#OTRHoopsReport – Norman Parker Showcase Recap – April 16, 2014

Malik Carter provided the interior punch for Stackhouse Elite 17U at the Norman Parker Showcase.
*Photo by Ty Freeman

Suwanee, Ga. – Spring basketball is in full effect as teams from across Georgia packed into Suwanee Sports Academy for the Norman Parker Showcase this past weekend. The April tournament gave us an early look at which teams are poised for big seasons on the circuit. Here is a look at two teams and their top performers who secured championships this past weekend.

By: @JLHemingwayPSB

 

Stackhouse Elite 17U

The performances turned in by Stackhouse Elite 17U left no doubt that they were were the most dominant team of the weekend. The collection of talent worked together as a well-oiled unit who anticipated each other’s moves well in advance. Their success is centered on Brandon Ingram of Kingston, N.C. who is ranked No. 15 nationally by ESPN Recruiting Nation. The 6-foot-8 forward provides versatility and a go-to scoring on the offensive end. Spearheading the ball handling responsibilities are high school teammates Ahmad Caver and Tobias Howard of North Gwinnett High School. Malik Carter of Suwanee, Ga. who stands at 6-7 provides the interior scoring punch and the defensive toughness needed to compete in this tournament. Carter went head to head with the likes of class 2015 prospects such as Noah Dickerson of Atlanta, Ga. and Doral Moore of Luella, Ga. and held his own. Stackhouse’s team beat Game Elite 17U, Georgia Stars 17U and ATL Xpress twice by playing solid team basketball.

ATL Xpress 16U

The 16U bracket had to go to overtime to decide a champion on Sunday afternoon. Although the Georgia Stars stretched their lead out to 16 points in the first half, ATL Xpress 16U stormed back behind the play of D’Marcus Simonds of Buford, Ga. His ability to create plays with the dribble energized his team in their second half comeback. However, it would be in the interior athleticism of class of 2016 post Chris Lewis of Milton, Ga. and class of 2017 forward DJ Russell of Jacksonville, Fla. that would ultimately be the difference. Lewis’ strength on the glass and Russell’s ability to finish in traffic led the Xpress to a victory. The 6-6 Russell gave his commitment to Miami University last summer and will certainly be a centerpiece to the ATL Xpress future success.

Jonathan Hemingway is a National Evaluator for the OTRHoopsReport. He is also the publisher of CoachHemi.com. He has been involved in the community since 1996 as a coach, camp director and evaluator. You can reach him via email at JonathanHemingway@PeachStateBasketball.com and follow him on twitter @JLHemingwayPSB