Scouting Report: Kashon Page Team: Whitman Park Tigers (Camden, NJ) Age: 9 Positions: Defensive End, Tight End, Running Back
Kashon Page, Whitman Park
Kashon Page is a dynamic, versatile athlete who excels on both sides of the ball. His ability to impact the game from multiple positions sets him apart as a standout performer on the youth football circuit.
Defensive Analysis
At defensive end, Kashon consistently wreaks havoc in the backfield. His explosive first step, coupled with excellent lateral agility, allows him to beat offensive linemen off the edge with ease. He has a natural instinct for tracking down ball carriers and frequently records tackles for loss. Kashon’s high motor and relentless pursuit make him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks, as evidenced by his impressive sack totals.
Kashon Page with BIG hit!
Offensive Analysis
On offense, Kashon’s versatility shines through. As a tight end, he demonstrates strong hands and an ability to create mismatches against smaller defenders. He excels in both blocking and route running, making him a reliable target for his quarterback. When lined up at running back, Kashon’s sprinter-level speed becomes a major asset. He has a rare blend of power and elusiveness, capable of breaking long runs and turning broken plays into game-changing moments.
Strengths
Athleticism: Combines speed, strength, and agility to dominate in multiple roles.
Football IQ: Shows an advanced understanding of the game for his age.
Versatility: Can play and excel in multiple positions on both sides of the ball.
Work Ethic: Demonstrates a relentless drive to improve, both during games and in practice.
Areas for Growth
Technical Development: As he matures, refining his technique, particularly in hand usage on defense and route running on offense, will elevate his game.
Physical Development: Continued growth and strength training will help him reach his full potential.
Outlook
As a proud Camden native, Kashon Page has his sights set on suiting up for Camden High in the future, a goal that seems well within reach given his current trajectory. With his natural talent, relentless work ethic, and love for the game, Kashon is poised to become one of the most highly recruited middle school prospects in the region. His playmaking ability and leadership on the field already make him a cornerstone of the Whitman Park Tigers, and his best football is still ahead of him.
Projection: High-impact middle school player and future star at Camden High. Keep an eye on Kashon as he continues to develop his game and establish himself as a premier talent in New Jersey youth football.
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.
I got a text from former Phil Martelli this afternoon. For the better part of two decades, Martelli and I have maintained an ongoing dialogue surrounding the future of what used to be considered amateur basketball in the United States. We both lament the fact that college, high school and AAU/grassroots basketball at the highest levels have crossed the rubicon and can no longer be consider purely amateur endeavors. The text consisted of a link to a movie trailer to a documentary, “THE SPOILS”, I had never heard of.
After watching the trailer, I understood exactly why Martelli sent me the link. He knew this was a film I had to see.
“THE SPOILS” is a groundbreaking and illuminating documentary that every basketball enthusiast, parent, and coach must watch. This remarkable film, which follows the esteemed Compton Magic AAU/grassroots program over a decade, offers an unparalleled and deeply insightful exploration into the transformation of youth basketball in America into a colossal business enterprise.
Directed by the visionary filmmaker Future, Mike Nicoll, “THE SPOILS” delves into the heart of the American basketball industrial complex, revealing the intricate and often shadowy financial systems that have taken root in AAU and grassroots basketball. Through the eyes of Etop Udo-Ema, the passionate Co-Founder and CEO of the Compton Magic, viewers are treated to an honest and compelling narrative that sheds light on the raw capitalism driving the sport.
The documentary’s unprecedented access to the inner workings of this financial behemoth is nothing short of extraordinary. Future masterfully unravels the various elements that contribute to the commercialization of youth basketball, providing a first-hand examination of how the industry identifies, anoints, and monetizes the next generation of superstars. The film’s candid portrayal of the relentless pursuit of “The Next LeBron” is both eye-opening and thought-provoking.
“THE SPOILS” is more than just a documentary; it is a vital resource for parents of talented high school basketball players. It offers a critical perspective on the summer circuits sponsored by major shoe companies like Adidas, Nike, Under Armour, and Puma. By highlighting the stakes, pressures, and opportunities within this high-stakes environment, the film equips parents with the knowledge they need to navigate their children’s journeys in the world of competitive basketball.
In conclusion, “THE SPOILS” is a masterclass in documentary filmmaking. It captivates, educates, and inspires, all while offering a sobering look at the commercialization of youth sports. This film is an absolute must-watch for anyone connected to the world of basketball, from aspiring players and their families to coaches and fans. “THE SPOILS” is a true cinematic triumph that will leave a lasting impact on its audience.
To watch this magnificent film click the link below.
We will track the “Boxscores” and update them weekly or biweekly to help fans in the Greater Philadelphia Region track and compare the performance of their favorite D1 college players.
October 9, 2023, Philadelphia, PA – Black Cager Sports is thrilled to announce the launch of the inaugural Black Cager Girls Fall Classic, an event that promises to be a game-changer for girls’ high school basketball in the Greater Philadelphia region. This exciting tournament will take place at the Universal Audenreid High School Gymnasium located at 3301 Tasker Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The event will feature some of the most promising young female basketball players in the nation.
Since its inception in 2016, Black Cager Fall Classic has been a prominent platform for showcasing the talents of boys high school basketball players, many of whom have gone on to achieve successful professional careers. Notable alumni include NCAA All-American point guard Collin Gillespie, Atlantic 10 Player of the Year Ace Baldwin, Kentucky Freshman DJ Wagner and Atlanta Hawks rookies Seth Lundy and Isaiah Wong. Now, founder Delgreco Wilson and the Black Cager Sports team are extending their commitment to the growth and development of young athletes by introducing the Girls Fall Classic.
“Five years ago, a high school player named Angel Reese told me that I was unfair and did not give the girls game adequate coverage. Angel was right… We are incredibly excited to bring the Black Cager Girls Fall Classic to Philadelphia,” said Wilson, founder of Black Cager Sports. “Our goal is to provide young female athletes with the same opportunities for exposure and growth that we’ve offered to boys’ high school basketball players over the years. We are confident that this event will become an annual highlight for the city, the state, and the entire mid-Atlantic region.”
The modern Universal Audenreid Athletic facilities, which will serve as the venue for the inaugural Girls Fall Classic, offer an ideal setting for this prestigious event. This tournament not only promises thrilling basketball action but also aims to bring significant economic benefits to the South Philadelphia community.
“It will be nice to showcase Universal Audenreid High School to the great talent not only in our city but throughout our state and the entire mid-Atlantic region,” Wilson continued. “This event will undoubtedly bring a lot of business and excitement to South Philadelphia, and it’s something we’re looking forward to on an annual basis.”
The mission of Black Cager Sports has always been to provide exposure for high school student-athletes while attracting regional and national college coaches to high school basketball events in the Greater Philadelphia region. By doing so, the organization aims to enhance economic development and promote the area as a sports destination. The Girls Fall Classic is the latest step in fulfilling this mission. Black Cager Sports has consistently delivered one of the nation’s premier pre-season high school basketball events. Over the years, more than 100 athletes who have participated in the event have gone on to compete at the high-major Division 1 level, a testament to the level of talent and competition showcased in these tournaments.
The inaugural Black Cager Girls Fall Classic promises to be an unforgettable event for athletes, fans, and the Philadelphia community as a whole. Stay tuned for further updates, including the announcement of participating teams and game schedules.
For media inquiries, please contact: Delgreco Wilson Black Cager Sports blackcager@gmail.com 856-366-0992
About Black Cager Sports: Black Cager Sports is a leading organization dedicated to elevating high school basketball talent and providing exposure for student-athletes. With a track record of fostering the development of premier players, Black Cager Sports has become a cornerstone in the high school basketball community.
About Universal Audenried High School: Universal Audenried Charter High School provides a comprehensive education experience for students in 9th-12th grade. Our educational program provides both the academics needed for college admissions and the skills training that prepare graduates for meaningful entry level employment. Students in Career and Technical Education academies can earn up to nine credits at the Community College of Philadelphia.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – August 22, 2023 – Black Cager Sports Media is excited to announce the highly anticipated return of the Black Cager Fall Classic, showcasing a prestigious lineup of national and international high school basketball teams. The event is scheduled to take place at William Allen High School and the East Side Youth Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania from October 7-9, 2023.
This year’s tournament boasts an impressive field of teams, featuring perennial contenders that consistently rank nationally. The participating schools include Archbishop Ryan (Philadelphia, PA), Immaculate Conception (Montclair, NJ), Gwynn Park (Brandywine, MD), Archbishop Wood (Philadelphia, PA), St. Frances Academy (Baltimore, MD), Brooklyn Collegiate (Brooklyn, NY), Canada Top Flight Academy (Ottawa, Ontario), and Neumann-Goretti (Philadelphia, PA). These powerhouse teams will converge in Allentown for a weekend of fierce competition and unparalleled talent
An astounding total of eighty teams will gather to compete in this year’s event, representing five states, the District of Columbia, and Canada. The Black Cager Fall Classic has historically held a prominent place in the national high school basketball calendar, and its return to Allentown, Pennsylvania marks a significant milestone. Over the course of eight years, the tournament has consistently showcased some of the nation’s most exceptional players. Alumni of the event include luminaries such as Collin Gillespie (Villanova/NBA), Ace Baldwin (VCU/Penn State), Donta Scott (Maryland), Hakim Hart (Maryland/Villanova), Eric Dixon (Villanova), Lucas Monroe (Pennsylvania/Drexel), Jalen Duren (Memphis/NBA), DJ Wagner (Kentucky), Lance Ware (Kentucky/Villanova), Hysier Miller (Temple), Ruben Rodriguez (Rider), Lynn Greer III (Saint Joseph’s), Zion Stanford (Temple), and Derek Simpson (Rutgers), many of whom have gone on to achieve success in college basketball and even the NBA.
This year’s Black Cager Fall Classic promises to be a spotlight for the emerging stars of tomorrow, providing an unparalleled platform for young talents to shine. For the past eight years, the event has played a pivotal role in shaping the path to college basketball success. Impressively, nearly eighty percent of Philadelphia-area players who secured Division 1 scholarships within this period have participated in at least one Fall Classic.
Mark your calendars for the Saturday, October 7th through Sunday, October 8th timeframe, as the Black Cager Fall Classic prepares to captivate basketball enthusiasts with exhilarating matchups and extraordinary talent on display. Team registration is already underway, and anticipation for the event is building as teams gear up to showcase their skills on this prestigious stage.
For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, and further information, please contact:
Media Contact:
Delgreco Wilson, Founder, Black Cager Sports blackcager@gmail.com 856-366-0992
Follow us on social media for updates and highlights: Instagram: @BlackCagerPress Threads: blackcagerpress Facebook: Black Cager Press
Black Cager Sports Media is a leading platform dedicated to promoting, covering, and celebrating basketball excellence at the high school level. Through events, media coverage, and community engagement, Black Cager Sports Media aims to foster growth and development among young athletes while providing a platform for their talents to shine.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – July 20, 2023 – In an era where grassroots and high school live periods have been overtaken by flashy, shoe company-sponsored summer events, the Rashid Bey Point Guard Camp stands out as a beacon of substance and dedication. Held at the Audenried HS gymnasium in the Grays Ferry section of South Philadelphia, this camp caters to 7th to 12th-grade boys and girls who are truly serious about improving their game. With an intense one-day format, the camp focuses on all aspects of guard play, ranging from mentality and leadership to ball handling, scoring, and more. Unlike the glitzy events, this camp prioritizes hard work and genuine skill development over superficial glamour.
Rashid Bey, 2-time Big 5 MVP
The rise of shoe company-sponsored summer events has brought a new level of spectacle to the world of youth basketball. With lavish facilities, extensive media coverage, and the presence of high-profile players and coaches, these events often resemble mini basketball festivals. Aspiring young players fly across the country, staying in luxurious hotels, and bask in the attention of college coaches, all while receiving eye-catching merchandise and the allure of potential scholarships. While these events undeniably offer valuable exposure for young athletes, they can sometimes overshadow the true essence of basketball development. The focus on results and the glamour surrounding these events may inadvertently overshadow the core principles of hard work, dedication, and genuine improvement.
Camp participants
In stark contrast to the glitz and glamour of shoe company-sponsored events, the Rashid Bey Point Guard Camp embodies the essence of “GRIND TIME.” This camp is designed for serious players willing to put in the effort to improve their game. The one-day format ensures an intense and concentrated learning experience, emphasizing quality over quantity.
Big 5 Hall of Famer, Mike Jordan
The camp’s roster of instructors further reinforces its commitment to skill development. Rashid Bey, a two-time Big 5 Player of the Year, brings his own expertise and passion to the camp. Joining him are legendary figures in basketball: Big 5 Hall of Famers Mike Jordan, Lynn Greer II, and Marvin O’Connor, as well as University of Maryland Hall of Famer Terrell Stokes. This impressive staff brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and mentorship to the aspiring young athletes, providing them with insights that go beyond the superficial.
Audenreid Boys Coach Marvin Stinson and two camp participants
At the Rashid Bey Point Guard Camp, the focus is firmly on the instructional aspect. The participants receive unparalleled guidance and mentorship from instructors who have achieved greatness in the world of basketball. Unlike large, overcrowded events, the intimate setting of the camp allows for personalized attention and feedback, enabling players to address their specific weaknesses and areas for improvement. The camp covers every facet of guard play, including mentality, leadership, ball handling, passing, scoring, shooting, and playmaking. The emphasis on fundamental skills and a well-rounded approach to guard play ensures that participants leave the camp with a stronger foundation for their basketball journey.
Marvin Stinson and Big 5 Hall of Famer, Lynn Greer II
Audenried Boys Basketball Coach, Marvin Stinson’s endorsement of the camp underscores its value. Stinson acknowledges that Rashid Bey’s presence and the instructional events provided at Audenried HS gymnasium are a win-win for both the school and the broader Philadelphia basketball community. This genuine commitment to fostering growth and improvement in young players serves as a testament to the camp’s no-frill instructional approach.
Big 5 Hall of Famer, Marvin O’Connor and his daughter
In a basketball landscape often dominated by glitz and glamour, the Rashid Bey Point Guard Camp stands as a shining example of the value of hard work, dedication, and genuine skill development. This no-frill approach to basketball instruction provides young athletes with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the craft, learn from basketball legends, and cultivate a deeper understanding of the game. As the camp continues to attract dedicated and serious players, it remains a beacon of substance in a world increasingly defined by flashiness.
CAMDEN, NJ – July 6, 2023 – It was the summer of 2011, I was watching the Sonny Hill League High School playoffs. South Philly was strong as usual. John Davis (Neumann-Goretti), BJ Johnson (Lower Merion), Junior Fortunat (Roman Catholic) and Biggie Minnis (Atlantic Christian) were some of the headliners for a South Philly franchise that had been passed down from Claude Gross and Tee Shields to Arthur “Bunky” Russell. While we were in the Audenried Gym adjacent to I-76 and not on Broad Street at McGonigle Hall, the Hill League was still the THE Hill League.
During a break in the action, Biggie Minnis’ Mom, Chandra walked a skinny, tiny little kid over to me and said “we got one more Del… One last Myers coming through.” With that, I was introduced to Khaafiq Myers. With Chandra’s stamp, he was officially on the Black Cager radar screen. After all, she’s seen every single one of the great South Philly Ballers of the past 40 years. Shit… She grew up in the same house with some of toughest customers to emerge from Da P.
Over the past 12 years, I’ve watched that skinny little boy grow up and become a bonafide backcourt bully. Khaafiq Myers is now entering his final year of high school basketball. Despite his relatively small stature, standing at around 5’11” and weighing only 160 pounds, he has established a well-earned reputation for dominating opposing guards over the past two years. His aggressive style of play, exceptional lateral quickness, and defensive tenacity make him a force to be reckoned with on the court. He’s known for taking the ball in the open court in a very disrespectful manner. His ability to impose his will on opponents has often left them hesitant to even dribble the ball up the court.
Strengths:
Lateral Quickness and Defensive Tenacity: Khaafiq’s outstanding lateral quickness enables him to stay in front of his man effectively. His relentless defensive pressure often disrupts opponents’ offensive sets and forces turnovers, showcasing his defensive tenacity.
Floor General and Playmaking: As a point guard, he possesses excellent court vision and decision-making skills. He consistently demonstrates his ability to read defenses, penetrate the lane, and find open teammates with crisp passes. His playmaking abilities contribute significantly to his team’s offensive success.
Penetration and Pressure on Defense: Khaafiq’s skill in beating defenders off the dribble allows him to penetrate the lane effectively. This puts tremendous pressure on the defense, often leading to opportunities for scoring or creating open shots for his teammates.
Areas for Improvement: Inconsistent Jump Shooting: Although the South Philly point guard excels in various aspects of the game, his jump shooting remains inconsistent. Developing a more reliable jump shot will be crucial for his growth as a player. Improving his shooting percentages, particularly from the free-throw line and beyond the arc, will increase his overall offensive effectiveness.
College Prospects: If Khaafiq can address this weaknesses and improve his shooting percentages, he has the potential to become a legitimate mid-major plus or high-major college prospect. Meeting the benchmarks of shooting above 75 percent from the free-throw line and north of 40 percent from the three-point range would significantly enhance his value as a scorer and playmaker. College coaches would be drawn to his defensive prowess, leadership qualities, and ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and teammates.
Recommendations: Shooting Development: The player should dedicate significant time to developing his jump shot. Consistent practice and guidance from shooting coaches will help him refine his shooting technique and increase his shooting percentages. Improving his mechanics, shot selection, and shot release will lead to a more reliable and consistent shooting stroke.
Strength and Conditioning: Given his slight stature, adding strength and muscle mass will enhance his ability to withstand physical play and finish at the rim against bigger opponents. Focusing on strength and conditioning training, along with proper nutrition, will improve his overall athleticism and durability.
Basketball IQ and Decision Making: Continuously working on his basketball IQ and decision-making skills will allow him to make better choices on the court. Studying game film, learning from experienced coaches, and analyzing different offensive and defensive strategies will further enhance his understanding of the game.
Conclusion: Khaafiq, the last in a long line of tough and savvy Myers guards, is a formidable force on the basketball court. His combination of defensive intensity, playmaking abilities, and penetrative skills make him a valuable asset to any team. By addressing his inconsistent jump shooting and continuing to refine his overall game, he has the potential to excel at the collegiate level. College coaches will be enticed by his defensive prowess, leadership qualities, and ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. With focused development and continued improvement, Khaafiq Myers has the opportunity to make a significant impact early in his career at the next level
Thomas Sorber is a highly skilled and versatile center playing in the Philadelphia Catholic League (PCL) for Archbishop Ryan HS and Team Final on the Nike EYBL Circuit. Known for his exceptional passing ability, basketball IQ, and all-around offensive skills, Sorber has emerged as one of the most unique and impactful bigs in the nation. Off the court, he is a mature, thoughtful and humble young man with an unflappable disposition. His mother, Tennah Sorber, his HS coach, Joe Zeglinski, and Rob Brown, Director of the Team Final Basketball Club can rest assured knowing that he represents them in a highly dignified manner at all times.
Recently committed to Head Coach Ed Cooley and the Georgetown Hoyas, Sorber possesses a wide range of offensive skills that make him a threat from various positions on the court. Over the past two years, he has developed exceptional passing skills that stand out among high school bigs. Sorber displays incredible court vision and an innate ability to find open teammates. His passing repertoire includes crisp bounce passes, accurate outlet passes, and pinpoint long-range assists. Sorber’s underrated court vision allows him to manipulate defenses and make accurate reads, resulting in open looks for his teammates.
Georgetown commit, Thomas Sorber ’24
Furthermore, Sorber’s scoring ability is highly efficient and versatile. He possesses a soft shooting touch with increasing range that he has extended beyond the three-point line, making him a threat from mid-range and beyond. Sorber can knock down catch-and-shoot jumpers, fadeaway shots, and jump hooks with both hands with consistency. He also possesses a vast array of post moves, utilizing his size and footwork to create scoring opportunities close to the basket. Sorber is an excellent finisher around the rim and has a crafty arsenal of shots, including scoop layups and hard dunks.
Additionally, Sorber is an exceptional rebounder. Despite lacking elite athleticism, he utilizes his basketball IQ, positioning, and timing to secure rebounds on both ends of the court. Sorber is particularly adept at offensive rebounding, using his instincts to anticipate missed shots and gain extra possessions for his team.
Sorber’s Trenton background has had a significant impact on his development as a player. Growing up in Mercer County, Sorber played in highly competitive youth basketball programs known for its emphasis on skill development, teamwork, and basketball fundamentals. This system has helped shape Sorber’s unique skill set and well-rounded game.
The Trenton style of play places a heavy emphasis on passing and team-oriented basketball. Bryan Caver (Seton Hall), Mark Bass (St. Joseph’s), Charle Cooke (JMU/Dayton), Myles Powell (Seton Hall), Malachi Richardson (Syracuse), Davon Reed (Miami) and Jamir Watkins (VCU/Florida State) are just a few notable Trenton ballers. Sorber’s exceptional passing ability and court vision are direct products of this Trenton influence. Playing in Mercer County, he honed his passing skills through extensive practice and a focus on fundamental play. Sorber’s ability to read and react to defenses, as well as his understanding of spacing and timing, are hallmarks of his Trenton upbringing.
Delgreco Wilson, Black Cager Sports and Thomas Sorber after he committed to Georgetown.
Moreover, Trenton basketball has traditionally prioritized developing players with a broad skill set, capable of playing multiple positions. This versatility is evident in Sorber’s game, as he can initiate the offense as a point-center, play in the high post, or operate in the low post as a scoring threat. Sorber’s ability to initiate the offense, shoot from the perimeter, and make decisions on the fly are all influenced by the Trenton style of play.
Furthermore, Trenton players are often known for their basketball IQ, and Sorber is no exception. His understanding of the game, ability to make the right reads, and high basketball IQ are traits that have been fostered through his Mercer County basketball upbringing.
In summary, Thomas Sorber is a highly skilled and versatile center in the PCL. His exceptional passing ability, offensive versatility, and high basketball IQ make him a unique and impactful player. The Trenton influence on his development is evident in his emphasis on passing, skill development, versatility, and basketball IQ, which have all contributed to his rise as one of the premier players in the nation. In the Big East, he’ll be able to work seamlessly with his teammates when it comes to executing the offense. Whether he’s on the low post, high post or wing, he’ll catch and quickly make a play.
Georgetown fans need to buckle up and get the popcorn ready. Big Thomas is headed their way.
In the annals of Philadelphia high school basketball, there have been rare individuals who possessed an extraordinary combination of skills, work ethic, and sheer determination. Among these exceptional talents are electrifying shooting guards that command attention on and off the court. In 1991, my homie Bruiser Flint was in the early stages of his coaching career and working with John Calipari at UMass. They were in town and Flint was extolling the virtues of kid he described as a relentless threat not only capable of scoring from all three levels with NBA 3-point range and a refined mid-range game, but also embodying the epitome of versatility, strength, and explosiveness. They wanted him BAD!
I met Flint and Coach Cal at 2101 S Broad St that afternoon, we entered the South Philly HS gym and witnessed a performance that my memory has etched in stone since that day. Kareem “Rab” Townes’ bag was a different kind of deep. With an incredibly varied arsenal of offensive tools and a flair for entertainment, he set the benchmark. Townes established himself as the most prolific scorer and exciting high school player of his era.
No one had reminded me of Townes until the evening of February 6, 2023. At precisely 7:00 pm, the ref tossed the ball in the air and an important game between the visiting Archbishop Wood Vikings and the surprising St. Joseph’s Prep Hawks was underway. Over the course of the next hour and a half, Jalil Bethea evoked memories of Rab Townes, circa 1991-22. With about 20-30 SJ Prep football players, about 5-7 feet from the floor, relentlessly taunting and baiting him every trip down the floor… Bethea BUSSED DEY ASS! The magnitude of the game should not be understated. There was a lot on the line, the regular season championship remained undecided and playoff seedings had yet to be determined.
“Overrated… Overrated… Overrated!”
The rhythmic chant reverberated throughout the gym.
Jab step… swish!
Crossover, stepback… swish!
In and out, hesi… layup… good!
And one…
Bethea BUSSED DEY ASS!
A 40 piece spicy… fried HARD! Plus the win…
He has yet to take his foot off the gas pedal. Indeed, he gave Camden High a similar order last week at Philly Live.
When it comes to scoring, Bethea stands head and shoulders above his peers. His shooting range extends well beyond the 3-point line, mirroring the accuracy and consistency of NBA sharpshooters like Damian Lillard, Klay Thompson and FUCK IT… imma say it… Steph Curry. His remarkable range not only stretches opposing defenses but also instills fear in the hearts of defenders who must constantly guard against his deadly outside shot. His mid-range game is equally impressive, showcasing a refined touch and a keen understanding of angles and positioning. With an arsenal of scoring weapons at his disposal, he creates constant matchup nightmares for opponents.
Bethea is a BAD MUHAFUCKA.
It is obvious that he has invested countless hours in the gym with his mentor John Huggins, relentlessly working to enhance his physical attributes. Recognizing the importance of strength and explosiveness, he dedicated himself to a rigorous training regimen over the past 24 months. Through disciplined weightlifting, conditioning drills, and plyometric exercises, he transformed his body, developing the power and agility necessary to dominate on the court. He is routinely bangin’ on dudes and catching alley oops these days. This physical transformation has not only improved his ability to drive to the basket with authority but has also fortified his defensive skills, making him an all-around force to be reckoned with.
Photo: Gavin Bethell
With his expanded skill set and refined physique, Bethea has emerged as one of the most prolific scorers in the class of 2024. He is consensus top 20 prospect according to all of the national scouting services. His ability to create space and separate from defenders is unparalleled, thanks to his vast repertoire of offensive moves. Employing old-school jab steps, he baits defenders into committing, only to explode past them with a burst of speed or unleash a silky-smooth pull-up jumper. He seamlessly combines these moves with crossovers, in-and-out dribbles, and step-backs, leaving defenders in his wake and onlookers in awe.
It is not only his scoring prowess that captivates audiences but also his ability to entertain and excite with every possession. Each time he steps onto the court, fans anticipate something special. His deep bag of offensive tools, coupled with his creativity and flair, results in a dazzling display of basketball artistry. Whether it’s a mesmerizing crossover that sends his defender sprawling or a gravity-defying acrobatic finish at the rim, he leaves spectators on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting his next move. He has breathed new life into Philadelphia high school basketball, rekindling the excitement and passion that the game evokes.
It feels just like it did when Rab dropped 40 sumthin every time he enters the gym in 1991. In the annals of Philadelphia high school basketball, certain players have risen above the rest through their relentless drive and exceptional skills. Jalil Bethea, with his ability to score from all three levels, unrivaled range, and refined mid-range game, stands tall as one of the most formidable and prolific players of his era.
Bethea is a SUPAHIGHMAJAH prospect.
Through tireless dedication and a commitment to physical transformation, he has elevated his game to new heights. Not only does he amass points with ease, but he also captivates audiences with his entertaining and awe-inspiring style of play. As he continues to evolve and leave an indelible mark on the sport, he serves as a constant reminder that passion matters. He wants it… I believe he’s gonna get it!
The Black Cager 