#OTRHoopsReport: Norcross Hilton Invitational – Jan. 30, 2014

Hillgrove (GA) has gotten off to a great start behind senior guard Kyle Castlin

By: @OntheRadarHoops

Hillgrove powered by Castlin

Last year Hillgrove was the Cinderella team in Georgia’s class AAAAAA by beating a talented Wheeler team and advancing to the state championship game.  Although they would eventually fall to Norcross in that game 60-48, that loss would prove to be motivation for the Hawks to return to those heights this year.  Senior guard Kyle Castlin has taken the leadership role this year for his Hillgrove team.  The Columbia bound scoring guard has been impressive all season with his ability to score the ball and make others around him better.  He did much of the same last weekend at the Hilton Invitational.  With this type of leadership, Hillgrove will be poised for another deep run into the tournament.

Justin Coleman has the heart of a lion

Coleman could be one of the most exciting guards to watch in the country. Coleman’s combination of basketball IQ and talent makes him one of the more dangerous point guards in the class of 2014.  Although undersized, he has the heart of a lion, thriving on competition and pressure situations. This 5-foot-9 lead guard can flat out get it going on the offensive end of the floor. He can shoot the ball consistently beyond the arc either off the catch or dribble.  His ability to make contested shots leaves defenders scratching their head.  Look for him and shooting guard Devin Mitchell to have an impact for coach Anthony Grant in Tuscaloosa next season.

Brown shines for Wheeler late

The class of 2015 is loaded with talent all over the country.  Wheeler High School features two of the top prospects in that class with 6-6 small forward Jaylen Brown and 6-9 power forward Daniel Giddens. Both are currently consensus top 50 prospects in the country as ranked by several of the national scouting services.  On this night, Brown showed why there is so much talk about his talent. He was able to get into the lane at will, finish around the basket and even displayed his ability to knock down the long range jumper.  His pair of three-pointers late in the second half would help secure a victory for Wheeler. This combination of Brown and Giddens instantly make Wheeler a favorite to make a deep run into the state tournament in early March.

Shun Williams is the owner of On the Radar Hoops, Inc. The On the Radar Hoops Report is picked up by Division I and II colleges and universities across the country. He serves as the director of the On the Radar Hoops Fall Showcase, On the Radar Hoops Spring Showcase, On the Radar Hoops Invitational, Elite 32 Session I, Elite 32 Session II and Power 24