Chico State Athletics - Signings point to success on this highway

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Geru Mabrey (Archbishop Riordan) signs with Panola College

photo courtesy of www.sanfranpreps.com

NJCAA.org confirms that Geru Mabrey, PG from Archbishop Riordan has signed with Panola College.  Panola College is a junior college located in Carthage, Texas.  Geru averaged 10 pts and 3 assists his senior season.  Below is some footage of Geru Mabrey in action.

Jamir Andrews (Dublin High) signs with Sheridan College

photo courtesy of http://bangphotos.smugmug.com

As confirmed at the NJCAA website, Jamir Andrews has signed with Sheridan College.  Sheridan College is  a Junior College located in Wyoming.  Jamir is a strong guard who helped lead the Dublin High team to a 27-7 record and a deep run in the State playoffs.  Below are some highlights of Jamir Andrews during his high school campaign.

Dylan Alexander commits to San Jose State

Via Kevin McCarthy, Dylan Alexander, out of Weston Ranch High School, has reportedly committed to San Jose State.  It was last heard that he was offered preferred walk-on status at SJSU, more info on this commitment soon.

Tyson Aye (Imperial Valley College) accepts Head Coaching duties @ Allan Hancock

Allan Hancock College has officially announced it's new hire for Head Men's Basketball Coach.  Tyson Aye will leave Imperial Valley after eight seasons to head up north to Santa Maria to lead the Hancock program.  Tyson Aye is one of 3 family members that are head coaches at a California Community College.  Tyson's father, Denny Aye, heads the Chabot College program in Hayward.   Tyson's brother, Devin Aye, is the head coach at Lassen College in Susanville.

Click here is the official article from the Allan Hancock College athletics website.

Jarron Crump of Columbia College commits to Wiley College (NAIA DI)

Jarron Crump of Columbia College in Sonora, CA has signed with Wiley College, NAIA DI, in Texas.
Confirmed via facebook, "I just signed. Full ride feels good. God is good"
Jarron is considered a true point guard, and broke the All-Time Single Game Assist record at Columbia College during his two year tenure.  He was also named First Team All-Conference his freshman year in the CVC.  Jarron is on track to get his AA degree and will graduate this summer.  Below is some footage of Jarron in action.

Ali Faruqbey signs with Arizona Western

San Lorenzo standout Ali Faruqbey has committed to Arizona Western, a national junior college.
Faruqbey averaged 21.6 pts this year for San Lorenzo High and was selected All-East Bay Third Team.

WHAT A STORY: CHARLES JACKSON OF LASSEN COLLEGE

WHAT A STORY: CHARLES JACKSON OF LASSEN COLLEGE

Charles Jackson is one of those stories we all love to hear about.  He barely played high school basketball at Grant High School in Sacramento due to being a late developer.   In 2011, Charles Jackson was a mere 6’5” and 170 pounds soaking wet who couldn’t dunk the basketball.  Fast forward to present day, and Charles Jackson just completed his freshman year, earning MVP of the Golden Valley Conference at Lassen College standing at 6’9” 220 pounds and dunks at every opportunity.  He also earned All-State as a freshman and is on the radar of dozens of NCAA I programs for the upcoming 2013-14 year.

From Lassen College coach Devin Aye, “When I first saw Charles, he was all arms and legs.  He wasn’t coordinated enough to dunk, and he wasn’t ready to play college basketball. “  Charles sat out his first year of college at Chabot College in Hayward, CA where he developed a relationship with his assistant coach at the time at Chabot, Devin Aye.  In April of 2012 coach Devin Aye was offered the head coaching position at Lassen College in Susanville, CA.  “I didn’t want to steal Charles away from Chabot College and my father (Denny Aye is the head coach at Chabot College), but Charles called me one day and expressed interest in coming up here with me.  My father and I both agreed it was in Charles’ best interest for him to get away from the city and come up here where he can focus on school.” 

                                                                              

This is where the story begins….  Charles Jackson made the move up to the mountains to attend school at Lassen College.  “I remember the day Charles and Leroy Anderson (another story worth telling) arrived up here in Susanville.  Charles got out of his Dad’s SUV with his big smile, and he all of a sudden was 6’9” and put on about 30 pounds.”  Charles struggled to adjust to the college life while at Chabot College and matured a lot in that one year in Hayward.   In his first semester at Lassen College he passed all of his classes and is on his way to getting his AA degree in 2014.

Coach Devin Aye took over a program at Lassen College that had only won 1 game the previous season.  Aye admits he had high hopes for the season, but didn’t know what to expect from his post play.  “Our first tournament we went to San Jose for the tipoff tourney and I remember telling myself that if my post play can just play even with the other team we will  be ok this year.“  As you can imagine, the post play was better than Aye expected.  “Charles absolutely dominated!  He went up against D1 post players each of those 3 games and started the season averaging 17 points and 14 rebounds.  His energy, passion and being the ultimate teammate made him so enjoyable to be around on a daily basis.  He had 3 dunks each game and played with a chip on his shoulder.”   The season went on, and Charles eventually finished the year with quite a resume.  Lassen College won the Golden Valley Conference and finished with a 23-9 overall record.  Charles Jackson was selected as the MVP of the GVC, and was also ALL-STATE.  Jackson led the state in rebounding as a freshman with a total of 366 rebounds to his name.  And had a state line of 12.2 points, 11.5 rebounds, 61% FG’s and 2.6 blocks per game.

With such an unbelievable first year under his belt, things are looking up for Jackson next year.  “I absolutely LOVE this kid!  He has made me so proud both on and off the court.  Calls are coming in on him from PAC-12, WAC, Mountain West among others, and if Charles stays the course he will have an unreal future.  He is the centerpiece of our program here at Lassen College, and has become a hell of an athlete.  I have been spoiled to begin my coaching career with a young man like Charles.  It is a scary thought to think of coaching without him in the future.“  Who knows, maybe after the summer Charles Jackson could be 7’0” and gained another 30 pounds??  Congratulations to Charles Jackson on making the best of his opportunity at Lassen College!  Scouts and coaches will for sure be making those trips to Susanville to catch a glimpse of this prospect in 2013-14.

Roderick Bobbitt recommits to Indian Hills CC

According to the NJCAA website, Roderick Bobbit of Castro Valley has signed a letter-of-intent with Indian Hills CC in Iowa.

Bobbitt was the starting point guard for an Indian Hills team that finished 32-5 in 2011-12.  He apparently left IHCC to come back to California for his sophomore year.  He redshirted at CCSF last year and is rumored to have gotten a little out of shape with his year off from competitive basketball.  He is sure to get back in shape with his recommitment to one of the nations top juco programs.
Indian Hills has a few other NorCal talents on the roster with Gary Williams out of Vallejo and Stuart Wesonga of Novato.

UN-REALISTIC PLAYER PERCEPTIONS - Everyone should read this one

Interesting article by a former Prep School Coach at Westwind Prep.  Good Article for all parents, players and coaches. UN-REALISTIC PLAYER PERCEPTIONS

The Fine Line Between Confidence and Self Perception

As I try to place good players in college programs, I find that often the players themselves can be their own worst enemy. Usually, that is my only obstacle. This year, it has been the transfer list too. Instead of simply needing to convince my players that the offer in front of them is a good one, that they'd be crazy to pass up despite the fact it is not the level they want, I am now dealing with a smaller window for true freshmen due to unhappy transfers leaving their current situations. I've come to the conclusion that the issues that I face with my own players are the same as those transfers are facing. The problem is self perception and an inability to see reality. The problems that come of this are two fold. First, it has created a log jam at the low major level as transfers who realized they can't play where they were try to drop to a smaller school, and as a result, are taking spots from those that are waiting until the spring to sign because they believe they are Division 1 players, and just need a shot at a small school. The low major schools get many more choices.

The problem has led me to this conclusion: Unrealistic self perception is an epidemic, a disease, a major problem. It is human nature to think that we are better than we actually are. Its natural to think that those who give us their honest opinion or evaluation, if its not what we want to hear, are 'haters' or don't believe in us. But what about this? What if they're right?

In my position, I have come to work with players who are "D1 focused." They're at prep school because they're "D1 Focused" and they "Just need to be seen." My natural response is, 'I'm sorry, but that's probably not going to happen.' Which is also why I'm not the best prep school recruiter. I believe that more players are flocking to Juco's and Prep Schools for one main reason. They 'know' they're good, they just haven't found the right person to agree with them. Parents are often biased in this way too, and shell out thousands of dollars to prep schools because they can't believe no one has 'discovered' how good their son is. Eventually, they find their way to a prep school (that has a good recruiter, unlike me), who tells them that their son is the greatest player they've ever seen, and is going to 'blow up' this year and get a D1 scholarship!!!!........ if you pay $15-25,000 dollars for one year of 'prep school.' What ends up happening is the schools that didn't recruit the 'hidden gem' are ultimately right, and that player finds themselves in the same position they were in before they shelled out all that money for prep school. That prep school recruiter? He pocketed your money and played with the guys that already have D1 offers. You sat on the bench all year. And you end up again with maybe a D2 or NAIA scholarship that they stick their noses up at because 'its not D1.' Thus, you get left with nothing.

Sound familiar? It happens all the time. This is because many prep schools make money based on the fact that you believe you are better than you actually are. My advice? Look at what you have in front of you. If you are a senior or a post grad and you have a scholarship offer, then be as grateful as is humanly possible and sign that letter of intent before someone else at your position does. You are getting a college education, for FREE. Take that, because it means you've used basketball the right way and will graduate with no debt. Not a bad deal. Otherwise, if you pass it up and pay for a 25k/yr prep school then you are letting adults who know better use basketball to use you for your parents' money.

Now, on to the transfers. If you do wait on a few smaller school offers and a big school offer comes in very late, then know this, you were not their first choice. They are taking a gamble on you, and if you don't work out, its not a big deal. Instead of playing right away at a smaller school, you will be sitting all year, using up eligibility as it becomes obvious you can't play at that level. Maybe you just needed to try, and using a year was worth that gamble. That's OK. I understand that. But if you're frustrated by the situation and believe that your coach doesn't believe in you, then you're starting the same cycle all over again. Please learn and go to the level you can play at. I recently had a former player transfer from a D2 and ask me to get him some D1 looks. Seriously? If you're not a D2 starter, averaging 20 points/gm, and you don't have D1's knocking down your door the second your transfer paperwork is in, then you can't transfer up. Generally, the rule is unless you are the league POY, then you transfer down, to where your real level is. And if you play marginal minutes as a freshman, perhaps your real level is right where you are.

As you can see, an unrealistic self perception can be a dangerous thing. Take a look in the mirror and realize that it is OK that your level isn't where you always hoped it would be. A college scholarship is a terrible thing to waste... take it from someone who is still paying his college off. Thinking you are better than you actually are, and being too stubborn to admit your level could end up costing you and your parents a lot of time, money, and positive memories. It could leave you bitter, and upset. Please be realistic, embrace what you have, and do your best to be the best wherever you are.

Justin McBride of Lassen College commits to Grace University

Kevin McCarthy reports that Lassen College guard Justin McBride has committed to Grace University in Nebraska.
McBride, originally from Australia, played a big role in the turnaround in Susanville this year.  After only 1 victory in 2011-12, the Cougars finished 23-9, had a top 10 ranking in the state, and won the GVC Conference under new head Coach Devin Aye.

Full article by Kevin McCarthy here

Isaiah Ellis of Antelope signs with Chico State

Bill Paterson reports that Antelope High standout Isaiah Ellis has signed with NCAA DII Chico State

Full article click here

Dan Dona takes over Sonora Wildcat basketball program

With legendary coach Rick Francis's retirement from coaching this past year, Dan Dona has been named successor to the Sonora Wildcat Boys Varsity program.

Rick Rozak of the Union Democrat reports here

Tahjee Williams of McClymonds signs with Williston State College (North Dakota)

As reported on the National Junior College Athletic Association website Tahjee Williams of McClymonds High School in Oakland has signed his letter-of-intent to play at Williston State College in North Dakota.

Tahjee was named MVP of the Oakland Athletic League this season while averaging 16.3 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists & 2 steals per game.  Williams achieved this while shooting an impressive 61% from the field and 82% from the foul line.   Tahjee led Mack to an undefeated run through the OAL and a section title.

Leo Smith of Oakland Tech signs with Casper College (Wyoming)

The National Junior College Athletic Association website reports that Casper College has signed Oakland Tech point guard Leo Smith.   Smith earned First Team All Oakland Athletic League honors both his junior & senior years.  His senior year he averaged 18.5 points, 7.4 assists, 4.8 rebounds & 5 steals a game.   Smith was heavily recruited by a couple of local junior colleges in the Bay Area but decided to try the National Junior College route for a change of scenery.  We wish Leo the best of luck at Casper and beyond.

Michael Smith of El Camino commits to Cal Baptist University

Photo courtesy of sfexaminer.com

John Murphy reports that Michael Smith of El Camino High School is headed to NCAA D2 California Baptist University in Southern California.

Smith averaged 23.3 points and 10.1 rebounds per game this season for the Colts on the way to the Peninsula Athletic League-North title.  Smith was also named the Central Coast Section Senior of the Year.

Full article by John Murphy click here

'The Lebron before Lebron'

photo courtesy of gettyimages

Not NorCal related, but great article on one of California's All-Time High School basketball greats.  I remember watching Schea Cotton for the first time in Vegas, it was the same weekend I saw Kevin Garnett as a senior in high school.  The gym was too packed to watch Kevin Garnett so I wandered over to the gym next door to watch another game.  I was not aware of what I was about to witness. This 'grown man' was out there dominating in the first few minutes. Catching alley oops, driving the lane and dunking in traffic, and then hitting jumpers off the dribble from beyond the arc.  I thought to myself, dang, this must be the Senior level AAU championship or something.  Then during a timeout the announcer broadcast that these were freshman in high school!   Wow, I followed Schea Cotton as much as I could clipping articles and posting them on my folder for motivation. Saw him play several times in high school championship games, etc.
Enough with my introduction, here is the link to the article on 'The Lebron before Lebron'.


http://lockerroomlivetv.com/schea-cotton-the-lebron-before-lebron/

Cal-Hi Sports Boys Basketball All-State under-classmen

Cal-Hi Sports has announced the Boys Basketball All-State Teams from the class of 2014, 2015 & 2016

* Congratulations to Ivan Rabb for getting Player of the Year for the class of 2015 *

ALL-STATE JUNIORS (30)

First Team
G — Kyron Cartwright (Compton) 5-11
F — Tavrion Dawson (Serra, Gardena) 6-7
F — Daniel Hamilton (St. John Bosco, Bellflower) 6-7
F — Nick Hamilton (Westchester, Los Angeles) 6-3
G — Tra Holder (Brentwood, Los Angeles) 6-0
G — Rashad Jackson (Garces, Bakersfield) 6-4
F — Stanley Johnson (Mater Dei, Santa Ana) 6-7
F — Trey Kell (St. Augustine, San Diego) 6-4
G — Jordan McLaughlin (Etiwanda) 6-2
G — Murshid Randle (Central, Fresno) 6-2
G — Devin Watson (Army-Navy, Carlsbad) 6-0
C — Thomas Welsh (Loyola, Los Angeles) 7-0
F — Jack Williams (Chaminade, West Hills) 6-8
F — Namon Wright (Pacific Hills, Los Angeles) 6-5
F — Calvin Young (Bullard, Fresno) 6-4

Second Team
F — Bryan Alberts (Village Christian, Sun Valley) 6-5
G — Robert Berwick (Atascadero) 6-4
G — Justin Bibbins (Bishop Montgomery, Torrance) 5-8
F — Jalen Canty (Patrick-St. Vincent, Vallejo) 6-6
G — Isaac Clark (Independence, Bakersfield) 6-0
G — Ian Fox (Redondo Union, Redondo Beach) 6-1
F — Braxton Huggins (Mira Monte, Bakersfield) 6-3
G — Damonte Holiday (Hoover, San Diego) 5-11
G — Parker Jackson-Cartwright (Loyola, Los Angeles) 5-10
G — Jeremy Lieberman (Calabasas) 6-1
F — Julian Richardson (El Camino Real, Woodland Hills) 6-3
G — Elliott Smith (Freedom, Oakley) 6-5
F — Mario Soto (Mater Dei, Santa Ana) 6-5
G — Gabe Vincent (St. Mary’s, Stockton) 6-2
F — Temidayo Yussef (St. Joseph Notre Dame, Alameda) 6-7

Junior Player of the Year: Stanley Johnson

ALL-STATE SOPHOMORES (20)

G — Tyrell Alcorn (El Cerrito) 6-0
F — Jordan Alexander (Hoover, San Diego) 6-4
G — Paris Austin (Bishop O’Dowd, Oakland) 5-10
F — David Awolowo (Gunderson, San Jose) 6-3
G — Sedrick Barefield (Centennial, Corona) 6-0
F — Bennie Boatwright (Alemany, Mission Hills) 6-7
F — Chance Comanche (View Park Prep, Los Angeles) 6-9
G — Tyler Dorsey (St. John Bosco, Bellflower) 6-4
G — Myles Franklin (Hart, Newhall) 5-11 G
G — Jeremy Hemsley (Damien, La Verne) 6-2
G — Aaron Holiday (Campbell Hall, North Hollywood) 6-1
G — Tristan Hunter (Perris) 6-0
C — Broderick Jones (View Park Prep, Los Angeles) 6-9
C — Chimezie Metu (Lawndale) 6-9
C — Ivan Rabb (Bishop O’Dowd, Oakland) 6-9
F — Roy Hemsley (Windward, Los Angeles) 6-6
G — Kendall Small (Ocean View, Huntington Beach) 5-10
G — Stephen Thompson Jr. (Bishop Montgomery, Torrance) 6-1
C — Anthony Townes (Modesto Christian) 6-6
F — Cameron Walker (Righetti, Santa Maria) 6-6

Sophomore Player of the Year: Ivan Rabb

ALL-STATE FRESHMEN (10)

F — Devin Asiasi (De La Salle, Concord) 6-4
G — Lonzo Ball (Chino Hills) 6-2
G — Max Heidegger (Crespi, Encino) 5-8
F — Vance Jackson (La Salle, Pasadena) 6-6
F — T.J. Leaf (Foothills Christian, El Cajon) 6-7
G — Devearl Ramsey (Sierra Canyon) 5-10
G — Colin Slater (Clovis North, Fresno) 5-11
C — Trevor Stanback (Chaminade, West Hills) 6-10
G — Derryck Thornton Jr. (Sierra Canyon, Chatsworth) 6-1
F — Devin Young (Sacramento) 6-6

Freshman Player of the Year: Trevor Stanback

Notes: We recognize that many top freshmen and sophomores have yet to fully develop their skills and that many top young players are in strong programs and may be currently behind older players….

These players all played at the varsity level and these selections were based more on what they did during the high school season and very little on AAU or summer competition….