Rbk Headliner Camp Provides Exposure as Planned

Ron Bailey, Publisher

June 4, 2007 – The Reebok Headliner Camp, held at Chantilly, VA’s state of the art athletic training facility Hoop Magic Sports Academy last weekend, did what it was designed to do – not only will a select few be invited to participate in the shoe company’s Reebok U and Breakout Underclass national level, invitation only events – but increased exposure and experience were garnered by all participants.

Both Saturday and Sunday consisted of an aggressive schedule of drills, followed by five on five play. In following that road map, the close to 80 players in attendance offered the camp’s director, Randy White, and his staff plenty of opportunities to make evaluations.

According to White, his staff makes “our comments, and then we ship them out” to Chris Rivers, Reebok’s Director of Basketball. Rivers will in turn cull the information forwarded him from not only this camp, but the other five Headliner Camps held simultaneously last weekend, and a final decision on additional national invites will then be determined. Check out www.ballercircuit.com Tuesday, for that listing.

In anticipation of that, i95Ballerz.com has put together an all-event first team, totally independent of Reebok’s pending determinations.

First Team:

Isaiah Philmore – Sophomore, 6’6”+, 212 lb, efficient forward punished the rims via filling lanes on the fast break and posting in the half court. Currently a 4/3, Philmore is working on the skills that will allow him to successfully compete as a small forward in college. Indicated committment to do so. Efficient offensive player, that rebounds and hustles back on defense with equal passion. Had an exceptional game Saturday, by closing the event with 27 points – mostly dunks - which were a direct result of his hustle and drive. Is i95Ballerz.com’s Headliner Camp MVP. Attends John Carroll (MD), and does AAU work for the Delaware Sharpshooters.

Kevon Moore – Junior, 6’2”, 180lb combo guard. Has worked to become more of a point guard, and it shows, saying “I’m trying to get everybody involved”. Can get to the cup and finish, or pull up for jumpers of the three pointer or mid-range variety. Is continuing work on his defensive intensity. Kevon played like one of the most seasoned and experienced players in the camp. Will attend Montrose Christian for his senior year, and for last played has participated in the Triple Threat (AAU) organization.

Mo Creek – Sophomore, 6’4”, 170lb guard/swingman. Known as a prodigious shooter, Creek ran some point guard, defended, rebounded, and hustled – which he has done all spring. Even though his jump shot wasn’t as automatic as usual, by focusing on other facets of the game, Creek still proved himself one of the best in attendance. As he put it, “I’ve been working on everything…I’m trying to be the best”. With increased handle and learning to respond to game situations, he will be along that path. Is an Oxon Hill (MD) Clipper, as well as a key player with Triple Threat (AAU).

Frank Ben-Eze - Junior, 6’8”, 220lb center. Easiest the strongest guy in the camp, Ben-Eze attacked the rim with aplomb, as well as controlled the boards. Displayed an awkward but increasingly effective sweeping hook-like shot in the lane. Frank is becoming a physical beast, and seems to be learning more of the game’'s nuisances than previously. Was appreciative of accolades afterward, and wants to continue improving. Attends Bishop O’Connell (VA), and plays for the DC Blue Devils (AAU)

Kendall Marshall – Freshman, 6’1”+, 170lb guard. Makes good decisions; a heady player who generally makes the right basketball play. Decent shooter. Needs to get stronger (upper body and legs) - which will make his pull up jumpers more lethal and help in defending – in addition to becoming quicker. As a freshman, should grow, which in addition to possibly helping offset the quickness issue, will guarantee valuable experience gained by playing with top players: Case in point – As highligted by an attending coach, when dribbling on the break Marshall is not lightning fast, but already knows to push the ball in front of him, thereby increasing his ability to advance the rock quickly. Plays at Bishop O’Connell and for Boo Williams (AAU).

The second team will follow shortly.