6’5 2019 Josh Nickelberry (Northwood Temple/Louisville commit)

Josh Nickelberry exploded for a tourney high 44 points in the win over a very good and talented Liberty Heights. Simply put, Nickelberry was dialed in from deep connecting on five 3-pointers. His ability to create space and elevate over the opposing defender is elite. What makes Nickelberry so tough to defend is his versatility with the ball in his hands. Nickelberry can beat you off the dribble with a quick first step and finish at the rim with some crowd pleasing dunks, he has the ability to beat you off the dribble and use a one-to-two dribble pull up jumper, not to mention his ability to create and get his shot off against the toughest and best defenders. In the game against Liberty Height, Nickelberry put on the full offensive arsenal and there was little the opposing team 'could do! For the two games, Nickelberry averaged a “modest” 37.5 PPG and proved he is one of the country’s best and most creative shooters off the dribble or off the catch.

 

6’3 2019 Cole Anthony (Oak Hill Academy)

Big time players make big time plays. After battling foul trouble and finding Oak Hill headed for an upset loss, Cole Anthony put the team squarely on his shoulders. He created and made plays attacking the rim where he either finished or got fouled. In addition, he was able to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. Anthony finished with 18 points, 10 rebounds and dished out five assists, but more than anything else it was his poise and leadership that enabled Oak Hill to pull out the 92-85 overtime win. While Anthony has all the physical attributes to be highly successful at the college level and beyond, we were equally impressed with poise and maturity as a player.

 

6’3 2019 Caleb Burgess (Moravian Prep)

Talk about enhancing your resume and stock, 6’3 Caleb Burgess was simply sensational against Oak Hill and nearly pulled off one of the country’s upset. Burgess used his quickness, length and athleticism, not to mention an advanced basketball. More importantly, Burgess is without question the heart and soul of this team. He set forth the tone early with his poise, maturity and confidence. Not once did Burgess get rattled or intimidated. In our opinion, Burgess had that quiet confidence that he belongs on the big stage and his performance only solidified just that. Burgess finished with 21 points, four rebounds and four assists. Watch as his stock should get getting a tremendous booth.

 

6’6 2019 Juwan Gary (Liberty Heights)

The match up between Josh Nickelberry and Juwan Gary was simply a classic. Each player going head to head with something to prove. Once thing is for certain, when Juwan Gary is fully engaged he is at the top of his game. In the game against Northwood Temple, Gary started out a tad slow, but once those competitive juices got going, there was no stopping him. Gary is blessed with a great basketball frame. He has tremendous length, strength and a matching skill set, not to mention very formable competitive spirit. 'Gary was '”dialed in” and played a tough, gritty all-around game. He rebounded and made hustle plays and showcased why he is such a high elite level player. 'Gary finished with 28 points.

 

6’6 2019 DeAngelo Epps (Carmel Christian)

For the second consecutive night, Carmel Christian came out of the gate a little slow to the likes of Coach Joe Badgett. However, one player was ready to go from the opening tip. DeAngelo Epps enjoyed a solid all around game. He tallied an efficient 23 points going 8-12 from the floor, collected 10 rebounds and had four steals. Using his length, 'athleticism and explosiveness, Epss demonstrated time and time again that he is one of the better two-way wings in the state. He’s a menace on defense especially when they utilize the full court press. Epps has excellent quickness, but it is his anticipation that separates him from his peers. In addition, every time Epps steps onto the court, you know exactly what you are receiving. You’re going to get a young prospect that will give maximum effort and energy every possession.

Be sure to check out Coach Rick’s Stock Boosters from the Carmel Christian Tip Off Classic See below link

https://www.phenomhoopreport.com/2018/11/12/coach-ricks-stock-boosters-from-the-carmel-christian-tip-off-classic/