Join us on the Black Cager Sports Talk Show as we delve into the electrifying journey of Ahmad Nowell, the shining star of Philadelphia’s scholastic basketball scene. Fresh off his stellar career at Imhotep Charter and committed to UCONN, Nowell sits down for an exclusive interview alongside his mentor Tasheed Carr, only on Black Cager Sports.
Ahmad Nowell isn’t just another high school phenom; he’s a symbol of resilience and determination. With an impressive three consecutive Public League, District 12, and PIAA State Championships, Nowell’s name is etched in the history books of Philadelphia high school basketball. But his success isn’t merely a result of talent—it’s a testament to his relentless dedication and hunger for excellence. Under the mentorship of Tasheed Carr, Nowell has honed his skills to perfection. For over six years, they’ve embarked on a journey of relentless pursuit, setting Nowell apart from his competitors. Nowell’s rise to prominence isn’t just about the roar of the crowd or championship rings—it’s about unwavering determination and an unparalleled work ethic.
But what sets Nowell apart on the court? He’s not just an athletic point guard; he’s a strategic mastermind with impeccable scoring instincts. With the physique of an SEC safety and the craftiness of a seasoned ballhandler, Nowell dominates on both ends of the court. His ability to finish with finesse around the basket, coupled with his deadly midrange game, makes him a force to be reckoned with. But it’s not just about what Nowell does on the court; it’s about his character and leadership off it. He’s a team player with exceptional court vision, and his defensive prowess is second to none. Nowell isn’t just chasing greatness on the court; he’s embodying it in every aspect of his life.
Join us on the Black Cager Sports Talk Show as Nowell and Carr share their journey to success. Discover how hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence have propelled Nowell to the brink of greatness. Don’t miss out on this exclusive interview—tune in and witness the story behind the legend!
Sponsored by Philadelphia Youth Basketball and Next Step Vocational Services.
The impending closure of Math, Civics and Sciences High School casts a poignant shadow over Philadelphia’s storied basketball landscape. In a city where the game is more than a pastime but a cultural cornerstone, the loss of the Mighty Elephant program resonates deeply.
The Philadelphia Public League has a long and distinguished basketball tradition. The city game has been the core of scholastic sports in Philadelphia for 125 years. Over the course of the first 100 years, traditional high schools West Philadelphia, Overbrook, Southern, Central and Gratz captured 79 boys basketball championships.
Then shit changed…
The narrative shifted dramatically with the rise of charter schools. Dan Brinkley and Prep Charter ushered in a new era in 2007, forever altering the competitive landscape. Since then, traditional powerhouses have found themselves grappling with the influx of charters, drawing talent from across the city and beyond.
A few traditional high schools have managed to win a single Public League title in the Charter era. Lou Biester triumphed with Communication Tech in 2008, Rob Moore and Constitution’s reigned supreme in 2012, and Sean Colson and Martin L. King, Jr. sat on the throne in 2014.
Other than those isolated seasons, Charters have ruled the roost. Indeed, Imhotep has emerged as a prominent national power. This weekend, Andre Noble’s Panthers will capture, what seems like, their 383rd Public League Championship. Noble has shaped the Charter era landscape. He is akin to a Public League version of John Wooden
As the current season unfolds, anticipation hangs heavy over the Public League playoffs, with Imhotep poised to clinch yet another title. However, amidst the fervor of competition lies a bittersweet moment as the basketball community prepares to bid farewell to Math, Civics and Sciences High School. In February 2020, led by the exceptional Wooga Poplar, MCS secured the Public League Championship, a testament to their prowess on the court. The Mighty Elephants have served as a bastion of excellence, producing a cadre of standout players who could have chosen any program but opted for MCS.
Here is a list of some of the outstanding performers that have donned the Mighty Elephant uniform over the past quarter century:
Wooga Poplar Samir Doughty Mike Watkins Lump Worthem Malik Starkes Quadir Welton Britton Lee Lou Myers, Jr. Terquin Mott, Jr. Thomas Moore Kwahmere Gredic Zaahir Smith Jose Ortiz Eric Johnson
From Poplar to Doughty, Watkins to Starkes, the list reads like a who’s who of Philadelphia basketball talent, each name leaving an indelible mark on the game. Their legacy transcends mere statistics, enriching the city’s basketball tapestry with their skill and dedication.
As we bid adieu to Math, Civics and Sciences High School, we also bid farewell to a proud institution steeped in tradition. Their absence will be keenly felt, a void in the tapestry of Philadelphia basketball that may never be fully filled. Yet, amidst the lament, we celebrate the legacy they leave behind and the countless lives they’ve touched through the sport they loved.
In the heart of the Main Line, at the Finneran Pavilion, a homecoming of immense significance is set to unfold. Donta Scott, a fifth-year senior and star player for the Maryland Terrapins, returns to his roots to face the Kyle Neptune’s Villanova Wildcats. This homecoming marks a pivotal moment in Scott’s remarkable journey from Imhotep Charter High School to the University of Maryland, showcasing not only his prowess on the basketball court but also the positive influence of his alma mater and the nurturing guidance of Coach Andre Noble.
Imhotep Charter High School was founded in 1998 to offer an African-centered education that emphasizes STEM subjects. Over the past two decades, Imhotep has developed nationally recognized athletic programs in several sports while maintaining a small, nurturing learning environment. It became the cradle of Donta Scott’s academic and athletic development, providing an intimate family-like environment that went well beyond traditional education. Delgreco Wilson, an educational consultant, recognizing Scott’s need for a supportive academic setting and strong special education program, recommended Imhotep Charter School to his family when Scott was completing the 8th grade.
According to Wilson, “Donta was behind academically, he needed to find a high school that would embrace him academically, socially and emotionally. His basketball development was well underway by the time he was a 9th grader. His mother, Sandra Campbell and his mentor, Howard Hudson wanted to ensure his development off the court.”
“I personally reached out to Andre Noble and asked him to meet with Donta and his family. Noble and the special education staff at Imhotep spelled out a clear plan for Donta and after that meeting he became an Imhotep Panther.”
Coach Noble played a pivotal role in welcoming Scott into the Imhotep family. Imhotep became more than just a school; it was a community that embraced Scott in every aspect of his development.
On the basketball court, Donta Scott’s time at Imhotep was nothing short of legendary. He played a key role in leading the team to three consecutive PIAA Class 4A State Championships and three Philadelphia Public League championships. Scott’s prowess earned him the distinction of being named the PIAA Class 4A Player of the Year twice. Notably, he played a crucial role in ending Montverde Academy’s 55-game home winning streak, showcasing his versatility by playing various positions (forward, shooting guard and point guard) under Noble’s guidance.
Imhotep not only molded Scott into a basketball star but also ensured he was “college-ready” academically, socially, and emotionally. Noble and the Imhotep staff laid the foundation for Scott’s successful transition to college life. His academic journey at the University of Maryland is particularly impressive considering the learning disability he overcame during his formative years.
Wilson emphasized the societal challenges faced by young Black men dealing with learning difficulties, stating, “Young Black guys struggle, and there’s a stigma attached to learning difficulty.” Imhotep provided Scott with an environment where he could learn how to learn, fostering a mature and thoughtful young man ready to face the challenges of higher education.
Scott’s excellence on and off the court garnered attention from universities across the nation, including Temple, Florida, Penn State, Georgetown, Seton Hall, and South Carolina. However, his comfort with the academic support staff at the University of Maryland (UMD) played a crucial role in his decision. Scott’s commitment to taking control of his life, both academically and athletically, showcased the values instilled in him during his time at Imhotep.
As Donta Scott steps onto the court tonight at Finneran Pavilion, it’s not just a basketball game; it’s a testament to the transformative power of education and mentorship. Imhotep Charter High School, under the guidance of Coach Andre Noble, provided Scott with more than just a foundation for a successful basketball career; it equipped him with the tools to navigate life’s challenges and excel in a top-tier university. Scott’s journey from Imhotep to Maryland exemplifies the impact that a nurturing environment and supportive mentors can have on an individual’s holistic development.
COLLEGE PARK, MD – August 23, 2023 – Hats off to Donta Scott – a true inspiration and a shining example of perseverance! As you stand on the brink of your graduation from the University of Maryland, we can’t help but be immensely proud of your remarkable journey. Your unwavering dedication and unyielding spirit have brought you to this incredible milestone.
From being a four-year starter on the Men’s Basketball team to becoming an author of “WIRED DIFFERENTLY: My School Journey,” you’ve not only conquered the courts but also your own personal challenges. Your book, a poignant narrative of your struggles during elementary and middle school, resonates deeply with those who learn differently. Your willingness to share your firsthand experiences is a beacon of hope, inspiring countless young individuals to triumph over their own obstacles.
In this celebration of your matriculation and impending graduation, we must acknowledge the pivotal role played by your mother, Sandra Campbell, and your mentor, Howard Hudson. Their exceptional guidance and unwavering support have undoubtedly been the bedrock of your success. Your journey is a testament to your fortitude and determination, and it’s equally a tribute to the love and direction you’ve received from these extraordinary individuals.
So here’s to Donta Scott, a true champion in every sense of the word! Your achievement not only reflects your personal growth but also the boundless possibilities that open up when one confronts challenges head-on. As you step into this new chapter of your life, may your story continue to inspire us all to embrace our uniqueness and conquer the odds. Congratulations, Donta Scott!
PHILADELPHIA, PA – August 22, 2023 – Black Cager Sports Media is excited to announce the highly anticipated return of the Black Cager Fall Classic, showcasing a prestigious lineup of national and international high school basketball teams. The event is scheduled to take place at William Allen High School and the East Side Youth Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania from October 7-9, 2023.
This year’s tournament boasts an impressive field of teams, featuring perennial contenders that consistently rank nationally. The participating schools include Archbishop Ryan (Philadelphia, PA), Immaculate Conception (Montclair, NJ), Gwynn Park (Brandywine, MD), Archbishop Wood (Philadelphia, PA), St. Frances Academy (Baltimore, MD), Brooklyn Collegiate (Brooklyn, NY), Canada Top Flight Academy (Ottawa, Ontario), and Neumann-Goretti (Philadelphia, PA). These powerhouse teams will converge in Allentown for a weekend of fierce competition and unparalleled talent
An astounding total of eighty teams will gather to compete in this year’s event, representing five states, the District of Columbia, and Canada. The Black Cager Fall Classic has historically held a prominent place in the national high school basketball calendar, and its return to Allentown, Pennsylvania marks a significant milestone. Over the course of eight years, the tournament has consistently showcased some of the nation’s most exceptional players. Alumni of the event include luminaries such as Collin Gillespie (Villanova/NBA), Ace Baldwin (VCU/Penn State), Donta Scott (Maryland), Hakim Hart (Maryland/Villanova), Eric Dixon (Villanova), Lucas Monroe (Pennsylvania/Drexel), Jalen Duren (Memphis/NBA), DJ Wagner (Kentucky), Lance Ware (Kentucky/Villanova), Hysier Miller (Temple), Ruben Rodriguez (Rider), Lynn Greer III (Saint Joseph’s), Zion Stanford (Temple), and Derek Simpson (Rutgers), many of whom have gone on to achieve success in college basketball and even the NBA.
This year’s Black Cager Fall Classic promises to be a spotlight for the emerging stars of tomorrow, providing an unparalleled platform for young talents to shine. For the past eight years, the event has played a pivotal role in shaping the path to college basketball success. Impressively, nearly eighty percent of Philadelphia-area players who secured Division 1 scholarships within this period have participated in at least one Fall Classic.
Mark your calendars for the Saturday, October 7th through Sunday, October 8th timeframe, as the Black Cager Fall Classic prepares to captivate basketball enthusiasts with exhilarating matchups and extraordinary talent on display. Team registration is already underway, and anticipation for the event is building as teams gear up to showcase their skills on this prestigious stage.
For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, and further information, please contact:
Media Contact:
Delgreco Wilson, Founder, Black Cager Sports blackcager@gmail.com 856-366-0992
Follow us on social media for updates and highlights: Instagram: @BlackCagerPress Threads: blackcagerpress Facebook: Black Cager Press
Black Cager Sports Media is a leading platform dedicated to promoting, covering, and celebrating basketball excellence at the high school level. Through events, media coverage, and community engagement, Black Cager Sports Media aims to foster growth and development among young athletes while providing a platform for their talents to shine.
Ahmad Nowell’s commitment ceremony was a resounding success, reflecting the magnitude of the occasion and the significance of his decision. The City Athletics Sports Facility located at 19th and Tioga in North Philly served as the perfect venue for this momentous event, accommodating about 200 eager spectators who came to witness Nowell’s choice.
Ahmad Nowell flanked by two of his Imhotep teammates
The atmosphere was undoubtedly charged with anticipation and excitement as friends, family, coaches, teammates, and basketball enthusiasts gathered to show their support for the rising basketball star. With the spotlight firmly on Nowell, the ceremony commenced, and all eyes were on him as he prepared to announce his college decision.
Tasheed Carr, Nowell’s mentor, played an integral role in ensuring the event’s success. Not only did he provide unwavering support throughout Nowell’s basketball journey, but he also organized a spread of delectable dishes that left a lasting impression on the attendees. The menu, featuring perfectly fried fish, potato salad, macaroni salad, green beans, and other mouth-watering treats, added a touch of warmth and hospitality to the occasion.
The commitment ceremony exuded an air of professionalism and class, fitting for a scholar-athlete of Nowell’s caliber who was making one of the most critical decisions of his young career. It highlighted not only his basketball prowess but also his commitment to excelling in both academics and athletics.
The event was a reflection of Nowell’s character and the values instilled in him by his mother, Teneka Greer. It demonstrated his ability to handle pressure with grace and poise, traits that undoubtedly contribute to his immense success on the basketball court. Nowell’s choice of the University of Connecticut as his college destination was met with enthusiastic cheers and applause, further cementing his position as a beloved and highly respected Philly PG with a bright future ahead.
The commitment ceremony was more than just an announcement; it was a celebration of Nowell’s achievements and a recognition of the hard work and dedication he has poured into his basketball career. It was a moment for Nowell to shine brightly in the spotlight, surrounded by those who have supported and believed in him from the beginning. The Imhotep Charter basketball program was well represented by Head Coach Andre Noble and the full slate of assistant coaches and players. Rob Brown, Director and Founder of the Team Final Basketball club was there to support Nowell. The leadership of Philly Pride, a rival basketball club, was also in attendance to pay respect to Nowell.
Rodney Veney, Philly Pride and Randy Miller, The Miller Report
As Nowell’s journey continues, he can look back on this well-executed commitment ceremony as a symbol of his determination and the beginning of an exciting chapter in his basketball career. With his talent, maturity, and the unwavering support of those around him, there is no doubt that Ahmad Nowell will leave a lasting impact both on and off the basketball court as he takes on the immense challenge of competing in the Big East Conference for the UConn Huskies.
Ahmad Nowell’s commitment to Coach Dan Hurley and the reigning National Champion University of Connecticut Men’s Basketball program is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport of basketball. Rising through the ranks as a standout player at Imhotep Charter High School in Philadelphia, Nowell has already garnered attention and praise for his skills on the court, placing him in the Top 30 players in the class of 2024, according to ESPN.
Philadelphia has long been known as a breeding ground for elite basketball guards, and Nowell is no exception to this tradition. His commitment to compete in the highly competitive Big East Conference after graduating in June 2024 is a significant achievement that speaks to his ability and potential as a player. Among his final four choices, including Tennessee, Kentucky, and Georgia Tech, Nowell ultimately chose UConn, a program with a rich history and a legacy of national championship success.
One of Nowell’s standout qualities is his versatility as a 2-way player. He excels not only as a defender but also as a playmaker, showcasing his ability to make an impact on both ends of the court. His steady development as a point guard has been evident, and his consistency as a jump shooter has improved over time. Moreover, Nowell has demonstrated his comfort in playing at an elite level in scholastic basketball, which was exemplified through his highly productive performances on the Nike EYBL circuit.
During his time at Imhotep Charter High School, Nowell has displayed leadership and took on a prominent role in the team’s offense, even with the presence of a Florida Gulf Coast freshman point guard, Rahmir Barno. Nowell’s ability to make the right decisions on the court and his confidence in his skills allowed him to be one of the top assist-makers on the EYBL circuit while also excelling as a scorer.
Nowell’s selection of UConn as his college destination indicates that he is not only an exceptional basketball player but also a serious and mature scholar-athlete. Clearly, the young man is ready and willing to rumble for minutes. His respectful and dignified demeanor reflects his understanding of the responsibility that comes with representing a prestigious university on the national stage. His mother, Teneka and Carr, have undoubtedly played a significant role in his development as a well-rounded individual both on and off the court.
Looking at the successes of other guards from the Philadelphia region in the Big East Conference, such as Kyle Lowry (Villanova), Maurice Watson, Jr. (Creighton), Collin Gillespie (Villanova), and Stevie Mitchell (Marquette), Nowell exhibits many of the traits that facilitated their seamless transitions to the collegiate level. He is tenacious, unselfish, and a defensive-minded playmaker, with exceptional ball-handling and decision-making skills.
As Nowell embarks upon his senior year at Imhotep Charter High School, he will face the challenge of leading the Panthers through a demanding schedule, including the Philadelphia Public League and the PIAA playoffs. With the departure of Barno (Florida Gulf Cost) and last year’s number #1 prospect, Justin Edwards (Kentucky), Nowell will undoubtedly be called upon to be the guiding force for his team. However, his maturity, outstanding confidence and ability to make decisions under pressure make him well-equipped for the challenge.
Ahmad Nowell (r) and his mother, Teneka Greer
It is not unreasonable to expect that by the time March arrives, Ahmad Nowell’s name will be etched in the pantheon of great Philadelphia guards, joining the ranks of legendary players like Guy Rodgers, Tee Parham, Earl Monroe, Andre McCarter, Pooh Richardson, Howie Evans, Kyle Lowry, and Collin Gillespie. UConn is gaining a college-ready point guard with the potential to leave a lasting mark on their program and help maintain their position as a national powerhouse in college basketball.
We are witnessing the evolution of the highly desired and widely respected “Philly Guard.” As Philadelphia Black Basketball Hall of Famer, Kyle Lowry, begins to wind down his magnificent career, a potential successor to his Philly Guard throne has emerged. Allow me to nominate Ahmad Nowell ’24 (Imhotep/Team Final), a highly skilled and tenacious point guard who commands the basketball court with his exceptional skills and unwavering intensity. Standing 6’1” and built like a hard hitting SEC/Big 10 safety, Nowell possesses a rare combination of talent, toughness, and a relentless competitive spirit that sets him apart from his peers.
Ahmad Nowell, ’24, Imhotep Charter High School (Photo: Gavin Bethell)
Nowell is a certified and bonafide winner. As a freshman in Memphis, his team won a state championship. His Imhotep Panther squads have won 99.9999999% of their matchups and he leads the current number 1 seed, Team Final 17U, on the prestigious EYBL Circuit. No matter what setting or context, Nowell exhibits exceptional ball-handling skills and an ability to orchestrate an offense with precision. His mastery over the basketball is evident as he effortlessly weaves through defenders, utilizing a wide array of dribble moves and crossovers. His quickness and agility allow him to create separation and penetrate the defense, opening up scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
With a strong mid-range offensive game, Nowell excels at the lost art of stopping suddenly and pulling up for accurate jump shots from the outside or driving to the basket for acrobatic finishes. He possesses exceptional court vision, reading the defense and making smart decisions to find open teammates for scoring opportunities. His ability to control the tempo of the game and make split-second decisions makes him an invaluable asset on the court.
He has caught the attention of the BIG BOYS. Nowell is a SUPAHIGHMAJAH prospect… Kentucky (SEC), Tennessee (SEC), UConn (Big East) and Georgia Tech (ACC) are currently engaged in a fierce battle for his services.
Offensively, Nowell’s craftiness extends beyond his scoring abilities. He possesses excellent passing skills and a high basketball IQ, allowing him to make precise and creative assists. Whether it’s threading the needle with a pinpoint bounce pass or delivering a well-timed alley-oop, Nowell consistently finds ways to make his teammates better and elevate the overall performance of his team’s offense.Nowell’s competitiveness and intensity shine through on the defensive end as well. He NEVER, EVER backs down… He seeks out the challenge of defending the best players on the opposing teams. He possesses quick hands and exceptional lateral quickness, enabling him to stay in front of his opponents and disrupt their offensive flow. His defensive tenacity and disciplined approach frustrate opposing guards, forcing turnovers and creating scoring opportunities in transition.
Nowell and his Imhotep teammates (Photo: Gavin Bethell)
Known for his toughness, Nowell epitomizes the Imhotep basketball culture developed by Andre Noble over the past 2 decades. He thrives in high-pressure situations, always stepping up when his team needs him the most. His leadership qualities and vocal presence on the court inspire his teammates to give their all and elevate their own performances.
Ahmad Nowell and Tasheed Carr after State Championship win
Off the court, he has benefitted immensely from Tasheed Carr’s guidance and nurturing. Nowell’s work ethic is unmatched. He is always in the gym. He is conscious of his diet and conditioning. His weight never fluctuates. His coaches consistently state that his often the first to arrive at practice and the last to leave, relentlessly honing his skills and pushing himself to improve. His dedication to the game and his teammates serves as a motivating force for everyone around him.
Ahmad Nowell is the quintessential “Philly Guard” in 2023-2024. Highly skilled, tough, and intensely competitive, he is ranked among the top 30 in the nation by ESPN. With his exceptional ball-handling, strong mid-range offensive game, and outstanding defensive abilities, he dominates the court on both ends. Nowell’s leadership, tenacity, and relentless pursuit of excellence make him an invaluable asset to any team. Whenever you get an opportunity to watch him play with his Panther teammates, please take advantage of it. Nowell is setting the new standard for what it means to be a true Philly point guard.
PHILADELPHIA – Black Cager Sports (BCS) Television today announced it will broadcast at least 20 premier scholastic basketball games during the 2022-23 season. BCS Television has agreed to broadcast games featuring several of the top high school programs in the Mid-Atlantic Region, the premier recruiting base for high major college programs.
Beginning in December, in accordance with the start of the high school basketball season in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland, BCS Television’s Video-On-Demand (VOD) package will add Salesianum (DE), Constitution, Westtown, George School, Muhlenberg, Reading and Trenton Catholic boy’s basketball games to its elite schedule of Philadelphia Catholic League matchups.
“We are proud to expand upon our long-standing relationships with several Philadelphia Catholic League programs and further bolster our position as the premier place to watch ‘bigBOYbasketball’ in the Mid-Atlantic region,” said BCS Television Chief Executive Officer and Executive Producer, Delgreco Wilson.“Neumann-Goretti, Roman Catholic, Archbishop Wood, Archbishop Ryan and West Catholic are nationally respected programs. Players like Robert Wright III, Khaafiq Myers, Xzayvier Brown, Anthony Finkley, Jalil Bethea, Thomas Sorber and Zion Stanford have attracted college coaches from the Big 10, Big 12, ACC, Big East, American and Atlantic 10 Conferences. The Philadelphia Catholic League remains one of the most storied scholastic basketball leagues in the nation.”
“BCS Television is pleased to provide extensive coverage of elite high school basketball during the 2022-23 season and throughout the whole year,” said Wilson. “From sports talk shows, livestreams and video-on-demand, we’re focused on opening new doors for high school basketball players and coaches to share their stories and to shine a light on our unique regional cultural experience. BCS Television is the ultimate destination for free, quality ‘bigBOYbasketball’ content.”
BCS TV is a leading sports media provider that embraces and represents the voice of high school, grassroots and college basketball in the Mid-Atlantic region. Every day of the year, we use our platform to capture captures the rich history and continud excellence of basketball in Philadelphia, New Jersey and Maryland. The network also provides a platform for emerging creatives in sports media production, branding, and broadcasting. We offer our viewers the best in live sports, sports talk shows and video-on-demand. Launched in 2013, BCS TV is headquartered in Camden, with offices in Baltimore and New York.
The basketball scholarship market is defined as the sum total of all the buyers (college D1, D2, JUCO and NAIA coaches) and sellers (Basketball student-athletes seeking scholarships) in the United States and the rest of the world.
Massive NCAA rule changes and the coronavirus pandemic have severely impacted the basketball scholarship market.
#1. The NCAA has made the decision to approve an extra year of eligibility for all student-athletes. This is a ‘free year’ for college students at every level. This rule change results in a decrease the number of available scholarships. Even if the NCAA allows more than 13 D1 scholarships, there may not be an appetite to absorb the financial hit resulting from extra scholarships in many cash strapped athletic departments. For every senior that stays an additional year, that is one fewer scholarship that hits the market.
#2. NCAA is set to implement legislation that will grant first-time transfers Immediate Eligibility. Athletes can soon transfer schools and play immediately. … An athlete’s previous school would not have any ability to object to the transfer. This rule change will alter the behavior of the college coaches in the recruitment process. A 20 year old with 2 years of college experience and 3 seasons of NCAA eligibility is more desirable than the typical high school recruit. Many college programs are not actively recruiting high school players.
#3. Students who initially enroll full time during the 2021-22 academic year and intend to play NCAA Division I or II athletics will not be required to take a standardized test to meet NCAA initial-eligibility requirements. As a result, students that would have been ineligible because of low test scores are now eligible if the have at least a 2.3 gpa.
Considered individually, each of the rule changes put pressure on the basketball scholarship market. Emerging simultaneously, they have flooded the basketball scholarship market.
High School seniors are competing against the current crop of NCAA seniors, current NCAA players that could immediately play upon transferring and players that would not have met the minimum test score requirement.
This market is flooded…
On top of all that, college coaches have not been able to evaluate high school players live since March.
Good players, even really good players need to be connected to college coaches… Recent video performance in highly competitive settings is the very best a student-athlete could do right now…
Coaches are evaluating prospects via video…
Below is a brief clip with Aaron Lemon-Warren and Christian Tomasco highlights. There is also a link for the complete game against #6 St. Frances Academy (MD).
Lemon-Warren are Division 1 basketball prospects with solid academic profiles. America East, NEC, CAA, MAAC, MEAC, Patriot League and perhaps even A10 programs should evaluate these guys closely.
Twenty year Division 1 coach and former NBA player leverage Black Cager TV’s mass reach to bring insightful and timely conversations to college basketball fans nationwide
November 3, 2020, 3:10 PM Eastern Daylight Time CAMDEN, NJ — BlackCagerTV.com, the premier original college and high school basketball content producer in the mid-Atlantic region, today announced the official launch of “Bass & Wayns on College Basketball,” a Black Cager TV Original Podcast hosted by Mark Bass and Maalik Wayns. Bass is former longtime assistant coach at St. Joseph’s University and Wayns is a former McDonald’s All-American and NBA player. The show will join the Black Cager TV Network and will explore some of the most important issues and transformative trends through insightful and engaging conversations that span recruiting, player evaluations, NCAA rule changes and other pressing topics. The premiere episode will be available mid-November on BlackCagerTV.com and YouTube.com.
Known as one of the best recruiters and teachers in the business, Bass will help parents and prospective student-athletes know which tough questions to ask and how not to take “nonsensical responses” or “no comment” for an answer. Wayns just completed a wonderful playing career that took him to the NBA and across the globe. “Bass & Wayns on College Basketball” is yet another example of Black Cager TV’s commitment to providing practical, useful and entertaining original basketball related content to viewers across the country.
”I’m finally done playing… I am proud of what I have been able to accomplish at the grassroots, scholastic, collegiate and professional levels. Now that I am no longer focused on my own playing career, I am able to devote my energies to helping young people navigate the basketball landscape. I am insatiably curious about the basketball world and at this moment in time, things are changing at breakneck speed. In the face of seismic NCAA rule changes and the coronavirus pandemic, I will try to connect the dots for kids and their families and I’m excited to take listeners along for the ride,” Wayns said. “With the help of an incredible line-up of guests and the unmatched reach of Black Cager TV, I’m excited to have listeners across the nation examine these fascinating and urgent topics so they can come to a better understanding of what’s happening and where we’re going.”
Bass notes, “I have coached several NBA players such as Delonte West, Jameer Nelson, Dwayne Jones, Deandre Bembry, Langston Galloway and Charlie Brown. Each journey to that league was unique. There are no shortcuts. What each of them did possess was an incredible work ethic. More than anything else, that allowed them to shape their skill set into a package that added value to an NBA team. Along with Maalik, who I coached against, I want help kids and their families gain a better understanding of what to expect at the collegiate level. Black Cager TV is highly regarded among college coaches and parents and it’s the perfect platform for us to share our thoughts and ideas.”
In addition to digital availability, full episodes and vignettes of “Bass & Wayns on College Basketball” will air on BlackCagerTV.com and YouTube.com, bringing their important voice to the more 100,000 Black Cager monthly viewers.
“Black Cager TV is committed to growing its vast original content library with culturally relevant content every day,” said Delgreco Wilson, Founder of the Black Cager TV Network. “With the addition of ‘Bass & Wayns on Callege Basketball,’ we aim to give viewers nuanced and expert perspectives on basketball topics affecting players and their families from two of Philadelphia Big 5’s best players. At this point in history, and amidst the nonstop daily news cycle, we need experienced and incisive perspectives on the issues that matter – and that’s Bass & Wayns.”
Black Cager TV content is available on instagram, facebook, twitter, YouTube and BlackCagerTV.com. It can be accessed through many different connected devices — including smart speakers, digital auto dashes, tablets, wearables, smartphones, virtual assistants, televisions and gaming consoles.
About Black Cager Sports Media Black Cager Sports is a premier minority owned online network dedicated to covering elite High School, College and Grassroots programs in the mid-Atlantic region. The network is the ultimate destination for hoop heads and alumni throughout the mid-Atlantic region, allowing them to see their favorite teams, regardless of where they live. Reaching over 100,000 viewers and hundreds of college coaches per month, Black Cager has a greater reach among college coaches than most other media companies in the U.S. The company’s leadership position extends across multiple platforms including live streaming games and on demand via its Black Cager TV pay-per-view service. Visit BlackCagerTV.com for more company information.
About Mark Bass Mark Bass, one of the most prolific shooters in Saint Joseph’s history, coached 20 seasons at his alma mater and was the longest tenured assistant coach in SJU men’s basketball history. Bass joined the Hawks’ staff in 1999-2000 and during his tenure, he helped coach teams that have made six consecutive post-season appearances, won five Atlantic 10 regular-season titles and captured the 2016 and 2014 A-10 titles. Nine years after he led the Hawks to the NIT Final as a player in 1996, Bass again helped SJU reach New York City and the NIT Final as a coach in 2005.
A fiery leader on the court, and two-year team captain, Bass led the Hawks to the NIT Finals in his senior season, 1995-96, and ranked second on the team with his average of 14.3 points per game. He connected for school records of 91 3-pointers and 268 attempts, season marks which were later eclipsed by Pat Carroll in 2005. A Second Team All-Big 5 selection in 1996, Bass made 225 three-pointers during his career from 1992-96, a total that now ranks sixth on the Hawks’ all-time list. As a freshman, the guard led the Atlantic 10 Conference in free throw percentage with a school-record 86.9 percent, a mark which was broken by Langston Galloway in 2011-12 (88.7). Bass also led the A-10 in three-point percentage as a junior (.423), making him just the second Saint Joseph’s player to lead the league in two different categories. In 2001, Bass became the first member of the 1996 NIT Finalist team to be inducted into the Saint Joseph’s Basketball Hall of Fame.
About Maalik Wayns Wayns played high school basketball for Roman Catholic High School in Philadelphia. As a Junior, he averaged 22.4 points, 5.1 assists, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.1 steals. Wayns was also a two-time MVP in the Philadelphia Catholic League and also first team all-city and all-state in Pennsylvania. As a Senior, Wayns averaged 19.2 points, 5.1 rebounds and 5.5 assists. He was named a Parade All-American and McDonald’s All-American and at the end of the year.
Wayns chose to attend Villanova. He was named Big East All-Rookie Team and won the Big East Rookie of the Week three times. Wayns finished with 6.8 points and 1.3 assists. As a junior in 2011–12, Wayns earned second-team All-Big East honors after averaging 17.6 points per game. He played in the NBA for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Clippers. He also professionally in Italy, Russia, Israel, Spain and Belarus.
The Black Cager 