B'More Elite Invitational is Inviting, plus Cold and Thick

Ron Bailey, Publisher

Second iteration of event will be extremely competitive.

May 3, 2010 - When asked about this week's Second Annual Baltimore Elite Invitational, Carlton 'Bubb' Carrington said colorfully "It's going to be thick as frozen syrup up in there", when asked about the level of competition anticipated at the tournament. He's not lying, players, coaches and observers alike should should bring a coat and not expect to eat pancakes - there will not be any on the floor.

"I expect this will be one of the best events talent wise, this area has seen awhile" he continued. "At least 15 guys in the the top 100 guys in the country will be there".

Mike Gbinije pats during training camp.

In Carrington's estimation, that includes such players as Mike Gilchrist, Rakeem Christmas, Mike Gbinije, Nick Faust and a host of others. These players represented Invitational participants Team Final (Philly), Team Takeover (DC) and Nike Baltimore Elite. When adding the likes of the NY Gauchos, Albany City Rocks, NJ Playaz and NC Elite, Carrington's claim is clearly merited.

The event is sold out except for several 14 and under spots presently available, and the field, 14-under through 17-under, has been kept purposely small, as 24 teams are competing, with three squads per pool (consisting of three squads per such grouping).

"We wanted quality as opposed to quantity" shared Carrington on the tourney's design and implementation, both he noted have been greatly assisted by Keith Stevens, Team Takeover's director. "We wanted the teams to get enough rest, which helps avoid injury. We don’t want to be one of those AAU tournaments with 980 teams".

Also driving the decision not to have a plethora of teams play is Carrington's belief the NCAA is attempting to steer confab organizers away from mammoth tournaments. The end result is two games per day, starting Friday and ending on Championship Sunday (May 7th - 9th).

Besides well rested, talented teams, many of the 16 and under crews have another motivation to compete hard; for those squads sponsored by NIKE and given B'More Elite Invitational status as a NIKE Qualifier, the winner earns an automatic berth to that company's Peach Jam tournament.

All action will occur at Hoop Magic Sports Academy, a highly regarded facility owned and managed by Curtis Symonds. For directions, schedule and specifics, see their website, previously linked.

As Carrington said, "it's going to be thick as frozen syrup" at this year's Baltimore Elite Invitational. Be there with your coat on. And leave the pancakes at home.