Nerlens Noel, 2013, BABC
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. -- Every year, the perfect way to end the first half of the July live period is the Nike Peach Jam. The past two years, with the advent of the Elite Youth Basketball League, the competition at the Riverview Park Activities Center has been taken to a new level.
The top 24 Nike-affiliated AAU teams after three separate events in the spring reached the final tournament in South Carolina, with the winner emerging as the true travel team champion.
Team Takeover, which entered with a 15-0 regular season record, struggled during pool play and was knocked out in the quarterfinals, while regular-season division champions CIA Bounce and Houston Hoops did not reach the quarterfinals. The final four were comprised of Georgia Stars, YOMCA Memphis, BABC and Oakland Soldiers. The four battled it out Friday for the right to be crowned as the Peach Jam champion.
Nerlens Noel, 2013, BABC:
One of the top players in the class of 2013, Noel is one of the best defensive players to come on the circuit in recent memory. His length and timing make him an outstanding shot-blocker, and he is quickly improving his offensive game.
Kyle Anderson, 2012, NJ Playaz: Anderson racked up three triple-doubles at the Peach Jam, using his passing ability and 6-foot-8 size to pose a major match-up problem for opponents. He is unstoppable in the mid-range and is getting better from deep.
Aaron Gordon, 2013, Oakland Soldiers:
Gordon’s skill set and athleticism are nearly unparalleled in the high school game. He is a 6-7 forward who runs the floor like a guard, finishes with authority at the rim and can also play well in a half-court setting.
Julius Randle, 2013, Texas Titans:
Randle seemingly did whatever he wanted offensively for most of the tournament. The lefty junior is difficult to contain because of his strength, aggressiveness and ball-handling ability. He consistently drove into contact and was able to finish.
Jabari Parker, 2013, Mac Irvin Fire:
Parker is simply an outstanding all-around prospect. After redefining his body over the past year, Parker has become arguably the top player in the country – regardless of class. He can make tough shots from all over the court and has a versatile game.
Brice Johnson, 2012, CP3 All-Stars:
Johnson has shown flashes of his potential in the past, but he really made a statement this week. He is long and athletic, and he runs the floor like a gazelle. His back-to-the-basket game is improving, as well. One BCS coach called him a future lottery pick.
Archie Goodwin, 2012, Arkansas Wings:
Despite breaking his left wrist one month ago, Goodwin led the event in scoring through pool play. He is one of the most aggressive offensive players in the country, relentlessly driving to the basket and looking to dunk on defenders.
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