PHILADELPHIA, PA – The transfer portal has redefined college basketball, bringing both challenges and opportunities for programs across the nation. For La Salle, the offseason loss of All-League guards Jhamir Brickus and Khalil Brantley to Villanova and Oklahoma State respectively seemed to leave a gaping hole in the backcourt. Yet, in a twist of fate, the portal also delivered a savior — Corey McKeithan.
Corey McKeithan, La Salle Explorers
After three seasons as a role player at Rider University, McKeithan has burst onto the scene with the La Salle Explorers, quickly establishing himself as one of the top players in the Atlantic 10 and Philadelphia Big 5. His latest performance on Saturday night against Temple underscored his meteoric rise.
McKeithan is a combo guard whose game is marked by a lethal capacity for scoring. He is averaging a team high 19 points per game this season. His off the dribble variety is elite—hesitation, rocker and crossover—excellent shiftiness and ability to burst through an open seam. He has demonstrated an ability to score from all three levels. As a result, he is a truly unpredictable defensive assignment in the half court. He is highly efficient in both isolation offense and the pick & roll for the Explorers.
Facing the Owls in a pivotal Big 5 matchup on Saturday afternoon, McKeithan delivered a career-best performance, scoring 28 points on 10-for-19 shooting. Beyond his scoring outburst, the junior guard added four assists without a single turnover, collected three rebounds, swatted a block, and picked up two steals. McKeithan’s all-around brilliance powered the Explorers to their sixth win in eight games this season and secured a spot in next Saturday’s Big 5 Classic championship game against St. Joseph’s.
Fran Dunphy, La Salle Head Coach
For La Salle head coach Fran Dunphy, McKeithan’s emergence couldn’t have come at a better time. “Corey has a confidence and swagger about him that’s infectious,” Dunphy said. “He’s elevated not just his game but the entire team’s energy. That’s what great players do.”
McKeithan’s transformation has been remarkable. At Rider, he spent much of his time playing off the ball, recording just 15 double-digit scoring games across three seasons. Now, as the primary playmaker for La Salle, McKeithan has embraced the responsibility, showcasing an assertiveness and flair that has turned him into a leader on and off the court.
McKeithan has a deep bag and he’s been digging deep into it…
Saturday’s win was another sign that Dunphy and his staff unearthed a gem in the transfer portal. McKeithan’s ability to step up in critical moments has given La Salle an edge, offsetting the departures of Brickus and Brantley while providing the Explorers with a centerpiece around whom the team can rally.
However, the road ahead is challenging. In the Big 5 Classic championship game, McKeithan will face one of the most formidable guard trios in college basketball: Erik Reynolds, Xzayvier Brown, and Derek Simpson of St. Joseph’s. The Hawks’ elite backcourt will undoubtedly test McKeithan’s mettle, providing a marquee showdown between rising stars and seasoned talent.
As La Salle continues its resurgence, McKeithan’s performance has not only revived the Explorers’ prospects but also solidified his place as one of the premier guards in the region. For La Salle fans, his emergence is a testament to the transformative power of belief, hard work, and the right opportunity.
Next Saturday, all eyes will be on Corey McKeithan, who has proven that sometimes, all it takes to shine is the right stage. The best Philly Guard, just might be the kid from Connecticut.
NEWARK, NJ – At the Prudential Center, in the “Brick City” of Newark, New Jersey, two basketball players at opposite ends of their collegiate journeys clashed in a contest that felt less like an ordinary November game and more like a referendum on talent, experience, and promise. Villanova’s Eric Dixon, a high skilled seasoned veteran in his sixth year, delivered a performance for the ages, scoring a career-high 38 points. Maryland’s Derik Queen, a freshman sensation, countered with an all-around masterpiece—22 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists. In the end, Queen’s Terrapins outlasted Dixon’s Wildcats, securing a hard-fought victory that underscored the growing importance of versatility and team cohesion in modern basketball.
Derik Queen
This game was not just a matchup of two supremely skilled big men but a clash of basketball philosophies. Dixon, a classic Villanova player, is the epitome of what college basketball excellence looks like: disciplined, fundamentally sound, and relentless. His offensive exhibition was a showcase of everything a great college player can be. Whether it was sinking deep NBA-range threes, executing textbook post moves, or blowing by defenders with cunning hesitation dribbles, Dixon seemed unstoppable. He played like a man on a mission, determined to will his team to victory by sheer force of will and skill.
But basketball is rarely a solo endeavor. As Dixon poured in points, Maryland, guided by the precocious Derik Queen, slowly dismantled Villanova’s lead through the synergy of youth, athleticism, and strategic adaptability. Queen’s game was the antithesis of Dixon’s solo heroics. It was symphonic, blending scoring, rebounding, and playmaking into a performance that elevated his entire team. Every time Villanova tried to stretch their advantage, Queen would respond—whether with a slick assist to a cutting teammate, a put-back on the offensive glass, or a soft floater in the lane.
Queen represents the modern big man, a player as comfortable orchestrating an offense from the high post as he is battling in the trenches. His court vision and basketball IQ belied his youth, as he repeatedly found open teammates and exposed Villanova’s defensive lapses. Unlike Dixon, whose scoring was electric but often solitary, Queen’s contributions were woven into Maryland’s collective effort.
Eric Dixon
What makes this matchup fascinating is how it juxtaposes the present and the future of basketball. Dixon is a testament to the value of experience. His five years at Villanova have honed his game to a fine edge, and he plays with a poise and maturity that can only come from time. His mastery of three-level scoring is a reminder that college basketball still has a place for specialists, players who excel in specific roles and who, on their day, can single-handedly carry a team.
Queen, on the other hand, embodies the promise of what basketball can be. At just 18 years old, he is already a complete player. His versatility, unselfishness, and ability to impact the game in multiple ways make him a tantalizing prospect. Queen doesn’t just play basketball; he orchestrates it. He sees the game in layers, understanding not just his role but the roles of everyone around him.
And yet, for all their differences, there is a common thread between Dixon and Queen—a commitment to excellence and an understanding of what it means to lead. Dixon led by example, with his jaw-dropping scoring display reminding everyone why he is one of the best players in college basketball. Queen led through inclusion, making his teammates better and showing why he will one day be one of the best players in the game, period.
Maryland’s victory was a statement win, but it was also a reminder that basketball is a game of moments. On this night, Queen’s all-around brilliance and Maryland’s balanced attack prevailed. But Dixon’s performance will linger in memory, a dazzling exhibition of what a great college basketball player looks like at the peak of their powers.
The season is young, and both players have much to prove. For Dixon, the challenge will be carrying Villanova through the rigors of the Big East and beyond, where his experience and scoring will be indispensable. For Queen, the journey is just beginning, and his growth will be as much about navigating the spotlight as it is about refining his game.
In Newark, the veteran and the rookie gave us a glimpse of basketball’s past, present, and future. Dixon was magnificent, Queen was transformative, and the game was unforgettable. This was more than a matchup—it was a passing of the torch. And while Dixon may be the better player today, Queen’s time is coming. The beauty of basketball is that it allows us to marvel at both.
PHILADELPHIA, PA: The journey from high school basketball to high major college hoops is a steep climb fraught with challenges that fans, particularly those entrenched in the local Philadelphia and Camden basketball communities, often fail to understand. The expectations placed on young players—mere teenagers stepping onto the brightest of stages—are not only unreasonable but often cruelly uninformed.
Quade Green
Plainly stated, niggas have no fuckin idea what they are talkin’ bout…
Freshmen entering high major programs are thrust into hypercompetitive environments where success is measured against near-impossible standards. They compete with older, stronger, and more experienced upperclassmen who have little incentive to step aside for an 18-year-old prodigy. The results, while often admirable in context, are ruthlessly critiqued.
Quade Green’s freshman season at Kentucky in 2017-2018 is a case study in this phenomenon. A five-star recruit and McDonald’s All-American, Green arrived in Lexington with immense fanfare. Kentucky, coached by the legendary John Calipari, was a perennial powerhouse, and Green joined a roster featuring seven future NBA players. As a freshman, Green averaged 9.3 points, 2.7 assists, and shot a respectable 37.6% from beyond the arc—all while competing in the cutthroat SEC conference. By any reasonable measure, this was highly successful freshman campaign in the mighty SEC conference. Kentucky went 26-11 that year and finished the year ranked 18th in the nation in the final Associated Press poll. Yet, in his hometown of Philadelphia, his performance was derided by armchair critics who declared his choice to attend Kentucky a mistake.
These critiques, fueled by local pride and a lack of understanding about the difficulty of transitioning to college basketball, are misguided. A player like Green, who carved out a significant role on one of the nation’s top teams as a freshman, was achieving success against the odds. But those odds are rarely considered by fans who see only carefully curated highlight reels and box scores.
Plainly stated, niggas have no fuckin idea what they are talkin’ bout…
The story is repeating itself with Jalil Bethea, a heralded Philadelphia recruit now at Miami. Through four games, Bethea has shown flashes of brilliance, averaging 7.8 points in just 12.3 minutes per game. Yet the grumblings have already started. Some question why a player of his talent isn’t starting or dominating. What they fail to grasp is the reality of high major basketball: Bethea is competing with veterans like Nijel Pack (14.7 points, 6.7 assists), a fifth-year senior, and Jalen Blackmon (14.0 points, 1.7 steals), another seasoned guard. These are players with years of college experience who know the system and the physical and mental demands of the game.
Jalil Bethea
In this context, the transition from high school to college basketball is more than a step up—it is a leap. Freshmen, even the most talented, are adjusting to faster-paced games, more complex schemes, and physically mature opponents. High school dominance against inferior competition like “Collingdale Catholic” or “Roast Pork Charter,” simply does not translate directly to the high major college level.
Additionally, high major basketball rosters are stocked with talent. Freshmen are not handed minutes; they earn them. Coaches at programs like Kentucky, Miami, and Duke are tasked not with developing individual players in isolation but with building cohesive units that can contend for national championships. This often means limiting the roles of freshmen while leaning on upperclassmen who can deliver consistent results.
The problem lies partly in how young players are marketed. Highlight tapes, social media buzz, and grassroots hype build unrealistic expectations. A player dropping 40 points in a high school game might dazzle fans, but the competition level is rarely considered. This leads to a false narrative that high school stars can seamlessly dominate at the collegiate level. When they don’t, fans often blame the player, the coach, or even the program, without acknowledging the broader context.
The consequences of these unreasonable expectations can be damaging. The pressure to live up to hype can erode a player’s confidence. The constant scrutiny can impact mental health, and the pervasive narrative that a player “chose the wrong school” can sow doubt and create tension within a team.
Muthafuckas need to shut the fuck up and let it play out…
High major basketball is not a fairytale; it’s a crucible. Upperclassmen who have spent years developing their skills and bodies do not defer to 18-year-olds, no matter how talented. Coaches prioritize winning over everything else, which often means favoring experience over potential.
For players like Green and Bethea, the freshman year is rarely about stardom—it’s about survival and growth. By the time these players become sophomores or juniors, they often evolve into key contributors, but that progression is ignored by fans who judge them prematurely.
If we are to fairly evaluate young players, we must adjust our expectations. Freshmen should not be seen as saviors but as students of the game, learning and adapting to an environment more challenging than most fans can imagine. Instead of demanding instant results, we should celebrate their resilience, their flashes of potential, and their determination to succeed in the face of daunting odds.
Quade Green’s journey shows that even a “successful” freshman season is not immune to misplaced criticism. Jalil Bethea’s story is still unfolding, but one hopes that he, like Green, has the fortitude to rise above the noise. Fans and critics alike must recognize the difficulty of the transition and the strength it takes to endure. Only then can we truly appreciate the young athletes who dare to take on the challenge of high major college basketball.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – In the hallowed halls of Georgetown basketball lore, a tradition of transcendent big men looms large: Patrick Ewing, Alonzo Mourning, Dikembe Mutombo, Greg Monroe, Othella Harrington, and Roy Hibbert. To that lineage, the Hoyas now add a new name—Thomas Sorber. The freshman center from Philadelphia, already making waves with averages of 19 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks through his first three collegiate games, is more than just a promising player; he represents the program’s clearest path back to national prominence.
Thomas Sorber, Georgtown Center
At 6-foot-9 and 250 pounds, Sorber blends physicality and finesse in a way that recalls the greats of Georgetown’s storied past. His high school accolades are substantial: as a senior at Archbishop Ryan, he averaged an imposing double-double with 18.9 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 4.8 blocks per game. On the Nike EYBL circuit, he showcased his versatility for Team Final, displaying the kind of court awareness and soft touch that have made him a nightmare matchup for opposing bigs. But Sorber’s potential extends far beyond his statistics.
Under the tutelage of new head coach Ed Cooley, Georgetown basketball is undergoing a seismic shift. Cooley, known for his success at Providence, has a proven track record of rebuilding programs and instilling a winning culture. Sorber, a cornerstone recruit ranked No. 50 nationally in the Class of 2024, is the perfect player to anchor Cooley’s ambitious vision. Together, they aim to revive a program that has been mired in mediocrity since its last NCAA Tournament victory in 2015.
The Heir Apparent
Georgetown’s identity has always been synonymous with dominant post players. From Ewing’s national championship in 1984 to Hibbert’s leadership during the Hoyas’ 2007 Final Four run, the big man has been a symbol of both power and pride. Sorber’s presence rekindles that legacy. His polished footwork, ability to control the paint, and burgeoning outside shot make him a modern adaptation of Georgetown’s traditional mold.
But Sorber’s value extends beyond his individual skill set. As Nate Hodge, his AAU coach, astutely observed, Sorber’s combination of size, skill, and feel for the game could make him “something really special” as he continues to refine his conditioning and shooting range. Those are precisely the attributes Georgetown needs to reestablish itself as a force in the Big East and beyond.
Ed Cooley, Georgetown Head Coach
A New Era of Leadership
The importance of Cooley’s leadership cannot be overstated. Georgetown’s previous era, led by Patrick Ewing, was defined by nostalgic optimism that quickly soured into disarray. Now, with Cooley at the helm, the Hoyas have a tactician who excels at player development and cultivating team chemistry. Sorber, described by his high school coach Joe Zeglinski as “unselfish” and “a coachable kid,” embodies the type of player who will thrive under Cooley’s system.
Off the court, Sorber has already earned admiration for his humility and respectfulness—a foundation that will serve him well as he becomes the face of a rebuilding program. His teammates love playing with him, a testament to his leadership and character.
The Road Ahead
For Georgetown, Sorber represents more than just hope; he is a reminder of what the program can be at its best. The Hoyas’ return to relevance won’t happen overnight, but the early signs are promising. Sorber’s ability to impact both ends of the floor, combined with Cooley’s strategic vision, offers Georgetown fans something they haven’t had in years: belief.
The path forward will be challenging. The Big East remains one of the toughest conferences in college basketball, and the Hoyas must contend with powerhouses like UConn and Marquette. But with Sorber anchoring the post and Cooley steering the ship, Georgetown has a chance to reclaim its place among the nation’s elite.
For now, the echoes of the past reverberate in the present, as Thomas Sorber steps onto the court at Capital One Arena. His presence is a declaration: Georgetown basketball is back, and its future starts now.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – If ever there were a game of consequence for two struggling programs, Tuesday’s Holy War Pillowfight between St. Joseph’s and Villanova is it. Not for the lore, the drama, or the fierce rivalry—this time, it’s about the potential future of two head coaches who’ve found themselves under intensifying scrutiny. St. Joseph’s Billy Lange and Villanova’s Kyle Neptune are on alarmingly shaky ground, with the outcome of this clash potentially determining their fates. And yes, to the fans, it’s a big game—albeit for all the wrong reasons.
The alums, boosters and fans have had enough of this shit…
Kyle Neptune, Villanova Head Coach
Imagine a WWE-style steel cage match between Lange and Neptune with the defeated coach forced to turn in his company car, office keys and bid farewell to his team after the final buzzer. It’s the kind of spectacle that perhaps only wrestling fans could appreciate, yet one that feels uncomfortably close to the current reality for both Lange and Neptune. For the respective fan bases, frustration has given way to calls for change, and patience has long run out. Both fan bases have endured too much for too long.
Lange’s record at St. Joseph’s, a tepid 60-92 (.395) since his hiring in 2019, has turned a proud program into a perennial disappointment. The Hawk faithful yearn for a return to the NCAA tournament. Many express deep skepticism regarding the current coaching staff. The St. Joseph’s message board is rife with calls for Lange’s termination. Things are even worse at Villanova. Neptune, though in his third year, has marginally fared better than Lange with a 37-34 (.521) record. However, he was handed the keys to a Ferrari and it feels like it’s been in the shop since he took over. When introduced at home games, his name is met with full throated Philly boos usually reserved for visiting opponents. For two programs that once routinely inspired confidence, their leaders appear to be hanging by the thinnest of threads, and this season’s start—punctuated by jarring losses in “buy games”—hasn’t helped.
Billy Lange, St. Joseph’s Head Coach
The buy game, a time-honored tradition, serves as a revenue stream for small programs and a quick win for larger ones. Schools like St. Joseph’s and Villanova bring in lesser-known “low major” teams, offering a hefty check, sometimes upwards of $100,000, with the tacit understanding that the visiting team will go home defeated. It’s a system that usually allows for the high-major program to pad its win column while the small school collects its payday.
But that unspoken agreement has been unceremoniously disrupted in Philly. St. Joseph’s invited Central Connecticut State for what was expected to be a routine win at 54th and City Avenue. Instead, the visitor walked away with a victory—and a paycheck. Earlier in the week, Columbia arrived at Finneran Pavillion on the Main Line, handed the Wildcats a stinging defeat, took their check, and headed back up I-95 to Manhattan. What should have been easy victories have turned into humiliating losses, pushing the fan bases to the brink.
And they are fed up. Alumni, supporters, and local fans aren’t willing to watch their schools play the role of gracious hosts handing out both checks and victories to supposedly inferior opponents. This shift from reverence to restlessness is palpable across both programs’ communities. For Lange and Neptune, these losses are not just isolated setbacks but the latest entries in a long list of grievances.
For both coaches, Tuesday’s game is likely to carry more weight than most mid-November matchups. It’s a crossroads: Lose, and they will find themselves with a diminishing number of believers. Crawl out of the steel cage with a win, and perhaps they’ll buy some time. But make no mistake, the scales have tipped. Fans are no longer willing to accept mediocrity from programs that once consistently delivered excellence.
Tuesday’s Holy War Pillowfight will be a spectacle—a big game, indeed, but not for the thrill of victory. For the fans of St. Joseph’s and Villanova, it’s about accountability, about honor, and, perhaps, about the possibility of starting anew.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Villanova University’s men’s basketball program, long the gold standard of success and integrity, now stands at a critical juncture. Once the envy of collegiate hoops, the Wildcats under Jay Wright evolved from an admired East Coast program to a permanent resident among the sport’s “blue bloods.” In his two decades as head coach, Wright led Villanova to six Big East titles, four Final Fours, and a pair of national championships, solidifying the Wildcats’ place alongside the likes of Duke, Kentucky, North Carolina and Kansas.
But Jay Wright’s abrupt departure in 2022 created a seismic shift on the Main Line. Wright had led an undermanned Villanova squad to the Final Four in his final season, only to vanish stage left, much to the surprise and disappointment of the Wildcat faithful. In a swift succession plan, Villanova’s leadership tapped former assistant Kyle Neptune to inherit the program — a coach respected for his Villanova pedigree but still untested at the program’s elite level. There was no search firm involvement, no long drawn out series of interviews with high profile national candidates. The president, the athletic director and, of course, Wright quickly anointed Kyle Neptune as heir to the Villanova throne.
North Philly’s Wooga Poplar
In a matter of days, the Villanova brass handed Neptune the keys to the Lexus.
The move, while somewhat surprising, made sense on many levels. Neptune was no stranger to the Main Line. He spent eight years as an assistant on Wright’s staff with the Wildcats — he was on the sideline when Kris Jenkins knocked in his NCAA championship-winning 3-pointer in 2016. He left Philadelphia for the Bronx in March 2021 after being hired to coach Fordham.
Neptune, took over as Fordham’s coach after the Rams finished an abysmal 2-12 in the pandemic-shortened 2020-21 season. In his lone season at Rose Hill Gymnasium, Neptune impressed, leading Fordham to a 16-16 record. This represented a 14-win improvement between the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons and the biggest single-season jump in program history.
After just one season in the Bronx, leading a perennially mediocre Fordham program, Wright tossed the keys to his protege. While he hasn’t “crashed the car,” alums and fans are definitely tired of Neptune driving over the rumble strips. This noise is both unfamiliar and undesirable to Main Line hoopheads. One can only assume that the sound inside the vehicle is just as intolerable. Nonetheless, it serves as a warning to a Neptune and his staff that they have been veering off the roadway.
This stakes could not higher for Neptune. He succeeded Wright on the heels of a Final Four appearance and is just 35-33 over the past two seasons. The Villanova program has dropped from perennial national championship contender to one that has been knocked out of the NIT in the first round the last two seasons. Villanova Athletic director Mark Jackson gave Neptune a strong vote of confidence at the end of last season and subsequently left for Northwestern and the Big 10. At some point during the basketball season, Neptune will get a new boss who will surely notice the fully loaded S-Class Mercedes Benz parked outside Harry A. Gampel Pavilion in Storrs, Connecticut.
A Proving Ground for Neptune
For Neptune, this season is more than just a chance to return to the NCAA tournament after a two-year absence. It’s an opportunity to affirm that Villanova’s reputation as a national powerhouse isn’t just a Jay Wright-era artifact. This is no simple task: He inherits both the pressure of a devoted fan base and the expectation to maintain a “Villanova brand” known for discipline, ball movement, and defensive intensity. Yet, for a program accustomed to national title contention, Neptune’s middling 35-33 record over two seasons is hardly a confidence booster. So… Exactly how will the staff return the Wildcats to prominence?
Graduate Student, Eric Dixon
Philly Area Ballers on the Main Line
Neptune has leaned heavily on players from the Philadelphia region to bring Villanova back to prominence. Leading the charge is graduate student Eric Dixon. This Wildcat squad is Dixon’s team. Hailing from Abington, Dixon is extremely strong for a player at the college level and has often just powered to the basket during his illustrious college career. While he is undersized for the center position, Dixon uses his body very well, has great hands and good post footwork. He able to hold position on the blocks and back down his defender. On most nights, Dixon will be a serious mismatch for defenses in the low post. He posses a soft shooting touch around the basket uses a number of spins and drop steps to score However, it should be noted that he has expanded his offensive repertoire. Despite playing center, he was also tied for second on the team in three-point range attempts, knocking down just under 35% of his nearly five tries per game. He runs the floor well for someone his size. Dixons plays good positional defense due to his above average lateral quickness and wide body. The Wildcats need Dixon to play at an All-American level if they are going to make the NCAA tournament after a two year hiatus.
Alongside Dixon is Jordan Longino, a Germantown Academy product who has shown glimpses of promise, albeit interrupted by injury. Averaging nearly 22 minutes per game last season, Longino’s shot and intensity on both ends of the floor could make him a consistent contributor — if he can stay healthy. The third key local returnee is Nnanna Njoku, whose power forward play and physical presence offer crucial support, though he, too, will need to avoid injuries to fully contribute.
New Faces, High Hopes
Coatesville’s Jhamir Brickus
Surrounding the local returnees will be some key additions from the transfer portal. Manning the point guard position for Neptune will be Jhamir Brickus. A Coatesville High School legend, Brickus is using his COVID bonus season of eligibility, after transferring from La Salle. Brickus played four seasons with the Explorers, and he had an outstanding campaign as a senior. He averaged 13.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and just over a steal per game while hitting 40% of his threes. Brickus is a rock-solid choice to run the Villanova offense. He displays great court vision and makes his teammates better. He is an experienced, savvy, clutch vet who has seen it all. Brickus drives the lane like an NFL fullback, and either finishes strongly or finds the open man. Although relatively short in stature, he plays much bigger than his size on offense. He has been known to effectively post up bigger guards and forwards. Neptune has given him a chance to put his skills on full display before a national audience in Big East competition.
A Philadelphia Public League legend will play on the wing for Neptune. Wooga Poplar, hailing from North Philly, is blessed with truly elite level explosiveness. Poplar was was one of the most intriguing prospects in college basketball last season and considered making the leap to the NBA this past off season. When he is healthy, Poplar displays electric speed and quickness, and is certainly one of the best leapers in college basketball. At MCS High School and subsequently the University of Miami, Poplar played an exciting and fairly flashy style. He is a highlight reel dunker in the transition game. He has a sweet looking jump shot, and his range extends past the NBA 3-point line. Poplar is able to hit shots off of screens or off the dribble, making him a guy who must be accounted for no matter what on the perimeter. He has more than adequate ball-handling ability and will be a tough cover due to his athleticism and shooting skills. He has proven that he can slash when crowded or stop and pop if the defender gives him space. Poplar gets great elevation and has a high release giving him a great ability to get shots off. He has the ability to put up points in bunches. A late blooming prospect, who wasn’t a highly touted recruit until late in his high school career, Poplar could really just be scratching the surface of his true ability.
Fresno State transfer Enoch Boakye
They have added Enoch Boakye to play the center position while Dixon moves to power forward full-time. Boakye is an athletic forward with superior shot blocking and rebounding tools. He brings an evolving offensive game that includes the ability to finish lobs near the rim. last season with Fresno State. He gave the Bulldogs just short of 8 points and 8 rebounds a game. He brings much needed length and explosiveness to the Wildcat front court.
Neptune did not go far for his final portal acquisition. He successfully recruited Tyler Perkins (6’4”, 205 lb, Lorton, Virginia), who was one of the best player in the Ivy League as a freshman at Penn last season. For the season, he averaged 13.7 points and 5.3 rebounds per game and hit nearly 35% of his three-pointers. But, maybe… Just maybe, he’s at Villanova because he for dropped 22 points, six rebounds, and a block on the Wildcats in a 76-72 Quakers victory at The Palestra last season.
Penn transfer Tyler Perkins
The Wildcats have also brought in in four freshmen, including two top 100 prospects. Matthew Hodge (6’8”, 200 lb, Belmar, New Jersey) is #70 in the 247 Sports Composite, while Josiah Moseley (6’6”, 185 lb, Round Rock, Texas) ranked #82. They also add redshirt freshman Kris Parker (6’9”, 195 lb, Tallahassee, Florida) on a transfer from Alabama where he did not play after ranking #99 in the 2023 247 Composite and Jordann Dumont, a versatile and athletic 6’8″ forward.
Neptune’s recruitment has been solid, but the question remains whether he and his staff can coach this talented roster to the program’s accustomed heights. Simply stated, can this staff coach these players to a level that results in deep runs in the NCAA tournament?
A Season on the Brink
The Wildcats’ early season schedule — including tests against St. Joseph’s, Virginia, and Maryland — offers Neptune a chance to prove that his Wildcats can hang with the best. But for the alumni and fans accustomed to the stability and success of Wright’s reign, patience may be wearing thin. The next few months will reveal if Neptune is indeed steering Villanova back on course or if, in the eyes of the Villanova faithful, the Wildcats’ time as a college basketball “blue blood” is starting to fade.
We are about to find out Neptune can avoid the rumble strips early this year.
Philadelphia, PA – On Hawk Hill, where the legacy of Saint Joseph’s University basketball has endured for 116 years, hope springs eternal. Embracing the team’s motto, “The Hawk Will Never Die,” the Hawks enter the 2024-25 season with a roster that boasts both depth and talent, putting them in position to compete at the top of the Atlantic 10 Conference. With head coach Billy Lange improving his team’s winning percentage in each of his five seasons, optimism among fans and alumni is high.
Head Coach, Billy Lange
Under Lange’s guidance, St. Joseph’s has navigated a transformed collegiate landscape, one where NIL and the transfer portal have reshaped the stakes and players are freer than ever to shape their paths. Lange’s ability to build a cohesive, talented squad in this modern climate has kept the Hawks competitive, highlighted by their 21-14 record last season. This year’s lineup continues that trajectory, with a guard trio among the finest in the nation and an athletic, promising frontcourt.
The Backcourt: An Elite Trio
Leading the charge is senior guard Erik Reynolds, who sits just 478 points shy of Jameer Nelson’s all-time scoring record. Known for his fluid shot creation, Reynolds can score from all three levels, whether it’s scoops and floaters inside or deft pull-ups in the midrange. His balance of patience and quickness out of ball screens makes him a persistent offensive threat. With sophomore guard Xzayvier Brown handling point duties, Reynolds has grown more versatile, showing strong instincts as an off-ball scorer and becoming one of the most consistent offensive forces in the Atlantic 10.
Erik Reynolds, Senior Guard
Brown, a Philadelphia native and son of Associate Head Coach Justin Scott, has quickly established himself as one of the top point guards in the conference. He brings a steady hand, exceptional footwork, and a knack for breaking down defenses with smooth crossovers and hesitation moves. Tough and fearless, Brown’s body control enables him to score in traffic or kick the ball to open teammates on the perimeter. Perhaps, his most impressive attribute is the fact that he has big balls… Brown is not afraid of the big moment and will put the team on his shoulders when the offense stagnates. This season, he’ll look to cement his role as a leader capable of taking over when the game is on the line.
Xzayvier Brown, Sophomore Guard
Rounding out this talented backcourt is junior transfer Derek Simpson from Rutgers. A a prototypical mid-high major combo guard in that he does a bit of everything despite having the size of a point guard. He is a supremely confident bucket-getter with three-level scoring capabilities. Although he is most effective getting all the way to the basket and pulling up for mid-range jumpers. He can make an occasional three, but is much more efficient attacking he basket and in transition. Simpson is agile and crafty with the ball in his hands and brings two years of experience playing in the highly physical Big 10 Conference. Simpson thrives in both isolation and pick-and-roll situations. He is highly intelligent, and selfless high-energy player on offense and defense. He makes winning plays. This was a tremendous free agent acquisition for Lange and his staff.
Derek Simpson, Junior Guard
The Frontcourt: Emerging Talent and Physicality
While the guards may steal the spotlight, the front court play will largely determine how deep this version of Hawks can go in March. The time has come for Rasheer Fleming to become a household name. The junior power forward from Camden High, is solidly built and strong. He just has to put it all together in game situations. Fleming is long and has excellent instincts on the offensive end. He is very young (just turned 20) for a college junior playing D1 college basketball. Fleming has natural strength and the type of body that could withstand the physicality of NBA level play. He has already attracted the attention NBA scouts. He has broad shoulders and a wide base yet still has good agility and is fluid on his feet. On the offensive end, Fleming can do a bit of everything. He can score in the post, using his strength to bully opponents. He is particularly adept at getting to his jump hook over his left shoulder, which he makes at a very high rate. He is also an excellent leaper, allowing him to make plays above the rim. He has steadily improved his mid-range game. He shot a decent 32.4% from 3-point range in his sophomore season.
Justice Ajogbor, Graduate Student Center and Rasheer Fleming, Junior Forward
Sophomore Anthony Finkley, another key forward, is set to play the ultimate “glue guy” role this season. Finkley’s versatility and strong basketball IQ make him a valuable presence on the court, especially in passing and rebounding. Known for his unselfish play, Finkley is a key piece in making those around him better, and his intensity adds a gritty edge to the frontcourt.
Sophomore Shawn Simmons brings outstanding athleticism and size to the wing. Known for his quickness and explosiveness, Simmons’ speed makes him a reliable transition player and a potential defensive stalwart. With time and experience, Simmons could become a premier perimeter defender, contesting shots and creating havoc in passing lanes.
Justin Scott, Associate Head Coach and Steven Solano, Freshman Center
Redshirt freshman Dasear Haskins is a promising shot-maker with prototypical size and a smooth three-point shot. At 6’8”, Haskins has the physical tools to stretch defenses and create mismatches. The addition of Harvard graduate Justice Ajogbor in the center role adds experience and defense to the lineup, complemented by seven-footer Steve Solano, a former four-star recruit known for his low-post game and international experience.
Dasear Haskins, Redshirt Freshman Wing
Newcomers and Outlook
New faces like guard Khaafiq Myers and forwards Kevin Kearney and Mekai Johnson round out the roster. Myers is, yet another, quintessential Philly guard, to arrive on Hawk Hill. Prior to a leg injury that cut his senior season short, Myers was dominating the Philadelphia Catholic League and appeared to be a strong contender for MVP. An exceedingly quick player, he regularly forces opposing guards to pick up their dribble in the middle of the court. Myers takes tremendous pride in guarding the best opposing guard.
Khaafiq Myers, Freshman Guard
This roster is built to compete with any team in the A10 and the mid-Atlantic region. On paper, the Hawks may be better than regional high majors like Villanova (Big East), Seton Hall (Big East), Georgetown (Big East), Rutgers (Big 10), Penn State (Big 10) and Temple (American).
Coach Lange and his assistants Justin Scott, Dwayne Jones, Thomas Boyle and the rest of the staff have proven they can build a highly competitive roster.
The question becomes: Can the staff coach these guys to wins on the road in the A10, in the A10 tournament and in the NCAA tournament?
We still do not know the answer… But we ’bout to find out!
PHILADELPHIA, PA – In just his second season as head coach, Brandon Williams has transformed the basketball program at Penn Charter into a national destination for high major college coaches. The once overlooked campus in East Falls is now at the center of the basketball map, luring recruiters and scouts to witness a remarkable assembly of talent. Williams’s efforts have vaulted the Quakers into the ranks of the elite in Philadelphia high school basketball, making it impossible to ignore their rise.
Earlier tonight, Penn Charter’s senior point guard Jake West made headlines with his commitment to Northwestern University, securing a spot in the Big Ten under coach Chris Collins. West’s decision marks a significant moment for the program, but it’s just one in a series of high-profile commitments. His backcourt partner, Kai Shinholster, is also Big Ten-bound, set to play for the University of Minnesota. Meanwhile, the team’s versatile big man, Matt Gilhool, will head south to join the LSU Tigers in the powerhouse SEC, turning down a slew of high major offers.
These achievements on the recruiting front are not isolated incidents but rather part of a growing trend that began with Williams’s arrival. The new coach has reinvigorated a program that was long overshadowed by traditional Philadelphia juggernauts like Roman Catholic, Imhotep Charter, Neumann-Goretti, and Westtown. Now, the roads leading from private airports to the scenic Penn Charter campus are being traveled by top scouts from every corner of the nation, all in pursuit of the school’s newfound talent.
At the heart of Penn Charter’s surge is Williams’s ability to attract and develop top-tier players, a skill that has already paid dividends. The team’s future is exceptionally bright, with freshman guard Carter Smith being widely considered one of the top 25 prospects in the country. The buzz surrounding Smith alone is enough to keep college coaches flocking to the East Falls campus for years to come. His talent, combined with the recent commitments of West, Shinholster, and Gilhool, has cemented the Quakers’ status as a must-see program for high major recruiters.
Williams has instilled a new culture at Penn Charter—one marked by intense preparation, disciplined play, and a sense of ambition that extends beyond the boundaries of the school gym. The players have embraced this culture, with top prospects now seeking out Penn Charter rather than being sought after. The shift is indicative of a broader transformation: the Quakers are no longer content with being competitive; they aim to dominate. The talent level and coaching acumen now in place suggest that the team’s ambitions are more than realistic.
It’s time to include Penn Charter in conversations about the premier programs in the Greater Philadelphia area. For too long, the narrative has been dominated by names like Roman Catholic, Imhotep Charter, Neumann-Goretti, Camden, and Academy of the New Church. With Williams at the helm, the Quakers have earned their place in that elite group. In fact, the arrival of high-profile recruits and the presence of top college coaches at open gyms and games indicates that Penn Charter is no longer just striving to compete against these programs—it may be poised to surpass them.
The school’s transformation is a testament to Williams’s vision and the remarkable pace at which he has executed it. In less than two years, he has established Penn Charter not only as a contender for league and state titles but as a burgeoning national powerhouse. For a program that has long been in the shadow of local rivals, the view from the top is exhilarating, and it’s a view that Penn Charter’s players and fans can get used to.
Brandon Williams’s appointment as head coach has not only changed the trajectory of Penn Charter basketball but may have also rewritten the landscape of high school basketball in Philadelphia. As the season unfolds, and as more top-tier talents commit to the Quakers, the roads to East Falls will become even more well-worn. In Williams’s hands, Penn Charter has become a place where high school players can achieve their loftiest dreams, and college coaches can find the game-changing recruits they covet. The future is bright, and for the Quakers, the journey to the top has only just begun.
It’s that time of year again—high school basketball season is just around the corner, and players are transitioning from summer grassroots/AAU hoops to the scholastic stage.
Join us on October 5th and 6th for the highly anticipated 2024 Black Cager Fall Classic, an event featuring many of the top high school basketball programs on the East Coast. Over the years, the Fall Classic has become one of the nation’s premier pre-season scholastic basketball tournaments.
This year’s competition will take place at the state-of-the-art Executive Education Fieldhouse, located at 555 Union Boulevard in Allentown, PA. With over 60 teams from four states set to compete, this year’s Classic promises to deliver top-tier talent and intense matchups.
Several powerhouse teams will be featured, including Roman Catholic (PA), Westtown (PA), Camden (NJ), Roselle Catholic (NJ), Penn Charter (PA), Neumann-Goretti (PA), and Academy of the New Church (PA)—all programs that consistently rank among the top 50 teams in the nation. The prestigious Philadelphia Catholic League will also be well-represented with teams like Archbishop Ryan, Devon Prep, Father Judge, West Catholic, Conwell-Egan, and Lansdale Catholic, in addition to the already-mentioned Roman Catholic and Neumann-Goretti.
Suburban Philadelphia basketball powerhouses like Plymouth-Whitemarsh, Coatesville, Downingtown West, Abington, Chester Charter, and Cheltenham are also set to compete, while elite independent school programs such as Friends Select, Abington Friends, and Springside Chestnut Hill will add to the competitive field.
Representing the Philadelphia Public League are teams like Audenried, Lincoln, Carver E&S, Constitution, and Overbrook. Additionally, Berks and Lehigh Counties will send their top teams, including Executive Education (the host school), Allentown Central Catholic, Liberty, William Allen, Pocono Mountain East, La Academia, Notre Dame, East Stroudsburg, and Muhlenberg.
New Jersey will be well represented, too, with top programs like Camden, Roselle Catholic, Camden Eastside, St. Joseph’s Academy, St. Peter’s, Immaculate Conception, Elizabeth, Gill St. Bernard, Linden, Timber Creek, and Salem ready to battle it out. St. Mark’s, St. Elizabeth’s and Brandywine will hold it down for the first state, Delaware.
Black Cager Sports Founder, Delgreco Wilson, highlights the highly competitive nature of the event: “We strive to give these programs an opportunity to see how they stack up against the best. Fans come to see elite players and teams, and I think that’s what the Black Cager Fall Classic is all about,” Wilson said. “Watching college basketball teams like Kentucky, Villanova, Temple, Florida State, UCONN, and Maryland, and knowing that many of our players will be competing at that level next year, is really special. Jalen Duren (Detroit Pistons), Seth Lundy (Atlanta Hawks), Donta Scott (Golden State Warriors), Collin Gillespie (Phoenix Suns), and Carlton Carrington (Washington Wizards) are just a few of our alumni now playing in the NBA. So, we’ve brought in elite players and teams for years … I think we offer something truly unique. The idea of having future high-major college and NBA players running up and down Executive Education’s courts—it’s really exciting stuff.”
Allentown, PA – During the first annual Pre-Live Period Summer Classic,Delgreco Wilson, Executive Director of Black Cager Sports was thrilled to announce a significant partnership with Education Academy Charter School, bringing a series of high-profile basketball events to the newly unveiled Executive Fieldhouse. This state-of-the-art facility, built in collaboration with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), spans an impressive 28,000 square feet and is designed to host four basketball games simultaneously.
“We are very excited to host Black Cager Sport Events in our fieldhouse. They have demonstrated an ability to attract highly competitive high school programs to Allentown,” said Executive Education Academy Charter School CEO Robert Lysek. “Not only do Executive student-athletes benefit, but our facility is also used by many local and regional programs. We look forward to hosting several Black Cager events every year.”
Bob Lysek, Executive Education Charter School, CEO (l) and Executive supporter Pamela Tillett (r)
The Executive Fieldhouse is a premier multi-court facility featuring four brand-new regulation-size courts, each equipped with large, dedicated electronic scoreboards. The venue boasts a cutting-edge sound system, full wheelchair accessibility, and ample space for concessions. Additionally, the facility offers over 2,000 adjacent parking spaces, ensuring ease of access for spectators and participants alike.
Delgreco Wilson expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “We’ve hosted basketball events for more than a decade, and the Executive Fieldhouse is the finest multi-court facility in the mid-Atlantic region. The presence of two highly qualified athletic trainers provided by LVHN is a huge plus, as players and coaches can rest assured that sports-related injuries are appropriately treated right away.”
Jason Boggs, Director of Basketball Events, Black Cager Sports
The commitment from Black Cager Sports to host multiple events annually at the Executive Fieldhouse is set to elevate the local sports scene. “Bob Lysek and Ray Barbosa are very easy to work with. They want to provide young people with a clean, modern, and safe place to compete and gain exposure. Black Cager Sports shares the same goals. My partner, Jason Boggs, and I have decided to make this a long-term partnership,” Wilson added.
Gabe Hornberger ’25, Executive Academy wing receiving D1 interest from Patriot and Ivy Programs
This collaboration underscores Executive Education Academy Charter School’s dedication to enhancing athletic opportunities for its students and the broader community. The Executive Fieldhouse, with its cutting-edge amenities and strategic partnerships, is poised to become a central hub for competitive basketball in the region.
The Black Cager 