Jerome Brewer’s La Salle University Homecoming: A Lesson in Maturity and Purpose

April 8, 2025 By in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

CAMDEN, NJ – In an era when college basketball players often chase the brightest spotlight or the most lucrative NIL deals, Jerome Brewer’s decision to return home stands as a rare act of introspection and social responsibility. The 6’8” forward, who has navigated a winding collegiate journey from Texas A&M Commerce to McNeese State, could have followed his former coach to North Carolina State or sought a bigger stage elsewhere. Instead, he chose La Salle University—not just for basketball, but to fulfill a deeper mission.

Brewer’s choice reflects a maturity beyond his years. At a time when young athletes are frequently pressured to prioritize immediate success, he considered something more enduring: his ability to influence the next generation. His insistence that La Salle facilitate access for Camden City Public School students to games and practices isn’t a mere publicity gesture; it’s an intentional effort to reinforce the values that shaped him.

“Sports act as an agent of socialization,” Brewer said, articulating a perspective more common among seasoned coaches than 22-year-old players. “They teach values, behaviors, and skills—teamwork, communication, resilience.” His words underscore an awareness of basketball’s broader role, one that extends far beyond the box score.

This understanding didn’t emerge in a vacuum. Brewer’s formative years were spent in Camden’s gyms, where the game was both an escape and an education. After a brief stint in the Philadelphia Catholic League, he returned to Camden High, helping restore its basketball prominence alongside future Division I standouts. When college offers didn’t meet his expectations, he bet on himself—first at prep school, then in the Southland Conference, where he blossomed into an All-League performer before injury intervened.

His resilience was tested again last year when he redshirted at McNeese State, biding his time for the right opportunity. When it arrived, he weighed his options with the discernment of someone who recognizes that a career is more than stats or conference prestige. He thought of his younger brother, Domani, a budding seventh-grade phenom who now has a front-row seat to his brother’s final collegiate chapters. He thought of Camden’s kids, who will see in him a path forward.

Camden Mayor Vic Carstarphen, a former Temple standout under John Chaney, praised Brewer’s character, calling him “one of the finest student-athletes to come through Camden in recent years.” City Councilman Arthur Barclay, who played for John Calipari at Memphis, highlighted Brewer’s potential as a role model: “He was one of them not long ago. Now, he’s showing them what’s possible.”

La Salle, under new coach Darris Nichols, gains not just a versatile forward who can stretch defenses and guard multiple positions, but a leader who grasps the weight of his platform. In return, Brewer gets a chance to cement his legacy where it matters most—at home.

In an age of fleeting allegiances and transactional relationships, Brewer’s decision is a reminder that some choices are about more than basketball. They’re about purpose. And in that regard, his homecoming is already a victory.

A Clash of Titans: Auriemma and Staley Meet Again, With Philadelphia Ties Binding Them

April 5, 2025 By in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , Leave a comment

PHILADELPHIA, PA – For the past 40 years, I’ve had a front-row seat to Phil Martelli’s brilliant college basketball mind—from the days when his “office” at Saint Joseph’s was little more than a converted broom closet in Alumni Memorial Fieldhouse to his 24-year reign as head coach. Phil was, and remains, my guy. And because he’s my guy, I’ve also been privy to the quiet confidence, the generational rivalries, and the Philadelphia-bred connections that have shaped the modern era of women’s college basketball.

Dawn Staley, resplendent in the Gucci drip

This Sunday’s national championship game between Geno Auriemma’s UConn Huskies and Dawn Staley’s South Carolina Gamecocks isn’t just a battle of the sport’s two best programs—it’s a collision of legacies, Philadelphia ties, and a coach’s unshakable belief in his homie.

At the peak of Geno’s dominance, when his UConn teams seemed invincible, I’d pop into Martelli’s office and tell him, “She’s coming.” Dawn Staley—the North Philly legend, the Raymond Rosen Projects product, the point guard who played with the ferocity of someone who knew the game owed her nothing—was closing the gap. Martelli, ever loyal to his longtime friend Geno, would shrug. “Nah, Del. Geno’s got this thing wired.”

Geno Auriemma, UCONN coaching legend

But then A’ja Wilson arrived in Columbia. Then came the national titles, the undefeated seasons, the undeniable truth: Dawn Staley had ascended to the throne once occupied by Pat Summitt and Geno himself. Now, she stands alongside Kim Mulkey as the new standard-bearers of the sport. And yet, Geno—ever the competitor—wants his crown back.

This morning, at 6 a.m., my phone buzzed with texts from Martelli. Of course, he’s riding with Geno. That’s what Phil does. But me? I’m riding with Dawn, the kid from NORF Philly who turned into a queen.

May the best team win. But know this: No matter the outcome, Philadelphia’s fingerprints are all over this game. And that, more than anything, is worth celebrating.

The Vital Role of Civil Society in Preserving Democracy: Lessons from Blanche Nixon’s Legacy

April 3, 2025 By in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , Leave a comment

By Delgreco K. Wilson

PHILADELPHIA, PA — On a bright afternoon this week, my family gathered at the Blanche A. Nixon/Cobbs Creek Branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia for a rededication ceremony honoring my great-aunt’s legacy. Blanche Nixon was a petite but formidable woman, a relentless advocate for the children of Southwest Philadelphia, who believed fiercely in their potential. “There’s no such thing as a bad child,” she often said, and her life’s work reflected that conviction. She understood that civil society—the network of libraries, schools, churches, and community organizations operating outside direct government control—was the lever by which marginalized youth could be uplifted, their talents nurtured, and their futures secured.

The Free Library of Philadelphia, Blanche A. Nixon Branch, Cobbs Creek

The timing of this celebration could not be more significant. As America’s 250th anniversary approaches, the nation finds itself at a precarious juncture, one in which the very foundations of an inclusive, truthful historical narrative are under siege. Public institutions—particularly libraries—will be called upon as never before to sustain democracy by preserving access to knowledge, fostering civic engagement, and resisting the erosion of fact in favor of political expediency.

The Assault on Truth and the Role of Civil Society

Recent years have seen a deliberate campaign to narrow the scope of American history, stripping it of its complexities and contradictions. President Donald Trump’s executive order targeting so-called “critical race theory” in schools was just one salvo in a broader effort to enforce a sanitized version of the past—one that ignores the competing traditions of liberalism, civic republicanism, and the ascriptive hierarchies of racism, nativism, and sexism that have shaped the nation.

Delgreco K. Wilson (author), Kim Wilson (sister) and Lea Wilson (mother)

Republican-led states have accelerated this trend, passing laws that restrict how race, gender, and systemic inequality are taught. The result is a distorted narrative, one that suggests America’s political culture has been defined solely by individualism and egalitarianism, rather than a continuous struggle between these ideals and the forces of exclusion.

In this environment, civil society must become the keeper of inconvenient truths. Libraries, universities, advocacy groups, and cultural institutions—organizations that operate independently of government and corporate control—are now essential counterweights to state-sponsored historical revisionism. They provide the spaces where marginalized stories can be told, where banned books remain accessible, and where citizens can engage in the kind of informed discourse that democracy requires.

Kelly Richards, President and Director, Free Library of Philadelphia

Why Libraries Are Democracy’s Lifeline

Public libraries, in particular, stand as one of the last truly democratic institutions in America. They are not just repositories of books but civic hubs—what sociologists call “third spaces”—where people of all backgrounds can gather, learn, and debate without the pressures of commerce or partisan influence.

  1. Guardians of Truth in an Age of Misinformation
    In an era of algorithmic echo chambers and politicized media, libraries provide free access to vetted information. They are among the few remaining places where individuals can engage with diverse perspectives, fact-check dubious claims, and develop the media literacy necessary to navigate a fractured information landscape.
  2. Sanctuaries for Banned Knowledge
    As school boards and state legislatures remove books on race, gender, and sexuality from curricula, public libraries often become the only places where such works remain available. In doing so, they fulfill their historic role as defenders of intellectual freedom.
  3. Community Anchors in Neglected Neighborhoods
    Blanche Nixon understood that libraries are more than just buildings—they are lifelines for underserved communities. They offer job training, after-school programs, and safe spaces for children who might otherwise lack them. In neighborhoods like Cobbs Creek, they are often the only institutions providing free internet access, literacy programs, and legal resources to residents shut out of traditional power structures.
  4. Archives of Local History
    Beyond their role in education, libraries serve as living archives, preserving the stories of ordinary people whose struggles and triumphs are too often excluded from official narratives. In doing so, they ensure that history is not merely the domain of the powerful but a collective inheritance.
Daneen Nixon (Blanche Nixon’s Granddaughter), Delgreco K. Wilson (Blanche Nixon’s nephew)

The Fight Ahead

The challenges facing American democracy are not abstract. They manifest in the closure of rural libraries due to funding cuts, in the intimidation of educators who teach about systemic racism, and in the growing partisan divide over what constitutes “acceptable” knowledge.

But the rededication of the Blanche A. Nixon Library is a reminder that resistance is possible. It is a testament to the power of civil society—of individuals and institutions that refuse to let communities be defined by neglect or historical amnesia.

State Senator, Anthony Hardy Williams

Blanche Nixon’s legacy teaches us that the work of democracy is not just about elections or laws but about the daily, unglamorous labor of sustaining spaces where people can learn, question, and grow. As the nation moves toward its semiquincentennial, the survival of its democratic experiment may well depend on whether institutions like public libraries can continue to fulfill that role.

The alternative—a nation stripped of its full history, where access to knowledge is dictated by ideology—is one that figures like Blanche Nixon spent their lives fighting against. The best way to honor her memory is to ensure that fight continues.

At Water’s Edge Cafe, Charm and Crab Reign Supreme

March 30, 2025 By in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , Leave a comment

RESTAURANT REVIEW

CRISFIELD, Md. — Not every great meal requires white tablecloths, sommeliers, or a soundtrack of softly tinkling piano. Sometimes, all you need is a well-worn wooden table, a view of the Chesapeake Bay, and a kitchen that knows exactly what it’s doing. At Water’s Edge Cafe, a humble, no-frills eatery perched on the water in this sleepy Eastern Shore town, the mission is simple: serve honest, delicious food without a shred of pretension. And by that measure, it succeeds spectacularly.

Forget about chandeliers or artfully arranged amuse-bouches—this is a place where the ceiling fans might predate the Reagan administration, where the decor leans more toward “cozy dockside shack” than “design magazine spread.” But what it lacks in polish, it more than makes up for in flavor, hospitality, and sheer uncomplicated joy.

The star here is the seafood, as it should be in a town that bills itself as the “Crab Capital of the World.” My companion opted for the Crab Imperial, a dish so pure in its devotion to lump crab that it feels almost revelatory. Unlike its more structured cousin, the crab cake, this version is luxuriously loose, bound only by a whisper of imperial sauce—no filler, no fuss, just sweet, briny crab in its most unadulterated form. It arrived alongside rustic skin-on mashed potatoes and southern-style mac and cheese, both hearty and unpretentious, the kind of sides that demand a second (or third) forkful.

I went with the fried flounder, a golden, crispy-edged specimen that shatters at the touch of a fork to reveal pearlescent, moist flesh beneath. The fries were hot and salty, the cole slaw bright and tangy—no culinary pyrotechnics, just textbook execution. Even the service, delivered by our attentive and knowledgeable server, Cameron, was effortlessly warm, the kind of hospitality that feels rare in an era of over-orchestrated dining.

And then there’s the price: under $40 for two entrees and sides, a near-miraculous value in an age where a single cocktail in Manhattan can cost more.

Water’s Edge Cafe isn’t trying to be anything other than what it is—a place where good food, friendly faces, and the lapping of bay waves against the dock are the only luxuries you need. If you find yourself on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, skip the fuss and head straight here. Just don’t blame me if you start plotting a return trip before the last bite is gone.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (Excellent)
Water’s Edge Cafe — 1108 W Main St Crisfield, MD, United States, Maryland 21817 | (667) 868-4100 | No Reservations, No Pretenses

A Taste of Persia in Brooklyn: Sofreh Shines with Masterful Persian Cuisine

March 27, 2025 By in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , Leave a comment

RESTAURANT REVIEW

BROOKLYN, NY — As a Philadelphian raised on the holy trinity of Angelo’s cheesesteaks, Tony Luke’s roast pork, and the comforting embrace of melted Cooper Sharp, I rarely venture beyond the familiar. But when a trusted friend insisted on a trip to Sofreh, the celebrated Persian restaurant in Prospect Heights, I surrendered to curiosity—and left utterly enchanted.

Helmed by James Beard-nominated chef Nasim Alikhani, Sofreh is a revelation, a place where the soul of Iranian cooking is rendered with both reverence and artistry. The space itself is understated yet warm—high ceilings, black wood beams, a marble bar glowing under soft light. Reservations are fiercely sought after (book weeks ahead), yet the staff makes every guest feel like family. Before I could introduce myself, the host greeted me by name: “Delgreco, we look forward to serving you.” Such grace sets the tone for the evening.

We began with the Eggplant and Whey Dip, a lush, smoky spread crowned with crispy onions and drizzled with mint oil. But the true showstopper was the Barbari bread, a Persian flatbread so pillowy, so perfectly blistered, that it could single-handedly justify the trip. Tearing into its warm, sesame-studded crust, I understood why bread is sacred here.


For the main act, my friend chose the Dried Lime & Herb Beef Stew, a deep, tangy marvel of braised beef, kidney beans, and citrusy Persian limes. But my heart—and appetite—belonged to the Lamb Shank, a dish so sublime it bordered on spiritual. The meat, braised until it surrendered to the slightest nudge of a fork, swam in a fragrant broth of dill and dried lime, each spoonful a symphony of warmth and spice. Paired with saffron-kissed rice, the lamb was butter-soft, its richness cut by the bright, herbal notes of the broth. This wasn’t just dinner; it was an epiphany.

Sofreh doesn’t just serve food—it offers an education in Persian hospitality, where every detail, from the minimalist decor (a canvas for the vibrant dishes) to the impeccable service, feels intentional. As I left, already plotting my next visit (perhaps before a Nets game at Barclays?), I realized Sofreh had done the impossible: made a Philly guy forget about cheesesteaks, if only for one glorious night.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (Exceptional)
Sofreh — 75 St. Marks Ave, Brooklyn, NY | http://www.sofrehnyc.com | Reservations Essential

The Rise of Julian Reese: A Quiet Force in a Basketball Dynasty

March 9, 2025 By in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — On a crisp Saturday afternoon in March, senior forward Julian “JuJu” Reese stepped onto the court at the Xfinity Center for the final time in his collegiate career. With 19 points, 11 rebounds, and a commanding presence in the paint, Reese led the No. 11 Maryland Terrapins to a 74-61 victory over Northwestern. It was a fitting farewell for the Baltimore native who has quietly become one of the most dependable and impactful figures in college basketball, even as his older sister, Angel Reese, has become a national icon and a lightning rod for conversation in the sports world.

The Reese family is basketball royalty. Julian’s mother, Angel Reese Sr. (née Webb), was a standout at UMBC in the late 1980s and early 1990s, amassing 1,390 points and 932 rebounds—numbers that Julian has nearly mirrored in his own career. His aunts also played Division I basketball, and the family’s love for the game runs deep. But while Julian’s older sister, Angel, has become a household name for her brash confidence, outspoken personality, and trailblazing impact on women’s basketball, Julian has carved out his own path—one defined by steady growth, quiet determination, and an unwavering commitment to his team.

A Legacy in the Making
Julian Reese arrived at the University of Maryland in the fall of 2021 as a highly touted recruit from St. Frances Academy, a Baltimore-based basketball powerhouse. Standing at 6-foot-9 with a wingspan that seemed to stretch from baseline to baseline, Reese was a physical specimen with raw potential. He chose Maryland over offers from Seton Hall, LSU, and Temple, among others, and immediately made an impact as a freshman. Despite playing just 17.7 minutes per game, he averaged 5.7 points and 4.4 rebounds, showing flashes of the dominant force he would become.

His freshman year, however, was marred by turmoil. Eight games into the season, head coach Mark Turgeon resigned, and interim coach Danny Manning took over. The Terps finished a disappointing 15-17, but Reese’s potential was undeniable. When Kevin Willard was hired as head coach in the off-season, Reese made the decision to stay at Maryland rather than enter the transfer portal—a choice that would prove pivotal for both him and the program.

Under Willard’s guidance, Reese blossomed. As a sophomore, he became a full-time starter, nearly doubling his production to 11.4 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. Maryland improved to 22-13 and made a second-round appearance in the NCAA tournament. By his junior year, Reese had established himself as one of the top frontcourt players in the Big Ten, averaging 13.7 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game.

This season, Reese has been the anchor of a resurgent Maryland team. Alongside his former S. Frances Academy teammate, Derik Queen, Reese has helped the Terps return to national prominence. Heading into the Big Ten tournament, Maryland is ranked 13th in the nation, with Reese leading the charge. He ranks second in the Big Ten in offensive rebound percentage and first in defensive rating, a testament to his relentless work ethic and basketball IQ.

The Reese Family Dynamic
The Reese siblings are a study in contrasts. Angel, the older sister, is a force of nature—charismatic, outspoken, and unapologetically herself. She has become a cultural icon, using her platform to advocate for women’s sports and empower young girls. Her larger-than-life personality has made her one of the most recognizable athletes in the world, and her success at LSU, including a national championship in 2023, has cemented her legacy as one of the greatest players in women’s college basketball history.

Julian, by contrast, is the quiet sibling. Reserved and introspective, he prefers to let his game do the talking. While Angel thrives in the spotlight, Julian is more comfortable in the shadows, focusing on the nuances of his craft. Yet, despite their differences, the bond between the two is unshakable. Angel has been one of Julian’s biggest supporters, often cheering him on from the stands alongside their mother, grandparents, and extended family.

Their contrasting personalities reflect the duality of the Reese family’s basketball legacy. Angel is the trailblazer, the one who pushes boundaries and challenges norms. Julian is the steady hand, the one who embodies the fundamentals and traditions of the game. Together, they represent the past, present, and future of basketball—a sport that has been the lifeblood of their family for generations.

A Future in the NBA
As Julian’s collegiate career winds down, the question on everyone’s mind is whether he has what it takes to succeed at the next level. The answer, according to scouts and analysts, is a resounding yes. Reese’s combination of size, athleticism, and defensive prowess makes him a legitimate NBA prospect. His ability to finish around the rim, coupled with his elite rebounding and shot-blocking skills, has drawn comparisons to players like Clint Capela and Jarrett Allen.

While Reese’s game is not without its limitations—he has attempted just one three-pointer in the past three seasons—his strengths far outweigh his weaknesses. His mobility and versatility on defense, in particular, make him an attractive option for NBA teams in need of a rim protector and rebounder.

A Legacy Secured
Julian Reese’s journey at Maryland has been one of perseverance and growth. From a raw freshman navigating a coaching change to a senior leader poised to make a deep tournament run, Reese has left an indelible mark on the program. He will finish his career with over 1,400 points and 1,000 rebounds, joining an elite group of players who have achieved such milestones.

But more than the numbers, Reese’s legacy lies in his quiet determination and unwavering commitment to his team. In a sports landscape often dominated by flashy personalities and viral moments, Reese has been a reminder that greatness can come in many forms.

As the JuJu Reese era comes to a close, one thing is certain: the Reese family’s basketball legacy is in good hands. Whether on the court or off it, Julian Reese has proven that he is more than just Angel’s little brother. He is a star in his own right—a testament to the power of hard work, humility, and an unyielding love for the game.

A Triumph for Tradition: Father Judge’s Victory at The Palestra Rekindles the Spirit of Philadelphia Basketball

February 24, 2025 By in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , Leave a comment

PHILADELPHIA, PA – In the heart of Philadelphia, where the echoes of basketball history reverberate through the halls of The Palestra, a new chapter was written on Sunday afternoon. Father Judge High School, a proud institution from Northeast Philly, defeated defending champion Roman Catholic, 41-34, to claim the Philadelphia Catholic League Boys’ Basketball Championship. The victory, their first in 27 years, was not just a triumph for the Crusaders but a celebration of the enduring legacy of one of the most storied venues in sports.

The Palestra, the cathedral of college basketball, turned 98 this year. Since its opening in 1927, it has hosted more games, more visiting teams, and more NCAA tournaments than any other arena in the country. Its hallowed floor has been graced by legends, from Wilt Chamberlain to Kobe Bryant, and its intimate, raucous atmosphere has made it a shrine for basketball purists. Yet, in recent years, The Palestra’s relevance as a contemporary venue for college basketball has waned. The Philadelphia Big 5, once the lifeblood of the arena, no longer calls it home. Temple, Villanova, La Salle, and St. Joseph’s have opted to play their city series games on their own campuses, leaving Penn, the Palestra’s home team, as a fading force in the Ivy League.


But if the Big 5 has moved on, the Catholic League has stepped in to fill the void. The Catholic League Final Four has become the premier basketball event at The Palestra, a showcase of the city’s rich high school basketball tradition. On Saturday, approximately 10,000 fans—exceeding the arena’s official capacity of 8,700—packed into the venerable building to witness Father Judge and Roman Catholic battle for the most coveted high school championship in Pennsylvania. The atmosphere was electric, a reminder of what makes The Palestra special: the passion of the fans, the intensity of the competition, and the sense that, for a few hours, time stands still.

The game itself was a gritty, hard-fought affair, emblematic of Philadelphia basketball. Father Judge, led by head coach Chris Roantree, overcame a sluggish start to outlast Roman Catholic in a defensive slugfest. The Crusaders went the entire first quarter without a field goal, managing only two free throws, as Roman Catholic’s suffocating defense disrupted their rhythm. Sophomore point guard Tyler Sutton was a revelation for Roman, scoring 20 of his team’s 34 points and showcasing a blend of poise and skill that belied his age. But Father Judge’s senior point guard, Kevair Kennedy, weathered the storm, delivering clutch free throws down the stretch to seal the victory. His 10 points, four rebounds, and three assists may not have been eye-popping, but his leadership and resilience were instrumental in securing the title.

The game also featured a standout performance from Father Judge’s Everett Barnes, whose defensive dominance evoked memories of Bill Russell. Barnes, a towering presence in the paint, blocked shot after shot, keeping his team within striking distance during their offensive struggles. Alongside Roman Catholic’s Shareef Jackson, another formidable big man, Barnes is headed to the Patriot League next year, leaving one to wonder why Penn’s Steve Donahue didn’t make a stronger push to keep these local talents in the city. Their absence will be felt, but their performances on Saturday were a testament to the depth of talent in Philadelphia high school basketball.

For Father Judge, the victory was the culmination of a remarkable turnaround. Four years ago, Roantree took over a program that had gone 2-12 in the Catholic League. Under his guidance, the Crusaders have risen to the top, their journey a testament to the power of perseverance and belief. The postgame celebration was a scene of unbridled joy, as players, coaches, and fans reveled in a moment that had been decades in the making. For the Judge community, this championship was more than just a trophy; it was a reaffirmation of their identity and a source of immense pride.

As the final buzzer sounded and the Crusaders celebrated on the court, it was impossible not to feel the weight of history. The Palestra, with its wooden bleachers and arched rafters, has witnessed countless moments of triumph and heartbreak. On Sunday, it added another to its collection. Father Judge’s victory was a reminder of what makes this arena so special: its ability to bring people together, to create memories that last a lifetime, and to serve as a bridge between the past and the present.
In a city that loves its basketball, The Palestra remains a sacred space. While the Big 5 may have moved on, the Catholic League has ensured that the arena’s legacy endures. For one night, at least, The Palestra was once again the center of the basketball universe, and Father Judge’s Crusaders were its brightest stars.

Philly Hoopheads’ Guide to Surviving the Dry Season

February 20, 2025 By in Uncategorized Tags: , , Leave a comment

PHILADELPHIA, PA – These Philly hoop streets? They dry as a bone, baby. You can cruise every corner of this city, from the gritty blocks to the shiny high-rises, looking for that fire—Purple Haze, Kush, Modified Bananas, whatever your vice—but don’t you dare step foot in South Philly’s Wells Fargo Center. Nah, Daryl Morey and Nick Nurse out here peddling straight-up trash. That shit they pushing? TRASH! Full of seeds, won’t stay lit, burns your throat like cheap rotgut. Shit’ll leave you with a headache and no buzz, just mad as hell. You’ll wanna slap the taste outta Morey and Nurse’s mouths for putting Maxey out there on the corner hustling that garbage. Straight disrespectful.

Now, if you roll through University City, you’ll catch Steve Donahue slinging what I swear is oregano. Man, it’s a damn shame. Back in the day, the Quakers had that premium smoke at 33rd and Walnut. I ain’t lying, I used to puff on that Ugonna Onyekwe and Koko Archibong back in the day—25 years ago, that was the real deal. Before them, Jerome Allen and Matt Maloney were holding it down with that top-shelf product. You could hit that two, three times a week and never feel cheated. These days? Don’t even bother with 33rd and Walnut unless you wanna waste your time and cash.

Over at 34th and Market, Zack Spiker and Wil Chavis are pushing that reggie. Ain’t nothing special about it. Yeah, it’s better than nothing, but it ain’t gonna get you where you need to be. Smoke two, three blunts of that weak sauce, and all you’ll get is the munchies and a whole lotta disappointment.

Now, if you head up to Wynnefield, it’s a crapshoot. Some nights, you might luck up and catch that fire. I’m talking East Coast elite, smooth flavor, strong but not overwhelming. But other nights? Billy Lange’s out there slinging that same ol’ reggie. Coach Lange and Justin Scott need to find themselves a better connect, ‘cause this ain’t cutting it.

Same story at 20th and Olney. Hit it on the right night, and you’ll find that killer “Deuce Jones” strain Fran Dunphy and Donnie Carr been pushing. That’s the good stuff, baby. But too often, they dry, and you’re stuck with that same weak reggie. Heartbreaking.

Now, if you swing down North to Broad and Cecil B. Moore, prepare to be let down. Earlier this year, they had some decent “mid”—not great, but better than reggie. Lately though? Adam Fisher, Chris Clark, and Bob Jordan been serving up straight disappointment. It’s a damn shame, ‘cause John Chaney held it down for 25 years with that killer product. These new cats? They ain’t got the touch.

And don’t even get me started on the Main Line. A few years back, you couldn’t miss. Yeah, it was overpriced, but it was worth every penny. Jay Wright had that hydroponic lab on lock, harvesting that premium smoke. Every batch was fire, and the demand was sky-high. When he opened shop, it was standing room only. But since he handed the keys to Kyle Neptune and Ashley Howard? They serving “mid” now. And for hoopheads used to that top-tier Pavilion smoke, “mid” just don’t cut it.

But here’s the real deal, the not-so-secret secret. If you’re a true Philly hoophead, you know where to go: 3301 Solly Avenue in the Northeast and downtown at Broad and Vine. That’s where the real fire is. I copped some tonight, and let me tell you, it’s the truth.

While the Sixers and these D1 programs keep letting us down, the Philadelphia Catholic League? They holding it down. Night in, night out, these young boys are serving the best smoke in the city. Roman, Catholic, Devon Prep, Father Judge and St. Joseph’s Prep—they all got that high-end, Grade-A Kush. No laced-up, fake-ass product here. The gyms are packed, the lights are bright, and the smoke is pure. The PCL is keeping Philly hoops alive while the big boys keep dropping the ball.

So, if you’re a real hoophead looking for that fix, skip Wells Fargo and these college programs. Head to the Palestra on Sunday for Catholic League Championship. That’s where you’ll find the finest smoke this city has to offer. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

The Case for Stability at Hawk Hill

January 21, 2025 By in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , 2 Comments

PHILADELPHIA, PA – The rumblings are beginning to emerge. The fans and alums of St. Joseph’s University are publicly evaluating the future of its storied men’s basketball program. There is an intensifying discussion about whether or not SJU should fire head coach Billy Lange. This discussion deserves a nuanced examination. While Lange may not be the archetype of a transformative coach, he has demonstrated an ability to manage the unique challenges of a Philadelphia-based mid-major program in the modern era of college athletics. The more interesting question, then, from my perspective is not whether St. Joe’s could find a better coach but whether the university is prepared to risk finding a worse one.

The wins and losses under Lange’s tenure paint a picture of incremental progress over a six year span. Each season has brought modest improvement in the Hawks’ performance. However, as any Hawk fan will tell you, the improvements haven’t been dramatic enough to inspire unanimous confidence. St. Joe’s continues to face defeats against opponents it is expected to beat, such as this season’s home loss to Central Connecticut State and other home losses to Princeton and Charleston. Lange has delivered expected victories in so-called “buy games” against teams like Coppin State and Delaware State—games that keep the program’s record somewhat respectable.

It seems fair to say that Coach Lange’s value to SJU extends well beyond the traditional win-loss column. In the age of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals and the transfer portal, the ability to recruit and retain talent is paramount. Lange has proven adept at navigating this landscape. Senior Eric Reynolds, junior Rasheer Fleming, and sophomore Xzayvier Brown—all players with significant market value—remain at St. Joe’s despite the lure of potentially lucrative opportunities elsewhere. It’s reasonable to assume that each of these players could command between $300,000 and $600,000 in NIL compensation if they entered the transfer portal. That they’ve chosen to stay suggests that Lange has fostered a program that values their development and loyalty.

That has value… It seems the Saint Joseph’s Athletic Department recognizes and appreciates that value. They definitely appreciate it more than SJU fans and alums focused intently on wins and losses.

Beyond individual player retention, Lange’s connections with key talent pipelines have been a boon for the program. Relationships with organizations like Team Takeover in Washington, D.C./DMV (Cam Brown, Erik Reynolds) , K-Low Elite (Xzayvier Brown, Derk Simpson) in Philadelphia, and Camden High School (Rasheer Fleming, Dasear Haskins) in New Jersey enhance St. Joe’s ability to recruit top-tier talent. These connections, cultivated over the past six years, provide an edge in a highly competitive market and would take significant time for a new coach to replicate.

The competitive landscape of the Atlantic 10 Conference further complicates the picture. Programs like Virginia Commonwealth University are beginning to implement revenue-sharing initiatives, with VCU reportedly committing $5 million to student-athletes starting in 2025. This raises the stakes for programs like St. Joe’s, which operate with significantly smaller budgets and a more limited pool of donors supporting their NIL efforts. In this context, Lange’s ability to retain talent and compete regionally with schools like Villanova, Temple, La Salle and Drexel is all the more impressive.

For a mid-major program like St. Joe’s, these external factors weigh heavily in evaluating a coach’s performance. While it’s tempting for fans to focus solely on A10 wins and losses, St. Joseph’s administrators seems to place significant value on external factors. By any reasonable measure, Billy Lange has held his own recruiting within constraints that make it challenging to compete with larger programs. The Hawks’ budget is dwarfed by those of regional and conference competitors, and the program relies on a smaller, more intimate base of donors and fans. In this shifting environment, stability and strategic leadership will likely outweigh the allure of a fresh start with another coach churned out by a national search.

Critics of Lange’s tenure are quick to point to the team’s offensive struggles, particularly when their three-point shooting falters. These concerns are valid, and the program’s inability to consistently generate offense has been a recurring issue. Yet, firing Lange in hopes of finding a quick fix through a “national search” led by an outside firm is far from a guaranteed solution. 

SJU could whiff… Easily could whiff… You know they could whiff…

The unique challenges of recruiting and competing in Philadelphia and the A10 require a coach with a deep understanding of the program’s identity and limitations. By keeping it in the family, St. Joseph’s has always had that knowledge within the program. Since assuming the helm, Billy Lange has effectively demonstrated that understanding.

He has obvious shortcomings… Lange has not demonstrated an ability to consistently coach his team to more college basketball victories than losses.

That’s a problem.

For that, some want SJU to fire Billy and move on. I’m just saying it’s more complex than just wins and losses for Jill Bodensteiner and President Cheryl A. McConnell.

St. Joseph’s is at a critical juncture. Lange’s tenure has been far from perfect, but he has demonstrated an ability to navigate the complexities of modern college basketball. 

No small feat…

The Hawks’ progress in the won/loss columns may be slow, but it is progress nonetheless. Replacing Lange risks disrupting the stability and relationships he has built, with no guarantee of improvement. For a program like St. Joe’s, where every decision must be calculated and deliberate, continuity may be the best path forward.

It should be noted that Saint Joseph’s could easily FUCK AROUND AND FIND OUT shit could get a lot worse. 

In the end, the calculus isn’t just about finding a better coach. It’s about ensuring that the program can thrive in an environment where resources are limited and the stakes are higher than ever. The St. Joe’s brass seem to recognize the value Lange brings.

They know… I know… You know… We all know… Lange has to win more games.

To the dismay of those calling for his dismissal, SJU will likely determine that the risks of change outweigh the potential rewards.

This Ain’t For You: A Promise Betrayed

January 14, 2025 By in Uncategorized Tags: Leave a comment

PHILADELPHIA, PA – Let’s unpack this shameful shift that’s crept over the past decade or so in Philadelphia like a slow-moving fog, dampening the streets and smothering what little light we had left. Once upon a time, there was a sacred rule in Philly’s urban Black culture, a code etched into the concrete jungle’s foundations. The hustlers, pimps, and players respected the sanctity of youth with promise. Athletes, bookworms, and dreamers were a different breed—off-limits. These young men and women were seen as the ticket out, the hopes of the block incarnate, and even the coldest fuckin’ killer wouldn’t dare derail their trajectory.

Noah Scurry

Back then, you’d hear it in passing: “This ain’t for you.” It wasn’t a suggestion—it was a command, a line in the sand. It meant: You’re the light in this darkness, and I’m not about to drag you down into my abyss. Whether it was a drug deal going down, a burglary or a dice game heating up, the young athletes and scholars were shooed away. Their presence alone demanded respect, a reverence that was reciprocated with every step they took toward their dreams. That respect was love, even if it was a love born out of guilt and unspoken regret.

But that love? It’s gone now—evaporated like dew under a blazing, merciless sun. Today, the line between the court and the curb is blurred, and no one’s keeping the wolves at bay. It’s like no one cares anymore—not about the promise, not about the potential. The streets have grown colder, their inhabitants harder. And the result? Blood-soaked dreams and bullet-ridden futures.

Take Noah Scurry, a rising star at Fels High School. He had the kind of talent that made folks lean forward when he stepped on the court—a kid who could’ve had the world at his feet. But on his way to school, the streets claimed him, cut him down in a hail of senseless gunfire. A life that once brimmed with potential was reduced to a statistic, another name in the endless roll call of young Black boys and men killing each other. And this ain’t an isolated tragedy. This is Philadelphia, where the headlines scream of athletes shot on school grounds, their cleats and helmets no armor against the madness. Homes invaded, families shattered, the echoes of gunshots ricocheting through neighborhoods like a mournful refrain.

The question—where does it all end?—hangs in the air, heavy and unanswered. The love is gone. The sense of duty to protect our own has been replaced by a numb indifference, a lethal apathy. The gangsters and hustlers, once guardians in their own twisted way, have abdicated their roles. Instead of shielding the promising, they pull them down, dragging them into a vortex of violence and despair. There’s no “this ain’t for you” anymore, no safe passage for those who dare to dream beyond the confines of the block.

We don’t like us—that’s the brutal truth.

And until we confront this self-loathing, this internalized hatred that fuels the cycle of violence, the blood will continue to flow, and the light will continue to dim. Somewhere in the ruins of what once was, we need to find that love again—that fierce, protective love that says, “You’re worth saving.” Because without it, we’re lost.