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...

4TH ANNUAL Gthing ALL STAR CLASSIC ROSTER!

NORTH 
Zaakiyya Young - St. Joseph HS, Brooklyn, NY
Janel Moore - IExcel - Saddle River Day HS, Saddle River, NJ
Destiny Adams - Jersey Warriors - Manchester HS, Manchester, NJ
Sophia Sabino - Shoreshots - Red Bank Catholic HS, Red Bank, NJ
Allie McGinn - Shoreshots - Staten Island Academy HS, Staten Island, NY
Imani Harris - Exodus - Monsignor Scanlan HS, Bronx, NY  
Elenor Robinson - Sparks - Immaculate Conception HS, Montclair, NJ
Ella Fajardo - Sparks - Immaculate Conception HS, Montclair, NJ
Ariel Jenkins - Team Miller - Piscataway HS, Piscataway, NJ
Sanaa Ferreiras - Exodus - St. Francis Prep HS, Queens NY


SOUTH
Taylor Gibson - Maryland Finest - Bishop McNamara HS, Forestville, MD
Kate Hill - Jersey Shore Elite - St. John's Vianney HS, Holmdel, NJ
Kayla Thomas - Team Sol - Bishop Ireton HS, Alexandria, VA
Paige Brown - Team Sol - National Christian Academy HS, Washington,MD
Olivia Lynch - BBA - St. Thomas More Academy HS, Magnolia, DE
Bianca Pendleton - Team Takeover - Bullis HS, Potomac, MD
Krislin Arjukese - Team Takeover - Bullis HS, Potomac, MD
Jada McCullough - BBA - Caesar Rodney HS, Camden, DE 
Kaliyah Myricks - BBA - The George School HS, Newton, PA
Christina Whitehead - Jersey Cardinals - Red Bank Catholic HS, Red Bank, NJ 

KANNAPOLIS, NC - This was LBInsiders first year for Carolina Live, although most of the teams where from the Carolinas this was a must attend event for the final weekend for Live Period in July. There where numerous D1 college coaches on the seen, some were there for the two full days and the ones that didn't make the first day they definitely made the final day. 

LBInsiders took a chance with putting this together and nevertheless it turn out to be a successful event for Carolina Live, thanks to Co-Founder Percy Wright of LBInsider was working relentlessly to bring in some top programs, such as Carolina Flames EYBL, South Carolina 76ers, Team Lady Charlotte and One Dream. The gym was standing room only when Carolina Flames took on Lady Charlotte in most of the people that we're standing was the spectators because most of the coaches that planned on seeing this match up had surrounded court 2 three hours prior just to see this big game between two of Carolinas best programs.

Flames jump out to a early start by good game play by point guard Jada McMillan who was able to create in finish either at the basket or by dumping the ball off in the paint to either Key or Poole. Tamari had a good all round game, I lost count of the blocks that she accumulated but lets just say it was in the double digits.

Tamari Key - 2019 - 6'5 - Center - Carolina Flames EYBL 11TH - Cary, NC - Key had a coming out party and a block party all in the same event. Tamari has the ability to change the pace of a game with her inside presences. When she is on the block it comes relatively easy because of her length and her ability to catch the ball in turn around in shoot. Crazy wingspan... Interior presence... Shot blocker... Passes well in the paint... Runs the floor... Length... 

Amari Young - 2018 - 5'11 - Wing - SC76ERS Black - North Augusta, SC - Lefty who plays above and around the rim, has the ability to create around perimeter. Great at playing the 3 or 4 spot where she is a threat on the offensive glass. Athletic... Rebounds well... Scores off of miss shots... Leaper... Wiry...

Tanajah Hayes - 2021 - 5'5 - Point Guard - Team United 14U - Charlotte, NC - Consistent offensive threat, can beat you in different ways when the ball is in her hands. Thrives when playing the 2... Scores in bunches... High motor... Slasher... 


TY'Jaiah McMullen - 2020 - 5'10 - Forward - Upward Stars  - York County - Rock Hill, SC - Small forward with a ton of moves, her frame looks deceiving, McMullen can play. Good size... Light and nimble on feet... Little ball handle... Strong upper body... Physical... Attacks basket...


Quadijah Moore - 2019 - 6'0 - Forward - SC76ERS Silver - Greenwood, SC - Forward with good skill set, knows how to put the ball on the floor. Has a very soft touch and can score around the basket. Knows how to create space... Good skill set... Strong and physical presence... Great foot work... Upper body strength... Attacks and finishes...


Braylyn Milton - 2021 - 5'9 - Guard / Wing - Team United 14U - Charlotte, NC - Long Athletic Guard who at times plays on the wing where she likes to create off the dribble. Milton likes to constantly attack from the perimeter area. Long... Perimeter game... Floater.... Athletic... Leaper... Rebounds... Has to start showing Mid-Range game...


Diamond Thomas - 2021 - 5'2 - Point Guard - Team Lady Wall 2021 - Nightdale, NC - Small but effective, gets it done on both sides of the ball. Pushes through transition when on break, gets to rack with ease because she is so fast. Lead guard... Scorers mentality... Handle... Fast pace... Uptempo... 


Tayanna Jones - 2018 - 6'2 - Point Guard - Carolina Flames EYBL 11TH - Selma, NC - More like a point forward when on the court and when she has the ball in her hands at times. Plays very well without the ball and knows how to get open and find the right looks to get a shot off. Athletic... Creates turn overs... Defends... Rebounds the ball well... Can but the ball on the floor and create... Leaper... Plays well around the basket...


Robe McClean - 2019 - 5'6 - Point Guard - Lady Team Charlotte 17U - Charlotte, NC - Lead guard how plays exceptionally well in pressure situation, has good upper body strength to help carry her game against bigger guards. Brings energy to the game... Attacks rim... High motor... Takes charge... Crafty... Good upper body strength to take on contact...


Kennedy Calhoun - 2021 - 5'5 - Point Guard - Team United 14U - Charlotte, NC - Skilled lead guard with a huge upside, knows the game very well and see thing and make things happen on the court at a young age. Has good court awareness and vision to seek out when double teams or traps are about to happen. Can score from anywhere on the floor, love the open game. Floor leader... Plays under control... Handle... Passes well between gaps... Creates in halfcourt... High IQ... High prospect... 

Ashanti Kelly - 2021 - 5'6 - Point Guard - Upward Stars - York County - Chester, SC - Physical lead guard that seems to be naturally raw, crazy handle and can get to anywhere she wants to when attacking. Not so skilled, but can have a huge upside. Flat out scorer... Flare with game... Quick... Handle... Talent is there...


Amhyia Moreland - 2021 - 5'11 - Forward - Team United 14U - MY Ulla, NC - A whole lot of interior moves for a youngster, knows how to pick and roll and set screens. Interior game... Soft touch... Seals defender on pick in rolls... Good movement... 


Rinnah Green - 2018 - 5'8 - Point Guard - Lady Team Charlotte 17U - Harrisburg, NC - Shooting guard with a ton range, makes great decisions in transition and also finishes. Can play the 1 or 2 spot, very effective when in space. Green is a duo threat, who signed to Charlotte U. Scores mentality... Handle... Spreads floor... Mid-Range game... Quick first step...


Nyla Cooper - 2021 - 5'6 - Point Guard - Lady Team Wall 2021 - Fayetteville, NC - Point guard who beats you in different varieties when on offense. Can score the ball... Handle... Likes to score...


Syniah McMiller - 2021 - 5'11 - Forward - Lady Team Wall 2021 - Angier, NC - Very passionate about the game, works extremely hard on glass and also is a good rebound. Will have to learn when and when not to put the ball on the as time time go's on. Aggressive... Rebounds... Finisher... High prospect...


C. Hobby - 2019 - 6'2 - Forward - SC76ERS Black - Seneca, SC - Good size and good strength. Interior player that is very mobile around the basket. Scores in post area... Agile... Foot work is good... Physical presence... Blocks shots...


Quadijah Moore - 2019 - 6'0 - Forward - SC76ERS Silver - Greenwood, SC - Good skill set forward with a sprinkle of guard, good hands and can put the ball on the floor. Strong... Physical... Exploits mismatches... Interior scorer... 


Jazmin Harris - 2018 - 6'4 - Center- Carolina Dynasty - Mcleansville, NC - Strong, Physical low post performer with mobility. High motor effort on the glass. Attacks in paint... Draws contact... Rebounds... Delivers in paint... Post up game... Makes space... Back towards basket... Signed to Charlotte U.

Shaniya Jones - 2018 - 5'7 - Point Guard - Carolina Flames EYBL 11TH - High Point, NC - Pushes tempo of the game, smooth lead guard with great court awareness. Creates and attacks... Breaks press... Quick with some bounce... Lead guard... Fast pace...


Rikoya Anderson - 2018 - 5'9 - Shooting Guard - SC76ERS Black - Rock Hill, SC - Combo guard with strong upper body, Scores in bunches, Moves well with or without the ball... Rebounds... Constantly attacking...


Jada McMillian - 2018 - 5'7 - Point Guard - Carolina Flames EYBL 11TH - Knightdale , NC - Athletic combo guard with handle, Pushes tempo and delivers. Brings a scorers mentality with her... Deep threat... Handle... Poise... Signed to Charlotte U.


Jessica Timmons - 2021 - 5'10 - Point Guard - One Dream - Charlotte, NC - Athletic combo guard who handles in attack in transition, delivers of dribble, has some bounces to her game. Brings size and strength to the game... High prospect for 2021... Scores mentality... Strong... Confident...


Teonni Key - 2021 - 6'2 - Point Guard - Carolina Flames 10TH EYBL - Cary, NC - Agile combo guard who brings size, Playmaker and can a ton of points if receive enough touches. Long Athletic... Good size guard.... Potential... Plays well around perimeter...


Kyanna Morgan - 2020 - 5'11 - Shooting Guard - Carolina Flames 10TH EYBL - Charlotte, NC - Lead guard with some size, versatility to backcourt. Basketball IQ... Thrives in transition... Spot open shooter... Brings athleticism to the game... Handle in passes in uptempo...

DIARY OF A FEMALE BALLER: KAYLA BECKFORD 2022 PATERSON, NJ (NEW JERSEY SPARKS) ENTRY #8

KAYLA BECKFORD

Hello, this is Kayla checking in for the final week.

Monday - All I did today was finish packing and did some running around with my mom for the USJN DC trip. We went shopping making sure we had everything we needed. I didn't do any basketball training, I was off for today.

Tuesday - This morning we left the house very early to head to DC. The USJN DC Nationals was held at the Gaylord Convention Center in Oxon Hill, Maryland. We checked into our hotel, relaxed and headed to our only game for today at 4:30. We won by 15 against Philly Triple Threat and I did okay. My family and one of my closest teammates family went out for dinner.

Wednesday- Today our games were at 4:30 and 7:30. I ate breakfast and my teammates and I chilled until it was time for lunch. My mom took me to Chipotle for lunch and then I took a nap before we headed to the games.  We won our first game by 16 against Team Nova, but then lost our second game against Team TakeOver by 4. We played the team before and won, but that past game was back and forth just like this game was. I did okay today but definitely was disappointed in that loss. We went out to dinner with some teammates to a restaurant and then went back to hotel to get a good night sleep.

Thursday- Today our games were 9:00am and 4:00pm. We won both our games today. Our first game was against Team Nova and we won by around 13. The second game was against Germantown Lady Panthers. We were down the entire game and then we came back in fourth quarter to win by 9. We won our pool and had quarter finals in the morning.

Friday- Today was quarterfinals, semi finals and finals. We won quarterfinals against a different tougher Team Nova. I didn't do much all game long until 4th quarter. I got a couple steals, rebounds and buckets to seal the deal. We advanced to the semifinals and played against another different Philly Triple Threat and lost by 4. We were not suppose to lose that game. After the game I headed to the outlets and then headed back home to New Jersey. Even though we lost in the semi's (5-2 finish at USJN DC), we had a GREAT AAU season and got better throughout the year.

Saturday- I worked out today with a new trainer and I would have to say that was the toughest basketball workout I’ve been put through. Just the warm ups had my legs burning. I didn’t quit or give up because I knew it would make me better. I was completely dead after the workout was done. It wore off a little on the ride home and I did a little shooting in my driveway. After that, I went again with my mom and chilled for the rest of the day.

Sunday- I woke up super early just to go back to sleep. I woke back up around 12 and headed to my basketball workout with Tarik. I did that and just chilled with my mom for the remainder of the day. My mom, brother and I went out to dinner at a buffet. That was it for the day. Also, I'm looking forward to Rites Of Passage next weekend and a couple weeks off after that to rest and refocus before I get back in the gym.

DAIRY OF A FEMALE BALLER: KAYLA BECKFORD 2022 PATERSON, NJ (NEW JERSEY SPARKS) ENTRY #7

KAYLA & PEE WEE KIRKLAND

Hello Basketball World, this is Kayla checking in for Week 7.

Monday - I'll be going to The Patrick School basketball camp this whole week. I got there at lunch since my father overslept from his night job. There we only 5 girls including and one of them was my teammate, the rest were boys. After lunch was over, we stretched and did some speed & agility stuff outside with the TPS trainer. We did some work with the long and short resistance bands. It was very challenging being that mostly everything was a first for me. We also did ladder drills push-ups. I really liked it though because it was fun and interesting. We went inside and played 4 on 4. I did very well in front of a lot of coaches and players. It was boys for the most part and I was killing them. Camp was over by the time all the games finished. I went home to eat and nap a little and then it was back to my strength & conditioning/ speed & agility workout. I did some cone work and some resistance drills here too. I had a great day.

Tuesday - Today I got there on time and we started out warming up outside. Then went went inside to do ball handling, layups, three man weave, and 2 on 2. I learned some new moves and did some new drills that I've never seen before. Then it was lunch. After, we stretched out and played 5 on 5. Then, we went outside to do battle ropes, push up jumps, weight ball, and the same resistance and ladder stuff from yesterday. I came home until it was time for my 6 o'clock workout. I did a lot of running compared to other days where there's a balance. Then I went to the gym and made at least 300 shots from close, mid range, and the three. Today was tiring.

BRONX, NEW YORK - The Festival was a two day event, held by NYG HOOPS JOE FENELON in the BRONX aka BX at Mount Saint Vincent College. This was a tune-up for all AAU programs that where trying to get a edge off before they headed Midwest to Chicago and Kentucky to play in one of the biggest months of the AAU Circuit, July is a Live Period month were all the colleges coaches come out to take a look at some of the young recruits or some of the recruits that they seen before or heard about that's either signed or unsigned. NYG HOOPS had some familiar names in the building, at which he done a good job at getting, since putting this thing together on such a short notices. Here are some players, Gthing was able to see, one day out of this two day event.

Precious Cowan - 2019 - Guard - 5'6 - (Bronx, NY) - Harlem USA 15U - Lead Guard with a scorers mentality, likes to get out in transition and push the the rock as much as possible. Most of Cowan's points come from attacking the basket or at the charity strike, very active and has a knack for the Guard game. Lead Guard... Uptempo... Crafty... Fills the lanes...

Jordan Obi - 2020 - Guard - 5'11 - (Simsbury, CT) - New York Lady Gauchos 17U - Big strong power Guard, with a huge upside and should be consider a top prospect in the years to come. Jordan is smooth with her handle can causes her defenders fits because of her size and ability to finish at the rim or dish it off. Strong... Upper body strength... Court vision... Inside moves..

Adia Burrows - 2019 - Forward - 6'0 - (Wilton, NY) - Harlem USA 15U - Interior scorer with a very soft touch, very mobile around the basket. Great offensive threat, calls for ball in mismatch situations in the lane and always looking to find ways to get open.


Asianae Johnson - 2018 - Guard - 5'7 - (Brooklyn, NY) - New Lady Gauchos 17U - Scoring Guard with some bounce to her game, Johnson is very athletic and can to the basket within a few steps. Scorers mentality... Uptempo... Leaper... High motor... Acrobatic moves... Slasher...


Mia Seemadray - 2020 - Forward - 5'11 - (Saint Albans, NY) - New Heights 14U - Long athletic wing who does well when putting the ball on the floor and creating, likes to attack the basket despite being a little thin. Aggressive on the offensive side of the ball... Calls for ball quiet... Coachable... Needs to put on some side...


Moriyah Jordan - 2018 - Post - 6'2 - (Newark, NJ) - Playherz 17U - Interior post player with really good up and down movement, very light on her foot with in the paint. Very surprised with her lateral movement and the way she defends on the baseline. Interior post presence... Rebounds... Scores and finishes in the paint... Mobile... Goods hands...


Alexandra Tarul - 2021 - Guard - 5'10 - (Bronx, NY) - NYC Lady Bulldogs - Very very skilled for a young age, has all the skills necessary to play multiple position. Show some flashes of a good passing game, knows when to break her defender down when going to hoop and creating to get the ball off. High IQ... See's floor well... Makes things happen... Good court vision... Creates... Poise...


Asya Brandon - 2020 - Guard - 5'2 - (Hamden, CT) - New York Gauchos 14U - Explosive scoring point Guard, with a lot of will and determination, plays the 1 but can switch to the 2 Guard. High motor... Scorers mentality... Can play both Guard position... Moves well without the ball... Creates... Explosiveness when attacking... 

Brianna Randolph - 2019 - Guard - 5'3 - ( New York, NY) - Harlem USA 15U - Shooting Guard with a lead Guard mentality, can beat you on the court in different varieties of the game. Plays under control and knows when to set her teammates up. Mid-Range gamer... Crafty... Calm demeanor... Good decision maker... Careful with the ball... Can drain the three ball...

Brazil Harvey - Carr - 2019 - Forward - 6'1 - (Camden, NJ) - New York Lady Gauchos  15U - Strong forward, who can actually play with her back towards the basket. Harvey can put the ball on the floor in traffic and her strength carries her to the rim against contact. High prospect 2019... Strong interior player... Rebounds... Physical... Will be a around complete player when she develops a strong mid-range game... 

Reyna Scott - 2022 - Guard - 5'4 - (New York, NY) - New York Lady Gauchos 13U - True point guard that has a whole lot of leadership for a young age, seems to handle pressure well in very crucial situation. Mature... Handle... Smart... Scores in bunches... Mid-Range gamer... 

Allayah Brown - France - 2020 - Center - 6'2 - (Jamaica, NY) - New Heights - 14U - Showed some flashes of potential at The Festival, Huge upside that should take her to the next level. Strong... College frame... Size and Strength... 

Amani Byrd - 2022 - Guard - 5'7 - New York Lady Bulldogs - Combo Guard with lead Guard expectations, Young but likes to take control of the game. Strong upper body that allows her to take on contact with she is attacking. Crafty... Strong... Can score off the dribble... High Prospect for 2022... Flare in her game... Swagger...