing on him."


March 18, 2010

Andre Stringer repeats as Gatorade Player of the Year for Mississippi

Congrats to Forest Hill's Andre Stringer, who was named Gatorade Player of the Year for Mississippi. Stringer, a 5-foot-8 senior guard and LSU signee, is the first 
back-to-back winner in boys basketball since the award was initiated in 1986.

The selection process for Gatorade Players of the Year is administered by ESPN RISE, the multimedia high school division of ESPN, in partnership with The Gatorade 
Company. All final selection decisions are the result of a collaborative effort between ESPN RISE and The Gatorade Company.


March 9, 2010

Nike Announces Elite Youth Basketball League Schedule

Beaverton, Oregon (March 4, 2010) – NIKE, Inc. has announced the launch of its inaugural EYBL (Elite Youth Basketball League) featuring it’s 
forty-two (42) elite travel team programs beginning this spring with four 17 & under events, culminating with the EYBL Finals at the 
NIKE Peach Jam in North Augusta, SC from July 12-15, 2010.   One 17u team the Jackson Tigers will be the lone representative of the Magnolia State 
in the EYBL.  

The EYBL will tip-off at the Boo Williams Sportsplex in Hampton, VA from April 9-11.  The final two regular season events will be held at League 
America in Houston, TX on May 14-16 and in Los Angeles, CA over Memorial Day Weekend (May 29-31) at a to be determined location.  The teams and schedule 
can be printed @ www.metroplexhoops.com 

In addition to the EYBL, the front-end of the summer is designed to help players through skill development.  The nation’s best underclassmen tip-off the 
summer at the NIKE Hoop Jamboree in St. Louis from June 10-13.  At the end of June, the elite high school players throughout the country are selected to 
attend a positional Skills Academy with Utah’s Deron Williams (point guards), Boston’s Paul Pierce (wings), Oklahoma City’s Kevin Durant (wings) and Phoenix’s
Amar’e Stoudemire (forwards/centers) held separately over June 24-30 in Chicago, IL, followed by a culminating academy for all players with reigning MVP LeBron 
James at the University of Akron from July 5-7.  All five Skills Academies will be closed to college coaches for the participants to focus on improving themselves 
in both an individual and team setting with special situation drills. 

“NIKE is committed to providing a platform for the top high school players to improve their game with an assist from the top players in the NBA and the best 
instructors in the game of basketball during our skills academies” said Mike Hackman, NIKE’s Elite Youth Director.  “The addition of the EYBL provides an organized 
and exciting format for these elite athletes to consistently compete against the best players.” 

Following a successful first year, the King City Classic will return to Cleveland State University’s Wolstein Center in Cleveland, Ohio on July 8-9. The event is 
designed for the nation’s top 80 high school players to compete head-to-head in a national tournament.  Hundreds of college coaches, scouts and media are expected 
to attend. 


March 8, 2010

Mississippi All-star boys basketball teams announced ........
by Clarion Ledger

Players were chosen for the Alabama/Mississippi All-Star game (March 19 at the Pelham Civic Complex in suburban Birmingham) and the Mississippi 
High School All-Star game (July 10 at Mississippi College in Clinton).

Alabama/Mississippi All-Star game

(Mississippi boys)

Jalen Courtney, 6-7, Provine (LSU)
Demarco Cox, 6-8, Yazoo City (Ole Miss)
Jeremiah Dunnings, 5-10, Biloxi
Kelsey Howard, 6-4, Vicksburg
Trency Jackson, 6-2, Wingfield (USM)
DeMarcus Lewis, 6-3, Canton
Dundrecous Nelson, 5-11, Murrah (Ole Miss)
Jeverik Nelson, 6-7, Callaway
Rashad Perkins, 6-5, Starkville (USM)
Willie Readus, 6-6, Morton
Edward Townsel, 6-0, Starkville
Andre Stringer, 5-8, Forest Hill (LSU)
Coach: Jay Ladner, St. Stanislaus
Assistant: Danny Grieves, St. Patrick
Administrative coach: Luther Riley, Provine


Mississippi High School All-Star game

(North boys)
Mychal Ammons, 6-6, Vicksburg
Deontaye Ewing, 6-2, Tupelo
David Gardner, 6-8, Okolona
LeAntwan Luckett, 6-4, Ridgeland
Jarren Mallory, 5-11, Provine
Jaylen Moore, 6-6, Olive Branch
Johnny O'Bryant, 6-9, East Side
Donovan Ross, 6-5, Ridgeland
Marquavius "Deville" Smith, 5-10, Callaway
Jarvis Summers, 6-3, Provine
Acie Vance, 6-0, Ripley
Quentin Watkins, 6-0, Lanier
Coaches: George Christian, O'Bannon; Roderick Davidson, Ridgeland

(South boys)
Tyler Adams, 6-9, Brandon
Trey Brown, 6-6, Brandon
Darius Forest, 6-6, Wingfield
Daniel Grieves, 6-6, St. Patrick
Rodney Hood, 6-8, Meridian
Stanley Magee, 6-3, Pass Christian
Xavian Rimmer, 6-1, Piney Woods
A.J. Wade, 6-0, Northeast Lauderdale
Hakeem Wesley, 6-3, Newton County
LaDarius "Snoop" White, 6-4, McComb
Bryan Williams, 6-5, Pascagoula
Johnny Zuppardo, 6-8, St. Stanislaus
Coaches: Darrin Gray, Scott Central; Buddy Kennedy, Pass Christ


March 4, 2010

MHSAA State Tournament Finals Set
by Lavel Johnson
MagnoliaPreps.com Basketball Analyst

With the close of semi-final action on Thursday night, the preliminaries are over and it's time for the main event, the championship games. 
The match-ups for the championship games are set and there are a number of interesting championship game match-ups. The schedule is as follows:

On Thursday March 4th:

1:00 PM - 1A Girls Final - Myrtle vs McAdams

2:30 PM - 1A Boys Final - Ingomar vs McAdams

7:00 PM - 2A Girls Final - New Site vs Newton

8:30 PM - 2A Boys Final - Baldwyn vs West Bolivar

On Friday March 5th:

1:00 PM - 3A Girls Final - Belmont vs Ripley

2: 30 PM - 3A Boys Final - Forest vs Kemper County

7:00 PM - 4A Girls Final - New Albany vs Raymond

8:30 PM - 4A Boys Final - St. Stanislaus vs Bay St. Louis

On Saturday March 6th:

1:00 PM - 5A Girls Final - Wayne County vs West Jones

2:30 PM - 5A Boys Final - Provine vs Callaway

7:00 PM - 6A Girls Final - Horn Lake vs Greenville

8:30 PM - 6A Boys Final - Starkville vs Meridian

Top semi-final perfomances:

Boys

Zack Carnell, 6-7 center, Ingomar - 32 points and 12 rebounds in Ingomar's 70-56 win over Durant.

Lavadius Lyles, 5-9 guard, Forest - 29 points, six three point field goals, in Forest's 81-57 win over Holly Springs.

Daron Bell, 6-3 guard, Bay St. Louis - 22 points, 5 three point field goals, 10 rebounds, 7 assists, 6 steals and 2 blocks in Bay High's 
59-54 overtime win over Center Hill.

"Deville" Smith, 6-0 guard, Callaway - 28 points, 6 rebounds and 5 steals in Callaway's 62-53 win over McComb.

Rashard Perkins, 6-5 forward, Starkville - 21 points, 14 rebounds, 7 blocks, 5 steals and 4 assist in Starkville's 66-51 win over Biloxi.

Girls

Janairrika Bland, 6-3 center, Raymond - 19 points and 16 rebounds in Raymond's 71-64 win over Lafayette County.

Jazmine Spears, 5-11 forward, New Albany - 26 points, 15 rebounds and 3 blocks in New Albany's 61-44 win over Northeast Lauderdale.

Breanna Lewis, 5-8 guard, Greenville - 41 points, 8 three point field goals in Greenville's 60-55 win over Harrison Central.

Jasbriell Swain, 5-10 guard, Horn Lake - 21 points, 8 rebounds, 6 steals and 5 assist in Horn Lake's 56-39 win over Hattiesburg.

Other Semi-Final Notes:

The match-up between 6-9 Johnny O'Bryant of Cleveland Eastside and 6-7 Devonta Pollard of Kemper County did not disappoint. O'Bryant, a junior, 
had 19 points and 9 rebounds and led a Cleveland Eastside second half rally with 14 points and 8 rebounds in the second half. Pollard, a sophomore, 
had 17 points, 8 rebounds and 3 blocks and was a model of consistency with 9 points and 4 rebounds in the first half and 8 points and 4 rebounds in 
the second half. O'Bryant is already the object of recruiting interest from high major schools all over the nation while Pollard is the top ranked 
sophomore in Mississippi and is fast becoming a target of numerous high major programs.

Most Intriguing Championship Match-ups: 

2A Girls- New Site vs Newton

4A Girls - Raymond vs New Albany

6A Boys - Meridian vs Starkville

Check back next week for our wrap-up from the "Big House". We'll name our all state tournament team and give out our all state tournament awards. 


March 3, 2010

3rd Annual Mississippi Unsigned Senior Showcase

The 3rd Annual Mississippi Unsigned Senior Showcase will be held April 10th, 2010 from 9 a.m. – until. Location has not been determined yet.
College coaches and Recruiting Scouts will be in attendance. There will be the "SKILLS AND DRILLS" session, where each player is put through   
drills including shooting, passing and dribbling. Camp entry fee is $85.00 per player and the deadline to enter will be April 5th, 2010.  
Rising Seniors can also participate in this event!!  For more information contact Ted Hutchins @ (601) 842-5178 or thutchi@hotmail.com  


February 25, 2010

Ex-Alcorn Hoops Coach chosen for college basketball Hall of Fame
by The Clarion Ledger

Former Alcorn State basketball coach Dave Whitney has been chosen for induction into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of 
Fame, it was announced today. Whitney, 80, posted 550-337 record in 31 years as a head coach, including a five-year stint at Texas 
Southern and two stops at Alcorn. He first coached the Braves from 1969-88, then returned from 1996-2002. Whitney’s Alcorn teams 
won 495 games and 12 Southwestern Athletic Conference titles. Two of Whitney’s biggest victories came in 1979, when the Braves beat 
Mississippi State at Starkville in a National Invitation Tournament game, and then in 1980, when Alcorn beat South Alabama 70-62 to 
become the first team from a historically black university to win an NCAA Tournament game.

Whitney, who lives in Biloxi, will be inducted into the National College Basketball Hall of Fame during ceremonies scheduled for Nov. 21 
in Kansas City. Other inductees announced today in this fifth class of the NCB Hall of Fame were former long-time coach Tex Winters 
and players of some reknown: Jerry West of West Virginia, Sidney Wicks of UCLA, David Thomas of North Carolina State and Christian 
Laettner of Duke. The NCB Hall of Fame is separate from the Nasmith Basketball Hall of Fame, the shrine that covers professional and 
college hoops. 

The NCB Hall of Fame opened five years ago.  Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski, the president of the National Association of Basketball Coaches 
foundation, said the hall of was created to honor players and coaches who might not have won national championships but still made a 
significant impact on the game.  “In Davey Whitney and Tex Winter we have two great coaches who contributed so much to the game,” said 
Krzyzewski.


February 22, 2010

Former Murrah Star Jeremy Wise Update....
by The Clarion Ledger

Former Murrah and Southern Miss standout Jeremy Wise is tearing it up as a rookie in the NBA Development League. Playing for the Bakersfield Jam,
Wise had two recent games in which he scored 54 points abd dished out 17 assists, compared to only three turnovers. He's scoring 16 points a game, 
while shooting 52 percent from the floor and 85 percent from the line. Those are the kind of numbers that can get him to the next level, especially 
if he's defending.


February 2, 2010

JUNIOR CLASS IS STILL LOADED IN MAGNOLIA STATE
by Clark Francis, Editor & Publisher of the HOOP SCOOP

     It looks like history is repeating itself in the Magnolia State.  First, there was 6'9 Renardo Sidney, who sat out his freshmen 
year at Piney Wood (H.S.) MS and then transferred to the West Coast, where he played his sophomore season at Artesia High School in 
Lakewood, CA and his junior and senior seasons at Fairfax High School in Los Angeles, CA.  And, after being courted strongly by both 
UCLA and USC, Sidney opted to return home and enroll at Mississippi State, where he is currently waiting for the NCAA to determine the 
status of his eligibility. And, now there is 6'8 Jr LaQuinton Ross, who started his high school career at Jackson (Callaway) MS, then 
played a year-and-a-half at Jackson (Murrah) MS, and now is at Burlington (Life Center) NJ, where he hopes to improve academically.  
And this is important, because either or both of these players might have been included on our First Team All-Time All-State Team, if 
they had stayed home and played their entire high school career in the state. However, before you start to feel too sorry for our 
Mississippi Editor Lavel Johnson, it's important to remember that Ross wasn't the state's only big time player in the Class of 2011.  
"The class is still potentially one of the best ever in the state," says Johnson.  "It has a number of good inside players, athletic 
wings, and outstanding point guards.  But it's depth that really makes this a special class.  Normally there are two-to-four high 
Division I players in the state. 

     However, before you start to feel too sorry for our Mississippi Editor Lavel Johnson, it's important to remember that Ross 
wasn't the state's only big time player in the Class of 2011.  "The class is still potentially one of the best ever in the state," says 
Johnson. "It has a number of good inside players, athletic wings, and outstanding point guards.  But it's depth that really makes this 
a special class.  Normally there are two-to-four high Division I players in the state.  But this year there are at least eight and maybe 
as many as 13 high major players in the state."  Johnson is talking about 5'11 Jr Marquavius "Deville" Smith from Jackson (Callaway) MS, 
6'7 Jr Rodney Hood from Meridian (H.S.) MS, 6'8 Jr Johnny O'Bryant from Cleveland (Eastside) MS, 6'9 Jr Tyler Adams 
from Brandon (H.S.) MS, 6'5 Jr Ladarius White from McComb (H.S.) MS, 6'6 Jr Mychal Ammons from Vicksburg (H.S.) MS, 6'8 Jr 
David Gardner from Okolona (H.S.) MS, 6'2 Jr Xavian Rimmer from  Piney Woods (H.S.) MS, 6'3 Jr Jarvis Summers from 
Jackson (Provine) MS, 6'7 Jr Kentwan Smith from Piney Woods (H.S.) MS, 6'6 Jr Daniel Greives from Biloxi (St. Patrick) MS, 
6'5 Jr LeAntwan Luckett from Ridgeland (H.S.) MS, and 6'9 Jr Durell Robinson from Mendenhall (H.S.) MS.  The class also has 
plenty of star power, as Smith, Hood,  O'Bryant, and Adams are all ranked among the top 50 juniors nationally by the HOOP SCOOP. 

     "And they're all still available," says Johnson. "Smith is a scoring point with deceptive athleticism and jet-like speed and quickness. 
 I think we've got him ranked #22 nationally, which makes him one of the best point guard prospects in the Class of 2011.  Hood, White, and 
Gardner are all long athletic sharp shooting wing players.  Adams and O'Bryant are both strong physical specimens inside.  Ammons, Grieves, 
and Luckett are all scoring wings who rely more on power than finesse.  Rimmer and Summers are point guards who both excel at getting into 
the lane.  Smith and Robinson are inside guys who can rebound, block shots, and score in the paint.

      In contrast, the senior class is average at best.  It does have four players - 5'9 Andre Stringer from Jackson (Forest Hill) MS 
to LSU,6'9 DeMarco Cox from Yazoo City (H.S.) MS to Ole Miss, 5'11 Dundrecous Nelson from Jackson (Murrah) MS to Ole Miss, and 
6'7 Jalen Courtney from Jackson (Provine) MS to LSU - who have signed with high major schools.  But it doesn't have the star power, as 
is evident by the fact that Stringer and Cox both can be found in the 75-100 range nationally and Nelson and Courtney are both ranked in the 
101-200 range nationally. We also think 6'2 Trency Jackson from Jackson (Wingfield) MS and 6'5 Rashard Perkins from Starkville (H.S.) 
MS are good catches for Southern Miss and 6'0 Edward Townsel from Starkville (H.S.) MS and 6'4 Kesley Howard from Vicksburg (H.S.) 
MS are a pair of sleepers who are ideally suited for somebody in the Sun Belt and Missouri Valley Conferences.  However, after that there 
is a big drop, as depth is clearly the big weakness of this class. 

      The sophomore class in the state is still taking shape, but it already appears that this is going to be a fertile recruiting grown 
year-after-next for the stereotypical athlete that still can be found off the beaten path in the Deep South.  The top three players - 6'8 Soph 
Devonta Pollard from Portersville (Kemper County) MS, 6'6 Soph Tymon Howard from Pearl (H.S.) MS, and 6'8 Soph Gavin Ware 
from Starkville (H.S.) MS - are all good enough to project among the top 50 players nationally.  Pollard is a long athletic shot blocking power 
forward who scores around the rim.  Howard is big time scoring wing who also knows how to use his strong body to get to the rim.  Ware is a big 
bodied post player who does all of the dirty work inside. And as long as we're on this theme, also falling into the same mold at Ware is 6'8 Soph
Jamal Hester from Ridgeland (H.S.) MS. 

Johnson also does a great job of looking back over the years and coming up with his First Team All-Time All-State Team, which features three locks 
in Chris Jackson, who played at LSU and later in the NBA; Monta Ellis,  who went straight to the NBA after a stellar career at Jackson 
(Lanier) MS; and Othello Harrington, who dominated the high school scene during his time at Jackson (Murrah) MS.  "The choices for the last 
two spots on the all-time teams go to two of the greatest scorers to ever come through the Magnolia State," says Johnson.  "James Robinson 
averaged over 40 points per game during his senior year at Jackson Murrah and Purvis Short was a prolific scorer in the early 70's at Hattiesburg 
Blair before playing at Jackson State and later in the NBA.  Just missing the cut for our First Team All-Time All-State Team were Al Jefferson 
from Prentiss High School and Antonio McDyess from Quitman 
High School."          

November 5, 2009

MagnoliaPreps Hoops Preview and Preseason Ranking
MagnoliaPreps.com Basketball Analyst
Lavel Johnson

Hoops Preview & Preseason Ranking

As the high school football season moves to the playoffs, high school basketball teams are approaching the tip off of their season. 
With the first games less than a week away it's time to take a look at how the upcoming season looks to shape up and take a look at 
our Magnoliapreps.com preseason Top 13 Hoop Rankings.

This year begins a new era in Mississippi high school sports as the MHSAA moves to six classes instead of the previous five. Creating 
a new 5A Classification from the top 32 teams in the old 4A Classification and spreading out the remaining teams more evenly throughout 
4A, 3A, 2A and 1A. The changes affected basketball even more because with the addition of a new classification the State Tournament 
changed its format. Whereas in the pass three teams advanced to the state tournament from the North and South State tournaments now only 
two teams will advance to the coliseum, doing away with the bye for the first place teams and creating a true "Final Four" for each class,
and creating another elimination game in the North and South State semi-final games, giving teams one fewer opportunity to recover from a 
slip up. (So you better bring your "A-Game" every night now.)

Our Preseason Rankings
(Last season's final record in parentheses)

1) Jackson Provine (27-7) - After falling short of a third straight gold ball in last year's 5A final the Rams will battle this 
year for that same 5A crown but against a different group of teams and the Rams will go into battle with a new cast of players. The Rams 
welcome back only two experienced returnees from last years team in 6'7" Senior forward Jalen Courtney and 6'3" Junior guard Jarvis Summers. 
6'0" Senior guard Marcellus Hansberry moves over from cross town rival Lanier to team up with Summers to give the Rams one of the best 
back-court s in the state. Sophomore forwards, 6'4" Roger Wood and 6'5" Raheem Logan will be expected to give quality production in the 
front-court, while defensive demon Scottie Sterling will provide depth in the back-court.

2) Jackson Callaway (33-6) - The defending 4A and Overall champions appear more than capable of taking home a second straight 
gold and silver ball. The Chargers will be led by 6'0" Junior guard "Deville" Smith and 6'7" Senior forward Jeverick Nelson. Defensive steward 
Jason Gibson is the third returning starter for the Chargers while Senior forwards 6'6" Cory Young and 6'4" Malcolm Sanders should give the 
Chargers solid production.

3) Brandon (28-5) - coming off of their third straight trip to the state tournament the Bulldogs look ready to make a run for a gold ball. 
The Bulldogs will be led by the outside-inside tandem of 5'9" Senior point guard D.J. Evans and 6'9" Junior center Tyler Adams. 6'2" Senior sharp 
shooter Caleb Jent, who is injured and will be out until late December, is the third returning starter for the Bulldogs. 6'7" Junior forward 
Tre Brown and 6'4" Sophomore forward Nelson Adams, Tyler's younger brother, will be counted on to provide interior support.

4) Starkville (23-5) - The Yellowjackets have been one of the winningest programs in the state for the last few years but are still 
searching for that first gold ball. The Yellowjackets will make a push for the first ever 6A crown behind the Senior duo of 6'4" forward 
Rashard Perkins and 6'0" point guard Edward Townsel. The seniors will be complimented by 6'8" Sophomore center Gavin Ware.

5) Jackson Wingfield (20-10) - after a strong season last year with a underclassman dominated team the Falcons appear ready to make a run at 
the 6A championship. Wingfield will be led by 6'2" Senior guard Trency Jackson, who appears poised for a breakout season. Other returning starters 
are 6'0" Senior guard Jurmond Cottenhead and 6'3" Junior wing JaMichael Hawkins. The Falcons welcome in 6'6" Junior forward Darius Forest, who should 
give the Falcons front-court more pop.

6) Biloxi (30-3) - Defending 5A champion Indians will be led in their quest for the first ever 6A crown by 6'0" Senior guard Jeremiah Dunnings, 
one of the state's best shooters. Dunnings will be complimented by the Senior duo of 6'6" center Guy Payne and 6'5" forward Tyler Jones while 6'1" 
Senior guard Shakelle Borel, 6'1" Junior forward Corey Jackson and 6'6" Junior forward Victor Vertison will be counted on for support.

7) Jackson Lanier (15-10) - The Bulldogs appear poised for a bounce back season. 6'9" Senior center Jordan Cornelius and 6'3" Senior forward 
Obacus Taylor lead the Bulldogs, they should be complimented by 6'3" Junior guard Alex Thompson, 6'5" Junior forward Kadarilias Kemp and 5'9" Junior 
guard Greg Lee.

8) Cleveland Eastside (22-12) - Lead by 6'9" Junior center Johnny O'Bryant and 6'0" Senior point guard Ramone Wesley, the Trojans look to carry 
the torch for the smaller classes. O'Bryant and Wesley will be supported by 6'4" Senior forward Cataviuos Vaughn and 6'5" Senior forward Laquavius Cotton.

9) Meridian (25-5) - Top Players: Rodney Hood 6'7" Jr., Devin Cherry 6'2" Jr., Sidney Coleman 6'6" Jr., Zac Cacapit 6'0" Sr.

10) Ridgeland (26-8) - Top Players: LeAntwan Luckett 6'5" Jr., Donovan Ross 6'5" Jr, Calvin Johnson 6'3" Sr., Jamal Hester 6'8" soph.

11) Vicksburg (22-11) - Top Players: Kesley Howard 6'3" Sr., Michael Ammons 6'6" Jr.

12) McComb (23-10) - Top Players: Ladarrius White 6'5" Soph., Rodrick Bland 6'7" Sr.

13) Forest Hill (29-6) - Top Players: Andre Stringer 5'9" Sr., Richard Deans 6'2" Sr.

6A teams to watch: North 6A looks to be quite interesting with a number of teams appearing capable of making a run for the "Big House", 
Olive Branch (30-4), Greenville Weston (25-8), Tupelo (21-7) and Jackson Murrah (14-12) all warrant keeping an eye on. In the South, Jackson Jim Hill (18-12), 
Pascagoula (16-14), Gulfport (19-9) and Harrison Central (11-16) all have promise.

5A teams to watch: New Hope (25-6), Yazoo City (18-14), Wayne County (28-4), Moss Point (23-8) and Long Beach (13-18) appear to be the teams outside 
the top 13 with the potential to make some noise.

4A
Greenwood (19-11) appears to be the class of North 4A but Pontotoc (20-11) and Rosa Fort (29-5) both have enough back to past them up. Bay St. Louis (19-12) 
looks strong down South but Raymond (24-9) and St. Stanislaus (30-5) appear capable of strong runs also.

3A
Aberdeen (19-11) appears to be Eastside's biggest challenger in the North but never count out Ripley (23-5) or Tchula Marshall (24-7) and Jackson Bailey (9-17) 
promises to be battle tested; In the South, Kemper County (25-11) and Morton (22-7) seem to be the cream of the crop but Perry Central (16-12) , Forest (14-10) 
and Heidelberg (14-10) all appear capable of making some noise.

2A
Defending champion Hinds AHS (33-3) leads a strong pack of South contenders as Newton (24-8), Richton (25-4), Loyd Star (25-4) and Piney Woods (10-18) all appear 
capable of making a run to the "Big House"; West Bolivar (24-7) looks to be the class of the North while Baldwyn (25-4), Calhoun City (22-13), William Sullivan (25-7), 
and Hickory Flat (22-12) all look capable of making some noise.

1A
Okolona (22-11) and Myrtle (26-13) appear to be the top contenders in the North, but don't count out Ingomar (19-17) or Shaw (23-4); McAdams (21-13) and Durant (25-6) 
continue to be the class of South 1A but Dexter (22-8) and Sabastapol (19-5) always puts up a challenge.

MAIS
Madison-Ridgeland Academy (36-4), Jackson Academy (29-7) and Brookhaven Academy (30-10) appear to be the cream of the Independent school ranks.

2009-2010 Clarion-Ledger Dandy Dozen List

Tyler Adams, Brandon, 6-9, Jr.
Jalen Courtney, Provine, 6-7, Sr.
Demarco Cox, Yazoo City, 6-8, Sr.
Rodney Hood, Meridian, 6-8, Jr,
Trency Jackson, Wingfield, 6-2, Sr.
Dundrecous Nelson, Murrah, 5-10, Sr.
Johnny O'Bryant, East Side, 6-9, Jr.
Rashad Perkins, Starkville, 6-5, Sr.
LaQuinton Ross, Murrah, 6-8. Jr.
Marquavius "Deville" Smith, Callaway, 5-10, Jr.
Andre Stringer, Forest Hill, 5-8, Sr.
LaDarius "Snoop" White, McComb, 6-4, Jr.


October 26, 2009

Jackson makes decision
BigGoldNation.com

Although he was lightly recruited for most of his junior year and during this past summer, when it came down to it Wingfield 
(Jackson, Miss.) High guard Trency Jackson had plenty of options. With offers from programs like Indiana, Marquette, Missouri, 
Southern Cal and others, he could have gone pretty much anywhere and played in any league. But, at the end of the day home is 
where the heart is, and he'll be spending his basketball playing days in Hattiesburg, at Southern Miss.

At a press conference at Wingfield High earlier today he announced that he has committed to and plans to sign with Southern Miss 
next month in the early signing period.

"It really came down to USC and USM," Jackson told BigGoldNation.com. 

Southern Miss and USC seemed to be the leaders of the pack a couple of weeks back when a prior media conference was canceled after 
Jackson had some factors to reconsider.

There was no canceling this time as he announced that he would stay at home and play for Coach Larry Eustachy and the Golden Eagles.

Jackson becomes Southern Miss' second commitment of the 2010 class along with Starkville (Miss.) High forward Rashad Perkins.

If Jackson and Perkins hold to their commitments and sign with the Eagles, it's a major statement for Larry Eustachy's program. It 
means the Golden Eagles are finally back, willing and able to compete for the best basketball players the Magnolia State has to offer.


October 9, 2009

Perkins Commits to Southern Miss
BigGoldNation.com

Southern Miss head coach Larry Eustachy got some good news earlier in the week when Starkville (Miss.) 
High F/G Rashad Perkins informed the Golden Eagle staff that he would be spending his college years in Hattiesburg.
The talented 6-foot-5, 200-pounder has been a fixture in the Starkville line-up since his freshman year. 

Last year as a junior he averaged 19 ppg, 10 rpg and helped the Yellow Jackets to a 21-5 record making it to the North State Tournament.

He told the Starkville Daily News that proximity to home was a big factor in his decision to commit to Southern Miss.
"I'm happy that Southern Miss wanted me," Perkins said. "Southern Miss, the way I was looking at it, it's far
away but not too far from home. This way, my dad can come see me and I won't have to travel too far to come back home."
In addition to Southern Miss, Perkins held offers from Alabama, Missouri and UAB.


October 5, 2009

Andre Stringer commits to LSU
Jerry Meyer, Rivals.com Basketball Recruiting Analyst 

The No. 1 player in Mississippi's Hoop class of 2010 made his choice today where he would spend the next four years.
Andre Stringer, the 5-foot-9 point guard from Jackson Forest Hill High School, and Mississippi's reigning Mr. Basketball,
announced that he would be attending LSU on next year at an afternoon press conference at Forest Hill.

"I felt like Trent Johnson had my best interest at heart." Stringer said. "At the end of the day I felt like he wanted me 
the most and I felt like LSU was be the place for me."

Ranked No. 1 in our Mississippi class of 2010 rankings, Stringer is the 93rd ranked player in the country in the Rivals.com 
rankings and is the 22nd ranked point guard. 

He average 25 points, 7 assists and 3 steals while leading Forest Hill to a 29-6 record and the finals of the 4A State Championship 
Tournament. Stringer who is already qualified says that he choose LSU over offers from Alabama, Tennessee, Marquette and Southern Cal.


August 4, 2009

Cox to hoop in SEC
Jerry Meyer, Rivals.com Basketball Recruiting Analyst 

Both a high major prospect in football and basketball, Demarco Cox wants to focus on the hardcourt in college, 
and he has found a court in the SEC that he wants to play on.

Cox, a 6-foot-8, 285-pound center from Yazoo City (Miss.) High School might have better future upside in football, 
but basketball is what he plans to play at Ole Miss.

"For right now his focus is on basketball, but you never say never," Yazoo City assistant coach Joffre Washington 
told Rivals.com while Cox was practicing football with his high school team. "If an opportunity presents itself to 
transition into football, then he is open to it."

Also considering offers from Arkansas, Alabama and Tennessee, Cox has found the perfect fit with his home state team.

"We went up to team camp during the summer, and he'd been to elite camp the past two years," said Washington. 
"He met and talked with Coach Kennedy, and they developed a good relationship. He liked the campus and the academics, 
and with it being a state school, his family and friends won't have to travel too far to watch him play."

Cox, who is ranked the No. 62 prospect in the Rivals150, had a strong summer playing for the MBA Hoops team. 
He is quick off his feet for a player his size and has a nice scoring touch in the lane.


July 6, 2009

Courtney Still Solid
Jerry Meyer, Rivals.com Basketball Recruiting Analyst 

Jackson (Miss.) Provine power forward Jalen Courtney is the Tigers' lone commit from the Class of 2010. 
As such, he has received plenty of attention from the LSU coaching staff as the weeks and months have gone by.
Since the three-star prospect committed to the Tigers in early March he has stayed busy, mostly with workouts 
and drills designed to better prepare him for what he will see in the SEC more than a year from now.

"I'm just working out every day in the gym as much as possible," Courtney told TigerBait.com. 
"I'm in the weight room a lot, too. For the most part I'm working on my ball handling.

"I'm really just doing a lot of two-ball stuff. My coach is a NIKE instructor and he showed me a lot of stuff they 
did at the NIKE All-American game. That includes stuff like handling the ball with tennis balls thrown at you. 
Stuff like that. That's what I really needed to focus on. I've made a whole lot of progress.

"I've always had the jumper. My ball handling was what needed to improve and that's getting where it needs to be."
Courtney, who said he is now up to 6-foot-8 and 212-pounds, said he has kept in regular contact with the LSU coaching staff.

"I talk to them a lot. I talk to the assistant coaches and coach (Trent) Johnson. I try to talk to them as much as possible. 
Because of the July thing they haven't been able to do to much, but it's been good. They basically wanted me to work on my 
perimeter game. They knew I was gonna do that anyways, but they stressed it. Based on the type of position I'm gonna 
play for them that's what they wanted."

Courtney will be attending the Reebok All-American game on Tuesday. He will return from that on July 10, and will leave the 
next day for the Mississippi North-South All-Star game. After that he will be attending the Peach Jam in Augusta, Georgia. 
He said LSU coaches would be attending the Reebok and Peach Jam events.

The coaches have also been keeping Courtney up to speed on what their other recruiting efforts are consisting of these days.
"Actually, they're recruiting one of my best friends. I'm sure you know Andre (Stringer). They tell me about the recruiting 
progress they're making with everybody. Basically right now we're just waiting on guys to make decisions.

"I'm close to a lot of guys on the team, too. Tasmin (Mitchell), Chris (Johnson) ... of them. 
I've met with them and talked to them about the programs. I asked about their likes and dislikes and it's all positive."

Courtney's official visit to Baton Rouge is scheduled for September 12. While he isn't entirely ruling out a change of heart, 
Courtney said he remains solid in his decision and that it would take a big shake up to steer him away from LSU.

"There are some schools that respect my commitment but some others are still thinking there's time for them to slide in," he laughed. 
"Alabama, Tennessee and Marquette are still coming. Oklahoma, too, but they kind of fell back a little. I'm solid for the most part. 
The only thing that might change it would be if the coaching staff changed. Something would have to happen with coach Johnson. 
Other than that I can't think of anything."


June 17, 2009

O’Bryant wrapped in Red, White and Blue
Lavel Johnson
MagnoliaPreps.com Basketball Analyst

Cleveland (Miss.) Eastside big man Johnny O'Bryant will take the court tonight in Mendoza, Argentina as a member of the inaugural 
USA U16 National team. O'Bryant has been in Colorado Springs, Colo. since June 6 preparing to represent his country. After 
participating in three days of trials which whittled the roster down from 18 to 12, O'Bryant has spent the last week practicing 
with the team in preparation for the FIBA Americas U16 Championship for Men.

The eight-team tournament will feature U16 national teams from the FIBA Americas Zone, which includes North, South and Central America 
and the Caribbean. Preliminary round-robin play will take place June 17-19, with the top two teams from each preliminary group advancing 
to the June 20 semifinals. The gold and bronze medal games will be contested June 21.

The USA has been placed in Group A along with Brazil, Puerto Rico and Venezuela; while Group B consists of host Argentina, Bahamas, Canada 
and Mexico. Opening against Brazil on June 17 (5:00 p.m. EDT), the U.S. will face Venezuela on June 18 (1:00 p.m. EDT) and will close out 
preliminary round play against Puerto Rico on June 19 (5:00 p.m. EDT).

A 6-foot-10 bundle of energy, O'Bryant is one of the top ranked players in the class of 2011, ranking no. 9 in the Rival class of 2011 rankings. 
A hard worker on the glass, O'Bryant has worked to be more than just a rebounder and defender recently displaying impressive moves off the 
dribble and a nice turnaround jumper inside.

After returning from participating for his country O'Bryant will be rejoining his Jackson Tigers AAU team for trips to North Augusta, South Carolina 
for the NIKE Peach Jam and Orlando, Florida for the AAU National Championships. 



June 5, 2009

AAU State Hoops Tourney Wrap-Up
Lavel Johnson
MagnoliaPreps.com Basketball Analyst

AAU state tourney action concluded a few weeks ago with champions being crowned for 
2009 in age groups for 12 & under thru 17 & under. While the 16 & under and 17 & under
tourneys came down to a battle between two veteran AAU clubs which are old rivals the 
14 & under and 15 & under tourneys saw a fresh new face flex its muscle.

17 & Under Tourney

For the fourth straight year the Jackson Panthers and the Jackson Tigers met in the finals 
of this age group with the Panthers taking home the Gold the last two years. The first quarter 
saw the two teams attempt to feel each other out with the Tigers holding a slight 15-13 
lead at the end of the stanza. The first big moment of the game arose in the first minutes 
of the second quarter. Already minus the services of swingman Kelvin Nixon, who was injured 
in Saturday pool play action, the Panthers leading scorer Dundrecous Nelson picked up his 
second foul of the game, sending him to the bench for the remainder of the first half. With 
Nelson out of the game the Panthers struggled to score and keep pace with the bigger and deeper
Tigers, falling behind 41-32 at the half. Nelson's return at the start of the third quarter seemed
to recharge the Panthers as they came charging back, taking a 53-52 lead into the fourth.  The 
Panthers held a 57-56 lead with just over 5 minutes left when the Tigers went on a 7-0 run to
take a 63-57 lead with 2:29 left and seemed to have the game pretty much in hand when Nelson 
fouled out about 30 seconds later. The Panthers, however, had one more push in them, cutting the
deficit to 3 with 49 seconds left, but 4 free throws and a Rashard Perkins slam proved to be 
too much for the Panthers to overcome as the Jackson Tigers took home the title by a final score 
of 72-66.

The Tigers were led by the backcourt duo of Andre Stringer and Edward Townsel with 20 and 13 
points respectively, but as mentioned earlier one of the Tigers' strengths is their depth and this
was displayed in the rest of their scoring as Rashard Perkins scored 11, Johnny O'Bryant scored 8,
Tyler Adams scored 6 and Trency Jackson scored 7. For the Panthers, Dundrecus Nelson poured in a 
game high 30 points followed by Desmond Haymon with 14.


In the consolation game the Mississippi Ballers captured third with an 83-69 win over the North
Mississippi Wildcats. The Ballers were led by LeAntwan Luckett with 22 points as they blew open a
close game in the second half. Supporting Luckett were Trey Felder with 15, Dantonio Evans with 10
and Demarcus Lewis with 10. The Wildcats were led by Brandon Blake with 13 points.

Semi-Final Scores

Jackson Panthers 71 North Mississippi Wildcats 54

Leading scorers: 

Panthers: Nelson 20, Haymon 22, Cook 13

Wildcats: Green 19, Blake 14, Harrelson 11


Jackson Tigers 84 Mississippi Ballers 74

Leading Scorers

Tigers: Jackson 23, Perkins 17, Adams 15, Stringer 13

Ballers: Childs 16, Evans 14, Luckett 12



16 & Under Tourney

The Jackson Tigers and Jackson Panthers hooked up in this final also and The Jackson Tigers made it
a clean sweep of the older age groups with a 68-55 win as the Panthers succumbed to the Tigers size
in the second half after playing them even in the first half. 

The Southern Phenoms took home third when Da House forfeited the consolation game. This was one of
three high finishes for the "new kid on the block" Southern Phenoms organization, which was competing
in its first years of AAU competition.

In the semis the Jackson Tigers held off the Southern Phenoms by a score of 53-49 while the Jackson
Panthers defeated Da House 64-42 in a double overtime thriller.

15 & Under Tourney

The Southern Phenoms captured their first state championship by way of a tie-breaker over The Jackson 
Tigers and the Byram Ballers. With only five entries, the teams were all just placed in a single pool 
with the intent being that the first thru third place finishes would be awarded based on how the teams
finished in pool play, but after the games had been played the three teams listed above all finished 
with a 3-1 record, resulting in the champion being named by a tie-breaker based on the point differential
in the games played between the three teams. The Jackson Tigers were awarded second while The Byram Ballers
finished third.

14 & Under Tourney

Champion: Southern Phenoms

Runner-up: Jackson Tigers

Third: Byram Ballers


Championship: Southern Phenoms 55 Jackson Tigers 50

Consolation: Byram Ballers 61 Louisiana Ball Stars Elite 58 in OT


13 & Under Tourney

Champion: Desoto County Wildcats

Runner-up: Northeast MS Ballers

Championship: Desoto County Wildcats 54 Northeast MS Ballers 43


12 & Under Tourney

Champion: MBA Hoops

Runner-up: New Orleans Storm

Third: Northeast MS Ballers


May 19, 2009

Nelson to SEC
By Jerry Meyer, Rivals.com Basketball Recruiting Analyst  

Rivals150 prospect Dundrecous Nelson, who is on his way back to 100 percent from injuries suffered 
in an automobile injury, has found his future home in the SEC.  

Nelson, a 5-foot-11, 180-pound athletic
combo guard from Jackson (Miss.) Murrah High School will stay in-state and play for Ole Miss. 

“Dundrecous wanted to play in the SEC, which we consider the Mecca of conferences right now,” said
Nelson’s travel team coach Lemond Roy of the Jackson Panthers. “They have been recruiting him for 
two years, and he really enjoyed his visit there.”  

Nelson, who was also recruited by Alabama, Mississippi State, Arkansas and 
UAB, hopes to take over where Chris Warren leaves off.  

“Chris Warren will be a senior when Dundreceous
gets there, and it’s such a big transition, it will be a great situation for Dundrecous to play the
back up role,” said Roy. “He will learn a lot from Chris and also get some minutes as a freshman. 
Then the plan is for Chris to pass the torch off to Dundreceous.”  

After averaging 17 points per game as a junior,
Nelson found his stride this past weekend when he scored 30 points in an AAU state final loss to the 
Jackson Tigers.

Highly ranked Murrah guard casts lot with Ole Miss
TODD KELLY • TKELLY@CLARIONLEDGER.COM • MAY 20, 2009

Ole Miss has been making the biggest recruiting push for Murrah basketball star Dundrecous Nelson.

That effort paid off Tuesday night when Nelson verbally committed to the Rebels. Nelson, a 5-foot-10 
junior guard, plans to make his choice official during the early signing period in November. 

A preseason Dandy Dozen pick last fall, Nelson averaged 17.2 points, 3.4 assists and 3 steals en route
to third-team All-Metro honors for the Mustangs.  

He also attracted interest from Mississippi State, Alabama, Arkansas, Kansas State, UAB and USC.  

"Ole Miss recruited me the hardest," Nelson said. "Coach (Andy) Kennedy has a lot of energy. I like 
their style of play. I think I'll be able to adapt to it."  

A spectacular leaper with tremendous quickness, Nelson is ranked as the nation's No. 110 prospect in
the Class of 2010 by HoopScoopOnline.com, a recruiting site based in Louisville, Ky. 

Nelson was also considered a Division I prospect as a wide receiver/defensive back before giving up 
football last season.  

Nelson's commitment is a breakthrough of sorts for Kennedy, who'll be entering his fourth season in 
Oxford next fall.  

"Dundrecous liked the coaches at Ole Miss and wanted to stay in Mississippi, so he decided to go on
and get it out of the way," said LeMond Roy, Nelson's summer-circuit coach with the Jackson Panthers.
"He wanted to be the first Mississippi player to sign with Ole Miss since Coach Kennedy's been there.
Maybe he can open up an avenue for more Mississippi players to go to Ole Miss." 

Nelson's junior season ended after he sustained a skull fracture in a one-vehicle accident Jan. 23 
near Murrah's campus. Nelson, who's back playing basketball, said Tuesday he's "about 90 percent" 
recovered.  

Nelson's teammate, Chris Ulmer, died in the accident but no charges are expected to be filed against 
Nelson, who was driving the SUV.  Nelson is the second junior in Mississippi to commit, following 
Provine forward Jalen Courtney (LSU).


March 6, 2009

CenterCourt Basketball Senior/JUCO Showcase

The 2nd Annual CenterCourt Basketball Senior/JUCO showcase will be held April 10th
and 11th at the Wesley Seminary College in Florence MS.
 
Wesley College is located on Highway 49 South (if you are coming from the Tennessee 
area) and North (from the Louisiana area), 11 miles south of Jackson MS.  A map will
be provided.
 
Coaches from the southern and midwest regions will be in attendance.  
 
April 10th will be the "SKILLS AND DRILLS" session, where each player is put through 
drills including shooting, passing and dribbling.  This session will begin at 6:00 p.m.
 
April 11th players will be assigned to teams of 8 man rosters with a minimum of 3 games.  
Time permitting; there will be an all-star selection and two 10 man roster teams who
will play in a 20 minute game.
 
Entry fee is $70.00 which includes two days of camp exposure and a T-Shirt.  
 
Please complete the application (name, address, height, weight, school, GPA, classification
"senior or JUCO") and submit a $35.00 deposit for your pre-registration fee.
 
Deadline for entry is April 3rd, 2009.  We are only accepting 55 players for this camp 
so sign up early!! For more information contact Ted Hutchins (601) 842-5178 or 
thutchi@hotmail.com or www.centerbasketball.com
 

March 4, 2009

Mississippi High School All-Star Basketball Game (boys roster)

Rosters were chosen Wednesday for the annual game, which is slated for July 11 at 
Mississippi College.

North Boys — Jordan Cornelius, 6-9, Lanier; Jalen Courtney, 6-7, Provine; DeMarco Cox, 6-7,
Yazoo City; Ife Eke, 6-5, Northwest Rankin; Desmond Haymon, 6-4, Williams-Sullivan; 
Kelsey Howard, 6-3, Vicksburg; Dundrecous Nelson, 5-10, Murrah; Jeverik Nelson, 6-7, 
Callaway; Rashad Perkins, 6-5, Starkville; Jeffery Simmons, 6-1, Greenwood; Edward Townsel 
6-0, Starkville; Ramone Wesley, 6-0, Cleveland East Side. Coaches — Greg Carter, Starkville; 
Leroy Cotton, Cleveland East Side.

South Boys — T.J. Amos, 6-4, Richton; Antonio Benton, 6-6, Oak Grove; Reshad Bickham, 6-6, 
Jim Hill; Dwayne Bingham, 6-4, Newton;  Jeremiah Dunnings, 6-0, Biloxi; Trency Jackson, 6-2,
Wingfield; Caleb Jett, 6-2, Brandon; Marcus McGee, 6-6, Brookhaven; Kevin Nixon, 6-3, 
Heidelberg; Keeslee Stewart, 5-8, Hinds AHS; Andre Stringer, 5-8, Forest Hill; Michael Young,
6-2, McLaurin. Coaches — Ron Norman, Wayne County; Crandal Porter, Newton.



February 3, 2009

Ex-Murrah Star Trey Johnson is headed to the NBA
 
The Cleveland Cavaliers are scheduled to sign former Murrah and Jackson State
star Trey Johnson to a 10-day contract today. Johnson, a 6-6 guard and an 
All-Metro pick for the Mustangs in 2002, had been averaging more than 20 points
per game for the Bakersfield Jam of the NBA's Developmental League.

Once he takes the floor for the Cavs, Johnson will be the 18th alumnus of Jackson
Public Schools to play in an NBA regular-season game.  

Here's the list (courtesy of basketball-reference.com) in reverse chronological
order from when the players began their careers in the league:
 
Monta Ellis, Lanier (no college): 2006-current
Justin Reed, Provine (Ole Miss): 2005-07
Maurice Williams, Murrah (Alabama): 2004-current
Maurice Carter, Forest Hill (LSU): 2004
Tang Hamilton, Lanier (Mississippi State): 2002
Othella Harrington, Murrah (Georgetown): 1997-08 
Ryan Lorthridge, Murrah (Jackson State): 1995
Lindsey Hunter, Murrah (Jackson State): 1994-current
James Robinson, Murrah (Alabama): 1994-2001
Joe Courtney, Callaway (Southern Miss): 1993-97
Lancaster Gordon, Jim Hil (Louisville)l: 1985-88
Audie Norris, Jim Hill (Jackson State): 1983-85
Sylvester Norris, Jim Hill (Jackson State): 1980
Harvey Catchings, Jim Hill (Hardin-Simmons): 1975-85
Cornell Warner, Lanier (Jackson State): 1971-77
A.W. Holt, Brinkley (Jackson State): 1971 
Plummer Lott, Jim Hill (Seattle University): 1967-69 
 

December 25, 2008
 
Texas Tech sign's ICC's Jenkins

MagnoliaPreps.com

Theron Jenkins, a 6-foot-6, 211-pound forward from Itawamba Community College,
was one of Texas Tech's four basketball signees during the NCAA early signing 
period.  "I just felt that Texas Tech was the place for me to go," said 
Jenkins, who has started each of the first 12 games of this season for the 
Indians. "I liked everything I saw at Texas Tech and I really like the style 
of basketball under Coach (Pat) Knight." 

The former NW Rankin High School standout is averaging 15 points, six rebounds 
and three assists for head coach Marty Cooper's club, who has won six straight
and is 9-3 this season. A role player behind a sophomore laden starting lineup,
Jenkins averaged seven points and four rebounds per game as a freshman for the
30-4 ICC Indians, who captured the division, state and regional championships. 

"This is really a big deal for Theron and our program," said Cooper, who said 
he has a great deal of respect for Coach Knight's program at Texas Tech."Playing
in the Big 12, Theron will get a chance to compete against some of the nation's
best players and programs. And this is yet another example we'll show our recruits
of an ICC player signing with and competing in one of the NCAA's elite conferences.

October 14, 2008

Nelson drawing offers

Jerry Meyer
Rivals.com Basketball Recruiting Analyst

The state of Mississippi is loaded with talented underclassmen. One of those prospects
is 2010 point guard Dundrecous Nelson who has offers from five regional schools. At this 
point Alabama, Arkansas, UAB, Ole Miss and Mississippi State have offered the ultra 
athletic 5-foot-11, 180-pound guard from Jackson (Miss.) Murrah High School.  

According to his travel team coach LeMond Roy of the Jackson Panthers, Alabama, Ole 
Miss and UAB were the first to make their way to Murrah High School this fall, and it just 
so happens that these three schools are at the top of Nelson's school list. Mississippi State,
Arkansas, Kansas  State and USC round out Nelson's school list. Both Mississippi State 
and USC checked in on Nelson last week.

Although small in stature, Nelson's athleticism and scoring ability allow him to play both 
guard positions.

"I haven't seen a kid be able to stay in front of Dundrecous," said Coach Roy. "If he wants 
to get to the basket he gets to the basket. He shoots it well enough right now where defenders 
can't just play off him, but I expect his shot to continue to get better."

Nelson is the No. 119 ranked prospect in the Rivals150.



September 29, 2008
Isiah Canaan Chooses Murray State

After a weekend visit to the Murray State campus 6'0" Biloxi (Miss.) HS PG Isiah Canaan has 
decided to become a Racer. 

A quality floor general who possesses a strong handle, a quick first step and a solid jumper with 
three point range, Canaan should garner floor time quickly with the Racers. 

"I really connected with the coaches and players." said Canaan "The character of the coaches really
stood out to me and how that character runs throughout the program. I like how the community and 
city rally around the school." 

A Biloxi Sun-Herald All-South Mississippi pick last season, Canaan averaged 18 points and 6 assist 
per game while leading Biloxi High School to a 25-7 record and a state tournament appearance. Canaan
chose the Racers over Tulane, Arkansas State, New Orleans and South Alabama. He previously took
visits to Arkansas State and Tulane.



September 24, 2008
Shaunessy Smith Decides on Bulldogs

"I just committed 2 Mississippi State-Shaunessy Smith" read the text received last night. 

After watching as Smith took a visit to Southern Cal a couple of weekends ago the Bulldog staff moved 
swiftly to lock up their top instate priority. Besides USC Smith was also recruited by Baylor and Clemson. 

"Probably the biggest factor in Shaun's decision was the fact that Mississippi State is close to home and 
he wanted to keep a close relationship with his family." Said Noxubee County head coach T. J. Billups, a 
former Mississippi State player.

"He's very comfortable with the coaches and players up there. Mississippi State has been recruiting him
the longest but they never pressured him to commit early, they just let him decide at his on pace."

A smooth athletic wing scorer, who can beat you shooting the three or attacking the rim, Smith averaging 
25.1 ppg, 7 rpg, 2 apg and 2 spg last season for a 22-11 team, but missed much of the spring/summer circuit 
with a hip injury. 

Smith is Mississippi State's first commitment in the 2009 recruiting class.




September 8, 2008
Middle Tennessee snares 2nd Magnolia commitment

Following a weekend visit to the Blue Raiders' Murfreesboro, Tennessee campus 6-foot-7 PF Jontaveous Sulton
of Yazoo City decided to cast his lot with the Sun Belt program. 

"Jontaveous really felt comfortable with the whole situation." said Yazoo City assistant coach Jodfrey Washington,
"He got a chance to interact with the staff and players and he just felt really at home there." 

Sulton who averaged 15 points and 8 rebounds a game last year is an athletic 4 man who could eventually play 
facing the goal. A strong rebounder who finishes well around the rim, Sulton also received interest from Tulane, 
Murray State, Jacksonville State, UAB and South Alabama.

Sulton becomes the Blue Raiders third commitment for the class of 2009 and the second from Mississippi, joining
 6'2" SG John David Little of Olive Branch, who committed about a month ago.




August 7, 2008
Magnolia Teams Impress from Coast to Coast

With the conclusion of the AAU 17 and Under nationals last week in Orlando, quite possibly the most successful 
summer travel team season ever for our Magnolia State teams came to a close. Magnolia State teams placed in
three separate divisions at AAU Nationals, with two others making finals appearances in the Classic (consolation) 
tournament. 

The top story coming out of AAU Nationals is the Jackson Panthers' medal finish at the 17 and Under AAU
National Tournament. For the tournament the Panthers posted a 7-2 record advancing all the way to the eighth 
place medal game where they fell by two to finish thirteenth, AAU awards medals to the top fourteen place
finishers at nationals.  What made the Panthers' finish such a big deal is that, by this writers recollection, the 
Panthers' medal finish is the first ever medal finish in the 17 and under division for a Magnolia State team. With 
the 17 and Under Tournament being the last one to be played out of the 15, 16 and 17 year old age groups 
The Panthers' finish served to cap off Mississippi's best year ever on the AAU National scene.

At the AAU 16 and Under National Tournament the Madison County based Mississippi Ballers placed twelfth. The
Ballers, posting a 7-2 record for the tournament, advanced all the way to the eighth place medal game but had to
settle for twelfth after having to depart early to catch their flight.

While the Ballers were holding it down in the National Tourney the Jackson Panthers Select were making a run in
the 16 and Under Classic. Five straight wins in the Classic put the Panthers in the Classic championship game 
where they finally ran out of gas finishing second with a final record of 6-3 for the Tournament.

The AAU 15 and Under National Tournament presented similar but better results, as one Magnolia Squad placed 
while another had a strong performance in the Classic.

The Jackson Tigers stared the summer portion of the travel team season off for the Magnolia State teams with a 
fifth place finish at the AAU 15 and Under Nationals. The Tigers posted a 7-1 record for the tournament with their 
only loss being a close call to the eventual national champion Memphis Stallions in the quarterfinals. The Tigers
regrouped following that slip to reel of two more wins to secure their fifth place finish. 

Also finishing strong in the 15 and under division was the Northeast Mississippi based
"Da House Lighthouse" squad who captured the championship of the Classic Tournament. After a disappointing 
1-2 finish in pool play the "House" caught fire in the Classic running off five straight wins to take the championship.

Congratulations go out to each of the players and coaches for each of the teams. Great job guys! An outstanding
year on the AAU national scene it was. Others teams participating in AAU Nationals were Jackson Gators (13),
Meridian Elite (14), Jackson Tigers (16) & (17)



July 14, 2008
Battle at the Bluff: day one
Jerry Meyer
Rivals.com Basketball Recruiting Analyst

MEMPHIS- Many of the first day games were lopsided affairs at the Battle at the Bluff, with the intriguing match
ups slated for day two. 
 
The most entertaining game of day one came in the 16-under bracket when the Jackson Panthers Select 
defeated Memphis Select. In a game marked by athleticism no player stood out more than Panthers' guard 
Dundrecous Nelson who shook up the house with a couple thunderous dunks in traffic. Nelson also mixed in 
a three-pointer and dropped off several nice assist passes on the break. He finished with 15 points.

Nelson does need to tighten his handle and refine his shot, but he has the upside to work his way into four-star
status in the 2010 class. He already claims offers from Arkansas, Ole Miss and UAB and is getting interest 
from Oklahoma and Clemson. Arkansas presently sits at the top of his list.

Four-star point guard Andre Stringer, who normally runs with the Jackson Tigers but is with the Panthers at
this tournament, might not have the athletic upside of Nelson, but when it comes to making plays right now, 
Stringer gets it done. He gets great elevation on his confident jumper and has the upper body strength to make
plays in the lane. He scored 12 points in the win and made a number of impressive interior passes on the drive.

Stringer is getting the heaviest interest from Oklahoma, Mississippi State and Florida State.

Holding down the middle for the Panthers is power forward Jalen Courtney, who scored 13 points. Courtney has
a top four of Arkansas (offer), Missouri, Ole Miss and Oklahoma. He favors Missouri because of the speed and
intensity of their style of play.

Leading the Panthers in scoring was left handed shooting guard Desmond Haymon who fired in 21 points with
four three-pointers and some crafty drives to the basket.

For Memphis Select 2011 prospect Cedrick McAfee is a prospect to keep an eye on. A strong athlete who can
also shoot the ball, McAfee dropped in 17 points.


Go West Young Man

Most of the state's top summer programs focus on AAU nationals but others prefer to travel the non-AAU travel
team circuit This is the route that MBA Hoops choose to travel. 

While the rest of the Magnolia state teams were trying to win an AAU National Championship MBA Hoops traveled 
out west to participate in more exposure oriented tournaments. MBA participated in the Adidas 64 Tournament in 
Las Vegas, posting a 3-1 tournament record, and in the Duel in the Desert Tournament in Phoenix(3-2 record), and 
while MBA didn't win any championships they did garner a lot of exposure for their stable of talented underclassmen.




Class of 2011 strength on display

The strong finishes for the two 15 and under teams, who finished one and two in the AAU 15 and Under State 
Tournament, served as a strong example of the strength of the Class of 2011 in Mississippi. Further reinforcing 
that strength is that while these two teams were Playing at AAU Nationals two more 15 and under Magnolia squads
were in Memphis at the "Battle at the Bluff" facing off in the semifinals of the 15 and under bracket of that tournament. 
MBA Hoops and the Jackson Panthers were both among the five Mississippi teams that qualified for AAU nationals, 
the Jackson Celtics being the fifth, but decided to take the shorter less expensive trip just up the road to Memphis. 
MBA Hoops captured a four point win over the Jackson Panthers and went on to finish second, with a 5-1 overall 
record, to a strong Memphis YOMCA squad. The Panthers finished 3-2 with the two losses being to the two finalists
by four and two points.

With the close of summer activity its time to revisit our player rankings. Keep watch for an updated list soon.


Hoops Preview & Preseason Rankings
By Lavel Johnson 10-29-07

Balls are bouncing in gyms around the state as teams prepare for the season ahead, and 
with the start of that season upon us it’s time to take a look at how it is shaping up. Come
inside as we release our Magnoliapreps.com top 13 preseason rankings and take a look
at the teams to beat in each class.

As usual the 5A and 4A divisions boast an array of talented teams. 5A boast a strong group 
of teams at the top but only has a handful of teams which are truly championship contenders.
4A on the other hand is the deepest division with more quality teams and championship 
contenders than any other division, that is even more so the case this year as former 5A 
contenders Moss Point and Forest Hill move to the 4A ranks.

Our preseason Rankings
Last season’s final record in parentheses

1. Provine(26-10); Coach Luther Riley’s defending 5A State Champion Rams hold down the top
spot in our rankings and are loaded for another championship run. The Rams welcome back a
talented group of players led by 6’4” Sr. Scottie Haralson, 6’6” Jr. Emory Kelly and 6’7”
Soph. Jalen Courtney. Coach Riley added to that group of returnees bringing in 6’2” Jr. Carl
Blair, a talented transfer from Houston, Texas, in what shaped up as essentially a late 
summer trade for Soph. forward Stephon Smith, who moved to Texas. 
 
2. New Hope(32-6); Last year’s 4A State Tournament runner-ups, the Trojans actually finished 
ranked ahead of the Rams in last season’s final rankings. New Hope is led by the senior 
foursome of 6’9” Rashanti Harris, 6’2” Dale Hughes, 6’0 Ray Knight and 6’4” Kendrick Bush.
The foursome will be entering their third season together as starters and are seeking a third 
straight appearance in the Big House where they will seek to take home that elusive 4A state 
championship.     

3. Lanier(39-3); Anyone that knows anything about high school hoops in this state knows that 
the route to a No. 1 ranking in this state goes through the Bulldogs of Lanier, the defending
4A State Tournament and Grand Slam champions. Despite losing last year’s player of the year,
R.L. Horton, as well as two more starters, Lanier brings back more than enough firepower to
challenge for a title. Lanier will be led this year by a trio of returning seniors starters,
6’5” Lamar Williams, 6’5” Thurley Love and 6’3” Terry Church (I know that adds up to six starters 
but so what, sue me.). Added to this group is talented 6’0” sophomore Marcellus Hansberry,
a transfer from Terry as the Bulldogs look for their 4th straight 4A state championship.

4. Forest Hill(26-11); The Rebels look to build off of their 5A State Tournament runner-up finish
of last year as they drop to 4A this season. Top players: Terrell Kennedy 6’5” Sr.; Andre Stringer
5’10” Soph.; Joshua Moore 6’2” Sr. 

5. Starkville(30-3); Top Players: Latavious Williams 6’8” Sr.; Chris Brand 6’8” Jr.;
Jonathan Harris 6’3” Sr.

6. Oxford(29-8); Top Players: Justin Gilliard 6’4” Sr; Dan Hicks 6’6” Jr;Kenny Mullins 6’4” Sr;
Keith Searcy 6’4” Jr.   

7. Picayune(30-6); Top Players: Chris Dees 6’5” Sr.; Brandon Fortenberry 6’2” Sr.; Ben Daly 6’5” Sr 

8. Moss Point(17-9); Top Players: Travis Rasco 6’5” Sr.; Travis Jackson 6’7” Sr.; Rod Little 6’1” Sr; 
Avery Ingram 6’2” Sr. 

9. St. Stanislaus(29-9); Top Players: Pedro Maciel 6’0” Jr.; Thomas Camargo 6’6” Jr. 

10. Madison Central(21-13); Top Players: Jeremy Adams 6’2” Jr.; Sylvester Collins 6’8” Sr; 
Jacoby Pittman 6’9” Sr. 

11. Humphreys County(28-9); Top Players: Brandon Mitchell 6’2” Sr.; Michael Starks 6’7” Jr.;
Lonnie Contrell 6’5” Jr.

12. Meridian(20-10); Top Players: Anthony Scott 6’4” Sr.; Deshun Carter 6’5” Jr.

13. Wingfield(26-10); Top Players: Chris Wallace 6’2” Sr.; Ananza Richardson 6’3” Sr.

5A teams to watch: Brandon(26-10), Gulfport(26-9), Murrah(16-16) and Olive Branch(29-1) 

4A teams to watch: Northeast Lauderdale(25-10), Callaway(8-19), Yazoo City(22-12), Canton(23-9),
Vicksburg(19-12), Nouxbee County(17-13), McComb(27-7), Mendenhall(25-7), Greenwood(24-8)

3A
Humphreys County gives 3A a quality representative in the top 13 rankings and right behind them
is Pass Christian(28-7) which comes down from the 4A ranks. Others to watch are: 
Jefferson County(25-7), Nettleton(21-8), Columbia(25-8) and Cleveland Eastside(16-17)

2A
Along with 4A 2A year in and year has a deep, competitive field of teams. Last year was a great 
example of this as the 2A state tournament was by far the most exciting tournament of the 5 played,
with every game going to the wire. Defending champion Scott Central(26-12) returns with a solid cast
to again challenge for the gold ball. Hinds AHS(29-5) comes off of a strong season that fell short
of the Big House, at the hands of Scott Central, but again is one of the favorites. Defending 3A
champion Forest(32-5) drops to 2A this season and has to be considered in the mix also. Others to
watch are: Piney Woods(21-4), Taylorsville(23-10, Newton(24-10), Tchula Marshall(28-9), and
Hollandale Simmons(25-7)

1A
Myrtle(33-7) looks to finish unfinished business after falling in the 1A state championship game 
last season. Their biggest challenges looks to come from Shelby Broadstreet(32-6), which moved
down from the 2A ranks, in the north and Mount Olive(20-10) in the south.

Former Mississippi high school players (post-season collegiate awards):

Trey Johnson, 6’5”, Guard, Jackson State, Murrah H.S., Jackson, MS  
Player of the Year, 1st Team All-SWAC 

Charles Rhodes, 6’8”, Forward, Mississippi State, Lanier H.S., Jackson, MS 
2nd Team All-SEC  

Jeremy Wise, 6’2”, Guard, Southern Miss, Murrah H.S., Jackson, MS 
Freshman/Newcomer of the Year, 2nd Team All-Conference USA,
1st Team Conference USA ALL Freshman Team

Stanford Speech, 6’2”, Guard, Mississippi Valley State, 
Jim Hill H.S., Jackson, MS. – 1st Team All-SWAC
  
Isaac Wells, 6’8”, Forward, Arkansas State, Lanier H.S., Jackson, MS
2nd Team All-Sun Belt

Courtney Bradley, 6’5”, Forward, Jacksonville State, Raymond H.S., Utica, MS 
1st Team All-Ohio Valley Conference

William Byrd, 6’7”, Forward, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, West Tallahatchie H.S., Webb, MS. 
1st Team All-SWAC 

Delvin Thompson, 6’2”, Guard, Alcorn State, Jefferson County H.S., Fayette, 
MS 2nd Team All-SWAC

Lamar Sanders, 6’6”, Forward, Lamar, Hickory Flat H.S., Hickory, MS
Newcomer of the Year, 2nd Team All-Southland

Kevin Sims, 5’10”, Guard, Tulane, Forest Hill H.S., Jackson, MS 
1st Team Conference USA ALL Freshman Team

Congratulations go out to all these young men for a job well done.

State Tournament Notes - 02/28/07 
Jackson Public Schools sent an astonishing nine teams (six boys and three girls) to the Coliseum. 
Now comes the hard part...taking home some hardware.>

Starkville and New Hope held up well for Northeast Mississippi last week, as each, playing at 
home, took a win over a ranked JPS opponent to win the North 5A and 4A state tournaments respectively. 
Now the question is can they do it again in the “Big House”?

Shelby Broad Street has defeated Coahoma County three times in four games this season but 
with all the marbles on the line can the Jaguars deny the Red Panthers their third straight state
championship.

The 3A tournament promises to be an exciting event with a number of evenly matched teams
participating and the season for 3A went much the same. But despite the competitiveness of the 
division no team has stepped up to rise into the rankings. The question is can one team step up 
to put itself in the conversation of top teams in the state.

R.L. Horton and Ravern Johnson both have a lot on the line. Not only is each seeking a third
straight state crown but how each performs in the “Big House” could go a long way in helping decide
who wins this year’s Mr. Basketball award.

Just as Horton and Johnson are posied to state their case for this year’s Mr. Basketball a number 
of Juniors have center stage to start their campaign for next years Mr. Basketball. Keep an eye on 
6’4” WG Scottie Haralson of Provine, 6’7” F/C Latavious Williams of Starkville and 6’9” F/C Rashanti
Harris of New Hope

Notes by Lavel Johnson
 
 


Recruiting Updates as of 03/13/07



6’8” WF Brandon Crooks of Genesis One has committed to
Southern Mississippi.



6’6” WF Jenirro Bush of East Okitbbeha H.S. has committed to Arkansas.



6’0” WG Cord Jones of Hernando has committed to Jackson State.


6'7" Forward Wesley Jones from Pearl River Community College committed to Ole Miss.


6'1" PG/WG John Sexton from West Union H.S. committed to William & Mary.




  
Mississippi Early Period Signees....





Raven Johnson 6'7" WF Coahoma County H.S. - Clarksdale

Mississippi State University


Maurice Bolden 6'9" PF Wingfield H.S. - Jackson

University of Southern Mississippi


Robin Sykes 6'8" PF Saint Martin H.S. - Biloxi

 North Carolina Wilmington


Darryl Arnold 6'5" WF Piney Woods H.S.

Southeastern Louisiana University


Xavier Ruth 6'3" WG Shannon H.S. - Shannon

Delta State University


Horace McGloster 6'7" WF Genesis One Prep - Mendenhall

University of Houston


Javon Moses 6'8" PF Genesis One Prep - Mendenhall

Duquesene