DIARY OF A FEMALE BALLER: SKYE OWEN 2022 (IEXCEL) ENTRY #1

SKYE OWEN

Hello  basketball world,

My name is Skye “The Limit” Owen. I am in the class of 2022 and play my AAU ball for IEXCEL. Thank you to Gthing for giving me the opportunity to take you all on my day to day journey. I hope you guys enjoy it as much as i do.

Monday   11/20/17

The first day of the week, Monday started and ended as just another normal day. When I first arrived at school I remembered that I had a religion test so I studied during the morning assembly. I was in class when she taught the stuff that was going to be on the test, so it wasn't to hard to memorize the answers cause I kind of already knew them. Other than that in school ,I just went through my normal classes in the morning. For the latter part of the day, my classmates and I took photos that would go in the yearbook. We were asked to make a 1 and 8 with the students in the class. It took a while for us to figure this out. The photographer and gym teacher were shouting from the roof ,directing the teacher to tell us where to go in the schoolyard . It was chaotic and kind of funny ,we thought we were all done and then they had us do the 18 all over again on the front lawn ,which took a while again. Then we went back to the schoolyard and took photos with our friends. I chose where and how we should pose for the photo and it came out nice. After school was better than during school because I went to the gym. I was able to get a lot of drills done and work on some of my weaknesses. On slow moving days like Monday and Thursday going to the gym is obviously the highlight of my day.

Tuesday  11/21/17

On Tuesday, I went to visit a high school that is interested in me attending.The coach is very nice and has been watching me play for a few years now. The principal and the president of the school were also very nice. The president gave me a tour of the school. Once the tour was over, we were taken to the principal’s office who gave us more information about the school. That visit ended about mid- day. So I got something to eat and headed to meet with my trainer. My trainer worked me out very hard. It was a great workout. I went through a lot of drills that are practical for game situations. Once I left my trainer, I went to watch a varsity practice at a high school that is interested in me coming to their school. I really enjoyed watching the practice and the girls were going very hard. The drills were good. It was killing me that I was only able to watch because I really wanted to play and join the practice. The coach was very cool and seemed pretty knowledgeable. After the practice, I went home and prepared for school the next day. I was looking forward to it because we were going on a class trip.

Wednesday   11/22/17

Wednesday, my favorite day of the week . It was a fun filled day that led from one activity to the next. My class went on a trip to the tenement museum in Manhattan. The tenement museum is a museum filled with artifacts from the Sweatshop era ( late - early 1800’s ). It was interesting because we went inside of the building where the immigrants lived. They had staples in the walls to keep the building from collapsing. My class was split up into 3 groups of 12. We got to chose our groups so my friends were in my group . After a while, some of the kids in my group started to get headaches because the room was small and the their bodies may not have been used to the fumes. When we got back to school from the trip, it was about 12:00 pm, so we went to lunch and after lunch we had gym. When the day was over, I talked to my friends outside then went to the gym to workout. When I was at the gym my mom called and told me that my aunt from Florida was with her and that she was going to be staying until Monday. This was great to hear because i hadn't seen my aunt in about a year. When I got home my mom and aunt were there laughing in the kitchen about a joke. Then I found out from my dad that not only was my aunt going to be there till Monday but my brother was also coming to visit from his college till Monday. It would be great to spend time with both him and my  aunt. Since I didn't have school the next day, I stayed up until my brother got home it was only about 11 o'clock pm. My Brother and I talked for a little and then watched TV and did some strength and conditioning work like I do everyday.

Thursday  11/23/17

Thursday, Thanksgiving day was both an early and busy day. I got up at 5am and went to the gym to workout because I knew I wasn't going to have time during the day to because I was going to help my mom cook. When I got home I went to lay back down and then an hour or 2 later my mom woke me up saying that she needed some help cooking. So I helped. I cooked the candied yams and my mother cooked her family famous macaroni and cheese. It was great she had cooked 3 pans of it because we were expecting many people to be at my other aunts house for Thanksgiving. Each of the cooks in my family are assigned a couple of things to cook. My grandmother cooked the turkey and ham, that was delicious. My other aunt brought the pies and her great pineapple upside down cake . There was more food but way to much to name each one.  It was a long day.

Friday  11/24/17

On Friday or “ Black Friday” my mom, my brother and I went shopping . We ended up splitting from my brother. So I went to the stores with my mom while my brother shopped by himself. The mall was crowded. You could tell everyone was intent on buying something they wanted. There was a certain flow of the walk that almost everyone in the mall understood and followed. They were all walking on the right side of the mall. Most of the time I don't usually like shopping but this time I did. When we first got to the mall we went to meet my cousin who was visiting from her college in Pittsburgh. My grandmother and mother helped my aunt pick out an outfit. I usually do not like black Friday shopping but this year it was great.  

Saturday  11/25/17

Saturday morning I woke up pretty early and then woke my brother up so he would take me to the gym. Even  though my brother did not work out with me it was a lot of fun having him in the gym. We joked around and also did drills. I was able to get a lot of shots up because he was there and could rebound for me. We first went to my grandmother's house to see how she was doing and to see my aunt who is leaving on Monday. After that my dad called my brother and my mom and dad met my brother and I at my grandmother's house and then we headed to the movies. We went to  see “ Thor ragnarok “ it was a good movie with lots of fighting and action and a couple of funny jokes. I personally thought justice league was better but that is just my personal opinion.

Sunday   11/26/17

My Sunday began with an early workout with one of my trainers. It was a great workout. I got to play against a few high school girls, work on my shot and finishing around the rim. When I got home my brother and I watched 2 episodes of “Stranger Things” on Netflix. It is a pretty good show, then I headed to the gym again to warm up for my game. The game was good. This week we had no team practice because of Thanksgiving but we still did great. After the game I headed to my grandmother's house again because my cousin, aunt , and brother visit was coming to an end. They are going to be leaving tomorrow.  We all talk about different things  and crack jokes. It was nice to be able to spend time with all of them because I do not see them much.

CHECK OUT SKYE OWEN ON A DIARY OF FEMALE BALLER THIS WEEK ON 11/27/17

IMAGE PROFILE: GABBY ROSS

Name: Gabby Ross

AAU Team: New Jersey Sparks

Class: 2023

Position: Guard

State: New Jersey

Strengths: Control

Profile: Skilled point guard with great size, not the flashy type though. Coachable... Size... Strong... Finishes at the basket... Plays under control...

IMAGE PROFILE: KAYLA HOPSON

Name: Kayla Hopson

AAU Team: New Jersey Sparks

Class: 2023

Position: Combo-Guard

State: NJ

Strengths: Athletic

Profile: Lead guard with great athleticism to help complement her game. Quick off dribble... Slasher... Leaper... Fast... 

DIARY OF A FEMALE BALLER: ANIYAH BOSTON 2023 (CENTRAL JERSEY CARDINALS)

ANIYAH & MOM

Hey guys,

Here is my last and final week of “Diary of Female baller”.  Thank you all for taking the time to read my diary entries for the past 8 weeks.

Monday 11/13

Today was a good day. In my History class, we started looking at a video about Meriwether Lewis and William Clark expedition in History which was actually cool to learn about. In math class the units and liter project I was working on had to be decorated which meant I had to add some color and pictures to it. In gym I had to play California Kickball. After school my grandpa picked me up and took me home, where I did my homework and studied until my mom picked me up. Today I went to a workout with Coach Kerry from G.R.I.T basketball, which was pretty intense. He pushed me to perform above the level I was comfortable at. After the workout I headed home, showered, ate dinner and started to prepare myself for tomorrow.

Tuesday 11/14

Today in History, we finished the rest of the Meriwether Lewis and William Clark expedition video and had to answered questions about the video. In my Language Arts we finally finished the book “The Giver”.  In gym, they gave us a choice of what we wanted to do and of course I chose basketball. For the rest of my classes today we had reviews, because we will be taking our last test of the marking period. After school my grandpa picked me up and we went to Mcdonalds then home. I headed to the basketball warehouse which was a good workout as always. After the warehouse I headed home and prepare for the next day.

Wednesday 11/15

Today in school was full of reviews in my core classes of the work we did over this marking period. Tomorrow is test day for some of my classes. My aunt picked me up today and took me home where I just studied some math problems. At 5pm I headed up to Rutgers Prep for the last day of Fall Training. Im gonna miss seeing my Cardinal teammates, and cant wait until Spring season. After training I headed home and started to get ready for bed. My mom told me she checked my grades online, and as of now that  I had 5 A’s and 4 B’s. She stated that she wants me to finish this marking period strong and to set a goal for myself to get more A’s for the next marking period.

Thursday 11/16

Today I had tests in my math, language Arts, and History class, and I think I did well in all of them. In gym we didn't do anything because of the marking period ending. So I just talked to my gym teacher about basketball and our school upcoming season which starts in Jan. Today my mom ended up picking me up from school, and since our team exodus practice was cancelled we went to open gym instead. I stayed there for 2 hours just shooting from all different spots and my mom was rebounding for me. After we left we headed home

Friday 11/17

Today I had a test in my science class and ended up leaving right after my test. My mom wanted to leave a little early for VA so she picked me up at 12, and we stopped to get food before we got on the highway. I then started doing some of the homework I was able to get from the class I knew I was missing today. We reached VA at 7pm, and before going to the hotel we stopped at Panda Express. Once we got to our hotel, I was able to see a few of my teammates before heading to my room. My mom wanted me to get rest so I started getting ready for tmrw. 

Saturday 11/18

Today was the first day for the Rose 7league, and we ended up going 1-1.  After being in the gym all day, a few of the players along with our parents went to Applebee’s. We ate, laughed, and singed. After we left the restaurant we headed back to the hotel where the team got together to celebrate our teammate Nat’s birthday. After having cake, I went up to my room to get ready for tomorrow because we have an early game.

Sunday  11/19

Today is the final day of session 1 in the Rose 7eague, and we won our game this morning which now puts us for 2-1 for the weekend. Right after game, my mom wanted to head straight back to NJ. I got home around 5pm and at 6pm, we was invited to go to a Rutger University VS West Forest game. I know my mom was tired but she took me to the game anyway. This was my very time seeing Rutgers play, and I must say they have a good team. RU ended up winning too. After the game I saw some of my Cardinal Fam and stopped to chat with Kristen Somogyi and them. I then headed home and started to get ready for school because its back to school tomorrow.

Before I end this, I would like to take this time to thank Lonnie from “Gthing” for giving me this opportunity to share to the world on how I spent my days in and out for the past 8 weeks. Thank you for supporting n providing coverage to all of us female basketball players especially to Middle School ball players as we continue to grow and prepare for that High School platform. I also would like to thank my mom for taking her time to type up my writing in email to send over to Gthing.

Happy Holidays and good luck to everybody in their upcoming basketball school season.

Me and my biggest supporter and my #1 fan (My mom)

IMAGE PROFILE: ANTONIA BATES

Name: Antonia Bates

AAU Team: East Coast Prep

Class: 2022

Position: Combo-Guard

State: New Jersey

Strengths: Length

Profile: Big guard who is still developing, as is raw as they come. Bates has the intangibles to be good. Long and skilled... High IQ... Quick... Attacks... Coachable... Attacks... Lanky  

IMAGE PROFILE: MADISON McDANIEL

Name: Madison McDaniel 

AAU Team: Team Takeover

Class: 2024

Position: Guard

State: Maryland

Strengths: Calmness

Profile: Plays well in Takeover offense, you would've thought she was seasoned already. Confident and Poise... Court awareness... Not afraid of contact... Can handle the rock... Calm...

DIARY OF A FEMALE BALLER: ANIYAH BOSTON 2023 (CENTRAL JERSEY CARDINALS) ENTRY #7

ANIYAH BOSTON

Hello everyone, hope you guys enjoy my week 7 entry of “Diary of a Female Baller”.

Monday 11/06

Today I didn’t have school, and my mom didn't go to work either. We spent our afternoon shopping for a coat and then went food shopping. I also had to shop for some supplies for my project that is due next week. At 630 I left to attend a High School workout at the Woodbridge Club with Coach Andre from Point 2 Prove Training. I was the only girl to attend out of 20 boys and I found it funny that none of the boys wanted to pair with me using my girl ball so I had to train using their balls. Coach Dre had us working hard in the gym, we worked on ball handling, lay ups, and jump shots from 3 spots. At 8:30 I headed home where I showered and ate dinner. I also decided to bake some cookies and just watched a movie with my mom until I fell asleep.

Tuesday 11/07

Today I didn’t do much. I spent the day with my aunt. We watched 2 movies on Netflix until my mom called telling me to start working on my math project that is due next week. My mom ended getting home late so I didn't get to make it to the basketball warehouse. So she just cooked then had me watched a playlist on Youtube that her friend put together for me which was full of basketball fundamental videos.

Wednesday 11/08

This afternoon I continued to work on my math project and just chilled out until it was time to head out. At 530 I headed to Rutgers Prep for fall training with Kristen Somogyi. Fall training is almost coming to an end, and I’m going to miss seeing my Cardinal family every week and cant wait until the Spring season start back up. After training I stayed for a quick 2 on 2 scrimmage with Toni, Mack, and Olivia. After that my mom came to pick me up and we headed home and she helped me finish up and complete my math project.

Thursday 11/09

Today other than being in the house during the day. My mom was working late so her friend took me to my conditioning class that I go to every so often. I thought I would be sore after but I actually felt energized and wanted to go play some basketball, but instead we went to go eat. My mom met us at Fridays and I had a lobster tail with my meal that was soo good. I then went home and chilled for the rest of the night.

Friday 11/10

This morning my aunt took me for my sports physical for school basketball so I can be able to try out on the 27th. I also submitted my final piece to my application for the NJ seeds Scholar program, so now I wait until January to see if I am accepted. After work my mom took me to open gym because I wanted to work on my foul shots and shooting. After hour or so we then headed to the mall where I bought me some nike pro leggings and nike socks. From the mall I went home so I can get some rest because of game day tomorrow.

Saturday 11/11

Today was championship day in the NY Cup Tournament. We first played Top Notch Ballers and since we won that game we then had to VS Harlem USA/ MilBank in the Manhattan division championship game. This was a good game, and we ended up winning by 1 point and now we advance to the next game. Our next game we VS the Bronx Division winner which was Hoopers 8th grade. Although we fell short by 10 points, I must say we played really good against an 8th grade girls. Today we received trophies for coming in 2nd place and medals. As I headed back to NJ my mom friend said something very important to me. He said nobody likes to lose, but for me to take this lost as a learning experience. For me to learn as a player what I need to improve as a individual and what is needed to improve as a team. By the time I reached home I was so tired, so decided to get ready for bed early especially since I have practice in the morning.

Sunday 11/12

Today I had to be at practice at 9am in the Bronx. Once practice ended and we had fruits, juice, and snacks waiting for us. I then left practice with my mom. On our way home we stopped at her one of her cousins house but they wasn't home. After I got home I showered and fell asleep until my mom woke me up for dinner. For the rest of night I will just relax because its back to school tomorrow.

See you all next week for last and final entry.

DIARY OF A FEMALE BALLER: ANIYAH BOSTON 2023 (CENTRAL JERSEY CARDINALS) ENTRY #6

ANIYAH BOSTON

Hey guys hope you enjoy my week 6 diary of a female baller.

Monday 10/30

Today in school other than it being a full day of learning, we had a meeting for tryouts for basketball. Can’t wait for tryouts which is after school Nov 27. My pop pop picked me up from school and then took me home so I can start on my homework. After my homework, I went to open gym to work on my shot for 2 hrs and then went home. 

Tuesday 10/31

Today is Halloween, my school allowed kids to dress up but we couldn’t wear masks. Today in my History class we started a project in history. After school, my mom came and picked me up from school. I went to my friend Toni house to go trick or treating with her and her family. After we went trick or treating, we all went to Applebee’s for dinner and then they dropped me to my mother. 

IMAGE PROFILE: MARIAN TURNBUL

Name: Marian Turnbul

AAU Team: Team Takeover

Class: 2022

Position: Combo-Guard

State: Maryland

Strength: Ball handling

Profile: Combo guard who brings swag and flare to the game. Play's with a ton of energy. Handle... Flashy... perimeter game... Has to learn how to slow it down at times...

IMAGE PROFILE: MITCHELL EDMONDS 

Name: Mitchell Edmonds

AAU Team: Team Takeover

Class: 2022

Position: Wing

State: Maryland

Strength: Athleticism

Profile: Superb athlete for a young age, long agile with slender build to go along with a little quickness. Aggressive... Plays above rim... Can handle ball on the perimeter...

IMAGE PROFILE: KELYSE BULLOCK

Name: Kelyse Bullock

AAU Team: New Jersey Sparks

Class: 2023

Position: Forward

State: New Jersey

Strength: Inside Game

Profile: Small forward with good footwork, strong inside presence and interior game. Physical... Strong... Scores on the inside... Finishes..

DIARY OF A FEMALE BALLER: ANIYAH BOSTON 2023 (CENTRAL JERSEY CARDINALS) ENTRY #5

ANIYAH & EXODUS TEAMMATES

Hey guys, here is my week 5...


Monday 10/23

Today was a normal day at school.  After school my grandpa picked me and before going straight home we stopped for some cookies. At 7pm my mom picked me and I went to a strength and conditioning class for about an hour. I then went home had dinner, and showered. Although that conditioning class had me tired I have to start part 2 of my application for the NJ Seeds Scholar program I’m trying to get into, which is researching a high school and writing about it. I started researching 2 schools and then by the end of this week I will pick which one I want to do my essay on.

Tuesday  10/24

Today 2 of my teachers (Language Arts & Science) wasn’t in today so I didn’t have any classwork. We just had to read, read, read.. In math we had a project to do which consisted of ratios and units. In gym instead of playing a sport we had a fitness class which was pretty cool. After school my grandpa picked me up and we went home. I had a lot math homework and one of the problems I waited for my mom so she can help me with understanding it a little better. I ended up eating dinner at my grandparents house because my mom was getting off late. Once my mom picked me up at 8 we went to cold stone and sat there eating ice cream and went over the math problem I needed help with. After that we went home and I showered and went to bed. 

Wednesday 10/25

Today I had a sub for History class so I had to read. I have like 3 books I’m reading. It’s like I leave one book home, now I have to get another book to read. Today I signed up for the homework where we get to stay after school an extra hour to do homework and get help if needed, it’s start next week. My grandpa picked me up and we stopped for some cookies. I wanted to go to the park but I had homework to get done. 530 my auntie dropped me to Rutgers Prep for Cardinal Fall Training with Kristen Somogyi. My mom picked me up and we went home, had dinner and showered and went to bed.

Thursday  10/26

I didn’t do much in school today. I was surprised I didn’t have any test today. Maybe tomorrow I will have one. We had another fitness course in gym so we was learning a bunch of different exercises. After school my mom came to pick me up since she got off work early. I went home and started on my homework. Around 7pm I left to go to the basketball warehouse. Always a good workout when I go there. I’m ready for this wknd, Saturday showcase and Sunday playoffs. 

Friday 10/27

Today I had a test in my Language Arts class. I’m not sure what I got on it hopefully Monday I will know. Other than that school today was normal. After school my mom picked me up again and we went straight home. She wanted me to get my homework done today because our weekend was full with basketball. After I completed my homework I started to get ready for my fall dance at my school. I had so much fun at the dance and I actually danced too. The party ended at 830 and  after that I went home, showered and started preparing for tomorrow Showcase. 


Sat 10/28

Today I spent my day at the Keil Moore Fall Showcase. We did several dribbling drills, worked on reverse layups and other things. I learned a few stretching techniques as well. We then had scrimmages. After the showcase I stayed a little bit talking and shooting around with a coach that was there until my mom was like let’s go. After a long day, we grabbed food and watch Stranger Things on Netflix for the rest of the night. 

Sun 10/29

Today was playoff time in the Rose Classics. Our 1st game was against Ring City. Since we won we had to stay and play again at 3:50. We won our 2nd game which was against Rockland Liberty. Now next Sunday we have the championship game against the Sparks. I ended my night by having dinner at Applebee’s with my mom and then we went home. Tomorrow back to school.



See you guys next week for entry 6. I’m looking forward to a fun week. We have playoff for the NY Cup on Saturday and the championship game on Sunday. 

IMAGE PROFILE: ZOE BROOKS (NEW JERSEY SPARKS)

Name : Zoe Brooks

AAU Team: New Jersey Sparks

Class: 2023

Position: Point Guard

State: New Jersey

Nickname: Bully

Strength: Passing

Profile: Lead guard with exceptional court vision, runs and see's the floor well when in transition. Big guard... Solid body frame... Passer... Handle... 

DIARY OF A FEMALE BALLER: ANIYAH BOSTON 2023 LINDEN, NJ (CENTRAL JERSEY CARDINALS) ENTRY #4

ANIYAH & CARDINAL TEAMMATES

Hey guys 

Check out my week 4.

Monday 10/16

Today was a good day in school. Today in my Social Studies class, I had an essay assignment. I started my intro on my topic which is about John Adams. This essay is due next week Tuesday. I also had a test in my math class but my teacher didn’t tell us our grade.  After school my grandpa came and pick me up and he took me to get cookies. I couldn’t go to any workouts today because I had a little more homework than usual. After my homework I studied and started to read my new book called Ugly. My mom came and picked me up and we went home. I had dinner and chatted with my mom about school and basketball until she saw the time and told me to shower and go to bed. 

Tuesday 10/17

This morning I woke up early to start getting ready for school. I ask my mom if we can go to Burger King to get some French toast sticks. After I got to school I seen my last years math teacher standing outside while she was on watch duty. We was talking about how was I doing so far in my honor classes. Today in my social studies class, I wrote two more paragraphs for my John Adams essay. I also had to start another essay about the book “The Giver” we was reading in my language arts class.  In my math we talked about bullying. My teacher asked things like what makes a bully, and what are some different types of bullying. After school my grandpa came to pick me up and went home. I made me a sandwich and did my homework. I wanted to go to the No Boyz Allowed semi-Finals but my mom came home a little later than usual. But guess what I made it to the basketball warehouse. I was a little late but came in time to join in the 1 lap around the block. After the warehouse I went home, showered ate dinner and getting in bed. 

Wednesday 10/18

Today I had an light day in school. Most of my classes we had to read our text books. I’m still waiting on math test grade from Monday. In my coding class, we received our new iPads which is loaded with some really cool apps. We are currently learning how to program a game. After school my grandpa took me to get some cookies and then drop me home. I only had math homework today which was kinda easy. At 4pm, my auntie drop me to my Cardinals teammate Toni grandmother job so I can ride with them to Rutgers Prep for training. After training we had to stay an extra hour for practice since we have games this weekend. It’s been awhile since our last Cardinal game but I’m so ready. My mom picked me up at 830 and we grabbed food from outside. When we got home we seen that I received my 1st marking period Interim report. It’s good to know that I’m passing all my classes. When I got home I had to get my things ready for the next day. 

Thurday 10/19

Today I had an ordinary day at school. After school my grandpa picked me up and we went to get food and went home. I did my homework and then read my book for an hour. After that I wanted to catch up on Riverdale. Since it started back up I haven’t had time to catch an episode. My mom picked me up around 7 and we headed to the basketball warehouse. Grace (Exodus teammate) was there too. I enjoy when she’s there because we motivate each other to keep pushing. Following the session, me and Grace stayed and put in a little extra work and did some drills with Lashae from The Patrick School and Mariah from Newark Tech. They was really cool. After the warehouse we stopped for food and went home. Showered and had to hurry to bed because it was late. 

Friday 10/21

Today in school in my social studies class we had a debate on the currents events one of my classmates reported. He stated that in Ohio a 3rd grader brought a loaded gun to school. Some kids thought the young child should be punished and said it was good that he was put in a juvenile center where others think the mom and dad in this case boyfriend should be punished. It was good debate. I had another test in my math, so hopefully I get both scores on Monday. Today my mom picked me up from school and we went home. We didn't do much because I know I have to be up early tomorrow for my game with the Cardinals. After I showered and ate I laid down.

Saturday 10/21

Today I had to be up and out the house no later than 830am to be early for my game. We won both games today. One of my trainers Coach Darryl took time out to come see me play. I also helped out the 7th grade Cardinals for the 1st half of both their games too. After the games, I left with my Cardinal teammate Toni and we went to Applebee’s. Then from there me, her, and Mackenzie went to the park. We ended playing a pick up game with some high school boys. My mom came and picked me up around 8 and we went home. I started to get ready for the next day and had to go to bed.

Sunday 10/22

Today we lost 1 and won 1. We played the Sparks and it was a really good game. We fell short 4 points. Today was our last game of the season until Spring. Sad I’m gonna miss my Cardinal family but I know next year we will come back stronger and harder. We went to get pizza and stayed at Toni house until my mom came to pick me up 730. Then I went home and had dinner, showered and went to bed. School tomorrow. 


This is my week 4. Looking forward to next weekend because playoff begins with Team Exodus.

DIARY OF A FEMALE BALLER: ANIYAH BOSTON 2023 LINDEN, NJ (CENTRAL JERSEY CARDINALS) ENTRY #3

ANIYAH BOSTON & GRANDPOP

Hey guys, here’s week 3 of my “Diary of a Female baller” hope you enjoy..

Monday 10/9

Today I didn’t have school due to a “Teachers Workshop”, so I was able to sleep late. My grandma woke me up around 9 in the morning so I can go out with my grandpa for breakfast.  After breakfast we came back to the house and I read a chapter out of my book “The Giver”.  I then ended up falling back to sleep until my mom called and told my grandma not to be letting me sleep during the day lol so I had to wake up. I watched Netflix until my mom came to pick me up. Today was my off day so I didn’t have any basketball workouts to attend. I went home and just relaxed until it was time to eat dinner, shower, and go to bed.

Tuesday 10/10

Today I woke up at 530 to get ready for school. My mom drops me off at 7 everyday to school where I have time to either chat with some friends or go to any teacher for extra help. In the beginning of the school year I signed up for the stage crew club and today I found out I’m captain of the ushers for The Adams Family play.  Today I received a lot of homework, so after school my grandpa took me straight home to start it so I can be finished early. At 730 my mom took me over to the basketball warehouse. Tonight was a great workout, by 9pm although my mom was ready to go I wasn’t ready to leave.. A few of us stayed about 15 mins extra  just to get some shots up. I’m already looking forward to Thursday night at the warehouse. After the warehouse I went home and started to get ready for tmrw. 

Wednesday 10/11

Today I didn’t get up so early like I normally do. I slept until 615, and started my day by getting ready for school. I didn’t have any tests in any of my core classes, but in science we talked about a project we will be starting soon. In gym we was allowed to play any sport of our choice and I chose soccer. My gym teacher asked did I play soccer outside and I told her no and she told me next year I should try out for soccer because I was good at it. After school my grandpa came and picked me up and we went to get ice cream. After my ice cream, I was dropped off to my Cardinal teammate Toni house so we can ride together to Cardinal Fall training with Coach Somogyi. We worked hard at tonight’s training and I can’t wait until my next game with my Cardinal Family on the 22nd. After training on the way home we stopped and grab food. When I got home all I had to do was shower and go to bed.

Thursday 10/12

Today I missed school because I had a dentist appointment. Soon I will be getting braces and I really hope I can get them in color because I want purple which is my favorite by the way. Before I went to the dentist, I went to IHOP with my mom, grandpa, and auntie. After breakfast my mom dropped them off and took me back home so I can brush my teeth again before we headed to the dentist. We ended being there for 3 hours. After my appointment, I went home and relaxed until 6 and headed over to the No Boyz Allowed League to see SJV VS IC Lodi.. I didn’t see the ending because I had to leave early to make it to the basketball warehouse on time.  Always a good workout when I go there. After the workout I went home and had dinner, showered, and started to get ready for bed. 

Friday 10/13

Today is Friday the 13th most say it’s a bad day but I look at it as another day. I woke up kind of early. I started to get ready for school and she drop me off at 7.  Classes started at 745 so I had to time to chat with my friends. Today in school I had a math test which I think I did pretty good. I get my grade next week and will let you guys know. After school my grandpa came and picked me up and took me back to the house. My mom later then picked me up and she dropped me to the movies to meet my friends. We went to go see Happy Death Day. That movie was sooo good but was one of those movies you can tell who is the killer. After the movies we all went to Burger King and then my mom picked me up from there. I had to get ready for tomorrow because I have a game in NY, so after my shower I went right to sleep. 

Saturday 10/14

I woke up and had breakfast and started to get ready so we can leave to head to Brooklyn for the Rose Classic. Today we (Exodus) played against two 8th grade teams, although we went 1-1 we played really really tough. After the games we headed back to NJ. After I got home I had to start my application for a Scholar program that I’m trying to get into next year called the NJ Seeds. The process includes answering 2 out of 5 questions and to pick a HS out of the list they gave me and research that HS and write a five paragraph essay about how my first would be.  I started my research but haven’t finish now I’m going to get ready for bed and just gonna relax until I fall asleep because I have practice 930 in the morning. 

Sunday 10/15

Today I had Exodus practice and stayed there until 130pm. I learned alot and bonded with my teammates today. After practice I headed home and relaxed while my mom cooked. One of my old coaches from travel rec called and ask if I wanted to play a scrimmage at 6pm so of course I said yes. I was playing with my old travel rec team against an 8th grade team and we ended up winning. Im now home and my mom ordered pizza for us and we talked about basketball. Although my mom is strict when it comes to school, she can be cool too and is my #1 FAN. 


This is my week 3 wrap up, see you guys next week. 

DIARY OF A FEMALE BALLER: ANIYAH BOSTON 2023 LINDEN, NJ (CENTRAL JERSEY CARDINALS) ENTRY #2

ANIYAH BOSTON

Hey guys, here is my week 2 of “Diary of a female baller”.

Monday 10/2

Today I did my usual thing to get ready and be fresh for school. My mom dropped me off at 7:10 which is normally the time she drops me every morning. It was a good day in school, I didn’t have any tests lol. Today my mom was able to pick me up from school, we went home and then I started on my homework. At 7 I went to a group strength and conditioning class that was pretty cool. We did a lot of running and ladder drills. After the workout I went home, had dinner and started getting ready for bed. 

Tuesday 10/3

Today I was at school a little later than usual at 730. Today was a normal day in school. Not sure if I mentioned my Hispanic research paper I did last week for my Spanish class on Ricky Martin, but I received a 100% on it.  My grandpa came and pick me up and we went home. Today I only had math homework which I was able to understand with no extra help needed. My mom picked me up from my grandparents and we headed over to the No Boyz Allowed league in Elizabeth to watch a game. It was Sanai Christian Academy VS Trenton Catholic.  After that game we headed home, where I had dinner and took a shower and now in bed. 

Wednesday 10/4

Today I started my day by getting ready and fresh for school. In my Honors History class we starting preparing for a debate and also had a test which I received an 80 on. To explain this debate further, my class was broken into 2 groups and several judges. The debate is next week and will be about Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson. I was selected for the Thomas Jefferson side. In my Honors Science class we was given a test, however I didn’t get the grade back yet. In my Honors Language Arts class, I got a 103 on my test. I couldn’t wait to tell my mom how I had the highest score in my class. After school my grandpa pick me up and I did my homework and then after my homework was done my auntie dropped me off to Rutgers Prep for Kristen Somogyi Fall training. I always look forward to going because I get to train as well as see my basketball Cardinal family.  My mom picked me up and I went home, had dinner, showered, and laid down and started watching the rest of the WNBA Finals.. Glad the Lynx won..

Thursday 10/5

Today was a good day in school. I learned a few cool things in my coding class. In my music class I had to do a ringtone project which I got an 80 on. After school my grandpa pick me up and we went to my school football game, Linden VS New Brunswick. My mom then picked me and we headed over to the basketball warehouse. It’s been awhile but I was glad to be back. After the warehouse, I went home, had dinner, showered and went to bed.

Friday 10/6

My mom dropped me off today at 730. In my Honors History class we watched CNN news, and then a few of my classmates had to present current events. In my Honors Language Arts class we had to read. I’m up chapter 7 in my book called “The Giver”. I ended up leaving early because my mom picked me up. At 7 I went to workout with Coach G. He taught me a lot and identified the little things I need to start working on now before HS. We stayed in the gym until almost 9pm. I then went home and started preparing for tmrw morning games with Exodus.

Saturday 10/7

Today I had 3 games with Exodus, we ended up winning the 2 games in the Rose Classics and the 1 game in the NY Cup. On my way home to NJ we stopped and had pizza. When I got home, I showered and ended up falling asleep and didn’t wake up until 8. I had dinner and watched a movie with my mom until I fell back to sleep. 

Sunday 

Today I had to go back to Brooklyn for 2 games. We ending up going 1-1 in the Rose Classics.  After the game I headed back home to NJ. There is no school tmrw so I will be staying the night at my grandparents house so I don’t have to wake up early.  

This is the conclusion of my week 2 and see you all next week.

DIARY OF A FEMALE BALLER: ANIYAH BOSTON 2023 LINDEN, NJ (CENTRAL JERSEY CARDINALS) ENTRY #1

ANIYAH BOSTON

Hey basketball community. My name is Aniyah Boston c/o 2023. I’m super excited and thankful that gthing Basketball is blessing me the opportunity to share with you all of some of things I do throughout my week. 

Monday 9/25

I woke up at 530 am to start my day with brushing my teeth and taking a shower. Today was picture day, so I was able to wear my new outfit my auntie Rose bought me yesterday. I start school at 745am, and learn some new things. Today I had a test in my honors science and honors history classes. School is dismissed at 245pm and my grandpa pick me up and we went to get to food then to my grandparents house. I did my homework then FaceTime my friend. My mom picked me up at 7 then we went home. I ate dinner, showered, and while laying down I decided to write in my journal about my day and will go to bed.

Tuesday 9/26

I woke up at 6am, washed my face, brush my teeth, got dressed and had breakfast. Today in my honors math class we learned how to multiply integers. My school also had a book fair where I was able to get 2 books called Ugly and Taken with the $10 my mom gave me. My grandpa was there to pick me up after school and we went home. I did my homework and read my book until my mom came to pick me up. I then went to a basketball workout in Plainfield with Coach Mike until 8:15pm. When I got home I ate dinner, showered and got ready for bed.

Wednesday 9/27

Today I woke at 6am to start my day with my usual routine of washing my face and brushing my teeth. My mom drop me to school a little earlier than usual. I had a good day today in school. For my test I took on Monday, I got an 90 on the science test and a 75 on the history test.  After school my grandpa picked me up and we went home. I had to do my homework before basketball. My aunt drop me to Rutgers Prep at 6pm for Fall training with Kristen Somogyi. My mom came and picked me up at 730 and we stop my the gym at the No boyz allowed league in Elizabeth. Tonight I’m staying with my grandparents because my mom have to work early. I had dinner and showered and layed down in bed. 

Thursday 9/28

Today I was up at 530am and started my day with washing my face and brushing my teeth. My grandpa took me to get breakfast and then dropped me to school. I didn’t stay in school all day today because I had a dr appt. Before my mom came to pick me up I was learning how to divide integers. After my dr appt, I went with my mom to get her hair done, and while I waited for her I did my homework. I then went to my strength and conditioning Trainer Robert for an hour. After that my mom took me home and I had dinner, showered and layed down reading my book Taken until I fell asleep. 

Friday 9/29

My mom woke me up today 6am. I washed my face brushed my teeth and got dressed. In school we didn’t do much because it was Friday. I did have a test in my honors math class and got an 86.  After school my grandpa picked me up and we went to the park where I played basketball with my friends. Later on I then went to a Linden HS football game with my sister and we hung out with our friends. After the game I went and spent the night at my sister house. 

Saturday 9/30


My mom came to pick me up early because I had a game to get ready for with team Exodus. I went home showered and then we left to head to Brooklyn. We won both games today in the Rose Classic and NY Cup league. After the games me and my mom stopped at a pizzeria in Manhattan n had some good pizza and headed back to NJ. Later that evening my mom gave me money so that I can go to the movies with my sister and our friend from school. The movie till death do us part was so good. After the movie I went home and relaxed. 

 4TH ANNUAL GTHING ALL STAR CLASSIC REVIEW

Linwood, New Jersey - This year was the first time in four years I was able to do the 24/7 All Star Classic closer to home. In the past, Gthing All Star Classic was held more West of were South Jersey is located. It fell under the J.E.M Classic which is held and ran by owner Mike Melton, who operates Basketball Spotlight, which is the boy's side of the AAU circuit. 

This year was a little different, at the last minute we where able to put together a rising 8th graders game. In a two day span I was fortunate enough to get some good talent to come up in play in the 4th Annual Event, wasn't not sure how the it would turn out, put by the sound of things and the excitement it brought we will now be adding a rising 8th graders game followed by the rising 9th graders game.

This year it was my goal to attempt to put together a true North versus South All Star Event, I was only three players short for the South to really make it a official North versus South game. We had players from VA, MD, DE, come up on I-95 to attend, some of the top programs on the East Coast were participate in this high level All Star Game. On the North side it was what we expected it to be, fancy and fast. The North team was made up of some Exodus NY, Sparks NJ, IExcel NY, Shoreshots NJ, Team Miller players, while the South was made up of Team Sol MD, Team Takeover MD, BBA NJ, Maryland Finest MD, players. Both sides brought a lot of energy to the game, and that's what we wanted. We know everything in AAU normally starts in the AM, so we were trying to give a later start since they been playing all summer long and getting up at the crack of dawn.

Destiny Adams - 2021 - 6'1 - Small Forward - Manchester HS, Manchester, NJ - The MVP showed why she is one of top 21' prospects in New Jersey. Adams displayed some of her furious interior presence, Blocking shots in then getting out in transition to finish at the other end. She brought her A game, showing now that she is a dual threat on the wing or somewhere around the basket. Interior player who offense is starting shine... shot blocker... physical... mid-range gamer... rebounds on both sides... strong... expanding her game to the outside...

Olivia Lynch - 2021 - 5'8 - Point Guard - St. Thomas More Academy HS, Magnolia, DE - Quick point guard, who we seen for the first time. Lynch seems likes she loves transition and uptempo basketball. unselfishness floor leader... speed... confident floor leader... passes and delivers...

Sanna Ferreiras - 2021 - 5'6 - Guard - St. Francis Prep HS, Queens NY - Crafty floor leader who has handle and distribute in the transition game. Penetrates and attacks... gets to the rim... pushes tempo... fast hands... floater in lane... 

Jada McCullough - 2021 - 5'9 - Point Guard - Caesars Rodney HS, Camden, DE - Athletic combo-guard, with a huge upside. Physical off the dribble... Drives in finish in traffic... 


Janel Moore - 2021 - 5'7 - Point Guard - Saddle River Day HS, Saddle River, NJ - Fundamental floor leader that has handle, half-court game but can play in transition also... passer... pushes tempo... contributes... calm demeanor... 


Taylor Gibson - 2021 - 6'1 - Forward - Bishop McNamara HS, Forestville, MD - Versatile small forward who can create mismatch problems when close to the basket, rebounds... Exploits mismatches... size and strength... length... Finishes around basket...


Paige Brown - 2021 - 5'7 - Point Guard - National Christian Academy HS, Washington, MD - Unselfish lead guard with handle, dish and distribute while in transition or in the lane. handle... knows roll... advance in transition game... attacks... court awareness...


Elenor Robinson - 2021 - 5'11 - Wing - Immaculate Conception Lodi HS, Lodi, NJ - Versatile perimeter prospect with length, can get out in push the rock. active in passing lane... quick leaper... draws contact...


Sophia Sabino - 2021 - 5'9 - Guard - Red Bank Catholic HS, Red Bank, NJ - Off guard with handle, creates in uptempo game. mid-range gamer... quick off the dribble... handle... developing long range game... Plays under control...

Katie Hill - 2021 - 5'10 - Point Guard - St. John's Vianney HS, Holmdel, NJ - Big lead guard who brings size and strength to the back court. Passes with authority in transition... rebounds... scores off the dribble... executes in half court...

Zaakyaa Young - 2021 - 5'8 - Guard - St. Joseph HS, Brookylyn, NY - Athletic lead-guard who brings some bounce to the game, attacks in transition. quick first step... quick leaper... developing offensive game... 

Christina Whitehead - 2021 - 5'10 - Point Guard - Red Bank Catholic HS, Red Bank, NJ -  Athletic off-guard who has back court versatility because of her size. drives and attack...


Kaliyah Myrick - 2021 - 6'3 - Post - The George HS, Newtown, PA -  Strong interior prospect with consistent offensive game; Powerful in the paint. active in the paint... rebounds... physical on the boards... size and strength... wingspan... aggressive...


Allie McGinn - 2021 - 5'10 - Wing - Staten Island Academy HS, Staten Island NY - Fundamental off-guard with size, versatility on the perimeter. can knock down the long range shot... attacks basket in transition... mid-range gamer... High IQ...


Imani Harris - 2021 - 5'8 - Point Guard - Monsignor Scanlan HS, Bronx, NY - Athletic combo with a quick first step towards the basket; explosive when attacking... mid-range gamer... elevates in mid-range game... crafty... handle... swag... creates... scorers mentality... 


Ella Fajardo - 2021 - 5'4 - Point Guard - Immaculate Conception Lodi HS, Lodi, NJ - Lead guard who can actually flat out shoot the ball; smooth floor game... distributes and delivers... handle... poise... great guard skills... shoots the ball well... consistent... mid-range gamer...


Kayla Thomas - 2021 - 6'3 - Post - Bishop Ireton HS, Alexandria, VA - Low post prospect with emerging back to the basket game which is starting to evolve; mobile... college frame ready... size... alter shots... interior presence... fills the lane...


Krislin Arjukese - 2021 - 5'10 - Point Guard - Bullis HS, Potomac, MD - Fundamental combo-guard with versatility and size in the back court. complete skilled guard... efficient in transition... court vision and awareness is great... creates and attacks... savvy.. coachable... 


Bianca Pendleton - 2021 - 6'1 - Forward - Bullis HS, Potomac, MD - Power post with a mean physical low post game; interior foot work... tough... work horse... plays hard... rebounds... pounds boards... 



Ariel Jenkins - 2021 - 6'4 - Post - Piscataway HS, Piscataway, NJ - Agile and long interior post with huge upside; superior length... Athletic... crazy wingspan to alter shot... shot blocking ability... developing offensive game... easy buckets when in the painted area...