Maryland Invitational’s Unsung Standouts Pt. 2

Ron Bailey, Publisher

September 30, 2008 - Part 2 of Maryland Invitational’s Undercover Standouts picks up where Part 1 left off; presenting talented high school aged student athletes who for whatever reason have not received the attention deserved.

As a side note, there is a chance this could be the last Charlie Weber event – With the possible elimination of the NCAA Division I open period in April, and Weber’s disinterest in having an event in during the July open period, the fat lady could be singing for his tourneys with 2008” Maryland Invitational.

Max Lennox – A 6’1” guard, Lennox is just recovering from knee surgery, nevertheless got to the cup almost at will, which is what he does. His injury early in the BRYC Tarheel’s championship loss to a talented Nike Baltimore Elite crew was a definite set back, as the team missed his ability to find open teammates.

Presently Max is a low/mid division 1 recruit, but can catapult himself greatly if his outside shooting prowess improves (Being impacted his recruitment). To Max’s credit, he no longer hesitates on pulling the outside trigger – he’s now willing to shoot. Expect Lennox’s shooting efficiency to improve during this his junior campaign at W.T. Woodson (VA).

John Underwood – Standing 6’9”, Underwood has length and mobility, which coupled with his ball handling and perimeter skills, makes him very formidable. Going forward, John must become stronger and more focused on playing in the paint, with force.

As of right now, mid-majors are on Underwood, though with the above stated work the biggies would start drooling. John, a senior, is in his first year at Princeton Day (MD).

Kevin Smith – If Philly is 1a for creating tough guards, B’More is 1b. Look no further than Kevin Smith for proof; standing 5’11”, Smith, who attends Freedom Academy (MD) is a hoops pit bull, capable of filling up the twine and battling down low for the ball, all in the same sequence.

Though he is a good scorer, Smith needs to concentrate on becoming a better ball distributor, since guys his height are point guards in high major ball, a level at which Kevin could possibly play with such work. He has time given his sophomore status.